Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Utah State Capitol
The neoclassical Utah State Capitol Building opened in 1916 and is home to the offices and chambers of the state Legislature, governor, and other government officials. The building is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and features artwork, historical items, and monuments both inside and around the grounds.
The Basics
As one of Salt Lake City’s most prominent landmarks, the Capitol Building is included on most city sightseeing tours. Free tours of the Capitol are led by volunteer docents on weekdays and depart from just inside the east entrance, or you may explore on your own. Highlights include rotating exhibits about Utah’s history and heritage in the fourth floor gallery, and the architecture and frescoes of the Rotunda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visitor services office is open on weekdays.
- A limited number of wheelchairs are available to use at the Visitor Services office.
- An access ramp is located between the Capitol and the Senate buildings.
- Brochures are available inside the east entrance for those taking a self-guided tour.
How to Get There
The Capitol building is situated at the northern end of State Street, Salt Lake City’s main thoroughfare. It can be reached via public transportation on bus No. 500. Public parking lots are located on the east side of the Senate Building; street parking is also available but visitors should pay attention to street signs for any limits.
When to Get There
The Capitol Building is open every day, including weekends and holidays. Weddings often take place on the weekends. Other types of events also take place throughout the building and grounds; if you’re lucky, you might catch a choral performance in the Rotunda.
Temple Square
If you’re at the Capitol Building, you’re within walking distance of Temple Square, just 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) away in the direction of downtown. Owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the plaza is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the city’s top visitor attractions, where you can walk around the landscaped grounds and visit temples, monuments, and other sites that are important to the Mormon church.
Address: 350 North State Street, Salt Lake City 84114, USA
From $ 31
USS Midway Museum
Formerly the US Navy’s longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century (1945 to 1991), the USS Midway Museum comprises an entire floating city. Aboard the hulking vessel docked in San Diego, California, visitors can now explore more than 60 exhibits as well as peek inside the museum’s impressive aircraft collection.
The Basics
Exhibits in the USS Midway Museum include the engine room, the ship’s brig, machine shops, and the crew’s sleeping quarters. Walk along the narrow confines of the upper decks to the bridge, admiral’s war room, and the control tower. The ship’s flight deck is home to multiple aircraft, including an F-14 Tomcat, F-4 Phantom jet fighter, and an A-7 Corsair. Three flight simulators, music videos, films, interactive exhibits, and the Ejection Seat Theater make a visit to this important part of military history a memorable and kid-friendly experience.
Admission to the museum includes a self-guided audio tour narrated by Midway sailors, available in multiple languages. Guided tours of downtown San Diego frequently include the USS Midway Museum as a stop, along with other area highlights such as Sea World, La Jolla, Balboa Park, or a San Diego Bay cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear proper footwear, as a tour of the ship’s interior includes many stairs and narrow passageways.
- Skip-the-line tours are recommended on weekends and during busy holiday times.
- Several elevators and wheelchair access routes have been added to make the ship about 60 percent accessible.
- Children ages 5 years old and younger, active duty military (including reservists, law enforcement, and firefighters) receive free admission.
How to Get There
The USS Midway Museum is located at Navy Pier in downtown San Diego, on Harbor Drive. The Santa Fe Train Depot and MTS trolley station are each a 5-minute walk away. Limited paid parking is available in the Port of San Diego lot, and there is metered parking on neighboring streets.
When to Get There
Allow at least 90 minutes for a visit here. The USS Midway Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with the last admission at 4pm. It is closed on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
Special Events and Festivals at the USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum holds several festivals throughout the year to honor America’s servicemen and woman, and to celebrate the country’s military history. The Fourth of July Festival enables you to watch the San Diego Bay’s fireworks display from the flight deck, and there is a family Veteran’s Day celebration held every year.
Address: 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego 92101, USA
Hours: Open daily 10am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: US$23
From $ 18
US Navy Memorial
The outdoor US Navy Memorial is a circular plaza with a "Granite Sea" map of the world. Two tall, arced buildings encompass the map in the center, the focal point of the Memorial. Fountains with pools, sculpted panels, and long columns embellish the stately Memorial. The eye-catching statue of the Lone Soldier represents every man and woman who has served in the Navy or other sea services.
Adjacent to the US Navy Memorial is the Naval Heritage Center. A pseudo-museum, it was built to educate the public on the mission and history of the Navy, as well as a look into the life of those who serve in it. In the Center, visitors will find interactive exhibits and a movie theater that screens films about Navy service. There is a Media Resource Center on site, which houses historical text and documents on the Navy, as well as a souvenir shop.
Practical Info
The US Navy Memorial is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is conveniently located beside the Archives/Navy Memorial metro station. The Navy Heritage Center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closes on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. The US Navy Band gives a free concert every Thursday at 8 p.m. between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Address: Washington DC 20004, USA
From $ 14
USS Missouri
Step aboard the USS Missouri, a hulking, gray battleship also known as the “Mighty Mo," docked at Ford Island in Oahu's Pearl Harbor. More than 70 years ago, it played an important role in history while anchored in Tokyo Bay when the Japanese surrender documents that ended World War II were signed on her decks. Permanently docked off the active military base and within sight of many memorials that mark the United States' tragic entry into World War II, the USS Missouri (now known as the Battleship Missouri Memorial) is a reminder of the war's conclusion.
The USS Missouri went on to participate in two more wars, and today the 900-foot decommissioned ship serves as a showcase of what life aboard was like. Visitors can wander the crew's quarters and mess halls, look out from the bridge and touch the 50-caliber deck guns. Exhibits inside the ship's various compartments—restored to look as it did during service—share information and crew artifacts from its various tours of duty. Three regularly running guided tours are included in admission and offer different insights: The main deck tour explores the guns and site of the historic surrender; the below deck tour covers the cabins, berths and mess hall; and the above deck tour offers bird's-eye views from the command and control center, bridge and captain's quarters.
Practical Info
Because the USS Missouri Memorial is located on Ford Island, visitors must take either the designated shuttle (departs Pearl Harbor Visitors Center and USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park every 15 minutes during operating hours) or arrive via organized tour. The memorial is open daily from 8am to 4pm, except in June, July and August when it remains open until 5pm. General admission costs $27 for adults and $13 for children ages 4–12. The ticket gives access to three tour options: self-guided, an informational audio tour with 100 stops, or one of the three guided routes mentioned above (35 minutes).
Did You Know? The Mighty Mo was the last battleship ever built, but there were three other USS Missouris prior to this its commissioning in 1944. The fourth, a submarine, is still an active military vessel.
Address: 63 Cowpens Street, Ford Island, Oahu, Hawaii 96818, USA
Hours: Daily 8am–4pm (June–Aug until 5pm)
Admission: $27
From $ 69
Valley of Fire
The Valley of Fire, Nevada’s oldest state park, covers 34,880 acres (14,115 hectares) of red rock formations, sandstone cliffs, dramatic canyons, and peaceful valleys. Some of the park’s most famous features include the ancient Moapa petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and the three-mile (4.8 km) Fire Canyon hike, which shows off the colorful sandstone that gives the park its name. In addition to being one of the most popular hiking destinations near Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire also attracts picnickers, campers, and photographers.
The Basics
With some of the most stunning scenery in the Mojave Desert, the Valley of Fire State Park is a popular escape from nearby Las Vegas. While guided hikes are a popular option, visitors can also opt for photography tours, buggy or ATV tours, or a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of both the Valley of Fire and the Grand Canyon West Rim. Couples planning a wedding can arrange to say their vows amid the fiery rock formations of this state park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ground.
- The park provides little shade, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of drinking water.
- Most tours from Las Vegas last four to eight hours.
How to Get to the Valley of Fire
The Valley of Fire sits within the Mojave Desert, 58 miles (93 km) from the Las Vegas Strip. The most convenient way to visit is on a guided tour with transportation from your Las Vegas hotel, but you can drive yourself by taking I-35 North to the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead exit.
When to Get There
The Valley of Fire is open to day-trippers from sunrise to sunset. Those who wish to stay overnight can do so at one of two campgrounds. For hiking and other outdoor activities, the mild weather between November through March is ideal. In summer, when temperatures can top 100°F (38°C), it’s best to tour the park by air-conditioned car instead.
Things to Do Near the Valley of Fire
While you’re visiting the Valley of Fire, consider a side trip to another area attraction. Valley of Fire State Park is adjacent to Lake Mead, which has plenty of recreational options on water and land. Just northwest of the park lies the town of Overton, where it’s possible to fill upon gas, grab some food, or visit the Lost City Museum, dedicated to an ancestral Puebloan village discovered in 1924.
Address: 29450 Valley of Fire Road, Overton, NV, USA
Hours: Visitor Center open daily 8:30am - 4:30pm
Admission: $10 Entrance Fee, additional fees to camp
From $ 119
USS Wisconsin
Take a fascinating tour of a seasoned, battle-tested U.S. Navy warship at the Nauticus maritime museum on the docks of Norfolk. The USS Wisconsin is an Iowa-class battleship, one of the largest ever built, that started her career in the Pacific during WWII, and served in both the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. Eventually donated to Nauticus to become part of the museum, today visitor can do tours on the decks to see the massive 50-cal gun turrets, and below decks to explore the sailors’ bunks, mess deck, offices and more. Nauticus also has exhibits about the ship’s history, technology and daily lives on the sailors on board.
Practical Info
The USS Wisconsin is located along the Elizabeth River waterfront in downtown Norfolk, that same port she based in during many years of her service. Visitors can take a self guided tour of the ship as part of the admission price to Nauticus, but guided tours cost an additional fee.
Address: 1 Waterside Drive, Norfolk, Virginia 23510, USA
Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day: Open every day from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The rest of the year: Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.
Admission: Admisson to Nauticus starts at $15.95 for adults
From $ 52
Uxmal
The well-preserved Maya ruins at Uxmal are considered some of the most beautiful in the Yucatan. Temple-pyramids, quadrangles, and a large ball court dot the archaeological site. Highlights include the Great Pyramid and the unusually rounded Pyramid of the Magician. A nightly light and sound show brings the magic of Uxmal to life.
The Basics
Travelers to Riviera Maya and Yucatan shouldn’t miss Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its decorative Puuc style of Maya architecture. Visit Uxmal independently or on a hassle-free day trip from Merida or Cancun with round-trip transport. Prebook skip-the-line admission tickets for ease, or visit in the afternoon and stay for the evening Uxmal Light and Sound Show. To see more ruins, take a combo tour that visits multiple Maya sites and includes transportation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Avoid the long ticket lines when you prebook your Uxmal ruins admission.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Bring sun protection and plenty of water, as there is little shade at the ruins.
- Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Uxmal, located on the Gulf of Mexico side of the Yucatan Peninsula. Buses depart from downtown Merida, or, if you're driving, Uxmal is off highway 261, south of Merida. Highway 261 travels along the Puuc Route (Ruta Puuc).
When to Get There
Uxmal archaeological site is open daily. Arrive early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds and avoid midday heat. Sunday is typically a busy day at the ruins, as admission is free for local residents.
Puuc Route
Named for its Maya ruins, the Puuc Route runs along Highway 261 and links Uxmal with three other Puuc-style archaeological sites—Kabal, Sayil, and Labna. In addition to Maya ruins, you also find several small artisan villages, historic haciendas, and hidden cenotes along this well-traveled route that winds through a hilly area of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Address: Merida–Campeche Highway 26, Uxmal 97844, Mexico
Hours: Open daily
From $ 19
Valley of the Temples
An ethereal Japanese temple, immaculate zen landscaping, a palm-lined drive, memorial gazebos overlooking the Pacific and a Koolau mountain backdrop conspire to create one of Oahu’s most peaceful settings. The valley is a memorial park and the final resting place for thousands of Shinto, Buddhist and Christian Hawaii residents, including early Honolulu developer Walter Francis Dillingham (1875-1963) and Zhang Xueliang, a warlord and northern China Army General who died in 2001 at age 100. Visitors explore the grounds, especially to see the bright red Byodo-In temple that looks like it was dropped in front of its reflecting pond via some portal to ancient Japan.
The temple was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first wave of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii and is a replica of the nearly 1,000-year-old Byodo-In temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan. Here, incense wafts from the main temple building and peacocks strut in front of the waterfalls that trickle into koi-filled ponds. When visitors ring the temple’s giant brass peace bell, the sound resonates along mountain walls. In summer and fall, the park hosts annual Japanese Obon dance festivals honoring ancestors here.
Also within the Valley are a triangular-shaped Christian church with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the green mountain face, statues of the Virgin Mary and unique memorial displays including markers shaped like aloha shirts—the Valley is a multi-denominational place of rest for both the living and the dead.
Practical Info
The Valley of the Temples is north of downtown Kaneohe off Highway 83 (47-200 Kahekili Hwy). The memorial park is open from 6 a.m. til dusk daily and the Byodo-In temple keeps regular business hours (9 a.m. til 5 p.m.). There is no admission to explore the Valley of the Temples, but there is a cash-only admission charge for the temple ($3 adult, $2 seniors and $1 child). To access the Byodo-In Temple, follow the entrance road up the hill to the back of the valley.
Address: 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744, USA
Hours: Open from 6 a.m. til dusk daily and the Byodo-In temple keeps regular business hours (9 a.m. til 5 p.m.)
Admission: $3 adult, $2 seniors and $1 child
From $ 79
USS Oklahoma Memorial
The only land-based memorial at Pearl Harbor, the USS Oklahoma Memorial honors the more than 400 servicemen who lost their lives aboard the ship during the flurry of attacks on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Second only in casualties to the USS Arizona on that fateful day, the Oklahoma Memorial on Ford Island commemorates each life lost with a tall white marble column, symbolizing a crisp white Navy uniform. Taken together, the low black granite walls etched with stories and towering clean rows of columns symbolize the ship and the crew within standing tall forever.
The memorial’s location, on the still-active military base at Ford Island, is also significant. The USS Oklahoma’s berth was here, just offshore. When the ship was torpedoed, several crew were able to escape by swimming and crawling on the stretch of land the memorial now occupies.
A relatively new Pearl Harbor attraction, the USS Oklahoma Memorial was designated on Dec. 7, 2007.
Practical Info
The Memorial is run by the National Park Service as part of the Valor in the Pacific National Monument. However, it is located across a channel from the park’s popular USS Arizona Memorial and fronting the Battleship Missouri Memorial on Ford Island. Because of its location, and the need to board designated vehicles with access to the base, visits to the free USS Oklahoma Memorial are often combined with the separately ticketed Battleship Missouri Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum (ticket packages available). A park shuttle departs the Pearl Harbor Visitor’s Center every 15 minutes from 8 a.m til 5 p.m.
Insider Tip: Only one camera and water bottle per visitor are allowed on the military base. It’s best to leave purses and backpacks at home, but if you must bring them a the USS Bowfin Submarine (one of the shuttle stops before the Ford Island entrance) has storage facilities charging $3 per bag.
Insider Tip: Only one camera and water bottle per visitor are allowed on the military base. It’s best to leave purses and backpacks at home, but if you must bring them a the USS Bowfin Submarine (one of the shuttle stops before the Ford Island entrance) has storage facilities charging $3 per bag.
Address: Langley Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818, USA
From $ 125
USS Pampanito
This World War II war ship has officially retired to the San Francisco Bay, where it is docked for visitors to enjoy. Commissioned in 1943, the Balao class Fleet submarine has a storied history that includes the sinking of six Japanese ships while patrolling the Pacific. It now operates as if a floating museum, with its original sleeping quarters, kitchen, dining room, and office open to the public. Walking through the living areas it’s possible to get a true sense of the camped quarters soldiers endured at sea for months at a time.
The ship’s museum (as a part of the larger San Francisco Maritime National Park Association) gives a glimpse into a unique time in naval history. Much of the submarine has been restored to its original working condition, including its torpedo tube, engine room, and periscope. The National Historic Landmark is one of the most visited historic vessels in the United States.
Practical Info
The USS Pampanito is docked at Pier 45 in San Francisco. Located along the Embarcadero at Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s open daily from 9 am to 8 pm for visits. Admission is $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $9 for children or active military. The Powell/Hyde cable car line stops here, and the SS Jeremiah O’Brien is docked right beside it. Audio and docent led tours are available.
Address: Fishermans Wharf, San Francisco, California, USA
Hours: Daily from 9 am - 8 pm
Admission: $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, $9 for children or active military
From $ 20
USS Constitution
The USS Constitution is a fascinating example of United States and military history. The 44-gun, Boston-built vessel hearkens back to 1797 when President George Washington ordered that six frigates be constructed at naval yards along the east coast.
“Old Ironsides," as it’s known today, is officially “America’s Ship of State” and one of the most popular and well respected military attractions in the country. Before entering, visit the onsite museum, which provides insight into US military history, including the War of 1812 and the general timeline of the USS Constitution.
Once aboard the ship, free guided tours are offered year-round by knowledgeable navy personnel. Visitors are also invited to explore and photograph a large portion of the ship, including the main deck and the level below deck. Select summer visitors are invited to join in a special Constitution Experience. Every Tuesday morning at 8 a.m., the crew undertakes a Morning Colors ceremony that includes a rare firing of the ship's saluting battery. Visitors can then board for an extended tour through the ship’s innerworkings before visiting the official museum.
Practical Info
The museum is open year-round Tuesday through Sunday. In summer, it is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; in October until 4 p.m. From November 1 to March 31, it is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Due to its location, immediate, immediate access is restricted. However, paid parking is available nearby. A variety of public transportation options are also available.
Address: Charlestown Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown, Massachusetts 02129, USA
Hours: Year-round
From $ 25
Valley Forge National Historical Park
A verdant tract of land popular for walking and cycling, Valley Forge is a Philadelphia-area escape. Located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Center City, the National Historical Park housed George Washington’s Continental Army during the winter of 1777–1778. See Revolutionary War–era log cabins, cannons, memorials, and more.
The Basics
As a National Historical Park, Valley Forge opens daily to the public from 7am till dusk; park facilities are all free to access. Tours from Philadelphia typically include bus or car transit, as public transportation is relatively limited in the area. Most itineraries stop at the park’s most significant historical landmarks, among them the Washington Memorial Chapel, George Washington’s headquarters, and the Visitor Center (home to the park’s museum collection).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Valley Forge Park is a must-visit for history buffs looking to discover more about American history and the Revolutionary War.
- Visitors are free to explore beyond the designated trails, in which case bug spray is recommended.
- Pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots, particularly if you plan to explore during the winter months.
- Hike the 6.6-mile (10.6-kilometer) Joseph Plumb Martin Trail to see most of the major historical landmarks.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Valley Forge is on a guided, round-trip tour from Philadelphia or another nearby town. For independent travelers, the park is located off US Route 422; it’s a roughly 30-minute drive from Philadelphia along 1-76 West. SEPTA Bus Routes 125 and 139 also stop near the Visitor Center.
When to Get There
Valley Forge National Historical Park is open year-round, though the Visitor Center closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. In spring, there are plenty of scenic, blossoming plants, and in autumn, vibrant foliage. Valley Forge is busy during the summer, particularly around Independence Day, which is typically celebrated here with a range of activities and events. If you plan to visit in the winter months, conditions may become muddy and slippery.
Other Attractions in the Area
It's only a 5-minute drive from Valley Forge National Historical Park to King of Prussia, home to one of the country's largest malls. If you're planning to spend the day outside of Philadelphia, then complement your outdoor adventures with a shopping excursion at the King of Prussia Mall. With more than 400 shops, multiple food courts, and other attractions, it's the perfect place to while away a few hours.
Address: 1400 North Outerline Drive, King of Prussia 19406, USA
From $ 365
V Theater
One of Las Vegas’s cozier venues, the V Theater is a favorite for many looking for live entertainment. There are two showrooms with a total of eight different productions, including “V - The Ultimate Variety Show,” which is frequently named the best show in Vegas. The show has fourteen different acts featuring everything from comedians to magicians and even jugglers.
The V Theater has become known for just that - variety. Many of the smaller, more unique shows that don’t play in the larger venues come to the V. There is something going on every night of the week, and the theater’s location makes it easy to combine with a restaurant visit — for an old-fashioned Vegas dinner and a show.
Practical Info
The V Theater is located inside the Miracle Mile Shops of Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. The box office is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm.
Address: 3663 S Las Vegas Blvd #360, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109, USA
Admission: Check website for show prices
From $ 29
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
There are only 15 American submarines that remain from World War II, and the most-heralded of them—the USS Bowfin—now sits in Pearl Harbor, where the war American’s war first started. Known as the “Avenger of Pearl Harbor,” the USS Bowfin was built in Maine and sailed the South Pacific. It set off on its mission exactly one year after the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, and 44 different enemy ships would eventually succumb to her guns.
Today, visitors to Pearl Harbor can walk inside the submarine to see the cramped metal quarters, and get an authentic feel for the daily hardships of the boys in the “Silent Service.” In nine tours of duty only one crewmember died from injuries in battle, and when visiting today, you can stand in the chambers where these brave sailors celebrated a successful strike. Once finished with the tour of the ship, learn the fascinating history of submarines in the accompanying Bowfin museum, where exhibits range from a ballistic missile that was once housed on the ship, to a 54-foot, human-guided torpedo known as a Japanese Kaiten.
Practical Info
The USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park is open from 7am-5pm daily, with the exception of Christmas, New Year’s Day and Thanksgiving. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for children—and only $5 and $4, respectively, to visit the museum.
Address: 11 Arizona Memorial Dr, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818, USA
Hours: Daily 7am-5pm, Closed Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year's Day
Admission: Adults $12, Children $5
From $ 15
Vancouver Art Gallery
Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, the Vancouver Art Gallery is one of the most impressive collections of both historical and contemporary works in Canada. This extensive gallery contains over 10,000 different pieces of art and has a great focus on the local and regional artists, many of whom are of aboriginal decent. Among the most famous artists on display are Vancouver locals such as Jeff Wall and Rodney Graham. Moreover, the gallery also contains a substantial collection of the works of Emily Carr – perhaps British Columbia's most famous artist.
Like Emily Carr's work, most of the Vancouver Art Gallery's collection is geared towards art that has been inspired by the indigenous life style and culture in the Canadian Pacific Northwest. That said, there is also a significant collection of international works as well, including a series of important art from 17th-century Dutch artist Jan van Ravenstyn.
The Vancouver Art Gallery building itself is a piece of history within the otherwise relatively young city. While the collection has been around for over 80 years, it hasn't always remained in the same location. Today, the gallery is housed in a beautiful building that was built in 1906 and once served as the provincial courthouse.
Practical Info
The Vancouver Art Gallery is located on Hornsby Street and is accessible via the Granville or Burrard SkyTrain stations. The gallery is open daily from 10am to 5pm with the exception being Tuesday, when the doors are open until 9pm.
Address: 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, Canada
Admission: Varies by exhibit
From $ 18
Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver Aquarium is one of the city’s most popular family-friendly attractions, with many visitors coming as part of a day out in Stanley Park. More than 50,000 living creatures—from sharks to sea otters to sea stars—dart, dive, and splash around the nonprofit aquarium, the largest in Canada. As well as marine life exhibits, the aquarium also stages shows, feedings, animal encounters, and trainer talks.
The Basics
Time-tight travelers can pre-book tickets for fast entry. It’s also possible to combine admission to the aquarium with a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city. Daily shows, including 4D experiences in its theater, trainer talks, touch pool sessions, a BC Waters Dive (during which a scuba diver helps introduce visitors to the inhabitants of British Columbia’s waters), and dolphin training sessions, are included in the price of admission. Additional feels apply for encounters with creatures such as penguins, stingrays, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The aquarium is particularly well-suited for families, with engaging and informative kid-friendly displays.
- Allow 2.5 to three hours to properly explore the facility.
- Bottled water is not sold at the aquarium. Bring along a reusable water bottle to fill at stations around the site.
- The aquarium facilities are accessible to wheelchair-users.
How to Get There
Vancouver Aquarium is located in Stanley Park in the city of Vancouver. Ride the 19 bus to the park; the aquarium is just a 2-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open year-round and a wide array of shows and talks take place daily. Mornings are quietest. In summer, consider bringing along a picnic to enjoy after strolling along the seawall at Stanley Park.
Amazing Animals in the Aquarium
The aquarium is split into zones that focus on different marine habitats. The Tropic Zone hosts blacktip reef sharks, endangered seahorses, and pajama cardinal fish, while Penguin Point is home to a colony of waddling African penguins. Treasures of the B.C. Coast highlights the diversity of British Columbia’s coastal habitats, the Pacific Canada Pavilion showcases life in the Strait of Georgia, while Canada's Arctic gallery focuses on the cold waters of the frozen north. The Graham Amazon Gallery—a recreated rain forest habitat where simulated thunderstorms occur hourly—not only houses marine life but also sloths and scarlet ibises.
Address: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, British Columbia V6G 3E2, Canada
Hours: Daily 10am - 5pm
Admission: Adults: $39, youth/seniors/students: $30, children: $22
From $ 30
Valladolid
With its grand historic buildings, majestic churches and celebrated gastronomy, it’s easy to see why Valladolid has been touted as one of Mexico’s ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ (Magic Villages’). The beautifully preserved Spanish colonial city makes a strategic base for exploring the Yucatan peninsula, close to top sights like Chichén Itzá, Cancun and Rio Lagartos, but there’s also plenty to see and do in Valladolid itself.
Start your walking tour at the central Parque Fransisco Canton Rosado, from where it’s an easy walk to landmarks like the 16th century Cathedral of San Gervasio, the Avenue of the Friars and the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, then head to the lively municipal market to shop for traditional crafts and tuck into local specialties like Lomitos, smoked sausage and Cochinita Pibil. Additional highlights include the San Roque Museum, the Casa de los Venados and the nearby cenotes of Zaci, Xkeken, Samula and Suytun.
Practical Info
Valladolid is located between Merida and Tulum on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.
Address: Valladolid, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 96
Vallarta Botanical Gardens
With over 20 acres of lush tropical gardens, blooming with an incredible array of native Mexican flora, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens are among the best in the country and visiting the gardens makes a scenic day trip from nearby Puerto Vallarta. An expanse of dry tropical forest, stretching along the Rio Horcones, the gardens’ unique ecosystem showcases an impressive diversity, with over 3,000 different plant species represented.
Follow the network of walking trails through the fragrant rose gardens and the shady palm gardens, then marvel at the colorful Orchid House, or stroll through the hillside agave plantation, home to an impressive 6,000 plants. Additional highlights include bird watching, swimming in the river and tucking into traditional Mexican cuisine at the Gardens' Hacienda de Oro Restaurant.
Practical Info
The Vallarta Botanical Gardens are located around 30km south of Puerto Vallarta and are open daily (except Mondays) from 10am – 6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is Mex$80.
Address: Carret. Barra De Navidad Km. 24, El Tuito, Jal. Mexico 48400, Mexico
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: Mex$80
From $ 113
USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial floats above the watery site where the eponymous battleship was bombed and sunk, taking 1,177 lives with it, in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The solemn, all-white memorial features a marble wall of names of those who served onboard and spans the Arizona’s width, with openings to look down on the sunken hull.
The Basics
The USS Arizona Memorial is free and open to the public. For civilians, the only way to access the memorial is via Park Service shuttle boats that run according to timed tickets. Visit several Pearl Harbor attractions on a guided tour that includes boat tickets and round-trip transportation between Honolulu and Waikiki. Because USS Arizona tickets are limited each day and often involve long waits to procure, booking a tour in advance is a convenient way to ensure you’ll see the memorial. Note that boat tours not run by the Park Service are not allowed to disembark at the USS Arizona Memorial and sometimes skip it; boat tours with Park Service tickets allow you to disembark and take the Park Service’s tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Park Service’s memorial tour includes the viewing of a 23-minute documentary, round-trip boat ride, and time at the memorial. Plan to spend about 90 minutes there.
- Check the weather before you go. Because the memorial must be accessed by boat, high winds and seas may be cause for cancellation.
- There are no restrooms at the memorial, but facilities can be found at the visitor center.
- The USS Arizona Memorial, visitor center, and related facilities are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Because the timed tickets are limited to the number of seats on the boat, crowding is not an issue.
How to Get There
The memorial is located within the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, in Pearl Harbor on Oahu. To reach the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center from Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, take Nimitz Highway to H-1 West and take exit 15-A to HI-99, then turn left at the fourth traffic light.
When to Get There
The USS Arizona Memorial is open daily year-round except Thanksgiving, December 25, and January 1. If you want to visit spontaneously, the site gives away 1,300 tickets each day starting at 7am—arrive early, as they’re given on a first-come, first-served basis. Many visitors opt to start their Pearl Harbor experience with the USS Arizona, making morning tickets the hardest to come by. Other challenging times to get tickets are the weekends on either side of the anniversary of Pearl Harbor (December 7), as well as over busy summer and winter school holidays.
Other Pearl Harbor Attractions
There are four other main sites at Pearl Harbor besides the USS Arizona Memorial: the land-based USS Oklahoma Memorial run by the National Park Service; the floating Battleship Missouri Memorial, aboard which the WWII peace treaty was signed; the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, where visitors can board and see the interior of the sub that avenged the attacks by sinking enemy ships; and the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor, home to huge hangars of period aircraft.
Address: Arizona Memorial Place, Pearl Harbor 96818, USA
Hours: Daily 7am–5pm
Admission: Free
From $ 4
V. Sattui Winery
A welcoming, yet exclusive vibe pervades the V. Sattui Winery. Exclusive, in that its award-winning wines are only available at the vineyard, welcoming in that the surrounds and tasting room is warm an inviting, and is one of the most enjoyable wineries to visit in Napa Valley.
V. Sattui Winery is a large winery, with an emphasis on its stone tasting room. Red wines on the tasting menu include Merlots, Cabernets, and Zinfandels; white wines to be sampled include Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and a Rhone-style blend of Marsanne and Viognier. Next to the tasting room are a gift shop, a cheese shop, and a large gourmet food store. You can buy a bottle wine and food and have a picnic outside on the shaded picnic grounds. A perfect stop during a day of wine tasting.
Practical Info
V. Sattui Winery is located in St. Helena, along the Highway 29, about 30 minutes from Napa. The winery is a midway point on the Silverado Trail, so you have many nearby wineries to visit.
Address: 1111 White Lane, St. Helena 94574, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 6pm (until 5pm in Winter). Closed Dec 25
Admission: US$5 - US$10 for wine tasting
From $ 399