Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Anaheim & Buena Park
ShowingFilter 581-600 of 5104 listings.
Bur Dubai Village
Bur Dubai Village, located near the mouth of Dubai Creek, takes visitors back in time through a series of heritage villages complete with recreated architecture and local artisans practicing their crafts using traditional techniques. For shoppers, the village is a great place to find unique, handmade items to take home as souvenirs or gifts.
Long before the skyscrapers and palm-shaped islands, Dubai’s economy relied heavily on pearling. Teams of men would spend months at a time at sea diving for the rose-colored pearls produced in the Persian Gulf. One of the most unique experiences at the Bur Dubai Village is the opportunity to learn more about the city’s pearl diving culture and watch a demonstration of how it’s done.
Bur Dubai Village is open every day of the week, but Friday hours are limited and many of the shop will be closed. After you’ve toured the heritage village, set aside some time for a meal or drink by the waterside.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 39
Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi)
The Bull Temple (Dodda Ganeshana Gudi) was built in the 16th century in typical South Indian Dravidian style, and is one of Bangalore’s oldest temples. The locals call it “Dodda Basavana Gudi” (Big Bull Temple), named after the gigantic 15-foot high and 20-foot long statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull.
Visitors to the temple first pay their respects to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god at the base of the hill before climbing the many steps to worship the huge monolithic statue of Nandi at the top. Carved from a single enormous slab of granite, this is one of the largest statues of Nandi in the world.
One of the most important annual festivals celebrated at the Bull Temple is the “Peanut Festival” which happens every November. Peanut farmers from villages on the outskirts of the city come to the temple to offer their first crop of peanuts to Nandi the bull before selling the rest. The streets adjoining the temple are closed to traffic and take on a festive atmosphere: huge piles of peanuts are bought and sold and a variety of vendors sell trinkets, balloons and snacks to the crowds of people who come to take part.
Visitors to the temple first pay their respects to Ganesh, the elephant-headed god at the base of the hill before climbing the many steps to worship the huge monolithic statue of Nandi at the top. Carved from a single enormous slab of granite, this is one of the largest statues of Nandi in the world.
One of the most important annual festivals celebrated at the Bull Temple is the “Peanut Festival” which happens every November. Peanut farmers from villages on the outskirts of the city come to the temple to offer their first crop of peanuts to Nandi the bull before selling the rest. The streets adjoining the temple are closed to traffic and take on a festive atmosphere: huge piles of peanuts are bought and sold and a variety of vendors sell trinkets, balloons and snacks to the crowds of people who come to take part.
Practical Info
The temple is located on Bull Temple Road in
Basavanagudi, South Bangalore, next to Bugle Rock Park. It is open daily
from 6am–1pm and 4pm-9pm. Bugle Rock Park next door to the temple is
also worth a visit for its beautiful majestic trees.
Address: Bull Temple Road, Bassavanagudi, Bangalore, India, India
Hours: 6am–1pm; 4pm–9pm daily
From $ 55
Bunratty Castle and Folk Village
Set on the banks of the River Ratty, this imposing 15th-century castle has been immaculately restored and is filled with period furnishings. The estate encompasses a re-created 19th-century village where visitors can explore typical rural dwellings and businesses, as well as observing demonstrations of traditional jobs and crafts.
The Basics
Visitors can choose between several experiences at the castle. Opt for a full-day admission ticket, which allows you to explore the castle (either as part of a guided tour or independently), the folk park, and the Bunratty Walled Garden. During the busy summer season, costumed characters in the folk park reveal tales of everyday life in 19th-century rural Ireland. Some day tours from Dublin and Limerick make a stop at Bunratty Castle en route to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
For an immersive experience, sit down for a medieval-style evening meal in the castle’s banquet room. Dinner includes a four-course feast and honey mead, accompanied by traditional music. Alternatively, enjoy Irish music, dancing, and storytelling—as well as a four-course meal—during a traditional Irish evening in the barn at Bunratty Folk Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bunratty Castle is a must for families, with lots of fun, interactive activities on offer.
- Food and drinks are available at the pub in the folk park and at the tea room in the castle.
- Bunratty Folk Park is wheelchair accessible. Only the basement level of the castle is wheelchair accessible; the other four floors are not.
How to Get There
Bunratty Castle is situated in the village of Bunratty in County Clare, Ireland, about a 15-minute drive from Shannon Airport and a 20-minute drive from Limerick City. Bus Éireann route 343 runs between Limerick bus station and Bunratty. The bus stop is about 5–10 minutes’ walk from the castle.
When to Get There
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is busiest during the summer months. Go in early morning to avoid the crowds. The last tour of the castle takes place at 4pm, to allow for setup for the evening banquet. If you want to attend the medieval banquet, note that it runs nightly between April and September. Between October and March, banquets are scheduled according to demand.
Bunratty Walled Garden
Also situated within the estate is Bunratty Walled Garden, a half-acre plot of manicured gardens. Once part of a much larger garden that would have grown vegetables for the Bunratty kitchen, this meticulously landscaped section of land now serves as a pleasure garden for strolling and has been restored to look much the same as it would have back in the 1800s.
Address: Bunratty, Ireland
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Budapest Jewish Quarter
With its maze of cobblestone lanes and wealth of historic landmarks, Budapest’s Jewish Quarter is one of the city’s liveliest districts. The area has a harrowing past, as the site of the Jewish Ghetto during the city’s Nazi occupation, and it’s dotted with monuments and memorials. But in recent years, it’s also undergone regeneration, emerging as one of Budapest’s coolest quarters, full of cozy cafés, gastropubs, kosher restaurants, and live music venues.
The Basics
The best way to explore the Jewish district is on a walking tour, which will cover landmarks such as Dohany Street Synagogue, the second-largest synagogue in the world; Kazinczy Street Synagogue; and the Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park. To learn about the city’s Jewish history, once one of Europe’s most thriving such communities, set aside some time to visit the Hungarian Jewish Museum and the moving Budapest Holocaust Memorial Center.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes to tackle the winding lanes and cobblestones.
- Walking tours of the Jewish Quarter typically take two to three hours.
- Getting around the quarter is possible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility, but not all of the district’s historic landmarks are fully wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Jewish Quarter is located in Pest on the east bank of the Danube River, a 10- to 15-minute walk from the riverfront. The closest subway station is Astoria.
When to Get There
The Jewish Quarter is a hub of activity both day and night, and while weekdays are the quietest time to admire the monuments, the most atmospheric time to visit is in the evening, when the pubs and bars begin to fill up. Alternatively, time your visit for the Jewish Cultural Festival in September or visit over the holidays, when the streets will be dazzling with festive illuminations and a Christmas market is held in Gozsdu Udvar.
Nightlife in the Jewish Quarter
In recent years, the ruins of the former Jewish ghetto have been transformed into one of Budapest’s liveliest nightlife quarters, breathing life back into the long-abandoned area. Head to Gozsdu Courtyard (Gozsdu Udvar) after dark, where you can tuck into exotic cuisine at one of the many international restaurants, enjoy a beer at one of the atmospheric ‘ruin bars’ (so-called as they are built in and around the ruins), or dance the night away at one of the many bars and nightclubs around Kiraly and Kazinczy streets.
Address: Budapest, Hungary
From $ 14
Budai Vigado
Built in the late 1800s, Budai Vigado was constructed with the intention of being both theater and library—a single building meant to meet the cultural needs and desires of local Hungarians. While the outside of this massive stately structure appears relatively unassuming, visitors agree that its impressive inside is worth exploring. Marble staircases, stone pillars and an incredible 301-seat theater give Budai Vigado a truly art nouveau flavor. The Hungarian State Folk Ensemble plays on this theater stage more than 100 times each year and travelers say catching a performance is a quintessential Budapest experience.
Practical Info
Budai Vigado is located at Corvin Ter 8, just west of the Danube River. It is accessible via the Battyany ter metro stop.
Address: Corvin tér 8, Budapest 1011, Hungary
Hours: Event and showtimes vary
From $ 25
Budikovac Island
Croatia is gaining a reputation or its stunning coastlines and idyllic beaches. And while the tiny island of Budikovac is still relatively untouched, it is without a doubt, the perfect escape from the energy of the mainland. Travelers who find their way to the picturesque pebble beach, protected bay, shallow waters and relaxing lagoon that exist here will be overcome with a sense of natural beauty and pure peace.
Visitors will quickly learn that only a single person lives on Budikovac Island. He is also responsible for the single restaurant that runs at this destination that attracts travelers looking to get off the beaten path and into incredible Croatia.
Practical Info
Budikovac Island is accessible only by private boat or tour, as no cars are allowed on the island no ferries run to or from Budikovac.
Address: Podstražje, Croatia
From $ 116
Budapest City Park (Varosliget)
Városliget is the largest of Budapest’s public parks, a vast expanse of 302 acres (1.2 km²) of public space with its main entrance at the monumental UNESCO-listed Heroes’ Square (Hosok Tér). It was originally an area of rural swamp but was mentioned as the royal hunting grounds as far back as the 13th century.
By 1751 the swamp had been drained and more trees planted in an English-style landscaping that became Hungary’s first public park. One hundred years later, the park became the focus of the Millennium celebrations, with museums, lakes, zoos and follies being built for 1896. Around the same time elegant Andrássy Avenue was constructed, which leads from the city center Erzsébet Square to Heroes’ Square.
Today the park is an idyllic spot for a summer picnic under the shade of gigantic sycamore trees or around the lake. Városliget is a one-stop destination for kids: Budapest Zoo, a permanent circus, the transport museum and Budapest Amusement Park provide a day’s worth of entertainment. The agricultural museum in Vajdahunyad Castle and a brace of art museums are also found within the park’s boundaries as well as the gorgeous neo-Baroque Széchenyi thermal baths. There’s a flea market here on Sunday morning and visitors don’t even have to leave the park to eat; there’s a choice of decent restaurants, including Budapest’s famous (and expensive) gourmet choice, Gundel.
By 1751 the swamp had been drained and more trees planted in an English-style landscaping that became Hungary’s first public park. One hundred years later, the park became the focus of the Millennium celebrations, with museums, lakes, zoos and follies being built for 1896. Around the same time elegant Andrássy Avenue was constructed, which leads from the city center Erzsébet Square to Heroes’ Square.
Today the park is an idyllic spot for a summer picnic under the shade of gigantic sycamore trees or around the lake. Városliget is a one-stop destination for kids: Budapest Zoo, a permanent circus, the transport museum and Budapest Amusement Park provide a day’s worth of entertainment. The agricultural museum in Vajdahunyad Castle and a brace of art museums are also found within the park’s boundaries as well as the gorgeous neo-Baroque Széchenyi thermal baths. There’s a flea market here on Sunday morning and visitors don’t even have to leave the park to eat; there’s a choice of decent restaurants, including Budapest’s famous (and expensive) gourmet choice, Gundel.
Practical Info
Most of the museums are closed on Monday. Entrance to the park is free but there are admission charges for the museums and Széchenyi baths, all discounted with the Budapest Card. Metro Line 1 to Heroes’ Square, Millennium or Széchenyi Fürdő.
Address: Városliget, Budapest, Hungary
From $ 23
Burg Square
The birth of the city of Bruges was heralded by Baldwin Iron Arm’s (Count of Flanders I) construction of a fortified castle on top of a hill in the 9th century. The castle was originally built to protect the area from invading Vikings and Normans and remained the seat of the Counts of Flanders for more than 500 years. The castle is now gone, but the charming public square which replaced it, known as the Burg, has been the heart of the city for centuries.
The Burg is just a short stroll from the Markt (Bruges’ other town square) and is home to a collection of historic buildings, which together represent almost every era in Bruges’ history. The most impressive buildings include the late medieval town hall, the Renaissance-style old civil registry and the neo-classical court of justice. The Burg is also home to the contemporary Toyo Ito pavilion, which sits on a shallow circle of water in the ruins of St. Donatius Church, built in the 10th century and destroyed during French occupation in 1799. The Toyo Ito pavilion was built to commemorate Bruges’ appointment as Cultural Capital of Europe in 2002.
Breidelstraat, a short street that connects the Burg to the Markt, is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants.
The Burg is just a short stroll from the Markt (Bruges’ other town square) and is home to a collection of historic buildings, which together represent almost every era in Bruges’ history. The most impressive buildings include the late medieval town hall, the Renaissance-style old civil registry and the neo-classical court of justice. The Burg is also home to the contemporary Toyo Ito pavilion, which sits on a shallow circle of water in the ruins of St. Donatius Church, built in the 10th century and destroyed during French occupation in 1799. The Toyo Ito pavilion was built to commemorate Bruges’ appointment as Cultural Capital of Europe in 2002.
Breidelstraat, a short street that connects the Burg to the Markt, is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants.
Address: Belgium
From $ 21
Budhanilkantha
The five-meter-long and thus biggest stone statue in Nepal, Budhanilkantha, portrays a sleeping Vishnu, floating like a gigantic astronaut on a bed of snakes in the middle of a big pool of water depicting the cosmic ocean. The incredibly well preserved carving is made out of black stone and is thought to be 1500 years old. Located in the village of the same name, the holy site is a popular spot for Hindus to practice puja, a prayer ritual to worship the gods. The daily ceremony entails priests – they are the only ones allowed to approach Vishnu’s divine head - washing the face and the feet of the sculpture with water and afterwards, applying a mixture of ghee, milk, yoghurt, honey and sugar on the same spots.
Later, since only Hindus are allowed to get close the statue, believers worship at its feet and leave offerings of food and flower petals. All other visitors have to be content with viewing the resting Vishnu from the sidelines. The only person who was never allowed to visit was the king back when Nepal was still a monarchy. Some say the reason is a curse, which would instantly kill the king if he saw the statue, while others claim that the monarch was the reincarnation of Vishnu and therefore, wasn’t allowed to see his own image.
By the way, the name Budhanilkantha has nothing to do with Buddha, but literally means “blue throat disguised by mud”. The peculiar name refers to two legends attached to the statue, one of them saying that a farmer found the long lost statue in the mud when working his field with a plough and the other saying that Vishnu sacrificed himself by drinking the poison of the cosmic ocean, which then turned his throat blue.
Practical Info
Budhanilkantha can be found about 15 kilometers north of Kathmandu. It’s easiest to get there either by taxi, or by taking one of the many busses and minibusses making the journey. When you get out, you can find the statue about 100 meters to the east of the Budhanilkantha stop.
Address: Budhanilkantha, Nepal
From $ 35
Burford
Burford is a small town in England along the River Windrush and is often referred to as the Gateway to the Cotswolds. The picturesque town is detailed with a medieval bridge, Tudor and Georgian buildings, and old stone houses. A former meeting place for merchants, the 16th century Tolsey building now houses the Tolsey Museum where visitors can learn about the town's social and industrial history. The town's church is another interesting place to look for signs of Burford's past by way of the memorials charting some of the greatest families that once lived there.
The town of Burford has in many ways remained unchanged over the centuries. It is a popular place for tourists looking to explore small town beauty and history. However, more modern appeals can be found as well. Burford is an interesting town for shopping and antiques, and there are plenty of restaurants, pubs, and tea shops to choose from. Despite its popularity, you can easily find a tranquil corner of town to enjoy the scenery.
Practical Info
Burford is located 74 miles west of London and 20 miles west of Oxford. It can be reached from Oxford by route A40, or by taking the train from Oxford to Hanborough and then a bus to Burford.
Address: Burford, South East England, United Kingdom, England
From $ 110
Bugis Street
One of the most famous shopping areas in Singapore, Bugis street is the home of some 800 busy shops, but it is perhaps the history there which makes it one of the more interesting landmarks in the country.
In the 1950s, Bugis Street gained notoriety as a place where transgendered locals would come down to hang out, driving a tourism boom that made it ideal for grabbing some push-cart, or hawker, food while enjoying a variety of inexpensive merchandise.
Today, the area is much more tamed and where the retail scene is still very much alive, but less of a scandalous place than it once was. Nonetheless, visitors still enjoy going to Bugis to listen about the history as well as get their hands on great local foods, candy and some of the most fashionable clothes in Singapore.
In the 1950s, Bugis Street gained notoriety as a place where transgendered locals would come down to hang out, driving a tourism boom that made it ideal for grabbing some push-cart, or hawker, food while enjoying a variety of inexpensive merchandise.
Today, the area is much more tamed and where the retail scene is still very much alive, but less of a scandalous place than it once was. Nonetheless, visitors still enjoy going to Bugis to listen about the history as well as get their hands on great local foods, candy and some of the most fashionable clothes in Singapore.
Address: Singapore
From $ 25
Budapest Zoo
Allow at least four hours to explore Budapest Zoo, opened in 1866 as the first in Hungary. It’s found in Budapest’s City Park (Városliget) and was almost destroyed during WWII. Since then its quirky Art Nouveau Bird House, Palm House and Elephant House have been restored and the zoo expanded. Conservation programs saw the births of rare Persian leopard cubs, Asiatic lion cubs and an Indian elephant in 2013.
There are more than 950 species of mammal, birds, reptiles, fish and insects in 14 different themed zones at the zoo. There’s a lot to pack in, so get a map at the ticket office so you don’t the miss reptile house full of snakes and lizards, giraffes and gazelles in the Savannah Zone, the lemurs in Madagascar House, the lions, rare birds flying free in the aviaries and the petting farm for toddlers.
There’s plenty going on daily to keep families amused. Highlights of the zoo’s activities include the pelican feasts at 10.30am; sea lion feeding at 11am, 2pm and 4.30pm; and camel walking at 12pm. Magic Mountain is the zoo’s newest attraction, with lots of interactive games for kids plus a 3D cinema showing wildlife movies and simulation rides.
There are more than 950 species of mammal, birds, reptiles, fish and insects in 14 different themed zones at the zoo. There’s a lot to pack in, so get a map at the ticket office so you don’t the miss reptile house full of snakes and lizards, giraffes and gazelles in the Savannah Zone, the lemurs in Madagascar House, the lions, rare birds flying free in the aviaries and the petting farm for toddlers.
There’s plenty going on daily to keep families amused. Highlights of the zoo’s activities include the pelican feasts at 10.30am; sea lion feeding at 11am, 2pm and 4.30pm; and camel walking at 12pm. Magic Mountain is the zoo’s newest attraction, with lots of interactive games for kids plus a 3D cinema showing wildlife movies and simulation rides.
Practical Info
Opening hours vary from month to month but are roughly 9am-6pm daily. Entrance tickets are discounted with the Budapest Card. There are secure bicycle stands at the zoo but limited parking. Metro Line 1 to Széchenyi Fürdő.
Address: Állatkerti körút 6-12, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Open daily from 9am to about 5pm or 6pm, depending on the season. Closing hours seasonally (with the earliest closure at 4pm), be sure to check the zoo's website for the most up to date closing times.
Admission: Adult: 2500 HUF; Child/Student: 1800 HUF
From $ 25
Bulguksa Temple
Just outside Gyeongju, South Korea’s Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its beautiful gardens and pagodas. Completed in 774, during the golden age of Silla architecture, the huge temple complex is said to have been commissioned by chief minister Kim Daeseong as a way of pacifying the spirits of his parents.
Bulguksa Temple is home to seven national treasures, including the original Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas and bronze Buddhas.
Korean for Temple of the Buddha Land, Bulguksa still acts as a working temple for the 11th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, and you’re likely to see monks performing ceremonies on your visit. Look out for the patio covered with stone stacks, too. It’s said that if you can add a stone to the top of a stack without it toppling over, your wish will come true. Keep a lookout for the local chipmunks who hang out on the patio, too.
The temple’s ornamental gardens are especially beautiful in spring, when the cherry blossoms peak. And as you walk through the gardens from Bulguksa’s parking lot to the temple, you’ll see vendors offering all sorts of foods, from silkworm larvae to candyfloss.
Practical Info
Bulguksa Temple is open daily, and entry costs 4,000 W for adults. To get to the temple from Gyeongju, take the 40-minute bus ride on no 10 or 11 from either the intercity or express bus terminals, or the train station. You can also hail a taxi, which’ll take around 20-25 minutes to reach Bulguksa from downtown.
Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Hours: Daily 7am-6pm
Admission: Adults 4,000 W, Youth 3,000 W, Children 2,000 W, Children Under 7 Free
From $ 62
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is perhaps the best place in Singapore for a look at Chinese Buddhism. Located in the heart of Chinatown, the temple is believed to house a sacred relic of the Buddha, housed within a gold stupa inside the temple.
While the temple exhibits Tang Dynasty architectural elements, it was actually built in 2007. In just a few short years, it has become a major landmark in Chinatown and a popular destination for both tourists and worshipers.
After visiting the main temple and viewing the various Buddha statuary, make sure to check out the museum on the third floor. Here, you’ll find a collection of Buddhist relics, artifacts and works of art. Also of interest is the History Gallery that outlines the conceptualization and construction of the temple. Admission to both the museum and temple is free, and guided tours in English are available twice per week.
While the temple exhibits Tang Dynasty architectural elements, it was actually built in 2007. In just a few short years, it has become a major landmark in Chinatown and a popular destination for both tourists and worshipers.
After visiting the main temple and viewing the various Buddha statuary, make sure to check out the museum on the third floor. Here, you’ll find a collection of Buddhist relics, artifacts and works of art. Also of interest is the History Gallery that outlines the conceptualization and construction of the temple. Admission to both the museum and temple is free, and guided tours in English are available twice per week.
Practical Info:
Routes to take by transit: Bus: 61, 166, 197, 80, and 145.
Address: 288 S Bridge Rd, 058840, Singapore
Hours: Daily: 7am - 7pm
From $ 17
Budapest Parliament (Orszaghaz)
Budapest Parliament (Orszaghaz) is one of the world’s most photogenic government buildings. Perched on the UNESCO World Heritage–listed banks of the Danube River, the mainly neo-Gothic structure features 691 rooms, a handful of which are open to the public—including the Domed Hall, where the Crown of St. Stephen is on display.
The Basics
Nearly half a million people visit the Budapest Parliament (aka Hungarian Parliament) each year, making it one of the city’s most popular attractions. Visitors must join a guided tour to enter, though sometimes the building opens to the public for concerts. For a more comprehensive day in Budapest, combine a tour of Parliament with a Danube River cruise, city sightseeing tour, or Hungarian folklore performance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Budapest Parliament is a must-see for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors.
- All visitors must pass through security when entering the building. Large bags are not permitted.
- Tours of the facilities last approximately 50 minutes.
- Photography is allowed throughout the building except for in the Dome Hall.
- There are restrooms in the visitor center.
- Parliament is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Budapest Parliament is centrally located on the banks of the Danube River, about a 10-minute walk from the Chain Bridge. To get there by public transportation, take the M2 (red) metro line, bus 15, or tram number 2.
When to Get There
While the visitor center and some rooms are open daily throughout the year, hours are restricted when the National Assembly meets for its plenary sitting, so be sure to check the schedule ahead of time.
Architecture of Parliament
Imre Steindl designed this striking edifice after winning a design competition in 1873. The eclectic building—with its neo-Gothic, medieval, and baroque styles—wasn’t fully completed until 1902. It took nearly 40 million bricks to construct, and the outside facade features 90 stone sculptures of figures from Hungarian history.
Address: 1-3 Kossuth tér, Budapest 1055, Hungary
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a lovely residential neighborhood located
between Gyeongbok and Changdeok Palaces, and is full of traditional hanok homes. It is a
place that perfectly embodies the heritage and culture of South Korea.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Practical Info
You can get to the village by taking subway line number 3 to
Anguk Station. Business hours for the cultural center exist throughout
the entire week, year-round, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through
Friday, and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. For a good place to
eat some local cuisine or just enjoy the atmosphere of a nice bar,
Samcheonggak offers both lunch and dinner menus from 12:00 until 10 pm.
The venue is also known for its performance hall where you can check out
some local acts.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 25
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is an urban oasis within the boundaries of Seoul. The park covers nearly 50 square miles (129 square kilometers) and contains hiking trails, sweeping mountaintop views, and streams rushing between gorges and granite peaks. Bukhansanseong Fortress and many Buddhist temples are also set here.
The Basics
Bukhansan National Park is a haven for hikers, climbers, and anyone looking to escape the bustle of South Korea’s capital city. Explore the park’s many hiking trails, climb Baegundae (Bukhansan’s highest peak), or visit the centuries-old Bukhansanseong Fortress.
Tours of Bukhansan National Park typically leave from Seoul and include a guided hike of Mt. Bukhan, plus a relaxing visit to a Korean-style spa or sauna (jjimjilbang). It’s also possible to visit the park on a contemporary art tour of Seoul, which usually includes a drive up Bukhansan Mountain to Gana Art Gallery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bukhansan National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Bring sun protection, plenty of water, and shoes suitable for hiking; much of the park is unsuitable for wheelchairs.
- The granite mountains can be slippery when wet; be careful if it has rained recently.
- Fans of rock climbing should check out Insubong peak, which has climbing routes for various skill levels.
How to Get There
Bukhansan National Park is located in northern Seoul and is easily accessible via public transportation. Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Dobongsan Station right at the park.
When to Get There
The park is open year-round but is especially beautiful in fall when the plentiful maple trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. Opt for a weekday visit to avoid crowds.
Trails in Bukhansan National Park
The park’s most popular hiking routes include the trail to the 2,746-foot (837-meter) Baegundae peak, the Insu-bong trail, the Mt. Bukhan hike, and the 43-mile (70-kilometer) Dulle Gil Trail, which connects forested paths along foothills and local villages and contains 21 sections.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 55
Budapest Castle Hill Funicular
Open since 1870, the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular carries passengers from Clark Adam Square and the Szechenyi Chain Bridge up to Buda Castle nearly 200 feet (61 m) above. Just the second funicular railway built in Europe, it was destroyed in World War II and reopened in 1986. More than 300 feet long, the funicular runs at a 40-degree incline and takes passengers up the equivalent of 30 flights of stairs. Two cars carry 24 passengers each and run in opposite directions; one is running uphill while the other runs downhill. On clear days, passengers enjoy superb views of the Danube River and the west side of Budapest as they ascend the funicular. There are also two pedestrian bridges crossing over the funicular tracks which offer closer views of the cars for those walking down from Buda Castle.
Practical Info
The base of the funicular is located on Clark Adam Square, just over the Szechenyi Chain Bridge on the Buda side of the Danube River. While it is within walking distance of many hotels on the Pest side by crossing the bridge, you can also take a tram or bus to Clark Adam Square. Funicular cars run every five to 10 minutes and the trip takes just a couple minutes.
Address: Adam Clark Square, Budapest, Hungary
Hours: Mon–Sun: 7:30am–10pm
Admission: HUF 1200 one way; HUF 1800 return
From $ 37
Bukit Melawati
Bukit Melawati (Melawati Hill) served as a stronghold for the Selangor Sultanate during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Remnants of the fort still dot the landscaped park now occupying the hill, including sections of wall, grave sites, a few cannons and a flat stone that was once used for beheadings.
Today the park attracts not only history buffs, but nature lovers and other visitors who come to take in the panoramic views of the Selangor coastline from the top of the hill. On a clear day the Straits of Malacca are visible in the distance. A lighthouse, built in 1910 by the British, sits at the summit, through it’s not open to visitors.
Silver-leafed monkeys and long-tailed macaques often hang around the park, hoping for a meal of peanuts or stolen snacks from unwary visitors.
Practical Info
A trail from the edge of town spirals up the hill to the top of Bukit Melawati. The walk takes about 20 minutes.
Address: Kuala Selangor 45000, Malaysia
Hours: 9am to 6pm
From $ 62
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
More money passes through the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington DC than most people make in a lifetime. At this federal agency managed by the US Department of the Treasury, visitors can see the country’s paper money being printed, learn about counterfeit currency, and explore how paper money has been made more secure.
The Basics
A visit to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing involves a free tour, where visitors can see millions of dollars being printed on the production floor. An introductory film outlines the printing process, and a gift shop sells a variety of currency products.
The bureau is part of several Washington DC tours, including half-day and day trips, and hop-on hop-off bus and Segway tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is a must-see for currency collectors, budget travelers, and anyone curious about the US currency system.
- All visitors to the bureau are required to go through security screening.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available upon request.
- Photography is not allowed inside the tour gallery.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to the bureau is to take the metro Blue or Orange Line to the Smithsonian station. The building is about a block away from the Independence Avenue/Bureau of Engraving and Printing exit. The Old Town Trolley Orange Loop also stops near the bureau at the intersection of Independence Avenue and 12th Street.
When to Get There
Tours are only available on weekdays. Since a limited number of tickets are available each day, it’s a good idea to show up a few minutes before the bureau opens to avoid disappointment.
Where Our Currency Comes From
Not all US currency comes from this Washington bureau. While the facility remains the largest producer of government security documents, the Washington DC location now shares responsibilities with another facility in Fort Worth. You won’t see coins being made at either location; that’s the job of the United States Mint.
Address: 300 14th Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20228, USA
From $ 14