Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
ShowingFilter 81-100 of 2596 listings.
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
Cleveland Dam
Built in 1954, the Cleveland Dam was constructed for a number of important reasons. Unlike many other dams though, this one is not used for hydroelectricity. Instead, the original purpose of the dam was to hold back water entering into Burrard Inlet, which used to come in at a heavy pace carrying with it a hearty amount of silt and rocks, as well as a heavy current. Cleveland Dam was also constructed to protect a means of fresh drinking water for the lower mainland of Vancouver. In fact, the lake above Cleveland Dam provides the lower mainland with a whopping 40% of its fresh drinking water.
These days, Cleveland Dam makes up a part of North Vancouver that has quickly become a popular tourism destination and in the area around the dam, there are a number of parks and hiking paths. The dam itself sits in a protected park called Capilano River Regional Park, which also encompasses Capilano Lake, the body of water that the 300-foot spillway of the dam encloses. In the area, visitors can also find attractions such as the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn Canyon Park, and Grouse Mountain.
Practical Info
Cleveland Dam is located in North Vancouver and if you’re heading there by car from the downtown area, is best reached via Stanley Park, the Lion's Gate Bridge and Capilano Road. You can also reach the Dam via public transport by catching bus No. 426 toward Highland. The journey takes about 45 minutes and busses leave around every 30 minutes.
Address: North Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 121
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
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a neon-heavy, Vegas-like strip filled with a concentrated cluster of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the 175-foot (53-meter) Niagara SkyWheel, Guinness World Records Museum, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, and several haunted houses are among its prominent points of interest.
The Basics
The bustling promenade of Clifton Hill is one of Niagara Falls most attraction-packed thoroughfares. Many visitors to the falls will find themselves here at some point, whether en route to a Hornblower Cruise or to visit one of the many other attractions based here.
Visitors can pre-purchase tickets for Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum and for the Niagara SkyWheel, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Horseshoe and American falls, Niagara River, and Niagara Parks. If you plan on visiting a few of the major attractions here, consider opting for a multi-attraction Clifton Hill pass, which will get you access to the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, the Wild West Coaster ride, the Zombie Attack experience, the Ghost Blasters Dark Ride, and either Wizards’ Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Clifton Hill is a must-do for families and thrill-seekers.
- Lots of restaurants, bars, and cafés are located along the strip.
- Some of Clifton Hill’s attractions, including the Niagara SkyWheel, Wild West Coaster, and Wizards Golf, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Clifton Hall is located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, connecting River Road on Niagara Parkway to the intersection of Victoria Avenue. To get there, ride the WEGO red, blue, or green line buses to the Clifton Hill/Hornblower Niagara Cruises stop.
When to Get There
Clifton Hill is fun to visit in any season, with attractions, like the Niagara SkyWheel, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, and the Fun House, open throughout the year. Summers are when Clifton Hill is liveliest and arguably most atmospheric, though in winter, the Winter Festival of Lights helps ensure it’s never dull. Visit Clifton Hill early in the morning, while other sightseers are just waking up, to avoid the biggest crowds.
How to View the Niagara Illuminations from Clifton Hill
To get the most out of your Clifton Hill experience, wait until night to go up the SkyWheel. Once it’s dark, you’ll be able to see the Falls Illumination, during which Niagara Falls is lit up with twinkling LED lights. During the summer months, you may even get to see the Niagara Falls Fireworks spectacle from the pod of the Ferris wheel, which rises 175 feet (53 meters).
Address: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls L2G 3N4, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 8
CN Tower
For many visitors to Toronto, this needle-like telecommunications tower—often seen from the airplane window—is their first glimpse of the city. When it was erected in 1976, the CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding structure. Though it no longer holds that title, it is still the tallest tower in Canada, and the spectacular views from its observation decks are second to none.
The Basics
At 1,815 feet (553 meters), the CN Tower is hard to miss, and almost every sightseeing tour of the Toronto includes at least a look at this iconic structure. To get a real sense of its soaring height, it’s best to go inside. Regular entry, which you can combine with a guided walking tour or harbor cruise, gives you access to the vertigo-triggering Glass Floor at 1,122 feet (342 meters) and the 1,136-foot (436-meter) LookOut Level deck via high-speed, glass-walled elevators. You can go to the even higher SkyPod platform at 1,465 feet (447 meters), though you need a separate ticket. For the ultimate thrill, try the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the ledge of the tower’s main pod. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located on the ground floor. For a novel perspective of the tower, take a helicopter tour over Toronto’s skyline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear a jacket or outer layer as it can be cold on the Outdoor SkyTerrace, located on the same level as the world-famous Glass Floor.
- Access to the observation level is free to those who dine in the tower’s revolving restaurant.
- The Glass Floor, LookOut Level, and the first level of the SkyPod are all accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
CN Tower is located beside the Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. The visitors’ entrance is on Bremner Boulevard. Take the subway (line 1 Yonge-University) to Union Station and walk west along Front Street. It’s a five- to 10-minute walk from the station.
When to Get There
Summer weekends are peak visiting days. Most people come between 11am and 5pm—go in early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. After sunset, you can witness the tower’s eight-minute light show, which takes place on the hour.
What the CN Tower Actually Does
More than just a show-stopping architectural icon and tourist attraction, the CN Tower serves a practical purpose as a telecommunications tower. Prior to its construction, the increasingly tall Toronto skyline was making it difficult to transmit radio and television signals. Though the tower may appear spindly, it is in fact very sturdy. It is covered with thick reinforced concrete, weighs 130,000 tons (117,910 metric tonnes), and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Address: 301 Front Street West, Downtown South, Toronto M5V 2T6, Canada
Hours: Open daily 9am - 11pm
Admission: Adults: CA$36.00
From $ 16
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
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
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
Cola de Caballo
The scenic skyline of Cerro de la Silla (aka Saddle Mountain) in the rugged foothills of Cumbres de Monterrey is one of the main draws to this national park, but Cola de Caballo—also known as Horse Tail waterfall—in another popular stop in this urban escape just outside Monterrey. Located in the town of Villa de Santiago in Nueva Leon, Cola de Caballo looks like the horse tail it’s named for and cascades some 130 feet into a crystal clear swimming hole that has become a favorite among travelers.
Practical Info
Cola de Caballo is located 17 miles northeast of Catemaco. It is accessible by car via a paved road and following the exit to Rio Cuetzalapan Valley. Because some of the route is unpaved it’s best to avoid after heavy rains. Private hiking guides are available for hire for about 100 pesos and can lead travelers safely through steep terrain and uneven paths.
Address: Cola de Caballo, Villa de Santiago, Monterrey, Mexico
Hours: Daily
From $ 64
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
Coba Ruins
In the heart of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula lie the ruins of Coba, an ancient Maya city considered to be one of the most important settlements in Mesoamerican history. During its peak between AD 500 and 900, Coba housed 50,000 residents and was the central terminus for the complex Maya system of roadways. The jungle site is still being excavated, but visitors can experience the already discovered remains of these sacbes, or stone causeways, as well as a number of engraved and sculpted monuments.
The Basics
The Coba ruins are an easy day trip from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. Visitors can stroll or bike past two ball courts and the roads that once linked major Maya cities, and climb 120 steep steps up Nohoch Mul (the tallest ancient pyramid on the Yucatan Peninsula) for panoramic views of the lush Mexican jungle. Take a small-group or private tour of the ruins to gain deep insights into ancient Maya culture, or beat the crowds with an archaeologist-led, early-access tour of both Coba and Chichen Itza. If you’re feeling adventurous, combine your visit with a cenote swim, a snorkeling excursion, or a visit to an authentic Maya village.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The archaeological site is vast, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking and at least a few hours of exploring.
- The top of Nohoch Mul is inaccessible to visitors with limited mobility, but pedicab services are available onsite for tours around the ruins. The Coba ruins are one of the more accessible Maya sites in the area.
- Restrooms can be found at the entrance to the ruins.
- Bring insect repellent, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
How to Get There
Coba is roughly 45 minutes by road from Tulum, traveling inland. If driving, take extra precaution at small villages that are known for their speed bumps. Several public buses also make the 3-hour journey each day, but you can save the hassle by taking a guided day trip, many of which include hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
The archaeological site is open year-round. High season (December through April) brings sunny weather along with lots of visitors; go early to avoid the crowds that start pouring in at about 11am. Visit during the rainy season (May through October) for lower prices and fewer crowds, but be prepared to change your plans according to the weather.
Can’t-Miss Sights Near Coba
The Yucatan jungle surrounding the Coba ruins is worth exploring on its own. Try combining a tour of the ancient city with a trip to cool off in a cenote, a limestone sinkhole filled with clear water that’s great for swimming, tubing, or kayaking. You can also explore the nearby Tulum and Chichen Itza ruins, try your hand at ziplining in the forest, or visit the Xel-Ha aquatic park.
Address: Coba, Mexico
Admission: $6
From $ 59
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
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
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
Algonquin Provincial Park
Established in 1893, Algonquin is the oldest provincial park in Canada. Spreading across 2,955 square miles (7,650 square kilometers), this vast wilderness encompasses maple-carpeted hills, thick pine forest, and thousands upon thousands of lakes. The abundant wildlife here includes black bears, moose, and packs of Algonquin wolves.
The Basics
Though Algonquin presents many opportunities for day trips, including hikes along trailheads just off Highway 60, you’ll need several days to explore more remote parts of the park’s interior. The park offers countless opportunities for swimming, wildlife-viewing, fishing, stargazing, and relaxing in nature.
Much of the interior is accessible only via the vast Algonquin Park canoe routes network, which can be explored as part of multi-day tours. Visitors can get an introduction to wilderness camping on guided multi-day canoe trips that include canoe rentals, meals, permits, and equipment. For a more comfortable park tour option, choose a multi-day adventure tour that includes accommodation in a lodge or forest cabin.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Algonquin Provincial Park is a must for wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- For information and tips, stop by the Algonquin Visitor Centre, situated along Highway 60.
- Algonquin Provincial Park has wheelchair-accessible campgrounds, trails (Spruce Bog Boardwalk Trail and Fire Tower Trail), and visitor facilities, including the Algonquin Visitor Centre and Algonquin Logging Museum.
How to Get There
Algonquin Provincial Park is situated between Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River in central Ontario, about 185 miles (300 kilometers) north of Toronto. The park is accessible via Highway 60, which cuts through part of the southern section.
When to Get There
Algonquin offers different activities in different seasons. Spring is good for birding, lake trout fishing, and moose watching; mid-September to mid-October is best for fall colors; and winter offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog-sledding opportunities. Watch out for black flies and mosquitoes, which are out in full force between late May and late June.
Algonquin Park Wildlife
Algonquin Provincial Park is known for its abundance of wildlife. While black bears, white-tailed deer, and moose are all commonly spotted, the most famous inhabitants of the park are the Algonquin wolves. About 35 wolf packs are believed to roam the park, and public wolf howls are held at the park every August. During these events, naturalist staff intimate the calls of wolves, encouraging them to respond. Those camping in Algonquin are bound to hear the distinctive call of the loon, which is most vocal during May and June.
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario, Canada
From $ 416
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
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
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
CoCo Bongo
CoCo Bongo in Cancun isn’t your typical nightclub. For starters, there’s no traditional dance floor. Instead, the popular venue hosts energetic performances including acrobats, bands, and musical impersonators who belt out tunes by artists ranging from Rihanna to Elvis. This lively spot is a must-visit for those looking for a fun night out in Cancun but don’t want to simply dance to DJs.
The Basics
This favorite nightlife franchise boasts three locations in the Caribbean—Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Punta Cana. Each location features a huge video screen and seating on multiple levels for viewing the productions, along with festive touches like soap bubbles, balloons, confetti, and streamers. You’ll find plenty of skip-the-line booking options, and some even include an open bar for groups. This can be advantageous to avoid long lines at the door and bar during busy times.
Things to Know Before You Go
- CoCo Bongo isn’t a traditional nightclub with a DJ, but you’ll find those nearby if you’re planning on a club crawl.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll likely be standing most of the night.
- The venue can become extremely crowded, especially during peak times.
How to Get There
Located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, one block from the Caribbean Sea, CoCo Bongo is within walking distance from most accommodations. Taxis are also readily available in the area and bar-hopping tours typically include the venue on their routes. Keep in mind that most skip-the-line ticket options don’t include transportation.
When to Get There
On the weekends and during high season (from December to April), lines to get into CoCo Bongo can be long. If you want to avoid the crowds, stop by on a weeknight. The venue opens at 10pm and closes at 4am, but the shows end at 2am; you can stay and dance until closing, however. Some tickets will give you access until 3:30am.
Nearby Carlos'n Charlie's and Señor Frog's
Two of Cancun’s other hot nightclubs, Carlos'n Charlie's and Señor Frog's, offer similar VIP service packages with open bar and skip-the-line access, and are located right next door to CoCo Bongo. These spots don’t offer the range of performances like CoCo Bongo, but visitors can still expect plenty of fun party vibes with a spring break–style atmosphere and funky cocktails.
Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.5 #30, Zona Hotelera, Cancún, QROO 77500, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 70