Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Colonial Park Cemetery
This site served as Savannah’s main cemetery for more than a century following its establishment in 1750. With three subsequent expansions, six acres and over 9,000 graves, burials were cut off in 1853, and the site is now recognized as the oldest intact municipal cemetery in the city.
When the site first opened, it was intended to serve as the burial ground for Christ Church Parish, but after its expansion, the cemetery was opened to all denominations. Since interments were closed prior to the start of the Civil War, no Confederate soldiers were buried here. There are, however, some burials of note; over 700 victims of the 1820 Yellow Fever epidemic are here, along with many victims of Savannah’s dueling era. Declaration of Independence signer Button Gwinnett is buried here, as well as Archibald Bulloch, the first president of Georgia, and James Habersham, an 18th-century acting royal Governor of the Province.
Not surprisingly, Colonial Park Cemetery is home to a number of interesting ghost stories and legends. Paranormal enthusiasts have dubbed it “Paranormal Central,” with one of the most famous ghost stories involving Rene Asche Rondolier, a disfigured orphan who was accused of murdering girls. It is said that he was dragged to the swamp and lynched, and some locals believe he still haunts the cemetery, calling it Rene’s playground. Some local paranormal experts dispute the validity of this ghost story due to a lack of historical records.
Other ghost stories revolve around Savannah’s voodoo culture. Although many have moved out of the city, years ago it was not uncommon for morning visitors to find remnants from a previous night’s ceremony. Soil was used from the graves, and some were actually robbed for use in these rituals. The small park adjacent to the cemetery is the location believed to be the site of Savannah’s dueling grounds.
Practical Info
Colonial Park Cemetery is located at 201 Abercorn Street in Savannah and is open to the public from 8am to 5pm, November through March, and from 8am to 8pm from March to November.
Address: 201 Abercorn St, Savannah, Georgia 31401, USA
Hours: Daily; Dec-Feb 8am-5pm March-Nov 8am-8pm
From $ 20
Concord
Like so many towns in Massachusetts, Concord was the cornerstone of some of the most significant moments that helped shape U.S. history and independence. It was among the first settled outposts of the Massachusetts Bay Colony by English settlers and one of the first interior towns in the state. Perhaps just as important is the town’s rich literary history. During the mid-1800s, it emerged as the epicenter for a period of American history called “The Flowering of New England.” It was during this time that the country’s greatest literary minds rose to fame, including Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Louisa May Alcott.
Today, Concord affords visitors a wealth of must-see attractions, all of which celebrate its storied past. The Battle Road Trail preserves the original site of Paul Revere’s capture, the Bloody Angle that served as an ambush point for colonists, and the home of Captain William Smith of the Lincoln Minute Men. Today it is a 5.5-mile path for cyclists and walkers that passes by beautiful historic homes, wetlands, and fields.
Other notable points of interest include Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Walden Pond, Ralph Waldo Emerson House, and Minute Man National Historical Park. Perhaps the most popular nearby tourist attraction is Old North Bridge, the site of the first battle day in the American War of Independence. While the current bridge is a replica of the original, it still remains a must-see attraction in Concord.
Address: Concord, Massachusetts, USA
Hours: Daily
From $ 56
Colorado Trail
With its snowcapped peaks, enormous vistas, and abundance of high altitude trails Colorado has one of the world’s most exceptionally breathtaking landscapes. The hiking here in Colorado is some of the best on the planet, and few trails in the entire state are better than the Colorado Trail. In reality, this 486-mile trail is comprised of numerous trails—all of which link together to form the epically scenic thru-hike. Beginning outside Denver in Waterton Canyon at 5,500 feet, the Colorado Trail climbs to over 13,271 feet on the highest point on the trail. Most of the trail averages over 10,000 feet, and aside from creating some strong legs and lungs, offers views of eight different mountain ranges and numerous national forests.
For visitors to Denver with only a single day to go hiking, the first section of the Colorado Trail is a popular choice for a day trip. The trail is open for hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding—although no dogs are allowed on the trail since it’s common to find Big Horn Sheep. While you can hike for as long or as little as you please, the full day hike to Strontia Springs Dam is 12.4 miles, measured roundtrip, and is considered one of the best day hikes in Denver. Or, for what’s sure to be the adventure of the lifetime, arrange a car to drop you at Waterton with a pack, a tent, and some food—and then set off on foot for Durango, Colorado nearly 500 miles away.
Practical Info
The trail’s starting point in Waterton Canyon is approximately one hour southwest of Denver. The best season for hiking is from June-September, although severe weather and even snow are possible at any time of year. Nearly all through-hikers begin on the eastern end of the trail, and take an average of 40 days to complete the entire trip.
Address: Colorado, USA
From $ 125
College of the Ozarks
The College of the Ozarks is a private Christian school near Branson, Missouri, that has long been famous for its policy of not charging admission to its full-time students. Founded in 1906, the school has never charged admission. Instead, students work on campus 15 hours a week during the school year and also work two 40-hour weeks during each break between semesters. The motto of the school is “Hard Work U.”
Enrollment at the College of the Ozarks is roughly 1,500 students, and there are work opportunities on campus in every academic and administrative department. With more than 40 possible majors to choose from, that means students get an education as well as potentially valuable work experience in a related field. Not only that, students graduate from C of O with no debt.
Practical Info
Visitors are welcome at the College of the Ozarks, which is in Point Lookout, about six miles from Branson. You can use the campus map to do a self-guided tour, and prospective students can take a one-hour walking tour with a guide. You can visit the Ralph Foster Museum to learn about the history of the Ozarks, and the Fruitcake and Jelly Kitchen to bring home one of the college's famous fruitcakes.
Address: Point Lookout, Missouri, USA
From $ 52
Colorado River
The Colorado River is a spectacular sight to see, meandering for 1,447 miles (2,330 kilometers) with red rocks and canyons framing it on both sides, leading up to the Hoover Dam. The Colorado River is one of the major water sources for California and Nevada, and, not surprisingly, it's a major recreational destination—activities on the river include hiking, biking, rafting, and boating.
The Basics
Many travelers to Las Vegas to experience the Mighty Colorado River by visiting or canoeing the Black Canyon, so-called because of the black volcanic rocks found in the area. The canyons are majestic, red land formations that lead from Colorado toward the Hoover Dam in Nevada. Guided boating and canoeing tours take visitors down the Colorado River as it passes through the Black Canyon. At James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, hiking, rafting, fishing, rock climbing, and swimming are all available. Another bucket list experience well worth the time investment is a whitewater rafting trip through Grand Canyon National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The river is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Remember to wear comfortable clothes suitable for the activities you’re participating in.
- There isn’t always shade on the river, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- River trips and rafting tours to the Colorado River from Las Vegas can last anywhere from three to 15 hours, depending on the option chosen.
How to Get There
There are numerous access points to the Colorado River as it flows through Nevada, but most travelers visit on a guided adventure tour that includes return transportation from Las Vegas.
When to Get There
While there isn’t really a bad time to visit the Colorado River, commercial rafting trips—particularly those through the Grand Canyon—are generally offered from April to October. Depending on where you are along the river, temperatures in June, July, and August can soar above 100°F (38°C).
See the Colorado River from Above and Below
Those looking for a comprehensive Colorado River experience can combine a float trip or boat ride down the river with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour or a walk along the Grand Canyon Skywalk on the West Rim.
Address: USA
From $ 57
Columbus Circle
Columbus Circle, New York City’s only traffic circle, is indeed named for Christopher Columbus. The monument was erected on the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in America. His statue rises tall on a column at the center of the busy street circle. It is the place which all official distances in New York City are measured from.
Aside from its key role in directing New York’s traffic, it stands at the base of Time Warner Center. The glass skyscraper is home to the Time Warner corporation’s headquarters and is one of the city’s best shopping centers. It also contains the Jazz at Lincoln Center and New York’s CNN offices. Central Park is only footsteps away — in fact, the circle was initially designed as a grand entrance to the famous park. Grass, plants, trees, benches, and fountains were added to the circle in 2005, giving it a more park-like appearance itself.
Practical Info
Columbus Circle is situated at the intersection of Eighth Avenue, Broadway, , Central Park West, and Central Park South (West 59th Street.) An entrance to Central Park is nearby. The closest Subway station is 59th Street - Columbus Circle.
Address: Columbus Cir, New York City, New York, USA, USA
From $ 15
Comitán
In a country that attracts tourists from around the world, Comitan, a thriving city in the southern state of Chiapas, proves a popular destination for a local set of travelers. Mexicans looking to get away from the day-to-day find Comitan’s charming colonial architecture, clean, narrow streets, perfect temperatures and close proximity to home ideal for a weekend escape. And increasingly, visitors from other parts of the globe are flocking to this unsung destination in search of a more authentic Mexican experience, too.
The city’s popular central town square comes alive at night, when locals and travelers gather in surrounding streets to watch live music and performers dance to traditional beats. Visitors to Comitan can tuck into plates of traditional or continental cuisine at one of the city’s numerous restaurants, or spend a day exploring nary attractions, like Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello or Zona Arquelogica de Chinkultic. From art museums to outdoors, travelers agree, Comitan is calling.
Practical Info
Comitan is the fourth-largest city in Chiapas and is located near the border of Guatemala.
Address: Comitán, Mexico
From $ 26
Columbia Reef
Columbia Reef is famous for its complex architecture of caves, arches, and coral spires. Here you can find schools of snapper, barracudas, sea turtles, scorpion fish, and even the rare passing nurse shark. With both shallow coral gardens and deep ocean-floor caverns, the reef is accessible to snorkelers and scuba divers alike.
The Basics
Depths rarely exceed 40 feet (12 meters) in the Columbia Shallows, making this portion of the reef ideal for snorkelers, photographers, and novice divers. Columbia Deep, with an impressive drop-off of 80 feet (24 meters) is better suited for experienced divers looking to explore caves and tunnels.
Because of its proximity to Cozumel, Columbia Reef is best explored on a snorkeling or diving tour from the island’s downtown marina. Most excursions visit Columbia Reef along with Palancar Reef and El Cielo Marine Park, and sometimes include hotel pickup and drop-off.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Columbia Reef is a must-see attraction for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water. It’s also a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard to protect your skin from rough coral and jellyfish.
- Evidence of scuba diving certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
- To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife, minimize your motions and let the fish come to you.
How to Get There
Columbia Reef is located off the southern coast of Cozumel, near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. You can get there by guided tour or private charter boat—although the reef may be hard to locate on your own.
When to Get There
You can visit Columbia Reef year-round, but it’s busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Cozumel’s Coral Reefs
Cozumel’s expansive coral reefs are some of the largest in the world. Paradise Reef and Palancar Gardens are ideal spots for novice divers and snorkelers due to their shallow depth, and offer a chance to glimpse sea turtles, colorful fish, towering coral spires, and gently waving sea fans. The Palancar Caves are probably the most famous dive site, with huge brain corals and swim-through tunnels. Palancar Horseshoe, a natural underwater amphitheater made entirely of coral, is another must-see.
Address: Cozumel, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 55
Cola de Caballo
The scenic skyline of Cerro de la Silla (aka Saddle Mountain) in the rugged foothills of Cumbres de Monterrey is one of the main draws to this national park, but Cola de Caballo—also known as Horse Tail waterfall—in another popular stop in this urban escape just outside Monterrey. Located in the town of Villa de Santiago in Nueva Leon, Cola de Caballo looks like the horse tail it’s named for and cascades some 130 feet into a crystal clear swimming hole that has become a favorite among travelers.
Practical Info
Cola de Caballo is located 17 miles northeast of Catemaco. It is accessible by car via a paved road and following the exit to Rio Cuetzalapan Valley. Because some of the route is unpaved it’s best to avoid after heavy rains. Private hiking guides are available for hire for about 100 pesos and can lead travelers safely through steep terrain and uneven paths.
Address: Cola de Caballo, Villa de Santiago, Monterrey, Mexico
Hours: Daily
From $ 64
Columbia River Highway
Oregon’s Columbia River Highway was the first scenic road in America to be designated as a National Historic Landmark. It is particularly noted for its colorful displays of fall foliage and its many waterfalls year-round.
The route allows for access to the Columbia River Gorge, which cuts more than 4,000 feet deep into the Cascade Mountain Range. Rich in both animal and plant life, the area along the road is home to more than 100 rare species, some that only exist in the gorge. Various hiking trails dotted throughout offer access to otherwise hidden waterfalls and views.
The highway was modeled after the scenic roads of Europe and has been long recognized for its excellence in engineering and design. Most of all the road is a path leading into some of the most beautiful scenery in North America. Outside of its wide vistas and expansive overlooks, hiking, biking, fishing, and sailing are all popular activities to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.
Practical Info
The Columbia River Highway is located on I-84, about an hour’s drive from downtown Portland. Fall colors are brightest in mid-October and waterfalls most scenic during Spring. The route begins at exit 17, from the historic town of Troutdale, and runs for 75 miles. It takes 3-5 hours to drive in full.
Address: Columbia River Highway, Oregon, USA, USA
From $ 100
Columbia University
Columbia University is the oldest institution of higher learning in New York, and the fifth oldest in the USA. Fans of history and of architecture will be interested in the university’s historic buildings, which have been highlighted in many feature films. Most notable is Low Memorial Library, which appears in the New York City Register of Historic Places. Built in the Roman classical style, the former library now contains the university’s visitor center and its administration offices.
Just below the library is a large plaza – a popular gathering place for students. Past a promenade (called College Walk) is the south campus where Butler Library, Columbia’s main library, stands. South campus also contains the student center, student residences, classroom buildings, and the Graduate School of Journalism. North of Low Library is Pupin Hall, a national historic landmark due to the atomic research done there by Columbia's scientists. East of Low Library is St. Paul's Chapel, which also appears in New York City’s Register of Historic Places.
The university also has many modern buildings, and visitors can download an audio walking tour of the architecture to their audio devices. The tour is guided by Andrew Dolkart, an architectural historian and a professor of architectural history at Columbia. Starting at the visitors center in Low Library, the tour includes almost two dozen stops at the university’s architectural highlights.
Practical Info
Groups smaller than ten people may feel free to tour the campus on their own. Maps and other materials for self-guided tours are available online and at the university’s visitors center. Visitors with disabilities may request an accessible campus tour (three weeks advance notice is required). The visitors center is open Monday – Friday; 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The only building visitors without a Columbia ID are allowed to enter is Low Library.
Address: 16th St & Broadway, New York City, New York, USA 10027, USA
Hours: Visitor Center open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
From $ 40
Coit Tower
Visitors flock to Coit Tower to take in views of downtown San Francisco, Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and other landmarks. With its perch in Pioneer Park atop Telegraph Hill, the 210-foot-high (64-meter-high) tower, built in 1933, offers some of the best panoramic photo ops in the city.
The Basics
Coit Tower was built with money left to the city by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a philanthropist and firefighter groupie who wanted to beautify her city. Visiting the park at the base of the tower is free and still provides good views of San Francisco Bay, but if you want the ultimate vista, head up the elevator to the summit of the tower for a fee.
First, though, stop to admire the 1930s-era murals in the lobby that depict the history of California. Controversial when they were painted, the frescoes were part of President Roosevelt’s Public Works of Art Project. Some city tours include a drive-by of Coit Tower but most do not stop there, so look for a more specific tour such as a North Beach urban hike if you want time to visit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk—it’s a steep climb to get to the base of the tower from any direction.
- Restrooms are available.
- Tickets for the tower can be purchased in advance if you wish to skip the line.
- Docent-led tours are available on-site for small groups.
How to Get There
Taking public transportation or walking is recommended, as parking is very limited on Telegraph Hill and the only road to the top—Telegraph Hill Boulevard—can get backed up. MUNI bus 39 takes you right to the base of the tower, while the 45 and 30 go to Washington Square in North Beach a few blocks away. For a thigh-burning workout that gives you an up-close look at neighborhood homes, take the lovely Filbert Street Stairs.
When to Get There
Coit Tower can be quite crowded on summer weekends. To avoid the masses, visit early in the morning or at sunset for golden views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and remember that the area at the tower’s base can be accessed even when the tower itself is closed. Coit Tower is particularly popular on the Fourth of July, when the city puts on a fireworks display over the water, and during Fleet Week in October.
The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill
As you walk up to the base of the tower, watch for the local band of parrots who spend much of their time in the trees that surround the park. Made famous by the documentary The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill, the red and green birds are noisy but generally beloved.
Address: Telegraph Hill Boulevard, North Beach, 94133, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
College Football Hall of Fame
The College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta honors the greatest players throughout the history of college football. Their stories and achievements are commemorated here in a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors can learn about exceptional players and the records they broke by exploring the exhibitions in the Hall of Fame. Permanent, etched-glass representations of each Hall of Fame player are on display. There are also 10 augmented reality displays where visitors can view images and video of players and coaches from their favorite school.
More than 750 helmets representing each college football team are on display, as well as larger than life images from 11 conference champions that are updated each season. Visitors can also see historical game-worn uniforms. Other exhibitions explore the dedication, passion, and sacrifice that goes into being a college football player. There are also sections that focus on the social traditions of college football, the bands, cheerleaders, mascots, and tailgating traditions.
Practical Info
The College Football Hall of Fame is located at 250 Marietta St., N.W.
Address: 250 Marietta St., N.W., Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Admission: Adults: $19.99; Children: $16.99
From $ 83
Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove is a bayside village in Miami, recognized as the oldest modern continuously inhabited neighborhood in the city. Originally settled in the 1800s, Coconut Grove is sometimes referred to as “Bohemia on the Bay.” Complete with a pedestrian-friendly village center where visitors can wander galleries, go shopping or enjoy lunch at a quaint sidewalk café. There are some recognizable chain restaurants and open-air malls but also college bars, as students from nearby Florida International University and the University of Miami flock to the area, especially as the sun goes down. Known locally as “the Grove,” its bay-front location also showcases a number of various parks.
Village West, a noted sub-area, is the modern-day historic home of Bahamian and African-American descendants of Coconut Grove’s earliest settlers. There is evidence that settlers from the Bahamas came via Key West in order to work at the Peacock Inn, the first hotel in the area, which was originally called the Bay View Inn.
Coconut Grove has been a popular location for the filming of various television series and movies, including Meet the Fockers, Marley & Me and Burt Reynolds’ 1985 Stick. Shows like Dexter, CSI: Miami and The First 48 have been filmed in the village as well. If you remember George Michael’s “Careless Whisper” video, the shot of him looking out to sea from a hotel balcony was shot in Coconut Grove too. The village’s popularity extends not only to set locations, but also to some noted celebrities. Sylvester Stallone and Madonna both called the village home for a few years, and professional athletes like the NFL‘s Frank Gore and the NBA’s LeBron James are among Coconut Grove’s residents as well.
Practical Info
Coconut Grove is bordered by North Prospect Drive to the south, LeJeune Road to the west, South Dixie Highway (US 1) and Rickenbacker Causeway to the north, and Biscayne Bay to the east. There is an information kiosk located on Grand Avenue, steps away from CocoWalk.
Address: Miami, Florida, USA
From $ 29
Columbia River Maritime Museum
Located in Astoria, near the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia, the Columbia River Maritime Museum is well-known for its excellent collection of maritime artifacts.
The museum opened in 1963, and was moved into its current home in 1982 as the collection expanded. The purpose-built structure sits – appropriately – right on the waterfront, which means the collection can include ships that are still in the water. A renovation in 2001-2002 expanded the space further, and the museum now includes interactive exhibits.
The collection includes a 1950s lightship (essentially a floating lighthouse), two U.S. Coast Guard motor lifeboats, and the bridge of a World War II warship. There are exhibits about maritime weaponry, clothing, figureheads, and gear. Interactive exhibits give visitors a chance to try their hand at piloting a tugboat and joining a Coast Guard rescue on the Columbia River.
Practical Info
The Columbia River Maritime Museum is on Marine Drive in Astoria and is open daily from 9:30am-5:00pm. Adult tickets are $12, seniors are $10, and children ages 6-17 are $5. There's a 3D film you can see at the museum, for which admission is an extra $5 per person.
Address: 1792 Marine Drive, Astoria, Oregon, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30am-5pm
Admission: $12
From $ 100
Colorado State Capitol Building
Reminiscent of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., the Colorado State Capitol Building sitting high atop Denver is not just a 24 karat gold-domed meeting place for the Colorado General Assembly, but also an homage to the American governmental process, as well as a truly beautiful archaeological wonder.
Built a mile high above sea level, as denoted by the markings inscribed upon its steps, the Colorado State Capital Building has incredible views of downtown Denver, and a history that tells of the days of the Gold Rush and the incredible use of the beautiful Colorado Rose Onyx used to build the interior of the capitol and the designs of dignitaries engraved therein. It is said that the entire known supply of this rare marble was exhausted in making of the Colorado State Capitol.
Tours will tell of early Colorado history, the Capitol construction, the origin of several stained glass windows, the Woman’s Gold Tapestry, and a stop outside the State and House Representative chambers.
Practical Info
Tours are generally available weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and are free of charge.
Address: 200 East Colfax Avenue, Denver 80203, USA
Hours: Weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m
From $ 15
CoCo Bongo
CoCo Bongo in Cancun isn’t your typical nightclub. For starters, there’s no traditional dance floor. Instead, the popular venue hosts energetic performances including acrobats, bands, and musical impersonators who belt out tunes by artists ranging from Rihanna to Elvis. This lively spot is a must-visit for those looking for a fun night out in Cancun but don’t want to simply dance to DJs.
The Basics
This favorite nightlife franchise boasts three locations in the Caribbean—Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Punta Cana. Each location features a huge video screen and seating on multiple levels for viewing the productions, along with festive touches like soap bubbles, balloons, confetti, and streamers. You’ll find plenty of skip-the-line booking options, and some even include an open bar for groups. This can be advantageous to avoid long lines at the door and bar during busy times.
Things to Know Before You Go
- CoCo Bongo isn’t a traditional nightclub with a DJ, but you’ll find those nearby if you’re planning on a club crawl.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll likely be standing most of the night.
- The venue can become extremely crowded, especially during peak times.
How to Get There
Located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, one block from the Caribbean Sea, CoCo Bongo is within walking distance from most accommodations. Taxis are also readily available in the area and bar-hopping tours typically include the venue on their routes. Keep in mind that most skip-the-line ticket options don’t include transportation.
When to Get There
On the weekends and during high season (from December to April), lines to get into CoCo Bongo can be long. If you want to avoid the crowds, stop by on a weeknight. The venue opens at 10pm and closes at 4am, but the shows end at 2am; you can stay and dance until closing, however. Some tickets will give you access until 3:30am.
Nearby Carlos'n Charlie's and Señor Frog's
Two of Cancun’s other hot nightclubs, Carlos'n Charlie's and Señor Frog's, offer similar VIP service packages with open bar and skip-the-line access, and are located right next door to CoCo Bongo. These spots don’t offer the range of performances like CoCo Bongo, but visitors can still expect plenty of fun party vibes with a spring break–style atmosphere and funky cocktails.
Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.5 #30, Zona Hotelera, Cancún, QROO 77500, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 70
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge, one of the great natural treasures of the Pacific Northwest with its many dramatic waterfalls, channels the mighty Columbia River through the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, marking much of the border between Oregon and Washington. The gorge figures in early United States history, as it was here that the Lewis and Clark expedition completed its final stretch in 1805. Today the area is popular with hikers, windsurfers, and wine lovers.
The Basics
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is an accessible day trip from Portland. Join a hiking or biking tour and you'll be guided to the best trails. Other tours visit wineries or include a cruise on the river. Of the many waterfalls to see, Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Wahkeena Falls top the list.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear sturdy shoes for any hiking or biking tours, as trails may be steep or slippery.
- Bring layers even in summer, as it can be windy year–round, and trail temperatures are often lower than those in the city.
- During the busy summer season, cars heading to the parking area at Multnomah Falls can back up onto the Columbia River Highway. Tour vans have reserved parking, avoiding the traffic hassle.
- Trails are not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, but there is some wheelchair accessibility at Multnomah Falls.
How to Get to the Columbia River Gorge
The Gorge runs from Troutdale to Biggs on the Oregon side of the Oregon–Washington border and from Vancouver to Maryhill on the Washington side, starting about 16 miles (25.7 km) from downtown Portland. The easiest way to visit the gorge is by car or on a tour. There are several points of interest not far from I–84, the main highway running along the Oregon side of the gorge, but the older and meandering Columbia River Highway boasts more scenic views.
When to Get There
The summer months, especially July and August, offer the best visibility. The gorge can be foggy and gray in winter, as well as some of fall and spring. Winery tasting rooms are open year–round, but the fall harvest season is a popular time to visit the orchards, vineyards, and wineries. With the right clothing and gear, hikers and windsurfers can get out in almost any weather.
Where to Find the Best Views in the Columbia River Gorge
Vista House, which overlooks the gorge at Crown Point near Portland, provides brilliant views in both directions on clear days, and the nearby Bonneville Dam showcases the power of the river, with a fish-viewing window to see spawning in autumn. On the Washington side, the Maryhill Stonehenge monument, a replica of the landmark in England, makes for an interesting stop.
Address: Hood River, Oregon 97031, USA
From $ 59
Coconino National Forest
The towns of Flagstaff and Sedona both sit within the Coconino National Forest, a 1.9-million acre area of protected land fringed by four additional national forests. Many of the natural attractions around Flagstaff can be found within Coconino National Forest, such as the San Francisco Peaks—including the 12,600-foot Humphreys Peak—and the Sunset Crater National Monument. Visitors can find ample outdoor adventures within the forest, from fishing and swimming holes along Wet Beaver Creek to hiking and biking on red rock trails like those around Carroll Canyon.
Practical Info
The headquarters of the national forest can be found in Flagstaff, and it’s open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with rangers on hand to answers question about things to do with the park. Free car maps are available at any of the forest offices, while trail maps cost $10.
Address: 1824 S. Thompson St., Flagstaff, Arizona, USA 86001, USA
Hours: The National Forest Headquarters in Flagstaff is open weekdays 8am-4pm.
From $ 170
Comedy Store
Since the early 1970s, the Comedy Store has been famous for launching the careers of some of the biggest stars in stand-up comedy. Mitzi Shore (mother of comedian Pauly) bought the club from her ex-husband Sammy in 1973, turning it into a multi-room venue that includes a 450-seat Main Room for headliners, and the Belly Room, a small upstairs space that was once dedicated to emerging female comics – like Whoopi Goldberg.
Paid regulars at the club include (quite possibly) lesser-known acts like Korean-American comic Bobby Lee, the twin Sklar Brothers, and TV-game-show host Joe Rogan, as well as stars like Sarah Silverman, Louis C.K., Marc Maron, Russell Brand, Craig Ferguson, Chelsea Handler and Jay Leno.
Show ticket prices tend to be about $10. Admission is free before 7pm, but there is a two-drink minimum for all events and performance; per the club’s liquor license, only people 21 and over can attend shows here. Street parking near and on Sunset Boulevard is extremely limited, but valet parking is available at the club.
Paid regulars at the club include (quite possibly) lesser-known acts like Korean-American comic Bobby Lee, the twin Sklar Brothers, and TV-game-show host Joe Rogan, as well as stars like Sarah Silverman, Louis C.K., Marc Maron, Russell Brand, Craig Ferguson, Chelsea Handler and Jay Leno.
Show ticket prices tend to be about $10. Admission is free before 7pm, but there is a two-drink minimum for all events and performance; per the club’s liquor license, only people 21 and over can attend shows here. Street parking near and on Sunset Boulevard is extremely limited, but valet parking is available at the club.
Practical Info:
The best route to take by transit: Bus: 2/302.
Address: 8433 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069, USA
Hours: Daily: 7pm - 2am.
Admission: Prices vary per event
From $ 89