Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa
ShowingFilter 1561-1580 of 2014 listings.
The Alamo
The Alamo is one of the most famous sites in United States history, forever linked to the 13-day Battle of the Alamo in 1836, which ended with the deaths of defenders James Bowie, William Travis, and Davy Crockett. Today, the 18th-century Mission San Antonio de Valero complex, now known as the Alamo, welcomes more than 2.5 million visitors per year to its chapel, barracks, gardens, and small museum.
The Basics
When to Get There
While the Alamo is open 364 days per year (closed Christmas Day), many travelers prefer visiting in the off-peak season between early September and early March, mainly due to cooler weather and sparser crowds. Try getting there first thing in the morning or at dusk when the mission is beautifully lit.
Diving into History at the Alamo
To understand early Texas history and Texas independence, a visit to the Alamo is essential. Visitors are free to tour the grounds on their own, or sign up for a guided or audio tour. The mission complex is a stop on most sightseeing and hop-on, hop-off bus tours, which often also include stops at Mission San Jose, Market Square, and Mission Concepcion. Travelers can combine a visit to the Alamo with a cruise along the San Antonio River Walk, or, for those interested in the Alamo's ghostly residents, visit the complex as part of a haunted San Antonio tour.
How to Get to the Alamo
Alamo Plaza is located in the heart of Downtown San Antonio, just a block away from the San Antonio River Walk. Visitors with a car will find ample parking in the area, though often for a fee. The complex is also located along the VIVA missions and VIVA centro bus routes.
- This site is a must-see for history buffs.
- Don't forget to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
- San Antonio can get hot; be sure to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
- All public areas of the Alamo are wheelchair accessible.
- Keep in mind that photography is not permitted inside the Alamo Church or Long Barrack Museum.
Alamo Plaza is located in the heart of Downtown San Antonio, just a block away from the San Antonio River Walk. Visitors with a car will find ample parking in the area, though often for a fee. The complex is also located along the VIVA missions and VIVA centro bus routes.
When to Get There
While the Alamo is open 364 days per year (closed Christmas Day), many travelers prefer visiting in the off-peak season between early September and early March, mainly due to cooler weather and sparser crowds. Try getting there first thing in the morning or at dusk when the mission is beautifully lit.
Diving into History at the Alamo
The Alamo's regular calendar of events features free history talks several times per day in the Calvary Courtyard, as well as living history presentations that sometimes include period impressions and live demonstrations of fire starting, leatherworking, or textile making. A 17-minute film telling the 300-year Alamo story is shown in the Long Barracks Theater and the Alamo Arbor.
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas 78205, USA
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9am–5:30pm, Sunday 10am–5:30pm
Admission: Free
From $ 15
The Cloisters
A branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Met Cloisters is a hodgepodge construction, featuring parts of several European monasteries, which were dismantled, transported, and rebuilt here in New York. The collections center on medieval art and include frescoes, tapestries, sculptures, stained glass, and religious icons.
The Basics
Visitors can prepurchase a 3-day general admission ticket to New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, which grants access to all three branches: the Met Fifth Avenue, the Met Breuer, and the Met Cloisters. Tour the Cloisters independently, join a guided highlights tour (included with admission), or rent an audio guide. Some art-focused tours of Harlem and Upper Manhattan stop at the Cloisters, while select New York sightseeing and discount passes include free access to the Cloisters.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Met Cloisters is a must for art and architecture lovers.
- Leave large bags and luggage at home as they can’t be stored at or brought into the museum.
- Because of its listed status, wheelchair accessibility is limited at the Cloisters. Notify staff ahead of your arrival for extra assistance.
How to Get There
The Met Cloisters is situated in Fort Tryon Park in Hudson Heights, Northern Manhattan. To get there, take the subway to 190th Street (A train); the Cloisters is about a 10-minute walk north along Margaret Corbin Drive. From the Met Fifth Avenue, ride the M4 bus from Madison Avenue and 83rd Street.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is spring and summer, when warmer weather means you can fully enjoy surrounding Fort Tryon Park and the views of the Hudson River. The museum is busiest on weekends. If you want more space to explore, arrive early in the day. The galleries typically fill up as the day goes on.
The Other Branches of the Met
The Met owns one of the world’s largest art collections, with more than two million pieces to its name. Its biggest branch is the Met Fifth Avenue, which features everything from an ancient Egyptian temple to paintings by European masters. Opened in 2016, the Met Breuer, on the Upper East Side, is the museum’s newest outpost. The Breuer is devoted to modern and contemporary art and features works ranging from photography and video pieces to installations.
Address: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
The Coaster at Goats on the Roof
On the edge of the Smoky Mountains, the family friendly roadside stop Goats on the Roof draws visitors with a wide range of attractions, including the eponymous goats that graze on the roof of the building, and also a unique Alpine-style roller coaster that twists and turns through the forest. Unlike traditional roller coasters, The Coaster at Goats on the Roof runs single carts that are driver operated. Riders can go alone or with a friend, and once they’re strapped in, they have control of the ride with a hand brake to adjust the speed. At full speed, the coaster reaches almost 30 mph, the track is about a mile long, and the average ride lasts for about 7 minutes.
Practical Info
The Coaster at Goats on the Roof is only about 20 minutes from both Dollywood and Gatlinburg, making for a fun afternoon activity when visiting the Pigeon Forge areas or Smoky Mountains National Park.
Address: 1341 Wears Valley Rd., Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37863, USA
Hours: Open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission: Adults, $15; children ages 7 to 12, $12l; children ages 3 to 6; $5.
From $ 15
The Hamptons
New Yorkers know that when city streets heat up in the summer, weekends are best spent by the coast. That’s why every Friday, urbanites in search of escape fill the Hampton Jitney and the Long Island Expressway to take in some sun and fun in the Hamptons.
The Basics
The Hamptons is a string of villages in Long Island’s East End, around 100 miles (161 kilometers) east of New York City. In summer, its cool bays and laid-back atmosphere provide relief to the stifling city heat. Home to quiet streets, country stores, world-class restaurants and museums, and broad sandy beaches, many well-to-do New Yorkers and celebrities have summer residences here.
Although it makes for a long day of traveling, it’s possible to visit on a day trip from NYC. Guided tours usually pick up passengers in Midtown Manhattan and generally include walking tours of a handful of the charming small coastal towns, such as Southampton and Sag Harbor. Some break up the return journey with a stop at the Tanger Outlets mall and often include discount cards.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hamptons is a must-visit for NYC visitors looking for an outdoors escape.
- Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially on summer weekends.
- Some beaches are private and require passes to access.
- If you’re driving, you’ll need a permit to park at many beaches.
How to Get There
The Hampton Jitney bus service makes several stops in NYC and throughout the Hamptons. If you’re driving, the Long Island Expressway or Southern State Parkway to Sunrise Highway takes you straight through the Hamptons. Or, avoid traffic and take the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station; the Montauk Branch stops at Southampton, East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk.
When to Get There
The Hamptons are busiest during summer weekends: Beaches are crowded, accommodations book up (and prices inflated), and you’ll likely have a hard time getting a seat at the best restaurants. Try to visit on a weekday instead. In winter, the biting sea wind can be unpleasant, but spring and fall are usually mild and lack crowds, although some businesses close outside of peak season (Memorial through Labor Day).
World-Class Museums
Contemporary art lovers shouldn’t miss the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, Dan Flavin Art Institute in Bridgehampton, and the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center in East Hampton. History buffs should head for the Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum, and Southampton’s Shinnecock Nation Cultural Center and Museum, dedicated to Native American history.
Address: New York, USA
From $ 169
The D Las Vegas
Formerly known as Fitzgerald’s Casino, The D Las Vegas is set at the heart of the city’s historic downtown, and just steps from the Fremont Street Experience with its evening sound and light shows.
The hotel spent $22 million during a 2012 renovation, and today two levels of gambling halls accompany 638 rooms, restaurants, and evening shows. For the raucous and raunchy late night crowd, head to Jokesters Comedy Club where many of the city’s best comedians sling jokes that are definitely on the dirty side. Or, for an evening of side-splitting shows and theater, catch a performance of “Marriage Can Be Murder” or the Broadway show, “Defending a Caveman.” To keep the night going after the show, grab a drink at the Long Bar— which is the longest bar in Las Vegas—or test your luck at one of the tables that feature dancing dealers.
Practical Info
The D Las Vegas is about 20 minutes away from the Las Vegas airport. While the hotel has a number of casual restaurants, Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse is reputed to have one of the best steaks in Vegas and is a must if staying at the hotel.
Did You Know? The D Hotel is home to American Coney Island restaurant—the only one outside Michigan.
Address: 301 Fremont Street, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
From $ 18
Texas Governor's Mansion
The Texas Governor’s Mansion in downtown Austin has been the official home of the presiding governor of Texas and family since 1856, and it’s the fourth-oldest continuously operating governor’s house in the United States. The Greek Revival-style mansion, a national historic landmark, is open for free tours on select days.
The Basics
An Austin landmark and the official home of the Lone Star State governor and family, this Greek Revival-style structure offers a look into Texas’ past and present. Visitors take a free tour of the Texas Governor’s Mansion on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with reservations made in advance. The tour showcases the first floor, and guests get an insider’s look at historical home furnishings, ornate building details, and pieces of Texas history.
To hear more history behind the building and the state’s capital, book a tour of Austin that makes the Texas Governor’s Mansion one of its highlights. Many guided walking, running, and Segway tours include a stop outside the mansion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To take one of the free tours (Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 2pm to 4pm), guests must make reservations at least one week in advance. No walk-up tours are available.
- As part of making a reservation, visitors receive a background security check.
- There are no restrooms available for public use, and visitors may not bring any bags inside.
How to Get There
The Texas Governor’s Mansion is located at 1010 Colorado Street in downtown Austin near the southwestern corner of the Texas State Capitol Building. It’s about 10 blocks west of I-35. If driving from outside of Austin, take I-35 to 11th street and head west to Colorado. Metered street parking is sometimes available around the Capitol, or you can park in the Texas Capitol Visitors Center Parking Garage (parking is free for the first two hours).
When to Get There
Your arrival at the Texas Governor’s Mansion is dictated by your appointed tour time, but you can view the exterior of the governor’s mansion at your leisure.
Behind the Scenes
Your tour of the governor’s mansion is likely to include more than a few interesting tales. A few tidbits: Sam Houston burned a letter from Abraham Lincoln in a fireplace here after Lincoln offered Houston federal troops in an effort to keep Houston in office and Texas in the Union. More recently, the mansion was where then-governor George W. Bush watched the 2000 election that made him the 43rd president of the United States.
Address: 1010 Colorado Street, Austin, USA
From $ 25
The Cannery
Located beside San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, The Cannery is a historic building that (as you might have guessed) was once home to the California Fruit Company (later Del Monte) fruit and vegetable canning plant. In fact, while it was open it was the largest peach canning facility in the world.
It was utilized as such until 1937, and upon renovation in 1960 it reopened as collection of shops and restaurants. The beautiful red brick exterior surrounds a courtyard where trains once ran into the cannery. Its courtyard still has the same century-old olive trees which line the outdoor space for sidewalk cafes and, during the summer, street performers and musicians.
Unique shops located at The Cannery include a build-a-bear toy shop, art and sculpture galleries, and an international musical instrument shop. There is also a small wine tasting room, artisan bakery, and the classic Jack’s Cannery Bar. The shopping center overlooks San Francisco Bay.
Practical Info
The Cannery is located at Del Monte Square on Leavenworth Street, just three blocks from Pier 39 in San Francisco. Shops open daily at 10 am, and on Sundays at 11 am. Restaurants begin serving lunch around 11 am.
Address: 2801 Leavenworth Street, San Francisco, California, USA 94133, USA
Hours: Shops are open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm and Sun 11am-6pm
From $ 59
The Green
This one-and-a-half acre park is a well-known landmark in Uptown Charlotte. The Green has an artsy flair, with colorful sculptures and fountains, and there are numerous options alongside the park to grab a bite to eat, while the park itself has all the makings for a nice picnic. It’s a frequent lunch spot for employees who work nearby and plays host to the Charlotte Shakespeare Festival every summer.
Practical Info
The Green is located across from the Convention Center in Uptown Charlotte. Parking is located underneath The Green, at The Green parking garage.
Address: Charlotte, North Carolina 28202, USA
From $ 45
Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol building and its stunning presence on the Austin landscape earns its place on the National Register of Historic Places with ease. An extraordinary example of stonework and 19th-century architecture, the Texas State Capitol is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most “stately” state capitols with its elaborate limestone work and impressive dome, which reaches 15 feet above its Washington counterpart.
Offering a panoramic view over all of Austin from the capitol dome, the 1888 Texas State Capitol has the largest square footage of any state capitol in the Unites States, and is only seconded by the National Capitol in Washington D.C. A tour through these beautiful grounds will do more than expose you to the history of Texas legislation, but will tell “a true Texas story.”
Offering a panoramic view over all of Austin from the capitol dome, the 1888 Texas State Capitol has the largest square footage of any state capitol in the Unites States, and is only seconded by the National Capitol in Washington D.C. A tour through these beautiful grounds will do more than expose you to the history of Texas legislation, but will tell “a true Texas story.”
Address: Austin, Texas, USA
Hours: Monday - Friday: 7am - 10pm
Saturday and Sunday: 9am - 8pm
From $ 25
Texas State Cemetery
The Texas State Cemetery, in addition to being a somber place for reflection, provides a historical overview of the notable men and women whose legacy continues to shape the Lone Star State. Among the famous interred here are writer James Michener, Civil Rights leader Barbara Jordan, and Stephen F. Austin, known as the Father of Texas.
The Basics
The Texas State Cemetery visitor center features interactive displays on Texas history and offers audio tours for those visiting independently. The grounds also contain a 9/11 memorial and a monument to the Tennessee Native Sons who died fighting for Texas’ independence.
A guided visit offers background information to help you appreciate the legacies of those buried here, from politicians and brave Texas loyalists to Wild West outlaws. Some city tours include a stop here in addition to other Austin highlights, such as the Texas Capitol and Mayfield Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Texas State Cemetery is a must for US history buffs.
- The cemetery grounds are open daily from 8am to 5pm; the visitor center is open weekdays only.
- Gravestone rubbings are prohibited.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to walk on some uneven terrain on the grounds.
How to Get There
The Texas State Cemetery is on Navasota Street in East Austin. If you’re driving, head south on US 35 to 11th Street, then turn right on Navasota. Limited parking is available at the visitor center, on Navasota Drive between Seventh and 11th streets.
When to Get There
The cemetery is open year-round, and spring and fall can be busy with school tour groups. If you visit in the summer, arrive early to avoid the sometimes oppressive afternoon heat. In the event of a funeral (which can happen with little notice), the grounds will be closed and no tours will be allowed.
Famous Graves
Some of the most notable gravesites include those of former Texas Governor Ann Richards; Chris Kyle, Navy SEAL and author of the book American Sniper; author James Michener; Tejano leader José Antonio Navarro; and several Texas Rangers. Former President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush have chosen to be buried here, too.
Address: 909 Navasota St, Austin, TX 78702, USA
From $ 25
Tennessee State Capitol
The Tennessee State Capitol stands tall on Nashville’s highest hill as a symbol of its time, virtually unchanged since its construction in 1859. The structure is the masterpiece of notable architect William Strickland, who passed away during construction and was laid to rest in the building. The National Historic Landmark was built in Greek Revival style and is one of few state capitols without a dome. It was modeled after an Ionic Greek temple. Though classic in design, at the time it was considered innovative in construction.
The capitol building is beautiful to see and historic to visit, with statues of many important political figures as well as the graves of President James K. Polk and his wife. Its walls are lined with beautiful murals, frescoes, and paintings, while its halls are lit by ornate chandeliers. It is still in use by the Tennessee state government today. It is the oldest operating state capitol in the country.
Practical Info
The Tennessee State Capitol is located on Charlotte Avenue between Sixth and Seventh Avenues in Nashville. To get there take the Charlotte Ave. exit off of I-40. There is plentiful free parking. Free guided tours are available at the top of each hour Monday to Friday. There are also brochures available for self-guided tours.
Address: 600 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, Tennessee, USA, USA
Hours: Open Tues-Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 1pm-5 pm
From $ 20
The Gondola at Heavenly
Whether you're an adventure junkie or a relaxation-seeking traveler, the Gondola at Heavenly Ski Resort is a can't-miss Lake Tahoe attraction. Take it to the top of the mountain, then gaze out over panoramic shore-to-shore views of aqua-blue Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains from up high.
The Basics
The Gondola at Heavenly travels 2.5 miles (4 km) up the mountain from Heavenly Village in 15 minutes. Stop midway at the 9,123-foot (2,780-meter) Observation Deck viewing platform for photos, and at the top, embark on three summer hiking trails or hang out at the Tamarack Lodge.
- Even those afraid of heights will feel safe in the fully enclosed gondola.
- This is a great group activity for skiers and non-skiers alike.
- The three hiking trails at the top are available for summertime use.
- Dress in layers for the elevation change and cooler air at the top of the mountain.
- Scenic gondola rides are included with the Heavenly season pass.
How to Get to the Gondola at Heavenly
The Gondola departs from the middle of Heavenly Village. Located on the California-Nevada border in South Lake Tahoe, Heavenly is easily accessible by car from Lake Tahoe resorts such as Northstar and Squaw Valley or Tahoe City.
When to Get There
A gondola ride at Heavenly Lake Tahoe offers very different experiences in winter and summer, but the scenery is equally breathtaking. Wintertime provides scenic views of the snowcapped Sierra Nevada and a chance to go skiing or just experience the bustling Tamarack Lodge. Summertime allows for hiking at the top, a ropes course, or maybe even a ride on a zip line in addition to the views over Carson Valley and the Desolation Wilderness. Gondola tickets prices go up on holidays.
Other Things to Do at Heavenly
Ride back down to the village and spend some time in the pedestrian mall; here, you can browse souvenir shops and boutiques. If you're with kids, take them to the arcade or ice skating at the Heavenly Village Outdoor Ice Rink. If you're a winter sports enthusiast, the Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort itself has 97 runs and 30 lifts, a ski school, and terrain parks spread between California and Nevada.
Address: 3860 Saddle Road, South Lake Tahoe 96150, USA
Hours: Summer (Jun - Sept) only: daily 10am - 4pm
Admission: Adults: US$32, Teen (13-18yrs): US$26, Children (5-12yrs): US$20
From $ 27
The Breakers
The Breakers, the crown jewel of the Newport mansions and the summer estate of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, is an architectural and social archetype of the Gilded Age. The 70-room, four-story structure was built in 1895 and designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, who modeled it after 16th-century Italian Renaissance palaces.
The Basics
Vanderbilt, the grandson of railroad tycoon Commodore Vanderbilt, spared no expense in designing this lavish Gilded Age temple, installing a high entrance gate that weighs over seven tons; using gold leaf and rare marble; and bringing in painters from Europe to create mural-size baroque paintings. Inside, all the furnishings on view are original. Outside, open-air terraces give way to breathtaking ocean views. The Preservation Society of Newport County purchased the house in 1972, and today it is a National Historic Landmark, part of the Bellevue Avenue Historic District.
To visit the Breakers, you must arrange a tour through the Preservation Society of Newport County. Many Breakers tours are available, some departing from as far away as Boston and New Hampshire. Local tours of Newport include city sightseeing with admission to the Breakers and sometimes Marble House as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- During the busy summer months, tours do sell out. Purchase a tour ahead of time to avoid disappointment, or ensure your admission as part of a more comprehensive guided Newport tour.
- Flash-free photography is allowed inside the Breakers, but tripods and other equipment are not.
- The Breakers, Marble House, the Elms, and Rosecliff are partially wheelchair accessible; please call ahead for more information.
- Children are welcome at the Breakers, but strollers are not allowed inside the house.
How to Get There
The Breakers is located on Ochre Point Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island. About a half-mile west of the house is the Breakers Stable & Carriage House, which houses an exhibit on the New York Central Railroad.
When to Get There
The Breakers mansion is open year-round for tours and is busiest in the summer, when Newport plays host to vacationers from all over the East Coast and beyond.
Other Historic Newport Cottages
The Breakers is part of a group of historic cottages under the auspices of the Newport Preservation Society. Most of them are within walking distance of one another, and include Rosecliff, Marble House, the Elms, Chepstow, Hunter House, the Isaac Bell House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Kingscote, and the Green Animals Topiary Garden. Some excursions include admission and guided tours of some or all of the houses.
Address: 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840, USA
Hours: Daily 9am - 5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
The Dakota
The iconic apartment building ‘The Dakota’ is a stunning structure that ushered in an era of luxury apartment living in Manhattan. Built in the 1800s in Gothic and Victorian styles, it is adorned with ornate balconies and a slate and copper roof. Prior to its construction, apartments were often viewed only as a low income housing option. Now a central and desirable spot in the Upper West Side, at the time it was built it was considered far from the center of the city (hence its name, thought to be as far out as North and South Dakota.) The Dakota offered amenities similar to luxury hotel properties to its residents, such as full-time staff, a gymnasium, private dining room, and meal delivery.
Many famous names have called The Dakota home. The building surrounds a beautifully maintained courtyard that was once the arrival spot for carriages. It is perhaps best known, however, as the tragic site of John Lennon’s death. He owned multiple apartments in the building, and was shot upon exiting its entryway. Many of his fans visit The Dakota before or after a visit to the nearby Strawberry Fields.
Practical Info
You can find the Dakota at the intersection of 72nd Street and Central Park West. To get there using the subway, take either the B or C train to the 72nd Street Station. It is only possible to view the exterior of the private residence.
Address: 1 West 72nd Street, New York City, New York, USA, USA
From $ 30
The Elms
Built as a summer residence, The Elms is one of almost a dozen properties cared for by Rhode Island's Preservation Society of Newport County. It was designed and constructed in 1901. Modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d'Asnieres (c.1750) outside Paris, it cost the Berwind family approximately $1.4 million to build. (Calling both Philadelphia and New York home, Edward Berwind made his fortune in the coal industry.) After the house was finished, elaborate gardens were planted in the early 1900s.
The house remained in the Berwind family until 1961. The Preservation Society of Newport County purchased The Elms in 1962 and opened it to the public. In 1996, it was designated a National Historic Landmark.
Practical Info
An audio tour is included with admission to The Elms. Plan on an hour and a half to explore the mansion and grounds. The operating schedule varies according to the season, and free off-street parking is available. Children are welcome at The Elms, but strollers are not permitted inside the mansion.
Address: 367 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
The Castro
The Castro District, known otherwise as simply, "the Castro," is widely considered the United States' gay capital. Not only is it the largest, but also the country's first.
Regardless of a visitor's sexual orientation, the Castro is full of wonderful attractions, including the Castro Theatre, one of San Francisco's more popular movie palaces, complete with a world-class interior chandelier and designed with a colonial Spanish Baroque facade.
Perhaps the area's most culturally significant landmark, the GLBT Historical Society includes a museum and archives documenting the history of the gay and lesbian communities in the U.S. Aside from its core purpose, the building also houses other interesting institutions including the Cartoon Art Museum, which features well over 6,000 different cartoons and comics, and the Catharine Clark Gallery, an exhibition including different forms of media for contemporary, living artists.
Also be sure to check out Harvey Milk Plaza, named after the famous openly gay politician, commonly labeled the "martyr of gay rights."
Practical Info
The most efficient way to commute to the Castro District is via the MUNI Metro system, either by the L, K, or M line. For a more scenic and exciting experience you can also take the famous F Market streetcar line that will tour you through the Castro's lovely downtown area and Fisherman's Wharf.
Address: San Francisco, USA
From $ 24
Tennessee State Museum
Oddities and artifacts abound in the permanent collections of the free-to-the-public Tennessee State Museum, together they tell the story of this particular swath of the American South from 12,000 years ago to the early 1900s. The main exhibit space consumes the ground floor of the massive office tower at the James K. Polk Cultural Center, and is divided into six eras such as the “First Tennesseans,” “Civil War and Reconstruction,” and the “New South.” The Military Branch Museum, a vestige of the museum’s former nearby location in the War Memorial Building prior to its 1981 move, is run separately and offers an in depth look into major battles from the Spanish American War to World War II featuring weapons, uniforms, flags and personal items from Tennessee soldiers.
Among the more unusual finds in the main space are a 3,600-year-old mummy brought by Tennessean merchant marine to the state during the prosperous antebellum period, a Frontier-era log cabin showing colonial life, mastodon bones, a huge collection of quits, a hand-drawn Confederate battle field map, a covered wagon, a horse-drawn fire engine with brass water pump, Daniel Boone’s cutlery set and pocket knife, an early model of a flying machine, a moonshine sill, a model of a white wooden riverboat, Andrew Jackson’s personal items and a leather jacket once worn by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower during his role as a WWII General. Rotating exhibitions keep things fresh and have included artwork from Japanese museums, the original Emancipation Proclamation, photographs of Elvis and a collaborative exhibit with the adjacent Tennessee Performing Arts Center on Tennessee’s African American musical heritage. Though captivating for school children and adults, there is little interactive here to entertain families with very young children. Plans for a shiny new State Museum, proposed for a location along Bicentennial Mall a few blocks away, are in the works.
Practical Info
The Tennessee State Museum is located at 505 Deaderick Street in Downtown Nashville. It is open from Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. til 5 p.m. and closed on major holidays. The Military Branch across the street (301 6th Ave. N) is open 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday only. Some visiting exhibits may charge admission fees. Flash-free photography is permitted. There is no designated museum parking, but several state and public pay lots are located around 5th Avenue.
Address: 505 Deaderick Street, Nashville, Tennessee 37243, USA
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. til 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. til 5 p.m. and closed on major holidays.
Admission: Some exhibits may charge admission fees
From $ 39
The Embarcadero
Acting as both the waterfront and major road along the eastern edge of San Francisco, the Embarcadero stretches from Fisherman’s Wharf to South Beach, passing through some of the city’s most popular destinations. It attracts visitors and locals with its restaurants, bars, hotels, tourist attractions, event spaces, bay cruises and ferries, and a wide pathway for walkers and joggers.
The Basics
You’ll likely find yourself on the Embarcadero at some point during your stay in San Francisco, whether you’re watching the sea lions at Pier 39, hopping on an Alcatraz ferry at Pier 33, visiting the Exploratorium at Pier 15, catching a ferry to Sausalito at the Ferry Building, or taking in a Giants baseball game at AT&T Park. See it from above on a helicopter flight, or explore on two wheels with a bike or Segway tour.
The Central Embarcadero Piers Historic District, which consists of piers 1, 1 1/2, 3, and 5, is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Embarcadero is 3 miles (4.6 kilometers) long, so wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to walk it.
- It’s a busy road, with both vehicle traffic and streetcars, so only cross at designated crosswalks.
- Starting at the Ferry Building, odd-numbered piers run north to Fisherman’s Wharf and even-numbered piers run south to South Beach.
How to Get There
The MUNI light rail system runs along Market Street to the Embarcadero, as well as along the southern portion of the Embarcadero itself. If you’re taking the BART, get off at the Embarcadero station. Paid parking lots and metered street parking are available all along the Embarcadero.
When to Get There
Enthusiastic photographers will want to go at sunrise for shots of the sun rising over the bay, while those who want to eat and shop should wait until late morning. Waterfront bars and restaurants near downtown get lively during happy hour—a fun time to mingle with locals. Fourth of July fireworks take place near Fisherman’s Wharf, and an ice skating rink operates at the Embarcadero Center during the holidays.
Ferry Building
In the center of the Embarcadero, across from where Market Street ends at the Embarcadero Plaza, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a haven of gourmet goodies and views of San Francisco Bay. Taste your way through the historical building, from cheese and bread to oysters, wine, coffee, and ice cream, or try your luck at getting a table at the Slanted Door, a popular Vietnamese restaurant.
Address: The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 20
The Grove
This 57,000 square-foot outdoor mall in L.A.'s condensed Mid-City neighborhood draws crowds of tourists and locals every day of the year. Opened in 2002 and designed to look like a city within a city, its meandering layout features faux-Art Deco facades, stone-paved pathways, several restaurants and cafes, a shiny double-decker streetcar, and a whimsically animated fountain beside a grassy park. Since 2010, the entertainment tabloid show Extra has been filmed here, providing visitors a chance to see both a TV production and host Mario Lopez in action.
Surrounded by a shopping district full of independent boutiques and restaurants, and only about a mile from the famous Beverly Center, The Grove's popularity can be ironically attributed to its location. The mall sprawls adjacent to two other major attractions, CBS Television City (where visitors line up to see tapings of TV shows like Dancing With the Stars and American Idol) and the Original Farmer's Market. The latter, a city fixture since 1934, is a friendly warren of food stalls and sit-down eateries, gourmet provision and souvenir shops, and some of the best people-watching in Los Angeles; the Farmer's Market is one of the few places in town where you'll see old men in Greek fishing caps playing backgammon, an extended Korean family, and a surly pack of teenage hipsters in the same glance.
The Grove offers shopping and eating opportunities for visitors from all ages, as can be seen with the enormous, pink American Girl Place; a small Nordstrom's with a wildly popular shoe department; a glitzy 14-screen movie theatre; a huge Banana Republic; an even bigger Barnes & Noble; a swanky cocktail bar scene at The Whisper Lounge; gleaming outposts of Maggiano's Little Italy and The Cheesecake Factory; local chain Umami Burger and UK chef Gordon Ramsay's Fat Cow; and an Apple store that attracts TV and movie celebrities to its second-floor Genius Bar.
The Christmas season is especially festive at The Grove, which begins shortly before Thanksgiving. Here you'll find Santa in his North Pole house, an ongoing series of holiday concerts, a twinkling display of nighttime lights, and, trimmed to the hilt, the city's largest Christmas tree.
Surrounded by a shopping district full of independent boutiques and restaurants, and only about a mile from the famous Beverly Center, The Grove's popularity can be ironically attributed to its location. The mall sprawls adjacent to two other major attractions, CBS Television City (where visitors line up to see tapings of TV shows like Dancing With the Stars and American Idol) and the Original Farmer's Market. The latter, a city fixture since 1934, is a friendly warren of food stalls and sit-down eateries, gourmet provision and souvenir shops, and some of the best people-watching in Los Angeles; the Farmer's Market is one of the few places in town where you'll see old men in Greek fishing caps playing backgammon, an extended Korean family, and a surly pack of teenage hipsters in the same glance.
The Grove offers shopping and eating opportunities for visitors from all ages, as can be seen with the enormous, pink American Girl Place; a small Nordstrom's with a wildly popular shoe department; a glitzy 14-screen movie theatre; a huge Banana Republic; an even bigger Barnes & Noble; a swanky cocktail bar scene at The Whisper Lounge; gleaming outposts of Maggiano's Little Italy and The Cheesecake Factory; local chain Umami Burger and UK chef Gordon Ramsay's Fat Cow; and an Apple store that attracts TV and movie celebrities to its second-floor Genius Bar.
The Christmas season is especially festive at The Grove, which begins shortly before Thanksgiving. Here you'll find Santa in his North Pole house, an ongoing series of holiday concerts, a twinkling display of nighttime lights, and, trimmed to the hilt, the city's largest Christmas tree.
Address: 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036, USA
Hours: Mon - Thurs: 10am-9pm; Fri - Sat: 10am-10pm; Sun: 10am-8pm
From $ 49
The Battery and White Point Garden
The Battery wraps around the edge of Charleston’s peninsula, providing an elegant buffer between the city and the Ashley and Cooper rivers. Stroll and sightsee along the wide pedestrian paths, which pass by antebellum homes and historic sights, or perch beneath the live oaks in White Point Garden and watch the world go by.
The Basics
The Battery refers to the stretch of seawall and adjoining pedestrian paths along Charleston’s peninsular edge. White Point Garden is a 5.7-acre (2.3-hectare) public park on the Battery that rests on Charleston’s southernmost tip, where the Ashley and Cooper rivers converge. Both attractions are free and open to the public—expect to see them full of locals and visitors alike on any given day, especially around sunset. The Battery is also rich with historic sights and monuments, including old cannons, the Confederate Defenders of Charleston statue, and grand antebellum homes as far as the eye can see.
Visiting the Battery is an essential Charleston experience. You can explore it and White Point Garden independently or with a guide, as its complex history is included on most city sightseeing boat, bus, and walking tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Battery and White Point Garden are a must for first-time visitors to Charleston, especially history buffs.
- This outdoor attraction is great for kids and suitable for pets.
- Dress for the weather, keeping in mind the midday heat.
- There are no public restrooms or water fountains nearby.
- While mostly accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, uneven surfaces can make it difficult to navigate.
How to Get There
The Battery is located along the edge of the Charleston peninsula. You can walk or bike from downtown Charleston, or take the free DART shuttle’s green line. If driving, there is free and metered street parking in the vicinity.
When to Get There
The Battery and White Point Garden are free, open, and popular year-round. Be sure to check the weather before you go and plan accordingly.
Tours of the Battery
If you’re looking for more than just a pleasant walk along the Battery and White Point Garden, consider going as part of a guided tour. Downtown Charleston walking tours are a popular option, as are sightseeing cruises that let you see the Battery from the water.
Address: USA
From $ 20