Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Bamboo Forest
Even in the middle of a sunny day, hikers here will often find they are strolling along in near darkness. The towering bamboo is so thick in places that it nearly blocks out the sun, and it creaks and whistles high in the branches as it blows in the East Maui wind. The dense jungle of bamboo aside, what makes this hike such a Maui favorite is the multiple waterfalls and swimming holes. Reaching the waterfalls can be treacherous, however, as the trail leading down from the highway to the falls is steep, slippery, and dirt. Even the entrance requires skirting a fence that has been cleared for easier entry, and it’s a “proceed at your own risk” type of trail that isn’t officially marked.
For those who choose to visit, however, four different waterfalls splash their way through a forest is laden with bamboo and guava. Each waterfall has a small swimming hole where you can escape the midday heat, and the bottom two falls are the most accessible for hikers who are simply visiting on their own. The uppermost falls are more difficult to reach as they require scaling ladders and ropes, and flash floods can sometimes occur in the narrow upper canyon. It’s best to only attempt these falls if visiting with a local or guide. Even only visiting the two bottom pools, however, is an enchanting tropical outing, and is a great way to get out and stretch your legs on the winding road out to Hana.
Practical Info
The Bamboo Forest is at mile marker 6.5, just past the village of Wailua. Parking is located along the mauka (mountain side) of the road, and overflow parking can be found around the bend by the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees. Accidents can—and do—happen when hiking along this trail, so be sure to exercise extra caution when setting out on the hike.
Address: Pipiwai Trail, Wailua, Hawaii, USA
From $ 173
Ballast Point
Since first being brewed at home by two friends in college, Ballast Point has risen the ranks of craft breweries nationwide and tops the San Diego brewing scene. Their Sculpin IPA is well recognized by beer enthusiasts, receiving gold medal awards for its flavor and balance.
A visit to the original brewery allows for tastings of their beers as well as a behind-the-scenes look at production. You’ll also learn about the history of the brewery and their unique styles of brewing. The brewery is also a great place to try many of the experimental and/or seasonal brews that may only be available on site. Flavors such as grapefruit, habanero pepper, and watermelon are available to sample, and more than twenty beers are on rotation fresh from the tap.
San Diego is known as a top craft brewery city in the whole of the United States, and Ballast Point has become a hallmark of its beer scene. It’s a must-stop on any tour of the city’s breweries.
Practical Info
There are four Ballast Point tasting rooms across San Diego. You can find them in the Miramar, Little Italy, Scripps Ranch, and Home Brew Mart locations. Free tours of the brewery are given four times daily, last around 45 minutes and require reservations in advance. Tastings, pints, and growlers are available at all locations.
Address: 10051 Old Grove Rd, San Diego, California, USA
Hours: Mon–Sat 11am–11pm, Sun 11am-9pm
From $ 85
Banff Lake Louise
The turquoise jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise sits nestled between glaciers, beckoning visitors with its mirror-like waters, serene setting, and plethora of summer and winter activities, from hiking to snowshoeing. The mountain resort town of Banff is just down the Trans-Canada Highway from Lake Louise.
The Basics
Lake Louise is the name of both the lake and hamlet inside Banff National Park, each located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) apart. Part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is near Jasper National Park and glacial attractions like Athabasca Glacier, the Columbia Icefield, and the Glacier Skywalk. You might spend the majority of your time at Lake Louise, or take a tour from Banff that covers Kootenay National Park, Marble Canyon, and the lake. Hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking are popular summertime pursuits, while Lake Louise Ski Resort provides wintertime recreation and some winter tours include snowshoe treks. To see nearby sites without transportation hassles, take a hop-on hop-off bus through Banff, with stops running from Banff townsite to Lake Louise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The elevation of Lake Louise is 5,740 feet (1,750 meters), while Banff is at 4,540 feet (1,384 meters); drink plenty of water to stay hydrated at the high altitudes.
- Some short trails in the area provide wheelchair accessibility, such as the Banff Legacy Trail and Bow Riverside Trail.
- The area’s public shuttles are not wheelchair accessible.
- A Park Pass is required to enter Banff National Park and to travel on the scenic parkways such as the Icefields Parkway; this requirement is covered in most tours.
How to Get There
Lake Louise is 35 miles (57 kilometers) northwest of Banff, which is 79 miles (127 kilometers) west of Calgary, Alberta’s largest city and home to Calgary International Airport. The Rocky Mountaineer has regularly scheduled train service with a stop in Banff. Once in Banff, the hop-on hop-off bus tour provides transportation around Banff National Park, including to Lake Louise.
When to Get There
Banff and Lake Louise are year-round destinations, so plan your visit according to the experiences that interest you. Warm-weather activities like hiking generally run from June to mid-October with July and August being the warmest months. The larch trees around Lake Louise turn yellow and orange in late September or early October. Winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing run from December through April.
Visiting the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
In addition to natural splendor, Lake Louise boasts a man-made icon, as well—the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Dating back to 1911, the luxury hotel has hosted Hollywood stars and European royalty and is worth a visit for afternoon tea, a fondue dinner, a spa treatment, or a drink with a view of the turquoise lake.
Address: Trans-Canada Highway, Lake Louise T0L 1E0, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 46
Badwater
Death Valley National Park is famous for containing the lowest point in all of North America, and that point is found within the Badwater Basin, which bottoms out at 282 feet below sea level. Here the salt-crusted earth cracks under the sweltering heat, which can reach upwards of 125 degrees F. In some spots within the basin, small pools of salt water just a couple inches deep stand on the desert floor, yet even here life persists. These pools are the habitat of the Death Valley pupfish, a small blue or mottled brown fish that evolved to live in the hot, salty water.
Practical Info
Badwater sits just south of Furnace Creek, about 20 minutes drive. A sign in the surrounding mountains marks sea level, and a boardwalk leads down into the basin, past the pools and salt flats.
Address: Badwater Road, Furnace Creek 92328, USA
Admission: The entrance fee for Death Valley National Park is $20 per car.
From $ 80
Bal Harbour
Separated from the mainland of Florida by only a small strip of water, Bal Harbour is a small, upscale community on the island of Miami Beach. The affluent area is most known for its luxury shops, high rise apartment buildings, and St. Regis hotel. The beautiful Bal Harbour Shops include high-end retailers and designers such as Prada, Gucci, Versace, Hermes, Chanel, and Tiffany. And the open-air shopping center features many palm fronds and a tropical feel that is fun to explore.
The Bal Harbour Beach is a wide expanse of fine white sand in the shadows of the nearby buildings. It is difficult to access without direct access to the surrounding structures, so the tropical beach is (for the most part) private. Bal Harbour has fine dining and cocktail options as well — though the island is mostly quiet and peaceful in the evenings.
Practical Info
Bal Harbour is located on the northern tip of the barrier island known as Miami Beach, between Surfside and Haulover beaches. The island is about 10 miles from north to south. To get there from downtown Miami, take I-195 E. It’s about a 40 minute drive, and taxis run about $30 from South Beach.
Address: Bal Harbour, Florida 33154, USA
From $ 179
Bally's
Once known as the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, Bally’s Las Vegas is one of the strip’s most famous hotels. With nearly 3,000 guestrooms that are 450 square feet (or larger!)—most of which were recently renovated—Bally’s is quintessential Las Vegas glitz, glam and luxury. A neon-wrapped moving sidewalk, more than 100 shops, a handful of diverse restaurants and even the long-running show Jubilee are among the features that make this Las Vegas strip hotel a favorite among travelers. Theater lovers can check out other in-hotel performances like “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding”, a country superstars musical tribute and even a new adults-only show called “50 Shades! The Parody”. Fitness buffs will love the contemporary gym facilities, championship tennis courts and pool—perfect for relaxing after a night at the casino.
Practical Info
Bally’s is located at 3645 South Las Vegas Boulevard.
Address: 3645 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
From $ 13
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is one of two parks protecting Alberta’s Rocky Mountains bordering British Columbia; the other park is Jasper.
You’ll see some of the most astounding landscapes on the planet in Banff National Park: snowcapped mountains, huge river valleys, alpine forests, ludicrously blue lakes and charming mountain hamlets.
Covering 6,641 square km (2,564 square miles), Banff was the first national park to be declared in Canada, focusing on the area’s famous thermal hot springs.
Most visitors come to Banff National Park for the legendary skiing, spectacular views and peerless rock climbing and hiking. The park has information centers in Banff, Lake Louise and Upper Hot Springs.
Practical Info
Banff National Park is crossed by the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), linking Lake Louise in the south with Jasper in the north.
Hire a car to come here, take an organized tour, catch a bus from Calgary or ride the sightseeing train between Banff and Vancouver.
Address: Icefields Parkway, Banff T1L 1K2, Canada
Admission: CA$9.80
From $ 45
Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas)
Located near Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas) is famous for its 42-mile (68-kilometer) stretch of picturesque coast. Jungle, sandy beaches, and rich aquatic life define this area, which is ideal for watersports and land adventures alike.
The Basics
Most tours exploring Banderas Bay’s terrestrial and aquatic offerings leave from Puerto Vallarta. Explore the bay’s waters on a snorkeling excursion, some of which also include kayaking and a visit to Marietas Islands National Park. If you’re a certified diver, you can opt for a scuba diving tour to explore undersea tunnels, hidden caves, and reefs brimming with tropical fish. Sailing tours are another option for experiencing the picturesque bay. On land, you can pedal along the coastline on a biking tour, delve into local culture on a taco-tasting tour, or explore the jungle on a day trip to nearby Las Caletas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banderas Bay is a must-see for nature and beach lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water for outdoor excursions.
- Proof of PADI certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb aquatic or terrestrial wildlife.
When to Get There
April through June is the best time to visit Banderas Bay, when rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists. January through March is the best time for whale watching, although the area tends to be crowded during this time.
How to Get There
Part of the Pacific Ocean, Banderas Bay borders Puerto Vallarta and stretches between Punta Mita in the north and Cape Corrientes in the south. Puerto Vallarta is the main jumping-off point for tours and activities in the area. The closest international airport is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, located roughly three miles (five kilometers) from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Whale Watching in Banderas Bay
Among the most popular outdoor activities in Banderas Bay, whale watching tours provide an opportunity to see humpback whales, which travel to the bay in early December for mating and calving. Most of these excursions leave from Marina Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 32
Azteca Stadium
Soccer—or fútbol as it’s called in Spanish—is an integral part of Mexican culture. For the country’s people, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca), which is the largest stadium in Mexico, is the heart of the sport. Home to the professional soccer team Club América and the Mexican national team, the 84,000-seat stadium is the first venue to host two FIFA World Cup finals, and it will welcome a third in 2026.
The Basics
Its name a tribute to Mexico City’s Aztec heritage, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca) opened its doors in 1966 and continues to draw throngs of fans every year. In addition to the World Cups in 1970 and 1986, the stadium hosted the 1986 quarter-final match between Argentina and England, where both the memorable “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” were scored.
Besides scoring tickets to a match, die-hard soccer fans can get their fix with a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue, which usually includes a look at the inner workings, such as a visit to the locker rooms, press room, and bench area, plus a walk onto the legendary field.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The stadium is a popular attraction, so tours may sell out; book early to avoid missing it.
- There are no tours on match days or the day before a home match.
- Match tickets can be purchased at the gates on game day or online ahead of time.
How to Get There
In the Santa Ursula neighborhood of Mexico City and about nine miles (15 kilometers) from the historic center, the stadium is accessible via the Azteca station on the Xochimilco Light Rail line, which connects to the city’s metro system at the Tasqueña station. (The light rail and metro require two different tickets.) It’s also about a 30- to 40-minute car ride from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
The Mexican football league system (Club América is part of the Liga MX division) divides its season into two: Apertura (opening season) and Clausura (closing season), each with its own tournament and champion. If you want to catch a match, visit Azteca Stadium from July to December (Apertura) and from January to May (Clausura).
Tips for Attending a Match at Azteca Stadium
Like with most sporting events, you’ll have to contend with traffic, security, and unruly football fans on match day. Some things to keep in mind
- Be sure to head to the stadium early, especially if you still need to purchase tickets.
- Don’t wear a belt because it will most likely be confiscated by security (although there are vendors who will babysit it during the match for a fee).
- Carry some extra pesos in your pocket to give to the bathroom attendants in exchange for toilet paper.
Address: Calz de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Ursula Coapa, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, D.F. Mexico 04650, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Baker Beach
Tucked beneath the bluffs of the Presidio on the northwest edge of San Francisco, Baker Beach is a local favorite where a picnic on the sand comes with excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Baker Beach offers a respite from the busy city and a chance to spot dolphins just offshore.
The Basics
Baker Beach is best seen on a coastal walking tour, where you can admire views of the Marin Headlands and the Pacific as it meets San Francisco Bay. The California Coastal Trail and Batteries to Bluffs Trail run along this part of the city’s shoreline. Visitors can also head to the beach independently; take a blanket and a picnic, and enjoy a couple of hours relaxing on the beach.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Baker Beach is ideal for nature lovers and those who want to experience San Francisco the way locals do.
- Picnic tables, barbecue grills, and restrooms are available.
- With a strong current, the water here is considered too rough for swimming.
- Bring layers, no matter what the season or current weather; the wind and fog can appear quickly in this part of the city.
- The very northern end of the beach is frequented by clothing-optional sunbathers.
How to Get There
Via public transportation, hop on the PresidiGo shuttle or the 29 Muni bus. There is a parking lot if you have your own car.
When to Get There
Photography buffs will want to go at sunset for shots of the ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin Headlands in the evening light. Traditional beach weather doesn’t often come to San Francisco, but September and October are usually the warmest, sunniest months. Sunny weekend days are typically very crowded.
Battery Chamberlain
History and war buffs will want to stop by Battery Chamberlain, located just above the beach, where once a month the National Park Service opens the site to let visitors see the 50-ton “disappearing gun”—a relic of the Presidio’s military past.
Address: San Francisco, California, USA, USA
From $ 34
Balankanche Caves
Balankanche Caves are some of the most famous Mayan cave sites in the world, not far from Chichen Itza. An underground network of dry tunnels called ‘grutas,’ they are similar to the cenotes but without water. The many caverns are filled with interesting rock formations, including stalagmites and stalactites formed from the dripping of mineral rich water over thousands of years.
Translated ‘Balankache’ means ‘hidden sacred throne’ or altar. Balankanche has long been the site of Mayan ritual and ceremony, with special significance due to a formation that resembles the holy Ceiba tree. It is not uncommon to encounter offerings and relics left here in honor of the structure or in tribute to the Mayan rain god Chaac. There is a light and sound show that narrates the history and culture of this particular place, as well as a museum and botanical garden near the entrance to the cave.
Practical Info
Though underground, the caves can get rather hot in temperature. It is recommended to bring water, flashlights, and of course, a guide. The Balankanche Caves are located 6 kilometers from the World Heritage Site of Chichen Itza, with an entrance fee of 105 pesos.
Address: Mexico
Admission: 105 pesos
From $ 173
Back Bay
One of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Boston, Back Bay is famous for its architecturally significant buildings, including a series of Victorian brownstone homes. Back Bay is considered one of America’s most desirable areas, and it’s not uncommon to spot celebrities along the prime shopping streets. With that, one of the best ways to explore the neighborhood is to book a Back Bay photography tour, which will take you to the most important and significant buildings.
Some of the most exclusive real estate in Boston is located in Back Bay, which was once just a stagnant pool of water behind the Public Garden. Newbury Street, Boylston Street and Commonwealth Avenue are now among the most popular spots in the area.
Be sure to visit the Boston Public Garden, the largest and oldest botanical garden in the country, established in 1837. It's where many visitors start their tour of Back Bay. Another landmark to visit is the Old South Church at Copley Square, which holds local historical significance as one of the original meeting places of the Sons of Liberty during the Revolutionary War period, and it’s also an important example of classic Northern Italian Gothic architecture. Other buildings worth visiting in Back Bay include Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library, and the neighborhood is also home to the John Hancock Tower and Prudential Center, the two tallest buildings in Boston’s skyline. For shopping, hit Newbury Street, which runs the length of the entire neighborhood. This street is where you will find the historic brownstones and lots of shopping and restaurants.
Practical Info
The easiest ways to visit Back Bay in Boston is on the subway via the Orange and Green lines. It is highly recommended you don’t drive in Back Bay as traffic can be a nightmare, especially on Newbury Street.
Address: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 35
Bainbridge Island
A half-hour’s ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a relaxing side trip in Puget Sound. The quaint downtown area stretches just a few blocks from the ferry terminal down Winslow Avenue, which is lined with art and antique shops, clothing boutiques, and cafés and restaurants, many of which focus on using regionally-sourced ingredients in their farm-to-table cuisine.
Aside from the small commercial district, the majority of the island is residential or rural, dotted with small bed and breakfasts and even a few vineyards. The main draw of visiting, other than simply rest and relaxation, is the outdoor activities. Hiking and biking are popular, with miles of trails traversing the rolling hills. Other activities popular with locals and visitors include kayaking, whale-watching, and viewing other wildlife like deer and bald eagles. Kayak and bike rentals are both available year round as temperatures are fairly mild any time of year; summers are warm and winters are chilly, but rarely colder than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ferries from downtown Seattle run multiple times a day, all year round, and cost just a few dollars (more if you plan to bring a car), making Bainbridge Island an ideal day or weekend side trip from Seattle.
Address: USA
From $ 149
Bandelier National Monument
Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico includes ancient pueblo buildings as well as vast areas of wilderness and lots of hiking trails. The whole area covers 50 square miles, most of which remain the natural landscape, including the Rio Grande and the Jemez Mountains. The main attractions at Bandelier, however, are the ruins of the ancient people who once lived there.
There are several ancient homes, as well as rock paintings and petroglyphs, both near the modern ground level of the canyon and some further up the rock wall. The ruins and markings date from the 12th through 17th century, though there is evidence that people inhabited the area more than 10,000 years ago.
Practical Info
Bandelier National Monument is open daily year-round from dawn to dusk. The visitor center hours vary by season, and the park hours may vary during inclement weather. There is a $12 vehicle entry fee, which includes everyone riding in the vehicle, or $6 per person for anyone walking or cycling into the monument. There are fees to camp at the two campgrounds inside the monument – reservations are required for one, and not possible for the other.
Address: 15 Entrance Road, Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA 87544, USA
Admission: Individual: $6; Vehicle: $12
From $ 80
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola promises gasp-worthy views of the Canadian Rockies. After an 8-minute ride to Sulphur Mountain’s 7,500-foot (2,286-meter) summit, visitors arrive at a complex with several viewing areas, interactive exhibits, and restaurants. Also here are hiking trailheads and access to an elevated boardwalk leading to Sanson’s Peak.
The Basics
The Banff Gondola is the quickest and easiest way to get to the top of a Rocky Mountain peak.
You can purchase tickets in advance, choosing between morning, midday, and evening departures. Journey up via the glass-enclosed, 4-person gondola, then explore the summit at your leisure, enjoying the lofty vantage point of the 360-degree deck, walking the 0.66-mile (1-kilometer) Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station, following the South East Ridge Trail to the mountain’s true summit, and browsing the hands-on exhibits at the Above Banff interpretive center. On select winter nights, stargazing sessions are held at the summit’s station. Adventurous visitors can hike 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) of strenuous trail and switchbacks up Sulphur Mountain to the gondola’s upper terminal and take a one-way gondola ride down. You also can visit the summit as part of a broader sightseeing tour that includes other Banff National Park highlights such as Tunnel Mountain Drive, Two Jack Viewpoint, and Lake Minnewanka.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors who hike one way and ride the gondola the other way still have to pay for a round-trip ticket.
- It can be cold at the summit station, even in summer, so bring extra layers.
- The Banff Gondola is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Banff Gondola lower terminal is located about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) south of Banff town center. To get there, take the Route 1 Roam bus from Banff town, which leaves around every 40 minutes. Driving from Banff via Mountain Avenue takes around 10 minutes; parking is available at the lower terminal.
When to Get There
The Banff Gondola is busiest on summer weekends, so if you’re visiting then, arrive early in the day. During the winter months, the snowy vistas are magical and the summit is generally very peaceful. Summer is prime hiking season in this part of Canada; trails can be slippery in spring and fall, and icy in winter. The gondola closes for around two weeks every January to allow for maintenance work.
What You Can See From the Top
Upon arrival at the top of Sulphur Mountain, you are treated to astonishing views encompassing six different mountain ranges. Directly below is the town of Banff itself, the Bow River, and the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Often you can spot shaggy bighorn sheep grazing on the slopes.
Address: Mountain Avenue, Banff AB T1L 1B2, Canada
Hours: Hours vary by season
Admission: CA$62
From $ 34
Bahia de Cabo San Lucas
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas is the cape’s hub for water sports and beach activities.
Rent jet skis and kayaks at Medano Beach, or hang out at the resorts lining the long stretch of sand overlooking the bay.
Take an underwater snorkel tour of the bay and nearby Sea of Cortez, or go diving off the Chileno reef or Cabo Pulmo Marine Park.
There are charter boats for sports fishing in the world’s marlin capital, or more gentle cruising in a glass-bottom boat on the bay at sunset. For youngsters, what could be better than a cruise aboard a pirate buccaneer’s cruise, me hearties.
Practical Info
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas washes east of the marina and north along Cabo San Lucas’ many swimming beaches.
Address: Lazaro Cardenas, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Baltimore’s revitalized Inner Harbor features a scenic waterfront promenade and pedestrian district replete with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Heralded by urban developers as a model for post-industrial waterfront land use, the area sits along the Patapsco River at the mouth of Jones Falls.
The Basics
Highlights include the Harborplace shopping center, waterfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and other specialties, and Baltimore’s pyramid-shaped National Aquarium—home to jellyfish, dolphins, and sharks. You can also learn about the city’s seafaring history at the Maritime Museum.
Whether you want to stroll along the promenade or cruise above the city in a helicopter, there are multiple options for exploring Baltimore’s Inner Harbor area. Dinner cruises and yacht charters are a good way to explore Chesapeake Bay, while ghost tours and walking tours typically depart from the Inner Harbor area and include visits to sites such as Key Bridge, Fort McHenry, and the Federal Hill neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Inner Harbor is great for kids, as many of its attractions are within easy walking distance.
- Most of the Inner Harbor is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps and elevators throughout. Limited parking at the Visitor Center is specifically designed for visitors with disabilities.
- Dogs are allowed along the waterfront promenade.
- Many Inner Harbor restaurants serve up Baltimore's specialty: crab cakes and other crab-based dishes.
How to Get There
The Inner Harbor is bounded by President, Lombard, Greene, and Camden streets. Water taxis are a good way to get around; from the Inner Harbor, you can cross the Bay to Little Italy, Fells Point, and Canton. Day passes are also available for the Metro Subway and bus systems.
When to Get There
The Inner Harbor typically hosts events during spring, summer, and fall. Although summer can be hot and humid, the breeze off Chesapeake Bay cools things off a bit. Baltimore has milder winters than most Northeast cities, so this can still be a pleasant time to explore.
Haunted Baltimore
Baltimore's (and Maryland's) history is long and complicated. Learn all about it—and mingle with paranormal-activity buffs from all over the world—on a ghost tour or wicked-history tour, which includes stops at the city’s most haunted spots.
Address: Pratt Street, Baltimore MD 21202, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 21
Baltimore Little Italy
This cozy neighborhood is located in downtown Baltimore in between the Inner Harbor and historic Fells Point. Millions of people visit Little Italy every year, and when they come, they eat well. The neighborhood is loaded with family-owned restaurants, serving dishes, they say, just like mamma used to make.
Little Italy is also known for its festivals and neighborhood events. From bocce ball games and tournaments to outdoor movies and pasta dinners, the neighborhood calendar is always busy. Don’t want to worry about a schedule? Its narrow streets are nice for strolling without a plan.
Practical Info
Baltimore’s Little Italy is a short walk from the Inner Harbor. Visitors can also come by water taxi, subway or car. Along with free street parking (three-hour limit), there are many parking lots for those who plan to stay longer and many restaurants offer free parking.
Address: Baltimore, Maryland, USA
From $ 15
Balboa Park
Home to world-class museums, manicured gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park tops the list of San Diego city sights. Its 1,200 lush acres (486 hectares) comprise the largest urban park in the United States. Apart from its many attractions, Balboa Park also features lengthy walking and hiking trails, distinctive landscaping, Golden Age Spanish buildings, and one of the world’s largest outdoor pipe organs.
The Basics
A visit to the park is included on most San Diego city sightseeing tours, and Segway tours are another popular way to explore Balboa. The central part of the park houses the renowned San Diego Zoo and its more than 3,000 animals. At the Museum of Man, part of the California Quadrangle and its distinctive arch, you can see Native American artifacts and other cultural archaeology exhibits. The San Diego Museum of Art displays a number of European works, and nearby sites include the Timken Museum of Art, the Botanical Building, the Natural History Museum, Alcazar Gardens, the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages, and the Spanish Village Art Center. The east end of the park holds the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Explore the area on foot or use the free Balboa Park Tram, which loops continuously around the main areas of the park daily from 9am to 6 or 8pm.
- Balboa Park is kid-friendly, with a miniature train, playgrounds, and play areas in most museums.
- With so many options, it’s best to prioritize your desired stops in the park. You can pick up a park map at the Balboa Park Visitors Center in the House of Hospitality.
- Free concerts on the Spreckels Organ are held every Sunday at 2pm, and on Monday evenings at 7:30pm from late June through August.
- Eating options abound throughout the park. Be sure to check out the Prado for diverse cuisine and museum-inspired decor.
How to Get There
Set in downtown San Diego, Balboa Park is easily reached by bus. By car, Park Boulevard provides easy access to the site’s free parking areas near most of the exhibits. The most scenic approach, however, is over the Cabrillo Bridge from the west—the steep roadsides, lush with hanging greenery, resemble a rain forest gorge.
When to Get There
Balmy San Diego is famous for its year-round sunshine and mild climate. Balboa Park is open year-round and 24 hours a day, with the Visitors Center open from 9:30am to 4:30pm. The zoo, museums, and other attractions have varying opening hours.
Things to Do Near Balboa Park
Although countless activities are available in Balboa Park, the location is an ideal base for seeing some of San Diego’s other top sights. The beaches of La Jolla, the charm of Old Town, and the bustle of the historic Gaslamp Quarter are just a short drive away.
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego 92101, USA
Hours: Open 24 hours a day. Visitors Center: 9:30am - 4:30pm. Museum hours vary by institution
Admission: Park and Gardens: free. Admission prices to museums vary by institution
From $ 15
Ballard District
Seattle’s hip, thriving Seattle waterfront neighborhood of Ballard is home to landmarks such as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (commonly known as the Ballard Locks), Golden Gardens Park, the Nordic Heritage Museum, and the Shilsole Bay Marina. It also boasts some of Seattle’s best restaurants, pubs, shops, spas, and parks.
The Basics
Since 1853, this historic Scandinavian neighborhood, also known as Snoose Junction, has been cultivating its fashionable image—and now you can walk Ballard’s busy tree-lined streets and see how all the hard work has paid off. Most Seattle highlights tours include a stop at the impressive Ballard Locks and a stroll through this bustling neighborhood. Watch the Ballard Locks open and allow ships through, explore the Nordic Heritage Museum, shop the ever-popular Market Street, or enjoy the eclectic restaurants and pubs on Ballard Avenue. Golden Gardens’ sandy beach, along the Puget Sound, is a great place for kids to run around and wade. Look out for unique curio shops and try to catch the Ballard Farmers Market, a Seattle staple.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ballard has become known as a foodie hot spot, so a restaurant stop is a must—with reservations, of course.
- If cycling—a popular pastime in Seattle—you can pass over the ship canal between Ballard and Magnolia.
How to Get There
To get to Ballard from downtown Seattle, drive north on 1st Avenue, veer left at the foot of Queen Anne Hill, then continue northward until you cross the Ballard Bridge. Turn left onto NW Market Street.
When to Get There
Seattle’s rain-soaked reputation is mostly valid, but not from June through September, which are the best months to visit. In Ballard, ships pass through the locks year-round, regardless of weather. Be prepared to wait in line for brunch when the farmers market, open 10am to 3pm on Sundays, draws crowds to the neighborhood.
The Ballard Locks
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known simply as the Ballard Locks, are one of the neighborhood’s top draws. The locks allow boats of all sizes to pass between Lake Union and the Puget Sound. Between each step of the locks, the water level drops as much as 26 feet (eight meters) and exchanges salt water with fresh water. The passage is also important to the area’s fish populations, including salmon and steelhead trout; there is a fish ladder and an observation window where visitors can watch the fish passing through.
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