Category Adventure Travel

What sets O’ahu apart from other Hawaiian islands? Honolulu, of course. It’s the only Hawaiian island with a real city, complete with high-rises, loads of fine-dining options in downtown Honolulu and enough shopping to keep you busy for an entire vacation. In other words, you will never run out of things to do. Give yourself an entire week so you have enough time without feeling rushed. The world-famous beaches, of course, are a no-brainer. But there are many other ways to enjoy Oahu’s capital city when you need a break from beach lounging. So hop in your rental car—you’ll need one to get around— and start exploring some of Honolulu’s top attractions including Pearl Harbor, hiking on Diamond Head and sunbathing on Waikiki Beach.

1. Take a very scenic hike

Get up early and hike Diamond Head before it gets too crowded or hot. The Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail is one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu because it’s surprisingly walkable even in athletic shoes. It is steep in parts, but the 360-degree views of Honolulu, Waikiki and Hawaii Kai will make it all worth it. Just be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, charged phone and water since there’s no shade.

2. Eat, drink and practice aloha

If you visit in the fall, foodies will love attending the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival. Get to know up and coming Honolulu-area chefs, Michelin-starred legends and well-known bartenders from Oahu and beyond at several different events, all while devouring fresh, homegrown foods. This year’s theme, “Taste Our Love for the Land,” encourages residents and visitors to care for the island and its natural resources. Take part in volunteer opportunities led by local chefs through the Malama ‘Aina Program for a deep dive into island culture and appreciation. Note: This year’s events will be held outdoors in small groups.

3. Lend a hand on vacation

Keep Oahu beautiful by volunteering with Malama Hawaii, a program that encourages travelers to learn about island culture and give back while doing something outside of the touristy norm. Many hotels are part of the statewide effort, including the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Honolulu. Guests can learn about growing taro, one of the most important cultural foods, or help repair woven thatch homes in exchange for a discount. Beyond Honolulu, other Malama Hawaii activities include a helicopter tour with Paradise Helicopters, complete with a private landing and the chance to plant a native tree while learning how to heal the land. Guests at Outrigger Hotels & Resorts can take part in a 2-hour eco-adventure at Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, 4000 acres of land you might recognize from Jurassic Park, Jumanji and Godzilla. In a small group, you’ll hear about the importance of upland ahupuaa streams, the dangers of micro-plastics and how to help protect the natural beauty of the islands.

4. Eat a fancy donut

Stopping by Holey Grail Donuts for a treat is an absolute must. If you have time to wait in line, that is. The popular eatery, created by brother-and-sister duo Nile and Hana Dreiling, often has a line because they make each piping-hot donut to order. What makes this $4 treat so special? Its base is made from taro, a native Hawaiian superfood that is pounded and fermented, giving the donuts a fluffy interior with a crisp exterior (since it’s fried in coconut oil). Fun flavors change up often but be prepared for creative options like freshly picked lilikoi, dragonfruit lemonade and honey cream pineapple with Thai basil. Props to this clever farm-to-dough operation for making Instagram-worthy delicacies. If you’re on Kaua’i, you can also grab donuts at the original food truck. Pro tip: Stop by after the morning rush, and you might not have to wait in line.

5. Get artsy at a museum

Immerse yourself in many works of art at The Honolulu Museum of Art, home to pop-up installations, a variety of exhibits and a summer nights program complete with a DJ and hands-on workshops. Grab a bite at the cafe or sit on the lawn for live music. The Hawaii State Art Museum, in the stately No. 1 Capitol District Building, is an awesome way to spend the morning or afternoon. Admission is free, and there are hands-on activities throughout the year. Pro tip: Afterward, put on your walking shoes and find as many outdoor murals as possible; there are several blocks sporting colorful street art.

6. Carve the waves and surf with a pro

If you are staying at Kaimana Beach Hotel, prepare to have bragging rights. You can take surf or stand up paddle board lessons from 2018 ISA World longboard surfing champion Kai Sallas. He’ll take you to a surf spot perfect for beginners where surfing first got its start. Or, if you’re more advanced, he’ll help you move to the next level.

7. Forage for your food

Be an ethnobotanist for the day with Dr. Nat Bletter, founder of Madre Chocolate. Join his monthly foraging class (offered by Slow Food O’ahu) through Makiki to learn about the slow food movement and discover edible plants along the way. Bring a bag and fork along; you’ll get to enjoy a wild-plant salad at the end filled with things like nom nom fruit, pink peppercorns, macadamia nuts and banana blossoms.

8. Go boho-chic with a flower crown

Floral headdresses have a long history in Hawaii. Paiko, a botanical boutique in the Kaka’ako neighborhood, celebrates the fashion statement piece known as the haku lei.

Sign up for a 2-hour, private-flower-crown-making session where you can make a tropical crown full of fresh flowers (think anthuriums and orchids) and gorgeous foliage (think ferns and eucalyptus). Plant materials are locally sourced, and the minimum number of guests is six and the maximum is 20. Throughout the year, you can also take classes about succulents, bonsai shaping and ulana lau niu, the Hawaiian ancient art of weaving coconut fronds. Bonus: There’s also a DIY bar where you can pot your own plants if you like. Pick up gifts, like coconut planters, locally made soap and jewelry, while you’re at it. The Happy Haku offers private and group crown-making sessions, too.

9. Take a boat cruise on the ocean

Do you remember in the first season of The White Lotus where the guests take an ocean cruise to the resort? You and your friends can set sail on the very same vintage yacht, The Vida Mia. Board the circa 1929 commuter yacht at the marina in Waikiki for a 90-minute cruise. The morning sunrise cruise features Hawaiian coffee, fruit and pastries, while the sunset cruises that might include fireworks, cocktails or live music. No matter the time of day, you’ll love exploring Vida Mia’s gleaming expanses of teak wood, stained glass touches and the porcelain bathtub below deck. Take in breathtaking ocean and island views, snap pic pics of Diamond Head State Monument and maybe even spot a sea turtle or a whale.

10. Slurp some shave ice

Where you grew up, that refreshing combination of crushed ice and fruity syrup may be called a snow cone or a snowball. But here in Honolulu, it’s called shave ice. Typical syrup flavors include tropical lilikoi, melon, guava and mango, along with pan-Asian additions like salted plum, chewy mochi and maybe even sweet red beans. There’s no shortage of Honolulu shave ice shops, but our tried and taste-tested favorites include the original Waiola Shave Ice in a family owned convenience store in the McCully neighborhood and Lahaina Shave Ice tucked away near the Waikiki Beach Walk.

11. Experience Shangri La

Late philanthropist Doris Duke is famous for many things, including being a skilled surfer and at one time being the richest young heiress in the world. During her honeymoon, she became enthralled with Islamic and Moorish design, and created a tribute to it at her home called Shangri La. She spent $1.4 million in 1930s money (about $30 million today) on stained glass, tile, mosaic flooring, gardens, fountains, carvings and artwork for her stunning 14000 square foot estate overlooking the ocean. The mother of pearl inlaid bedroom is worth the trip alone. The estate’s overall effect is mind blowing, which explains why it’s one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu. As soon as you can, reserve your $25 ticket for a guided tour via the Honolulu Museum of Art.

12. Shop the farmer’s market

There’s no shortage of amazing produce and island delicacies created on Oahu. Find them all at once at the Kaka’ako Farmers Market from 8 am to noon Saturdays where Ala Moana meets Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s a great place for iced slushies made with local honey, fresh pressed sugar cane juice, plus sushi, poke bowls, barbecue, flowers, baked goods plus all the fruits, greens, and veggies you need to make smoothies and healthy meals for the week.

13. Visit the Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The bombing at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 was one of the most devastating attacks on US soil. The Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor does a great job of bringing this tragedy to life by sharing stories of diverse people who lived and worked in the area. Many emigrated from China, Japan and other parts of the US, and their lives changed dramatically after the bombing. After an introduction, you’ll take a ferry out to the actual monument at sea where the USS Arizona sank. Be sure to allow enough time for the entire experience and bring a jacket since it’s windy on the water.

14. Brunch on pink pancakes

Since 1927, The Royal Hawaiian Resort has been one of Waikiki’s most iconic hotels. The Spanish-Moorish design is distinctive, but its most memorable feature is the blush pink exterior, which earned it the title the Pink Palace of the Pacific. Instagram-worthy photo opportunities abound from the row of vintage rockers with pink cushions off the lobby to the graceful arches of the main corridor. But our favorite spot is on the terrace lined with pink and white umbrellas where they serve brunch. The eggs Benedict and bloody marys are divine, but the dish to order is the stack of rosy pancakes infused with berries and maple syrup.

15. Relax on Waikiki Beach

After a few days of go-go in Honolulu, you’ll be needing some beach time. Waikiki was the Hawaiian royal family’s favorite beach in the 1800s, and over time visitors came to appreciate this beautiful beach on a calm stretch of the Pacific Ocean.The Moana Hotel started developing Waikiki into what’s now a world renowned beach, shopping and hotel destination. This is also where modern surfing took off, and you’ll see plenty of devotees riding the waves. So grab your beach blanket, bikini and sunscreen and hit the sand.

You might also like:

Waikiki and beyond: The best beaches around Honolulu
How to get around in Hawaii
Introducing Hawaii’s national parks

Texas Hill Country offers travelers a break with wineries, rivers, hiking trails and live music. 

Covering 31,000 sq miles (80,290 sq km) of gently rolling hills in Central Texas, the region abounds with destinations to explore. As you head west from Austin, you’ll arrive at charming towns such as Marble Falls, Blanco, Wimberley, Fredericksburg, Dripping Springs and Johnson City. These towns have small populations, sure – but they’re big on Texas spirit.

There are, of course, plenty of Texas spirits, as well: distilleries and wineries dot the roads here. You’ll also find a lively art scene, restaurants both casual and refined, swimming holes, miles of nature trails and dazzling night skies you won’t find in the city. When you venture into Texas Hill Country, you’ll discover why it’s so popular with Texans and visitors alike. 

The best time of year to visit Texas Hill Country

March through May are great months to visit. Wildflowers bloom throughout the rolling hills in spring, including Texas’ state flower, the bluebonnet. This is also when you can sample Hill Country wines during the Wine and Wildflower Journey. The weather in spring is mild, with average temperatures around 60–85°F (15.5–29°C).  

In June through August, temperatures can reach into the triple digits Fahrenheit. Despite the sweltering weather, this is Hill Country’s high season. Summer visitors enjoy the region’s rivers and lakes for water sports. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the summer crowds retreat and pleasant temperatures prevail.

In the winter, the weather is generally mild enough to spend time outdoors golfing, hiking and touring wineries. Yet winter also does bring the occasional freeze, along with ice and snow. Toward the end of the year, small towns across Hill Country twinkle with Christmas lights as they celebrate the holidays.

How long to spend in Texas Hill Country

Most people tackle Hill Country in three days, wandering from town to town for wildflower views, winery visits and outdoor pursuits. Three or four days – perhaps a long weekend – is best to experience it all. 

If you only have a few days, spend time exploring Fredericksburg. Start with a stroll downtown, then shop on Main St and in the Warehouse District for home decor, clothing, furniture, pottery and souvenirs. Grab dinner at Vaudeville, where elevated options include Akaushi beef with Parmesan polenta and yellowfin tuna with a ginger broth.

Fuel up for the day with a German breakfast (Texas has lots of German heritage) at Old German Bakery & Restaurant before heading out to area wineries. Signor Vineyards has a wine barn, patio, sprawling lawn and market. Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten, which occupies a cottage on Main St, is also a must-see. Rest up at Inn on Barons Creek, where shuttle rides for the 290 Wine Trail begin, before heading home on Sunday. 

If you can add more days onto your trip, consider exploring other Hill Country towns such as Johnson City, Blanco, Marble Falls, Dripping Springs, Kerrville or Boerne. These destinations offer plenty of downtown squares, country hikes and cool waters to enjoy.

How to get in and around Texas Hill Country

It’s easy to access Hill Country from the international airports in Austin or San Antonio. Once you arrive, renting a car is your best bet for exploring a region without great public transport options. If you don’t want to drive yourself, rideshare companies can get you to and around Hill Country, though you’ll pay a premium for this. 

For those looking to visit area wineries, the 290 Wine Shuttle is a safe and reliable option at around $50 per person. On Saturdays, the shuttle picks up and drops off at 15 wineries and distilleries every 15 minutes from 10am to 6pm. Hop on and off as you wish throughout the day. Friday and Sunday shuttles are also available, though these days only offer stops at 11 wineries.

Top things to do in Texas Hill Country

Be surprised by Texas wine 

A warm climate almost all year long means great conditions for growing grapes. Indeed, Texas wine production has ramped up tremendously within the past 20 years. Today, Texas is the country’s third-largest American Viticultural Area (AVA).

Hill Country vineyards and wineries welcome visitors for tastings and private events. Wedding Oak Winery in San Saba offers 100% Texas-grown wines on its patio and terrace, as does Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood, together with charcuterie boards, pizzas and light bites. In Hye, Ron Yates Wines offers Spanish-, Italian- and Rhône-style wines at a tasting pavilion open seven days a week. Fredericksburg’s Slate Theory Winery has an awesome underground cellar for tastings (reservations required) and a tasting room open to the public. In Stonewall, Pedernales Cellars has a beautiful deck with Hill Country views. Johnson City’s Lewis Wines sits on 100 acres and offers tastings, tours and fun events. 

The website Texas Hill Country Wineries provides more information, including a winery map and event happenings. While planning, be sure to make reservations for wineries that require them and bring snacks, as not all stops have food.

Explore Texas Hill Country parks and natural areas

See what makes Texas for everyone at parks throughout Hill Country. Several state parks offer camping, hiking and stargazing. Top picks include Pedernales Falls State Park, Inks Lake State Park and Longhorn Cavern State Park. Hike, fish, or camp at Pedernales Falls and Inks Lake, or try spelunking at Longhorn Cavern.

The privately owned Krause Springs has swimming areas, campsites and a butterfly garden that are all open to the public. Perfect for families, the Cibolo Center for Conservation has children’s activities, family night hikes and birding workshops. During spring, stop by Wildseed Farms. This 200-acre working wildflower farm bursts with color and has a vineyard, beer garden, and walking trail. 

Spend a day on the water

Refreshing rivers weave throughout Texas Hill Country. Natural pools and springs dot the terrain. For a day of floating on the Frio River, visit Garner State Park. Then, check out the Guadalupe, Comal or San Marcos Rivers for more float spots. When you’re ready to swim, visit Hamilton Pool, a natural swimming hole surrounded by a canyon and waterfall (reservations required). The Blue Hole in Wimberley is another must-visit swimming hole fed by the blue-hued Cypress Creek (reservations required to swim). 

Travelers who prefer being on the water rather than in it can also experience Hill Country by boat. At Lake Buchanan, several boat ramps make it easy to set sail. Kayakers will want to head to Canyon Lake or Lady Bird Lake for a day of paddling.

Go on a barbecue adventure 

Between outdoor pursuits and wine adventures, you’ll work up quite an appetite. Visit Lockhart, which is the “official barbecue capital” of this grilling-mad state. Stop by Kreuz Market, Smitty’s Market or Black’s Barbecue for mouthwatering brisket, ribs, sausage and all the sides (think potato salad, coleslaw and pinto beans) you can handle.

Lots of barbecue joints are upping their game these days to cater to the craft-barbecue crowd. This means you can expect elevated side dishes, creative cocktails and global flavors infusing Texas classics. Eaker Barbecue in Fredericksburg serves gochujang pork ribs and kimchi fried rice, along with traditional barbecue offerings. Pflugerville’s Brotherton’s Black Iron Barbecue cranks out brisket boudin links and Texas banh mi sandwiches, while Louie Mueller Barbecue in Taylor delivers dino beef ribs, among other tasty classics.

Texas Hill Country events

A calendar of festive events keeps Texas Hill Country active in all seasons. On December 31, visit Fredericksburg and dance until the New Year at the Hangar Hotel as a band plays live music. When Valentine’s Day arrives, bring your sweetheart to a winery like Pedernales Cellars for a romantic wine tasting event. In spring, celebrate the region’s wildflowers at events like Georgetown’s Red Poppy Festival. For a memorable community experience, plan a summer trip around small-town Pride events in Dripping Springs, Boerne or Fredericksburg.

Discover Hill Country celebrations in the last half of the year, too. In October, Sundrop Springs hosts its Fall Festival, San Marcos puts on the Frights & Sounds Music Festival, and New Braunfels hosts its Dia De Los Muertos Festival. New Braunfels finds more to celebrate in November during Wurstfest, an event honoring German culture. In December, get in the holiday spirit with colorful lights at Johnson City’s Lights Spectacular or Santa’s Ranch in New Braunfels.

My favorite things to do in the Texas Hill Country

Hill Country is full of adventure, including some fun, free things to do in Texas. I love starting the day with a hike uphill at Enchanted Rock State Park. The views from the pink granite dome are a must-see Texas Hill Country attraction. Next, I might stop at a couple of the wineries along nearby Hwy 290. Never miss a trip to Luckenbach, where there’s live music almost every day.

For overnight stays, I visit Dripping Springs for Camp Lucy. The resort has colorful decor, modern amenities, a relaxed atmosphere and a fabulous on-site New American restaurant, Tillie’s. For a health-focused stay with a heavy dose of relaxation, I like Lake Austin Spa Resort. This spot has soothing rooms and a full calendar of activities, with everything from hydrobiking, kickboxing and tai chi to cocktail classes.

How much money you’ll need for a Texas Hill Country trip

What are some important things to know before traveling to Texas? A trip to Hill Country can range from affordable to expensive, depending on where you stay, eat and shop. There are many inns, hotels, bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals in the area. Prices range from budget rates of around $60 per night to upward of $500 per night. Plan on spending around $50 to $150 per person per day for meals. 

A guide to average daily costs in Texas Hill Country

• Lunch for two: $40

• Mid-range dinner for two: $60

• Basic room for two: $150–200 per night

• Average Airbnb: $200 per night

• Glass of wine: $18

• Winery tour and tasting: $115-300

Natural playgrounds and all-season outdoor recreation define the ‘City of Trees.’ Boise’s 160 miles of trails, picturesque river, community ski hill, unique urban parks and pedestrian greenbelt practically demand adventure.

Though Boise might feel a little more lived-in than touristy, its laid-back, friendly demeanor is refreshing; want to stop at the brewery in your bike shorts? No problem! But if you fancy a proper clean-up before partaking in the finer arts of history and culture, you’re in luck; Boise fancies that, too.

1. Cruise the Boise River Greenbelt

You haven’t truly experienced Boise until you’ve walked, biked or scootered some part of the Greenbelt. For over 50 years, this paved, 30-mile trail has been Boise’s central artery. It stretches from Lucky Peak Reservoir in the east to Veteran’s Park (and beyond) in the west and includes more than 15 park-and-ride access points. The city parks along the Greenbelt are referred to as the ‘Ribbon of Jewels,’ but some locals prefer to call those parks the ‘Queens of Boise’ since they are named after prominent women who helped shape Boise’s community.

Besides green space and beachy river pull-offs, other points of interest include the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, MK Nature Center and Bethine Church River Trail, which features some of the state’s top bird-watching spots.

Bring a swimsuit to enjoy a visit to Quinn’s Pond and Esther Simplot Park, which could easily last all day. Swimming, fishing, paddling and waterside-lounging with on-site watercraft rentals from Idaho River Sports are refreshing on a hot summer afternoon. A playground, covered shelter, bathrooms and wetland walking trails round out the experience.

Planning tip: After a swim, throw a sun dress or shirt over your suit and explore the restaurants and wine-tasting rooms of Surel Mitchell Live-Work-Create District, named after Boise artist Surel Mitchell, who championed the idea of a community living space that would both support and inspire artists.

2. Ride and hike the Ridge to River trails

Whether it’s a family hike, marathon-training trail run, or undulating mountain bike loop, this network of dirt paths linking public and private lands in the city’s foothills never fails to provide a moment of solitude and appreciation for nature. In the fall, the yellow blooms of rabbit brush and purple aster vibrantly paint the hills. In spring, the pink petals of the mariposa lily and sunny yellow blooms of arrowleaf balsamroot bring cheer to an otherwise monochrome landscape. Very few fragrances beat the smell of sagebrush after a rare desert rain.

Trailheads at Camel’s Back Park, Hull’s Gulch and the Military Reserve are popular for their variety of distances and cityscape vistas. Be sure to check signs for pedestrian or bike-only routes as well as one-way directional patterns.

Detour: A short walk south on 13th St from Camel’s Back Park also brings hikers to the community of Hyde Park, a cute North End neighborhood with local boutiques, a few restaurants and a Boise gem: Goody’s Soda Fountain. Parents, keep this knowledge in your back pocket if your hike with wee ones dissolves into bribery.

3. Spend a Saturday afoot downtown

Boise hosts two summer Saturday Markets: the Boise Farmers Market on Shoreline Dr and Capital City Public Market on 8th and Main St. Between browsing locally picked produce and hand-crafted sundries, check out the rest of the city. JUMP, a nonprofit community center, is a splash of architectural intrigue. Visitors can wander the building and grounds, which display vintage tractors and steam engines in honor of Idaho’s most famous potato farmer, J.R. Simplot, and then zip down its five-story slide.

Another unique stop is the ‘pink tree.’ It’s a beautiful life-sized tree sculpture in Cherie Buckner-Webb Park on Bannock Street that features two bench swings strung from its limbs – perfect for tilting skyward and watching the pink leaves flutter and reflect off the surrounding glass high-rises. While you’re on the west side of downtown, you might as well pop into The Record Exchange or swing by Rhodes Skate Park to see what the youth are up to.

Planning tip: Before heading to a morning market, put your name on the waitlist at Goldy’s (on Capitol) for a post-walk brunch table. Expect a 45-minute to hour-long wait on Saturday mornings, but the mango mimosas and salmon benny are delish and well worth your patience. Truth be told, their cheese grits rival those of the American South, but that feels blasphemous to divulge.

4. Plan a budget-friendly kid’s day

Beyond parks, playgrounds and open spaces, Boise is as kid-friendly as it gets. The Boise Depot is a Spanish-style building located at the historic Union Pacific Railroad site on Vista. Encompassed by the beautiful Platt Gardens, it features Big Mike (a 1920s steam train) and panoramic views of downtown’s Capitol building and foothill surrounds. The gardens are free to visit.

The MK Nature Center is another free option. Nature trails wind around a pond that is home to numerous five-and-six-foot sturgeon, and fish-viewing windows along the trails display the life cycle of native species. Other kid favorites (with entrance fees) include Zoo Boise, the Discovery Center and Idaho State Museum.

5. Gaze at the wondrous Freak Alley Gallery

This is one of Boise’s curiously organic phenomena: an open-air public mural that seems to keep stretching into new territory. The mural was first hatched in 2002 when Colby Akers started doodling on the walls outside of Moon’s Cafe. Rather than ask him to cover it up, the owners told him to sign and date it. Twenty years later, the doodles have flourished into an iconic Boise treasure of rotating displays by volunteer artists. Get your Instagram-worthy photos here – or take your morning coffee from Dawson Taylor to-go so you can fully indulge in your downtown meander.

6. Indulge in a splurge-worthy date night

We’re always keen on dinner and a show, so here’s a curated menu of excellent options. The Flicks on Fulton Street is an independent movie theater featuring international and non-blockbuster films. The Morrison Center and Boise Contemporary Theater showcase live performances throughout the year: plays, dances, talks and music.

To couple your show with lighter fare, we recommend the delicious Basque wine and tapas at the Basque Market (closes at 5pm, though, so go before the show; or in warmer months, order pickup for a pre-show picnic). For a more experimental flavor adventure, KIN accepts monthly reservations for a five-course prix fixe meal, and its ambient setting at the bottom of a grassy hill at One Capital Center is very chic and somehow still humbly Boise.

7. Celebrate Boise with bikes, balloons and all things Basque!

Between Boise’s Goathead Fest, Jaialdi, Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic and the Twilight Criterium, Boise’s community events slice the best of life for everyone. Goathead Fest, held every August, is the vision of local bicycle advocate Jimmy Hallyburton. It brings together ‘pedal-powered’ volunteers to remove the invasive goathead weed from bikeways and celebrate with a ‘wonderfully weird’ bike parade, costumes, food, music and dancing at Cecil D Andrus Park.

Jaialdi is a quinquennial, world-renowned celebration of Basque culture. If you happen to miss the next one in 2025, you can always visit the Basque Block anytime. The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic is an annual event during Labor Day Weekend that fills the Boise skies with hot-air balloons. And for three days in July, the Twilight Criterium transforms a block of downtown streets into an intense and exciting circuit of youth, amateur and professional cycling athleticism.

8. Sightsee at Idaho Botanical Garden and Old Idaho Penitentiary

These may seem like opposite ends of the sightseeing spectrum, but the botanical garden and prison happen to be neighbors in the east end, so why not get your doom and bloom in one fell swoop? Twelve distinct garden areas display flowers, herbs and vegetables alongside sculptures and art. Special garden events throughout the year cater to family-oriented fun. Winter Garden Aglow is worth visiting; it’s a spectacle of lights that transforms the dormant winter garden into an electrifying wonderland of color.

The Old Pen, built in 1870, operated for 101 years and stands to tell the story of Idaho’s wayward rabble-rousers. In addition to walking through the gallows and closing themselves in solitary confinement, visitors can peruse the exhibits, such as prisoner-fashioned contraband weaponry. If it sounds macabre, it is!

Detour: The trailhead to Table Rock, a 3.7-mile loop, is located just off the parking lot at the Penitentiary. It’s a well-marked, well-used trail with steep climbs and picturesque views.

9. All the world’s a stage at Idaho Shakespeare Festival

We love this festival! It partnered with Great Lakes Theater (Cleveland, Ohio) in 2002 and eventually Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival (Incline Village, Nevada) in 2010 to bring incredible, quality performances to audiences across the country. The amphitheater and surrounding habitat reserve in Boise’s east end are worth a visit on their own, but the magic of a Shakespeare or contemporary play under a Boise night sky is undeniably intoxicating.

Planning tip: Arrive well before showtime to wander the paths in the surrounding reserve. Strategically placed rock slabs along the river are perfect for a picnic or bistro-style dinner from the cafe. Shows run May through September, rain, shine or 100-plus-degree nights, so dress accordingly.

10. Catch your all-season thrills at Bogus Basin

For the past 80 years, Bogus Basin, just 16.5 miles north of Boise, has operated as a nonprofit ski hill for the local community. It still retains that hometown hospitality, though it has evolved into a year-round locale for outdoor recreation. In the winter, it operates 10 lifts for 2,600 acres of skiable terrain and hosts a parking lot that feels a bit like a tailgate party; tents, barbecues, fire pits and a few friendly dogs keep the mood festive even on the coldest days. In the summer, a pair of lifts bring bikers and hikers to its multi-use trail network. Throw in live music at the lodge and a mountain coaster ride, and you’ve got an enticing family retreat.

11. Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey

In the fall, visit the World Center for Birds of Prey and catch a program called Fall Flights. It may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the swoop of a hawk, falcon or owl overhead. The event, held in an outdoor amphitheater, features falconers showing off the spectacular aerial skills of birds of prey. Besides this special program, the center is home to the archives of falconry and an educational and interpretive center for visitors to learn about the Peregrine Fund’s conservation programs and the raptors’ impressive biological features.

Planning your trip: Fall Flights run autumn weekends, mid-September through the end of October. The rest of the Interpretive Center is open year-round.

12. Dance into the music scene

With Treefort Music Festival hitting its 10th anniversary, Boise has established itself as an eclectic, independent music scene for breakthrough bands. Quirky venues continue to pop up in new pockets of town. Flipside (a Treefort off-shoot) launches its inaugural festival in the fall of 2022, and Garden City (a city within Boise) will play host. Alive After Five is a free summer concert series on the Grove where it’s not uncommon to witness a dance circle of freestyle breakdancers and a toddler.

The Idaho Botanical Garden offers a more natural setting and reverberates with mountain tunes and main-stage rockers alike. If it’s intimacy you’re after, the upscale restaurant, KIN, is dabbling in “PiKINic” nights on their Main Street grassy knoll, with musical guests such as Boise’s beloved Doug Martsch of the indie rock classic Built to Spill.

It’s easy to understand why anyone who saw the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar would catch a case of footy fever: the non-stop, unscripted drama of serious soccer is more nail-biting than anything you’ll find on Netflix. The coronation of Lionel Messi as World Cup king was the stuff of legends. The surprise success of Morocco will be remembered for decades to come. There’s a reason the World Cup is the world’s most-watched sporting event.

But if you want to get tickets to FIFA’s 2026 World Cup, you’ll have to wait.

FIFA’s website currently promises information is coming regarding ticketing for the 2026 tournament, and in the meantime, you can sign up to receive ticketing information when it becomes available. According to the United 2026 World Cup bid book, tickets will likely go on sale in 2025. Additionally, FIFA has secured a company called On Location, to offer fans a concierge experience at the tournament (think priority access and VIP experiences). 

Still, there’s plenty to consider while waiting for tickets to drop. FIFA recently announced where the upcoming games will take place – and it’s never too early to start making travel plans.

When is the World Cup?

Unlike the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which scored millions of international viewers in November and December 2022, the next tournament will return to its usual summer slot, lasting from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Where will the World Cup 2026 take place?

Games will kick off in 16 cities across North America, and for the first time in World Cup history, they’ll span three countries. Canada will host for the first time, the US will host for the second and Mexico will become the first country to host the World Cup three times.

The majority of matches will take place across the US, with 11 cities represented: Atlanta (eight games), Boston (seven games), Dallas (nine games), Houston (seven games), Kansas City (six games), Los Angeles (eight games), Miami (seven games), New York (eight games), Philadelphia (six games), San Francisco (six games) and Seattle (six games).

The remaining matches will be split between Mexico’s Guadalajara (four games), Mexico City (five games) and Monterrey (four games), along with Canada’s Toronto (six games) and Vancouver (seven games).

Which cities will host the most popular matches?

Soccer is improvisational – it’s challenging to forecast which games will make it into the pantheon of football favorites. But to ensure a festive atmosphere, check the match schedule and consider visiting a city hosting the tournament’s most spectacular events.

For the opening match, plan a trip to Mexico City around Thursday, June 11, when international teams will square off against one another at the Estadio Azteca.

The final match will rile up New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 19 – a 30-minute train ride from New York City. Don’t get confused by the stadium’s name: MetLife will be called the New York New Jersey Stadium for the duration of the event, honoring FIFA’s rule against corporate-sponsored facilities.

For those more interested in the love of the game than the fanfare of a grand finale, consider Dallas, Texas, as a home base for the events. The Big D will host nine matches – more than any other city participating in the tournament. Dallas will also host one of the semifinals, along with Atlanta. Miami will host the bronze final.

What can I do now to prepare for travel?

1. Decide where you’d like to travel. If there’s a particular team or match you want to see, let that information guide your travel plans. If you’re less concerned with a specific match, explore all possible locations. The 16 hosting cities represent a diverse swath of urban life in North America. There’s something for everyone – be it verdant Vancouver, BBQ-smoked Kansas City or sun-kissed Los Angeles. Traveling through an exciting metropolis can be just as rewarding as watching a world-class football game.

2. Get the proper travel documents. Unless you’re attending the tournament in your home country, ensure you have an up-to-date passport, valid for six months after any intended travel. (Your passport should be valid through January 2027 to attend the World Cup’s final match in July 2026.) Visitors from outside the host nations should also check Canada, Mexico and US visa requirements and obtain any necessary paperwork.

3. Start making a budget and saving money. Attending the World Cup gets pricey, particularly if you want to see the final match in NYC – a city known to be expensive. Although ticket information isn’t available for 2026, the cheapest tickets to Qatar’s final showdown cost roughly $200 for locals and $600 for visitors. Add airfare, on-the-ground transportation, hotels and food to the mix, and you’ll spend a pretty penny.

According to accommodation website Booking.com, traveling from New York to Doha for one week during the 2022 World Cup would’ve cost upwards of $4000 – and that doesn’t account for game tickets or food. If seeing Argentina fight for another World Cup title is a must-do for you, start setting aside money now.

Which destinations should be on my shortlist?

America’s budding soccer capital

Kansas City is positioning itself as ‘the soccer capital of America,’ as the city begins to plan for the six games it will host. Brush up on your familiarity with this midwestern gem. Arrowhead Stadium (home to the Kansas City Chiefs) and the National WWI Museum and Memorial (the site for the FIFA Fan Festival) have been pegged as the two sites where Kansas City will hold its World Cup matches. 

The city has invested $600 million in the sport over the last 15 years, with the KC Current opening a new training facility and stadium downtown. Expect Kansas City to go all out for the World Cup, aiming to cement its reputation as the center of everything for US soccer fans. 

Apart from soccer, Kansas City has plenty to do. It’s an incredibly livable city with a robust arts scene and great food. If you’re there and don’t go to Gates or Arthur Bryant’s for barbecue you’re missing out. City Market is another stop well-worth your time, too. Expect fresh-baked goods, excellent coffee and fresh produce from local vendors at the farmer’s market there; It’s a wonderful place to wander, shop and snack. 

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is another must-see with a sculpture garden and a collection that rivals those of more notable standouts around the world. In terms of where to stay, look to some new properties including the AC Hotel Kansas City and the Origin Hotel. The Truitt is another great, more boutique option with a beautiful design and central location. 

The beautiful game, a beautiful place 

Vancouver is also fighting hard for its place in soccer tourism come 2026. And with good reason. The city offers an incredible opportunity to take in both sport and nature during the World Cup. Having already hosted the Women’s World Cup in 2015, BC Palace Stadium is already known to soccer fans as a great venue to watch a match, with a retractable roof and seating for 54,000. It’s also easy to get to and not far from the rest of what Vancouver offers.

The city is a great blend of urban adventure and outdoor exploration with endless ways to spend your time outside of the tournament. Vancouver’s Indigenous history is rich, so carve out some time to visit the Bill Reid Gallery or grab a bite at First Nation’s restaurant Salmon n’ Bannock. For a beach day, head to beloved Second Beach or English Bay Beach, or take a hike on the West Coast trail, which is open May to September. 

Vancouver is also as chic as it is outdoorsy, so expect your accommodations to match. We like the Pan Pacific and the Smithe House. 

Cow town turned soccer HQ

FIFA has placed its tournament headquarters in Dallas, making it an obvious World Cup soccer destination. Catch one of the nine matches planned there at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Dallas is a melting pot of a big Texas energy, incredible food (you can’t find better Tex-Mex) and a splash of cosmopolitan culture. From shopping to arts and eating, there is so much to explore. Plus, the soccer scene in North Texas is a force with FC Dallas as the hometown team and a roster of more than 175,000 registered soccer players across the region. 

If you choose to stay near the stadium in Arlington, you’ll be uniquely positioned to take advantage of both Dallas and nearby Fort Worth while you’re in town. Each has its distinct vibe: Dallas is a little more metropolitan and Fort Worth has a bit more historic charm. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum and Dallas Museum of Art, as well as the Stockyards and the Kimbell Art Museum. 

The best way to see San Francisco is on foot – hills be damned. Long strolls will let you fully appreciate the city’s nuances, quirks and endless appeal.

We’ve compiled five long walks that will take you into the historic heart of the city and explore some of its most diverse neighborhoods. Even in the center of the city, you can expect encounters with nature while enjoying the fabulous views that are part of the city’s lore. You’ll even get up close and personal with some of the city’s top icons. Whether you have two hours or most of a day, one of these walks will suit you. Along the way, you’ll discover opportunities for good food and drink, as well as shops like none you’ll find elsewhere.

1. Chinatown and North Beach

Best for essential San Francisco
1.5 miles one-way, 3 hours, moderate

This itinerary starts in Chinatown at Portsmouth Square, the neighborhood’s unofficial living room. The square is graced by the Goddess of Democracy, a bronze replica of the statue that Tiananmen Square protesters made in 1989.

Stop in at the Chinese Historical Society of America, dedicated to the experiences of Chinese immigrants to the USA during the gold rush, construction of the transcontinental railroad and the decades that followed, with virulent racism a steady backdrop. Meander north on the busy, shop-lined streets, watching for the 41 historic alleyways packed into Chinatown’s 22 blocks. Don’t miss Waverly Place and its historic clinker-brick buildings and flag-festooned temple balconies.

Cut over to Columbus Ave and the heart of San Francisco’s Beat culture at Jack Kerouac Alley. Take note of the words of Chinese poet Li Po embedded in the alley: “In the company of friends, there is never enough wine.” And indeed, in the 1950s, Kerouac, Arthur Miller and other literary icons used to raise a few at the neighboring bar Vesuvio. Nearby is legendary City Lights Books, one of America’s best bookshops.

Continue up Columbus through the heart of North Beach, which still has discernible Italian roots. At lushly planted Washington Square, you’ll spot parrots in the treetops and octogenarians in tai chi tiger stances on the lawn.

Next, head up steep, residential Greenwich St to Coit Tower – and the best views in the city. The exclamation point on San Francisco’s skyline, this stark, white art deco structure is surrounded by a park, from which thrilling vistas open up from the Golden Gate to the Bay Bridge and beyond. Take time to duck into the tower’s lobby, where murals depict city life during the Depression: people lining up at soup kitchens, organizing dockworkers’ unions, partying despite Prohibition and more. These scenes have riled up conservatives since they were first unveiled.

Now, head east and down the Filbert Street Steps. The steep climb leads past hidden cottages along Napier Lane, more sweeping views and more colorful wild-parrot flocks. Continue across the Embarcadero to the waterfront at Pier 23, where you turn left for Fisherman’s Wharf or right for the Ferry Building.

2. The Mission

Best for seeing San Francisco’s contradictions on display, and for murals
2.75 miles one-way, 3 hours, easy

The Mission is a crossroads of contradictions. At its heart is Mission St, SF’s faded “miracle mile” that’s now occupied by dollar stores and rollicking street life, festooned with colorful murals and filled with buzzy restaurants. West of Mission St, Valencia St has both quirky boutiques and seven-figure condos. Calle 24 (24th St) is SF’s designated Latino Cultural District. A walk through the Mission puts the multitudes that modern San Francisco contains on full display.

Begin at the city’s first building and neighborhood namesake: the adobe Mission Dolores, built by some 5000 conscripted Ohlone and Miwok laborers in the 18th century. (You can see the Miwok memorial hut, dedicated to these anonymous laborers, through the mission fence on Chula Lane.) Hitchcock fans will note a prime filming location from the 1958 classic Vertigo.

Climb to the upper southwestern corner of Dolores Park for panoramic views and prime people-watching. Then walk down 19th St, past Daniel Doherty’s impressionist-inspired 2009 mural A Sunday Afternoon at Dolores Park, which depicts Dolores Park’s regular cast of characters, including frolicking pugs and handlebar-mustached men in matching swim shorts.

On Valencia, pause to pay your respects to bygone celebrities at Dog Eared Books: the front window features hand-drawn obituary cartoons of luminaries. Window-shop down Valencia, then hang a left onto Calle 24, where you’ll pass community centers, churches, bodegas, panaderias (bakeries) and taquerias all swathed in murals. Stop at 24th & York Mini Park, where Aztec serpent-god Quetzalcoatl rears his mighty mosaic head.

Double back along 24th St, cross over and swing down to Balmy Alley, where you may recognize beatified activist Archbishop Romero and surrealist painter Frida Kahlo among the colorful characters illuminating garage doors. Since you’ll have worked up an appetite by now, join the line at La Taqueria for one of SF’s best burritos. Get yours dorado–style, with a crispy surface.

 3. Presidio and Crissy Field

Best for views of the ocean, bay and Golden Gate Bridge
3.5 miles one-way, 4 hours or more, easy

As you explore the Presidio, the vast splotch of green on the map between Baker Beach and Crissy Field, you’ll find parade grounds, historic buildings by the dozen, beautiful natural areas and some fascinating art projects. What started as a Spanish fort built by Ohlone conscripts in 1776 is today a treasure hunt of surprises. It was decommissioned as a military base in 1994 and turned over to the National Park Service (NPS), which has been transforming it into one of the nation’s most exciting urban parks. Download the NPS Presidio app for details on trails and sights.

At mile-long Baker Beach, you can take in the spectacular views of the Golden Gate. Crowds descend on weekends, especially on fog-free days, so arrive early. For nude sunbathing, head to the northern end. Mind the currents and the c-c-cold water.

Hike up along the Batteries to Bluffs Trail, which follows the coast and offers spectacular views from bluffs where huge guns once defended San Francisco. Head inland to Fort Winfield Scott, with its flat parade ground and vintage buildings. Curve east on paths along Lincoln Blvd and enjoy the bay and bridge views.

At the manicured Main Parade Lawn, cafes and museums await. The Presidio Officer’s Club is the site’s oldest building, its gorgeous Spanish-Moorish adobe architecture dating to the 1700s. The free Heritage Gallery shows the history of the Presidio, from Native American days to the present, along with temporary exhibitions.

Cross over the new grasslands covering Hwy 101 and head down to Crissy Field, a military airstrip turned waterfront nature preserve with knockout Golden Gate views. Bird-watchers, walkers, windsurfers, kitesurfers and cyclists flock here. Rent a bike and join the fun, or sit on the beach and watch for the gray whales that sometimes venture into the bay.

4. Haight and Golden Gate Park

Best for hippie culture and a fun-filled park
4.5 miles one-way, 4 hours or more, easy

Begin this long walk in Buena Vista Park, with its panoramic city views, then head west up Haight St and into the neighborhood that defined the Summer of Love in 1967. Hippie flashbacks are a given here, where the fog is fragrant downwind of Haight St’s legal marijuana dispensaries.

Turn right onto Waller St and left uphill past 432 Delmar St, site of the Sid Vicious overdose that broke up the Sex Pistols in 1978. A block over, pay your respects to Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir and Pigpen at the Grateful Dead House. Down the block, 635 Ashbury St is one of many SF addresses associated with Janis Joplin, who had a hard time hanging onto leases in the 1960s.

At the corner of Haight and Ashbury, the clock overhead always reads 4:20 – better known in “Hashbury” as International Bong-Hit Time. Follow your bliss to the drum circle at Hippie Hill in Golden Gate Park, where free spirits have gathered since the ’60s to sway to the beat.

This blissful green space sprawls across 1017 wonderful acres, with a variety of sites that hold something for every interest. Heading west toward the ocean, you can see carnivorous plants gobbling insects at the Conservatory of Flowers, or spot blue butterflies in the rainforest dome at the California Academy of Sciences. Perhaps you’ll choose to get lost in the art galleries of the de Young Museum, or maybe you’ll allot a couple of hours to sipping green tea in the Japanese Tea Garden. Note that cars were banned from John F Kennedy Dr in 2021, which makes walking here even more enjoyable.

Continuing west, there’s the walk to the summit at Strawberry Hill and the namesake large, furry critters grazing at the Buffalo Paddock. The sound of the surf means you’re close to the Pacific and magnificent 4-mile-long Ocean Beach.

5. The Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito

Best for dramatic views and nature
5 miles one-way, 4–6 hours, moderate

One of San Francisco’s best walks takes you immediately out of the city. But what a walk it is.

Your first steps will take you onto the Golden Gate Bridge, which you’ll cross before bending around the bay to the delightful town of Sausalito, and a ferry back to SF. (Confirm the ferry schedule before you set out.) Expect sweeping views of the city and extensive natural beauty that surprises so close to a major metropolis.

The city’s most spectacular icon towers 80 stories above the roiling waters of the Golden Gate, the narrow entrance to San Francisco Bay. Begin your walk at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center at the south end, where you’ll learn how the monumental undertaking was completed in 1937, a mere 4 years after construction began.

Pedestrians will take the eastern sidewalk. Be sure to dress warmly: It’s 1.7 miles across, and you’ll want to take your time for the views, both horizontal and vertical. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to look right down the funnel of a passing ship.

At the north end, follow the curving walkway and road all the way down to Ft Baker and Horseshoe Bay. This former military post, which must have one of the world’s best views, served as a defensive position for much of the 20th century.

Continue on East Rd along the tree-lined coast north into Sausalito, where you can stroll the cute town center and enjoy some of the region’s best seafood in a waterfront cafe like Fish. On a Golden Gate Ferry for the 30-minute ride to the Ferry Building in SF, you’ll go right past Alcatraz.

Unfurling like an eel in New York City’s East River, Roosevelt Island is a full 2 miles long yet a mere 800ft across at its widest point.

This long sliver of prime real estate has a fascinating history: for almost 150 years, it was the site of numerous hospitals, prisons, asylums and other grim institutions to which “undesirable” patients and inmates were banished. Over the last half-century, however, a remarkable planned community has taken root, with some 12,000 New Yorkers who live a uniquely low-key version of big-city life now calling the redeveloped island home.

In recent years, further grand projects – including a mighty memorial park and a cutting-edge tech campus – have continued to put space between the island’s troubled history and its lovely present, drawing visitors from all over. And the preferred way to get to the island may be the most exciting part of any excursion here.

Intrigued yet? Here’s how to get to know Roosevelt Island, in six ways.

Hang out (literally) in NYC’s only cable car

Despite its super-central location, Roosevelt Island remained unconnected to the rest of the city for centuries. Today, a road bridge to Queens, a subway stop and a new-ish ferry terminal offer many ways to cross the water – yet none compares to what might be the island’s most famous attraction.

There might be no better ride for the money in New York than the iconic red cable car (or aerial tram) that departs from Midtown Manhattan. Gripping fast-moving steel cables above, the bus-sized cabin quickly makes a vertiginous ascent (almost 250ft!) in a couple of minutes, as it floats with surprising smoothness between a forest of high rises and the tower of the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge. Before you know it, the East River is beneath you, and the skyline becomes a spectacular panorama as the tram whisks you across the water. The descent comes quickly – hopefully before you’ve had time to recall that harrowing rescue scene from Spider-Man. All for the price of one MetroCard swipe.

Detour: On your way up, you might catch a quick glimpse of a historic stone-fronted structure between the ultra-modern buildings of E 60th St. Dating to the 18th century, the Mount Vernon Hotel was built as a country inn for day-trippers escaping the clamor of the city, whose limits then ended many miles downtown. (Who needs the Hamptons?) The improbably preserved building offers a fascinating glimpse into Manhattan’s bucolic past.

Consider the island’s grim history at the ruins of the Smallpox Hospital

Native Americans first arrived on Roosevelt Island some 12,000 years ago, before Dutch colonists “purchased” the land in the 17th century and cleared it for farmland. The Blackwell later family settled the island over four generations before selling the whole lot – then known as Blackwell’s Island – to the government in 1828. (The deal was negotiated on the porch of Blackwell House, a 1796 mansion that still stands.)

Over the following century, New York City authorities turned the island into a complex of institutions designed to house – or, really, to get rid of – some of the city’s most vulnerable populations. A notorious prison, insane asylum, workhouse and hospitals for patients with smallpox, typhus and other infectious diseases soon gave Blackwell’s Island a well-deserved reputation for Dickensian squalor.

Happily, these institutions are long gone, with parks, playgrounds and other public spaces today occupying their former sites. Yet one physical trace of this past remains: the ruins of the Smallpox Hospital, to the island’s south. Now covered in ivy and hollowed out by the elements, this castle-like pile (now fenced off for safety) once housed patients who suffered greatly – or worse. As you take in the decaying structure’s eerie appeal, spare a thought for those who visited Roosevelt Island through no choice of their own.

Local tip: A row of cherry trees grows on the waterside pathway that leads from the tram to the island’s southern tip. Come April, they put on quite the show – and shots of these glorious white and pink blossoms against the backdrop of Manhattan will activate major FOMO among your followers.

Feel the calming grandeur of Franklin D Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park

The last project of master architect Louis Kahn, this monument to the legacy of President Franklin D Roosevelt (the island’s namesake) was left unrealized until 38 years after Kahn’s death. The stark yet uplifting result was well worth the wait. After ascending a grand set of marble steps just beyond the Smallpox Hospital, visitors traverse a lawn, flanked with elegantly planted trees, that tapers to a bust of FDR, the text of his famous “Four Freedoms” speech engraved on marble slabs that flank the sculpture. On the other side of the panels lies the pièce de résistance: “The Room,” a wide, water-level terrace that turns the very southern tip of the island, with New York’s skyline unfolding all around, into an extraordinary space for quiet reflection.

Local tip: From here, you’ll enjoy perhaps the best view in town of the modernist United Nations complex. The formation of this multilateral institution – and the establishment of its seat in New York – is one of FDR’s many important legacies.

Meet the start-up founders of tomorrow at the Cornell Tech campus

Put on a hoodie and sport sandals with white socks, and you might just pass for a student at Cornell Tech, a cutting-edge campus that’s been a work in progress (from scratch) over the last 15 years – with much more to come. Within these ultra-high-tech buildings, entrepreneurs and graduate students studying computer science, design and business engage in hands-on learning, exchange ideas and launch new companies. (Chances are at least one of them will achieve a trillion-dollar market cap someday.) While the university buildings are off-limits to visitors, the appealingly landscaped grounds feature plenty of lawns and seating areas for the use of laptop-toting students and interlopers alike. Take an alfresco break here for a taste of campus life you’ll find only in New York.

Local tip: After a stressful day in class (even if you’re just playing pretend), nothing lifts the spirits by lifting a glass at the Panorama Room, an 18th-floor bar atop the Graduate, a hotel on the campus. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll enjoy some of the best views of the city around (and there’s stiff competition).

Cycle the island’s perimeter to get a sense of New York City’s mighty infrastructure

The presence of very few cars on Roosevelt Island makes it a cyclist’s paradise, and a bikeable path encircles the island’s entire perimeter. Fresh air, river views and minimal traffic all make for prime pedaling – yet a bike tour of the island provides something even more special: a visual X-ray of the mighty systems that keep New York City going.

Start at the tram station by looking up at the underside of the Queensboro Bridge, with a lattice of steel beams that supports the weight of more than 150,000 crossing vehicles each day. Its four towers topped with decorative spires, this sturdily braced 1909 span is New York City infrastructure at its most Gotham City–esque. Pedaling up the island’s west side, take note of the half-exposed lanes of FDR Dr just across the water, which whisk traffic along the edge of the East River, and underneath the Manhattan apartment buildings, hospitals and parks that are dramatically cantilevered above. With its giant smokestack, the massive power station at E 74th St from 1902 is a beaux-arts marvel. A complementary hulk lies across from the island’s east side: the waterfront, 2480-megawatt Ravenswood Generating Station in Queens, which powers Times Square marquees, Wall Street trading desks, Fashion Week spotlights and everything else that makes the city hum. At the north end of the island, a 50ft-tall lighthouse dates from 1872. Made from locally quarried gneiss (and allegedly built by inmates incarcerated on the island), the beacon is a reminder of the fierce currents that still bedevil ships in these waters.

Local tip: Bring your bike on the F train; the island’s deep station here has elevators serving both platforms. If you’re more ambitious, a protected bike line runs parallel to the East River along Queens’ Vernon Blvd, connecting to the Roosevelt Island Bridge.

Savor the quiet

A 1969 master plan for Roosevelt Island’s redevelopment called for a mix of apartment towers and green spaces free of cars, a vision that came to pass in the decades that followed. And the residential core of the island is today a neighborhood unlike any other in New York.

While the centrally planned apartment blocks that radiate off Main St aren’t architectural marvels, the plan’s harmonious whole – which includes connecting footpaths and ample greenery – is far more gracious than the sum of its parts. What’s most remarkable is the sheer quiet of it all – the sounds of children playing or joggers huffing interrupted only rarely by a passing car or bus. You won’t be able to catch a cab here. But then again, you won’t need to.

Morocco is home to some of the world’s most striking mountain landscapes. Ramble through fragrant forests of cedar trees and walk along verdant valleys where time has stood still. More adventurous hikers scale North Africa’s tallest peak or head off on demanding multi-day treks across rugged massifs.

With peaks and valleys to suit all abilities, atmospheric eco-friendly lodgings, and a tasty tagine waiting for you at the journey’s end, here are our top picks for hiking in Morocco.

1. Jebel Toubka

Best high-altitude hike

27km (16.7 miles), 2 days, hard

The High Atlas – Morocco’s loftiest mountain range, known to the locals as Idraren Draren or Mountains of Mountains – runs diagonally across the country for almost 1000km (620 miles) and is a trekker’s paradise, especially in spring and autumn.

The biggest draw is the ascent of Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 4167m (13,670ft). Much of the trekking is done on the first day, a six-hour hike zigzagging upwards through a craggy valley. Stop to acclimatize and share campfire tales with fellow climbers at a rustic refuge, before setting off at first light to scale the snow-dusted summit. You’ll need snow equipment in the winter months, but if you’re blessed with brilliant blue skies, you’ll have views all the way to the Sahara.

With more time, you can take on the challenging week-long Toubkal Circuit and, as well as tackling Toubkal, you’ll meander between remote Amazigh (Berber) villages, crossing fertile valleys, rocky massifs, and panoramic passes.

The mountain village of Imlil (90 minutes from Marrakesh) is a hub for hikers and the place to hire a mountain guide (compulsory in Toubkal National Park) and book a bed at one of the refuges. There are plenty of other treks to try: stay in style at the sustainable Kasbah du Toubkal and you can hike to their remote lodge in the Azzaden Valley.

2. The Monkey Trail (3M Squared Loop Trail)

Best for wildlife watching

7.4km (4.6 miles), 2.5 hours, moderate

Close to Ifrane – aka Morocco’s Little Switzerland, thanks to its Alpine architecture and spotless streets – Ifrane National Park is spread over 500 sq km (310 sq miles) of the Middle Atlas mountains. It’s famed for its fragrant forests of Atlas cedars and troops of endangered Barbary macaques. The one-of-a-kind primate was once widespread in Europe and North Africa, but is now only found in small pockets of Morocco and Algeria’s northern mountain ranges.

The park has several well-marked, easy-to-moderate trails, but – as the name suggests – the Monkey Trail will give you a good chance of spotting the mischievous macaques, as well as other forest residents, such as foxes and wild boar. It’s great for trail runners and mountain bikers too, since it’s shaded by lofty oak and cedar trees.

Enlist a guide, such as Saleh Boudaoud, to discover more about the park’s flora and fauna and the threats the macaques face from human interaction and poaching for the exotic pet trade.

3. Akchour Waterfall and God’s Bridge

Best for waterfall lovers

13.8km (8.6 miles), 5 hours, moderate

Tucked into the green folds of the Rif Mountains, charming Chefchaouen is famed for its endlessly photogenic blue-hued medina. But once you’ve explored its cobbled streets and people-watched from its pretty squares, take to the trails of the vast Talassemtane National Park with its luminous waterfalls and forests of firs.

This popular hike starts in the village of Akchour, around 45 minutes from Chefchaouen by grand-taxi. Head towards the hydroelectric dam and a fork in the road where the well-trodden left-hand trail dips through evergreen forest and between moss-covered rock formations. After around 45 minutes you’ll reach the first waterfall, but keep going until you reach the larger cascade that plunges into an emerald-green pool – perfect for a refreshing dip before you make your way back to the dam.

Once there, you can extend the hike by taking the right-hand trail and the steep scramble to God’s Bridge, a natural arch straddling two cliffs. Then stop at one of the roadside stalls near the Akchour end of the trail for a well-earned tagine, or immerse yourself in the park with a stay in a stunning wood-and-stone cabin at the eco-friendly Ermitage d’Akchour.

4. Jebel Saghro Circuit

Best for off-the-beaten-track trekking

90km (56 miles), 5 days, moderate

Sandwiched between the High Atlas and the Sahara’s shifting sands in southeast Morocco, the Saghro Massif possesses a stark beauty, with yawning canyons, flat-topped mesas, otherworldly rock formations, and arid desert-scapes.

Its stony tracks are frequented more by the semi-nomadic Aït Atta tribe than tourists. And while there are steep ascents and descents, trails are generally lower-lying and less challenging than the High Atlas. Its highest peak, Amalou n’ou Mansour, sits at 2712m (16,85ft) and most passes are between 1500m (932ft) and 2500m (1553ft).

The Saghro Circuit takes five days starting at Tagdilt near Boumalne Dadès and ending at Kalaat M’Gouna. Add an extra day to reach the peak of Jebel Kouaouch (2595m/1612ft) with views to rival those from Toubkal. If you’re going without a guide, you’ll need to be confident at navigating and stock up on supplies before you set off.

And there are plenty of shorter out-and-back trails and one-way walks. To the south, the Kasbah Hôtel Aït Omar in the kasbah-studded, oasis town of Nkob makes a great base, with its vegetarian-friendly restaurant and insider tips for routes and local guides.

5. Moulay Idriss to Volubilis

Best for culture vultures

4km (2.5 miles), 45 minutes one-way, easy

Just 90 minutes from Fez and 40 minutes from Meknes, the holy, hilltop town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is the perfect starting point for a leisurely ramble to the archaeological site of Volubilis, a far-flung outpost of the Roman Empire turned Unesco World Heritage Site.

Walk downhill from the bus station to a roundabout where signs point you in the direction of a slower pace of life, as you wind your way through pine forests, olive groves, and across a fertile plain towards triumphal arches, ancient columns, and glittering mosaics. Head back to the whitewashed town on foot, by taxi or donkey and refuel with a traditional three-course feast on the terrace of Dar Zerhoune while you drink in the views.

6. Todra Gorge

Best for day hikes

11.4km (7.08 miles), 4-5 hours, easy

The Loop Hike trail at Todra Gorge is one of the most popular day trips on the eastern side of the Atlas Mountains. Intrepid travelers with experience on this trail say it’s safe for unguided hiking, with inspiring 360-degree views of the gorge’s 300m-high walls along the path. The gorge is the starting point for several hiking trail options, but the Loop Hike keeps things scenic and easy. Panoramic views on this trail also afford stellar views of surrounding mountainscapes without a strenuous climb. 

Intrepid travelers recommend this adventure as a worthwhile day stop while commuting between Marrakesh and the Sahara Desert. The self-guided loop trail starts at the northern end of the gorges to Tizgui, a Berber village at the southern entrance. In addition to otherworldly activities on foot, rock climbing is also a major draw for mountaineers. 

Standout stays nearby include Hotel Xaluca Dadès, a 106-room accommodation north of the city center, and Auberge Le Festival, a tranquil 7-room eco-hotel. Due to its remote nature, both hotels are great places to dine, and Auberge Le Festival is said to regularly entertain with live music. Restaurant La Petite Gorge is one the best spots for traditional Moroccan eats, and the natural beauty surrounding Kasbah Petit Nomade while eating tagine or couscous adds to the majestic feel of your visit. 

7. M’Goun Circuit

Best for extended multi-day hikes

200km (124.3 miles), 5-10 days, hard

This lesser-visited hiking path is arduous, but the epic trek takes hikers through the Ait Bougamez and M’Goun valleys. The rewards of choosing this circuit include lush valley views, snow-dusted mountains and what many consider one of the best places to visit in Morocco for hiking. Plus, its high point – Jebel M’Goun (4,071m) – is the second-highest peak in North Africa.

Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for this trail since the journey is virtually unmarked, and it’s more tricky after a snowfall. Navigating the terrain can be challenging at times, and guides can assist with following local customs or facilitating support during an emergency. Local Berber guides also typically provide a cook, tents, mules and other supplies for the multi-day trek. 

The primary accommodation options are trekking refuges and homestays. For a high-end stay and the area’s best formal dining setting, consider a modest mix of old and new worlds at La Kasbah du M’Goun. 

Tips for hiking in Morocco

Finding others to hike with

Hiking in Morocco is a bucket list item for many, so finding hiking partners is fairly simple. Before you depart, check out travel groups on social media. They’re a great place to connect with other travelers on similar itineraries. The best times to visit Morocco are spring and fall, and if you’re planning a trip during these seasons, you’re more likely to find large groups with whom you can plan a last-minute trek.

As for finding local guides to lead your hike, that depends on your trail of choice, as each trail has its own operating procedures. Many trails are fairly challenging, so it’s important to confirm if your hike requires local guidance. Before hiring a guide, it’s essential to ask questions to get a feel for the guide and manage each other’s expectations.

Is it safe to hike solo in Morocco?

In many cases, hiking solo in Morocco is generally safe when following a few  precautions. A Moroccan contact should know where you are at all times (and when you’ll be back). Reserve solo hiking for daytime hours and always remain aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re a a woman hiking alone.

On a cliffside in Fisterra, Spain, I sipped orujo de hierbas (herbal brandy) while victorious hikers rested on rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Yet unlike those tourists with battered clothes and stamped Pilgrim Passports, I hadn’t arrived at Spain’s Costa da Morte by foot. Rather, I was road-tripping across the Camino de Santiago, one of the world’s most popular pilgrimage routes. 

While the Camino splinters into multiple paths with various starting points, the Camino Frances ranks as the most popular track. It intersects with the Spanish regions of Galicia and Castilla y León, which widely appeal to hikers in search of spiritual clarity, a sense of accomplishment, or, quite simply, a nice, long walk. 

Northwest Spain, however, is far more than its trails. The Way of St. James pairs the landscapes of Green Spain with Gothic cathedrals, family-run wineries and longstanding traditions that range from the crafty to the spooky. Here, you’ll find eight reasons why Galicia and Castilla y León warrant a pilgrimage in their own right — with or without your hiking boots. 

1. Chase waterfalls en route to the end of the world

While the Camino technically ends in Santiago de Compostela, many pilgrims extend their journeys further west to Muxía and Fisterra, fittingly nicknamed “the end of the world” as one of mainland Spain’s westernmost points. Because I was traveling by car, I visited both locations in one scenic day, breaking up the drive with a stop at the Ézaro waterfall. The peaceful landscape counts as Europe’s only river to meet the ocean via waterfall.

Also leading to the world’s end is the quaint fishing town of Muros, where curious dolphins frequently surface in the harbor. 

Planning tip: Access to the waterfall is both free and straightforward; there’s a parking lot with a boardwalk that leads to Ézaro, as well as bathrooms, food stands and kiosks to stamp your pilgrim passport. A little ways away, the Mirador de Ézaro overlooks the coastline, with sweeping vistas that demonstrate where, exactly, the river meets the sea. 

2. Take a boat trip to the wine region of Ribeira Sacra 

For an experience that’s truly off the beaten path, head to the Ribeira Sacra: a dramatic wine landscape known for the production of Mencía. Divided by a series of rivers, the Ribeira Sacra’s steep mountains contain sloping vineyards that are best explored by boat. 

I took a boat tour that drifted along the Miño River before stopping at a riverfront wine cellar. There, I savored a lunch of chestnut jamón, Galician-style empanadas, and, of course, plenty of red wine. Some boat tours serve wine onboard, while others – particularly those near the Sil Canyon – beckon to birdwatchers with peregrine falcons and the occasional golden eagle.

Planning tip: Pricing and hours for boat experiences depend on your length of visit and group size; my group tour cost roughly €42 Euros (US$45) and spanned two and a half hours — the perfect amount of time for a leisurely lunch and sightseeing. Even if you’re visiting the Ribeira Sacra by car, you should pre-book your tasting. Some wineries accommodate walk-ins, but depending on the winery’s size, you’re never guaranteed a seat without a reservation. 

3. Tour an 18th-century palace-turned-winery 

If you prefer your wineries on land, you’ll find one of the most memorable tasting experiences in Castilla y León’s El Bierzo wine region. Palacio de Canedo, an 18th-century palace, functions as a hotel, restaurant and winery, specializing in red Mencía and white Godello wines, with more than 30 hectares (74 acres) of vineyards. 

Before you pick up your fork, hop aboard the property’s open-air trolley and embark on something of a wine safari. As you weave between the vines, you’ll feel the terrain firsthand – and whet your appetite for a wine-paired tasting menu. Don’t leave El Bierzo without trying botillo, a regional meat specialty.

Planning tip: A tour on Palacio de Canedo’s “Carroviñas” costs between €48 and €60 (US$52-65) for two people and, like most attractions along the Camino, is best reserved prior to your arrival. If you’re planning to eat, the restaurant tends to fill up, so make your reservation in advance. 

4. Go city-hopping between Burgos and León 

It’s easy to mistake the Camino de Santiago for a quiet respite that’s all about nature. The trail certainly overlaps with some of Spain’s most pristine scenery, but it also passes through lively cities brimming with Gothic architecture and tapas bars. The equally spectacular – yet very different – cathedrals in Burgos and León anchor large plazas, perfect for sightseeing and people-watching in tandem. In León’s San Isidoro Museum, you’ll also find a gilded, bejeweled chalice rumored to be the Holy Grail. 

If you’re not tired from your hike – or if you, like me, are following the Camino’s shell-engraved footpaths insofar as they guide you to dinner – don’t hesitate to wander. Whether you stroll along the riverbank in Burgos or embark on a tapas crawl in León’s Barrio Húmedo (try Rúa 11), end your outing with a generous pour of vermouth. I ordered a glass steps from Burgos’ cathedral at Vermuteria Victoria, which also serves its trademark spirit in the form of vermouth-fried cod.

Planning tip: Situated roughly two hours apart, Burgos and León warrant at least one day each. Hotels abound in each city’s old town, though neither destination is particularly huge. Regardless of where you stay, you’ll never be too far from your chosen activity. 

5. Play cheesemonger for the day 

Less than two miles from the Camino’s path, Ecoagroturismo Arqueizal pairs tours of traditional farmhouses with lessons in cheesemaking. While visiting the farm, I turned milk into cow cheese, stirring, straining, and forming it by hand. This activity not only supplied me with a spread for the next morning’s pan gallego (traditional bread), but also grounded me in rural Galician life. 

Alternatively, if you prefer sweet to savory, head west to the “living honey museum,” Enredo do Abelleiro. For a few euros, you’ll don a beekeeping suit and witness the intricacies of worker bees directly from their hive. In between these two sites, the women-run Milhulloa Coop directly overlaps with the Camino Frances and teaches tourists how to make natural cosmetics of their choosing. 

Planning tip: If you’re not hiking, you’ll need a car to reach any of the above locations, all of which are an hour or less from Santiago de Compostela. Make sure to book any hands-on activities or tours in advance, whether you want to make toothpaste or cheese. If you’re looking to simply shop for a jar of fresh honey or shampoo, however, you can stop by either the Milhulloa Coop or Enredo do Abelleiro according to their hours listed online. 

6. Marvel at Gaudi’s designs and eat your fill of chocolate

Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia may be under construction until 2026, but Astorga’s Palacio de Gaudí can help fill that architectural void. Antoni Gaudí started work on the palace in 1988, and his trademark style characterizes the building’s airy, whimsical interior and curved, Neo-Gothic facade. Outside the palace’s grounds, however, chocolate is akin to the town’s architect, with a presence in Astorga that dates back to the 1600s. For tourists with a sweet tooth – or pilgrims in search of a sugar rush – tour the museum of chocolate. Then, sip thick, Spanish-style hot chocolate from La Cepedana, the city’s most historic chocolatier.

Planning tip: Astorga condenses the best of a Spanish city – world-class architecture, traditional dishes like Casa Maragata’s cocido maragato, and one-of-a-kind pastries in La Flor y Nata’s merles – into a charming, walkable town. Even if you’ve rented a car, you likely won’t need it to explore Astorga as most activities are centrally located. 

7. Step back in time at a 7th-century forge 

As one of Spain’s oldest blacksmiths, Ponferrada’s Herrería de Compludo transports visitors to the 7th century with technology that’s withstood the test of time. After a short trail hike to the forge’s stone building, I met fourth-generation blacksmith, Manuel Sanchez, who demonstrated his family’s hydraulic system; operations depend on a water wheel, which helps fuel the fire. In a matter of minutes, Sanchez made and engraved a sharp iron tool over that crackling flame. What better indicator of medieval engineering’s longevity? 

Planning tip: The trail hike begins in the parking lot and requires a few minutes of walking over mostly flat terrain. However, the route isn’t paved, and parts of the ground are slightly rocky, so good shoes and a sunny day make for an ideal visit. The blacksmith opens at set times in both the morning and afternoon, though the forge’s website recommends booking your visit in advance. At the very least, double-check the forge’s hours before driving, as they’re subject to change. 

8. Boost your spirits with queimada 

If a visit to the forge isn’t fiery enough, up the ante with a ceremonial queimada: a flaming alcoholic beverage that combines orujo, coffee beans, citrus peels, and sugar. Intended to dissuade sinister spirits, the punch catches fire while a spell is recited. Tourists can book queimada shows and tastings, though many of Galicia’s bars, hotels, and restaurants also offer the option.

While the tradition is rumored to have Celtic roots, Galicians still make queimada for June’s “Witches Night,” as well as select celebrations and family gatherings. Given Northwest Spain’s reputation for rainfall, you need a way to stay warm, after all.

Planning tip: I participated in my first queimada at the restaurant of Pazo Santa Maria. As the ritual requires a clay pot and matching set of cups, it’s not an experience the hotel – or most Galician restaurants – readily advertises on the menu, so my group asked about partaking before we even arrived. To guarantee your own queimada, book a specific experience online or inquire with your restaurant when making a reservation.

How to travel the Camino by car

Rent a car: If you’re not doing the Camino by foot, a car is a must-have. You can rent a vehicle in any of the trail’s major cities, many of which also have airports. You’ll likely find the most options for car rentals in Madrid, which sits less than three hours from Burgos. Directly on the trail, you can alternatively rent a vehicle in Santiago de Compostela, Burgos, and León. 

Try a bus tour: If you’d rather not drive yourself, base yourself at the Camino’s end in Santiago de Compostela, and choose from a variety of bus tours that visit Fisterra, Ézaro, and Muxía. You can also rent a car for day trips from Santiago to less-trafficked Galician sites, none of which are too far from the city. 

When to go: As for when to take your getaway, plan for fall or spring. While summer has the best weather, it’s also the Camino’s busiest time; pilgrims tend to hike between April and October. The shoulder seasons, therefore, come with limited crowds and still-decent sunshine, though you’ll always want to pack a raincoat and extra layers.

Your heart pounds overtime with excitement as you finally descend to the bottom of a dive site. A whole new world unfolds before your eyes. From walls to reefs, wrecks to piers, scuba diving allows you to tap into your inner adventurous self and see an unlimited amount of fascinating marine life in its natural habitat.

Many Caribbean islands offer diving during all seasons so your chances of spotting diverse organisms – from sea horses to reef sharks, turtles to shrimp – is possible year-round. Getting certified through PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) is a must and can be done on most Caribbean islands, allowing you to use your certification for life (although you may benefit from a refresher course if you have a large gap between dives). From night dives to shipwrecks, you’ll see that the variation in these underwater landscapes is endless. Here are our favorite dive destinations in the Caribbean.

1. Bat Cave, St Vincent

What to expect: An underwater marvel awaits at St Vincent’s Byahaut Bat Cave: you swim through a fissure between two rocks in order to enter the dive site. Look up at the top of the cave to see dozens of bats hanging out on the ledges before making your descent. There is plenty of marine life at around 40–60ft (12–18m) deep, including eagle rays, pipefish and seahorses.

What to know: Book an early morning dive trip to Bat Cave to avoid the crowds that come on other dive boats. Seeing the bats inside the cave is a great bucket list diving experience for the adventurous.

How to make it happen: The Sandals St Vincent Dive Center offers all-inclusive diving while staying on the property, including all equipment needed. Alternatively, book your trip through dive operators such as Canouan Scuba Center or Dive St Vincent.

2. Deep Plane, Jamaica

What to expect: In Western Jamaica, near Negril, the Deep Plane dive site offers divers the chance to explore the nooks and crannies of a Cessna 152 aircraft wreck, for which the site is named. There is also a robust and active coral reef surrounding the wreck. Once you descend to the plane, look for colorful coral crusting along the wreck as well as a variety of marine life, including turtles, sharks, sea fans and various rays living on the coral. 

What to know: Diving is possible year-round, but since the plane sits at 90ft deep (27m) it is recommended for advanced divers only, which is those with a PADI Advanced Open Water Certification or higher. 

Make it happen: You can rent equipment and take PADI dive courses at the ScubaCaribe dive shop in Negril. The dive instructors are friendly and knowledgeable about first-timers’ concerns like answering questions about depth, safety, and proper equipment. You can also book through One Love Scuba Dive Center, which is on the Seven Mile Beach at Traveller’s Beach Resort. Any dives booked through the company include transportation from your Negril accomodations.

3. Fort Young House Reef, Dominica

What to expect: If you are looking for an exhilarating night dive, head for the town of Roseau in the southern part of the island of Dominica, which is home to the Fort Young House Reef. The plentiful sponge life and soft coral that attaches to the underwater volcanic rock at this dive site attracts nocturnal marine life, like octopus and squid, and tons of moray eels, which you can view using your dive light. 

What to know: The site is easily accessible via a 5-minute boat ride from the Fort Young Hotel dock in Roseau. The hotel itself is geared for scuba divers with its dive shop and scuba school. Groups of divers regularly meet in the onsite restaurant to swap stories.

Make it happen: The PADI dive instructors at the Fort Young Hotel offer night dives to all certification levels year-round and you can rent all equipment from the dive shop there.

4. Stingraysted, St Croix

What to expect: Stingraystead in St Croix, the US Virgin Islands, is a plateau with a sloping wall of sand on the Green Cay Slope Mini Wall System filled with coral heads. This site has a depth of 32ft (10m) for the mooring and is a popular place for stingrays of all sizes as well as flounders and jawfish. The wall starts at 40ft (12m) and then drops thousands of feet to the ocean floor.

What to know: With a max dive depth of 60ft (18m), Stingraysted is a site that welcomes beginners and advanced divers. 

Make it happen: Dive boats head out from the Christiansted boardwalk marina. Dive shops located along the boardwalk include Dive Experience, St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures and Latitude 17 Scuba. Each dive shop offers complete sets of diving equipment for rent.

5. STENAPA Reef, Sint Eustatius

What to expect: The island of Sint Eustatius has a marine park called STENAPA (St Eustatius National Marine Park) and this reef unfolds to a maximum depth of 60ft (18m). The artificial reef includes a combination of sunken items like a tugboat, pieces of broken shipwrecks, and long metal pipes created to attract marine life to the reserve along the artificial reef. Some of the organisms to spot include barracuda, sponges, French Angelfish and Caribbean reef sharks.

What to know: Diving in the national marine park is a must, but if you have a day break from diving, it’s worth a visit to the dormant volcano on the island, the Quill, which offers 8 trails that weave throughout the thorny woodland and elfin forest. You can take a self-guided tour and look for seedless breadfruit hanging from their parent trees, see wild-growing, edible raspberries that bloom naturally in the forest, or see the sway of small round fruit growing on grape trees.

Make it happen: Underwater exploration can be led by PADI-certified instructors at Scubaqua, a local dive shop situated on the black sand beach in the Lowertown harbor area.

6. Mike’s Maze, Sint Maarten

What to expect: For beginner divers, Mike’s Maze in Sint Maarten is a great choice due to the maximum depth being only 50ft (15m). However, there is still so much to see at this location at this depth: small overhangs and shallow caves allow for you to test your curiosity in a mild way. Sit back and watch a theater-worthy display of active green sea turtles eating off the sea grass, an array of textured sea stars lying on sand or – if you’re lucky – a few reef sharks patrolling the site.

What to know: It’s best to travel to Sint Maarten during the low season (the peak tourist seasons are December through April and July and August). I like the low season because there are often less people in your dive group. You will be able to spread out easier on the boat and you have more attention from the dive instructor. The summer months are the rainy season but this rarely causes disruption for diving. As long as it is not a heavy storm, visibility will be adequate for an enjoyable dive.

Make it happen: Rent all of your necessary gear at the Dive Sint Maarten dive shop located in the bustling Bobby’s Marina.

7. Coral Gables, Turks and Caicos

What to expect: Only a 15-minute boat ride from the shore of Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, the Coral Gables dive site is located in the island’s Princess Alexandra National Marine Park, which has been a protected marine area for over 30 years. The dive site is great for beginners because the maximum depth is only 30ft (9m) and with this shallow underwater landscape, the sunlight penetrates nicely illuminating marine life like peacock flounders disguising themselves on the sandy bottom and yellowtail snappers drifting around the colorful fan corals. 

What to know: The visibility at most dive sites in Turks and Caicos is extremely clear year-round and in January through March you have the best chance at spotting rays, dolphins and migrating humpback whales.

Make it happen: Stay at the Club Med Turkoise and take a PADI course there.

8. Superman’s Flight, St Lucia

What to expect: Drift diving – where you ride the underwater current while taking in the sights around you – is a thrilling experience where you barely have to kick or move your body as you glide along. Superman’s Flight in St Lucia was named after the cliff above the dive site where a scene from Superman II (1980) was filmed. The quick current that flows along the sloping wall allows you to feel like a superhero while taking in parrotfish, turtles, sponges and colorful soft corals as you drift past. 

What to know: If you have down time, one of the most popular experiences in St Lucia is taking a mud bath at the drive-in Sulphur Springs at the Soufrier Volcano of which the mud is said to detoxify the body. You can dive in the morning and have time to visit the mud bath in the early evening.

Make it happen: The best place for divers to stay in St Lucia is at the all-inclusive Sandals Grande St Lucian. All equipment is available at the onsite dive shop and dives are included as part of your stay.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, so they say, but there’s no need to stay inside the city limits on a trip to the casino city. Beyond the crowds and bright lights of Las Vegas lies the uplifting emptiness of the Mojave Desert – the gateway to some of Nevada’s most dynamic landscapes.

People who enjoy wild and lonely places will love driving the scenic and remote back roads that radiate out from Las Vegas, following routes made famous by rock-and-roll singers and Hunter S Thompson. Few cities in America will put you within day-tripping range of so many iconic American sights.

So enjoy your fill of the roulette tables, bars and restaurants downtown, then hop in the car to experience the best of Nevada and beyond on these thrilling day trips from Las Vegas.

1. Grand Canyon

Travel Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

No matter how much you read about the Grand Canyon or how many photographs you’ve seen of its plunging depths, nothing really prepares you for seeing America’s most famous natural wonder in the flesh. It’s so startlingly familiar and iconic you can’t take your eyes off it.

The canyon’s immense size, the sheer intensity of the light and shadows at sunrise or sunset and the tremendous natural forces that caused it to come into existence make this a place to explore slowly. Don’t rush the experience by trying to squeeze everything into a single day. You can reach the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in less than five hours, so stay a couple of days and immerse yourself in its grandeur.

How to get to the Grand Canyon: If you really can only spend a day, you’ll need an early start to make it back the same night. If possible, spread the trip over several days to see the canyon from multiple angles.

For a day trip from Vegas, the closest section of the canyon is Grand Canyon West, with its famous Skywalk, administered by the Hualapai nation. It’s a 2½-hour drive via US Highway 93, and a shuttle bus will ferry you to the viewpoints from the car park.

Allow 4½ hours to reach the South Rim from Las Vegas, following sections of US Highway 93, Route 66 and Arizona State Route 64. There are places to stay both inside and outside Grand Canyon National Park.

2. Red Rock Canyon

Travel Time: 20–30 minutes

The dramatic vistas of Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area are revered by Las Vegas locals and adored by visitors from around the world. Thurst upwards by extreme tectonic forces, the 3000ft-high red sandstone escarpment that rises from the valley floor was once a section of ancient seabed some 65 million years ago.

A scenic 13-mile drive from Las Vegas serves up mesmerizing views of the canyon’s most striking features, with numerous hiking trails and rock-climbing areas radiating out from roadside parking areas. For more information on the legendary climbs here, check out the resources on the Mountain Project website.

How to get to Red Rock Canyon: The canyon is about 13 miles from the central Strip along Nevada State Route 159 – a 20-minute drive. The conservation area begins about three miles from the Vegas suburb of Summerlin.

3. Valley of Fire State Park

Travel Time: 1 hour

Dedicated in 1935, Valley of Fire State Park was Nevada’s first state park, and its psychedelic landscape of surreally striped rocks was carved by wind and water over thousands of years. Make the visitor center your first port of call to find out how best to tackle this masterpiece of southwest desert scenery. Within the park boundaries are 40,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone, petrified trees and ancient Native American petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock, accessible via hiking and driving trails, but don’t undertake any hike without plenty of water.

Must-see spots within the valley include the dramatic natural landscapes of White Domes, Rainbow Vista, Fire Canyon and Silica Dome – each as magnificent as it sounds. To learn more about the unique geological features of the park, the visitor center sells guidebooks and maps and takes reservations for guided hikes and ranger-led stargazing expeditions. If you’re there for more than a day, try your luck at securing one of the 72 first-come, first-served primitive campsites.

How to get to Valley of Fire State Park: The Valley of Fire State Park visitor center is about 50 miles northeast of Downtown Las Vegas, signposted off Interstate 15. Drive time is under one hour.

4. Lake Mead

Travel Time: 45 minutes

Created when a whole valley system was flooded by the Hoover Dam in 1936, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a popular boating, swimming and camping destination for Vegas residents. For tourists, a trip here is often tied together with a visit to the nearby Hoover Dam.

The lake lies within a protected area spanning a broad sweep of the unbearably dry Mojave Desert, stretching for 110 miles toward the Grand Canyon. Also here is 67-mile-long Lake Mohave, which runs along the Arizona border, alongside endless miles of spectacular desert scenery to explore on driving routes and a handful of hiking trails.

While most visitors come to Lake Mead to enjoy the water, don’t overlook the hiking here. At Grapevine Canyon near Lake Mohave, a quarter-mile jaunt takes you to a panel of petroglyphs dating back as far as the 11th century CE, and you can boulder-hop further up the gorge, which encloses a ribbon-like stream trickling down from a spring.

Longer routes include a 3.7-mile hike through five tunnels following the former railway line that once linked the site of the Lake Mead Visitor Center to the Hoover Dam. The most challenging hike in the park is a three-mile, 800ft descent to a series of hot springs set in a slot canyon off Black Canyon. The area can get extremely hot in summer and hiking is not recommended from May to September.

How to get to Lake Mead: The most visited northern section of Lake Mead is less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas along Lake Mead Blvd, while the southern shores can be reached via US Highway 93.

5. Hoover Dam

Travel Time: 1 hour

Day-trippers often visit Hoover Dam and Lake Mead together on the same trip, which makes sense as the lake was created during the construction of the dam in the 1930s. At the height of the Depression, thousands of men and their families migrated here and worked in excruciatingly hot conditions, dangling hundreds of feet above Black Canyon to build this massive 726ft-high arch-gravity dam, completed ahead of schedule and under budget in 1936.

It came at a cost. Ninety-six workers lost their lives building this iconic art deco structure, which has come to define this stark but eye-catching section of the desert. Tours of the dam begin at the Hoover Dam Parking Garage & Visitor Center, and tickets can be booked ahead online.

How to get to Hoover Dam: The Hoover Dam visitor center is a one-hour drive from central Las Vegas along US Highway 93 and Nevada State Route 172. The dam is open from 9am to 5pm, but the last tour of the day leaves at 3:45pm.

6. Spring Mountains

Travel Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

To the west of Las Vegas, the limestone cliffs and forested peaks of the Spring Mountains rise dramatically above the Mojave Desert. This mountainous area is a playground for hiking, mountain biking, camping,  horseback riding, rock climbing and other outdoor activities.

Start your explorations in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area section of Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, where a modern, state-of-the-art interpretive center features educational dioramas, exhibits and artworks. Park rangers are on hand to steer you toward your perfect forest experience.

How to get to the Spring Mountains: The drive from Vegas takes around one hour and 20 minutes, following US Hwy 95 then Nevada State Route 157.

7. Death Valley

Travel Time: 2 hours

The name Death Valley evokes visions of somewhere harsh, hot and hellish – a punishing, barren and lifeless place of Old Testament severity. But closer inspection reveals nature putting on a truly spectacular show. Around this low-lying basin, you’ll find singing sand dunes, water-sculpted canyons, extinct volcanic craters, palm-shaded oases, stark mountains rising to 11,000ft and boulders that seemingly move of their own volition across the desert floor.

There’s also plenty of endemic wildlife, including jackrabbits, bighorn sheep and mountain lions. Start exploring from Dante’s View, where on very clear days, you can simultaneously see the highest point (14,505ft Mt Whitney) and the lowest point (Badwater, at 282ft below sea level) in the contiguous USA.

How to get to Death Valley: The drive to Death Valley from Las Vegas takes a little over two hours, following Interstate 95 and Nevada State Route 373.

8. Zion National Park

Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Get ready for an overdose of awesome. The soaring red-and-white cliffs of Zion Canyon – one of southern Utah’s most dramatic natural wonders – rise high above the Virgin River. Hiking downriver through the tight gorge known as the Narrows or gazing down from the rocky top of Angels Landing after a 1500ft ascent is simply amazing.

That’s just the beginning. For all its awe-inspiring majesty, the park also shields more delicate beauty – rocks that ‘weep’ water, delicate grottoes, hanging gardens and mesa-top meadows of wildflowers. It’s close enough to visit on a day trip from Vegas, but it’s more rewarding to explore slowly, hiking the trails and staying overnight at one of the three park campgrounds or in nearby lodges and B&Bs.

How to get to Zion National Park: The drive from Vegas to Zion National Park takes around 2½ hours, mostly following Interstate 15. If you arrive via the park’s South Entrance, you should expect traffic jams of 30 minutes or more just to pass the entry kiosk. Arrive well before 8am to avoid the worst of the traffic and increase your odds of getting a coveted parking spot.