Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa
ShowingFilter 181-200 of 2014 listings.
Ballard District
Seattle’s hip, thriving Seattle waterfront neighborhood of Ballard is home to landmarks such as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (commonly known as the Ballard Locks), Golden Gardens Park, the Nordic Heritage Museum, and the Shilsole Bay Marina. It also boasts some of Seattle’s best restaurants, pubs, shops, spas, and parks.
The Basics
Since 1853, this historic Scandinavian neighborhood, also known as Snoose Junction, has been cultivating its fashionable image—and now you can walk Ballard’s busy tree-lined streets and see how all the hard work has paid off. Most Seattle highlights tours include a stop at the impressive Ballard Locks and a stroll through this bustling neighborhood. Watch the Ballard Locks open and allow ships through, explore the Nordic Heritage Museum, shop the ever-popular Market Street, or enjoy the eclectic restaurants and pubs on Ballard Avenue. Golden Gardens’ sandy beach, along the Puget Sound, is a great place for kids to run around and wade. Look out for unique curio shops and try to catch the Ballard Farmers Market, a Seattle staple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ballard has become known as a foodie hot spot, so a restaurant stop is a must—with reservations, of course.
- If cycling—a popular pastime in Seattle—you can pass over the ship canal between Ballard and Magnolia.
How to Get There
To get to Ballard from downtown Seattle, drive north on 1st Avenue, veer left at the foot of Queen Anne Hill, then continue northward until you cross the Ballard Bridge. Turn left onto NW Market Street.
When to Get There
Seattle’s rain-soaked reputation is mostly valid, but not from June through September, which are the best months to visit. In Ballard, ships pass through the locks year-round, regardless of weather. Be prepared to wait in line for brunch when the farmers market, open 10am to 3pm on Sundays, draws crowds to the neighborhood.
The Ballard Locks
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known simply as the Ballard Locks, are one of the neighborhood’s top draws. The locks allow boats of all sizes to pass between Lake Union and the Puget Sound. Between each step of the locks, the water level drops as much as 26 feet (eight meters) and exchanges salt water with fresh water. The passage is also important to the area’s fish populations, including salmon and steelhead trout; there is a fish ladder and an observation window where visitors can watch the fish passing through.
Address: USA
From $ 70
Georgetown University
Lush green streets and idyllic Victorian houses are just part of what lends the Georgetown neighborhood of D.C. its classic east coast charm. And while there’s plenty to see in this trendy part of town, it’s the well-known Georgetown University that’s the real star of the show.
Founded in 1789, Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution in America. This elite college of higher learning is home to the famous Hoyas, as well as some of the best examples of Romanesque revival style architecture on the East Coast. Approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 10,000 post-graduate students attend Georgetown University, and notable alumni include former president Bill Clinton. The school has four distinct university campuses, which include the Law Center, the undergraduate campus, the Medical Center, and the School of Continuing Studies, located in Chinatown.
Founded in 1789, Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution in America. This elite college of higher learning is home to the famous Hoyas, as well as some of the best examples of Romanesque revival style architecture on the East Coast. Approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 10,000 post-graduate students attend Georgetown University, and notable alumni include former president Bill Clinton. The school has four distinct university campuses, which include the Law Center, the undergraduate campus, the Medical Center, and the School of Continuing Studies, located in Chinatown.
Practical Info
Georgetown University is located at 3700 O Street Northwest. The areas surrounding the school are lined with trendy bars, world-class restaurants and quiet coffee shops, making it the perfect place to experience Washington, D.C.
Address: 3700 O Street Northwest, Washington DC, Washington 20057, USA
From $ 49
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion
As the main hall of the Los Angeles Music Center, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is home to some of the best musical performances in the LA area. It was built utilizing a “total design” aesthetic, meaning that every detail from the carpeting to the engineering was coordinated for uniformity of design. Historically its halls and stage have been home to everything from the LA Philharmonic to the Academy Awards, though these days it’s the site of the LA Opera and Glorya Kaufman dance performances (which often brings in traveling dance troupes.)
Excellent acoustics create resonating sounds across its four-tiers of seating, while crystal chandeliers and wide stairways add to the ambiance of elegance. The Los Angeles Music Center that it is part of it is one of the three largest centers for performing arts in the United States, and some of classical music’s greatest performers have graced its stage.
Practical Info
The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is located on Grand Ave in Los Angeles. As with most of LA, driving is the best way to get there and both self-parking and valet is available. Tours of the Los Angeles Music Center of which the pavilion is part of take place Tuesday to Saturday at both 10:30 am and 12:30 pm.
Address: 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, California, USA 90012, USA
Hours: Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm
From $ 70
Baltimore Little Italy
This cozy neighborhood is located in downtown Baltimore in between the Inner Harbor and historic Fells Point. Millions of people visit Little Italy every year, and when they come, they eat well. The neighborhood is loaded with family-owned restaurants, serving dishes, they say, just like mamma used to make.
Little Italy is also known for its festivals and neighborhood events. From bocce ball games and tournaments to outdoor movies and pasta dinners, the neighborhood calendar is always busy. Don’t want to worry about a schedule? Its narrow streets are nice for strolling without a plan.
Practical Info
Baltimore’s Little Italy is a short walk from the Inner Harbor. Visitors can also come by water taxi, subway or car. Along with free street parking (three-hour limit), there are many parking lots for those who plan to stay longer and many restaurants offer free parking.
Address: Baltimore, Maryland, USA
From $ 15
Bamboo Forest
Even in the middle of a sunny day, hikers here will often find they are strolling along in near darkness. The towering bamboo is so thick in places that it nearly blocks out the sun, and it creaks and whistles high in the branches as it blows in the East Maui wind. The dense jungle of bamboo aside, what makes this hike such a Maui favorite is the multiple waterfalls and swimming holes. Reaching the waterfalls can be treacherous, however, as the trail leading down from the highway to the falls is steep, slippery, and dirt. Even the entrance requires skirting a fence that has been cleared for easier entry, and it’s a “proceed at your own risk” type of trail that isn’t officially marked.
For those who choose to visit, however, four different waterfalls splash their way through a forest is laden with bamboo and guava. Each waterfall has a small swimming hole where you can escape the midday heat, and the bottom two falls are the most accessible for hikers who are simply visiting on their own. The uppermost falls are more difficult to reach as they require scaling ladders and ropes, and flash floods can sometimes occur in the narrow upper canyon. It’s best to only attempt these falls if visiting with a local or guide. Even only visiting the two bottom pools, however, is an enchanting tropical outing, and is a great way to get out and stretch your legs on the winding road out to Hana.
Practical Info
The Bamboo Forest is at mile marker 6.5, just past the village of Wailua. Parking is located along the mauka (mountain side) of the road, and overflow parking can be found around the bend by the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees. Accidents can—and do—happen when hiking along this trail, so be sure to exercise extra caution when setting out on the hike.
Address: Pipiwai Trail, Wailua, Hawaii, USA
From $ 173
Gatorland
With goofy, gaping alligator jaws welcoming guests at the entrance, Gatorland is a reptilian wonderland that has been showcasing Florida's wildlife since 1949. The 110-acre (45-hectare) park is home to thousands of alligators and crocodiles, snakes, toads, turtles, and swamp birds, some of which are rescued former pets. Guests will find winding boardwalks hovering over man-made bayous, which provide safe views of the resident reptiles, plus an open-air aviary and a petting zoo of domesticated farm animals.
The Basics
While many travelers book basic admission tickets to Orlando’s reptilian wonderland, it’s also possible to take a combo tour that includes time at the park and an airboat ride through the Central Florida Everglades. Gatorland guests also have numerous options for enhancing their visit beyond general admission. The Screamin’ Gator Zipline takes guests 1,200 feet (366 meters) above the park and its Alligator Breeding Marsh, home to 130 resident alligators. To experience the Florida swamp by night, opt for an after-dark tour where you can gaze into glowing gator eyes or even feed the reptiles. Those with a deeper interest in these giant reptiles can go behind the scenes to learn about their behaviors with the add-on Trainer for a Day package. Gatorland also offers experiences that allow visitors to touch and wrestle gators for an additional fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gatorland is a must-see for families with kids and animal lovers.
- The fee-based Gatorland Express Train shuttles visitors around the park for easy access.
- Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent inside the park.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Advance reservations are required for the Trainer for a Day program.
How to Get There
Gatorland is located on Highway 441 in South Orlando, about 20 minutes from the Orlando International Airport by road. Parking is free.
When to Get There
The park is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Since much of the site is outdoors and uncovered (and shows are canceled in the event of heavy rain), it’s a good idea to plan your visit for a day with a sunny forecast. Unlike other Orlando theme parks, crowds aren’t as much of a problem at Gatorland, but if you choose to visit during summer, expect high temperatures.
Entertainment at Gatorland
Like any good theme park, Gatorland puts on a few live shows featuring some of their famous residents. During the Gator Jumparoo, guests can observe alligators perform an impressive behavior: jumping four to five feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) out of the water to snatch food. The Gator Wrestlin’ Show demonstrates how handlers are able to safely wrangle an 8-foot-long (2.5-meter-long) alligator, limbs intact.
Address: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida 32837, USA
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico includes ancient pueblo buildings as well as vast areas of wilderness and lots of hiking trails. The whole area covers 50 square miles, most of which remain the natural landscape, including the Rio Grande and the Jemez Mountains. The main attractions at Bandelier, however, are the ruins of the ancient people who once lived there.
There are several ancient homes, as well as rock paintings and petroglyphs, both near the modern ground level of the canyon and some further up the rock wall. The ruins and markings date from the 12th through 17th century, though there is evidence that people inhabited the area more than 10,000 years ago.
Practical Info
Bandelier National Monument is open daily year-round from dawn to dusk. The visitor center hours vary by season, and the park hours may vary during inclement weather. There is a $12 vehicle entry fee, which includes everyone riding in the vehicle, or $6 per person for anyone walking or cycling into the monument. There are fees to camp at the two campgrounds inside the monument – reservations are required for one, and not possible for the other.
Address: 15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA 87544, USA
Admission: Individual: $6; Vehicle: $12
From $ 80
Baker Beach
Tucked beneath the bluffs of the Presidio on the northwest edge of San Francisco, Baker Beach is a local favorite where a picnic on the sand comes with excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Baker Beach offers a respite from the busy city and a chance to spot dolphins just offshore.
The Basics
Baker Beach is best seen on a coastal walking tour, where you can admire views of the Marin Headlands and the Pacific as it meets San Francisco Bay. The California Coastal Trail and Batteries to Bluffs Trail run along this part of the city’s shoreline. Visitors can also head to the beach independently; take a blanket and a picnic, and enjoy a couple of hours relaxing on the beach.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Baker Beach is ideal for nature lovers and those who want to experience San Francisco the way locals do.
- Picnic tables, barbecue grills, and restrooms are available.
- With a strong current, the water here is considered too rough for swimming.
- Bring layers, no matter what the season or current weather; the wind and fog can appear quickly in this part of the city.
- The very northern end of the beach is frequented by clothing-optional sunbathers.
How to Get There
Via public transportation, hop on the PresidiGo shuttle or the 29 Muni bus. There is a parking lot if you have your own car.
When to Get There
Photography buffs will want to go at sunset for shots of the ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin Headlands in the evening light. Traditional beach weather doesn’t often come to San Francisco, but September and October are usually the warmest, sunniest months. Sunny weekend days are typically very crowded.
Battery Chamberlain
History and war buffs will want to stop by Battery Chamberlain, located just above the beach, where once a month the National Park Service opens the site to let visitors see the 50-ton “disappearing gun”—a relic of the Presidio’s military past.
Address: San Francisco, California, USA, USA
From $ 34
Bally's
Once known as the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, Bally’s Las Vegas is one of the strip’s most famous hotels. With nearly 3,000 guestrooms that are 450 square feet (or larger!)—most of which were recently renovated—Bally’s is quintessential Las Vegas glitz, glam and luxury. A neon-wrapped moving sidewalk, more than 100 shops, a handful of diverse restaurants and even the long-running show Jubilee are among the features that make this Las Vegas strip hotel a favorite among travelers. Theater lovers can check out other in-hotel performances like “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding”, a country superstars musical tribute and even a new adults-only show called “50 Shades! The Parody”. Fitness buffs will love the contemporary gym facilities, championship tennis courts and pool—perfect for relaxing after a night at the casino.
Practical Info
Bally’s is located at 3645 South Las Vegas Boulevard.
Address: 3645 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
From $ 13
Georgetown
Few places in the US see past and present commingling so harmoniously as in the historic Georgetown neighborhood in Washington DC. Filled with gorgeous townhomes, glitzy shops, trendy restaurants, picturesque waterfronts, and the renowned Georgetown University, the history and charms of Georgetown are undeniable.
The Basics
The historic district of Georgetown technically predates the nation’s capital: It was founded in 1751, some 50 years before the District of Columbia. The heart of the neighborhood is the intersection of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue NW, now packed with glamorous storefronts and chef-driven restaurants. All around are multimillion-dollar townhomes, marked by 18th- and 19th-century architecture and tales of famous owners (such as the Kennedys). Then there’s the popular Georgetown Waterfront, home to buzzing outdoor cafés and a scenic Potomac River promenade.
Georgetown’s historic roots and bespoke charms offer the perfect afternoon excursion for DC visitors. For an in-depth experience of the area and its storied roots, book a guided walking tour; typically these include such sites as the C&O Canal, a bucolic waterway that was once an active center of commerce and transportation, and Georgetown University, which counts Bill Clinton and Bradley Cooper among its illustrious alumni. If you’re limited on time, many private and small-group DC tours stop in the neighborhood as well, as do hop-on hop-off buses.
Things to Know Before You Go
- History buffs and families alike will appreciate a leisurely afternoon in Georgetown.
- Many of the sidewalks are made of (sometimes uneven) cobblestones; come prepared with comfy walking shoes.
- Many cafés, bakeries, and other comfy local establishments offer free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
Georgetown is accessible by car (there are more than 20 parking garages) and bikeshare service (Capital Bikeshare has eight stations). Public transportation is also available via the DC Metrobus and the DC Circulator bus, which connects tourist destinations within the city. The nearest metro stations are Foggy Bottom-GWU, a 15-minute walk away, and Rosslyn, located just across the Key Bridge from Georgetown; both are on the blue and orange lines.
When to Get There
Temperatures and humidity typically soar during summer in Washington DC, while winter can be cold and damp. Late spring and early fall offer the most pleasant weather. This is also when Georgetown University co-eds are back in school, allowing visitors to experience the neighborhood’s collegiate charms.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
A tour of Georgetown isn’t complete without stopping for a delicious treat from Georgetown Cupcake. The original outpost of the nationwide dessert shop, made famous on TLC network’s DC Cupcakes, sells its signature red velvet cupcake—with a vanilla cream cheese frosting topped with a red fondant heart)—and countless other finger-licking flavors at its store on the corner of M and 33rd streets.
Address: Washington D.C., USA
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Georgia Aquarium
With 10 million gallons of water and more than 500 species of aquatic animals, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the United States. Thankfully, bite-sized exhibits help organize your trip and make it possible to see the best of the aquarium in one day.
The Basics
General-admission tickets include access to seven galleries, including a dolphin show, a sea otter habitat, and a tank with manta rays and whale sharks. As an upgrade, specialty experiences such as a behind-the-scenes tour and Sleepover Under the Sea are big hits with kids. Because the Georgia Aquarium is one of the most popular activities in Atlanta, it’s best to arrive early and book your ticket in advance. You can also save money by visiting as part of a CityPASS, which includes general admission to the aquarium and other top area attractions such as the World of Coca-Cola, CNN Center, or Zoo Atlanta.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s a restaurant and restrooms on-site.
- Plan to spend roughly three to four hours visiting the aquarium.
- Active military personnel receive a discount with ID, plus free admission days.
- The aquarium is wheelchair accessible and provides experiences for guests with visual and hearing impairments.
How to Get There
The Georgia Aquarium is located by Centennial Olympic Park. You can get there by taking a MARTA bus, or by walking 10 to 15 minutes from any MARTA train line. If you’re driving, there are parking decks available for a fee.
When to Get There
The Georgia Aquarium is open 365 day a year. Hours change regularly with seasons and special events, so check the website for the most up-to-date information. No matter when you go, be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Fauna to Fawn Over
Key animals to look out for at the aquarium include beluga whales, sea lions, African penguins, and a coral reef with tropical fish. Animal lovers should sign up for a guided Behind the Seas tour, which provides more insight into the marine life than you might get on your own.
Address: 225 Baker Street Downtown, Atlanta 30313, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 44
Bal Harbour
Separated from the mainland of Florida by only a small strip of water, Bal Harbour is a small, upscale community on the island of Miami Beach. The affluent area is most known for its luxury shops, high rise apartment buildings, and St. Regis hotel. The beautiful Bal Harbour Shops include high-end retailers and designers such as Prada, Gucci, Versace, Hermes, Chanel, and Tiffany. And the open-air shopping center features many palm fronds and a tropical feel that is fun to explore.
The Bal Harbour Beach is a wide expanse of fine white sand in the shadows of the nearby buildings. It is difficult to access without direct access to the surrounding structures, so the tropical beach is (for the most part) private. Bal Harbour has fine dining and cocktail options as well — though the island is mostly quiet and peaceful in the evenings.
Practical Info
Bal Harbour is located on the northern tip of the barrier island known as Miami Beach, between Surfside and Haulover beaches. The island is about 10 miles from north to south. To get there from downtown Miami, take I-195 E. It’s about a 40 minute drive, and taxis run about $30 from South Beach.
Address: Bal Harbour, Florida 33154, USA
From $ 179
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Baltimore’s revitalized Inner Harbor features a scenic waterfront promenade and pedestrian district replete with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Heralded by urban developers as a model for post-industrial waterfront land use, the area sits along the Patapsco River at the mouth of Jones Falls.
The Basics
Highlights include the Harborplace shopping center, waterfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and other specialties, and Baltimore’s pyramid-shaped National Aquarium—home to jellyfish, dolphins, and sharks. You can also learn about the city’s seafaring history at the Maritime Museum.
Whether you want to stroll along the promenade or cruise above the city in a helicopter, there are multiple options for exploring Baltimore’s Inner Harbor area. Dinner cruises and yacht charters are a good way to explore Chesapeake Bay, while ghost tours and walking tours typically depart from the Inner Harbor area and include visits to sites such as Key Bridge, Fort McHenry, and the Federal Hill neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Inner Harbor is great for kids, as many of its attractions are within easy walking distance.
- Most of the Inner Harbor is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps and elevators throughout. Limited parking at the Visitor Center is specifically designed for visitors with disabilities.
- Dogs are allowed along the waterfront promenade.
- Many Inner Harbor restaurants serve up Baltimore's specialty: crab cakes and other crab-based dishes.
How to Get There
The Inner Harbor is bounded by President, Lombard, Greene, and Camden streets. Water taxis are a good way to get around; from the Inner Harbor, you can cross the Bay to Little Italy, Fells Point, and Canton. Day passes are also available for the Metro Subway and bus systems.
When to Get There
The Inner Harbor typically hosts events during spring, summer, and fall. Although summer can be hot and humid, the breeze off Chesapeake Bay cools things off a bit. Baltimore has milder winters than most Northeast cities, so this can still be a pleasant time to explore.
Haunted Baltimore
Baltimore's (and Maryland's) history is long and complicated. Learn all about it—and mingle with paranormal-activity buffs from all over the world—on a ghost tour or wicked-history tour, which includes stops at the city’s most haunted spots.
Address: Pratt Street, Baltimore MD 21202, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 21
George Washington Bridge
Transporting more than 100 million vehicles annually, the George Washington Bridge over the Hudson River connects northeastern New Jersey to Manhattan. With its steel beams and cables, the double-decker suspension bridge is one of the most recognizable in the world. Informally known as “GW” or “The George,” the bridge also allows for pedestrians and bikers to cross, allowing for sweeping views of the New York City skyline. Its lower level (affectionately referred to as “The Martha,” after Washington’s wife) was added after initial construction to allow for greater capacity.
Considered a marvel of modern engineering, the bridge has been recognized as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. At the time it was built it was twice as long as any existing suspension bridge, and remains a favorite New York City landmark. It is the busiest motor vehicle bridge in the world, and os home to the world’s largest free-flying American flag.
Practical Info
The George Washington Bridge crosses the Hudson River, joining the Palisades Park of Fort Lee, NJ to Manhattan’s Washington Heights neighborhood. The $15 per car toll is only collected on the way to New York (not to New Jersey.)
Address: New York City, New York, USA, USA
Hours: Open 24/7
Admission: Tolls vary depending on vehicle and payment type
From $ 49
Georgia State Capitol
The focal point of the Atlanta skyline is the stately gold dome of the Georgia State Capitol. Lady Freedom, a statue holding a sword and a lantern, stands atop the Capitol building; she has captured the attention of everyone who passes by since 1889. The design of the building draws from the neoclassical style, similar to that of the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. Inside the building, Victorian and Florentine Renaissance influence is evident in the artistic motifs, while the site has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
The Capitol is the main operating building for Georgia’s state government. It houses the offices of the state governor, lieutenant governor and secretary of state, and is also the site where the General Assembly gathers. The fourth floor holds an educational museum and a visitors' center. The museum’s collections focus on the history of Georgia and include Native American artifacts and indigenous animals, while portraits of Georgia’s governors line the walls of the building. War banners and flags are displayed on every floor, and one of the most important sights in the Georgia State Capitol is the Hall of Fame, full of memorials to the Georgia signers of the Declaration of Independence and other famous Georgia citizens.
Practical Info
The Georgia State Capitol is located in downtown Atlanta on Capitol Square. The Capitol and the Georgia Capitol Museum are open and free to the public. Both are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Tours are available and free but should be scheduled in advance.
Address: 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30334, USA
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
From $ 55
Bainbridge Island
A half-hour’s ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a relaxing side trip in Puget Sound. The quaint downtown area stretches just a few blocks from the ferry terminal down Winslow Avenue, which is lined with art and antique shops, clothing boutiques, and cafés and restaurants, many of which focus on using regionally-sourced ingredients in their farm-to-table cuisine.
Aside from the small commercial district, the majority of the island is residential or rural, dotted with small bed and breakfasts and even a few vineyards. The main draw of visiting, other than simply rest and relaxation, is the outdoor activities. Hiking and biking are popular, with miles of trails traversing the rolling hills. Other activities popular with locals and visitors include kayaking, whale-watching, and viewing other wildlife like deer and bald eagles. Kayak and bike rentals are both available year round as temperatures are fairly mild any time of year; summers are warm and winters are chilly, but rarely colder than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ferries from downtown Seattle run multiple times a day, all year round, and cost just a few dollars (more if you plan to bring a car), making Bainbridge Island an ideal day or weekend side trip from Seattle.
Address: USA
From $ 149
General Grant National Memorial
Paying tribute to Civil War hero and former president General Ulysses S. Grant and his wife Julia, the General Grant Memorial is the largest tomb in North America. General Grant is commended for his role in ending the bloodiest war in American history, with his words “let us have peace” immortalized in the structure.
The large granite and marble mausoleum is surrounded by seventeen intricate, Gaudi-inspired benches designed by Chilean artist Pedro Silva. The structure itself takes after classical inspiration with Doric columns and an Ionic colonnade. It bears resemblance to some of the ancient monuments of Rome. The interior, however, was inspired by the Tomb of Napoleon at Les Invalides in Paris.
Its main room is decorated with murals and mosaics depicting General Lee’s surrender and the end of the Civil War. In the gallery, you’ll find busts of General Grant’s most important lieutenants. In the spring and summer, the memorial is surrounded by beautiful plants and blossoming flowers. It stands as both a tribute to history and a living monument of today.
Practical Info
The General Grant Memorial is located at Riverside Drive at 122nd Street in Morningside Heights, near the north end of Riverside Park. To get there using the Subway, take the 1 to 125th Street. It is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, with free talks given throughout the day. Admission is free.
Address: 495 Riverside Drive at 122nd Street, New York, NY, USA
Hours: Wed-Sun from 10am-5pm
From $ 29
Balboa Park
Home to world-class museums, manicured gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park tops the list of San Diego city sights. Its 1,200 lush acres (486 hectares) comprise the largest urban park in the United States. Apart from its many attractions, Balboa Park also features lengthy walking and hiking trails, distinctive landscaping, Golden Age Spanish buildings, and one of the world’s largest outdoor pipe organs.
The Basics
A visit to the park is included on most San Diego city sightseeing tours, and Segway tours are another popular way to explore Balboa. The central part of the park houses the renowned San Diego Zoo and its more than 3,000 animals. At the Museum of Man, part of the California Quadrangle and its distinctive arch, you can see Native American artifacts and other cultural archaeology exhibits. The San Diego Museum of Art displays a number of European works, and nearby sites include the Timken Museum of Art, the Botanical Building, the Natural History Museum, Alcazar Gardens, the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages, and the Spanish Village Art Center. The east end of the park holds the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Explore the area on foot or use the free Balboa Park Tram, which loops continuously around the main areas of the park daily from 9am to 6 or 8pm.
- Balboa Park is kid-friendly, with a miniature train, playgrounds, and play areas in most museums.
- With so many options, it’s best to prioritize your desired stops in the park. You can pick up a park map at the Balboa Park Visitors Center in the House of Hospitality.
- Free concerts on the Spreckels Organ are held every Sunday at 2pm, and on Monday evenings at 7:30pm from late June through August.
- Eating options abound throughout the park. Be sure to check out the Prado for diverse cuisine and museum-inspired decor.
How to Get There
Set in downtown San Diego, Balboa Park is easily reached by bus. By car, Park Boulevard provides easy access to the site’s free parking areas near most of the exhibits. The most scenic approach, however, is over the Cabrillo Bridge from the west—the steep roadsides, lush with hanging greenery, resemble a rain forest gorge.
When to Get There
Balmy San Diego is famous for its year-round sunshine and mild climate. Balboa Park is open year-round and 24 hours a day, with the Visitors Center open from 9:30am to 4:30pm. The zoo, museums, and other attractions have varying opening hours.
Things to Do Near Balboa Park
Although countless activities are available in Balboa Park, the location is an ideal base for seeing some of San Diego’s other top sights. The beaches of La Jolla, the charm of Old Town, and the bustle of the historic Gaslamp Quarter are just a short drive away.
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego 92101, USA
Hours: Open 24 hours a day. Visitors Center: 9:30am - 4:30pm. Museum hours vary by institution
Admission: Park and Gardens: free. Admission prices to museums vary by institution
From $ 15
Ballast Point
Since first being brewed at home by two friends in college, Ballast Point has risen the ranks of craft breweries nationwide and tops the San Diego brewing scene. Their Sculpin IPA is well recognized by beer enthusiasts, receiving gold medal awards for its flavor and balance.
A visit to the original brewery allows for tastings of their beers as well as a behind-the-scenes look at production. You’ll also learn about the history of the brewery and their unique styles of brewing. The brewery is also a great place to try many of the experimental and/or seasonal brews that may only be available on site. Flavors such as grapefruit, habanero pepper, and watermelon are available to sample, and more than twenty beers are on rotation fresh from the tap.
San Diego is known as a top craft brewery city in the whole of the United States, and Ballast Point has become a hallmark of its beer scene. It’s a must-stop on any tour of the city’s breweries.
Practical Info
There are four Ballast Point tasting rooms across San Diego. You can find them in the Miramar, Little Italy, Scripps Ranch, and Home Brew Mart locations. Free tours of the brewery are given four times daily, last around 45 minutes and require reservations in advance. Tastings, pints, and growlers are available at all locations.
Address: 10051 Old Grove Rd, San Diego, California, USA
Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–11pm, Sun 11am-9pm
From $ 85
General Jackson Showboat
Take in views of the spectacular Nashville skyline while rollin’ down the Cumberland River aboard the General Jackson Showboat. This Victorian-style riverboat includes a 2-story theater hosting a range of dinner shows, such as Taste of Tennessee and Music City Nights, as well as a Southern Sunday brunch.
The Basics
Visitors aboard the General Jackson Showboat have a choice of several performances, each served with a meal. The Taste of Tennessee day cruise features live music made famous in Nashville, while the evening Music City Nights recounts the story of Nashville’s famous nightlife through song, dance, and elaborate costumes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The General Jackson Showboat is a must for families and couples.
- Book your lunch or dinner cruise before you go to avoid disappointment.
- A round-trip cruise from Downtown Nashville and back is about 14 miles (23 kilometers).
- Most of the General Jackson Showboat is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The departure point for showboat cruises is off the Opry Mills exit of Briley Parkway. Visitors can park for free in the Opry Mills parking lot.
When to Get There
The General Jackson Showboat hosts shows daily, with performances for lunch or dinner. Special Christmas performances kick off in mid-November and continue through the New Year.
History of the General Jackson Showboat
Named after the first steamboat that operated on the Cumberland River in 1818 (which was itself named after President Andrew Jackson), this Nashville showboat was launched in 1985 with a 36-foot paddle-wheel and a capacity for more than 1,000 passengers
Address: 2812 Opryland Drive, Nashville 37214-1209, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 89