Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 2014 listings.
Clematis Street
Clematis Street is right at the historic heart of West Palm Beach and is home to some of the area’s best restaurants, shopping and nightlife. Busy by day and perhaps even busier by night, the colorful district is home to twelve historic landmarks that tell the story of the area. Detailed architecture represents centuries of eclectic styles, while the many fountains and gardens (along with oceanfront location) make this an especially scenic spot.
Boutiques line the street, which is full of antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and cafes (Antique Row features 40 specialty shops alone.) Boats dock at the floating pier at the water’s edge, and year-round water sports and activities can be launched from nearby. By night there are often live music performances or music booming from one of many nightclubs. The area is known for its nightlife particularly on Thursday nights, when it transforms into a lively street party called ‘Clematis By Night.’ The event also hosts weekly free concerts on the waterfront.
Practical Info
Clematis Street runs parallel to Okeechobee Blvd in downtown West Palm Beach, which is also the name of the nearest exit off of I-95. The main area of Clematis Streets beings at Flagler Drive on the Intracoastal Waterway and continues west. Street and garage parking is available. Walking is the best way to get around, though there is also a free shuttle that runs the length of the main street.
Address: Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401, USA
From $ 69
Colonial Park Cemetery
This site served as Savannah’s main cemetery for more than a century following its establishment in 1750. With three subsequent expansions, six acres and over 9,000 graves, burials were cut off in 1853, and the site is now recognized as the oldest intact municipal cemetery in the city.
When the site first opened, it was intended to serve as the burial ground for Christ Church Parish, but after its expansion, the cemetery was opened to all denominations. Since interments were closed prior to the start of the Civil War, no Confederate soldiers were buried here. There are, however, some burials of note; over 700 victims of the 1820 Yellow Fever epidemic are here, along with many victims of Savannah’s dueling era. Declaration of Independence signer Button Gwinnett is buried here, as well as Archibald Bulloch, the first president of Georgia, and James Habersham, an 18th-century acting royal Governor of the Province.
Not surprisingly, Colonial Park Cemetery is home to a number of interesting ghost stories and legends. Paranormal enthusiasts have dubbed it “Paranormal Central,” with one of the most famous ghost stories involving Rene Asche Rondolier, a disfigured orphan who was accused of murdering girls. It is said that he was dragged to the swamp and lynched, and some locals believe he still haunts the cemetery, calling it Rene’s playground. Some local paranormal experts dispute the validity of this ghost story due to a lack of historical records.
Other ghost stories revolve around Savannah’s voodoo culture. Although many have moved out of the city, years ago it was not uncommon for morning visitors to find remnants from a previous night’s ceremony. Soil was used from the graves, and some were actually robbed for use in these rituals. The small park adjacent to the cemetery is the location believed to be the site of Savannah’s dueling grounds.
Practical Info
Colonial Park Cemetery is located at 201 Abercorn Street in Savannah and is open to the public from 8am to 5pm, November through March, and from 8am to 8pm from March to November.
Address: 201 Abercorn St, Savannah, Georgia 31401, USA
Hours: Daily; Dec-Feb 8am-5pm March-Nov 8am-8pm
From $ 20
Coconino National Forest
The towns of Flagstaff and Sedona both sit within the Coconino National Forest, a 1.9-million acre area of protected land fringed by four additional national forests. Many of the natural attractions around Flagstaff can be found within Coconino National Forest, such as the San Francisco Peaks—including the 12,600-foot Humphreys Peak—and the Sunset Crater National Monument. Visitors can find ample outdoor adventures within the forest, from fishing and swimming holes along Wet Beaver Creek to hiking and biking on red rock trails like those around Carroll Canyon.
Practical Info
The headquarters of the national forest can be found in Flagstaff, and it’s open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with rangers on hand to answers question about things to do with the park. Free car maps are available at any of the forest offices, while trail maps cost $10.
Address: 1824 S. Thompson St., Flagstaff, Arizona, USA 86001, USA
Hours: The National Forest Headquarters in Flagstaff is open weekdays 8am-4pm.
From $ 170
Clearwater Beach
With expansive white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach is a waterfront Florida community known for its aquatic activities and warm, turquoise waters. Clearwater Beach is an ideal launching pad for kayaking, parasailing, boating, and biking. It’s known as being more low-key than its southern neighbor, the bustling St. Pete Beach, and many consider Clearwater Beach to be among the best beaches in America.
The Basics
There’s an activity for every age and interest at Clearwater Beach, from relaxing on the sand with beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas to jet-skiing, speed boating, and fishing. Families with kids enjoy the gentle surf, prime for swimming and water sports. Visitors often steal away from nearby theme parks to spend time on the water, sometimes on day trips from Orlando and St. Petersburg.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At three miles long, Clearwater Beach is easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot.
- Mandalay Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, is a mile-long stretch of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- To get an overview of the area, jump on the Jolley Trolley (fees apply), which travels around Clearwater Beach and up to Sand Key.
- Be sure to bring sun-protection gear and beachwear. Restroom and shower facilities are offered at most area beaches.
- Beach wheelchairs are available at the Main Beach Lifeguard Station, south of Pier 60.
How to Get There
Clearwater Beach is about 22 miles north of St. Pete Beach and two miles west of downtown Clearwater. The road south is South Gulfview Boulevard, and north is Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach’s main drag. The nearest airports are in Tampa, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, and St. Petersburg-Clearwater, 12 miles (19 kilometers). The beach is about a two-hour drive from Orlando.
When to Get There
Clearwater Beach is warm year-round, with peak temperatures from April to October. Summer temperatures often hit upwards of 90°F (32°C), when the humid, subtropical climate often also sees short thunderstorms. The mild winters attract the largest crowds.
More Than Just a Beach
Visitors to Clearwater Beach can do more than just lounge by the famously clear water. Plan ahead and book a deep-sea fishing tour or a dolphin boat tour, or check out the “Sea Screamer,” a speedboat that zooms along the coast. Don’t miss the 1,080-foot (329-meter) Pier 60, with its bait shop, playground, and evening sunset festival, or beautiful Sand Key Park, which sees smaller crowds.
Address: Clearwater Beach 33760, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 65
Alcatraz
Alcatraz, the former federal prison that once held notorious criminals Scarface Al Capone and George 'Machine Gun' Kelly, is today a national historic landmark and one of the most sought-out (and sold-out) attractions in the San Francisco Bay Area. Tour the remains of the maximum-security facility on small and windy Alcatraz Island, aptly nicknamed 'The Rock,' to scope out the grounds and cellhouse; hear stories from former inmates; and pass by the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and Angel Island on your 1.25-mile (2-km) ferry rides in and out.
The Basics
Alcatraz is only accessible by tour, and tickets sell out days (sometimes weeks) in advance. Lock in high-demand tickets by booking a San Francisco city tour that includes admission to the infamous federal penitentiary and a day of sightseeing via bike, bus, boat, or Segway. City tours typically cover highlights such as Chinatown, Coit Tower, North Beach, the Presidio, and the Ferry Building, while other booking options combine a hard-to-snag Alcatraz tour with a cable car ride, a bay cruise to Sausalito, or a multi-day adventure into the Marin headlands, wine country, or Muir Woods.
When to Get to Alcatraz
The Basics
Alcatraz is only accessible by tour, and tickets sell out days (sometimes weeks) in advance. Lock in high-demand tickets by booking a San Francisco city tour that includes admission to the infamous federal penitentiary and a day of sightseeing via bike, bus, boat, or Segway. City tours typically cover highlights such as Chinatown, Coit Tower, North Beach, the Presidio, and the Ferry Building, while other booking options combine a hard-to-snag Alcatraz tour with a cable car ride, a bay cruise to Sausalito, or a multi-day adventure into the Marin headlands, wine country, or Muir Woods.
Once on the island, visitors can explore at their own pace with the self-guided cellhouse audio tour (included in admission). You'll also find National Park Service exhibits, video presentations, docent- and ranger-led guided tours, and special programs that vary by season. Allow about 2.5 hours for the full Alcatraz prison experience, including both 15-minute ferry rides.
Things to Know Before You Go
All Alcatraz island tours depart via ferry from Pier 33 near Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. There are several parking garages in the area with rates from $25 to $50 per day, but prices typically double during special events, so consider taking public transportation. Multiple Muni lines run through the area, including the F-Line trolley. To arrive in style, consider booking a Viator VIP experience aboard an exclusive cable car.
- Alcatraz tickets include round-trip ferry transportation (take note of the assigned departure time printed on your ferry ticket). You can take any ferry back to the city, available every half hour or so.
- Bring a camera and a coat for the chilly but beautiful ferry rides.
- You'll find a few snacks offered on the ferry and water available on the island.
- The walk to the prison from the ferry dock is steep and hilly; an electric shuttle departs from the dock twice an hour for visitors requiring assistance. While wheelchairs are not provided or loaned at the prison, the cellhouse does have elevators.
All Alcatraz island tours depart via ferry from Pier 33 near Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. There are several parking garages in the area with rates from $25 to $50 per day, but prices typically double during special events, so consider taking public transportation. Multiple Muni lines run through the area, including the F-Line trolley. To arrive in style, consider booking a Viator VIP experience aboard an exclusive cable car.
When to Get to Alcatraz
Alcatraz cruises depart every half hour between 9am and 4pm. The early-bird trip departs at 8:45am, while the limited Alcatraz night tour allows visitors to stay on the grounds until 9:25pm and includes both live boat narration and a guided walk from the dock to the prison. Alcatraz tickets are hardest to come by in spring and summer.
Address: Ferries depart from Pier 33, San Francisco, California 94123, USA
Hours: Multiple departure times available
Admission: Varies
From $ 65
Aloha Tower Marketplace
Looming large over Honolulu Harbor, the Aloha Tower complex features several buildings including a 10 story clock tower, the (now closed) Hawaii Maritime Center and several dining establishments overlooking the large wooden and permanently-stationed Falls of Clyde sailing ship. The tower, built in 1926, housed a lighthouse and its clock was one of the largest in the United States at the time. It was first structure most immigrants and visitors to Hawaii saw when their boats docked here prior to the popularization of air travel. Today, cruise ships still pull into the nook alongside the building, and, regardless of whether you arrived on one, you can take a free elevator ride to the top of the tower and lookout over downtown, Waikiki and out across the ocean. While there’s little action at the marketplace today aside from a Hooters and a Gordon Biersch restaurant, Hawaii Pacific University has plans to revitalize the area in the coming years, converting the now largely-abandoned center into meeting space, shopping, dining and even residences.
Practical Info
The Aloha Tower building is located off Ala Moana Boulevard at 1 Aloha Tower Drive in downtown Honolulu. There is a large parking lot fronting the building that has hourly and daily rates. The tower is open from approximately 9:30 a.m. until around 5 p.m.
Address: 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA 96813, USA
Hours: Open daily 9:30am-5pm
From $ 25
Colorado River
The Colorado River is a spectacular sight to see, meandering for 1,447 miles (2,330 kilometers) with red rocks and canyons framing it on both sides, leading up to the Hoover Dam. The Colorado River is one of the major water sources for California and Nevada, and, not surprisingly, it's a major recreational destination—activities on the river include hiking, biking, rafting, and boating.
The Basics
Many travelers to Las Vegas to experience the Mighty Colorado River by visiting or canoeing the Black Canyon, so-called because of the black volcanic rocks found in the area. The canyons are majestic, red land formations that lead from Colorado toward the Hoover Dam in Nevada. Guided boating and canoeing tours take visitors down the Colorado River as it passes through the Black Canyon. At James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, hiking, rafting, fishing, rock climbing, and swimming are all available. Another bucket list experience well worth the time investment is a whitewater rafting trip through Grand Canyon National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The river is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Remember to wear comfortable clothes suitable for the activities you’re participating in.
- There isn’t always shade on the river, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- River trips and rafting tours to the Colorado River from Las Vegas can last anywhere from three to 15 hours, depending on the option chosen.
How to Get There
There are numerous access points to the Colorado River as it flows through Nevada, but most travelers visit on a guided adventure tour that includes return transportation from Las Vegas.
When to Get There
While there isn’t really a bad time to visit the Colorado River, commercial rafting trips—particularly those through the Grand Canyon—are generally offered from April to October. Depending on where you are along the river, temperatures in June, July, and August can soar above 100°F (38°C).
See the Colorado River from Above and Below
Those looking for a comprehensive Colorado River experience can combine a float trip or boat ride down the river with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour or a walk along the Grand Canyon Skywalk on the West Rim.
Address: USA
From $ 57
Alii Kula Lavender Farm
When most people think of lavender farms, they don’t think of Hawaii. But this farm’s fragrant seaside breezes and sweeping ocean vistas might make you forget all about France and merge the colorful purple blooms forever in your mind with memories of Maui. The (relatively) tiny Alii Kula Lavender Farm welcomes visitors for daily tours of its 13.5-acre cliff-side plot sporting 45 different varieties of the calming herb. It’s location in Kula, 4,000 feet above sea level in the Island’s elevated central region, enjoys a Mediterranean climate and also grows olive trees, hydrangea, South African protea and succulents.
Explore the farm on your own via their lavender treasure hunt or take a guided walking or golf-cart property tour departing several times each day (additional costs apply). In case you needed another way to relax on Maui, the farm house’s large lanai (porch) overlooking its gardens, white gazebo and the sea provides the perfect spot to indulge in lavender tea, a pre-packed gourmet picnic lunch featuring a special lavender-infused dessert or other organic botanical products from the onsite gift shop.
Practical Info
Alii Kula Lavender Farm is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. It is located at 1100 Waipoli Road—past the Kula Forest Reserve gates following the signs around the loop road. The last tour departs at 2:30pm. Golf cart tours departing twice daily ($25). General admission is $3 with discounts for Hawaii residents, military, seniors, and groups. Kids 12 and under are free.
Address: 1100 Waipoli Rd, Kula, Hawaii, USA 96790, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am-4pm
Admission: General Admission: $3; Walking Tour for Adults: $12
From $ 169
College of the Ozarks
The College of the Ozarks is a private Christian school near Branson, Missouri, that has long been famous for its policy of not charging admission to its full-time students. Founded in 1906, the school has never charged admission. Instead, students work on campus 15 hours a week during the school year and also work two 40-hour weeks during each break between semesters. The motto of the school is “Hard Work U.”
Enrollment at the College of the Ozarks is roughly 1,500 students, and there are work opportunities on campus in every academic and administrative department. With more than 40 possible majors to choose from, that means students get an education as well as potentially valuable work experience in a related field. Not only that, students graduate from C of O with no debt.
Practical Info
Visitors are welcome at the College of the Ozarks, which is in Point Lookout, about six miles from Branson. You can use the campus map to do a self-guided tour, and prospective students can take a one-hour walking tour with a guide. You can visit the Ralph Foster Museum to learn about the history of the Ozarks, and the Fruitcake and Jelly Kitchen to bring home one of the college's famous fruitcakes.
Address: Point Lookout, Missouri, USA
From $ 52
Coit Tower
Visitors flock to Coit Tower to take in views of downtown San Francisco, Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and other landmarks. With its perch in Pioneer Park atop Telegraph Hill, the 210-foot-high (64-meter-high) tower, built in 1933, offers some of the best panoramic photo ops in the city.
The Basics
Coit Tower was built with money left to the city by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a philanthropist and firefighter groupie who wanted to beautify her city. Visiting the park at the base of the tower is free and still provides good views of San Francisco Bay, but if you want the ultimate vista, head up the elevator to the summit of the tower for a fee.
First, though, stop to admire the 1930s-era murals in the lobby that depict the history of California. Controversial when they were painted, the frescoes were part of President Roosevelt’s Public Works of Art Project. Some city tours include a drive-by of Coit Tower but most do not stop there, so look for a more specific tour such as a North Beach urban hike if you want time to visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk—it’s a steep climb to get to the base of the tower from any direction.
- Restrooms are available.
- Tickets for the tower can be purchased in advance if you wish to skip the line.
- Docent-led tours are available on-site for small groups.
How to Get There
Taking public transportation or walking is recommended, as parking is very limited on Telegraph Hill and the only road to the top—Telegraph Hill Boulevard—can get backed up. MUNI bus 39 takes you right to the base of the tower, while the 45 and 30 go to Washington Square in North Beach a few blocks away. For a thigh-burning workout that gives you an up-close look at neighborhood homes, take the lovely Filbert Street Stairs.
When to Get There
Coit Tower can be quite crowded on summer weekends. To avoid the masses, visit early in the morning or at sunset for golden views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and remember that the area at the tower’s base can be accessed even when the tower itself is closed. Coit Tower is particularly popular on the Fourth of July, when the city puts on a fireworks display over the water, and during Fleet Week in October.
The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill
As you walk up to the base of the tower, watch for the local band of parrots who spend much of their time in the trees that surround the park. Made famous by the documentary The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill, the red and green birds are noisy but generally beloved.
Address: Telegraph Hill Boulevard, North Beach, 94133, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Clermont State Historic Site
Steeped in history and built beautifully in brick and stone, the Clement State Historic Site features the former estate of Robert Livingston Jr. which dates back to the early 18th century. Standing tall on the banks of the Hudson River, it has survived a burning by the British in the Revolutionary War and inspired a Colonial Revival in the 1920s. Today it is owned by the state and preserved in its 1930s style, with period furniture and decorative arts that reflect three centuries of history.
Visitors can browse the grand halls and view the impressive art, porcelain collection, and chandeliers that characterize the opulent interior. Tours grant insight into the seven generations who once lived here. Their stories, and the world at the time during which they lived, are certainly worth hearing. You also won’t want to miss the views from its landscaped gardens, which include a lilac walk, a walled garden, and some of the best birdwatching in the area.
Practical Info
The house is located in Germantown just outside of the town of Clermont. It’s open to visitors Wednesday-Sunday from April-October and on weekends from November-December, from 11am-3pm. The grounds and gardens are open year-round from 8:30am to sunset. Tours must be reserved in advance. Admission is $7 for adults and is free for children under 12.
Address: One Clermont Avenue, Germantown, New York, USA
Hours: 8:30am-Sunset
Admission: Adults: $7; Children: Free
From $ 73
Cliff House
With its cliff-top location on the western edge of San Francisco, the Cliff House restaurant attracts locals and visitors with its fine dining and views of the Pacific and Ocean Beach. Originally opened in 1863, the Cliff House has gone through many changes over the years and today is part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
The Basics
There are several ways to enjoy the Cliff House, whether you want a gourmet meal or just a peek inside. Make a dinner reservation at white-tablecloth restaurant Sutro’s, which has 2-story windows to maximize the views; enjoy a more casual meal at the Bistro; have a drink at the Zinc Bar or Balcony Lounge; or check out the gift shop for souvenirs and travel books.
With its location on the far side of the city, away from most tourist attractions, the Cliff House is not always part of city sightseeing tours. However, some tour groups do make it out to the Cliff House, especially smaller tours by minivan or private tours that can be customized. A coastal walking tour is another good option, as the nearby trails and beach are worth the trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Cliff House is ideal for photography enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone celebrating a special occasion.
- The Bistro is walk-in only and doesn’t take reservations.
- Reservations can be made for Sutro’s and for the Terrace Room’s Sunday champagne brunch buffet.
- The restaurants are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Via public transport, the 38 Muni bus takes you to the end of Geary Boulevard, and from there it’s about five minutes’ walk to the Cliff House. Valet parking and street parking are available for those driving their own cars.
When to Get There
The building is open every day, with various breakfast, lunch, and dinner hours for the restaurants and bar. Go Friday night for live jazz or Sunday for a Champagne brunch buffet. Sunset offers the most romantic views and atmosphere.
Ocean Beach
Starting at the Cliff House, Ocean Beach stretches south 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers), marking the western edge of the city and the end of Golden Gate Park. The wide beach draws visitors for picnics, walks, beach bonfires, and beautiful sunsets. Although swimming isn’t common here (the water is cold), surfing is popular.
Address: 1090 Point Lobos Avenue, San Francisco, California 94121, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 48
Colorado State Capitol Building
Reminiscent of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., the Colorado State Capitol Building sitting high atop Denver is not just a 24 karat gold-domed meeting place for the Colorado General Assembly, but also an homage to the American governmental process, as well as a truly beautiful archaeological wonder.
Built a mile high above sea level, as denoted by the markings inscribed upon its steps, the Colorado State Capital Building has incredible views of downtown Denver, and a history that tells of the days of the Gold Rush and the incredible use of the beautiful Colorado Rose Onyx used to build the interior of the capitol and the designs of dignitaries engraved therein. It is said that the entire known supply of this rare marble was exhausted in making of the Colorado State Capitol.
Tours will tell of early Colorado history, the Capitol construction, the origin of several stained glass windows, the Woman’s Gold Tapestry, and a stop outside the State and House Representative chambers.
Practical Info
Tours are generally available weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and are free of charge.
Address: 200 East Colfax Avenue, Denver 80203, USA
Hours: Weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m
From $ 15
Coachella Valley Preserve
The endangered fringe-toed lizard is given room to roam at the Coachella Valley Preserve, which was specifically designed to protect these desert creatures.
Guided hikes through the preserves’ sand dunes and rocky escarpments are led by knowledgeable naturalists who can share their insights into the life cycle of this threatened reptile.
The preserve has more than 25 miles (40 km) of hiking trails. While you walk, look out for eagles, California fan palms, bobcats, horned owls, cottontail bunnies, kestrels and lizards.
Practical Info
The Coachella Valley Preserve is off the Interstate 10 highway, 10 miles (16 km) east of Palm Springs.
Address: 29,200 Thousand Palms Canyon Road, Thousand Palms CA 92276, USA
Hours: Open daily, closed Jun – Aug
From $ 49
Alki Beach
This picturesque beach on the shore of Elliott Bay runs a narrow 2.5-mile strip between Alki Point and Duwamish Head. Known as the site of the first white settlers in Seattle, its sandy shores attract as many cyclists, joggers and bladers as beachcombers and sun worshipers and storm chasers. Public restrooms, picnic areas, an art studio and bathhouses make it the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun with family and friends. And impressive views of the Puget Sound and Seattle skyline make it one of the most scenic strips of sand in Washington.
Practical Info
The beach is open to the public from 4:30 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. Parking is available along Alki Avenue SW. Water temperatures range from 46 to 56 degrees year round, making its beautiful blue waters perfect for a chilly swim.
Address: Seattle, Washington, USA
Hours: Open to the public from 4:30 a.m. until 11:30 p.m.
From $ 89
Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove is a bayside village in Miami, recognized as the oldest modern continuously inhabited neighborhood in the city. Originally settled in the 1800s, Coconut Grove is sometimes referred to as “Bohemia on the Bay.” Complete with a pedestrian-friendly village center where visitors can wander galleries, go shopping or enjoy lunch at a quaint sidewalk café. There are some recognizable chain restaurants and open-air malls but also college bars, as students from nearby Florida International University and the University of Miami flock to the area, especially as the sun goes down. Known locally as “the Grove,” its bay-front location also showcases a number of various parks.
Village West, a noted sub-area, is the modern-day historic home of Bahamian and African-American descendants of Coconut Grove’s earliest settlers. There is evidence that settlers from the Bahamas came via Key West in order to work at the Peacock Inn, the first hotel in the area, which was originally called the Bay View Inn.
Coconut Grove has been a popular location for the filming of various television series and movies, including Meet the Fockers, Marley & Me and Burt Reynolds’ 1985 Stick. Shows like Dexter, CSI: Miami and The First 48 have been filmed in the village as well. If you remember George Michael’s “Careless Whisper” video, the shot of him looking out to sea from a hotel balcony was shot in Coconut Grove too. The village’s popularity extends not only to set locations, but also to some noted celebrities. Sylvester Stallone and Madonna both called the village home for a few years, and professional athletes like the NFL‘s Frank Gore and the NBA’s LeBron James are among Coconut Grove’s residents as well.
Practical Info
Coconut Grove is bordered by North Prospect Drive to the south, LeJeune Road to the west, South Dixie Highway (US 1) and Rickenbacker Causeway to the north, and Biscayne Bay to the east. There is an information kiosk located on Grand Avenue, steps away from CocoWalk.
Address: Miami, Florida, USA
From $ 29
College Football Hall of Fame
The College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta honors the greatest players throughout the history of college football. Their stories and achievements are commemorated here in a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors can learn about exceptional players and the records they broke by exploring the exhibitions in the Hall of Fame. Permanent, etched-glass representations of each Hall of Fame player are on display. There are also 10 augmented reality displays where visitors can view images and video of players and coaches from their favorite school.
More than 750 helmets representing each college football team are on display, as well as larger than life images from 11 conference champions that are updated each season. Visitors can also see historical game-worn uniforms. Other exhibitions explore the dedication, passion, and sacrifice that goes into being a college football player. There are also sections that focus on the social traditions of college football, the bands, cheerleaders, mascots, and tailgating traditions.
Practical Info
The College Football Hall of Fame is located at 250 Marietta St., N.W.
Address: 250 Marietta St., N.W., Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Admission: Adults: $19.99; Children: $16.99
From $ 83
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) was opened in 1972 as a marine biology learning center in Clearwater, Florida, about 40 minutes from both Tampa and St. Petersburg. Over the years, it has grown and expanded into a center for public education and animal care (their motto is "rescue, rehab, release") while retaining its focus on marine research.
CMA is perhaps most famous for one of its residents, a dolphin named Winter who, at three months old, got tangled in a crab trap line and was unable to escape. She was rescued and brought to CMA for rehabilitation, but her injuries were so serious that her tail had to be amputated, along with two vertebrae. The story has a happy ending, though. Through collaboration with a human prosthetics company, a marine veterinarian and the folks at CMA, Winter now has a prosthetic tail and she’s doing well. The film Dolphin Tale (2011) was based on Winter’s story; she still lives at CMA and can be visited at Winter's Dolphin Tale Adventure (WDTA), located just a short (free) trolley ride away from CMA.
Practical Info
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage in Clearwater, Florida. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some exhibits are located outside, so in the case of inclement weather, certain exhibits may be temporarily closed throughout the day without notice. Admission is $21.95 for adults ages 13 to 59; $19.95 for seniors 60 years of age or older and $16.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free.
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, Florida 33767, USA
Admission: Adults: $21.95; Children: $16.95
From $ 107
Alexander Valley
The Alexander Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is located at the north end of Sonoma County wine country and home to more than 40 wineries. Best known for cabernet sauvignon, the AVA is 22 miles long and ranges from two to seven miles wide. Of its 75,000-plus acres, more than 15,000 are used to grow grapes. Alexander Valley received federal recognition as an AVA in 1984.
The AVA has a number of microclimates. Cabernet sauvignon grapes thrive throughout the valley, but growers also have success with varieties such as chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, zinfandel and merlot.
Practical Info
Alexander Valley is an easy drive north from San Francisco on Highway 101. Plan on an hour and a half to two hours ride, depending on where in the Valley you want to taste. Horizon Air flies into the Charles M. Schulz, Sonoma County Airport (STS) in nearby Santa Rosa daily from Los Angeles and Seattle.
Address: Alexander Valley, California, USA
From $ 175
Alexander Hamilton US Custom House
Long before the Alexander Hamilton Custom House was constructed in the early 1900s, the area served as an important trading place for Native Americans living in the region. The ornate building’s ode to commerce is not only a fitting home for the National Museum of the American Indian’s New York outpost—its exhibits and open-to-the public offerings have occupied parts of the building’s first and most of the second floor since 1994—it also offers visitors who make the trek to Manhattan’s far south a two-for-one: the historic Beau Arts building is an attraction in itself.
Across from Battery Park, the finely detailed trapezoidal exterior sits squarely in a city block. Forty-four carved-out columns adorning its façade are topped with images of Mercury, the Roman God representing commerce, a reminder of the building’s original tenants who collected taxes on imported goods from the Port of New York, then the country’s most prosperous trading post. Seated sculptures representing America, Asia, Europe and Africa, were carved by the same sculptor who carved the statue in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. An equally elaborate marble interior culminates in colorful mosaics leading up to the domed rotunda, with its spectacular and light-infusing glass top.
All of this was almost lost to time—its exterior granite covered in algae and plants and interior crumbling from disuse—but a complete restoration in the 1980s revitalized the building. The structure is listed as a National Historic Landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, and tours detailing the building’s architecture and history take place throughout the week (check in with the Visitor’s desk at the museum for times).
Practical Info
The Alexander Hamilton Custom House is located at 1 Bowling Green in Manhattan. The entrance of the Bowling Green Subway Station (4 and 5 trains) is across from the building’s north side, and buses M5, M15 and M20 service the area. The building itself does not have parking, but there are several nearby garages.
The National Museum of the American Indian, the George Gustav Heye Center, is open daily from 10am til 5pm (except Thursdays when it remains open until 8pm). Admission and tours are free. The museum houses permanent and temporary exhibitions, and a regular slate of public programming.
Address: 1 Bowling Green, New York City, New York, USA
Hours: Open daily from 10am-5pm (except Thursdays when it remains open until 8pm)
From $ 35