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John F Kennedy Hyannis Museum
The JFK Museum in Hyannis offers a fascinating insight into the life of America’s 35th president. Dedicated to preserving the legacy of John F. Kennedy, who spent many summers on Cape Cod, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Kennedy: the man and the president.
The Basics
The Kennedy family has owned a summer compound in Hyannis Port since the 1920s. JFK spent a lot of time in and around town, so it’s fitting that a museum devoted to the former president is located here. The facility brings together personal artifacts, candid family photographs, oral histories from friends, and detailed panels exploring Kennedy’s rise to success, untimely death, and connection to Cape Cod.
Hyannis’ former town hall houses the museum, which is marked with a bronze statue of Kennedy by David Lewis . Many people combine a trip to Cape Cod and its charming towns with a visit to Boston and its many attractions, such as Fenway Park and the New England Aquarium. Multi-attraction sightseeing cards allow discounted entry into many area monuments, attractions, and museums (including the JFK Museum).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entrance to the museum is via paid ticket.
- Discounts are available for students, seniors, and youths. Children under 5 go free.
- Active military can visit for free with up to five guests, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Private tours can be arranged outside of the usual opening hours.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- Free parking is available on-site.
How to Get There
The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is at 397 Main Street in Hyannis Port, Cape Cod, Massachusetts. If driving from Boston and points north, take Route 3 across the Sagamore Bridge and then follow Route 6 and local roads to Hyannis Port. Bus services run to Hyannis Port from New York, Providence, and Boston, while local routes connect Hyannis with nearby towns.
When to Get There
The museum is open seasonally from mid-April to late November. Core opening hours are 10am–4pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm–4pm on Sundays. Hours are extended slightly in spring and summer. The ticket desk closes 45 minutes before the museum shuts.
Cape Cod Melody Tent Show
One of only two continuously operated tent theaters in the US, the Cape Cod Melody Tent has been delighting audiences since 1951. With a capacity of 2,300 people, every seat is within 50 feet (15 meters) of the rotating stage, guaranteeing a great view of the show. The theater hosts music and comedy performers, and theatrical shows.
Address: 397 Main St, Hyannis, Massachusetts 02601, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
John Hancock Tower
Boston's John Hancock Tower soars nearly 800 feet above the city, and is not only Boston's tallest building but also the tallest building in all of New England.
The 62-story John Hancock Tower was built in 1976 as the home of John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance, but in 2004 the company moved to a different Boston location. The building is now officially known as Hancock Place.
It's a glass-covered skyscraper in the shape of a parallelogram rather than a square or rectangle, and the blue-tinted glass panels beautifully reflect the city and scenery around the tower. There is an observatory deck at the top of the John Hancock tower, but it has been closed to the general public since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The observation deck is available for private events, however.
Practical Info
The John Hancock Tower is in Boston's Back Bay neighborhood. It is entirely used for offices and business space.
Address: 200 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 35
Jefferson Memorial
Set on the south bank of the Tidal Basin amid the cherry trees, the Jefferson Memorial honors the third president of the United States, drafter of the Declaration of Independence and founder of the University of Virginia: Thomas Jefferson. Designed by John Russell Pope to resemble Jefferson's library, the memorial's columned rotunda is similar in style to the Pantheon in Rome.
On the Tidal Basin side, a sculptural group above the entrance depicts Jefferson with Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman and Robert Livingston, all of whom worked to draft the Declaration of Independence. Inside, travelers will find a 19-foot (6-meter) bronze likeness of Jefferson, along with excerpts from his writings etched into the walls. Visit in late March or early April to see the cherry blooms outside in shades of pink.
Practical Info
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial sits on the south shore of the Tidal Basin, in East Potomac Park, just south of the National Mall. The memorial is accessible by metro. Nearby are the Smithsonian museums and the Lincoln Memorial. Allow 20 to 30 minutes for a visit.
Address: 900 Ohio Drive SW, National Mall, Washington D.C. 20024, USA
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 14
Johnston Ridge Observatory
There are a few viewpoints along the road leading from highway I-5 to Mount St. Helens, but the best (and closest to the volcano) is the Johnston Ridge Observatory.
The Johnston Ridge Observatory is at the end of State Route 504, and the visitor center overlooks not only the yawning crater of Mount St. Helens but also a huge swath of the blast zone. Exhibits walk visitors through what happened on the morning of May 18, 1980, as well as the scientific history that led up to that enormous eruption. There are trails that begin at the Observatory for day hikes, including a half-mile trail that offers great views into the crater.
Johnston Ridge is named for the volcanologist David Johnston, who was surveying changes in Mount St. Helens in May of 1980 when it finally erupted. He was never found.
Practical Info
Because of the elevation of Johnston Ridge, the Observatory is not open year-round. It typically opens in mid-May and stays open until late October, operating from 10am-6pm daily during that season. Inclement weather can alter the opening and closing dates, so find out if it's open before you set off.
Address: State Route 504, Toutle, Washington, USA
From $ 263
John F. Kennedy Memorial
Simple but profoundly moving, the John F. Kennedy Memorial in Dallas comprises a granite slab bearing the assassinated president’s name etched in gold. The slab is surrounded by soaring concrete walls that appear to be free-floating, capturing the feeling of loss felt around the world following Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963.
The Basics
As a prominent city landmark, the John F. Kennedy Memorial is included in many Dallas sightseeing tours. Those with a particular interest in the JFK assassination can opt for a themed tour that includes visits to Dealey Plaza, where the president was killed; the memorial; Grassy Knoll; the home of assassin Lee Harvey Oswald; the historic Texas Movie Theater in Oak Cliff; and the Sixth Floor Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The JFK Memorial is a must-see for first-time visitors and JFK history buffs.
- Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
- The JFK Memorial Plaza is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The JFK Memorial is situated in downtown Dallas, a block away from Dealey Plaza in John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza. Union Station and West End Station are close by.
When to Get There
To fully appreciate the memorial and its symbolism, plan to visit after a trip to the nearby Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Don’t miss seeing the memorial at night, when light fixtures in the ground create the illusion that the light itself is supporting the cenotaph.
The Man Behind the Memorial
American architect Philip Johnson was chosen to design the memorial, and he opted for an open tomb design to symbolize the freedom of JFK’s spirit. The walls of the roofless room were built from 72 white concrete columns that seemingly float 29 inches (74 centimeters) above the ground. This invisible force that seems to hold the memorial together was inspired by the magnetic charisma of John F. Kennedy.
Address: John F Kennedy Memorial Plaza, Dallas TX 75202, USA
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is comprised of six sites, offering everything from outdoor activities to history lessons and boat tours. The Acadian Cultural Center in Lafayette teaches the history of the Acadian or Cajun people who settled southeast Louisiana, while the Barataria Preserve in Marrero is a 23,000-acre wetland. The visitor center includes exhibits, dioramas and hands-on displays.
Head to the Chalmette Battlefield to visit the site of the War of 1812’s Battle of New Orleans. The Chalmette National Cemetery is also nearby. Meanwhile, the French Quarter Visitor Center is conveniently located on Decatur Street in New Orleans, and in Eunice, the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center offers music, stories, dancing and craft demonstrations.
Learning about Louisiana’s bayou country includes boat tours, history walks and sessions with local musicians at the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux.
Practical Info
Admission to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and most programs and events are free. Most of the sites are closed on federal holidays and Mardi Gras.
Address: 6588 Barataria Blvd, Marrero, Louisiana 70072, USA
From $ 29
John Harvard Statue
Historians aren’t exactly sure what the founder of Harvard University looked like, so artist Daniel Chester French used one of his descendants as inspiration for this iconic statue. Although few locals can agree on whether he was solely responsible for the creation of the university, they can all agree that his image is among the most recognized in the city of Cambridge, even today.
The bronze statue, which sits at the center of Harvard Yard, is a frequently visited site for both travelers and prospective students, but it’s also been the target of dozens of pranks since its unveiling. Whether it’s covered in tar, paint or some other substance, John Harvard remains at the heart of this school.
Practical Info
The statue is located in Harvard Yard and was created in 1883. Tourists have been known to rub the left toe of the statue for good luck.
Address: Harvard Yard, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA
From $ 12
Japanese Tea Garden
Tucked away in a Texas city known for its vibrant Mexican-American culture, San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden offers a refreshing, peaceful space that gives visitors a glimpse into another cultural treasure. The gardens, large pagoda, koi pond, and 60-foot (18-meter) waterfall make for impressive photo backdrops for locals and visitors alike.
The Basics
A stand-alone visit to the Japanese Tea Garden is free, but it is also a feature on several local tour itineraries, including some with stops at other must-see local cultural and historical attractions, such as the Alamo and the River Walk. The Japanese garden is a lovely addition to these tours, which take care of all the transportation and give you time to relax a little in the inviting space.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Japanese Tea Garden is a must-see for botanical garden enthusiasts, Japanophiles, families—kids especially enjoy checking out the koi in the fish pond—and those looking for a serene oasis in San Antonio.
- The garden is small and not much walking is required, so you can visit easily and at your own pace.
- An on-site café, the Jingu House, is perfect for a light snack or drink.
- The Pavilion, gardens, and café are all accessible to wheelchair users and strollers, but the waterfall platform area is not.
How to Get There
The garden is located on Alpine Street in the northern part of San Antonio, near Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Zoo. You can get there off the McAllister Freeway (US 281), and there is a B-cycle (bike share) station nearby.
When to Get There
The Japanese Tea Garden is open sunrise to sunset every day of the year. The summer months (from about May to September) can be quite hot, so if you go to San Antonio during this time, it’s recommended to visit the garden early in the morning or later in the evening to escape the hours of peak heat.
Tranquility from a Rock Quarry
San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden was formerly a rock quarry. In 1918 prisoners constructed the space—which included stone bridges and walking paths, a Japanese pagoda, and lily ponds—for a cost of $7,000. At one point, the city invited a local Japanese-American artist to live on site. After his death, his family was evicted due to anti-Japanese sentiment during World War II. In the 1960s, it was called the Chinese Sunken Garden before being rededicated in 1984 as the Japanese Tea Garden.
Address: 3875 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, Texas, USA 78212, USA
From $ 55
Japantown
San Francisco’s Japantown, a microhood of the Western Addition neighborhood, is the oldest Japantown in the US and one of just a few left. It’s home to restaurants serving sushi, ramen, and other fare, a shopping center, a Japanese supermarket, and the 5-tier Peace Pagoda.
The Basics
Japantown is bordered by Fillmore Street, Sutter Street, Laguna Street, and Geary Boulevard, with the main drag of Post Street running through the middle. Located just south of Pacific Heights, it’s easy to visit if you’re doing some shopping or dining along Fillmore Street. Alternatively, book a private city tour or a Japanese food tour to explore with a guide.
Wandering on foot is the best way to experience the neighborhood—check out Peace Pagoda in Peace Plaza, pick up a Bento box at Nijiya Market, browse the shops at Japan Center, or catch a movie at AMC Kabuki 8. For a more relaxing treat, head to Kabuki Springs and Spa, an urban oasis where you can get a massage or enjoy a soak in the Japanese-style communal baths.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a lot of metered and free street parking available around Japantown, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during street cleaning or other times.
- Japan Center has a parking garage.
- If you plan to visit Kabuki Springs and Spa, make sure to check the schedule for the communal baths, as some days are male- or female-only.
How to Get There
If you’re not driving, Japantown is easily reached by cab or ride-booking service, or take Muni buses 2, 3, 22, or 38.
When to Get There
Most shops and eateries open in the late morning; early evening is a good time to take in the neighborhood vibe. The Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the city’s top events and takes place in April. The J-Pop Summit and Japan Film Festival of San Francisco are other annual events that draw crowds.
Fillmore Street
From Japantown, Fillmore Street runs north through Pacific Heights to the Marina District. The blocks between Post and Jackson are home to stylish boutiques and upscale cafes, and locals gather there on evenings and weekends for shopping, dining, and coffee dates.
Address: Japantown, San Francisco, California, USA
From $ 5
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Once the world’s largest indoor aquariums, Chicago’s John G. Shedd Aquarium is home to more than 1,500 species of fish, marine mammals, birds, snakes, and amphibians. The aquarium sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and is part of Chicago’s famous Museum Campus, which includes the Field Museum and Adler Planetarium.
The Basics
The first inland aquarium to include permanent saltwater exhibits along with freshwater exhibits, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chicago. Permanent exhibits include the multilevel Oceanarium, which mimics ocean conditions off the northwest coast of North America; the Wild Reef exhibit, which simulates a Philippines reef ecosystem; and the Amazon Rising exhibit, which introduces visitors to the Amazon River and rainforest. Make the aquarium a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour or visit after taking a Segway tour of the Museum Campus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long entry lines, which can sometimes take up to two hours.
- Entry lines can sometimes stretch outside, so dress appropriately in case of inclement weather.
- Allow two to three hours for your visit.
- The Shedd Aquarium is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
How to Get There
The Shedd Aquarium is located on the Museum Campus in the South Loop, just off Lakeshore Drive and a short walk from downtown. It is accessible by several bus lines, and the nearest El stop is Roosevelt.
When to Get There
The Shedd Aquarium is open year-round and can be particularly busy on the weekends and school holidays. Arrive early to beat the crowds, or look for special evening events when you can experience the aquarium after dark.
Special Experiences at the Shedd Aquarium
Make your visit to the Shedd Aquarium truly unique by participating in one of the many special experiences available. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Wild Reef and experience a shark feeding, get up close and personal with penguins or beluga whales, or visit the animal healthcare center and watch the animals’ meals be prepared. For an even more in-depth experience, spend four hours learning what it’s like to be a marine mammal trainer at the aquarium.
Address: 1200 Lake Shore Drive, South Loop, Chicago 60605, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm (until 6pm on weekends). Hours change quarterly.
Admission: Varies
From $ 37
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park lies at the crux of the Colorado and Mojave deserts and spans 429,690 acres (173,889 hectares) of wind-swept Southern California plains. Famous for its starlit night skies and surreal geological features, the park’s rich landscape and signature flora draws day-trippers, rock climbers, and backpackers alike.
The Basics
Whether you want to visit on a day trip from Palm Springs or take a multi-day hiking tour, Joshua Tree is a perfect wilderness escape. Hiking and mountain biking trails abound in the park; visitors can stroll through Hidden Valley, bike down old country roads, or get completely off the grid on a customized hiking tour. Rock-climbing enthusiasts can perfect their solo climbing skills with a top-rope anchors class or take a beginners rappelling course, while photographers can snap photos of bighorn sheep, birds, and black-tailed jackrabbits.
Those wishing to cover more ground can venture deep into the desert on a van tour or luxury Hummer day trip and see highlights such as the inselberg rock formations, San Andreas Fault, and Keys View atop Ryan Mountain—the highest point in the park at 5,500 feet (1676 meters) above sea level.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
- Desert weather can change swiftly and dramatically; always check the forecast before heading out.
- There are four visitor centers in the park, each equipped with water, restrooms, and picnic areas.
- Pets must be leashed at all times and are not permitted on backcountry trails.
- Very few areas in the park have cellphone coverage.
- Some trails and campgrounds are wheelchair accessible; see the National Parks Service website for more details.
How to Get There
Joshua Tree National Park is located roughly 140 miles (225 kilometers) east of Los Angeles. The nearest airport is in Palm Springs, roughly one hour by road from the park’s south entrance. The best way to get to Joshua Tree is by road; you can approach the park from Interstate 10 or California Highway 62. Be careful not to rely on GPS directions, which can route you onto potentially impassable backcountry roads.
When to Get There
Peak season in Joshua Tree runs from October through May, with most visitors arriving in the spring and fall. Summers are hot here, with temperatures above 100°F (38°C). In the spring, wildflowers bloom and speckle the desert with bright red, purple, and orange hues.
Attractions Near Joshua Tree
The towns of Palm Springs and Palm Desert are good jumping-off points for excursions into Joshua Tree National Park. Coachella Valley Preserve, located near the Palm Springs area, is a popular destination for picnicking and hiking, as well as a hub for wind farming and agriculture. Mojave National Preserve, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Cabrillo National Monument are also within driving distance of the park.
Address: USA
Admission: $15 per vehicle, $5 per individual
From $ 75
Jenny Lake Trail
A highlight of Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, the Jenny Lake area is characterized by thundering waterfalls, canyons, mountain vistas, and the crystalline expanse of Jenny Lake itself. The lake trail runs 7.1 miles (11.4 kilometers) around the water’s edge and passes by Hidden Falls, Cascade Canyon, and Inspiration Point.
The Basics
Most tours of Grand Teton National Park include at least a portion of the Jenny Lake Trail, whether you opt to explore on a full-day, morning, or sunset excursion. Day trips to Grand Teton typically leave from the towns of Jackson Hole or Jackson and allow you to see Jenny Lake along with park highlights, such as Oxbow Bend and Jackson Lake.
Most tours include a meal and round-trip transportation. To explore Grand Teton National Park at your own pace, opt for a self-guided tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Jenny Lake Trail is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Wear shoes suitable for hiking, dress in layers, and bring sun protection.
- The area is home to both grizzly and black bears, so be sure to make noise when out on the trail and leave no trace of food or trash behind.
- A shuttle boat crosses the lake from the visitor center to a dock on the lake’s western shore, which allows you to see Hidden Falls after just 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) of hiking.
How to Get There
Jenny Lake sits at the base of the Tetons at an elevation of 6,800 feet (2,073 meters) from the town of Jackson. You can visit via private vehicle or opt for a guided tour to avoid the hassle of parking.
When to Get There
Summer, when the weather is typically warm and sunny, is the most popular time to visit. Parking at South Jenny Lake can fill up quickly, so arrive early in the morning to score a spot. The area is accessible by car from May through October.
Jenny Lake Trail Options
The most popular variation of the Jenny Lake Trail starts with a shuttle boat ride across the lake from the visitor center to a dock on the western shore. From here, a moderately steep, 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) hike leads to thundering Hidden Falls, before continuing up Cascade Canyon toward aptly named Inspiration Point. While the trail connects with overnight trails, day hikers most often turn back and return via the southwestern shoreline.
Address: South Jenny Lake Junction, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA
From $ 139
Japanese Friendship Garden
Somewhat of a park inside of a park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a sanctuary of calm inside busy Balboa Park. Symbolic of the friendship between San Diego and the Japanese city of Yokohama, this 20-acre garden has over 200 cherry trees that dot the manicured landscape. In keeping with the tradition of Japanese gardens, the landscape here is methodically arranged so the stones, water, trees, and plants have a natural and calming energy. It’s a place for serene, inward reflection, and also a place where visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture. Stop for a drink at the tea museum and gaze out over the ponds, or wander through gardens that are meticulously planted in traditional Japanese herbs. On weekends, there can be classes in everything from Japanese language to the art of fine calligraphy, as well as a festival for the cherry blossom bloom that takes place every March.
Practical Info
The Japanese Friendship Garden is open from 10am-4:30pm, with the last admission at 3:30pm. Admission to the garden is $6 for adults, $5 for students, and the garden is located off of President’s Way inside of Balboa Park.
Address: 2215 Pan American Road East, San Diego, California, USA
Hours: Open from 10am-4:30pm
Admission: Adults: $6
From $ 48
Jenner
One of the advantages of a trip to Sonoma County wine country is that visitors can easily escape to the Pacific Coast. Charming and quiet Jenner is a great spot to set your sights on the water.
Jenner is where the Russian River empties into the Pacific Ocean. It’s a place that doesn’t know much about the day to day hustle and bustle that exists in busier spots not so far away. There’s a handful of inns and restaurants, but the attention in Jenner is really on what happens at the river’s mouth.
Many folks enjoy doing nothing more than taking in the view. If you want to be a little more active, rent a kayak and paddle around the estuary. The mouth of the river is a home and birthing spot for seals, and during pupping season you could have seals swimming next to your kayak.
Practical Info
Jenner is about a 90-minute drive from San Francisco, located on Highway 1 north of Bodega Bay. Beach access is at Goat Rock Road, south of town. If your car is getting low on gas, be sure to fill up at the station in Jenner. Depending on where you are headed, it might be the last gas station you see for a while.
Address: Jenner, USA
From $ 20
Joseph Manigault House
This historic Charleston home, now part of the Charleston Museum, is a well-preserved example of Federal architecture. Built in 1803 by architect Gabriel Manigault for his brother Joseph, a Charleston rice baron, the 3-story townhouse is now a National Historic Landmark, showcasing the wealthy family’s 19th-century lifestyle.
The Basics
An impressive central hall, with its spiral staircase leading to the upper floors, greets visitors entering the Joseph Manigault House. Many of the rooms have been restored to what they might have looked like in the 19th century, complete with original color schemes and a collection of French, American, and English period furniture. Entrance to the house also includes access to a period garden and several historical outbuildings, such as stables, kitchen, and former slave quarters.
Choose between a single admission to the Joseph Manigault House or a combination ticket that includes the Heyward-Washington House or the Charleston Museum as well. Some bus tours also include an optional upgrade that includes a visit to the house.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Joseph Manigault House is a must-see for history buffs and those interested in antebellum architecture.
- Flash photography and the use of cell phones are not allowed within the historic house.
- The house is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The house is located on Meeting Street between John Street and Ashmead Place, one block south of the Charleston Museum. It’s easy to reach on foot from most areas of the city’s historic district.
When to Get There
The historic home is open daily throughout the year, with shorter hours on Sundays. Tours of the house are offered every 30 minutes, with the last tour departing a half-hour before closing time.
Heyward-Washington House
In addition to the Joseph Manigault House, the Charleston Museum also manages the Heyward-Washington House. This Georgian-style double house, built in 1772, was once the home of Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors can tour the mansion, formal gardens, and a kitchen building from the 1740s.
Address: 350 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Johnny Cash Museum
Despite its small size, the Johnny Cash Museum manages to hold one of the world’s largest collections of Johnny Cash artifacts. Bill Miller, one of Cash’s closest friends, gathered and cataloged the country music superstar’s memorabilia for decades, resulting in this popular Nashville attraction and Cash-fan pilgrimage site.
The Basics
Visitors to the Johnny Cash Museum can wander through halls lined with memories and artifacts spanning the singer’s life, from his upbringing in Arkansas through his impressive career—including his launch with Sun Records, performance highlights (such as his famous appearance at Folsom Prison), and television cameos. But what makes this museum truly special are the personal effects that only a close friend could collect—childhood report cards, military uniforms, and handwritten love letters to Cash’s wives, including June Carter. The Cash Museum features interactive exhibits, an extensive gift shop, films, and a café serving light fare.
Downtown Nashville tours, including the popular Nashville trolley tours, often include the Johnny Cash Museum as one of their stops, along with other music-related attractions such as the Ryman Auditorium, the Patsy Cline Museum, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This museum is a must-see for Johnny Cash fans and music lovers visiting Nashville.
- There is no dedicated parking lot, but limited street parking is available on the neighboring city blocks.
- The Johnny Cash Museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The museum is located in downtown Nashville, within easy walking distance of many other attractions. Nearby is the 4th Ave N & Broadway Ave SB bus station, accessible by bus numbers 15, 18, 27, 33, 34, 38, and 61.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 9am until 6pm daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Johnny Cash’s Music
Known for his deep bass-baritone voice, Cash is one of the best-selling singer/songwriters of all time. Primarily known for country music, he spanned many genres, and actually had inductions into the Country Music, Rock and Roll, and Gospel Music Halls of Fame.
Address: 119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN, USA
Hours: Daily 9am - 6pm
Admission: Adults: $19.95 Youth: $15.95
From $ 39
Joseph Smith Memorial Building
Housed in what was originally the Hotel Utah, the Joseph Smith Memorial Building — named in honor the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement — opened in 1993 after 76 years as a hotel internationally recognized for its elegance. The original Hotel Utah first opened in 1911, and before its closing in 1987 it hosted U.S. presidents, lawmakers, LDS Conference Attendees and many famous celebrities.
The building is located on the corner of Main Street and South Temple in Salt Lake City. Its large, ornately decorated multi-story lobby features a large white statue of Joseph Smith Jr. and an enormous crystal chandelier. The complex also contains a FamilySearch center (where the public can do family history and genealogy research), three restaurants, 13 banquet rooms, catering services, a full-service floral department and the Legacy Theater, which has regularly scheduled free showings of church-produced films.
Address: 15 E South Temple, Salt Lake City 84150, USA
Hours: Open Monday - Friday from 9am to 5:30pm
From $ 79
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
One of three main airports in the New York City area (the others being Newark and LaGuardia), John F. Kennedy International Airport, or JFK, is one of the most frequented transportation hubs on the east coast. It has six terminals (1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8) and is the operations base for JetBlue and an international hub for Delta and American airlines.
The Basics
New York City traffic is nothing to joke about, so avoid the stress of navigating your own way to and from the airport by booking an airport transfer. Shared transfers by van offer pickup and drop-off at Manhattan hotels, while a private transfer by sedan or SUV provides a more luxurious and flexible experience with Brooklyn service options as well. It’s possible to book a skip-the-line airport transfer to avoid having to wait at the curb for your ride. For VIP transportation, there’s even a helicopter transfer from the airport to Lower Manhattan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Terminal 1 is international with airlines such as Air France, Cayman Airways, and Korean Air, while terminal 2 is Delta domestic.
- Terminal 4 is international with Asiana, Caribbean, Emirates, Delta, Singapore, SWISS, and Virgin Atlantic airlines. Terminal 5 is home to Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, and a few international airlines.
- Terminal 7 houses British Airways, Qantas, Qatar Airways, and other international airlines, while terminal 8 includes Alaska, American, and Cathay Pacific airlines.
- Travelers can take the AirTrain to the Federal Circle Station to pick up rental cars.
How to Get There
JFK Airport is is located in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, 16 miles (26 kilometers) from Midtown Manhattan and 11 miles (18 kilometers) from Park Slope in Brooklyn. Book a roundtrip transfer to get between the airport and areas in New York City such as Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Alternatively, JFK’s AirTrain connects to the NYC subway. Ride-sharing vehicles also operate at the airport at specific locations.
Address: Jamaica, New York City 11430, USA
From $ 49
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Situated between the Potomac River and major city roadways is one of the nation’s foremost centers for performing arts, a cultural and entertainment hub for the city of Washington D.C. With more than 2,000 performances annually, it is the busiest performing arts center in the United States. World-class live theater, classical music, ballet, jazz and opera shows all take place at the venue. Three main theaters including a concert hall and opera house ensure a variety of shows offered. Free performances are held on the Millennium Stage in the Grand Foyer daily.
Outside of the performances and stages, the center also has a Hall of Nations and Hall of States to explore, with collections of American and international flags. Also see the many paintings and sculptures gifted to the center from other nations throughout. The building also has great views of the Potomac River and the Georgetown area from its windows and rooftop terraces.
Practical Info
Tickets for shows at the John F. Kennedy Center must be purchased in person at the Box Office. Shows take place nightly, year-round. The closest Metro station is Foggy Bottom, with a free shuttle between the station and the Kennedy Center departing every 15 minutes. Or, take bus 80 from Metro Center. Garage parking is also available.
Address: 2700 F St NW, Washington DC, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Jefferson Vineyards
A visit to Virginia’s wine country is a trip back in time to when Thomas Jefferson planted the seeds of America’s first vineyards. Jefferson Vineyards, wanting to continue the Founding Father’s dream of wine in the region, offers visitors a rustic spot to sip chardonnay, meritage, and petit verdot while taking in Virginia’s lush landscape.
The Basics
The historic location of Jefferson Vineyards, just 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) south of the historic Monticello estate, offers guests a well-rounded experience to learn about American history and Virginia wine. See how Jefferson and Italian viticulturist Filippo Mazzei imagined the state’s vineyards as you tour the winery, taste its varietals, and admire the beautiful views of Monticello and beyond. You can also hop on a private tour of the Monticello Wine Trail to explore other wineries in the Charlottesville region and learn how the unique climate of Virginia affects the wines. If traveling independently, you can spend the day exploring Jefferson Vineyards and other wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, or visit Monticello itself and the University of Virginia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jefferson Vineyards is a must-visit for American history buffs and wine lovers.
- Wine tastings are available for a small fee and come with a souvenir glass.
- Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grassy hillside.
- The vineyards are wheelchair accessible and family friendly.
How to Get There
Jefferson Vineyards, located on the eastern side of Monticello, is a 10-minute drive from Charlottesville. If you’re coming from farther afield, take Route 29 from Washington DC or I-64 from Richmond. The Monticello Wine Trail is accessible only by car or organized charter bus.
When to Get There
The vineyards are open daily from 11am to 6:15pm; see the website for seasonal closures. Fall is the best time to visit Virginia, when the weather is crisp and the trees explode in hues of yellow, orange, and red.
The History of Jefferson Vineyards
Convinced by other Founding Fathers, Filippo Mazzei ventured across the Atlantic with European vines to plants America’s first winery on lands donated by Thomas Jefferson. The two neighbors aspired to produce some of the world’s greatest wines in the New World. When the American Revolution began in 1776, Mazzei enlisted as a private with the colonists—and soon after, wine production seized up until the 1980s.
Address: 1353 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy., Charlottesville, Virginia 22902, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 250