Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Tower of the Americas
Located in the center of HemisFair Park, this 750-foot tall tower offers one of the best aerial views of San Antonio in the city as well as a variety of experiences. First there is the Flags Over Texas Observation Deck, which allows you a bird’s-eye view of iconic sites -- either through the telescope or by using photographs on the deck floor that show you where to find specific buildings and landmarks. Additionally, you can learn about over 300 years of Texas history through a mural exhibit on the walls. Included in your admission ticket is also a 4D Theater Ride, “Skies Over Texas.” The interactive ride takes you on a sensory journey through the state to watch NASA astronauts train at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, attend a local football game, view horses running in the wild and visit some of San Antonio’s most important attractions.
For an ambient dining experience, head to their 360-degree rotating restaurant, Chart House Restaurant. Featuring an expansive wine list and food menu, you can order dishes like “Macadamia Crusted Mahi,” “Prime Rib and Cold Water Lobster Tail” and “Shrimp and Crab Fondue,” all while enjoying panoramic views of Alamo City. We recommend visiting during their Monday through Friday happy hour from 4:30pm to 7pm, where you can take advantage of specials like $5 wine, $3 domestic drafts, $6 cocktails and bar bites ranging from $4 to $6.
The observation deck is open Sunday through Thursday, 10am to 10pm, and Friday through Saturday, 10am to 11pm. Tickets are $10.95 for adults, $9.95 for seniors and military, $8.95 for children 4 to 12 and free for children three and younger.
For an ambient dining experience, head to their 360-degree rotating restaurant, Chart House Restaurant. Featuring an expansive wine list and food menu, you can order dishes like “Macadamia Crusted Mahi,” “Prime Rib and Cold Water Lobster Tail” and “Shrimp and Crab Fondue,” all while enjoying panoramic views of Alamo City. We recommend visiting during their Monday through Friday happy hour from 4:30pm to 7pm, where you can take advantage of specials like $5 wine, $3 domestic drafts, $6 cocktails and bar bites ranging from $4 to $6.
The observation deck is open Sunday through Thursday, 10am to 10pm, and Friday through Saturday, 10am to 11pm. Tickets are $10.95 for adults, $9.95 for seniors and military, $8.95 for children 4 to 12 and free for children three and younger.
Address: 601 Tower Of Americas Way, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA
Hours: Skies Over Texas (4D Theater Ride) & Flags Over Texas (Observation Deck): Sun-Thu 10:00am - 10:00pm, Fri-Sat 10:00am - 11:00pm.
Admission: Adult $10.95, Senior/Military $9.95, Child $8.95
From $ 38
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Ketchikan is home to a rich Native Alaskan culture, which can be fully explored at the Totem Bight State Historical Park, home to 15 intricate totem poles. These poles were sourced from abandoned native villages and then restored, and each tells a unique story of Tlingit and Haida carvers.
The restoration project not only helped to preserve important elements of Native heritage, but provided older Native Alaskans with jobs and allowed younger generations to learn about this art form. Look closely at the totem poles and you’ll notice many depictions of Alaskan wildlife, as each animal has its own meaning. An eagle, for example, stands for peace and friendship, while a killer whale stands for strength. There is also an onsite replica Native village, crafted as authentically as possible. Inside the community house, where several Native families from one lineage would have lived together in one large room, visitors can get warm near a roaring fire.
Practical Info
A guide is recommended for a visit to the Totem Bight State Historical Park to provide storytelling. The park is free to enter, and there are a number of trails to explore.
Address: 9883 N Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska 99901, USA
Hours: Daily
From $ 55
Toy Shack
Whether you’re an avid toy collector or just keen to take a nostalgic journey down memory lane, Toy Shack will probably succeed in getting you excited. Though the shop’s floor-to-ceiling displays feature new items, their specialty is most certainly vintage and antique toys, which will inevitably induce a few blasts from the past. Think: old-school treasures such as Barbies, GI Joes, and a massive collection of Hot Wheels — but really, you can probably find just about any toy or game here, and if you don’t, just ask.
Toy Shack is especially famous for its inclusion in the History Channel’s Pawn Stars show: In fact, you might even come across the store’s owner Johnny Jimenez, who also stars in the show, and is famously gracious and friendly with visitors. A visit here promises more than just toys but also an opportunity to check out the surrounding Fremont Street Experience, a dazzling stretch of street-turned-outdoor mall that is covered in a canopy of lights and spans this part of downtown Las Vegas.
Practical Info
The Toy Shack is located a short drive away from the strip, but is easily reachable via the hop-on hop-off bus tour (stop: El Cortez (East Fremont Street)). If you’re into collectors’ items or Pawn Stars, consider joining a tour to visit similar stops, such as the Shelby American Museum, Ultimate Sports Cards and Memorabilia, and others. Meanwhile, get to know this historic part of Las Vegas better on a tour by foot, Segway, or even open-air Jeep.
Address: 450 Fremont St, Ste 117, Las Vegas 89101, USA
Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-12 a.m.
From $ 35
Torrey Pines Golf Course
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean from the coastal bluffs of La Jolla, Torrey Pines Golf Course is not only a scenic spot to play a round of golf, but also one of the top courses in the country, having hosted the Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA Tour since the 1960s, among other tournaments. The municipally owned Torrey Pines is, in fact, home to two 18-hole courses, the north and the south courses, both designed by legendary course architect William P. Bell. Of the two, the south course is the most challenging and in demand among expert golfers; however, hole No. 6 on the north course is Torrey Pines’ signature hole.
Practical Info
In addition to its famed courses, Torrey Pines is also home to one of the largest on-course golf shops in the country, and for visitors looking to improve their golf game, its golf schools offer expert instruction with private lessons and video swing analysis. Tee times must be reserved. Advanced booking fees start at $30 for residents, $43 for non-residents, and greens fees range from $40 to $229, depending on the course, residency, date and time.
Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
Admission: $30+
From $ 149
Tranquility Park
Since Houston is known as “Space City” for its affiliation with NASA, it only makes sense that a downtown park commemorates the day that U.S. astronauts first landed on the moon. Named after the lunar Sea of Tranquility—a basaltic plain on the surface of the moon where the Apollo astronauts landed—the park today features a replica of a footprint that Neil Armstrong left on the moon.
The first words that the astronaut transmitted from up there are posted in 15 languages, so nearly everyone who visits can read the phrase: “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The eagle has landed.” Most impressive is the park’s fountain, which is designed in large, cylindrical formations to resemble the rocket boosters used on Apollo to get the men to the moon. The park also features craters and mounds meant to mimic the moon’s topography. Although, all lunar connections aside, this is a peaceful place for a pensive moment in the middle of bustling, downtown Houston, just steps from City Hall.
Practical Info
The park sits between Walker and Rusk streets in Downtown Houston.
Address: 400 Rusk St, Houston, Texas, USA 77002, USA
Hours: Daily 24/7
From $ 64
TriBeCa
Located in lower Manhattan, TriBeCa, or “Triangle Below Canal,” is known for its cobblestone streets, low crime rate, trendy restaurants and high-quality boutiques. Enjoy sashimi tacos, lobster ceviche and tuna tataki at Nobu, an upscale Japanese restaurant, or for something more budget-friendly, Tamarind Tribeca, which offers delicious chicken tikka masala, punjabi mutton and lobster masala. If you’re sightseeing, visit the Hudson River Park, featuring 550 acres of green along the Hudson River, or the Skyscaper Museum, which offers a look into the history of New York City skyscrapers and introduces visitors to important industry people. If you’re visiting in the spring, check out the Tribeca Film Festival to see inspiring independent and family-friendly films.
Address: USA
From $ 59
Tucson
If you like sunny and warm, you’ll love Tucson, Arizona. With more than 350 days of sunshine a year, Tucson can brag about being one of the sunniest cities in the United States. The 32nd largest U.S. city, Tucson is part of the Sonoran Desert.
All that warm weather makes for plenty of opportunities to get outdoors. The bike scene moves at a fast speed offering roughly 500 miles of dedicated bike lanes for residents and guests to roll along. Tucson is also surrounded by five mountain ranges; the Rincon Mountains, the Tucson Mountains, the Santa Catalina Mountains, the Santa Rita Mountains and the Tortolita Mountains. The combination creates a spectacular skyline while providing practically endless options for hiking and mountain biking.
Practical Info
Tucson is home to more than a million residents and the University of Arizona. It is a little more than 300 miles from the Grand Canyon and just over 100 miles from Phoenix.
Address: Tucson, Arizona, USA
From $ 41
Trans-Alaska Pipeline (Alyeska Pipeline Visitor Center)
The Trans-Alaska Pipeline is a 48-inch oil pipeline that traverses 800 miles (1,300 kilometers). It was built by the Alyeska Pipeline Service Company in 1977 to transport crude oil from Prudhoe Bay’s oil fields to a port in Valdez to be loaded onto tankers and shipped to U.S. refiners. The cost to construct the pipeline was $8 billion, making it one of the largest privately-funded construction projects in Alaska. Moreover, it’s one of the largest pipeline systems in the world, and because much of the ground that it is laid on is frozen sections of the pipeline are either built above ground or buried and insulated.
It’s astonishing that the pipe has withstood the harsh Alaska weather for so long. Today, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline is a popular tourist attraction, especially for those who want to get a photograph of themselves touching it.
The Alyeska Pipeline Visitor Center on the Steese Highway at milepost 8.4 between Fox and Fairbanks is also worth a visit. This free-to-enter attraction provides a great introduction to the pipeline as it gives historical and background information as well as fun facts. For example, did you know the pipeline’s highest elevation is 4,739 feet (1,444 meters) at Atigun Pass? After leaving you’ll really understand what makes the Trans-Alaska Pipeline such an engineering marvel.
It’s astonishing that the pipe has withstood the harsh Alaska weather for so long. Today, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline is a popular tourist attraction, especially for those who want to get a photograph of themselves touching it.
The Alyeska Pipeline Visitor Center on the Steese Highway at milepost 8.4 between Fox and Fairbanks is also worth a visit. This free-to-enter attraction provides a great introduction to the pipeline as it gives historical and background information as well as fun facts. For example, did you know the pipeline’s highest elevation is 4,739 feet (1,444 meters) at Atigun Pass? After leaving you’ll really understand what makes the Trans-Alaska Pipeline such an engineering marvel.
Address: USA
From $ 115
Trump Tower
At 58 stories and 664 feet high, Trump Tower stands tall in the New York City skyline. Both residential and commercial in use, the skyscraper is best known for its six story atrium and illuminated waterfall in the lavish lobby. The use of pink and white marble, skylight, and mirrors adds to the opulence. Its distinctive design is visible from many parts of the city, and the interior offers beautiful views of the city and Central Park.
Though the top of the tower is accessible only to residents and office staff, the five levels of shops, galleries, and restaurants are open to the public. It is both the residence of Donald Trump and the headquarter offices of the Trump organization.
Circumventing building codes, Donald Trump developed the building plans to stretch beyond the normal height allowed for its amount of space. When it was constructed it was the tallest all-glass building in New York. It is the 57th tallest building in Manhattan.
Practical Info
Trump Tower is located on Fifth Avenue near 56th Street in midtown Manhattan. It is next door to the world famous Tiffany and Company jewelry store. The lobby is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. Hours for the various shops and restaurants inside vary.
Address: 725 Fifth Avenue, New York City, New York, USA, USA
Hours: Open daily 8am-10pm
From $ 35
Treasure Island
Man-made Treasure Island was created for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition and then became home to a naval training station and other military sites. In recent years, the small isle has become a trendy destination for its urban wineries, a monthly festival, and unbeatable views of downtown San Francisco and the bay.
The Basics
Located in the middle of the bay between San Francisco and Oakland, Treasure Island is outside the range of most city tours. If you want to visit, opt for a nighttime tour, where you can admire the lights of the Bay Bridge and the twinkling San Francisco skyline. Alternatively, get a view of the island from a helicopter flight, bay cruise, or speedboat ride.
Activities on the island include walking or biking along the shoreline, visiting the Treasure Island Museum, wine tasting at one of the island’s low-key establishments, such as Winery SF, and checking out the monthly TreasureFest, where you’ll find food trucks, clothing and art vendors, kids’ entertainment, and live music.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Treasure Island is ideal for wine lovers and those who want to see a different side of San Francisco, off the tourist path.
- With its location on the water, Treasure Island is exposed to the elements so bring layers and sunscreen to shield yourself from wind, fog, and sun.
- There are a few cafés and restaurants on the island.
- Redevelopment and construction on the island is ongoing; closures of roads, venues, and events are possible.
How to Get There
Most visitors drive to Treasure Island via the Bay Bridge from downtown San Francisco; there is plenty of parking available. Those without access to a car can also take MUNI bus No. 25. You can also take a private boat to the Treasure Island Marina.
When to Get There
TreasureFest takes place the last weekend of each month, except December. Most winery tasting rooms are open weekends only. On weekdays, avoid crossing the Bay Bridge during morning and evening rush hours.
Yerba Buena Island
Treasure Island is attached to a second isle—Yerba Buena Island—which connects to the Bay Bridge. Much of it belongs to the United States Coast Guard, but there are a couple of spots where visitors can enjoy the views, such as Blue Park and the Bay Bridge Trail Lookout.
Address: Treasure Island, San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 30
Torrey Pines State Reserve
If you ever wondered what California might have looked like before so many people decided to call it home, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve provides a glimpse back in time.
This wild stretch of 2,000 acres provide a living, growing picture of what San Diego looked like before it was developed. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is home to miles of beaches, chaparral plants, Torrey pine trees and a lagoon used by migrating seabirds. There are eight miles of trails and a Visitor Center. Free, docent led, tours are given on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays at 10am and 2pm. They run an hour to an hour and a half in length.
There are some rules you should know before you visit. No food or drink, except water, is allowed in the Reserve above the beach. A "pack it in-pack it out" policy applies in the upper Reserve area. Dogs are not permitted, although service dogs are allowed.
Practical Info
The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is open 365 days a year. It is open daily at 7:15am. Closing time is approximately at sunset, which can vary greatly depending on the season. Visitor Center hours during the summer are from 9am to 6pm, while the site is open from 10am to 4pm during spring, fall and winter.
Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, California 92037, USA
Hours: Daily 7:15 am to sunset
From $ 90
Trinity Church
An Episcopal Church located in Lower Manhattan at the intersection of Wall Street and Broadway, Trinity Church is one of the oldest churches in the United States. In 1696, a small group of Anglicans were granted approval from Governor Benjamin Fletcher to purchase land for a new church. The next year, Trinity Church received a charter from King William III of England. Today, the Trinity Church you see is the third building in the same location, built in 1846 in a Neo-Gothic style. Until 1890 when the New York World Building was completed, its 281-foot spire and cross was the highest point in the city. Along with the building’s impressive architecture -- including intricate stained-glass windows, sandstone facade, Gothic spires, dramatic pointed arches and heavy bronze doors depicting bible scenes -- Trinity is known for its vibrant music program and dedication to outreach. Visitors can attend service at 11:15am on Sunday, take in a live music choir concert, stroll through the lush green courtyard admiring trees as well as the Soldier’s Monument or tour the inside of the church. There is also a cemetery with many famous graves like Alexander Hamilton, Richarch Churcher and Charlotte Temple.
Address: 74 Trinity Pl, New York, NY 10006, USA
Hours: Trinity church is open 7am - 6pm Weekdays, 8am - 4pm Saturdays and 7am - 4pm Sundays.
From $ 19
Toronto Islands
Though Toronto’s high-rise skyline is in sight, the Toronto Islands—a chain of islands scattered off the shore of Lake Ontario—feel a world away. The islands, once a narrow peninsula, were cut off from the mainland by violent storms, and now their sandy coastlines and verdant parklands serve as a peaceful escape for the city-weary.
The Basics
The three most visited destinations in the Toronto Islands are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point, which together make up Toronto Island Park. Centre Island features an old-timey amusement park called Centreville, which encompasses a reconstructed turn-of-the-20th-century Main Street, a petting farm, and quaint rides including an antique carousel. Hanlan’s Point is known for its sandy beach—a portion of which is clothing optional—and barbecue-friendly fire pits. Ward’s Island, the easternmost tip of Centre Island, also has an attractive beach. The islands are car-free, so most visitors explore on foot or by bike. Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat to get out on the water. To escape the crowds and reach off-the-beaten path locales, try a stand-up paddleboarding tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Toronto Islands are a must-see for families and beach lovers.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat if you plan on spending time on the beach.
- Rent a bike to travel between the main islands, which are connected by paths.
- Ferries to the island are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Toronto Islands are accessible only by boat. City-run ferries depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, located at the end of Bay Street on Queen’s Quay, and connect with Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point during spring, summer, and fall. During winter, only the Ward’s Island ferry route operates. Private water taxis also go to the islands.
When to Get There
On hot summer weekends, the Toronto Islands are often thronged. Get there early to stake out a good spot on the beach. Hanlan’s Point and Ward’s Island are usually quieter than Centre Island. Stick around until sunset to see the city skyline light up.
Best Swimming Spots on the Toronto Islands
Swimming is one of the most popular activities on the Toronto Islands, as the waters are calm and offer a great way to cool off from the sweltering summer heat. Centre Island Beach is a common choice for families who want to be near the attractions of Centreville. Quieter options include Hanlan’s Point Beach, half of which is a designated nudist beach; Ward’s Island Beach; and Gibraltar Point Beach, home to a supposedly haunted old lighthouse.
Address: Harbourfront, Toronto, Canada
Admission: Ferry rides: C$7.71 round trip for adults
From $ 19
Torre Latinoamericana
Built in 1956, the Torre Latinoamericana was once Latin America’s tallest building. And while it’s weathered a handful of major earthquakes, the Torre is no longer the region’s most towering skyscraper (that title belongs to a building in Argentina). Still, impressive city views from the 44th-floor observation deck, strong drinks at the 41st floor lounge and a well-curated museum that showcases the history of the city make this architectural beauty worth checking out.
Travelers say the Torre Latinoamericana offers some of the most breathtaking views around, but it’s best to wait for ideal weather conditions (and days when city smog is under control), otherwise there’s little to see from the Torre’s observation deck.
Practical Info
Torre Latinoamericana is located at Eje Central Lazaro Cardenas 2, near the Ballas Artes metro stop. It’s open daily from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. and admission costs about M$70 for adults and M$60 for children. Admission is free to those visiting the bar.
Address: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 2, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City 06000, Mexico
Admission: Adults: $M70; Children: $M60
From $ 11
Tribune Tower
Once home to the Chicago Tribune, this neo-Gothic landmark was built as a result of the International Design Competition in 1922. Before this 462-foot (141-meter) building was constructed, reporters from the paper brought back pieces of rock from important landmarks around the world like the Taj Mahal, the Hagia Sophia, the Great Wall of China, and more.
The Basics
Located near the river, a stop at the Tribune Tower is a part of most Chicago architecture and river tours. Alternatively, you can easily visit on your own. Conveniently situated off Michigan Avenue, it’s a short walk from the nearby Wrigley Building, Magnificent Mile, and other popular Chicago attractions. Walk around the outside perimeter to see the markings of materials that came from landmarks around the world.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Tribune Tower is a must-see for architecture fans.
- You can see it as part of a Chicago architecture tour or stop by on your own.
- Visit during daylight to best see the architecture.
How to Get There
The Tribune Tower is in close proximity to other Chicago landmarks including the Wrigley Building, the Riverwalk, and the Magnificent Mile. Take the L to the Grand/State stop and walk a few blocks to the building, or take the 120 or 121 bus line to the Michigan & Illinois stop.
When to Get There
For the best view of the exterior architecture, visit during the day. You can visit the inside of the lobby anytime during regular business hours. Once a year, the building participates in Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Open House event, making for an even better visiting experience.
Other Chicago Architecture Landmarks
The Great Chicago Fire destroyed most of downtown Chicago’s buildings in the late 1800s, resulting in various styles of architecture as new buildings were constructed. Architecture enthusiasts who visit the Tribune Tower will love seeing the different styles amongst other popular landmarks like Chicago Theater, the Wrigley Building, and more.
Address: 435 North Michigan Avenue #6, Chicago, Illinois, USA 60611, USA
From $ 38
Trump Winery
Drink up incredible scenery along with award-winning wines during a visit to Trump Winery, nestled into the foothills of Virginia’s idyllic Blue Ridge Mountains. The winery sits just a few miles from Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroe’s Ash Lawn-Highland. With 165 acres of grapes across the 1,300-acre estate, Trump Winery clocks in as the largest vineyard in Virginia. Its wines are critically acclaimed, especially the sparkling varieties—the 2007 Trump SP Reserve is the highest-rated wine in Virginia—while the Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay rate highly as well.
Practical Info
Trump Winery is located about 20 minutes outside of Charlottesville, along the Monticello Wine Trail. Visitors can stop in at the tasting room to sample Trump’s award-winning wines any day of the week. Tastings cost $10 and include a souvenir wine glass. The winery also offers overnight stays at the luxurious Albemarle Estate.
Address: 3550 Blenheim Rd, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902, USA
Hours: 11a.m. to 5 p.m., daily
Admission: Free, but tastings start at $10 per person.
From $ 250
Tulum
Tulum, the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya walled city and a port for Coba, is one of the best preserved coastal Mayan cities in the Yucatan, in tandem with Chichen Itza and Ek Balam. Highlights of this archaeological site include the Temple of the Frescoes, which has spectacular figurines of the 'diving god.'
The Basics
When to Get There
As with most popular attractions in subtropical Mexico, the earlier you arrive, the better—walking through the Mayan ruins is a lot more pleasant without the midday sun beating directly down on your head. April through October is considered low season, while you'll see fewer crowds and a little bit of rain in September and October. The rest of the year, the tourist industry is in full swing with heavy crowds, so consider an early-access tour.
Things to Do in Tulum Besides Visiting the Ruins
The ruins are set against a backdrop of some of Mexico's best beaches, such as Akumal, that are ideal for diving and snorkeling. Whale sharks frequent the area from June to September, so if you visit during that time, be sure to book a tour that combines a trip to the ruins with a snorkel expedition to get your own whale shark experience. Tulum also has popular freshwater cenotes and passageways to an underground river.
Just a short trip from the Hotel Zone of Cancun and next to the Caribbean Sea, the spectacular Tulum ruins are an ideal spot to explore some of the Yucatan's Mayan history. Perched on a rugged coastline, the ruins are modest but well-preserved and boast stunning views of the seaside area. Stroll through the ruins on a self-guided tour, or sign up for one of the many available Tulum tours guided by an archaeologist. Consider booking an early-access tour to avoid having to compete for space with large tour groups.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Tulum Ruins
Day trips to the Tulum ruins are available from Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and other locations in Quintana Roo.
- Both small-group tours and private tours are available.
- The Tulum ruins are a perfect destination for history buffs.
- Sun protection is a must, so consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, water, and light clothing.
Day trips to the Tulum ruins are available from Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and other locations in Quintana Roo.
When to Get There
As with most popular attractions in subtropical Mexico, the earlier you arrive, the better—walking through the Mayan ruins is a lot more pleasant without the midday sun beating directly down on your head. April through October is considered low season, while you'll see fewer crowds and a little bit of rain in September and October. The rest of the year, the tourist industry is in full swing with heavy crowds, so consider an early-access tour.
Things to Do in Tulum Besides Visiting the Ruins
The ruins are set against a backdrop of some of Mexico's best beaches, such as Akumal, that are ideal for diving and snorkeling. Whale sharks frequent the area from June to September, so if you visit during that time, be sure to book a tour that combines a trip to the ruins with a snorkel expedition to get your own whale shark experience. Tulum also has popular freshwater cenotes and passageways to an underground river.
Boca Paila Beach is a pristine area yet to be invaded by big-name resorts. Local craft markets sell souvenirs, and you can watch the Mayan pole flyers on a walk around town. Tulum Beach Road takes travelers to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere and Punta Allen for swimming in the clear waters, while further along is Tulum Pueblo with its quaint local shops and restaurants.
Address: Tulum, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 10
Treasury Building
As seen on the back of the United States’ ten dollar bill, the Treasury Building is a National Historic Landmark and home of the United States Department of the Treasury. Its construction began in 1836, designed by the same architect who planned the Washington Monument. With five stories of height, the structure is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Statues of significant historic figures — including Alexander Hamilton, who was the first Secretary of the Treasury — surround the exterior.
The East Colonnade features 30 columns carved from the same single piece of granite, standing at 36 feet tall. Additions were then made to the original wings, and after 33 years of construction was completed. Upon its opening it became one of the largest office buildings in the world. The Treasury Building is one of the United States’ oldest monuments and is said to have influenced the style of the monuments that came after it.
Practical Info
The Treasury Building can be found at Fifteenth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., not far from The White House. It is open for guided tours on Saturdays, but reservations must be made well in advance.
Address: Fifteenth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC, USA
From $ 49
Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm
Located on the east coast of Oahu, 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of Honolulu, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts is set in the shadow of the mountains of the Koolau Range and is a stop on many circle-island tours. It’s a great place to enjoy a Hawaiian treat and shop for gifts and souvenirs.
The Basics
Along with macadamia nuts, Tropical Farms sells coffee, chocolates, gift baskets, and other local items. The rustic indoor-outdoor complex is a nice break when you want to stretch your legs on a drive around the island, whether you make the journey yourself or as part of a circle-island tour from Waikiki or Honolulu.
Tastings are typically provided for coffee and different varieties of macadamia nuts, such as cinnamon- or Kona coffee-glazed, and tours are available into the orchards. Cracking the raw nuts is a favorite with kids.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a parking lot on site.
- Circle-island tours that include a stop at the farm typically last from six to 10 hours, as many other stops are also made.
- Kamehameha Highway is a 2-lane road on this part of the island, and it’s the only way to get from north to south along the east coast; delays are possible.
- Tropical Farms is located about a mile down the road from popular Kualoa Ranch, making it easy to visit both in one day.
How to Get There
Tropical Farms is located on the Kamehameha Highway, one of Oahu’s major roads, which runs along the east coast, across the North Shore, and through the center of the island, making the farm easy to get to by car from Honolulu, Kailua, and the North Shore. By public transit, bus 55 stops near the farm entrance.
When to Get There
The store is open daily (except major holidays), from morning to early evening. To experience smaller crowds, go in the morning before most groups arrive.
Kualoa Ranch
Known for its outdoor adventure opportunities and movie filming locations, neighboring Kualoa Ranch is one of the most visited attractions on Oahu outside of Honolulu. ATV tours, horseback rides, and a zipline course provide ways to admire the green mountain scenery, and the movie tour shows you where blockbusters such as Jurassic Park have been filmed.
Address: 49-227 Kamehameha Hwy # A, Kaneohe, Hawaii, USA 96744, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 118
Transamerica Pyramid
The Transamerica Pyramid was the eighth-tallest building in the world when it was finished in 1972. But no matter its ranking, this 853-foot (260-meter) office building continues to be a symbol of the city. With its distinctive shape and white quartz exterior, the Transamerica Pyramid is a special part of the San Francisco Skyline.
The Basics
The Transamerica Pyramid is located on the northern edge of San Francisco’s Financial District. The observation deck was closed after the events of 9/11, so the building is no longer open to the public, but you can check out the 48th-floor view via a live camera feed in the visitor center. You can also get a look at the building on a movie sites tour, helicopter flight, bay cruise, or a Segway adventure.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Pyramid is a commercial building and is open on business days only.
- The visitor’s center is located on the Plaza Level off Clay Street.
- A historical display features videos and information about the Pyramid.
- Driving to the Pyramid is not recommended, as street parking is limited.
How to Get There
Muni buses 1 and 41 stop near the Pyramid, or you can take BART or the light rail to the Montgomery station and walk north six blocks.
When to Get There
Go during the business day to get a feel for the daily bustle of the Financial District, or head there after-hours if you prefer to walk around in a quieter environment.
Transamerica Redwood Park
You don’t have to travel to Muir Woods to see redwood trees—this small green space adjacent to the Pyramid is home to redwoods, a fountain, and benches. It’s a surprising bit of nature in the middle of the city, and a nice place to take a break from walking.
Address: 600 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, California, USA 94111, USA
From $ 40