Things to Do in Usa

Choose from 2,014 Fun Things to Do in Usa

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Set in the arid landscape just outside Tucson, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum showcases the desert’s flora, fauna, and history through live-animal and multimedia exhibits. The museum spreads across 98 acres (39.7 hectares) of natural desert landscape and contains more than 230 species of animals and 1,200 kinds of plants.

The Basics

Explore the Sonoran Desert via the museum’s walk-in aviary, hummingbird enclosure, desert botanical garden, stingray touch pool, and other wildlife-themed attractions. You can also walk through two miles (3.2 kilometers) of trails, enjoy periodic birds-of-prey demonstrations, and watch presentations about the area’s venomous creatures. The museum also houses an art gallery that showcases local and national artists, as well as a publishing company that produces books and guidebooks for adults and children.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is ideal for families and natural history fans.
Children can explore and act like desert creatures in the Packrat Playhouse, a simulated desert environment.
The museum has two restaurants, a coffee bar, and an ice cream shop. The garden also contains two small picnic areas for visitors who bring their own food.
The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, which are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

How to Get There

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is located on North Kinney Road in Tucson, just south of Saguaro National Park. Public transportation is limited and free parking is available on site, so it’s a good idea to arrive by car.

When to Get There

The museum and gardens are open year-round, but from April through October it’s wise to avoid hours of peak heat. From May through September, the Cool Summer Nights program offers extended hours on Saturday nights. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the museum and surrounding gardens.

Conservation at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

The Sonoran Desert boasts the greatest variety of plants and animals of any desert in the world, and is also the only place where saguaro cacti are found. The Desert Museum is dedicated to the area’s conservation and works on projects to control invasive grasses and protect pollinator species, among other efforts.

2021 N Kinney Rd., Tucson, Arizona 85743, USA

Varies

From $ 22

Arizona Science Center

As a non-profit organization, the Arizona Science Center‘s main goal is to entertain and educate people of all ages about science. They opened in 1984 as a small, 10,000 square feet (3,048 square meters) museum featuring select hands-on exhibits. Since its humble beginning, the Arizona Science Center has quickly grown into one of the most popular local attractions in Arizona. Today the Arizona Science Center stretches over 120,000 square feet (36,576 square meters) and is one of the most high-tech museums in the world. With over 40,000 square feet (12,912 square meters) of gallery space, they currently feature over 300 hands-on exhibits in five different themed galleries. There are daily shows in their multi-media Dorrance Planetarium as well as in the giant, five-story IMAX Theater.

The Arizona Science Center is designed around the concept of making learning fun. Exhibits are created to be interactive, encouraging visitors to learn from doing. In addition to the regular exhibitions, you can enjoy a variety of educational programs to help people of all ages have fun with science, such as summer camp programs, adult night outs, and even use of the facilities to host events such as high school proms and birthday parties.

Practical Info

The Arizona Science Center is located in downtown Phoenix within the Heritage and Science Park and sits towards the south end of the park, notably recognized by its unique futuristic architecture designed by Antoine Predock. In addition to the science center, the Heritage and Science Park features the Phoenix Museum of History and Historic Heritage Square, a historic location featuring a variety of old buildings, museums, shops, and restaurants.

600 East Washington Street, Phoenix 85004, USA

Open daily 10am - 5pm, closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

Adults: US$12, Children (3-17yrs): US$10

From $ 229

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery contains graves of soldiers from every war the United States has fought since the American Revolution. It is a resting place for such notable American leaders as President John F. Kennedy, jurist Oliver Wendell Holmes, and civil rights activist Medgar Evers. With some 400,000 graves, famous and otherwise, the 624-acre (252-hectare) site has become a must-see historical site for any trip to Washington DC.

The Basics

Arlington National Cemetery is free to visit, and travelers should start at the Welcome Center, where maps, exhibits, and information services can be found. Notable sites within the cemetery include the President John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame; the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial; and the Memorial Amphitheater. Choose a hop-on hop-off tour that stops at the cemetery, a walking tour of the grounds, or a tour that combines a visit to the cemetery with stops at National Mall monuments, war memorials, Mount Vernon, or other DC landmarks.

Things to Know Before You Go

Keep in mind that the cemetery is a shrine honoring fallen members of the US Armed Forces and that a visit is a solemn affair. Exercise an appropriate level of respect.
Be prepared to go through a security screening before entering the cemetery.
No food or drink other than bottled water is allowed in the Welcome Center or on the cemetery grounds.
The cemetery is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but you must bring your own.
Download the ANC Explorer mobile phone app or use it at the kiosks on site to locate gravesites and monuments around the cemetery.

How to Get to Arlington National Cemetery

To reach Arlington National Cemetery via the Metro from Washington DC, get off at the Arlington National Cemetery Station on the Blue Line. By car, it’s off of Memorial Avenue, across the Potomac from downtown DC.

When to Get There

Arlington National Cemetery can be visited 365 days a year. The site is open to the public from 8am to 5pm in October through March and until 7pm in April through September. It’s less crowded in winter, but be prepared for cold temperatures.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a must-see when visiting Arlington National Cemetery. From October 1 to March 31, it takes place every hour on the hour, and from April 1 to September 30, it occurs every half hour. The start of the ceremony is announced by a relief commander, and visitors are expected to stand and stay silent throughout the ceremony.

214 McNair Road, Fort Myer 22211, USA

Apr - Oct 8am - 7pm, Oct - Apr 8am - 5pm, every day

Free

From $ 14

Arch Street Meeting House

Philadelphia is home to the largest Quaker Friends Meeting House in the world—the Arch Street Meeting House. It's also the city's oldest.

William Penn, founder of Philadelphia and a Quaker, set aside land at the corner of Arch Street and 4th Street in the city center in 1701 for the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers). The land was originally used for Quaker burials, and in 1803 the first parts of the current Meeting House were built. The Arch Street Friends Meeting House has been in continuous use since it was first built.

The Arch Street Meeting House is the site of Monthly Meetings and Yearly Meetings, and it's also open to visitors as a National Historic Landmark. One section of the building features dioramas of William Penn's life, as well as the 18th century diary of a local Quaker.

Practical Info

Tours of the meeting house are offered by prior arrangement Tuesday through Saturday from 10am-4pm, and a $2 donation per person is appreciated.

Arch Street and 4th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm

$2 donation

From $ 19

Arches National Park

The eroded red rock wonderland of Arches National Park houses more than 2,000 natural stone arches, the densest concentration in the world. Geological marvels abound—here you’ll find hundreds of soaring pinnacles, the iconic Delicate Arch, and Landscape Arch, the largest natural arch in the world at 290 feet (88 meters) across.

The Basics

Arches National Park is one of Utah’s top attractions, with more than 1 million visitors each year. Whether travelers want to stroll through the desert landscape on a day trip or venture into the backcountry on a multi-day excursion, methods for exploring the park are as varied as the sandstone arches within. Travelers can learn to mountain bike amid the spectacular rock formations, take a 4-wheel tour of the park’s top points of interest, or experience the park as part of a multi-day guided journey through Utah’s most popular national parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Park.

Things to Know Before You Go

Arches National Park is a must-see attraction for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water. Shade is rare in the park’s desert environment.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
The Arches Visitor Center offers free Wi-Fi.
Several trails, picnic grounds, and viewpoints are wheelchair accessible, as is the Arches Visitor Center.

How to Get There

Arches National Park is located in southeast Utah, five miles (eight kilometers) north of Moab on US 191. Most visitors arrive by car or as part of a guided tour from Moab or Salt Lake City. The nearest major airport is Grand Junction Regional Airport, roughly 90 minutes by road from the park.

When to Get There

Arches is busiest from March through October; during this time, plan to arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic. Summer temperatures regularly break 100°F (38°C), while spring and fall weather can be more comfortable. There are no ranger-led programs offered in winter, but the lack of crowds makes this a peaceful time to visit.

Hiking in Arches National Park

As one of Utah’s most accessible national parks, Arches offers a wide variety of hiking trails, many of which are rated as easy or moderate. Popular easy hikes take visitors to Landscape Arch or Balanced Rock, while the most popular park trail—a strenuous 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) trek—leads to the iconic Delicate Arch.

Utah, USA

Daily

From $ 80

Antique Row

While visiting one of America’s most historic cities, take an opportunity to shop for unique and collectible antiques along Philadelphia’s Antique Row. The heart of this downtown district is a stretch of Pine Street from Ninth and Eleventh streets, where collectors can find shops packed with colonial-era wares and hard-to-find antique furniture. You can stop in at M. Finkel & Daughter to find needlework and silk embroideries from the 17th century. Visit Chelsea Plating Company to peruse expertly restored sterling silver table settings. Or get lost as you browse the eclectic offerings at Blendo, which offers everything from knick-knacks to priceless jewelry, making it the perfect spot to find souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

Practical Info

Antique Row is located in downtown Philadelphia just south of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, and it’s a short 12-minute walk from popular sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Pine Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

From $ 32

Aquarium of the Pacific

Sitting on Rainbow Harbor you’ll find one of Long Beach’s top attractions: Aquarium of the Pacific. Home to more than 11,000 aquatic animals and approximately 500 species, there is much to see throughout their 32 exhibits. In fact, many people arrive at opening time and don’t leave until closing. Get up close to playful seals and sea lions, visit a lagoon with more than 150 sharks, see ultraviolet sea animals against a black light, take in otherworldly jellyfish of all shapes and sizes and roam the numerous indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Many of the exhibits are also interactive, allowing you to pet fish, manta rays and even small sharks; feed birds in the Lorikeet Forest; and partake in tropical reef feedings. Check the schedule when you arrive to see what shows and lectures are going on for the day. If you’re traveling as a family, stop at the desk to pick up special worksheets and scavenger hunt-like tasks for kids to fill out while exploring the museum.

Along with taking in the exhibits visitors can partake in a number of special experiences at Aquarium of the Pacific. While a 4D movie tells the story of Sammy the Sea Turtle and his underwater friends, a Behind the Scenes Tour provides a sneak peek into daily operations at the aquarium. The attraction also offers a number of boat tours for whale watching, dolphin viewing and exploring the harbor.

Practical Info

Aquarium of the Pacific is located at 100 Aquarium Way in Long Beach and is open daily from 9am to 6pm. It is closed on Christmas Day and during the Grand Prix of Long Beach in April. General admission is $25.95 for adults, $14.95 for children 3 to 11, and $22.95 for seniors 62 and over.

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA

9am - 6pm Daily. Closed Christmas Day, Grand Prix of Long Beach (April 11, 12, 13 2014)

Adult: $25.95; Child: $14.95; Senior: $22.95

From $ 24

Apache Trail

Originally built as a copper trade route, the Apache Trail now guides travelers past steep desert mountains, cliff dwellings, lake shores, eroded canyons, and old mining towns. This scenic road winds 120 miles (193 kilometers) through Arizona’s Superstition Mountains, from the outskirts of Phoenix to the vast Theodore Roosevelt Lake.

The Basics

With activities for all types of travelers, the Apache Trail makes for a perfect day trip destination from Phoenix. Most Apache Trail tours last a full day and include vehicle transportation plus hiking, a cruise through Canyon Lake on a vessel like the old-fashioned Dolly Steamboat, and visits to historic sites. Travel along the road’s panoramic Sonoran Desert to find the eerie Tortilla Flat and Goldfield ghost towns, once-bustling mining outposts that are now 19th-century artifacts and attractions; Lost Dutchman State Park, where a legendary gold mine is said to be hidden among the red-rock hills; and the towering Roosevelt Dam. For more outdoor adventure, camp at Canyon Lake and Tonto National Forest or board a jeep for a guided desert tour of the area’s stunning geology, history, and wildlife.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Apache Trail Circle Route takes a full day to complete, although visitors can choose to stay overnight to spend more time hiking, camping, and exploring the desert.
Take extra caution when driving, as portions of the road are unpaved and the desert’s terrain is rough and includes steep cliffs.
Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection, and bring plenty of water.

How to Get There

Most guided tours provide transportation to and from hotels in downtown Phoenix. But, if you’re driving, start at Apache Junction, a city roughly 45 minutes from downtown Phoenix by road, where the 80-mile (129-kilometer) Apache Trail Circle Route begins. Then loop past Roosevelt Lake and head south to Globe and Miami, before turning back toward Apache Junction.

When to Get There

November through April is the best time to visit, when the weather is sunny and mild. In springtime, visitors to the Apache Trail can see wildflowers blooming throughout the desert landscape. Traffic is common during summer, when temperatures average above 100°F (38°C).

Exploring Goldfield Ghost Town

In this Old West outpost, try your luck at gold panning, explore historic shops and buildings, tour Mammoth Gold Mine, and peruse the Goldfield Museum. Satisfy your hunger with burgers and cold brews inside the saloon.

USA

From $ 129

Apollo Theater

The Apollo Theater in the heart of Harlem is one of the world’s most famous live music venues. Some of the biggest names in contemporary music have played the Apollo, including Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, and the master of soul, James Brown.

Hear jazz, blues or R&B, or come along on a Wednesday evening for the long-running Amateur Night. Stars who first flexed their talents as amateurs on the Apollo’s legendary stage include Michael Jackson and Lauryn Hill.

Informative and entertaining daily tours highlight the history of the Apollo and the performers who've played there.

Practical Info

The Apollo Theater is on West 125th Street, between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard (Seventh Avenue) and Frederick Douglass Boulevard (Eighth Avenue). To get here, catch the subway to 125th Street.

253 W 125th Street, New York City 10027, USA

Tours 11am - 3pm, performances scheduled for the evening

Tours - Weekdays: US$16 per adult Weekends: US$18 per adult

From $ 25

Ansel Adams Gallery

Ansel Adams is known for his striking black and white photos, capturing and preserving the wild beauty of nature’s monuments. Through his poignant images of Half Dome and Vernal Fall, Yosemite became a symbol for the evocative drama of the American West and the park took its place in the hearts and consciousness of the American public.

Fans of Ansel Adams will definitely want to visit the gallery in Yosemite, which features original photos, archival replicas and other unique pieces. More than just a display of Adams’ work, the gallery also features works from other contemporary artists; exhibits are rotated every six weeks. The gallery hosts a variety of activities, including photography workshops, viewings of Ansel Adams films and free camera walks every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday during the summer.

Practical Info

The Ansel Adams Gallery is located in Village Mall in Yosemite Valley between the Visitor Center and the Post Office. The Gallery is open seven days a week from 9 am - 6 p.m. during the summer and 10am - 5pm during the winter. Christmas Eve hours are 9am - 3pm; the gallery is closed on Christmas Day.

9031 Village Dr, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389, USA

Open daily 9am - 6pm, extended hours in the summer, winter hours: 10am - 5pm. Closed Christmas.

From $ 74

Antelope Canyon

In Arizona's Lake Powell area lies Antelope Canyon, one of the most-photographed slot canyons in the United States. Formed by water rushing through the rock over the course of millions of years, this southwestern natural wonder has two parts that are often mixed up—the deep yet narrow Upper Antelope Canyon (also known as Spiral Rock Arches) and the Lower Antelope Canyon (Hasdeztwazi), both of which are set on Navajo land as part of the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park.

The Basics
Many travelers visit on photography tours to capture the colors and shapes of the winding canyon's walls or to spot local wildlife, such as the pronghorn antelope. Antelope Canyon tours often also visit Lake Powell or nearby Horseshoe Bend, a scenic viewpoint overlooking a curve in the Colorado River. Slot canyon tours from Flagstaff and Sedona typically include round-trip transportation. Other more comprehensive multi-day tours of the southwest depart from Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon National Park.

Things to Know Before You Go

This Navajo nation landmark can only be seen with an authorized tour guide. The Navajo people know the land well and take sightseers through the narrow canyons and around the surrounding area.
Bring your camera—photography enthusiasts travel from all over to snap shots of Antelope Canyon. Because the interior is dimly lit, you may also want to bring a tripod for longer exposures.
The more popular of the two, Upper Canyon is easily walkable thanks to a level sandy surface. Lower Canyon, a few miles away, involves a longer, more narrow walk that requires climbing metal staircases and is therefore inaccessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Antelope Canyon is set 7.6 miles (12.2 kilometers) from the city of Page, near America's Arizona-Utah border. By road, Flagstaff and Sedona are two hours and three hours away, respectively. Although you must have a guide upon arrival, it's also easy to drive right to Lower Antelope Canyon from Flagstaff, Sedona, and even Phoenix by heading north along Arizona State Route 98.

When to Get There

Although the canyon is open year-round, many travelers consider March through October to be the best time to visit, mainly because of the strong light beams that can be seen shining into the upper part of the canyon when the sun is highest in the sky. This phenomenon makes for a stellar display in the dark canyons, with the sun illuminating the cracks and crevices of the colorful canyon's red rock walls. Expect temperatures near 100°F (38°C) in summer.

Page, Arizona 86040, USA

US$8

From $ 190

Arlington House Museum

A Southern, Greek Revival mansion once owned by General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army, the Arlington House is much more than just a beautiful house. Steeped in history and surrounded by hardwood forest, the 1,100 acre plantation was the general’s residence before the war started. It’s now a standing piece of history and a tribute to his military service before, during, and after the war.

Long before it was General Lee’s home, the house claimed its place in US history as the home of George Washington Parke Custis — Martha Washington’s grandson. G.W.P. Custis built one of the nation’s first museums of historic American artifacts, largely from mementos of his childhood at Mount Vernon.

The 19th century mansion was never intended to be the site of one of the country’s most significant military cemeteries. Bodies were buried here during the Civil War, in part to ensure General Lee was unable to return home after the war ended. What began then has since grown into the Arlington National Cemetery. The estate overlooks the cemetery and the Potomac River, allowing for beautiful views of Washington DC.

Practical Info

Located in the Arlington Cemetery grounds, get to Arlington House by car or metro. It’s a ten minute walk from the Arlington Cemetery Visitor Center and parking area. By metro, take the Blue Line to the Arlington Cemetery subway station. It’s free to enter and open year-round from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, with extended hours during summer months.

Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia 22211, USA

Daily from 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

From $ 14

Art Institute of Chicago

Located in Chicago’s Grant Park, the Art Institute showcases 300,000 works of art ranging from ancient works to pieces created by today’s foremost artists. More than 1.5 million visitors from across the globe flock to the museum annually, making it one of Chicago’s most-visited destinations.

The Basics

In addition to permanent collections that include Pablo Picasso’s The Old Guitarist, Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, and Grant Wood’s American Gothic, the Art Institute hosts about 30 special exhibitions each year. These special exhibits showcase the talents of the museum’s world-renowned curatorial staff and highlight specific elements within collections, scientific research, and other innovations. Even the building itself is a work of art—it was constructed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, which later became the World’s Fair.

You may visit the museum independently or as part of a group walking or Segway tour. Purchase skip-the-line access so you can spend more time browsing the collections than waiting in line. Admission to the institute is included in both the Chicago CityPASS and Chicago Explorer Pass cards. It’s also a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

Things to Know Before You Go

Wheelchairs and strollers are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hearing-assist devices are available at the Michigan Avenue checkroom and sign language tours and tours with sighted guides are available with advance notice.
Dining options include a cafe, outdoor dining, and an upscale Italian restaurant.

How to Get There

The museum is located in downtown Chicago adjacent to Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. There are two easily accessible entrances: one from the historic main building at 111 S. Michigan Avenue and one from the Modern Wing at 159 E. Monroe Street. Several parking garages are nearby, or you can choose valet service. A number of city bus and L Train routes pass within a block or two.

When to Get There

The museum is open daily from 10:30am–5pm, except Thursdays, when it is open until 8pm. General admission is free to all Illinois residents every Thursday evening from 5–8pm. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Gardens at the Art Institute of Chicago

The institute’s works of art aren’t confined to walled buildings—they extend into several outdoor spaces as well. You’ll find traditional flower gardens, mature trees, shade-loving plants, succulents, and more on the grounds, plus one-of-a-kind sculptures, outdoor installations, and reused architectural fragments. The perfect place to take a break from the hubbub inside, the gardens provide a much-appreciated respite to museum visitors looking to take a quick breather.

111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603-6404, USA

Varies

From $ 35

Aquatica

Aquatica Orlando is a sister park of SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove. It follows a South Pacific theme with Australian and New Zealand mascots such as Roa (kiwi), Wae Wae (a takahē), Wai (dolphin) and more. Aquatica Orlando features thrill rides, family fun adventures and several themed animal areas.

Dolphin Plunge is Aquatica Orlando’s signature thrill ride, in which side-by-side tube slides pass through a pool with a pod of Commerson’s dolphins. Hoo Hoo Run is another popular attraction that features a triple-dip multi-person raft slide, and Ihu’s Breakaway Falls is the tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower of its kind in Orlando.

Families will find no shortage of attractions to enjoy here, including Roa’s Rapids, a lazy-river-style attraction with geysers, speed zones and center islands. Loggerhead Lane is another lazy-river-style attraction that passes through the Commerson’s dolphin exhibit, while areas designed for kids include Kata’s Kookaburra Cove and Walkabout Waters.

If you want to check out some animal exhibits, you don’t have to be on Dolphin Plunge or Loggerhead Lane to see the Commerson’s Dolphin exhibit. These dolphins are rather distinctive with primarily black heads, flippers and fins, with white dominating other parts of their bodies. They are small and typically found in the shallow coastal waters of the sub-Antarctic. Another animal exhibit at Aquatica Orlando is the African Spurred Tortoises that are often found along the Sahara Desert’s southern edge.

Practical Info

Since Aquatica is a family park, be sure to wear appropriate swim attire. Swimsuits with buckles, rivets or other sharp objects are not allowed on body slides. If you are bringing children in diapers, they must be in waterproof protectors. If you don’t want to worry about carrying cash or credit cards during your day, get a cashless wristband at any ticket booth, Guest Relations or the Information & Reservations Counter.

5800 Water Play Way, Orlando 32821, USA

Daily 10am-5pm

Varies

From $ 44

Aquarium of Niagara

Established in 1965 by scientists, the Aquarium of Niagara has grown to become a charming and educational place to spend some time in Niagara Falls, New York. More than just a museum, the aquarium is a rescue center for injured sea animals and is home to seals, Humboldt penguins, and all kinds of fish.

The Basics

Both kids and adults love visiting the Aquarium of Niagara to learn more about sea life and to support the aquarium's rescue work. Its mission is to increase public awareness of aquatic ecosystems through their exhibits, displays, and other programs that support their conservation work and research. Visitors can enjoy viewing seals and other sea mammals, penguins, and colorful tropical fish and coral.

Within walking distance of Niagara Falls, the aquarium is an easy place to stop by when visiting the falls. Guided tours of the Niagara Falls area often pass the museum and may give visitors some free time to see the aquarium exhibits. Such tours also include Niagara Falls itself and a Maid of the Mist boat ride.

Things to Know Before You Go

There is no cafe on-site, but the nearby town offers plenty of places to grab a meal or a coffee.
The aquarium puts on many events throughout the day, from penguin feeding to special presentations by experts. Check the website for the latest schedule.
The aquarium is a not-for-profit, so visiting helps them take care of their animals and continue their research.
Admission tickets allow visitors repeat entrance throughout the day, so you can leave to have lunch and then come back.

How to Get There

The aquarium is opposite the northeastern corner of Niagara Falls State Park, New York, off the I-90 at the Robert Moses Parkway exit. It’s easily accessible by private vehicle or bus from Buffalo or Niagara Falls, Ontario. To cross over from Canada, make sure to bring your passport.

When to Get There

The Aquarium of Niagara is open daily from 9am until 7pm Sunday–Thursday, and until 9pm on weekends. It’s closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. As it’s an indoor activity, it would be particularly good to visit during the winter, or when it’s wet out.

40 Winks Under the Sea Sleepover Party

Groups can arrange for kids to enjoy a special sleepover at the aquarium, which makes a great birthday party. Sleepovers include a chance to explore the touch tank, a movie before bed, pizza and snacks, and a special sea lion show in the morning, before the aquarium opens.

701 Whirlpool Street, Niagara Falls, New York 14301, USA

Varies

From $ 25

Art Deco Historic District

Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is a colorful, vibrant section of the trendy South Beach neighborhood. The area includes about 900 unique buildings—from nautical-themed hotels to pastel-colored mansions—and was the first 20th-century neighborhood to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.

The Basics

Building elements in the district include sleek curves, glass blocks, terrazzo floors, pastel exteriors, and porthole windows and railings that are reminiscent of the ocean liners that docked in the area during that time. Ocean Drive is one of the best-known streets in the area, home to many Mediterranean Revival-style houses. Notable buildings include Casa Casaurina, a 1930s Spanish-style mansion that was once the home of Gianni Versace, and the 1937 Park Central Hotel, where Hollywood legends like Clark Gable and Rita Hayworth were noted regulars.

A walking tour is the most popular way to explore the area around Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road. Some Miami tours, by vehicle or Segway, include art deco–themed walking tours in the Miami Beach Historic District. Group tours available through the Art Deco Welcome Center include themes like gay and lesbian life, Jewish heritage, Miami scandals, and self-guided audio tours; they offer private tours as well.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Art Deco Historic District is a must for architecture aficionados.
Restrooms and other amenities are available at the Art Deco Welcome Center, but once you start on a walking tour, there are few public facilities along the way.
The welcome center houses an art deco museum and gift shop.
Those with special mobility needs should contact the Art Deco Welcome Center 72 hours in advance of any tour to seek assistance.

How to Get There

The Art Deco Welcome Center, home to the Miami Design Preservation League, is at Ocean Drive and 10th Street, and is a good starting place to pick up brochures and books. The neighborhood stretches to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, Sixth Street to the south, Alton Road to the west, and Dade Boulevard to the north.

When to Get There

The Art Deco Welcome Center is open from 9am to 5pm every day, and different tours run throughout the day. In the summer heat, it’s advisable to book a walking tour in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun—and the crowds. You may want to avoid Miami’s rainy season, June to September.

Art Deco Weekend

The historic district hosts the popular Art Deco Weekend every year, during which Ocean Drive is closed to traffic and vendors showcase vintage and handmade paintings, photography, jewelry, sculptures, posters, and more. There are classic cars, food vendors, and street entertainment, all set against the famous art deco backdrop.

Ocean Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida, USA

From $ 8

Arkansas River

Flowing through four states, the Arkansas River is the sixth longest river in the United States. Its source basin and Arkansas River Canyon can be found in Colorado, where it is a popular spot to go whitewater rafting. It runs past the Rocky Mountains and drops extensively as it flows through the valley, creating the conditions that are good for rafting and kayaking. Depending on the section of the river there is everything from Class IV and V rapids to gentler II and III sections that are ideal for beginners. Waters weave scenically in and through canyons and gorges surrounded by thick forest and snow-capped peaks.

Aside from boating and fishing, visitors to the Arkansas River often utilize the facilities and the beautiful backdrop for activities such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, birding, and rock climbing. There is also great fly fishing in this part of the river, particularly for trout.

Practical Info

The Arkansas River is located about 120 miles from Denver and 90 miles west of Colorado Springs. There may be fees to access parts of the river, but most of the recreation facilities are free to use. There is a visitors center for the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area located in Salida.

Colorado, USA

From $ 59

Area 51

Military bases aren't always tourist attractions, but the so-called Area 51 Air Force facility in Nevada is – mostly because it's top secret.

Historically, the facility known commonly (though not officially) as Area 51 was involved with building and testing experimental and classified aircraft and weapons. Today, what goes on at Area 51 is also classified, but the site is at the epicenter of lots of conspiracy theories.

Many believe that UFOs and the aliens piloting them have been captured by the government and brought to Area 51 for research. This includes items thought to have been found in Roswell, New Mexico. Whatever you believe, an entire tourist industry focused on extraterrestrial life has grown up in the area, including the small town of Rachel, nearest the site.

Practical Info

While you obviously can't get onto Area 51 itself, you can visit the Extraterrestrial Highway and the UFO-themed town of Rachel, and there are day tours that cover the area from Las Vegas.

Nevada, USA, USA

From $ 200

Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

A Southern, Greek Revival mansion once owned by General Robert E. Lee of the Confederate Army, the Arlington House is much more than just a beautiful house. Steeped in history and surrounded by hardwood forest, the 1,100-acre plantation was the general’s residence before the war started. It’s now a standing piece of history and a tribute to his military service before, during, and after the war.

Long before it was General Lee’s home, the house claimed its place in US history as the home of George Washington Parke Custis—Martha Washington’s grandson. G.W.P. Custis built one of the nation’s first museums of historic American artifacts, largely from mementos of his childhood at Mount Vernon.

The 19th-century mansion was never intended to be the site of one of the country’s most significant military cemeteries. Bodies were buried here during the Civil War, in part to ensure General Lee was unable to return home after the war ended. What began then has since grown into the Arlington National Cemetery. The estate overlooks the cemetery and the Potomac River, allowing for beautiful views of Washington DC.

Practical Info

Located in the Arlington Cemetery grounds, get to Arlington House by car or metro. It’s a ten minute walk from the Arlington Cemetery Visitor Center and parking area. By metro, take the Blue Line to the Arlington Cemetery subway station. It’s free to enter and open year-round from 9:30am to 4:30pm, with extended hours during summer months.

Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, USA

Daily 9:30am-4:30pm

From $ 79

Aquarium of the Bay

Discover the creatures that call the waters of Northern California home with a trip to San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay. Marvel at the wonders of jellyfish or tunnel under sharks to view the true underbelly of marine life in the immersive exhibits.

The Basics

Revel in nature’s wonders at the immersive, hands-on Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39 in Fisherman’s Wharf. Three different tunnels allow visitors to come face to face with the sharks of Alcatraz, view the diverse wildlife of San Francisco Bay’s shallow mudflats, and explore schools of anchovies that call the bay waters home. Touch pools and interactive lab stations bring nature right to the tips of your fingers.

Several passes, such as San Francisco CityPASS, Go San Francisco card, Pier 39 Attractions Pass, Fisherman’s Wharf Pass, and Alcatraz Attraction Pass, include admission to the Aquarium of the Bay. Hop-on-hop-off bus tours also stop at Pier 39. You can also prepurchase general admission to the aquarium online.

Things to Know Before You Go

Book a skip-the-line tour to avoid waiting in line at this busy Fisherman’s Wharf attraction.
The aquarium is quite small and is easily combined with other sights around Fisherman’s Wharf.
A must-do for families with young children or anyone interested in learning more about the ecology of the San Francisco Bay region.
Present a current Bay Area public transport pass for $2 off the admission price.

How to Get There

Located two piers east of Fisherman’s Wharf, the Aquarium of the Bay is most accessible by public transportation. San Francisco Muni’s E and F street car lines stop within a block of the Aquarium of the Bay. SF Muni 8, 39, and 47 bus lines also stop nearby. There is wheelchair-accessible parking across from the main entrance at Pier 39 and additional parking at Pier 35.

When to Get There

Fisherman’s Wharf and the Aquarium of the Bay are busiest during the summer months. A visit during winter or early spring means quieter galleries. The aquarium is open every day from 10am to 8pm; late afternoons, between 4 and 8pm, are quietest. Hours for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day are posted in late fall. The aquarium is closed on Christmas Day.

Feed the Sharks

The Aquarium of the Bay’s tours (not included with general admission tickets) are a deeper dive into the inner workings of an aquarium. One tour takes visitors across catwalks above the tanks to learn above dive operations and caring for marine life. Another tour allows visitors to access a bucket of seafood and feed sharks, rays, and skates.

2 Beach St, San Francisco, California, USA 94133, USA

Varies

From $ 20