Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Cliff House
With its cliff-top location on the western edge of San Francisco, the Cliff House restaurant attracts locals and visitors with its fine dining and views of the Pacific and Ocean Beach. Originally opened in 1863, the Cliff House has gone through many changes over the years and today is part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
The Basics
There are several ways to enjoy the Cliff House, whether you want a gourmet meal or just a peek inside. Make a dinner reservation at white-tablecloth restaurant Sutro’s, which has 2-story windows to maximize the views; enjoy a more casual meal at the Bistro; have a drink at the Zinc Bar or Balcony Lounge; or check out the gift shop for souvenirs and travel books.
With its location on the far side of the city, away from most tourist attractions, the Cliff House is not always part of city sightseeing tours. However, some tour groups do make it out to the Cliff House, especially smaller tours by minivan or private tours that can be customized. A coastal walking tour is another good option, as the nearby trails and beach are worth the trip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Cliff House is ideal for photography enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone celebrating a special occasion.
- The Bistro is walk-in only and doesn’t take reservations.
- Reservations can be made for Sutro’s and for the Terrace Room’s Sunday champagne brunch buffet.
- The restaurants are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Via public transport, the 38 Muni bus takes you to the end of Geary Boulevard, and from there it’s about five minutes’ walk to the Cliff House. Valet parking and street parking are available for those driving their own cars.
When to Get There
The building is open every day, with various breakfast, lunch, and dinner hours for the restaurants and bar. Go Friday night for live jazz or Sunday for a Champagne brunch buffet. Sunset offers the most romantic views and atmosphere.
Ocean Beach
Starting at the Cliff House, Ocean Beach stretches south 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers), marking the western edge of the city and the end of Golden Gate Park. The wide beach draws visitors for picnics, walks, beach bonfires, and beautiful sunsets. Although swimming isn’t common here (the water is cold), surfing is popular.
Address: 1090 Point Lobos Avenue, San Francisco, California 94121, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 48
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
U.S. cities around the country have their own zoos, yet Cincinnati’s is not only the second oldest in the country but a National Historic Landmark and one of the most highly rated zoos in the nation. Its 75 acres of land are home to nearly 600 species of unique animals, as well as 3,000 types of plants. It is one of the largest collections of plants and animals you can find in the U.S. Conversation and environmental research are cornerstones of the zoo, which continues to support and grow endangered species from around the world. Its reptile house is the oldest zoo building in the United States.
Some of its incredible species include rhinoceros, tigers, cheetahs, gorillas, and Masai giraffes. There’s also an elephant habitat and a monkey island. Outside of animal encounters, the Cincinnati Zoo has an incredible exhibit dedicated to Africa, as well as a fun carousel, picnic grounds, and an immersive 4-D theater.
Practical Info
The Cincinnati Zoo is located in the middle of the city on Vine Street, not far from the university and the hospital. Parking in the zoo lot costs $10. It is open year-round from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission costs $16 for adults, $12 for children and seniors.
Address: 3400 Vine Street, Cincinatti, Ohio 45220, USA
Hours: Open daily from 10 am - 5 pm
Admission: $16 for adults, $12 for children and seniors
From $ 18
CityCenter
The dazzling CityCenter development is home to ARIA Resort and Casino, the Crystals Mall, multiple condominium complexes, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, and the Vdara Hotel and Spa. Connected by a people mover to the Monte Carlo and Bellagio hotels, it's one of the Strip's most impressive complex developments.
Everything about CityCenter embraces Vegas' over-the-top excess. The 4,004-room ARIA Resort and Casino is the largest hotel in the world and features stunning water designs, with Maya Lin’s sculpture of the Colorado River and the arched porte-cochère, created by the same designers of the Bellagio fountains.
Then there is the outstanding cuisine, featuring chefs like Jean Philippe, Masayoshi Takayama, and chef Michael Mina. The Haze and Gold Lounge are two of the hottest bars and clubs on the strip, and attached to the Aria is Crystals, a refined retail district offering first-class boutiques.
CityCenter has one of the largest public art collections in the country (with a value of more than $40 million) and is home to the Zarkana Cirque du Soleil show.
Practical Info
CityCenter is located in the center of the Vegas Strip and is home to the Mandarin Hotel, Vdara Hotel and Spa, and ARIA Resort and Casino.
Address: Las Vegas 89109, USA
Hours: Open daily 24hrs
From $ 129
Cleveland Dam
Built in 1954, the Cleveland Dam was constructed for a number of important reasons. Unlike many other dams though, this one is not used for hydroelectricity. Instead, the original purpose of the dam was to hold back water entering into Burrard Inlet, which used to come in at a heavy pace carrying with it a hearty amount of silt and rocks, as well as a heavy current. Cleveland Dam was also constructed to protect a means of fresh drinking water for the lower mainland of Vancouver. In fact, the lake above Cleveland Dam provides the lower mainland with a whopping 40% of its fresh drinking water.
These days, Cleveland Dam makes up a part of North Vancouver that has quickly become a popular tourism destination and in the area around the dam, there are a number of parks and hiking paths. The dam itself sits in a protected park called Capilano River Regional Park, which also encompasses Capilano Lake, the body of water that the 300-foot spillway of the dam encloses. In the area, visitors can also find attractions such as the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn Canyon Park, and Grouse Mountain.
Practical Info
Cleveland Dam is located in North Vancouver and if you’re heading there by car from the downtown area, is best reached via Stanley Park, the Lion's Gate Bridge and Capilano Road. You can also reach the Dam via public transport by catching bus No. 426 toward Highland. The journey takes about 45 minutes and busses leave around every 30 minutes.
Address: North Vancouver, BC, Canada
From $ 121
Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe (La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe)
Puerto Vallarta’s Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe was built over the course of several decades in the first half of the 20th century. Built in rustic pink stone, to a neo-baroque design, one of the prettiest details is the crown that tops the church bell tower.
The liveliest time to visit the church is December 1 to 12, when crowds celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with street processions, festive food and mariachi music. The festival coincides with the anniversary of the founding of Puerto Vallarta, so locals have even more reason to celebrate.
The liveliest time to visit the church is December 1 to 12, when crowds celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with street processions, festive food and mariachi music. The festival coincides with the anniversary of the founding of Puerto Vallarta, so locals have even more reason to celebrate.
Practical Info
The parish Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is on Calle Hidalgo, behind Puerto Vallerta’s main square, the Zocalo.
Address: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 35
Coachella Valley Preserve
The endangered fringe-toed lizard is given room to roam at the Coachella Valley Preserve, which was specifically designed to protect these desert creatures.
Guided hikes through the preserves’ sand dunes and rocky escarpments are led by knowledgeable naturalists who can share their insights into the life cycle of this threatened reptile.
The preserve has more than 25 miles (40 km) of hiking trails. While you walk, look out for eagles, California fan palms, bobcats, horned owls, cottontail bunnies, kestrels and lizards.
Practical Info
The Coachella Valley Preserve is off the Interstate 10 highway, 10 miles (16 km) east of Palm Springs.
Address: 29,200 Thousand Palms Canyon Road, Thousand Palms CA 92276, USA
Hours: Open daily, closed Jun – Aug
From $ 49
CN Tower
For many visitors to Toronto, this needle-like telecommunications tower—often seen from the airplane window—is their first glimpse of the city. When it was erected in 1976, the CN Tower was the world’s tallest freestanding structure. Though it no longer holds that title, it is still the tallest tower in Canada, and the spectacular views from its observation decks are second to none.
The Basics
At 1,815 feet (553 meters), the CN Tower is hard to miss, and almost every sightseeing tour of the Toronto includes at least a look at this iconic structure. To get a real sense of its soaring height, it’s best to go inside. Regular entry, which you can combine with a guided walking tour or harbor cruise, gives you access to the vertigo-triggering Glass Floor at 1,122 feet (342 meters) and the 1,136-foot (436-meter) LookOut Level deck via high-speed, glass-walled elevators. You can go to the even higher SkyPod platform at 1,465 feet (447 meters), though you need a separate ticket. For the ultimate thrill, try the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the ledge of the tower’s main pod. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is located on the ground floor. For a novel perspective of the tower, take a helicopter tour over Toronto’s skyline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear a jacket or outer layer as it can be cold on the Outdoor SkyTerrace, located on the same level as the world-famous Glass Floor.
- Access to the observation level is free to those who dine in the tower’s revolving restaurant.
- The Glass Floor, LookOut Level, and the first level of the SkyPod are all accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
CN Tower is located beside the Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. The visitors’ entrance is on Bremner Boulevard. Take the subway (line 1 Yonge-University) to Union Station and walk west along Front Street. It’s a five- to 10-minute walk from the station.
When to Get There
Summer weekends are peak visiting days. Most people come between 11am and 5pm—go in early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. After sunset, you can witness the tower’s eight-minute light show, which takes place on the hour.
What the CN Tower Actually Does
More than just a show-stopping architectural icon and tourist attraction, the CN Tower serves a practical purpose as a telecommunications tower. Prior to its construction, the increasingly tall Toronto skyline was making it difficult to transmit radio and television signals. Though the tower may appear spindly, it is in fact very sturdy. It is covered with thick reinforced concrete, weighs 130,000 tons (117,910 metric tonnes), and is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Address: 301 Front Street West, Downtown South, Toronto M5V 2T6, Canada
Hours: Open daily 9am - 11pm
Admission: Adults: CA$36.00
From $ 16
Clay Cooper Theatre
The city of Branson, Missouri is famous for its many theaters and entertainment venues, and one of the acts visitors have been enjoying for more than 25 years is at the Clay Cooper Theatre. Clay first performed in Branson at the age of 16 in a band with other kids, and he loved the atmosphere so much he ended up staying. At the Clay Cooper Theatre, he's been performing with his Country Music Express – a country music variety show – for more than 25 years.
Entertainers in the Clay Cooper Music Express include a cowboy trick roper, a comedian, dancers, and a talented band. There are other regular acts at the theatre, and some special acts that appear for short engagements.
Practical Info
The Clay Cooper Theatre is located on Highway 76 in Branson, where many of the city's theaters are. It's across from the Titanic Museum. The show runs nearly year-round (there's a break in January and most of February), and tickets start at $30 for adults, $18 for teens, and $16 for kids age 4-12.
Address: 3216 W. 76 Country Blvd, Branson, Missouri, USA
Hours: Nearly year-round
Admission: Adults: $30; Teens: $18; Children (4-12): $16
From $ 34
Clearwater Beach
With expansive white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater Beach is a waterfront Florida community known for its aquatic activities and warm, turquoise waters. Clearwater Beach is an ideal launching pad for kayaking, parasailing, boating, and biking. It’s known as being more low-key than its southern neighbor, the bustling St. Pete Beach, and many consider Clearwater Beach to be among the best beaches in America.
The Basics
There’s an activity for every age and interest at Clearwater Beach, from relaxing on the sand with beach chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas to jet-skiing, speed boating, and fishing. Families with kids enjoy the gentle surf, prime for swimming and water sports. Visitors often steal away from nearby theme parks to spend time on the water, sometimes on day trips from Orlando and St. Petersburg.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At three miles long, Clearwater Beach is easy to navigate by car, bike, or foot.
- Mandalay Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, is a mile-long stretch of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- To get an overview of the area, jump on the Jolley Trolley (fees apply), which travels around Clearwater Beach and up to Sand Key.
- Be sure to bring sun-protection gear and beachwear. Restroom and shower facilities are offered at most area beaches.
- Beach wheelchairs are available at the Main Beach Lifeguard Station, south of Pier 60.
How to Get There
Clearwater Beach is about 22 miles north of St. Pete Beach and two miles west of downtown Clearwater. The road south is South Gulfview Boulevard, and north is Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach’s main drag. The nearest airports are in Tampa, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, and St. Petersburg-Clearwater, 12 miles (19 kilometers). The beach is about a two-hour drive from Orlando.
When to Get There
Clearwater Beach is warm year-round, with peak temperatures from April to October. Summer temperatures often hit upwards of 90°F (32°C), when the humid, subtropical climate often also sees short thunderstorms. The mild winters attract the largest crowds.
More Than Just a Beach
Visitors to Clearwater Beach can do more than just lounge by the famously clear water. Plan ahead and book a deep-sea fishing tour or a dolphin boat tour, or check out the “Sea Screamer,” a speedboat that zooms along the coast. Don’t miss the 1,080-foot (329-meter) Pier 60, with its bait shop, playground, and evening sunset festival, or beautiful Sand Key Park, which sees smaller crowds.
Address: Clearwater Beach 33760, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 65
Circus Circus Hotel & Casino
Circus Circus is a hotel and casino that combines a live circus show with the fun and flavor of Sin City. Featuring an indoor amusement park and all the usual Vegas casino games, Circus Circus treads a fine line between 'family' entertainment and straight-up adult gaming entertainment.
In the casino rooms, live circus acts are performed overhead, complete with trapeze artists, and acrobats, giving a new meaning to clowning around.
Then there’s the Adventuredome, an indoor amusement park featuring laser tag, roller coasters, and 3-D rides. These thrill rides are a popular destination for families and couples alike, so get ready to scream in delight.
Practical Info
Circus Circus is located in the northern part of the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel itself is a little down-at-the-heels; this ain't the Wynn, so don't expect anything too fancy.
Address: 2880 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas 89109, USA
Hours: Open daily 24 hours
From $ 54
Circular Congregational Church of Charleston
The Circular Congregational Church of Charleston is one of the oldest continuously worshipping churches in the United States of America. English Congregationalists, Scots Presbyterians, and French Huguenots came together in a spirit of diversity and liberality to erect this impressive architectural structure, built round to represent and hold an open meeting place with a free-flowing exchange of ideas. This meeting house helped to define the young “Charles Towne” and early on this street was known as Meeting House Street, later shortened to simply “Meeting Street,” where the church, to this day, still stands.
Founded in 1681 along with city of Charleston, the Circular Church, in this way, acts as a partner with the Charleston Museum to house some of greatest wealth of Colonial America’s history. With its own ripe history including its efforts to promote tolerance and understanding, its years in exile, and the extensive and ancient graveyard art, to this day, the Circular Congregational Church of Charleston acts as a gathering place for Congregationalists and history lovers alike.
The Circular Congregational Church of Charleston is located at 150 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina. It is open every day, and holds Sunday morning worship at 11 a.m.
Address: 150 Meeting Street, Charleston 29401, USA
Hours: Daily; Sunday morning worship at 11 a.m.
From $ 26
Church of Santo Domingo (Iglesia de Santo Domingo)
Dating back to the 16th century when it was first built, the impressive Church of Santo Domingo towers over the historic center of Puebla, Mexico. Painted in deep reds and built with faded gray stone, the Roman Catholic cathedral and square is a major landmark for the town. It was constructed by the order of the Dominicans and was once part of a larger Dominican convent that stretched more than two blocks. The main altarpiece of the church is its most impressive sight, opulently decorated in gold life-size statues of religious figures. The interior stretches four stories from floor to ceiling, with domed ceilings and windows letting in soft, natural light.
Behind the facade lies the Capilla del Rosario, or chapel of the rosary, one of the most ornately decorated interiors in all of Mexico. Its detailed use of gold leaf, tile, and gilded stucco is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque art and architecture.
Practical Info
The Church of Santo Domingo is located on Calle 5 de Mayo three blocks from the Zocalo, or main square.
Address: Calle 5 de Mayo, Centro, Puebla, Mexico
From $ 59
Clark County Museum
Travelers who want to travel back in time and learn a little something about Nevada’s rich and dynamic past can do just that during a visit to the Clark County Museum. This memorable stop, which includes eight historic buildings from around the county, highlights the best of the stat’s southernmost county.
Visitors who wander the vast grounds, tour the museum galleries and explore the museum’s top highlights will find plenty of information about the Native American tribes who lived in the county, railroad development and the famous Anna Roberts Parks. There’s even a reconstructed ghost town that offers up spooky fun for the entire family, making this desert landmark a top attraction for the younger set, too.
Practical Info
The Clark County Museum is located in Henderson, Nevada at 1830 South Boulder Highway. It is open daily from 9 am until 4:30 pm.
Address: 1830 S Boulder Hwy, Henderson, Nevada 89002, USA
Hours: 9 am until 4:30 pm daily
Admission: Adults $2.00, seniors and children $1.00
From $ 110
Civic Center
In a select few blocks of San Francisco’s bustling downtown lies the beautiful Civic Center. Known for housing some of the city’s main governmental and cultural institutions, the Civic Center is a hub of activity and not just for municipal officials – there’s really a lot to do and see. Take a look and you’ll find the impressive City Hall and War Memorial Opera House built in the beautiful Beaux Arts style. The San Francisco Public Library houses millions(!) of books, and on Sunday mornings the UN Plaza Farmers’ Market has more fine nibbling you could hope to wish for. After touring the buildings, consider the adjacent Hayes Valley for wandering the antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and book stores.
Practical Info
The San Francisco Civic Center is a few blocks long, but its main thoroughfare is Van Ness Ave. and is bounded by Market Street on the south, Franklin Street on the west, Turk Street on the north, and Leavenworth and Seventh on the east.
Address: San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 30
Coba Ruins
In the heart of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula lie the ruins of Coba, an ancient Maya city considered to be one of the most important settlements in Mesoamerican history. During its peak between AD 500 and 900, Coba housed 50,000 residents and was the central terminus for the complex Maya system of roadways. The jungle site is still being excavated, but visitors can experience the already discovered remains of these sacbes, or stone causeways, as well as a number of engraved and sculpted monuments.
The Basics
The Coba ruins are an easy day trip from Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. Visitors can stroll or bike past two ball courts and the roads that once linked major Maya cities, and climb 120 steep steps up Nohoch Mul (the tallest ancient pyramid on the Yucatan Peninsula) for panoramic views of the lush Mexican jungle. Take a small-group or private tour of the ruins to gain deep insights into ancient Maya culture, or beat the crowds with an archaeologist-led, early-access tour of both Coba and Chichen Itza. If you’re feeling adventurous, combine your visit with a cenote swim, a snorkeling excursion, or a visit to an authentic Maya village.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The archaeological site is vast, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking and at least a few hours of exploring.
- The top of Nohoch Mul is inaccessible to visitors with limited mobility, but pedicab services are available onsite for tours around the ruins. The Coba ruins are one of the more accessible Maya sites in the area.
- Restrooms can be found at the entrance to the ruins.
- Bring insect repellent, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
How to Get There
Coba is roughly 45 minutes by road from Tulum, traveling inland. If driving, take extra precaution at small villages that are known for their speed bumps. Several public buses also make the 3-hour journey each day, but you can save the hassle by taking a guided day trip, many of which include hotel pickup and drop-off.
When to Get There
The archaeological site is open year-round. High season (December through April) brings sunny weather along with lots of visitors; go early to avoid the crowds that start pouring in at about 11am. Visit during the rainy season (May through October) for lower prices and fewer crowds, but be prepared to change your plans according to the weather.
Can’t-Miss Sights Near Coba
The Yucatan jungle surrounding the Coba ruins is worth exploring on its own. Try combining a tour of the ancient city with a trip to cool off in a cenote, a limestone sinkhole filled with clear water that’s great for swimming, tubing, or kayaking. You can also explore the nearby Tulum and Chichen Itza ruins, try your hand at ziplining in the forest, or visit the Xel-Ha aquatic park.
Address: Coba, Mexico
Admission: $6
From $ 59
Clifton Hill
Clifton Hill is a neon-heavy, Vegas-like strip filled with a concentrated cluster of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the 175-foot (53-meter) Niagara SkyWheel, Guinness World Records Museum, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, and several haunted houses are among its prominent points of interest.
The Basics
The bustling promenade of Clifton Hill is one of Niagara Falls most attraction-packed thoroughfares. Many visitors to the falls will find themselves here at some point, whether en route to a Hornblower Cruise or to visit one of the many other attractions based here.
Visitors can pre-purchase tickets for Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum and for the Niagara SkyWheel, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Horseshoe and American falls, Niagara River, and Niagara Parks. If you plan on visiting a few of the major attractions here, consider opting for a multi-attraction Clifton Hill pass, which will get you access to the Niagara SkyWheel, Movieland Wax Museum of Stars, the Wild West Coaster ride, the Zombie Attack experience, the Ghost Blasters Dark Ride, and either Wizards’ Golf or Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Clifton Hill is a must-do for families and thrill-seekers.
- Lots of restaurants, bars, and cafés are located along the strip.
- Some of Clifton Hill’s attractions, including the Niagara SkyWheel, Wild West Coaster, and Wizards Golf, are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Clifton Hall is located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, connecting River Road on Niagara Parkway to the intersection of Victoria Avenue. To get there, ride the WEGO red, blue, or green line buses to the Clifton Hill/Hornblower Niagara Cruises stop.
When to Get There
Clifton Hill is fun to visit in any season, with attractions, like the Niagara SkyWheel, Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, and the Fun House, open throughout the year. Summers are when Clifton Hill is liveliest and arguably most atmospheric, though in winter, the Winter Festival of Lights helps ensure it’s never dull. Visit Clifton Hill early in the morning, while other sightseers are just waking up, to avoid the biggest crowds.
How to View the Niagara Illuminations from Clifton Hill
To get the most out of your Clifton Hill experience, wait until night to go up the SkyWheel. Once it’s dark, you’ll be able to see the Falls Illumination, during which Niagara Falls is lit up with twinkling LED lights. During the summer months, you may even get to see the Niagara Falls Fireworks spectacle from the pod of the Ferris wheel, which rises 175 feet (53 meters).
Address: 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls L2G 3N4, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 8
Citadel of Quebec (Citadelle de Quebec)
The huge star-shaped Citadel of Quebec (La Citadelle de Quebec) is the largest military fortress in North America still occupied by troops. Begun by the French in the 1750s, the fortress was completed by the British in the mid-19th century, but never actually saw any action. Today, Canada’s French-speaking Royal 22nd Regiment (Royal 22e Régiment) is based here.
The Basics
Sightseeing and hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City often visit the Citadel of Quebec, with guides providing commentary about its history and current role as a base for Canadian forces. Purchase a ticket to explore the National Historic Site and access the Royal 22nd Regiment Museum (Musée Royal 22e Régiment), where weapons, uniforms, and other military artifacts are displayed. French- and English-language guided tours of the complex take place at least every hour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Citadel of Quebec is a must for anyone with an interest in military history.
- A good portion of the tour takes place outdoors, so wear weather-appropriate clothing.
- The citadel is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The fort is set atop Cape Diamond (Cap Diamant), which overlooks the St. Lawrence River. Reach the citadel by car via Côte de la Citadelle (limited parking is available at the site). It’s about a 30-minute walk from Gare du Palais train station and a 20-minute walk from Chateau Frontenac. RTC buses (3 and 11) stop next to Côte de la Citadelle.
When to Get There
Summer is the best time to visit: Tours are more frequent, the weather is warmer, and troops can be seen performing special ceremonies. Changing of the Guard ceremonies take place daily at 10am from June 24 through Labour Day in early September, while Beating of the Retreat ceremonies run at 5pm on Wednesdays in July and August. Nighttime tours by lantern take place from June to October.
Regimental Ceremonies at the Citadel
The Changing of the Guard marks the handover between the previous sentries on duty and the batch of troops taking over for them. Officers inspect the troops, with the military band providing music and the well-behaved mascot, Batisse the goat, also taking part. Meanwhile, the Beating of the Retreat marks the end of the day and sees guards assemble on the parade square to fire rifles. Troops wear bearskin hats and red regimental coats during both ceremonies.
Address: 201 Côte de la Citadelle, Old Upper Town, Quebec City, Canada
From $ 15
Clermont State Historic Site
Steeped in history and built beautifully in brick and stone, the Clement State Historic Site features the former estate of Robert Livingston Jr. which dates back to the early 18th century. Standing tall on the banks of the Hudson River, it has survived a burning by the British in the Revolutionary War and inspired a Colonial Revival in the 1920s. Today it is owned by the state and preserved in its 1930s style, with period furniture and decorative arts that reflect three centuries of history.
Visitors can browse the grand halls and view the impressive art, porcelain collection, and chandeliers that characterize the opulent interior. Tours grant insight into the seven generations who once lived here. Their stories, and the world at the time during which they lived, are certainly worth hearing. You also won’t want to miss the views from its landscaped gardens, which include a lilac walk, a walled garden, and some of the best birdwatching in the area.
Practical Info
The house is located in Germantown just outside of the town of Clermont. It’s open to visitors Wednesday-Sunday from April-October and on weekends from November-December, from 11am-3pm. The grounds and gardens are open year-round from 8:30am to sunset. Tours must be reserved in advance. Admission is $7 for adults and is free for children under 12.
Address: One Clermont Avenue, Germantown, New York, USA
Hours: 8:30am-Sunset
Admission: Adults: $7; Children: Free
From $ 73
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) was opened in 1972 as a marine biology learning center in Clearwater, Florida, about 40 minutes from both Tampa and St. Petersburg. Over the years, it has grown and expanded into a center for public education and animal care (their motto is "rescue, rehab, release") while retaining its focus on marine research.
CMA is perhaps most famous for one of its residents, a dolphin named Winter who, at three months old, got tangled in a crab trap line and was unable to escape. She was rescued and brought to CMA for rehabilitation, but her injuries were so serious that her tail had to be amputated, along with two vertebrae. The story has a happy ending, though. Through collaboration with a human prosthetics company, a marine veterinarian and the folks at CMA, Winter now has a prosthetic tail and she’s doing well. The film Dolphin Tale (2011) was based on Winter’s story; she still lives at CMA and can be visited at Winter's Dolphin Tale Adventure (WDTA), located just a short (free) trolley ride away from CMA.
Practical Info
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage in Clearwater, Florida. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some exhibits are located outside, so in the case of inclement weather, certain exhibits may be temporarily closed throughout the day without notice. Admission is $21.95 for adults ages 13 to 59; $19.95 for seniors 60 years of age or older and $16.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Children 2 and under are free.
Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, Florida 33767, USA
Admission: Adults: $21.95; Children: $16.95
From $ 107
Clematis Street
Clematis Street is right at the historic heart of West Palm Beach and is home to some of the area’s best restaurants, shopping and nightlife. Busy by day and perhaps even busier by night, the colorful district is home to twelve historic landmarks that tell the story of the area. Detailed architecture represents centuries of eclectic styles, while the many fountains and gardens (along with oceanfront location) make this an especially scenic spot.
Boutiques line the street, which is full of antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and cafes (Antique Row features 40 specialty shops alone.) Boats dock at the floating pier at the water’s edge, and year-round water sports and activities can be launched from nearby. By night there are often live music performances or music booming from one of many nightclubs. The area is known for its nightlife particularly on Thursday nights, when it transforms into a lively street party called ‘Clematis By Night.’ The event also hosts weekly free concerts on the waterfront.
Practical Info
Clematis Street runs parallel to Okeechobee Blvd in downtown West Palm Beach, which is also the name of the nearest exit off of I-95. The main area of Clematis Streets beings at Flagler Drive on the Intracoastal Waterway and continues west. Street and garage parking is available. Walking is the best way to get around, though there is also a free shuttle that runs the length of the main street.
Address: Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401, USA
From $ 69