Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa
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Old Koloa Town
Beneath the shade of monkeypod trees, the red clapboard downtown strip of Old Koloa Town welcomes visitors to a bygone era, the former site of Koloa Plantation. Founded in 1835 by New England missionaries, Koloa was the largest sugar plantation in a statewide industry credited with encouraging immigrants from around the world to make Hawaii home. Today the strip—accessed through a mile-long tree tunnel of towering eucalyptus—is a tiny community of gift shops, ice cream parlors, galleries and restaurants, each with a building plaque describing its original purpose on the plantation.
Besides shopping there’s the Old Koloa Jodo Mission, a still-functioning Buddhist temple originally founded to serve the Japanese immigrant community; a semi-circular bronze sculpture depicting plantation workers; an old stone chimney left over from one of the plantation buildings; and the Koloa History Center set back along the Waikomo Stream running through downtown. The center includes indoor and outdoor historical artifacts including a vintage sewing machine, an antique gas pump, farm equipment, historical photographs and displays. Every summer for nine days, the town celebrates its heritage with parades, food and craft booths, outdoor movies, a paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) rodeo and guided educational walks.
Practical Info
Old Koloa Town is a jaunt north of southerly Poipu Beach, or about a 10-mile drive west from Lihue. Downtown shops and the Old Koloa Town History Center open around 9 a.m. The Koloa Plantation Days event usually runs over the course of a week in mid-July.
Address: Koloa Rd, Koloa, Hawaii 96756, USA
From $ 270
Old City Hall
Old City Hall was used by the first US Supreme Court from 1791 to 1800, when Philadelphia was briefly the nation’s capital. After the federal government moved to Washington DC, the building was occupied by Philadelphia’s city hall and mayor’s office. Today it’s maintained as a historic site, and visitors can see the restored courtroom.
The Basics
Old City Hall sits in the heart of Philadelphia’s Historic District, surrounded by the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Congress Hall. It was built in the Federal style, with distinctive red brick and a clock tower, which visitors can still see today. Most of the furnishings inside the old courtroom are from the time period, but not original to the room. Portraits of the first five Supreme Court justices can be seen in the Second Bank portrait gallery.
Visit Old City Hall independently or as part of a sightseeing tour of Philadelphia—on foot or by trolley. No admission fee is required, and park rangers are available to answer questions, though it’s worth taking a guided walking tour of the district to learn all of the history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Philadelphia’s Old City Hall is a must-see for history buffs.
- It’s located in Independence National Historic Park, and admission is free.
- Get there early to beat the crowds and avoid waiting in line.
- The building is accessible to wheelchairs through the west door.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Old City Hall, located at 5th and Chestnut streets in Philadelphia’s Historic District. Most visitors arrive as part of a sightseeing tour or by public transport—the Market–Frankford line and the Philly Phlash downtown loop stop nearby.
When to Get There
Old City Hall is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and there isn’t really a bad time to visit. Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds and avoid waiting in line, as entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. Old City Hall is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Philadelphia’s Historic District
While at Old City Hall, set aside some time to explore Philadelphia’s Old City Historic District, spanning from Front to 7th streets and from Vine to Lombard streets. Visit highlights such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Franklin Square, and Carpenters’ Hall. See beautifully restored 18th-century homes and take a stroll down Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street and a National Historic Landmark.
Address: 501 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, USA
From $ 19
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
One of three main airports in the San Francisco Bay Area (the others being San Francisco International Airport and San Jose International Airport), Oakland International Airport, or OAK, welcomes visitors on most major airlines in the U.S., as well as a few international airlines.
The Basics
Oakland International Airport is used as a hub for travelers arriving in Northern California, whether they're staying in the East Bay, traveling to San Francisco, or heading further north ot Napa and beyond. To skip the stress of navigating Bay Area traffic yourself, book a shared or private transfer and let a dedicated driver traverse the roadways.
Things to Know Before You Go
- OAK is home to just two terminals.
- Most airlines fly from Terminal 1, including Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, Hawaiian Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, British Airways, and American Airlines, while Terminal 2 houses just Southwest Airlines.
- The rental car center can be accessed via the rental car shuttle, which operates every 10 minutes except from 1:30am to 4:30am, when it's on-demand.
How to Get There
OAK is located 18 miles (29 kilometers) from downtown San Francisco—across the San Francisco Bay Bridge—and 8 miles (14 kilometers) from downtown Oakland. The airport can be reached via private or shuttle airport transfers. Alternatively, the Oakland airport is on the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) network, so you can travel between the airport and San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and other East Bay towns on this train line. Ride-sharing vehicles are also allowed to operate at the airport at specific locations.
Address: 1 Airport Drive, Oakland, California 94621, USA
From $ 45
Oak Alley Plantation
Famed for the 300-year-old allée of live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss that flank its main entrance, Oak Alley Plantation has more to offer visitors than a quintessential view of a Southern plantation. Oak Alley also boasts numerous exhibitions exploring the complexities of Southern and Louisiana history, 1,300 acres (526 hectares) of grounds, and the historic house itself—all within easy driving distance of New Orleans.
The Basics
No trip to New Orleans is complete without seeing one of the numerous plantations surrounding the city. Oak Alley Plantation is one of the more popular options, both for its exceptional exhibitions regarding slavery and the Civil War, its performances at the Sugarcane Theater, and its exceptional Greek Revival architecture. See the Big House and the well-curated grounds on the banks of the Mississippi River on a guided tour, many of which include round-trip transportation from New Orleans’ French Quarter. For a full-day trip from the Big Easy, combine a tour of Oak Alley with a Cajun swamp tour or a trip to some of the other surrounding plantations off the Great Mississippi River Road, including Laura Plantation and San Francisco Plantation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Oak Alley Plantation is located in the town of Vacherie, about 54 miles (87 kilometers) west of New Orleans.
- Summertime visitors should dress in light clothing with plenty of sun protection for the strong heat.
- Tours can run anywhere from four to nine hours long, depending on whether you combine Oak Alley with other nearby attractions in Cajun Country.
How to Get There
Because there is no public transportation to Oak Alley Plantation, the best way to get there is by car. Those with their own vehicles or rental cars will find the hour-long drive smooth and easy. Otherwise, the best way to visit is on a guided tour that includes transportation. You can also book a private transportation service in advance.
When to Get There
New Orleans and Cajun Country are famously hot and humid in the summertime; visit during the fall or spring for the best weather for walking around outdoors. Morning tours will have the coolest weather; tours after 3pm can expect the most intense heat.
Filming at Oak Alley Plantation
In addition to boasting the status as one of the most photographed plantations in the South, Oak Alley gained fame as a filming location for Interview with a Vampire, Primary Colors, and 1978’s Nightrider.
Address: 3645 Louisiana 18, Vacherie, LA 70090, USA
Hours: Nov-Feb: Mon-Fri 9am - 4:30pm, Sat-Sun 9am - 5pm. Mar-Oct: Daily 9am - 5pm.
Admission: Adult $22, Youth $8.00, Child $5.00
From $ 60
Old Settlers' Cemetery
Located in Charlotte’s Fourth Ward neighborhood, Old Settlers’ Cemetery is where many of the area’s first settlers are buried. It was the first cemetery owned and operated by the City of Charlotte, and its gravestones and monuments carry dates from 1776 (the year the Declaration of Independence was signed) to 1884. It’s a great American site in Charlotte for visiting history buffs.
Practical Info
Old Settlers’ Cemetery is located next to the First Presbyterian Church on West 5th Street. It’s often described as more like a park than cemetery and is a popular stopping point for folks who visit the historic Fourth Ward neighborhood.
Address: Charlotte, North Carolina 28202, USA
From $ 60
Oak Creek Canyon
The road that winds 16 miles (26 kilometers) through leafy Oak Creek Canyon is the most scenic route between Sedona and Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon. With dramatic red rock formations to either side, the gorge is an outdoor playground for camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
The Basics
A scenic drive through beautiful Oak Creek Canyon is well worth the effort whether or not you actually need to travel north from Sedona. Grand Canyon day trips from Sedona pass through the gorge, as do small-group tours of the Sedona area (along with visits to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Airport Mesa) and multi-day itineraries through Arizona.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Oak Creek Canyon is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and photographers.
- Plan ahead: The drive is lovely but there aren’t many places to pull off and enjoy the scenery.
- Be sure to bring along sun protection and plenty of drinking water, as it’s easy to get dehydrated in the arid climate.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces if you plan to get out of the car and explore.
How to Get There
Arizona State Route 89A runs through Oak Creek Canyon from Sedona to just outside Flagstaff. Driving allows for the chance to stop at your leisure to take in the natural beauty, while a guided day tour around Sedona or to the Grand Canyon eliminates the hassle of having to rent a car.
When to Get There
Oak Creek Canyon is stunning year-round, so deciding when to visit is largely a matter of preference. Hikers come to enjoy the desert wildflowers from March to May, while summer brings temperatures warm enough for swimming at Slide Rock State Park or Grasshopper Point. The canyon is particularly impressive in autumn when the oaks amid the evergreen forest display their fall foliage.
Hiking in Oak Creek Canyon
This area of Sedona has hiking trails for just about every ability level. The most popular route is the 6-mile (10-kilometer) round trip along the West Fork of Oak Creek, where the canyon walls rise up more than 200 feet on either side at points.
Address: Oak Creek Canyon, AZ, USA
From $ 48
Old Burying Point Cemetery
Also known as the Charter Street Cemetery, the Old Burying Point of Salem is the second oldest burying ground in the United States. It is estimated to date back to 1637. Victims of the infamous Salem With Trials were convicted nearby to the site. Jonathan Corwin and Jonathan Hawthorne, who were both Salem witch trial judges, are also buried here.
As Salem was once a major shipping port for “the New World,” this cemetery is particularly historic. A Mayflower pilgrim, one of the first to enter the United States, was claimed to be put to rest here. The grave of former governor Samuel Bradstreet can also be found. The old tombstones remain in tact and uniquely carved from the 1600s, presenting a bit of history that has been preserved since that time. A visit is an opportunity to learn about colonial era history, including burial practices and the lives of some of the important figures laid to rest here.
Practical Info
The Old Burying Point cemetery is located on Charter Street in central Salem. It open from dawn to dusk and is free to visit. Visitors are asked to act respectfully.
Address: Charter Street, Salem, Massachusetts, USA
Hours: Dawn to dusk
From $ 12
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
The Old Exchange is one of the oldest structures in Charleston, a famous city landmark, and one of the most historically significant buildings in the United States. Once the site of important political events, the building is now open to the public for fascinating tours, including a walk-through of its haunted Provost Dungeon.
The Basics
From banquets with George Washington to the ratification of the South Carolina Constitution, the Old Exchange has witnessed a significant chunk of Charleston and US history. Today the popular landmark’s exhibits showcase Charleston’s early days through artifacts, paintings, and documents—part of the original Charleston seawall is a visitor favorite—and museum docents dressed in period clothing are available to answer questions.
Admission includes a self-guided tour of the top two floors and a 25-minute guided tour of the Provost Dungeon. Alternatively, pick up a combo ticket that includes access to the Old Slave Mart Museum, or a Charleston Tour Pass for entry to this and up to 30 other attractions. Many sightseeing tours of the city pass by the building, and some include time for a visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon are a must for first-time visitors to Charleston, especially history buffs.
- Plan to spend roughly an hour exploring the sight.
- Children under the age of 6 are free, and there are discounts for seniors, teachers, students, and military.
- The Old Exchange is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Old Exchange is located at the intersection of East Bay and Broad streets in the heart of downtown Charleston. It is easy an easy walk or bike ride from most downtown locations. If driving, note that parking can be challenging; consider a nearby parking garage.
When to Get There
The Old Exchange is open daily from 9am to 5pm with the exception of major holidays. Tours begin every half hour starting at 9:30am. If you’re visiting Charleston in the summertime, keep in mind that the Old Exchange is air-conditioned and can provide a welcome break from the heat.
The Provost Dungeon
During the American Revolution, British soldiers converted the bottom floor of the Exchange building into a prison. It is rumored that the ghosts of these prisoners—including American prisoners of war, British soldiers, and enslaved people—still linger in the Provost Dungeon today, but only a Charleston ghost tour that includes a visit to the Old Exchange can let you know for certain.
Address: 122 East Bay Street, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 20
Ocean Beach Pier
Between the South Mission Jetty and Pacific Beach Point stretch 3 miles (5 kilometers) of pure, unadulterated sun-kissed southern California beach scene. The center of this scene is Ocean Beach Pier, the largest concrete pier on the West Coast, perfect for strolling, fishing, and just watching the waves.
Amid the swimsuit-clad crowd and the anglers, Ocean Beach Pier invites people-watching. Along the pier, you’ll find a café, benches, and bait and tackle shops should you want to try your luck with the fish. Under the pier, skillful surfers slalom the pilings.
Ocean Beach Pier is part of Ocean Beach, San Diego’s most bohemian seaside community. You can get tattooed, shop for antiques, and walk into a restaurant barefoot. Ocean Front Walk bristles with joggers, in-line skaters and cyclists. Back from the beach, Mission Boulevard consists of block after block of surf shops, burger joints, and beer busts.
Practical Info
Ocean Beach Pier lies southwest of downtown San Diego, just across the San Diego River from SeaWorld. The area is best accessed by car. After you visit Ocean Beach Pier, spend some time strolling Ocean Beach.
If you’re here on a Wednesday afternoon, stop by the Ocean Beach farmers market.
Address: 1950 Abbott Street, San Diego, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 79
Ocean Drive
The breathtaking Rhode Island shoreline unfolds along Ocean Drive, a 10-mile (16-kilometer) scenic road along Newport’s southern coast. Points of interest include the New York Yacht Club, Fort Adams State Park, Hammersmith Farm (where President Kennedy had his wedding reception in 1953), Brenton Point State Park, and Gooseberry Beach.
The Basics
A drive along this stretch of road, also known as Ten Mile Drive, is a must for anyone visiting Newport. While most travelers explore the area by car, hopping in and out at the various points of interest along the way, it’s also possible to ride along the road aboard an open-sided trolley. Many of these tours also drive down Bellevue Avenue, giving passengers the chance to see Newport’s famous mansions as well. Visitors based in Boston can see the highlights of Newport, including Ocean Drive, on a day trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ocean Drive is a must-see for first-time visitors, photographers, and nature lovers.
- The drive itself takes less than 30 minutes, but give yourself several hours to stop and explore points of interest along the way.
- Combine your trip along Ocean Drive with a visit to one of the Newport mansions, such as The Breakers, The Elms, or Marble House.
How to Get There
The easiest place to start an exploration of Ten Mile Drive is from the southern terminus of Bellevue Avenue at the intersection of Ocean and Coggeshall avenues. The best way to explore the scenic road is by car.
When to Get There
Ocean Drive is spectacular no matter the season, though you’ll share the road with far fewer cars if you plan to visit between September and May. You can swim at some of the quiet beaches along the drive in August and September.
Brenton Point State Park
Set at the midpoint of Ocean Drive, this state park offers one of the best views on the East Coast. It’s a popular pullover spot for picnicking, hiking, and kite flying while soaking up the Atlantic Ocean views.
Address: Ocean Ave and Coggleshall Ave, Newport, RI, USA
From $ 25
Old Faithful
Named for its frequent and predictable eruptions, Old Faithful is the gold standard of geysers and the star attraction of Yellowstone National Park. The steaming, multicolored pool puts on a show every 60 to 120 minutes, when it shoots boiling water up to 180 feet (55 meters) into the air.
The Basics
Most tours of Yellowstone National Park stop by Old Faithful to see one of the geyser’s spectacular eruptions. Day trips to Yellowstone can last up to 13 hours and typically leave from Jackson or Jackson Hole, and visit Old Faithful along with park highlights such as Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Small-group tours offer a personalized experience, while self-guided tours are also available if you want to explore the park at your own pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Faithful is a must-see for nature lovers and first-time visitors to Yellowstone National Park.
- You can find predicted eruption times in the adjacent visitor center.
- The geyser-viewing area is one of Yellowstone’s most accessible destinations, with bench seating, a large parking lot, and a ranger station.
How to Get There
Old Faithful is located in Yellowstone’s Upper Geyser Basin, in the southwest section of the park. The geyser is roughly a 50-minute drive from West Yellowstone, and 80 minutes from Mammoth Hot Springs and the park’s southern entrance.
When to Get There
You can visit Old Faithful from May to October, although summer is the most popular time. To beat the crowds, consider visiting in the early morning or in the moments just before dusk. If the eruption schedule aligns with sunrise, be sure to set an alarm so you can watch Old Faithful spout water at dawn.
Yellowstone’s Hot Springs and Geysers
There are more geysers in Yellowstone than any other place in the world. To visit the park’s geysers, enter through the West Entrance and continue to Madison, the jumping-off point for geyser basins to the north and south. The Lower Geyser Basin, which includes Fountain Paint Pot, and the Upper Geyser Basin, home to Old Faithful, are both to the south. The Mammoth Hot Springs and Steamboat geysers are in the Norris Geyser Basin to the north.
Address: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 65
Octagon House
One of the first homes ever built in the nation’s capital, the historic Federal-style Octagon House was designed in 1799 by William Thornton for wealthy Virginia landowner Colonel John Tayloe III. During the War of 1812, Tayloe volunteered the house as a French embassy in order to save it from destruction, and two years later, when the White House was set ablaze by the British, he offered it to President James Madison as a temporary executive mansion. Madison used a second-floor room of the house as his study, and it was here that he signed the 1815 peace treaty that ended the war with England.
Madison and his wife, Dolley, moved back into the White House in 1817, and Tayloe and his family lived on at Octagon House until 1855. Later used as a Union hospital in the Civil War, the building had fallen into decay by 1899, when the American Institute of Architects purchased it for use as its headquarters. Established as a museum in 1970 and featuring historical photos of, memorabilia from, and plans for famous American buildings, it’s now open just two days a week for self-guided tours.
Practical Information
There is limited, two-hour street parking around the Octagon, but the
museum is near two Metrorail stations: Foggy Bottom-GWU (serving the
Orange and Blue Lines) and Farragut North (serving the Red Line).
Address: 1799 New York Ave NW, Washington DC 20006, USA
Hours: Self-guided tours Thurs–Fri 1–4pm
From $ 20
Old Sacramento
A US National Historic Landmark District, Old Sacramento sits on the east bank of the Sacramento River and offers a glimpse of California history dating back to the Gold Rush and early days of the railroad. Occupying 28 acres (11 hectares), this area offers historical architecture, museums, and activities.
The Basics
Visitors to Old Sacramento explore dozens of attractions, including the California State Railroad Museum, Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento History Museum, and the Pony Express Monument. Activities include horse and carriage rides and the Suspects Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre aboard the Delta King Riverboat, which has been converted into a hotel. This area also offers plenty of saloons, restaurants, and shops. A selection of tours are run by the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Sacramento is ideal for families and history buffs.
- The visitors’ center on 2nd Street offers information about Old Sacramento and the greater region.
- The district spans 8 blocks, so wear comfortable shoes.
How to Get There
Old Sacramento is located right off Interstate 5 (take the J Street exit) and a couple of blocks from the Sacramento Valley Amtrak station. It’s easily accessible for visitors arriving by train or by car. The Sacramento River Bike Trail runs along the waterfront.
When to Get There
Old Sacramento’s shops are generally open from late morning to early evening. Most eateries offer lunch and dinner, and several stay open until late. The area’s signature event, Gold Rush Days, takes place on Labor Day weekend (early September). Other events include ghost tours during the days leading up to Halloween and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony to kick off the holiday season.
California State Capitol Museum
After exploring Old Sacramento, head 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) southeast to the California State Capitol Museum for additional insight into California’s heritage. Artwork, historical items, and memorials are on display in the 19th-century building and its tree-filled Capitol Park.
Address: 922 2nd Street, Sacramento, California, USA
From $ 15
Old Florida Museum
Reenact what it was like to be a settler of Florida at the Old Florida Museum in Fort Menendez. The museum is set up to be interactive and guests will get the chance to dress up, play with props and interact with actors who are in character as people who lived in Florida during the 16th to 18th centuries. This is a great attraction for kids and adults who will also enjoy the historical aspects as you learn more about the settling of St Augustine and the surrounding area.
While visiting, you’ll get the chance to dip candles, watch how a loom works, ground corn, make ropes, observe wood working and partake in several other activities from the era. In addition, there are colonial games set up that will further teach your family about the history of the area. There is also an onsite gift shop selling items that are similar to the ones you’ll encounter while touring the Old Florida Museum.
Practical Info
Old Florida Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult ticket prices are $11 and prices for children ages 3 to 18 are $8. Children under 3 are free. Old Florida Museum is located at 259 San Marco Avenue in St Augustine.
Address: 259 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, Florida 34084, USA
Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults $11; Children 3-18 $8
From $ 28
Old Post Office Pavilion
Designed by American architect Willoughby Edbrooke, this enormous Romanesque Revival building was the largest office building in D.C. when it opened in 1899. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it was far from beloved in its own era. Considered dowdy by the time it opened for business, when architectural fashion had turned to rounded, more romantic Beaux-Arts design, it was soon abandoned in favor of a new mail depot building over by Union Station; 15 years after it was built, it was commonly referred to as the “old” post office.
By the late 1920s, popular sentiment in Washington was that the building should be torn down, but the Great Depression prevented the demolition; instead, the Old Post Office was left to molder for about 40 years. In the 1970s, it was saved by community support and the National Endowment for the Arts, which now has its headquarters here; in addition to a few other government agencies, the Pavilion houses several restaurants, eateries, shops and services.
Free tours of the Pavilion’s 315-foot clock tower, which offers 360-degree views of downtown Washington, are given daily by National Park Service Rangers; tours meet by the glass elevators on the Pavilion’s stage level.
Despite its modern-day popularity, the Pavilion has proved a financial liability for the city. In 2012, real estate developer (and reality show star) Donald Trump announced he’d been approved to renovate the Pavilion into the Trump International Hotel Washington, D.C., which will include 250 hotel rooms, a conference center, a spa, restaurants and a museum dedicated to the building's history.
By the late 1920s, popular sentiment in Washington was that the building should be torn down, but the Great Depression prevented the demolition; instead, the Old Post Office was left to molder for about 40 years. In the 1970s, it was saved by community support and the National Endowment for the Arts, which now has its headquarters here; in addition to a few other government agencies, the Pavilion houses several restaurants, eateries, shops and services.
Free tours of the Pavilion’s 315-foot clock tower, which offers 360-degree views of downtown Washington, are given daily by National Park Service Rangers; tours meet by the glass elevators on the Pavilion’s stage level.
Despite its modern-day popularity, the Pavilion has proved a financial liability for the city. In 2012, real estate developer (and reality show star) Donald Trump announced he’d been approved to renovate the Pavilion into the Trump International Hotel Washington, D.C., which will include 250 hotel rooms, a conference center, a spa, restaurants and a museum dedicated to the building's history.
Address: 1100 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington DC 20004, USA
From $ 40
Ocean Beach San Francisco
Running for 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) along San Francisco’s Pacific coast, Ocean Beach marks the western edge of the city. The wide shoreline attracts both locals and visitors for picnics, walks, beach bonfires, and beautiful sunsets. Though swimming isn’t common here (the water is cold), surfing is popular.
The Basics
Because it is located across the city from the main tourist areas, Ocean Beach may not be on every tourist’s itinerary. However, it’s easy to squeeze into your sightseeing schedule with activities like a Golden Gate Park bike tour, GoCar tour, or coastal walking tour. Also, Ocean Beach is convenient to a selection of attractions in this part of the city, including the Legion of Honor museum, Lands End, Sutro Baths, and San Francisco Zoo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring layers, as the wind and fog can appear suddenly on the coast, even if it’s warm and sunny when you arrive.
- Beach fires are permitted only in the fire rings and only from March through October.
- Glass and alcohol are not allowed on the beach.
- Surfing at Ocean Beach is not for beginners, as the waves are large and the current is very strong.
How to Get There
Starting at the Cliff House in the Outer Richmond neighborhood, Ocean Beach stretches south for 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers). By car, drive all the way west on Fulton Street or Lincoln Way until you reach the coast. Free parking lots are available; if they are full, there is street parking in the adjacent neighborhoods. By light rail, the N-Judah line ends just across Great Highway from the beach.
When to Get There
Sunset offers a tranquil atmosphere and the best photo opportunities as you watch the sun sink into the Pacific. The sunniest months with warmest temperatures are typically September and October. In July and August, the beach is usually blanketed in fog. The beach parking lots close at night.
Golden Gate Park
San Francisco’s biggest city park is adjacent to Ocean Beach and just a few blocks from the Cliff House. It’s convenient to visit all of these sights on the same day, though there’s a lot of ground to cover. Stretching nearly half the width of the city, Golden Gate Park features world-class museums, a golf course, lakes, bike trails, gardens and playgrounds, sports fields, two windmills, and even a bison paddock.
Address: Ocean Beach, San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 32
Old Executive Office Building
Located next to the White House, the Old Executive Office Building houses the majority of offices for the White House staff. The building dates back to 1871, when it housed the State, War, and Navy Departments. The imposing building is also known as the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.
The Old Executive Office Building represents one of the best examples of French Second Empire architecture in the United States. Its unique style catches the eye, a contrast to the many somber classical revival buildings around the city. The building has played host to an incredible number of high-level events. It housed offices for Theodore and Franklin D. Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, Gerald Ford, and George Bush before they became President. Foreign dignitaries have met with the twenty-four Secretaries of State who have called this building home. The Old Executive Office Building is a must-see attraction in Washington DC.
Practical Info
The Old Executive Office Building is located at 17th Street and Pennsylvania Ave NW, immediately next to the West Wing. It is closest to the Farragut North metro stop on the red line or Farragut West on the blue line.
Address: 1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20504, USA
From $ 49
Oahu Cruise Port
Hawaii’s most populous island is home to big-name attractions like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, the Polynesian Cultural Center, Dole Pineapple Plantation and Diamond Head. Check out these sites on a shore excursion, or get out on the water with a submarine tour or surfing lesson.
If you want to explore Honolulu and the surrounding area on your own, rent a scooter to travel around in style.
How to get to Oahu
Ships dock in Honolulu, the state capital. You’ll pull in the harbor by the Aloha Tower Marketplace, where you can find cabs, rental car shuttles and the Waikiki Trolley Red Line.
One Day on Oahu
Before it gets too crowded, visit the sites of the Pearl Harbor complex, including the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Memorial and the USS Bowfin submarine memorial. The Japanese attack, which killed more than 2,000 people on December 7, 1941, is remembered through film, museum exhibits, artifacts, aircraft and personal stories.
Pearl Harbor will take up most of the morning, so head to Waikiki next to relax. Honolulu’s famous stretch of sand is home to high-rise hotels, Diamond Head crater and landmarks like the statue of Duke Kahanamoku, father of surfing. Visit Diamond Head’s observation deck for views of the coast, and then find the perfect spot on one of the several beaches to people watch and work on your tan – try Fort DeRussy Beach for snorkeling or Kuhio Beach for a calm swimming spot.
If you want to explore Honolulu and the surrounding area on your own, rent a scooter to travel around in style.
How to get to Oahu
Ships dock in Honolulu, the state capital. You’ll pull in the harbor by the Aloha Tower Marketplace, where you can find cabs, rental car shuttles and the Waikiki Trolley Red Line.
One Day on Oahu
Before it gets too crowded, visit the sites of the Pearl Harbor complex, including the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Memorial and the USS Bowfin submarine memorial. The Japanese attack, which killed more than 2,000 people on December 7, 1941, is remembered through film, museum exhibits, artifacts, aircraft and personal stories.
Pearl Harbor will take up most of the morning, so head to Waikiki next to relax. Honolulu’s famous stretch of sand is home to high-rise hotels, Diamond Head crater and landmarks like the statue of Duke Kahanamoku, father of surfing. Visit Diamond Head’s observation deck for views of the coast, and then find the perfect spot on one of the several beaches to people watch and work on your tan – try Fort DeRussy Beach for snorkeling or Kuhio Beach for a calm swimming spot.
Port Information
The currency in Hawaii is the US dollar. English is the official language, as is Hawaiian, which many locals speak, as well.
Address: Honolulu Harbor, Honolulu, HI, USA
From $ 36
Oak Creek Vista
Visitors to Oak Creek Canyon would be wise to stop at this scenic viewpoint for a bird’s eye view of the rolling Arizona landscape. A well-kept lookout lined with Native American artisans selling handmade jewelry proves a popular destination for tourists and photographers alike. Though visitors warn Oak Creek Vista can get crowded, most agree its epic views are worth the trip.
Practical Info
Oak Creek Vista is located 13 miles north of Sedona. It is open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. April through November.
Address: Sedona, Arizona, USA
From $ 70
Oakland Cemetery
More than just Atlanta’s oldest cemetery, dating back to 1850, Oakland Cemetery’s large grounds serve as a tranquil sanctuary from the urban bustle. Take a quiet moment to meander past stunning mausoleums, grand oaks, and notable graves including those of Bobby Jones, Margaret Mitchell, and Maynard Jackson.
The Basics
An astounding 70,000 people are buried in the 43-acre (17-hectare) Oakland Cemetery. Though the last plots were sold in 1884, burials still continue through the use of family-owned plots and city exceptions for notable figures. Today the site also functions as a beautiful park with winding stone paths, shade-producing trees, and blossoming flowers. You can explore the cemetery on your own at any time without paying an entry fee, or upgrade for a self-guided tour map with information about notable graves or a guided tour with the Historic Oakland Foundation on the weekends (no reservation required). When you first get to the cemetery, be sure to stop by the Visitors Center for maps and information.
To get the most out of your visit to the Oakland Cemetery, go as part of an Atlanta guided tour via Segway or a Gone with the Wind tour, which shows you the cemetery through the eyes of the famous book-turned-film.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Oakland Cemetery is lovely for anyone looking for a little serenity.
- Discounts on tours are available for students and seniors.
- Private tours and tours by golf cart are available at any time.
- The cemetery offers limited wheelchair access.
How to Get There
Oakland Cemetery is located just north of Grant Park, roughly a 10-minute drive from downtown Atlanta. There is free on-site parking. If traveling by MARTA, the closest stop is King Memorial Station.
When to Get There
The cemetery is open from dawn until dusk every day of the year; the Visitors Center is open from 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday with seasonal weekend hours. Throughout the year, Oakland Cemetery hosts events such as the very popular annual Victorian Street Festival, during which some patrons come dressed in period clothing. Music festivals, special topic tours, and various events also fill up the cemetery’s calendar.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park, just a 5-minute drive away from Oakland Cemetery. It’s also only a 10-minute drive from other must-see downtown Atlanta attractions such the CNN Center, the Georgia Aquarium, and the World of Coca-Cola.
Address: 248 Oakland Ave, SE, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
From $ 55