Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa
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Downtown Container Park
This collection of boutique shops with unique goods was formed from leftover shipping containers. The open air shopping spot is centered around a courtyard, which has a playground for children (with a treehouse!) and a stage with frequent live entertainment and events. Dining options range from high-end restaurants to gourmet hot dog stands and a craft whiskey bar. There are even art galleries to peruse and often concerts and films.
Specialty shops vary from boutique clothing stores to home decor and smaller local goods. The emphasis is on supporting one-of-a-kind products from local Las Vegas businesses and items that cannot be found elsewhere. There are also interesting artistic designs and exhibits throughout, making this a fascinating place to explore with something for everyone.
Practical Info
The park is located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas on the historic Fremont Street. The shops are open from Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, with extended hours Friday to Saturday, and limited hours on Sunday. A bus provides transportation from the Las Vegas Strip. There is no on-site parking.
Address: 707 Fremont St, Las Vegas, Nevada 89101, USA
From $ 9
Barclays Center
At a time when Brooklyn is quickly becoming known as the hottest borough, the Barclays Center is just as rapidly taking its place as Brooklyn’s hottest venue. Stationed at the intersection of Atlantic and Flatbush Avenues near Downtown Brooklyn and across the street from Atlantic Terminal, the Barclays Center is home to the NBA’s Nets and also plays host to plenty of city, national and international entertainment tours.
This popular venue, which now rivals the popularity of famed Madison Square Garden, opened its doors in 2012 and has won recognition in equal parts because of big name shows and big name rapper Jay-Z. With typical stadium seating, plus 101 luxury suites, four bars, four clubs and plenty of nearby dining options, the Bar Clay’s center has become a destination for locals and travelers looking to sit back, relax and enjoy some truly epic sports, performances and live entertainment.
Practical Info
The Barclays Center is easily accessible using public transportation, with some 11 subways and the Long Island Railroad making stops within walking distance. Hours are dependent upon scheduled events, so check the website for up-to-date details.
Address: 620 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11217, USA
Hours: Vary
From $ 400
Barbary Coast Trail
The Barbary Coast Trail connects twenty of San Francisco’s most historic locations, with bronze trail markers on the sidewalks leading the way. Many of the sites correspond to two of the most important events of the city’s history: the Gold Rush and the earthquake of 1906. The Barbary Coast refers to the red-light district of saloons, dance halls, jazz clubs, and brothels that developed in the city at the end of the 19th century.
Developed by the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society, the trail takes you on a walk through the different eras of the city, including the time of “beat” poetry in North Beach and Depression-era murals near Coit Tower. The first Asian temple in North America is also a stop on the trail. The four-mile path begins at the Old Mint and passes through historic museums, sailing ships, pubs, homes, and cafes that tell the story of San Francisco.
Practical Info
The Barbary Coast Trail begins at the Old Mint and ends at Aquatic Park. Each end of the walking trail is connected by the Powell-Hyde cable car line.
Address: 900 Market Street, San Francisco, California 94102, USA
From $ 30
Dow Museum of Historic Houses
This popular city attraction is the ideal destination for history, architecture and art lovers. Travelers can saddle up to a city block that dates back some 400 years and learn about the stunning collection that was once Kenneth Dow’s. The nine homes and stunning courtyards that make up this worth-while stop showcase the life of locals during historic times and pay homage to the gardens, traditions and artistry this part of the state is known for.
Practical Info
The Dow Museum of Historic Houses is located at 149 Cardova Street, near the corner of Bridge Street in St. Augustine, in the old town section of the city. It is open daily from 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. with tours offered at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.
Address: 149 Cardova Street, St Augustine, Florida, USA
Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. with tours offered at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm.
From $ 28
Carter House
This one-and-a-half story historic red brick house was built in 1830 and once served as the home to Fountain Branch Carter. And while it once served as the residence and farm of this iconic local, it later became the sights of a truly historic battle.
Visitors who make a stop at this popular destination will learn about the transformation of this historic home into a civil war headquarters in 1864, when 20,000 Confederates attacked. Tours are available for travelers who want to witness history come to life, and include an inside look at the plantation, its grounds and the houses that are stationed within its borders.
Practical Info
The Carter House is located at 1140 Columbia Avenue in Franklin, Tennessee. It is open daily from 9 am until 5 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am until 5 pm.Guided tours of this historic house are available daily. Although these cannot be scheduled in advance, the wait time is typically 30 minutes or less. Entrance is $15 for adults and $8 for children 6 to 12.
Address: 1140 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, Tennessee 37064, USA
Hours: Open daily from 9 am until 5 pm, and on Sundays from 11 am until 5 pm
Admission: Entrance is $15 for adults and $8 for children 6 to 12
From $ 79
Banzai Pipeline
The Banzai Pipeline, one of the most famous surf breaks along Oahu’s Seven Mile Miracle, is known by wave riders the world over. This is no beginners’ break: Pipeline has earned its reputation as one of the most intense on the planet. The danger here is the same thing forms its ridable tubes—an abrupt and shallow coral shelf that causes the water mounds to topple quickly and very close to the shoreline. Experts try their luck when Pipeline pounds between October and April with waves heights averaging 15 feet.
As one might imagine, with surf crashing close to shore, Pipeline is a sight to behold even for landlubbers. Gawkers come out in droves to see the spectacular sunsets over the tropical waves, but especially to see the pros shred it. The Billabong Pipe Masters’ challenge—the final competition in the World Surf League’s competitive season and culminating event of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing—selects its winner here each December.
In the summer months, it can be hard to recognize The Pipe. The ocean pulls a 180, the wind and the waves die down and the waters off Banzai Beach become a popular snorkeling spot.
Practical Info
In typical North Shore low-key style, no signs blare “Pipeline this way.” If you weren’t looking for this world famous spot, you might miss it! The break is located off Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea, and most easily found by spotting Sunset Beach Elementary across the street. If you have a GPS, set it for the Beach Park at 59-337 Ke Nui Road. A small parking area fits maybe 20 cars, and when the waves are good it’s almost always full. Your best bet will likely be to park on the left side of Kamehameha Highway and walk back. Note even in the summer waves and currents can be finicky: If you plan to snorkel, check with lifeguard (daily 9 a.m. til 5:30 p.m.) to make sure it’s safe to proceed.
Address: Ehukai Beach Park, Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii, USA 96712, USA
From $ 68
Bank of America Stadium
Opened in 1996, Bank of America Stadium is home to the Carolina Panthers football team. The stadium is located in uptown Charlotte and was specially designed for football. The open-air, natural grass stadium has 73,778 seats. During a 2014 renovation, high-definition video boards were added above each end zone, along with a high-efficiency, high-octave sound system.
In addition to the actual playing field, Bank of America Stadium is also home to the Carolina Panthers’ headquarters, training facilities, practice fields and administrative offices.
Practical Info
The stadium and practice fields are spread over 33 acres of land in uptown Charlotte. It is bordered by Interstate 277, Mint, Graham and Morehead streets. Tours of the Bank of American Stadium are offered most Wednesdays and Fridays. Groups of 10 or fewer do not require a reservation. Space is limited, so it’s a good idea to arrive earlier as opposed to later.
Address: 800 S Mint St, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Carytown
Spend an afternoon shopping and people watching around the hip and vibrant Carytown neighborhood in west Richmond. The nine-block shopping area sits just south of the Museum District, only a couple blocks from the Museum of Fine Arts. Carytown boasts more the 250 shops, with everything from big name clothing stores to local boutiques and craft shops. You’ll find dozens of restaurants, cafés and bakeries, so there are plenty of choices when it’s time for a lunch break. Carytown is also home to the Byrd Theatre, a national historic landmark that is still in daily operation. Stop in to catch second-run movies for only $2.
Practical Info
Carytown is a neighborhood in west Richmond, near the Museum and Fan Districts. It’s bordered by VA-195 to the south and west, Ellwood Ave. and S. Boulevard to the north and east, respectively. You can park on the street or find free lots at either Crenshaw and Dooley or Sheppard and Colonial.
Address: Richmond, Virginia 21221, USA
Hours: Most shops open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., though some also open Sundays or have extended hours during holiday seasons.
From $ 65
Carrollton
Talk to a local about Carrollton and they’ll give you directions to one of New Orleans’s signature neighborhoods in the Garden District. Because while Carrollton is commonly known as a street, it was once its very own town, completely independent of the greater city of New Orleans. Yes, Carrollton was destined to be annexed by New Orleans in the early 20th century, but the Carrollton of yesteryear and the Carrollton of today both boast the picturesque Oak Street as its “Main Street” and offer guests a unique view into one of the beating hearts of New Orleans’s cultural hotbeds.
With a laid-back feel and beautiful architecture throughout, Carrollton is an attraction just walking through – though you needn’t take the sidewalk if you don’t want to: The St. Charles Line Street Car takes you into Carrollton by way of St. Charles Ave. Exploring Carrollton means discovering Queen-Anne and Victorian homes, oak-lined streets, and restaurants catering to all budgets. While you’re here, don’t miss Riverbend, Audubon Park, or the Maple Street Bookshop – these are some New Orleans favorites.
With a laid-back feel and beautiful architecture throughout, Carrollton is an attraction just walking through – though you needn’t take the sidewalk if you don’t want to: The St. Charles Line Street Car takes you into Carrollton by way of St. Charles Ave. Exploring Carrollton means discovering Queen-Anne and Victorian homes, oak-lined streets, and restaurants catering to all budgets. While you’re here, don’t miss Riverbend, Audubon Park, or the Maple Street Bookshop – these are some New Orleans favorites.
Address: Carrollton, New Orleans, USA
From $ 70
Banyan Drive
Set back a block from Hilo’s coastline are scores of towering and sprawling banyan trees with their thick and unique trunks. Similar trees can be found throughout the state, but what makes these fifty specimens unique is their planters. Between 1933 and 1972, many famous celebrities, political figures, authors and Hawaiians personally planted or dedicated these banyan seedlings as a way to commemorate their visit or honor friends. In front of the Hilo Hawaiian hotel, a particularly large road-shading tree has a small sign indicating it was planted by George Herman “Babe” Ruth, and across Banyan Drive are trees planted by King George V, Queen Elizabeth and Richard Nixon. Other famous names visible on placards along the leafy corridor are Franklin Roosevelt, movie star Cecil B. DeMille and his wife Constance, Amelia Earhart, volcanologist Dr. Thomas Jaggar (whose name is given to the Jaggar Museum at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park) and musician Louis Armstrong. Perhaps even more remarkable is the fact that the many of the trees here have persevered through three city-devastating tsunamis. Giant waves swept through Hilo in 1946, 1960 and 1975, and though these trees were not lost, a combined 222 people were.
Practical Info
Banyan Drive is located directly off downtown Hilo’s main drag, Kamehameha Avenue. It’s the second left turn over the bridge after Bayfront Park as you’re heading toward the airport, and across from the popular Ken’s House of Pancakes. You can also access it via Lihiwai Street. The Hilo Seaside Hotel, the Hilo Naniloa and the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel are all set along Banyan Drive, which forms a loop that also holds access to Coconut Island and the Liliuokalani Gardens. The loop’s interior encloses the Naniloa Volcanoes Golf Club and it’s said that trees on the course grounds may have also had famous planters, though they do not bear plaques.
Address: Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawaii, USA, USA
From $ 99
Downtown Nashville
Music City’s lively downtown doesn’t disappoint. Nashville’s entertainment hub is home to a who’s who of restaurants, hotels, and cultural hot spots, including the Frist Art Museum, Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. After dark, live music takes over the bars of Honky Tonk Highway.
The Basics
With so many attractions packed in, Downtown Nashville deserves a prominent spot on any itinerary in the city. While the neighborhood is easily explored on foot, you can also hop in a horse and carriage for a tour of attractions like the Johnny Cash Museum and Tennessee State Capitol. Night owls can experience the best of downtown aboard a BYOB open-air party bus as it cruises through Lower Broadway and Downtown Nashville.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Downtown Nashville is a must-visit for music buffs, night owls, and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a fair amount of walking.
- Bring some cash for buying drinks and tipping at the downtown bars; it’s faster than paying by card.
- Some downtown venues charge a cover in the evenings, though most of the honky-tonks are free.
How to Get There
While Downtown Nashville is best experienced with a car, those who’d rather skip the rental can take the bus to Music City Central station or the commuter train to Riverfront Station to find themselves in the heart of the downtown action.
When to Get There
To get a feel for Downtown Nashville, plan to visit during the day to take in the cultural attractions and again at night to experience the famous nightlife. There’s live music pretty much every night of the week, but it’s a good idea to take a look at who’s playing beforehand and get tickets, if necessary.
Printer’s Alley
Printer’s Alley Historic District is located in Downtown Nashville, once the center of the city’s printing industry during the early 1900s; both The Tennessean and the Nashville Banner once had their offices here. By the 1940s, the alley was a hot spot for live music; clubs and saloons hosted acts such as Hank Williams, Jimi Hendrix, and The Supremes. It remains one of the best live music spots in a city known for its music.
Address: Nashville, Tennessee, USA, USA
From $ 30
Carowinds
Straddling the border between North and South Carolina the Carowinds theme park south of Charlotte fuses southern charm and fast-paced thrill rides. The nearly 400-acre lot houses more than 60 rides and is divided into eight Carolina-themed sections including the (new for 2016) Carolina Harbor, one of the largest waterparks in the region with a wave pool, a lazy river that crosses the state line that bisects the park, kiddie pools and numerous slides and water rides.
A looped path takes visitors past Planet Snoopy’s little kids’ rides, the massive Intimidator coaster inspired by southern race car drivers, the Dinosaurs Alive park – a forest filled with more than 30 animatronic ancient beasts – a 3D theater that hosts regular battles between zombies and plants, traditional fair rides, the inverting stand-up coaster called the Vortex and other thrill rides including the new Fury 325 coaster. The Fury 325 coaster soars 325 feet off the ground before dropping down at speeds of 95 miles per hour; it was the tallest giga-coaster in the world when it was unveiled in 2015.
Under the Cedar Fair umbrella that also owns Cedar Point, Carowinds is a well-oiled machine that shares many features with the other parks in its brand. Expect the sounds of carnival music, shrieking children and southern summer heat while waiting your turn in the regularly long lines.
Practical Info
The park opens in mid-April and stays open with limited hours through October with its Scarowinds Halloween events. The Carolina Harbor waterpark has daily hours from June through August. The park’s hours vary throughout the season. Admission includes the regular park rides as well as the Carolina Harbor waterpark and is $62.99 at the gate or $42.99 if purchased in advance online. Two-day passes, Fast Lane passes that allow riders to skip long queues, and tickets for half day park entry (after 4 p.m.) are also available.
Address: 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA 28273, USA
Admission: At the gate: $62.99; Advance purchase online: $42.99
From $ 30
Carpenters' Hall
Carpenters’ Hall is an important structure, both historically and architecturally speaking. Built for and still owned by America’s oldest craft guild, the site was added to the list of National Historic Landmarks in 1970. The guild was founded in 1724 and opened its first meeting location her on Chestnut Street, just a few hundred feet from Benjamin Franklin’s home.
The site has welcomed a number of dignitaries throughout its history, including President Václav Havel from the Czech Republic, U.S. President George W. Bush, U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger and King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden. In addition to the important meetings held here, the structure itself is worthy of a mention. It’s a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, represented by the building’s usage of Flemish bond brick pattern, cupola and windows.
Practical Info
Carpenters’ Hall is open Tuesday through Sunday from March to December, and from Wednesday to Sunday in January and February. Daily hours are 10am until 4pm.
Address: 320 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
From $ 19
Downtown Historic District
Centered on Pershing Square, this condensed collection of city blocks once comprised the most glamorous commercial area in Los Angeles; after a decade’s worth of rejuvenation efforts, it has once again become a desirable destination. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it encompasses the Broadway Theater District, the Old Spring Street Financial District and Bunker Hill.
Crowned by the gilded Art Deco splendor of the Biltmore Hotel, buildings like the Los Angeles Central Library (a columnar fusion of Art Deco and ancient Egypt), Grand Central Market (the oldest food market in the city); and the Bradbury Building (built in 1893 and famed for its Victorian interior) make this one of the most architecturally significant swaths of L.A. Also home to Angels Flight, a funicular billed as the world’s shortest railway, elegant MacGuire Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), you could spend half a day or more exploring the core of Downtown.
Crowned by the gilded Art Deco splendor of the Biltmore Hotel, buildings like the Los Angeles Central Library (a columnar fusion of Art Deco and ancient Egypt), Grand Central Market (the oldest food market in the city); and the Bradbury Building (built in 1893 and famed for its Victorian interior) make this one of the most architecturally significant swaths of L.A. Also home to Angels Flight, a funicular billed as the world’s shortest railway, elegant MacGuire Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), you could spend half a day or more exploring the core of Downtown.
Practical Info:
Every Saturday at 10 a.m., docents from the Los Angeles Conservancy lead
2 ½-hour tours of the District ($10 for adults, $5 for kids 12 and
under), meeting in the middle of Pershing Square.
Address: Los Angeles, CA, USA
From $ 79
Casco Bay
An inlet on Maine’s southern coast, Casco Bay is a rich maritime area spotted with lighthouses, historic forts, and seven small islands. Calm conditions make Casco Bay an ideal spot for boating, sailing, and kayaking, while the islands each have their own unique communities to explore.
The Basics
Keep an eye out for birds, seals, and the occasional whale while you hike along the coast, sail through the harbor, or hop on the ferry to visit Casco Bay’s seven accessible islands.
Most bay tours leave from nearby Portland, Maine’s capital city, and sometimes include a city tour along with a coastal sightseeing excursion. You can also opt for a private charter vessel in order to see Casco Bay’s lighthouses and historic forts at your own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Casco Bay is a must-see for nature and history lovers.
- With relatively calm water conditions and multiple islands to explore, Casco Bay is a great destination for families with kids.
- Remember to bring comfortable shoes and sun protection.
- It’s a good idea to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in this coastal region.
- Ferries from Portland to the islands in Casco Bay are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Casco Bay is located just north of Portland, Maine. Ferries operate daily between Portland and the islands of Casco Bay, and private charter vessels travel through the harbor as well.
When to Get There
You can visit Casco Bay year-round, but summer is a lovely time, when the days are usually sunny and warm. Head out onto the water at dusk to see colorful sunsets over the bay.
The Casco Bay Islands
Don’t miss Peaks Island, which is home to beaches, restaurants, and an art community, while Long Island is known for its hiking trails and conservation areas. Bailey Island is also a good hiking spot, while Diamond Cove (located on Great Diamond Island) is home to Fort McKinley—a structure designed to defend Portland Harbor during the Spanish-American War.
Address: Portland, Maine, USA
From $ 24
Downtown Aquarium
Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is a fun and educational attraction, especially for families. Children can get up close and personal with more than 200 types of underwater creatures, including myriad fish, eels, rays in a touch tank, sharks, and white tigers. Kids also love the amusement rides and dining in the underwater aquarium restaurant.
The Basics
This 500,000-gallon (1.89-million-liter) complex takes you through a network of tanks all organized with a different theme. You might enjoy seeing a replica of a 17th-century shipwreck reef teeming with fish or riding through the Shark Voyage tunnel. Another add-on ticket option includes petting stingrays in the aquarium’s touch tanks. End your visit with a peek at the two resident white tigers housed in a replica Maharaja’s temple and a spin on some of the amusement rides. If you’ve worked up an appetite, consider a meal in the aquarium restaurant—and dine next to colorful fish swimming in floor-to-ceiling tanks.
You can get single tickets for individual attractions in the complex, or make a day of it with an All-Day Adventure Pass, which includes admission to the Aquarium Adventure Exhibit and Stingray Reef plus unlimited amusement rides. Combination tickets are available that provide entry to the Downtown Aquarium along with other Houston area attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Houston aquarium is a great activity for families with young kids.
- If you plan to enjoy the outdoor attractions, remember to bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Skip the line with a Houston CityPASS—cardholders enter through a dedicated line.
- The Downtown Aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Downtown Aquarium is located on Bagby Street between Preston Street and Memorial Drive, just east of US 45 (Gulf Freeway) in downtown Houston. The city’s bus service stops at Preston and Bagby. If driving, paid parking is available in the downtown lot next to the aquarium complex.
When to Get There
Houston’s aquarium is open every day of the year from 10am; it closes at 8:30pm Sunday through Thursday and 10pm on Friday and Saturday. To beat the crowds, visit early or late in the day, even an hour or two before closing—you can get through the main aquarium fairly quickly. Expect throngs on weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
Ride the Train Under the Sharks
For added fun, spring for a train ticket that takes you through the Downtown Aquarium’s Shark Voyage, a tunnel through a 200,000-gallon (757,000-liter) tank filled with sharks swimming overhead. There are several outdoor attractions worth exploring, too, plus amusement rides including a 100-foot (30.5-meter) Ferris wheel and an aquatic carousel.
Address: 410 Bagby St, Houston, TX 77002, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Barnes Foundation
Philadelphia is a city that’s home to both art and history. Few places showcase the connection between the two like the Barnes Foundation. This world-class museum houses a large collection of Modern paintings and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from artists like Renoir, Cezanne and Picasso.
Travelers can wander the galleries filled with iconic works and tour the collection of smaller rooms that are reflective of the original Barnes estate. The museum also offers travelers easy access to the nearby park and the city’s waterfront, which is the perfect place for an evening skyline stroll.
Practical Info
The Barnes Foundation is located at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. It is closed Tuesdays. Admission is $22 for adults on weekdays and $25 on weekends. The first Sunday of every month is free to visitors. The foundation has extended hours, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Travelers can take the SEPTA or the 7, 32, 33, 38 or 48 bus routes.
Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA 19130, USA
Hours: Open 10am-5pm Wed-Mon
Admission: Weekdays: $22; Weekends: $25
From $ 32
Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown Las Vegas thrived as the city’s gambling district until the 1980s when new resorts and casinos pulled the crowds away from the area toward the Strip, the city’s main thoroughfare today. After a period of neglect, Downtown has seen revitalization over the past few years, transforming it into a Las Vegas cultural and entertainment hub in its own right.
The Basics
Downtown’s famed Fremont Street is still home to historic casinos such as the Golden Nugget and El Cortez, as well as the Fremont Street Experience, a multisensory light and sound show using more than two million lights and the world’s largest audio-video system. Downtown’s Arts District is home to several art galleries, studios, and stores, and there are also museums scattered around the neighborhood, including the Natural History Museum, Mob Museum, and Neon Museum.
Downtown Las Vegas is best explored on foot, the better to soak up the sights and sounds of the historic district. Guided walking tours introduce visitors to the history and culture of the area, as well as its quirky side. Food tours include tasting stops at a handful of notable restaurants in addition to neighborhood exploration. Alternatively, pick up a bicycle from the bike share in front of Container Park and explore independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fans of mid-century modern-style architecture flock to downtown Las Vegas to soak up the “classic Vegas” era feeling.
- Fremont Street’s light shows take place on the hour every hour from early evening through early morning.
- Casinos in downtown Las Vegas are open 24/7.
How to Get There
Downtown Las Vegas is located just north of the Las Vegas Strip, bordered by I-15 on the west, Washington Avenue on the north, Maryland Parkway on the east, and Sahara Avenue on the south. Cars can reach it via Interstate 15 and Route 95. The Deuce bus service runs from Mandalay Bay on the Strip to Fremont Street, stopping at resorts along the way.
When to Get There
Fremont Street comes alive with light shows and live entertainment every night of the week, but especially so on Friday and Saturday. There’s plenty to see and do during the day (galleries, museums, and stores) but nighttime, when the neon lights are lit, is the busiest.
The Neon Museum
Las Vegas is well-known for its neon signage, but in the 1990s, LED and LCD screens began replacing neon. In response, local preservationists saved neon signs in what was called the Neon Boneyard. Now, these symbols of the city’s heydey are honored at the Neon Museum, with more than 150 signs. Just north of downtown, the museum’s visitor’s center is in the renovated La Concha Motel lobby, a famed seashell-shaped, mid-century modern building.
Address: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
From $ 35
Barboursville Vineyards
The vineyards at Barboursville surround an 18th century estate that once belonged to James Barbour, the governor of Virginia (for which the area is named.) They are inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s nearby Monticello estate, who in fact designed the stately mansion.
The grounds were once farmland deemed unworthy of making wine, until an Italian man purchased the property and brought with him his family’s winemaking legacy. Wines are still created in a European style. Today the star of the vineyards is undoubtedly its Cabernet Franc, served both in its tasting room and with culinary pairings in its Library 1821 building.
Other varietals depend upon the year, though the vineyard has made Nebbiolo, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and others throughout the years. Tours grant insight into the history of the estate and the winemaking process, as well as the story of the vineyards’ signature wine.
Practical Info
Barboursville is a 30 minute drive from Charlottesville, 1.25 hours from Richmond, or 2 hours from Washington D.C. Tours take place on weekends only from 12 to 4pm. Tastings take place in the Tuscan Tasting Room every day. The entire estate is open to the public, and bringing a picnic is highly recommended.
Address: 17655 Winery Rd, Barboursville, Virginia, USA
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Free to visit; Tastings are $7
From $ 250
Carroll Gardens
A gracefully gentrified neighborhood in South Brooklyn, Carroll Gardens was originally considered part of more working-class Red Hook, just a few blocks to the south across the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. First settled by Dutch farmers, then Irish, Italian and Norwegian merchants, and now a combination of French immigrants, American yuppies and aging couples, this evolving area retains traces of all its past inhabitants. Most renowned for what it has preserved, Carroll Gardens today is increasingly full of independent-owned cafes, boutiques and antique stores, most set along Smith Street.
Named for Charles Carroll, a Revolutionary War hero and senator from Maryland and the only Roman Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence, the neighborhood is centered on tree-lined Carroll Park. Around and near the park is the Carroll Gardens Historic District, comprised of 19th-century brownstones with elaborate gardens out front.
Named for Charles Carroll, a Revolutionary War hero and senator from Maryland and the only Roman Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence, the neighborhood is centered on tree-lined Carroll Park. Around and near the park is the Carroll Gardens Historic District, comprised of 19th-century brownstones with elaborate gardens out front.
Practical Info:
Head south for two blocks to reach Van Brunt Street, a major
thoroughfare dotted with cafes, galleries and shops, and head left on
Van Brunt for about a quarter mile. Turn right onto 1st Place, cross
carefully over the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (which appears at this
stretch as a major residential street rather than a highway) and head up
four blocks to Smith Street.
Another fun way to get here is via the IKEA Express Shuttle. Running seven days a week from Pier 11 at South Street Seaport, this $5 boat ride across the East River passes Grosvenor Island and the Statue of Liberty before depositing you at the IKEA Superstore in Red Hook.
Another fun way to get here is via the IKEA Express Shuttle. Running seven days a week from Pier 11 at South Street Seaport, this $5 boat ride across the East River passes Grosvenor Island and the Statue of Liberty before depositing you at the IKEA Superstore in Red Hook.
Address: USA
From $ 58