Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa
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El Capitan
Yes, it's a big rock, but what makes El Capitan a must-witness sight in Yosemite is the fact that it's the largest exposed-granite monolith in the world. Oh, and people climb it. Rising 3,593 feet (1095 meters)—more than 350 stories—above the Valley, El Capitan was once considered impossible to climb. However, since Warren Harding first conquered the "nose" in 1958, El Capitan has become the standard for big-wall climbing.
Take binoculars to spot the little bits of color that pinpoint adventurous climbers tackling the smooth and nearly vertical cliff.
Take binoculars to spot the little bits of color that pinpoint adventurous climbers tackling the smooth and nearly vertical cliff.
Practical Info
El Capitan is located on the north side of Yosemite Valley, across from Bridalveil Fall; you can get a great view from the pullover at Tunnel View. If you're interested in reaching the top of El Capitan, hike the trail next to Yosemite Falls then head west. If a face-to-face view of El Capitan is more your style, Yosemite Mountaineering School offers climbing lessons to guests of all ages and abilities.
Address: El Capitan, Yosemite National Park, CA, USA
From $ 74
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Set on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is best known for its population of West Indian manatees. The park is primarily a rehabilitation center for the creatures, which swim in the freshwater spring while they are treated. On land, native Florida wildlife thrives in the dense surrounding forest.
The Basics
Homosassa Springs houses treasures both on land and below the water’s surface. Head to the Fish Bowl underwater observatory to see the manatees and 34 varieties of fish at close range, or board a pontoon boat to cruise the Homosassa River, keeping an eye out for gators, turtles, and otters, plus dozens of bird species. A Wildlife Walk winds through the forest, offering a chance to spot elusive wolves, bobcats, and panthers. Most tours of the park leave from Orlando and include opportunities to swim and snorkel with the docile manatees in nearby Crystal River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with ramps, elevators, and accessible boats and trams.
- Picnic areas are located along the Garden of the Springs and near the Fish Bowl.
- The Wildside Café, located at the park’s west entrance, offers concessions and coffee.
- While pets are not allowed in the park, a free kennel at the entrance offers a place to house your pet while you explore.
How to Get There
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is located off Highway 19 near Homosassa Springs, roughly 70 minutes from Tampa and 90 minutes from Orlando by road. Parking is available on site.
When to Get There
Plan to spend about four hours at Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to hit all the walking trails, enjoy the educational programs, and take a pontoon boat tour. Winter is an especially good time to visit because the manatee population typically peaks during this season.
West Indian Manatees
Also known as the sea cow, West Indian manatees inhabit Florida’s freshwater springs. Slow-moving bottom feeders, these docile animals are at high risk for being injured by boat propellers. Since a dip in population in the 1990s, the manatees have been protected under the Endangered Species Act, and their population has rebounded to around 6,000 individuals in Florida.
Address: 4150 South Suncoast Boulevard, Homosassa, Florida 34448, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 139
Elfreth's Alley
Dating to 1702, this cobblestone lane in Old City between North 2nd Street & North Front Street, between Arch & Race Streets , is billed as, “Our nation’s oldest street.” Named for an 18th-century blacksmith who lived and worked here, this block-long wander features Federal and Georgian-style brick buildings that once served as shops and houses for a variety of Philadelphia tradesmen: glassblowers, pewter smiths, furniture makers, shipwrights and more.
By the early 20th century, the character of the surrounding neighborhood had turned into a seedy waterfront, a decidedly undesirable spot for tourists. By the mid-1930s, the Alley was threatened with demolition, but was saved by a neighborhood association; now a National Historic Landmark, it remains one of the city’s most rare examples of 18th-century architecture.
While the street itself is essentially a living museum, houses No. 124-126 actually comprise a small museum that details daily life in the Alley’s heyday. Residents of modern-day Elfreth’s Alley open their doors to the public twice a year for holiday celebrations: mid-December’s Christmas-themed “Deck the Alley” and the Alley’s own “Fete Day” in early June.
Address: 126 Elfreths Alley, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106, USA
Hours: April-Dec: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12pm-5pm. Jan-March: Thurs-Sun 11am-5pm
From $ 25
Embarcadero
San Diego's Embarcadero sits on the east side of San Diego Bay, and its waterfront promenades stretch along Harbor Drive—perfect for a leisurely stroll with many sightseeing opportunities and unobstructed views of Coronado Bridge. Its attractions include the Maritime Museum, USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village, and Embarcadero Marina Park.
The Basics
Fans of historic maritime vessels will enjoy a visit to the Maritime Museum, the highlight of which is the Star of India, and the USS Midway Museum. Seaport Village is a must-visit for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Embarcadero Marina Park, with its public fishing pier and open-air amphitheater, lies to the south.
The Embarcadero is included in most San Diego sightseeing tours—on foot and via Segway. There’s also a popular amphibious water and land “duck” tour to consider. Set aside some time to visit the museums.
Things to Know Before You Go
- See the Embarcadero as part of a small-group or private city tour or harbor cruise.
- A must-do for families with kids and first-time visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’re visiting the museums.
- Bring a hat or sunglasses, as there’s little shade along the waterfront.
- Parking is plentiful throughout the area.
How to Get There
The Embarcadero is in Downtown San Diego and is easily accessible via car, bus, and San Diego Trolley. Most visitors arrive as part of a guided tour of San Diego. For easy transportation to and from the museums and attractions, hop on the Waterfront Shuttle, which stops along Harbor Drive and runs seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
When to Get There
Thanks to Southern California’s amazing year-round weather, any time is a good time to visit. The Embarcadero is busiest in summer; during this time, plan to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and avoid traffic. Other times of the year are less crowded.
San Diego’s Seaport Village
South of the Midway, Seaport Village is a waterfront shopping and dining destination with novelty shops, casual eateries, fine dining restaurants, a historic carousel, and outdoor entertainment. With walkways that connect to Downtown San Diego, plenty of parking, and convenient public transport stops, it’s a great place to begin or end your visit.
Address: East Harbor Drive, San Diego, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Exit Glacier
Exit Glacier, the only part of Kenai Fjords National Park that's accessible by road, is also one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. Visitors can hike right up to the wall of blue ice to listen as it crackles and learn about how this and other glaciers from the Harding Icefield have reshaped the landscape over time.
The Basics
Since Exit Glacier is so easy to drive to, it’s included on many tours of Seward, along with attractions such as Resurrection Bay and the Alaska SeaLife Center. A short walk leads from the parking area through a forest and along a gravel river bed to the glacier, with markers indicating the glacier’s recession over the past century. The Edge of the Glacier Trail offers the best views of the front of the ice, while the Harding Icefield Trail climbs some 3,500 feet (1,067 meters) for views of the giant Harding Icefield (the source of 38 named glaciers).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Exit Glacier is a must for adventure travelers and those pressed for time.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- There are restrooms located in the Exit Glacier Nature Center.
- The 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) trail from the parking lot to the Glacier View area is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Exit Glacier is situated at the end of Exit Glacier Road (officially called Herman Leirer Road) about 13 miles (21 kilometers) outside Seward. Most visitors arrive by car or as part of a guided tour, but it’s also possible to catch a shuttle from Seward to the glacier during the summer months.
When to Get There
While Exit Glacier is open throughout the year, the road to the glacier becomes impassible to cars beginning in mid-November through early May. The road does, however, remain open to snowmobiles, fat bikes, snowshoes, and cross-country skis.
Ranger-Led Walks
From late May through early September, national park rangers lead Exit Glacier walks four times daily. These guided hikes take the trail from the Exit Glacier Nature Center to the Glacier Overlook, with interpretation along the way about glacial activity, geology, and local flora and fauna.
Address: Kenai Fjords National Park, AK, USA
From $ 157
Embassy Row
Colorful rowhouses, trees, and foreign embassies line Massachusetts Avenue near Dupont Circle in Washington DC. This area, dubbed “embassy row” for the sheer number of embassies, stretches between Scott Circle and Sheridan Circle. The area was once known as DC’s most elite zip codes because of the size and decadence of the residences. Today, many of the old mansions and residences have been converted into embassies.
There are more than 170 embassies in Washington DC with occasional events and festivals held at the various embassies, allowing the public an opportunity to experience various cultures and communities represented. Some of the larger embassies – such as the embassy of Indonesia – occupy buildings with over 40 rooms, while smaller embassies occupy former apartment buildings and other residences. The presence of embassies increases the allure of Dupont Circle, making it a popular destination for sightseeing in DC.
Practical Info
Embassy Row begins north of the White House and extends out toward the Naval Observatory (the Vice President’s residence).
Address: Massachusetts Ave., Washington DC, USA
From $ 10
El Dorado Wine Region
For over 150 years, this little wine-producing region of the California’s golden hillsides has produced numerous award-winning, critically acclaimed wines. Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, the El Dorado Wine Region is a prime wine-growing location thanks to its warm days, cool nights, and low alpine air. Home to over 50 wineries producing over 50 different varietals of wine, the El Dorado Wine Region is a popular escape to avoid the intense heat of the desert or the fog of the Bay Area while enjoying the charms of small-town California.
Practical Info
The El Dorado Wine Region is located about an hour and a half drive east of the Bay Area, serviced by Highway 50. Placerville is the main town of the region and most vacations start and end there.
Address: Placerville, Lake Tahoe, USA
From $ 75
Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site
The Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic site is a special place that serves as a window into former First Lady’s public and private life. The site is home to two cottages: Val-Kill Cottage and Stone Cottage. Vall-Kill is an L-shaped stucco building, reflecting the patchwork construction of its former life as a factory. Stone Cottage is a fieldstone building designed in the Dutch Colonial Revival style. On the first floor, the living room has with a ceiling open to the rafters and a massive fieldstone fireplace. There’s also a dining room, kitchen, den, bedroom, bath, and laundry. Upstairs are three more bedrooms and a bath. The “Dollhouse” is also on the grounds of the Historic Site, as Eleanor had it moved from its original location near the main house for her grandchildren to play with.
As First Lady, Eleanor was encouraged by her husband to develop this property about two miles from the “big house” at Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Hyde Park. At the large Vall-Kill Cottage she could develop her ideas, entertain whoever she wanted, stay up late reading, and spend time alone. After FDR’s death, Val-Kill became Eleanor’s permanent home and was declared a Historic Site in 1977. The only residence Eleanor personally owned, the unpretentious cottage is noted for its understated beauty and its natural setting.
Practical Info
The Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site is located on Route 9 in Hyde Park, NY about 90 miles north of New York City and 70 miles south of Albany. The National Park Service operates the free "Roosevelt Ride" shuttle service from Poughkeepsie Metro-North Station seven days a week, and will take you to your choice of the Roosevelt Sites and the Vanderbilt Mansion from May through October. From May to October, tours are offered throughout the day, with the last tour at 4pm. From November to April, the cottage is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Address: 106 Valkill Park Rd., Hyde Park, New York 12538, USA
Hours: Daily: sunrise–sunset
Admission: Varies
From $ 73
Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay is the jewel of Lake Tahoe’s natural sights—and not just because of its name. Its waters are a bright turquoise color, owing both to the clarity of the lake and the shallowness of the bay. Emerald Bay is also home to the lake’s only islet, Fannette Island. This scenic patch of land surrounded by water is what gives the bay its jewel-like shape and name. Visitors flock to the area in summer for boating, swimming, and hiking opportunities.
The Basics
You can view Emerald Bay from overlooks and hiking trails on land, by air on a helicopter tour, or by water on a Lake Tahoe cruise. All offer different perspectives to take in breathtaking views of the picturesque spot. Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to visit, so book sunset dinner cruises and sunset helicopter tours in advance. Other not-to-be-missed sights include Vikingsholm, a 38-room mansion that is one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States, and Eagle Falls, a beautiful waterfall accessible by short hike.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Emerald Bay is a must-visit for outdoorsy travelers.
- The M.S. Dixie II, a historic paddle-wheel boat, departs daily from Zephyr Cove and is wheelchair-accessible.
- Be sure to dress for the season, especially if heading out onto the water for a boat tour.
- The park is kid-friendly.
How to Get There
Lake Tahoe lies on the border of California and Nevada. Emerald Bay is on the California side of the lake, on the western edge of the south shore. To get to the park, take Highway 89 to the southwest shore of the lake. It is about a 4-hour drive from San Francisco, and eight hours from Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
When to Get There
Emerald Bay is stunning in all seasons. Summer is the best time to visit, as temperatures are fairly mild. In winter, however, temperatures often remain below freezing and access to hiking trails is limited. You can pick up trail maps from the Lake Tahoe Visitor Center in summer or from the park’s headquarters in South Lake Tahoe year-round.
Popular Lake Tahoe Activities Nearby
Many visitors come to beautiful Lake Tahoe for the scenery alone, but there’s plenty of outdoor adventure to be had as well. In the summer, hiking, biking, and water sports are widely available, while the winter opens world-class ski runs at the many nearby resorts. Photographers will appreciate the landscape photo opportunities, including the surrounding, often-snow-capped Sierra mountain range.
Address: 7360 West Lake Boulevard, Tahoma, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 50
Epcot Center
Epcot Center, part of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, is a theme park packed with internationally and futuristic-themed attractions, rides, pavilions, shows, and entertainment. Created from a concept developed by Walt Disney himself, Epcot is dedicated to human achievement, technological innovation, and international cultures.
The Basics
Epcot—an acronym for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow—moves at a slower pace than many other parts of the Magic Kingdom, with no roller coasters screeching overhead, no parades, no water rides, and plenty of greenery. Here you can smell the incense in Morocco, listen to the Beatles in the United Kingdom, eat sushi in Japan, and munch on an authentic pastry in France. Epcot Center is divided into two. The modern Future World, with its can’t-miss iconic geosphere known as Spaceship Earth, explores modern technologies through myriad rides and displays. The World Showcase allows visitors to tour the world in a day by dipping their toes into the cultures of 11 countries, including Mexico, Norway, China, France, Germany, and Italy.
Tours of Epcot from Orlando include those with a private guide, which allow insiders to get expert advice on the best ways to navigate the park, or helicopter tours that offer aerial views of the park and greater Orlando.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike other parts of the Magic Kingdom, most stores and restaurants in Epcot serve alcohol.
- Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is an award-winning light show that takes place every night at 9pm just before the park’s closing.
- Epcot is connected to the Magic Kingdom by the Disney World monorail system. To make the entire trip, transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center.
- Epcot is accessible to strollers, wheelchairs, and guests with mobility, hearing, and visual disabilities.
How to Get There
Epcot Center is easily accessed via Florida Interstate 4 (I-4). Pay for preferred parking (close to the entrance gate) or ride the tram from your spot to the gate. Orlando International Airport is 22 miles (35 kilometers) away, about a half-hour drive.
When to Get There
Epcot is open every day from 9am to 9pm. The holiday season and spring break bring huge crowds and long lines for rides and attractions. Throughout the year Epcot hosts a variety of festivals, including the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival; the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival; and Holidays Around the World, which showcases each pavilion’s traditional holiday celebrations.
Visiting Epcot with Small Kids
Although there is a distinct lack of animated characters prancing around Epcot, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing for small kids. Upon entry, pick up a guide map and entertainment schedule. Look for Kidcot stops, play and learning stations for the younger set. The Soarin’ ride is a winner, and Mission: SPACE is good for getting the adrenaline pumping after a string of educational exhibits. Additionally, three fountains in the park encourage splashing and playing; these are particularly great for kids too small for traditional water rides in other parks.
Address: 1375 N Buena Vista Drive, Orlando 32830, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 9pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
El Campo Santo Cemetery
El Campo Santo Cemetery in San Diego’s Old Town was used during the mid- to late-1800s. As San Diego grew, the old cemetery was reduced in size and many of the graves were paved over to build a streetcar line and roads. Since then, tales of car trouble, ghostly apparitions, and shadowy figures have been reported.
The Basics
Visit El Campo Santo Cemetery independently or as part of a San Diego sightseeing tour to learn about its haunted history. Some of California’s early pioneers and infamous figures, such as Yankee Jim Robinson, were laid to rest at this historic burial ground. Explore what remains of the cemetery and take a look at the sidewalk and street outside for grave markers. The most widely seen apparitions are those of people in period costume.
Things to Know Before You Go
- See the old cemetery as part of a San Diego tour.
- Visit with a guide to hear tales of spooky ghost sightings and odd paranormal occurrences.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach the cemetery, located in Old Town San Diego. Most visitors arrive as part of a guided tour or by public transportation—several bus routes and the Green Line trolley stop at the Old Town Transit Center, just a short walk away.
When to Get There
El Campo Santo Cemetery is open daily to visitors, and there isn’t really a bad time to visit. It’s worth noting that as the city grew, the cemetery was reduced in size and some of the graves now lie beneath San Diego Avenue and Linwood Street.
Haunted San Diego
While in the neighborhood, visit the historic Whaley House, located a couple of blocks away. Visited by ghost hunters from around the world, the Whaley House is San Diego’s most haunted attraction. It was built in 1857 on the site of the public execution of Yankee Jim Robinson, and some say his ghost has haunted the property and surrounding area ever since.
Address: 2410 San Diego Ave, San Diego, California 92110, USA
From $ 60
Ellis Island
New York City’s Ellis Island was America’s busiest immigrant inspection station for more than 60 years, from 1892 to 1954. As the gateway for over 12 million immigrants to the United States, it processed more than 50 percent of the nation’s current ancestors. Today the island’s restored main building houses the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, part of the adjacent Statue of Liberty National Monument. The museum honors the US’s immigrant heritage, chronicles the island’s role in immigration history, and gives voice to the immigrants themselves.
The Basics
The Ellis Island immigration station’s original wooden building burned in 1897. Following its restoration in the 1980s, the red-brick building was redone in the French Renaissance style and reopened as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. A 45-minute self-guided audio tour leads visitors through exhibits including photos, films, archive material, and recordings. Additional audio tour options describe exhibits in more detail via in-depth interviews with historians, architects, and archaeologists. Visitors can book a private tour of Ellis Island to maximize their experience and understanding of the sight, or a combo tour of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The 45-minute audio tour is available in nine languages and included in the cost of a ferry ticket.
- An audio tour for kids aged 6 to 10 is also available in five languages.
- Pro tip: Ellis Island can be seen up close, for free, from the deck of the Staten Island commuter ferry (though passengers can’t get off at Ellis Island).
- Ellis Island and ferries to it are fully accessible.
How to Get There
Ellis Island lies off the southwest tip of Manhattan. To visit Ellis Island from New York City, catch a Statue Cruises ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan. The first ferry stop is the Statue of Liberty, followed by Ellis Island. The closest subway stations to Battery Park are South Ferry (1 train), Whitehall Street (R train), or Bowling Green (4 or 5 train); the M5, M15, and M20 buses stop as South Ferry as well.
When to Get There
Weather permitting, Ellis Island is open every day of the year except December 25. Ferries run from 9:30am to 3:30pm, with later departures in the summer and around holidays. Once on the island, you can stay until the last ferry departs, which changes seasonally.
Portraits at the Museum
Ellis Island hosts a number of temporary exhibits. Past highlights include New Americans: Photographs by Jill Enfield, featuring 30 wet collodion photographic prints of contemporary immigrant portraits. There is also a small glass house of immigrant portraits made from antique windows that Ellis Island visitors can enter.
Address: Ellis Island, 10004, USA
Hours: Open every day except Dec 25. Visiting hours are dependent on ferry schedules.
Admission: Entrance is free, although visitors must purchase ferry tickets.
From $ 18
Ethel M Chocolates Factory
Part gourmet chocolate factory and part desert cactus garden, the home of Ethel M Chocolates offers a glimpse into the chocolate making process. From the larger scale production machines to the pecan brittle made by hand, it’s a chance to see how one of the world’s favorite sweet treats comes to be.
The Ethel M chocolates are special to the Mars family, inspired by their mother’s fresh and small-batch premium chocolates. There’s also a Tasting Room Experience with a bit of history about the chocolate company and a variety of their different chocolates to sample.
After you’ve had your fill of chocolate, you can opt to take a stroll in the four acre cactus garden. It’s one of the largest desert gardens in the world, grounded in naturalistic design. The variety of cacti and succulents comes from all over the world, including plants native to the Southwestern United States. They’re particularly beautiful when in bloom.
Practical Info
Located in Henderson, Nevada, the Ethel M Chocolates Factory is easily accessed from the Las Vegas Strip (about a 20 minute drive.) It’s located near Mountain Vista and Sunset Road. The self-guided viewing aisles are open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Due to the privacy of some practices, chocolatier sightings are not guaranteed. The cactus garden is free and open to the public.
Address: 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV, Henderson, Nevada 89014, USA
Hours: Mon-Thurs from 10 am - 4:30 pm (store open all week from 8:30 am - 6 pm)
From $ 57
Excalibur Hotel & Casino
Opened in 1990, this re-creation of a medieval castle with its matching interior was a popular draw in its heyday, especially for families. As bigger, brighter and fancier resorts have opened up and down Las Vegas Boulevard, Excalibur has lost a bit of its luster, but it has managed to stand the test of time for those who are time-honored fans or traveling with kids.
Though it’s a bit rough around the edges, the 100,000-square-foot casino offers several table games and more than 1,700 slot, video poker and video keno machines. Excalibur’s casino truly excels in catering to the new gambler by offering several lessons each day (excluding holidays): poker at 11:00 a.m., roulette at 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., blackjack at 11:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., and craps at noon and 8:00 p.m.
The resort’s race and sports book offers wagering on every major collegiate and professional sport including football, hockey, basketball, baseball, mixed martial arts, auto racing, golf and tennis.
If traveling with small children, no visit to Excalibur is complete without a stop in the Fun Dungeon, which has a large variety of carnival midways, prize redemption games, sports games and arcade games. The Tournament of Kings is an interactive dinner show that includes lots of medieval action such as jousting and fireworks.
Though it’s a bit rough around the edges, the 100,000-square-foot casino offers several table games and more than 1,700 slot, video poker and video keno machines. Excalibur’s casino truly excels in catering to the new gambler by offering several lessons each day (excluding holidays): poker at 11:00 a.m., roulette at 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., blackjack at 11:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., and craps at noon and 8:00 p.m.
The resort’s race and sports book offers wagering on every major collegiate and professional sport including football, hockey, basketball, baseball, mixed martial arts, auto racing, golf and tennis.
If traveling with small children, no visit to Excalibur is complete without a stop in the Fun Dungeon, which has a large variety of carnival midways, prize redemption games, sports games and arcade games. The Tournament of Kings is an interactive dinner show that includes lots of medieval action such as jousting and fireworks.
Address: 3850 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
From $ 54
Entergy IMAX Theatre
The Entergy IMAX Theatre, located within the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, gives visitors the chance to get even more acquainted with marine life on a massive screen. Learn about the local aquatic life of southern Louisiana, or take a visual journey across the world’s oceans.
Featured films include the Audubon Society’s award-winning Hurricane on the Bayou, which combines the music of New Orleans with an overview of the destruction left on the landscape and natural wetlands of Southern Louisiana by Hurricane Katrina. The theater also plays feature films about animal life on land, featuring the unique wildlife and landscapes of Kenya and Madagascar. At over five stories tall, this IMAX is the largest theater in the Gulf south area and makes nature documentaries a sensory experience.
Practical Info
The theater is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; shows begin every hour on the hour. Admission is $10.50 for adults (13-64), $8 for children (2-12) and $9.50 for seniors (65+.) Tickets may be purchased in advance and used the day of the visit.
Address: 1 Canal St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70130, USA
Hours: Tues-Sun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: 10.50 for adults (13-64), $8 for children (2-12) and $9.50 for seniors (65+.)
From $ 24
EMP Museum
If Seattle takes credit for the birth of the grunge movement and thus leading garage bands into what is now all-star rock fame, then it only serves as fair that the museum dedicated to all things rock and roll be located in Seattle’s boundaries. For a city that loves music, the Experience Music Project was a foregone conclusion. Attached to and now incorporated with the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, a trip to the EMP Museum offers more than an introspective into passing memorabilia – it’s a look at the outreaches of our collective imagination made manifest by rock gods and science fiction greats. Designed by wildly famous architect Frank Gehry and funded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the surreal jellyfish-like structure is as much a part of the interest in the museum as the exhibits themselves.
Practical Info:
The EMP Museum is located at 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, in the Seattle Center, next to the Seattle Space Needle. The museum is open from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. every day of the week. Tickets to the EMP Museum are $20 at the door, $15 online. (https://estore.empmuseum.org/store/index.asp)
Address: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
Hours: Every day 10am - 5pm
Admission: $20 at the door, $15 online
From $ 75
Elliott Bay
Many know Seattle to be located upon the Puget Sound, but the specific body of water upon which Seattle sits is none other than the great Elliot Bay. And because Elliot Bay is the most prevalent source of water when visiting Seattle, it is part-and-parcel to the inner fabric of the “city by the sound.” From the original Duwamish peoples that lived here, to the locals that come enjoy the Elliot Bay Park along the waterfront, Elliot Bay is part of the culture, and it’s here that many visitors come to explore Seattle.
With two marinas, numerous piers (including Pier 57 and Pier 59, both popular attractions), the Seattle Great Wheel, and the Seattle Aquarium, Elliot Bay provides many things to many people. Not the least of which is the great port of Seattle – one of America’s biggest and most important ports. Ferries also take commuters and tourists across the Bay to Bainbridge or Vashon Island.
With two marinas, numerous piers (including Pier 57 and Pier 59, both popular attractions), the Seattle Great Wheel, and the Seattle Aquarium, Elliot Bay provides many things to many people. Not the least of which is the great port of Seattle – one of America’s biggest and most important ports. Ferries also take commuters and tourists across the Bay to Bainbridge or Vashon Island.
Practical Info
If you want to see Elliot Bay for yourself, head on down to Pier 57, Pier 59, 52 (where most ferries depart) or take in the view from one of the many parks along the water, like the Olympic Sculpture park.
Address: Seattle, WA, USA
From $ 70
Empire State Building
The world's tallest building from 1931 to 1977, the Empire State Building is topped with a stepped Art Deco pinnacle that's floodlit at night and boasts holiday and commemorative colors throughout the year. After admiring the mosaics in the Art Deco lobby, take an elevator ride to the 86th or 102nd floor and get ready to drink in astounding 360-degree views from this iconic skyscraper observatory.
The Basics
Set in Midtown Manhattan, the 102-story skyscraper is a must for any first-time visitor to New York City. While it’s easy to catch a glimpse of the tower around the city, this attraction is best enjoyed from one of its two observation decks, where the panoramic views over the Big Apple are legendary. Tickets to one or both of the observation decks can be purchased solo, although the Empire State Building is also visited on many city sightseeing tours, which often also include stops at Times Square and the Statue of Liberty. If you plan to visit on your own during peak times, it’s a good idea to buy an Express Pass to skip the line all the way to the 86th floor.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Choose a general admission ticket for standard entrance or a VIP Express Pass to skip the lines.
- The Empire State Building is fully ADA compliant and stroller accessible. Handicapped restrooms are located on the 86th floor.
- Glass bottles, cans, and tripods are prohibited.
- Lines for the elevator can get long, particularly during peak hours. Be sure to use the restrooms on the second floor before getting in line.
- STATE Grill and Bar is the building’s street-level, signature restaurant. You’ll also find five other dining options, plus Starbucks.
How to Get to the Empire State Building
The entrance to the Empire State Building is located on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th streets. It’s easy to arrive on foot from many other popular Midtown attractions, or by taking the subway to Penn Station/34th Street or 34th Street/Herald Square. The building is also a stop on hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus tours.
When to Get There
Since the Empire State Building is one of New York’s most popular attractions, it’s best visited in the morning just after opening or late at night (the decks are open until 2am) when the lines are shortest. Expect longer lines for tickets, security, and the elevators on weekends, holidays, and just before sunset.
Which Floor Should I Visit?
The “Dare to Dream” exhibit, chronicling the story of the building’s construction and legacy, is located on the 80th floor before the elevator to the 86th-floor observatory. The 86th-floor observatory, known as the Main Deck, is the highest open-air observatory in New York. Its wraparound deck is outfitted with high-power binoculars, making it possible to see Central Park, the Hudson River, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty from above. From the indoor Top Deck on the 102nd floor, visitors enjoy even more views (like Central Park in its entirety) and the chance to ride a manually operated Otis elevator.
Address: 350 Fifth Avenue, New York City, New York 10118, USA
Hours: Daily 8am–2pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Nestled among towering palm trees on Key West, the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum allows you to see where one of the United States’ most famous writers and greatest thinkers lived and worked. The Hemingway Home is a National Historic Landmark and Literary Landmark, and recorded at the Library of Congress as an Historic American Building.
The Basics
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, in the building where Hemingway lived from 1931 to 1939, offers an intimate glimpse into the Nobel Prize winner’s life. Walk along the narrow pathway through the luscious gardens overflowing with tropical plants, or check out the round wooden desk where one of Key West’s most famous residents typed out some of his famous works on an old typewriter.
Key West’s hop-on hop-off trolley tours are a popular way to explore the island, and most stop at the Hemingway Home. To visit the museum on your own, simply purchase tickets at the front entrance (cash only); reservations are not required. If you’re not staying in the Keys, a number of full-day tours from Miami include stops at this location and other island highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Hemingway Home & Museum is a must for literary buffs visiting Key West.
- The on-site bookstore sells all of Hemingway’s books, as well as other works related to Key West and the Florida Keys.
- Check the museum’s website for the local cruise ship schedule, which could save you from waiting in line with the throngs of newly arrived passengers.
- The museum’s gardens and lower level of the house are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is located on Whitehead Street, near the southernmost point of Key West, less than a 10-minute drive from the airport. It is right across the street from the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum, another popular Key West attraction.
When to Get There
The Ernest Hemingway house is open from 9am to 5pm every day of the year, including holidays. The Florida Keys are a popular winter and spring destination due to pleasant temperatures; you’ll find the local attractions to be most crowded during this time. Summers can be sweltering and humid, and fall is hurricane season.
In and Around Key West
The Hemingway Home, famous for the horde of cats that roam the grounds (some are said to be descendants of Hemingway’s own six-toed cat), is not far from Key West’s other highlights, including the historic Old Town, bustling Duval Street, the Key West White House, and Mallory Square, a popular place to watch the sunset. Exploring Key West is very easy on foot, and most attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.
Address: 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, USA
Hours: Open daily year-round from 9am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: US$14 Children: US$6
From $ 62
Everglades Holiday Park
Everglades Holiday Park is a classic—if a bit kitschy—introduction to the Florida Everglades and its wild inhabitants. Geared toward the whole family and nicknamed the "Gateway to the Everglades," the 29-acre park has been entertaining and educating visitors for more than 30 years. Most famous for its guided airboat rides, Everglades Holiday Park is also the home to Animal Planet’s Gator Boys show.
On an airboat tour, see where Florida gators make their home and learn why it's so important to protect these areas. An experienced guide will point out some of the region's unique features, including wild birds, snakes, and other flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else in the United States.
As a working park and rescue operation, Everglades Holiday Park believes the best way to raise awareness about the importance of conserving natural wetlands is by allowing its visitors access to some of its best-known inhabitants. All the alligators featured at Everglades Holiday Park are natural inhabitants of the Everglades, or rescue animals, and their health and wellbeing is taken very seriously.
Practical Info
Everglades Holiday Park is located at the western end of Griffin Road, off U.S. 27. Admission includes an airboat tour, a gator show, and a group photo. While Viator does not sell these activities, animal encounters are available for purchase at the park for an additional cost of $99. Airboat tours operate daily, departing every 20 minutes during the park's opening hours. Children 3 years of age and younger enter free.
Address: 21940 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33332, USA
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm
Admission: Adults $30.99; children (3–11) $18.99
From $ 33