Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
At 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) long, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the United States. It connects downtown Charleston to the city of Mount Pleasant and the beaches beyond, plus it provides bike and pedestrian paths that lead to unobstructed views of Charleston Harbor and the city skyline.
The Basics
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, also known as the New Cooper River Bridge, is an 8-lane, cable-stayed bridge spanning the Cooper River. You can walk, bike, or drive across it—a sectioned-off portion protects people from cars during the slow-and-steady uphill climb—to reach gorgeous vista points of the Charleston skyline, USS Yorktown, and Charleston Harbor. Or you can pass right under the bridge while enjoying a harbor sightseeing cruise or stand-up paddleboard tour. No matter how you choose to see it, the bridge is worth a visit for its beautiful architecture and stellar views.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a lovely sight for all visitors to Charleston, especially those particularly interested in bridges and engineering.
- A long and steady incline makes this walk a good workout.
- Dress in layers—it’s windy at the top of the bridge.
- Bring snacks, water, and sun protection if you plan to walk the whole bridge. There are no amenities along the way.
- Though technically wheelchair and stroller friendly, they’re not recommended.
How to Get There
The bridge is located on US Route 17 between Charleston and Mount Pleasant. From Charleston, access the bridge on East Bay Street; drive right up to it and park on the street, or park downtown and walk to the bridge. On the Mount Pleasant side, park at nearby Waterfront Park. You can also take CARTA bus 40 from either side of the bridge.
When to Get There
If you’re walking the bridge, plan to leave early in order to give yourself plenty of time and stay out of the midday heat. Sunset is a beautiful time on the bridge, too. Look out for special events at the bridge, too, such as the annual Cooper River Bridge Run, which interferes with regular public access.
Mount Pleasant Day Trip
Popular Charleston itineraries use a trip across the bridge as a great excuse to explore Mount Pleasant highlights such as Waterfront Memorial Park, the USS Yorktown, and Patriots Point. You can also drive across the bridge on your way back from Sullivan’s Island beach, Shem Creek, or other Mount Pleasant attractions.
Address: US Route 17, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
From $ 28
Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial
A Southern, Greek Revival mansion once owned by General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army, the Arlington House is much more than just a beautiful house. Steeped in history and surrounded by hardwood forest, the 1,100-acre plantation was the general’s residence before the war started. It’s now a standing piece of history and a tribute to his military service before, during, and after the war.
Long before it was General Lee’s home, the house claimed its place in US history as the home of George Washington Parke Custis—Martha Washington’s grandson. G.W.P. Custis built one of the nation’s first museums of historic American artifacts, largely from mementos of his childhood at Mount Vernon.
The 19th-century mansion was never intended to be the site of one of the country’s most significant military cemeteries. Bodies were buried here during the Civil War, in part to ensure General Lee was unable to return home after the war ended. What began then has since grown into the Arlington National Cemetery. The estate overlooks the cemetery and the Potomac River, allowing for beautiful views of Washington DC.
Practical Info
Located in the Arlington Cemetery grounds, get to Arlington House by car or metro. It’s a ten minute walk from the Arlington Cemetery Visitor Center and parking area. By metro, take the Blue Line to the Arlington Cemetery subway station. It’s free to enter and open year-round from 9:30am to 4:30pm, with extended hours during summer months.
Address: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30am-4:30pm
From $ 79
Arkansas River
Flowing through four states, the Arkansas River is the sixth longest river in the United States. Its source basin and Arkansas River Canyon can be found in Colorado, where it is a popular spot to go whitewater rafting. It runs past the Rocky Mountains and drops extensively as it flows through the valley, creating the conditions that are good for rafting and kayaking. Depending on the section of the river there is everything from Class IV and V rapids to gentler II and III sections that are ideal for beginners. Waters weave scenically in and through canyons and gorges surrounded by thick forest and snow-capped peaks.
Aside from boating and fishing, visitors to the Arkansas River often utilize the facilities and the beautiful backdrop for activities such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, birding, and rock climbing. There is also great fly fishing in this part of the river, particularly for trout.
Practical Info
The Arkansas River is located about 120 miles from Denver and 90 miles west of Colorado Springs. There may be fees to access parts of the river, but most of the recreation facilities are free to use. There is a visitors center for the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area located in Salida.
Address: Colorado, USA
From $ 59
Arbol de Tule
A tree so fat it seems to strain against the confines of the surrounding square, the Árbol del Tule is at least 2000 years old, which makes it one of the world’s oldest living entities. El Tule is a Montezuma bald cypress (Taxodium mucrunatum), a tree the Aztecs cultivated as an ornamental and a source of medicine. Hoary yet flourishing, the giant has a mesmerizing quality: The bark is so thick and gnarled that various growths have nicknames, including “the pineapple,” “the elephant,” and “Carlos Salinas’s ears” (a reference to former president Carlos Salinas de Gortari).
El Tule is located in the village of Santa María del Tule, 13 km east of the capital. The square surrounding the tree features souvenir shops, snack stands, and the usual army of roving vendors.
El Tule is located in the village of Santa María del Tule, 13 km east of the capital. The square surrounding the tree features souvenir shops, snack stands, and the usual army of roving vendors.
Practical Info:
To get there, drive east on Highway 190, or catch a bus at the second class bus station (Central Camionera de Segunda Clase in Colonia Mercado de Abastos). Buses to El Tule depart every 30 minutes.
Address: Santa María del Tule, Oaxaca, Mexico
Hours: 24 hours
Admission: 30 pesos for a close-up view; you can see the tree from afar for free.
From $ 35
Arena Mexico
Came to Mexico City in search of some adventure? Look no further than Arena Mexico. This hard-hitting lucha libre (Mexican Wrestler) playground is known to wage epic battles of good versus evil in full luchador splendor.
Built in 1968 to hold 16,500 spectators, this was once the largest stadium ever built for professional wrestling – proving what a following the sport has in Mexico City, which is a little different from its American counterpart. In Mexico, the lucha libre match is a fight not just of contestants, but of good vs. evil, and the crowd (of all ages) gets behind the event to cheer for their favorite wrestler in whatever his particular plight might be. Beer is served, the rules are announced (though loosely adhered to), and then all bets are off, so to speak. Truly an event unique to Mexico, if you’re the type of traveler who wants to do how the Romans do, you must attend an event at Arena Mexico and see the tight-masked wrestlers do their thing.
Practical Info
Arena Mexico is located in the Colonia Doctores district of Mexico City at 189 Calle Drive. Ticket prices vary per event.
Address: 189 Calle Drive, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 35
Aquaventuras Park
With a host adrenaline-fueled activities both in and out of the water, swimming areas suitable for all ages, and a dolphin and sea lion park, there’s something for the whole family to get excited about at the Aquaventuras Park. Just minutes from the beach in Neuvo Vallarta, the park centers around a gigantic swimming area, equipped with 10 thrilling water slides and toboggans, a rafting river, and a children’s play zone with a pirate ship, paddling pools, and mini slides.
After making a splash at the aqua park, visitors can also tackle Mexico’s tallest climbing wall, pick up speed on the zip-line course, or take on the ‘Challenge’ obstacle course. Poolside sunbeds and lounge areas, plus a restaurant, cafe, and snack bar are also available.
Practical Info
Aquaventuras Park is located in Nuevo Vallarta, around 5 miles (8 km) from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Adult admission is $25 and youth admission is $19.
Although Viator tours do not include this activity, Aquaventuras Park also offers opportunities to swim with dolphins or sea lions for an additional fee. Prices start from $99 for adults and $89 for children, and reservations are required.
Address: Carretera a Tepic Kilómetro 155, Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
Hours: Daily 10am–5pm
Admission: Adult: $25; Child: $19
From $ 25
Art Deco Historic District
Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is a colorful, vibrant section of the trendy South Beach neighborhood. The area includes about 900 unique buildings—from nautical-themed hotels to pastel-colored mansions—and was the first 20th-century neighborhood to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.
The Basics
Building elements in the district include sleek curves, glass blocks, terrazzo floors, pastel exteriors, and porthole windows and railings that are reminiscent of the ocean liners that docked in the area during that time. Ocean Drive is one of the best-known streets in the area, home to many Mediterranean Revival-style houses. Notable buildings include Casa Casaurina, a 1930s Spanish-style mansion that was once the home of Gianni Versace, and the 1937 Park Central Hotel, where Hollywood legends like Clark Gable and Rita Hayworth were noted regulars.
A walking tour is the most popular way to explore the area around Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road. Some Miami tours, by vehicle or Segway, include art deco–themed walking tours in the Miami Beach Historic District. Group tours available through the Art Deco Welcome Center include themes like gay and lesbian life, Jewish heritage, Miami scandals, and self-guided audio tours; they offer private tours as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Art Deco Historic District is a must for architecture aficionados.
- Restrooms and other amenities are available at the Art Deco Welcome Center, but once you start on a walking tour, there are few public facilities along the way.
- The welcome center houses an art deco museum and gift shop.
- Those with special mobility needs should contact the Art Deco Welcome Center 72 hours in advance of any tour to seek assistance.
How to Get There
The Art Deco Welcome Center, home to the Miami Design Preservation League, is at Ocean Drive and 10th Street, and is a good starting place to pick up brochures and books. The neighborhood stretches to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, Sixth Street to the south, Alton Road to the west, and Dade Boulevard to the north.
When to Get There
The Art Deco Welcome Center is open from 9am to 5pm every day, and different tours run throughout the day. In the summer heat, it’s advisable to book a walking tour in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun—and the crowds. You may want to avoid Miami’s rainy season, June to September.
Art Deco Weekend
The historic district hosts the popular Art Deco Weekend every year, during which Ocean Drive is closed to traffic and vendors showcase vintage and handmade paintings, photography, jewelry, sculptures, posters, and more. There are classic cars, food vendors, and street entertainment, all set against the famous art deco backdrop.
Address: Ocean Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
From $ 8
Area 51
Military bases aren't always tourist attractions, but the so-called Area 51 Air Force facility in Nevada is – mostly because it's top secret.
Historically, the facility known commonly (though not officially) as Area 51 was involved with building and testing experimental and classified aircraft and weapons. Today, what goes on at Area 51 is also classified, but the site is at the epicenter of lots of conspiracy theories.
Many believe that UFOs and the aliens piloting them have been captured by the government and brought to Area 51 for research. This includes items thought to have been found in Roswell, New Mexico. Whatever you believe, an entire tourist industry focused on extraterrestrial life has grown up in the area, including the small town of Rachel, nearest the site.
Practical Info
While you obviously can't get onto Area 51 itself, you can visit the Extraterrestrial Highway and the UFO-themed town of Rachel, and there are day tours that cover the area from Las Vegas.
Address: Nevada, USA, USA
From $ 200
Art Institute of Chicago
Located in Chicago’s Grant Park, the Art Institute showcases 300,000 works of art ranging from ancient works to pieces created by today’s foremost artists. More than 1.5 million visitors from across the globe flock to the museum annually, making it one of Chicago’s most-visited destinations.
The Basics
In addition to permanent collections that include Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist, Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, and Grant Wood’s American Gothic, the Art Institute hosts about 30 special exhibitions each year. These special exhibits showcase the talents of the museum’s world-renowned curatorial staff and highlight specific elements within collections, scientific research, and other innovations. Even the building itself is a work of art—it was constructed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, which later became the World’s Fair.
You may visit the museum independently or as part of a group walking or Segway tour. Purchase skip-the-line access so you can spend more time browsing the collections than waiting in line. Admission to the institute is included in both the Chicago CityPASS and Chicago Explorer Pass cards. It’s also a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wheelchairs and strollers are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Hearing-assist devices are available at the Michigan Avenue checkroom and sign language tours and tours with sighted guides are available with advance notice.
- Dining options include a cafe, outdoor dining, and an upscale Italian restaurant.
How to Get There
The museum is located in downtown Chicago adjacent to Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. There are two easily accessible entrances: one from the historic main building at 111 S. Michigan Avenue and one from the Modern Wing at 159 E. Monroe Street. Several parking garages are nearby, or you can choose valet service. A number of city bus and L Train routes pass within a block or two.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily from 10:30am–5pm, except Thursdays, when it is open until 8pm. General admission is free to all Illinois residents every Thursday evening from 5–8pm. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Gardens at the Art Institute of Chicago
The institute’s works of art aren’t confined to walled buildings—they extend into several outdoor spaces as well. You’ll find traditional flower gardens, mature trees, shade-loving plants, succulents, and more on the grounds, plus one-of-a-kind sculptures, outdoor installations, and reused architectural fragments. The perfect place to take a break from the hubbub inside, the gardens provide a much-appreciated respite to museum visitors looking to take a quick breather.
Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603-6404, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Aquatica
Aquatica Orlando is a sister park of SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove. It follows a South Pacific theme with Australian and New Zealand mascots such as Roa (kiwi), Wae Wae (a takahē), Wai (dolphin) and more. Aquatica Orlando features thrill rides, family fun adventures and several themed animal areas.
Dolphin Plunge is Aquatica Orlando’s signature thrill ride, in which side-by-side tube slides pass through a pool with a pod of Commerson’s dolphins. Hoo Hoo Run is another popular attraction that features a triple-dip multi-person raft slide, and Ihu’s Breakaway Falls is the tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower of its kind in Orlando.
Families will find no shortage of attractions to enjoy here, including Roa’s Rapids, a lazy-river-style attraction with geysers, speed zones and center islands. Loggerhead Lane is another lazy-river-style attraction that passes through the Commerson’s dolphin exhibit, while areas designed for kids include Kata’s Kookaburra Cove and Walkabout Waters.
If you want to check out some animal exhibits, you don’t have to be on Dolphin Plunge or Loggerhead Lane to see the Commerson’s Dolphin exhibit. These dolphins are rather distinctive with primarily black heads, flippers and fins, with white dominating other parts of their bodies. They are small and typically found in the shallow coastal waters of the sub-Antarctic. Another animal exhibit at Aquatica Orlando is the African Spurred Tortoises that are often found along the Sahara Desert’s southern edge.
Practical Info
Since Aquatica is a family park, be sure to wear appropriate swim attire. Swimsuits with buckles, rivets or other sharp objects are not allowed on body slides. If you are bringing children in diapers, they must be in waterproof protectors. If you don’t want to worry about carrying cash or credit cards during your day, get a cashless wristband at any ticket booth, Guest Relations or the Information & Reservations Counter.
Address: 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando 32821, USA
Hours: Daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 44
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Set in the arid landscape just outside Tucson, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum showcases the desert’s flora, fauna, and history through live-animal and multimedia exhibits. The museum spreads across 98 acres (39.7 hectares) of natural desert landscape and contains more than 230 species of animals and 1,200 kinds of plants.
The Basics
Explore the Sonoran Desert via the museum’s walk-in aviary, hummingbird enclosure, desert botanical garden, stingray touch pool, and other wildlife-themed attractions. You can also walk through two miles (3.2 kilometers) of trails, enjoy periodic birds-of-prey demonstrations, and watch presentations about the area’s venomous creatures. The museum also houses an art gallery that showcases local and national artists, as well as a publishing company that produces books and guidebooks for adults and children.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is ideal for families and natural history fans.
- Children can explore and act like desert creatures in the Packrat Playhouse, a simulated desert environment.
- The museum has two restaurants, a coffee bar, and an ice cream shop. The garden also contains two small picnic areas for visitors who bring their own food.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, which are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to Get There
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is located on North Kinney Road in Tucson, just south of Saguaro National Park. Public transportation is limited and free parking is available on site, so it’s a good idea to arrive by car.
When to Get There
The museum and gardens are open year-round, but from April through October it’s wise to avoid hours of peak heat. From May through September, the Cool Summer Nights program offers extended hours on Saturday nights. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the museum and surrounding gardens.
Conservation at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
The Sonoran Desert boasts the greatest variety of plants and animals of any desert in the world, and is also the only place where saguaro cacti are found. The Desert Museum is dedicated to the area’s conservation and works on projects to control invasive grasses and protect pollinator species, among other efforts.
Address: 2021 N Kinney Rd., Tucson, Arizona 85743, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Art Gallery of Ontario
A leading Canadian museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario is home of more than 79,000 works of art in its collection, including First Nations and Inuit carvings, noted Canadian works, and European art from Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso. Toronto-born architect Frank Gehry designed the gallery’s latest renovation.
The Basics
The AGO spans five levels, with galleries dedicated to African art, contemporary art, European art, indigenous and Canadian art, modern art, photography, prints and drawings, and special exhibitions. The museum underwent a large-scale renovation in 2008 by Frank Gehry, the famed American architect who was born in Toronto, and the building itself is a work of art. The Dr. Mariano Elia Hands-On Centre features creative activities for children and families.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets for special exhibitions typically cost extra, but they include regular museum entrance.
- There are two on-site restaurants, caféAGO and AGO Bistro, plus a coffee shop.
- Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the on-site gift shop, shopAGO.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible. A limited supply of wheelchairs and walkers are available to rent and can be reserved in advance.
How to Get There
The AGO is located on Dundas Street between Beverley and McCaul streets, adjacent to Grange Park. To get there by car, take the Gardiner Expressway and exit on Spadina Avenue. Turn right on Dundas Street West. The museum is at the corner of Dundas and Beverley streets. By subway, take the Yonge-University-Spadina line to the St. Patrick stop, a three-block walk from the museum. Or take the Dundas streetcar to McCaul or Beverley streets.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day except Monday. On Wednesday nights from 6 to 9pm, admission to the museum is free, but you should expect longer lines and larger crowds.
Go Down With the Ships
The Thomson Collection of Ship Models, located in the basement of the museum, is a real gem. The models in the collection span 350 years of craftsmanship, including rare examples of 17th and 18th century British dockyard ships. Some, constructed by prisoners of the Napoleonic Wars are made from wood and bone with rigging of silk and human hair.
Address: Baldwin Village, 317 Dundas Street West, Downtown North, Toronto M5T 1G4, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Arizona Science Center
As a non-profit organization, the Arizona Science Center‘s main goal is to entertain and educate people of all ages about science. They opened in 1984 as a small, 10,000 square feet (3,048 square meters) museum featuring select hands-on exhibits. Since its humble beginning, the Arizona Science Center has quickly grown into one of the most popular local attractions in Arizona. Today the Arizona Science Center stretches over 120,000 square feet (36,576 square meters) and is one of the most high-tech museums in the world. With over 40,000 square feet (12,912 square meters) of gallery space, they currently feature over 300 hands-on exhibits in five different themed galleries. There are daily shows in their multi-media Dorrance Planetarium as well as in the giant, five-story IMAX Theater.
The Arizona Science Center is designed around the concept of making learning fun. Exhibits are created to be interactive, encouraging visitors to learn from doing. In addition to the regular exhibitions, you can enjoy a variety of educational programs to help people of all ages have fun with science, such as summer camp programs, adult night outs, and even use of the facilities to host events such as high school proms and birthday parties.
Practical Info
The Arizona Science Center is located in downtown Phoenix within the Heritage and Science Park and sits towards the south end of the park, notably recognized by its unique futuristic architecture designed by Antoine Predock. In addition to the science center, the Heritage and Science Park features the Phoenix Museum of History and Historic Heritage Square, a historic location featuring a variety of old buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants.
Address: 600 East Washington Street, Phoenix 85004, USA
Hours: Open daily 10am - 5pm, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
Admission: Adults: US$12, Children (3-17yrs): US$10
From $ 229
Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
A mix of styles come together at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, from Asian and Latin American, to contemporary and ethnic artworks.
The gallery exhibits a wide range of sculptures, textiles, prints, paintings and weaving, focusing in particular on Japanese and Canadian works.
An Asian garden surrounds the gallery, underscoring the gallery’s highly prized collection of Asian art inside.
Guided tours, events, classes and educational programs round out the gallery’s cultural calendar.The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a few streets east of Victoria Harbour.
Buses run here from downtown, or it’s around a 20-minute stroll from the waterfront.
Address: 1,040 Moss Street, Victoria BC V8V 4P1, Canada
Hours: Open daily, closed Easter Monday, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
From $ 31
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery contains graves of soldiers from every war the United States has fought since the American Revolution. It is a resting place for such notable American leaders as President John F. Kennedy, jurist Oliver Wendell Holmes, and civil rights activist Medgar Evers. With some 400,000 graves, famous and otherwise, the 624-acre (252-hectare) site has become a must-see historical site for any trip to Washington DC.
The Basics
Arlington National Cemetery is free to visit, and travelers should start at the Welcome Center, where maps, exhibits, and information services can be found. Notable sites within the cemetery include the President John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame; the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial; and the Memorial Amphitheater. Choose a hop-on hop-off tour that stops at the cemetery, a walking tour of the grounds, or a tour that combines a visit to the cemetery with stops at National Mall monuments, war memorials, Mount Vernon, or other DC landmarks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Keep in mind that the cemetery is a shrine honoring fallen members of the US Armed Forces and that a visit is a solemn affair. Exercise an appropriate level of respect.
- Be prepared to go through a security screening before entering the cemetery.
- No food or drink other than bottled water is allowed in the Welcome Center or on the cemetery grounds.
- The cemetery is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but you must bring your own.
- Download the ANC Explorer mobile phone app or use it at the kiosks on site to locate gravesites and monuments around the cemetery.
How to Get to Arlington National Cemetery
To reach Arlington National Cemetery via the Metro from Washington DC, get off at the Arlington National Cemetery Station on the Blue Line. By car, it’s off of Memorial Avenue, across the Potomac from downtown DC.
When to Get There
Arlington National Cemetery can be visited 365 days a year. The site is open to the public from 8am to 5pm in October through March and until 7pm in April through September. It’s less crowded in winter, but be prepared for cold temperatures.
The Changing of the Guard
The Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a must-see when visiting Arlington National Cemetery. From October 1 to March 31, it takes place every hour on the hour, and from April 1 to September 30, it occurs every half hour. The start of the ceremony is announced by a relief commander, and visitors are expected to stand and stay silent throughout the ceremony.
Address: 214 McNair Road, Fort Myer 22211, USA
Hours: Apr - Oct 8am - 7pm, Oct - Apr 8am - 5pm, every day
Admission: Free
From $ 14
Asian Art Museum
Journey through Asia—without embarking on an overseas trip—in this museum dedicated to art from the region. During your stay in San Francisco, view artworks spanning different periods in history and contemporary art from cultural regions, such as India, Japan, China, and Korea.
The Basics
The Asian Art Museum takes visitors on a comprehensive tour of the major cultural regions in Asia. From Iran to Indonesia, the Himalayas to Malaysia, galleries include sculptures and paintings, sacred objects, and historical photographs, arranged to provide a detailed picture of the vast region’s differing cultures. Masterpieces, such as the Buddha Triumphing over Mara, a stone sculpture from India dating to the 900s, are interwoven into the collections.
The San Francisco Explorer Pass and Go card include admission to the Asian Art Museum. Hop-on-hop-off bus tours also stop here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Asian Art Museum is known for its popular and immersive cultural programming, much of which must be booked in advance.
- All of the museum’s entrances are accessible to people using wheeled devices.
- A special effort is made to include children in the museum’s programming. There are even before-hours stroller tours for moms, dads, and caregivers for the 0–2 set.
- Tickets to evening programs are sold separately.
- The Exploratorium’s on-site restaurant, Sunday at the Museum, is very popular and lines can be long. Visit after 1pm to avoid the longest lines.
How to Get There
The Asian Art Museum is located at San Francisco’s Civic Center and is easily accessed by public transportation. On BART, exit at Civic Center/Larkin Street. Muni J, K, L, M, N, and T streetcar lines all stop within a block of the museum near Larkin and Market streets. San Francisco Muni bus lines, 5, 6, 7, 21, 47, and 48 also make stops at Civic Center.
When to Get There
The Asian Art Museum is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10am–5pm, extending until 9pm Thursdays, February through September. The museum is closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. During events and festival days, such as Lunar New Year, the museum and on-site restaurant are extremely busy. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Sunday at the Museum
The museum recently invited local chef Deuki Hong and restaurateurs Andrew Chau and Bin Chen of Boba Guys milk tea to take over its on-site restaurant, Sunday at the Museum. A sample of the menu of Asian flavors include Hong’s classic Korean fried chicken sandwich, soy-chili-garlic chicken wings, and miso avocado toast on Japanese milk bread, and milk tea, of course.
Address: 200 Larkin Street, San Francisco, California, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Arlington House Museum
A Southern, Greek Revival mansion once owned by General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army, the Arlington House is much more than just a beautiful house. Steeped in history and surrounded by hardwood forest, the 1,100 acre plantation was the general’s residence before the war started. It’s now a standing piece of history and a tribute to his military service before, during, and after the war.
Long before it was General Lee’s home, the house claimed its place in US history as the home of George Washington Parke Custis — Martha Washington’s grandson. G.W.P. Custis built one of the nation’s first museums of historic American artifacts, largely from mementos of his childhood at Mount Vernon.
The 19th century mansion was never intended to be the site of one of the country’s most significant military cemeteries. Bodies were buried here during the Civil War, in part to ensure General Lee was unable to return home after the war ended. What began then has since grown into the Arlington National Cemetery. The estate overlooks the cemetery and the Potomac River, allowing for beautiful views of Washington DC.
Practical Info
Located in the Arlington Cemetery grounds, get to Arlington House by car or metro. It’s a ten minute walk from the Arlington Cemetery Visitor Center and parking area. By metro, take the Blue Line to the Arlington Cemetery subway station. It’s free to enter and open year-round from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, with extended hours during summer months.
Address: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia 22211, USA
Hours: Daily from 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
From $ 14
Arch Street Meeting House
Philadelphia is home to the largest Quaker Friends Meeting House in the world—the Arch Street Meeting House. It's also the city's oldest.
William Penn, founder of Philadelphia and a Quaker, set aside land at the corner of Arch Street and 4th Street in the city center in 1701 for the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The land was originally used for Quaker burials, and in 1803 the first parts of the current Meeting House were built. The Arch Street Friends Meeting House has been in continuous use since it was first built.
The Arch Street Meeting House is the site of Monthly Meetings and Yearly Meetings, and it's also open to visitors as a National Historic Landmark. One section of the building features dioramas of William Penn's life, as well as the 18th century diary of a local Quaker.
Practical Info
Tours of the meeting house are offered by prior arrangement Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-4pm, and a $2 donation per person is appreciated.
Address: Arch Street and 4th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm
Admission: $2 donation
From $ 19
Arches National Park
The eroded red rock wonderland of Arches National Park houses more than 2,000 natural stone arches, the densest concentration in the world. Geological marvels abound—here you’ll find hundreds of soaring pinnacles, the iconic Delicate Arch, and Landscape Arch, the largest natural arch in the world at 290 feet (88 meters) across.
The Basics
Arches National Park is one of Utah’s top attractions, with more than 1 million visitors each year. Whether travelers want to stroll through the desert landscape on a day trip or venture into the backcountry on a multi-day excursion, methods for exploring the park are as varied as the sandstone arches within. Travelers can learn to mountain bike amid the spectacular rock formations, take a 4-wheel tour of the park’s top points of interest, or experience the park as part of a multi-day guided journey through Utah’s most popular national parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Arches National Park is a must-see attraction for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water. Shade is rare in the park’s desert environment.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- The Arches Visitor Center offers free Wi-Fi.
- Several trails, picnic grounds, and viewpoints are wheelchair accessible, as is the Arches Visitor Center.
How to Get There
Arches National Park is located in southeast Utah, five miles (eight kilometers) north of Moab on US 191. Most visitors arrive by car or as part of a guided tour from Moab or Salt Lake City. The nearest major airport is Grand Junction Regional Airport, roughly 90 minutes by road from the park.
When to Get There
Arches is busiest from March through October; during this time, plan to arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic. Summer temperatures regularly break 100°F (38°C), while spring and fall weather can be more comfortable. There are no ranger-led programs offered in winter, but the lack of crowds makes this a peaceful time to visit.
Hiking in Arches National Park
As one of Utah’s most accessible national parks, Arches offers a wide variety of hiking trails, many of which are rated as easy or moderate. Popular easy hikes take visitors to Landscape Arch or Balanced Rock, while the most popular park trail—a strenuous 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) trek—leads to the iconic Delicate Arch.
Address: Utah, USA
Hours: Daily
From $ 80
Artists and Fleas
Since 2003, Artists and Fleas has been bringing together creators and the creative to showcase their handmade wares for locals and visitors in search of something that’s truly unique. More than 100 vendors gather in this Brooklyn warehouse each weekend to create one of the most diverse shopping experiences around. Wander the diverse and colorful stalls, where local designers sell anything from vintage clothing to silkscreen shirts and handmade jewelry.
Stop by one of the stands selling homemade treats just outside the doors and spend a morning, afternoon—or even an entire day—exploring some of the best of local artists while you listen to tunes spun by a live DJ for this one-of-a-kind truly Brooklyn shopping experience.
Practical Info
Artists and Fleas is open Saturday and Sunday only from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. It is easily accessible using public transportation by taking the L train to the Bedford Avenue stop.
Address: 70 North 7th Street, Brooklyn, New York 11217, USA
Hours: Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.
From $ 55