Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Bauhaus Brew Labs
With deliciously locally-crafted brews, Bauhaus Brew Labs seeks to produce the highest in quality craft lagers. With three distinctly flavored, German-inspired lagers and one IPA, the brewhouse additionally makes five seasonal varieties. The Brew Labs take an interesting creative approach to making beer as inspired by the post WWI Bauhaus School of art and design in Germany. They continue the tradition of creativity and experimentation that was founded there, with an emphasis on flavor and love of beer. The company purports that life, work, and play should intersect, with this philosophy embedded into their process of making their beer.
The Brew Labs outdoor patio is dog-friendly and comfortable to relax on. The brewery invites beer enthusiasts to taste their imaginative interpretations of classic brews, and events often accompany tastings. The tasting room is inspired by the communal beer halls of Germany and is consistently regarded as one of the best in Minnesota.
The Brew Labs outdoor patio is dog-friendly and comfortable to relax on. The brewery invites beer enthusiasts to taste their imaginative interpretations of classic brews, and events often accompany tastings. The tasting room is inspired by the communal beer halls of Germany and is consistently regarded as one of the best in Minnesota.
Practical Info
The brewery is located in the Northeast Arts District of Minneapolis. Tours are held on the first Saturday of the month from 11 am to noon for $5 per person aged 21 and over. The tours are limited to 30 people in size. Open from Wednesday to Saturday, the site opens at noon, and closing times vary.
Address: 1315 Tyler Street, Minneapolis, MN 55413, USA
Hours: Wednesday-Thursday from 4pm-11pm, Friday from 3pm-11pm, and Saturday from 12pm-11pm
From $ 65
Beacon Hill
Home to the Massachusetts State House, Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood is reminiscent of 19th-century London, replete with cobbled streets and brownstone buildings bedecked with flower-filled window boxes. At night, gas lanterns flicker to life and create a romantic atmosphere for fine dining and bar-hopping.
The Basics
Bordered by the Charles River Esplanade and the city’s vast public gardens, Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most picturesque haunts. Wander the narrow streets and browse boutique shops on Charles Street or in stately Louisburg Square, sip coffee in a European-style café, or enjoy dinner at one of the neighborhood’s upscale restaurants.
You can also delve into the area’s history on a walking tour of the Freedom Trail, or visit as part of a guided bike excursion. Artistically inclined visitors can capture Beacon Hill’s historic charm on a photo tour with a professional photographer, while history buffs can learn about the area’s Jewish roots on a cultural walking tour and foodies can taste pizza and local brews on a food and bar crawl.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a camera to capture Acorn Street, one of the most-photographed streets in the United States.
- Walking is the best way to get around in Beacon Hill. The cobbled streets and brick sidewalks can be steep and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Most intersections are equipped with handicap-accessible ramps, but some areas may be difficult to navigate for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Beacon Hill is located in the heart of downtown Boston, a short jaunt across the Charles River from Cambridge. Public parking is available, but you can also get here via the subway, also known as the T. The nearest airport is Boston Logan, roughly 15 minutes by road from Beacon Hill.
When to Get There
In summer, crowds flock to the Boston Common and Charles River to stroll and sunbathe. While the weather can be hot during the day, there are plenty of spots to stop for cool refreshments. Spring and fall are also good times to visit due to milder weather. Winter visitors can enjoy holiday decorations, ice skating in the Common, and seasonal events.
Beacon Hill History
Beacon Hill earned its name when a Revolutionary War beacon was erected here to warn neighboring communities of British invaders. In 1795, Charles Bulfinch and the Mount Vernon Proprietors began to develop Beacon Hill into an elegant residential community full of picturesque streets, adjoining brick row houses, and Greek Revival–style homes. The neighborhood was also an important abolitionist center during the Civil War, and the African Meeting House on Beacon Hill’s North Slope was a hub on the Underground Railroad. Today, you can learn about the area’s historic past at the Boston Athenaeum, Nichols House Museum, and Museum of African American History.
Address: Boston, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 35
Barclays Center
At a time when Brooklyn is quickly becoming known as the hottest borough, the Barclays Center is just as rapidly taking its place as Brooklyn’s hottest venue. Stationed at the intersection of Atlantic and Flatbush Avenues near Downtown Brooklyn and across the street from Atlantic Terminal, the Barclays Center is home to the NBA’s Nets and also plays host to plenty of city, national and international entertainment tours.
This popular venue, which now rivals the popularity of famed Madison Square Garden, opened its doors in 2012 and has won recognition in equal parts because of big name shows and big name rapper Jay-Z. With typical stadium seating, plus 101 luxury suites, four bars, four clubs and plenty of nearby dining options, the Bar Clay’s center has become a destination for locals and travelers looking to sit back, relax and enjoy some truly epic sports, performances and live entertainment.
Practical Info
The Barclays Center is easily accessible using public transportation, with some 11 subways and the Long Island Railroad making stops within walking distance. Hours are dependent upon scheduled events, so check the website for up-to-date details.
Address: 620 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11217, USA
Hours: Vary
From $ 400
Banyan Drive
Set back a block from Hilo’s coastline are scores of towering and sprawling banyan trees with their thick and unique trunks. Similar trees can be found throughout the state, but what makes these fifty specimens unique is their planters. Between 1933 and 1972, many famous celebrities, political figures, authors and Hawaiians personally planted or dedicated these banyan seedlings as a way to commemorate their visit or honor friends. In front of the Hilo Hawaiian hotel, a particularly large road-shading tree has a small sign indicating it was planted by George Herman “Babe” Ruth, and across Banyan Drive are trees planted by King George V, Queen Elizabeth and Richard Nixon. Other famous names visible on placards along the leafy corridor are Franklin Roosevelt, movie star Cecil B. DeMille and his wife Constance, Amelia Earhart, volcanologist Dr. Thomas Jaggar (whose name is given to the Jaggar Museum at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park) and musician Louis Armstrong. Perhaps even more remarkable is the fact that the many of the trees here have persevered through three city-devastating tsunamis. Giant waves swept through Hilo in 1946, 1960 and 1975, and though these trees were not lost, a combined 222 people were.
Practical Info
Banyan Drive is located directly off downtown Hilo’s main drag, Kamehameha Avenue. It’s the second left turn over the bridge after Bayfront Park as you’re heading toward the airport, and across from the popular Ken’s House of Pancakes. You can also access it via Lihiwai Street. The Hilo Seaside Hotel, the Hilo Naniloa and the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel are all set along Banyan Drive, which forms a loop that also holds access to Coconut Island and the Liliuokalani Gardens. The loop’s interior encloses the Naniloa Volcanoes Golf Club and it’s said that trees on the course grounds may have also had famous planters, though they do not bear plaques.
Address: Banyan Drive, Hilo, Hawaii, USA, USA
From $ 99
Barton Springs
A visit to Barton Springs Pool in Austin’s sprawling Zilker Park is a treasured experience for both Austin locals and visitors. The pool, which is more than 3 acres (1.2 hectares) in size is the result of a naturally occurring underground-fed spring. Generations have enjoyed the fresh, cool water, which stays a constant temperature of about 68°F (20°C).
The Basics
Located in Zilker Metropolitan Park near downtown Austin, the natural limestone pool ranges from dip-your-toes-in to more than 18 feet (5.5 meters) deep. You might encounter fish and turtles, and it’s home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander. There’s a diving board, and a grassy area for sunbathing, and lifeguards on duty. Combine your trip to Barton Springs with an Austin bike tour that ends with a dip in the pool.
Things to Know Before You Go
- During most guarded swim times, there are is a fee with discounts for seniors, youth, residents, and veterans.
- Food, smoking, and alcohol are prohibited.
- Lifeguards are on duty for much of the day.
How to Get There
Barton Springs is within Zilker Park, which you can access from Barton Springs Road. It’s immediately southwest of downtown Austin across the Colorado River. From downtown, take Congress Avenue south across the Congress Avenue Bridge, which turns into 1st Street. Turn right on Barton Springs Road, and look for Zilker Park signs and the pool. Parking is available near the pool (there’s a parking fee on weekends).
When to Get There
From March through September, the pool is open 5am to 10pm daily, with a lifeguard on duty during posted hours each day (you can swim for free at your own risk outside of these hours). The pool is closed Thursday from 9am to 7pm for cleaning and habitat maintenance. Given the cool temperature of the water, summer is the best time for a dip.
Did You Know?
Barton Springs has a fascinating history. Robert Redford is said to have learned to swim at the pool at age 5. Topless sunbathers were common in the 1970s. Barton Springs is home to the Barton Springs salamander, an endangered, federally protected species. And it’s never been more popular: a record-setting 800,000 visitors have enjoyed Barton Springs Pool in recent years.
Address: 2201 Barton Springs Road, Austin, Texas 78746, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Bank of America Stadium
Opened in 1996, Bank of America Stadium is home to the Carolina Panthers football team. The stadium is located in uptown Charlotte and was specially designed for football. The open-air, natural grass stadium has 73,778 seats. During a 2014 renovation, high-definition video boards were added above each end zone, along with a high-efficiency, high-octave sound system.
In addition to the actual playing field, Bank of America Stadium is also home to the Carolina Panthers’ headquarters, training facilities, practice fields and administrative offices.
Practical Info
The stadium and practice fields are spread over 33 acres of land in uptown Charlotte. It is bordered by Interstate 277, Mint, Graham and Morehead streets. Tours of the Bank of American Stadium are offered most Wednesdays and Fridays. Groups of 10 or fewer do not require a reservation. Space is limited, so it’s a good idea to arrive earlier as opposed to later.
Address: 800 S Mint St, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 38
Bay of Fundy
Situated on Canada’s east coast, the Bay of Fundy is known for its extreme tides. Twice a day the tide advances and retreats by as much as 52 feet (16 meters), leaving land previously covered by sea exposed and vice versa. The scenic lighthouse-dotted coastline, whale-inhabited waters, and quaint fishing villages add to the bay’s appeal.
The Basics
You can witness the Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides along Nova Scotia’s Fundy Shore at places such as the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Joggins Cliffs, where the erosion of coastal cliffs has revealed 300-million-year-old fossils. Saint John and Moncton, both in New Brunswick, also make good home bases, with nearby tide-viewing sights such as Reversing Falls and the Hopewell Rocks.
Many whale-watching tours take place on the bay, as do rafting excursions on tidal bore rapids—where inflowing rivers meet the outflowing tides, creating waves. Food tours of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick allow visitors to taste fresh Bay of Fundy seafood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bay of Fundy is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Check tide times before you go; note that times vary for different locations along the bay.
- The intertidal zone (the area that is above water at low tide and under water at high tide) is often muddy, so wear appropriate footwear.
How to Get There
The Bay of Fundy is situated between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. The nearest international airports are in Saint John, Moncton, Fredericton, and Halifax. Ferries run across the bay, connecting Saint John, New Brunswick with Digby, Nova Scotia.
When to Get There
The best time to visit he Bay of Fundy is from June through October, when boat tours run most frequently. To fully appreciate the extreme nature of the tides, try and visit the same location at peak high tide and again about six hours later, at peak low tide.
Where to See the Ocean Floor
At low tide, the exposed ocean floor is accessible at several locations along the coast, including Joggins, Parrsboro, and Grand-Pré in Nova Scotia and St. Andrews, Alma, Hopewell Rocks, and Dorchester Cape in New Brunswick. If you want to walk on the uncovered ocean floor, plan to arrive about an hour before low tide. That way, you’ll have time to explore before the tide begins to creep back in.
Address: New Brunswick, Canada
From $ 100
Bata Shoe Museum
The quirky Bata Shoe Museum in downtown Toronto showcases the changing style and function of footwear across four galleries. What started as a personal collection for Sonja Bata in the 1940s is now a museum with more than 20,000 shoes dating from ancient Egypt to modern day, including a selection of celebrity soles. It’s an unusual chance to view world history through the lens of footwear.
The Basics
The Bata Shoe Museum motto is “for every shoe there is a story,” and those stories are told through a semi-permanent exhibition and three changing galleries. Wander the unusual collection for a look at shoes made from human hair, bear fur shoes created for Japanese samurai, and 16-century Italian platform shoes. Prebook tickets for skip-the-line admission and a free audio guide. Enjoy hassle-free transportation with Toronto’s hop-on hop-off bus tour, which stops at the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Save money and time by purchasing your tickets in advance.
- This museum is a must-see for those interested in footwear, history, or quirky collections.
- A guided audio tour is available via smartphone—bring a pair of headphones to enjoy the full experience.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Bata Shoe Museum is located at the southwest corner of Bloor Street West and Saint George. From the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), take the Gardiner Expressway to Spadina Avenue. Head north to Bloor Street, turn right and go east to St. George Street. You can also take the subway to St. George Station on the Bloor-Danforth or the Yonge-University lines.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday. Plan to spend one to two hours exploring the galleries. Check the calendar of events for a list of current special exhibitions.
Famous Footwear
The Bata Shoe Museum boasts a handful of celebrity shoes in its collection, including Elton John’s silver platform boots, Elvis Presley’s blue patent loafers, John Lennon’s Beatle boots, Robert Redford’s cowboy boots, and Queen Victoria’s ballroom slippers. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of indigenous and archaeological footwear, providing insight into early civilizations.
Address: 327 Bloor St West, Toronto, ON, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 11
Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos)
For an authentic and lively Puerto Vallarta beach experience, the Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos) can’t be beat. Located just south of Olas Altas Beach in the Romantic Zone, this gay-friendly stretch of sand fronts a pier and is lined with bars and restaurants. Locals and families also love this beach and its diverse crowd.
The Basics
Playa de los Muertos is the Romantic Zone’s top attraction and crowded compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta’s beaches. The water can be good for swimming, and out of the water the ambiance and people watching will keep you entertained. Come evening, the beachfront restaurants serve gourmet cuisine against the backdrop of romantic Vallarta sunsets.
You can visit the Beach of the Dead independently or as part of a beach-hopping tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Beach of the Dead is ideal for all beachgoers. Families may prefer to be near the pier, where swimming can be better for children.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
Playa de los Muertos is located in the south of Puerto Vallarta, across the bridge over the Cuale River from the north side. Take the bus that says Centro (downtown) or a taxi; if you’re driving, follow Highway 200.
When to Get There
As with all of Puerto Vallarta, the Beach of the Dead is lovely pretty much year-round. Winter sees large numbers of visitors; during this time, plan to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and take advantage of the beach’s limited street parking.
Romantic Zone Highlights
No visit to Playa de los Muertos is complete without a stroll along the winding cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone (Old Town). With artisan shops, farmers markets, and street-side taco stands, this area of Vallarta maintains a more traditional, laid-back feel than the rest of the city. Don’t miss a walk along the newly reconstructed pier.
Address: El Centro, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 310
Basilique-Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Quebec
The oldest Christian parish north of Mexico, the grandiose Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec started life as a much more modest church in 1647 but was damaged and rebuilt several times—most recently in the 1920s following a devastating fire. The basilica is a must-see for anyone with an interest in architecture, art, and history.
The Basics
The cathedral is a common stop during walking tours and history-focused sightseeing tours of UNESCO-listed Old Quebec, the historic heart of French Canada. During summer, it’s possible to take guided tours of the basilica crypt—where important figures, including François de Laval, the first bishop of New France—are interred.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Services in the church are conducted in French.
- The cathedral is wheelchair accessible.
- Panels providing information are placed throughout the church.
How to Get There
The Basilique-Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec is located on Rue de Buade in Old Quebec. It’s less than five minutes from the Quebec Funicular. From the Gare du Palais train station, it’s around 10 minutes away on foot. Alternatively, ride the 11 bus from Gare Palais to the de Buade stop.
When to Get There
Most visitors come to Quebec City during summer, when the port is open to cruise ships. During these times, the cathedral can become pretty crowded. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The cathedral is at its quietest and most peaceful on weekdays in winter.
Treasures of the Cathedral
The cathedral’s interior is lavish. The ceiling is painted like a sky complete with clouds and gold-leaf decoration, while vividly colored stained glass windows let in a soft light. While most of its important artworks and artifacts were destroyed by the devastating 1922 fire, a chancel lamp that gifted by Louis XIV, somehow survived and can still be seen on display here.
Address: 20 rue de Buade, Latin Quarter, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 24
Banzai Pipeline
The Banzai Pipeline, one of the most famous surf breaks along Oahu’s Seven Mile Miracle, is known by wave riders the world over. This is no beginners’ break: Pipeline has earned its reputation as one of the most intense on the planet. The danger here is the same thing forms its ridable tubes—an abrupt and shallow coral shelf that causes the water mounds to topple quickly and very close to the shoreline. Experts try their luck when Pipeline pounds between October and April with waves heights averaging 15 feet.
As one might imagine, with surf crashing close to shore, Pipeline is a sight to behold even for landlubbers. Gawkers come out in droves to see the spectacular sunsets over the tropical waves, but especially to see the pros shred it. The Billabong Pipe Masters’ challenge—the final competition in the World Surf League’s competitive season and culminating event of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing—selects its winner here each December.
In the summer months, it can be hard to recognize The Pipe. The ocean pulls a 180, the wind and the waves die down and the waters off Banzai Beach become a popular snorkeling spot.
Practical Info
In typical North Shore low-key style, no signs blare “Pipeline this way.” If you weren’t looking for this world famous spot, you might miss it! The break is located off Ehukai Beach Park in Pupukea, and most easily found by spotting Sunset Beach Elementary across the street. If you have a GPS, set it for the Beach Park at 59-337 Ke Nui Road. A small parking area fits maybe 20 cars, and when the waves are good it’s almost always full. Your best bet will likely be to park on the left side of Kamehameha Highway and walk back. Note even in the summer waves and currents can be finicky: If you plan to snorkel, check with lifeguard (daily 9 a.m. til 5:30 p.m.) to make sure it’s safe to proceed.
Address: Ehukai Beach Park, Haleiwa, Oahu, Hawaii, USA 96712, USA
From $ 68
Barbary Coast Trail
The Barbary Coast Trail connects twenty of San Francisco’s most historic locations, with bronze trail markers on the sidewalks leading the way. Many of the sites correspond to two of the most important events of the city’s history: the Gold Rush and the earthquake of 1906. The Barbary Coast refers to the red-light district of saloons, dance halls, jazz clubs, and brothels that developed in the city at the end of the 19th century.
Developed by the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society, the trail takes you on a walk through the different eras of the city, including the time of “beat” poetry in North Beach and Depression-era murals near Coit Tower. The first Asian temple in North America is also a stop on the trail. The four-mile path begins at the Old Mint and passes through historic museums, sailing ships, pubs, homes, and cafes that tell the story of San Francisco.
Practical Info
The Barbary Coast Trail begins at the Old Mint and ends at Aquatic Park. Each end of the walking trail is connected by the Powell-Hyde cable car line.
Address: 900 Market Street, San Francisco, California 94102, USA
From $ 30
Bass Museum of Art
The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach, founded in 1963, specializes in global art, primarily from the Renaissance period on. The museum is located in the 1930s Miami Beach Public Library and Art Center and includes traveling exhibitions from national and international collections to contribute to the cultural activities available in the area. A large expansion took place between 1998 and 2002, more than doubling its size from 15,000 to 35,000 square feet, and more expansions are planned.
There is a year-round calendar of contemporary exhibitions, artists’ projects, educational programs, lectures, workshops and concerts at the museum. Don’t miss the Art History Lab, a spot that mixes different works of art from various eras in art history to create visual and thematic relationships between them. Pieces are displayed in a “salon style” format as well, so visitors can perhaps also consider the connections between art created in different countries at different points in time.
Practical Info
The Bass Museum of Art is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 5pm. On Friday night, the museum stays open until 9pm. The site is located at 2100 Collins Avenue, between 21st and 22nd streets. Photos are permitted in most exhibitions, but ask the front desk personnel to verify which are approved.
Address: 2100 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
Hours: Wed-Sun from noon until 5pm. Friday nights open until 9pm.
Admission: Adults $8
From $ 40
Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace, a vibrant waterfront mall in downtown Miami—and the city’s most-visited attraction—sits above Biscayne Bay and features many shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The open-air market has more than 100 shops ranging from apparel to bath products to electronics, and often live performers are on hand to keep shoppers entertained.
The Basics
Feel warm tropical breezes as you step out of the shops and onto the promenade at this two-story complex of retailers. Bayside Marketplace features both local and national brands, as well as items—including souvenirs—for all budgets. In addition, boat tours, bike tours, water taxis, and fishing charters leave from here: It’s a great place to board a bay cruise or boat ride on the bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In the evenings and on weekends, the market’s atmosphere often gets energetic with dancing and live music.
- Vehicle parking, handicapped parking, and stroller parking are all available.
- Aside from many restaurants, there is a food court serving more fast, casual dining options.
How to Get There
Bayside Marketplace is located right on the water on Biscayne Boulevard. There is plenty of paid parking available, and many routes arrive on Miami Beach and South Florida public transportation and Metrorail. It is about a 15-minute walk (less than one mile/1.6 kilometers) from the heart of downtown Miami.
When to Get There
The marketplace is open daily from 10am. Closing hours, and individual restaurant and shop hours, vary—all are available on the Bayside Marketplace website.
See Miami from the Water
After exploring Miami by land, see a different side of the city by heading out onto the water. Sightseeing tours of Biscayne Bay allow for uninterrupted views of the Miami skyline, its many landmarks, and even some celebrity homes. Check out the Port of Miami, Fisher Island, Star Island, and the Venetian Islands while enjoying a relaxing cruise.
Address: 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132, USA
From $ 10
Barnes Foundation
Philadelphia is a city that’s home to both art and history. Few places showcase the connection between the two like the Barnes Foundation. This world-class museum houses a large collection of Modern paintings and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from artists like Renoir, Cezanne and Picasso.
Travelers can wander the galleries filled with iconic works and tour the collection of smaller rooms that are reflective of the original Barnes estate. The museum also offers travelers easy access to the nearby park and the city’s waterfront, which is the perfect place for an evening skyline stroll.
Practical Info
The Barnes Foundation is located at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. It is closed Tuesdays. Admission is $22 for adults on weekdays and $25 on weekends. The first Sunday of every month is free to visitors. The foundation has extended hours, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Travelers can take the SEPTA or the 7, 32, 33, 38 or 48 bus routes.
Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA 19130, USA
Hours: Open 10am-5pm Wed-Mon
Admission: Weekdays: $22; Weekends: $25
From $ 32
BC Place Stadium
For more than three decades, BC Place Stadium has been the premier venue for British Columbia’s athletics. Originally built for the 1986 World’s Fair, it played a major role in the Vancouver’s hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics. In preparation for the event it was updated with a retractable roof that became the largest of its kind in the world. The large fabric rooftop is supported by cables, transforming the stadium for whichever weather conditions or event is present. Guests can remain covered during inclement weather, or be open to the sky (which is particularly beautiful on clear night.)
BC Place is home to the city’s two major sports teams, as well as the BC Sports Hall of Fame. The stadium is also host to the city’s largest community events. With over 1,000 digital screens and nearly 55,000 stadium seats, it’s one of the top sports arenas in Canada.
Practical Info
BC Place is located near False Creek in southeastern Vancouver, on Pacific Boulevard. The BC Sports Hall of Fame is located at Gate A and is open from 10 am to 5 pm. To get there via public transportation, buses 15 and 17 and False Creek Ferries drop off closest to the stadium and the Skytrain stop is Stadium/Chinatown. Parking is available nearby at varying costs.
Address: 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Canada
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Free with event; $15 for Hall of Fame
From $ 37
Barboursville Vineyards
The vineyards at Barboursville surround an 18th century estate that once belonged to James Barbour, the governor of Virginia (for which the area is named.) They are inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s nearby Monticello estate, who in fact designed the stately mansion.
The grounds were once farmland deemed unworthy of making wine, until an Italian man purchased the property and brought with him his family’s winemaking legacy. Wines are still created in a European style. Today the star of the vineyards is undoubtedly its Cabernet Franc, served both in its tasting room and with culinary pairings in its Library 1821 building.
Other varietals depend upon the year, though the vineyard has made Nebbiolo, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and others throughout the years. Tours grant insight into the history of the estate and the winemaking process, as well as the story of the vineyards’ signature wine.
Practical Info
Barboursville is a 30 minute drive from Charlottesville, 1.25 hours from Richmond, or 2 hours from Washington D.C. Tours take place on weekends only from 12 to 4pm. Tastings take place in the Tuscan Tasting Room every day. The entire estate is open to the public, and bringing a picnic is highly recommended.
Address: 17655 Winery Rd, Barboursville, Virginia, USA
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
Admission: Free to visit; Tastings are $7
From $ 250
Battery Park
Located on the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park is a 25-acre public park sitting right on the New York Harbor. The attraction is named after the artillery batteries that were once positioned there for protection. When visiting, it’s enjoyable to explore the many gardens, as well as admire the views of the Statue of Liberty and relax on a bench and listen to the water. While Battery Park gives visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors, it also provides a glimpse into the past. For example, in 1855 the park’s Castle Garden became the world’s first immigrant depot. Additionally, the park also served as the gateway for European newcomers long before Ellis Island existed. Littered around the grounds you’ll also find memorials like the East Coast Memorial that honors the U.S. 4,601 missing servicemen who died during combat in the Atlantic Ocean during WWII and the New York Korean War Veterans Memorial, commemorating military personal who served during the Korean Conflict from 1950 to1953. Today, Battery Park provides ferry transportation to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. During the summer, visitors can enjoy free music concerts at the park’s Castle Clinton, as well as the annual River to River Festival in June and July with more than 500 dance, performance and music events.
Address: USA
From $ 18
Battlefield Vegas
Battlefield Vegas is a five-acre military-style compound just one block from the Las Vegas strip that gives visitors the chance to both interact with military history and experience the largest collection of weapons available for personal use in the United States. Everything from weapon selection and training (82 percent of employees are veterans with combat experience) is designed for an immersive experience.
On the grounds are both a 25-yard indoor firing range and a 200-acre desert training facility. Over 350 guns are on site, some of which date from World War I or were used recently by NATO forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. There is also a fleet of 25 military vehicles ranging from jeeps to helicopters from both historical and present wartime. All weapon use is instructor-led, and experiences are arranged by weapon type and country or historical place of origin.
Practical Info
Located just off the Vegas Strip, Battlefield Vegas is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The minimum age for shooters is 10 years old.
Address: 2771 S Industrial Rd., Las Vegas, Nevada 89109, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
From $ 125
Battle Road Trail
Running for 5 miles along the length of the Minute Man National Historic Park, the fabled Battle Road Trail follows the path of the notorious Battle of Lexington and Concord, the clash between British troops and the Colonial Minute Men that marked the start of the American Revolutionary War.
Walking or cycling the Battle Road Trail takes visitors on a journey through the fateful events of April 19, 1775, passing the farmlands, woods and dirt tracks that served as battle fields and ambush points throughout the battles, as well as key historic sites. The signposted route includes markers and information boards that tell the history of each location, and highlights include the Hartwell Tavern, the 18th-century house of Captain William Smith, John Meriam’s colonial home, and the site of Paul Revere’s capture, as well as strategic sites like Bloody Angle, Parker’s Revenge and Fiske Hill.
Practical Info
The Battle Road Trail runs through the Minute Man National Historic Park between Concord and Lexington.
Address: Concord, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 56