Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
ShowingFilter 761-780 of 2596 listings.
Grant Park
Proudly referred to as Chicago's "front yard," Grant Park is home to three world-class museums - the Art Institute, the Field Museum of Natural History, and the Shedd Aquarium - as well as the Museum Campus, a 1995 transformation of paved areas into beautiful greenspace. It’s also among the city's loveliest and most prominent parks.
Centered between the sparkling blue waters of Lake Michigan to the east and Chicago’s stunning skyline to the west, Grant Park is a lovely open space with walking paths, elm trees, and formal rose gardens.Grant Park's centerpiece is the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, built in 1927 to provide a monumental focal point while protecting the park's breathtaking lakefront views.
Throughout the summer, Grant Park is also the site of many of the city’s largest outdoor events, including the annual Taste of Chicago, the Lollapalooza music festival, and Chicago Jazz Festival.
Practical Info
Grant Park is located on the east side of Michigan, in the Loop. The park is easily accessible via bus and El trains. The park is north of the Field Museum of Natural History, John G. Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium. Across Michigan are plenty of restaurants, shops, and other Loop attractions.
Address: 337 E. Randolph Street, Chicago 60601, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 35
Gribble House
There are ghosts on the loose in Downtown Savannah, and the Gribble House is the epicenter of paranormal experience. Though only a warehouse stands here today, this ground was where three women lost their lives in a gruesome, 1909 axe attack that’s been called “the most diabolical crime in the history of Savannah.” Not everyone believes that the man arrested was the one who committed the crime, and it’s likely that the only people who know the truth are the famous Gribble House ghosts. On a tour of this haunted and infamous site, grab a flashlight and explore the darkness of where the three gruesome murders took place. Feel the hairs on the back of your neck suddenly stand on end, and talk or ask questions to a spooky “ghost box” that can silence the biggest of critics. By the time you emerge from this haunted house in the middle of downtown Savannah, there’s a good chance that you could walk away with a firm belief in ghosts.
Practical Info
Investigations of the Gribble House are 90 minutes long, and take place at 8pm every day of the week. On Friday and Saturday, a second tour is added at 10:30pm, and there’s a minimum age of 16 years old to participate in the ghost hunting experience.
Address: 234 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, Georgia, USA
Admission: Adults: $35
From $ 31
Greystone Mansion and Park
Built in 1928 as the lavish wedding present from oil tycoon Edward Doheny to his son Edward “Ned” Doheny, Jr. and his wife Lucy, this 55-room, 16-acre Tudor estate was, at the time, the most expensive home in California. Just five months after the couple moved in, in early 1929, Ned was tragically shot to death in the mansion, killed by a distraught friend who in turn killed himself. Lucy continued living in the home until 1955, but Ned’s ghost is still thought to roam the property.
Ned’s murder was often rumored to be a ripple effect of the Teapot Dome Scandal, a rate-fixing bribe between Albert Fall, the Harding Administration’s Secretary of the Interior and, among others, Doheny, Sr.’s company, Pan American Petroleum, over oil reserves in California; when exposed, this shocking deal resulted in Fall’s imprisonment and the public disgrace of Doheny, Sr.
However, Ned’s murderer, Hugh Plunkett, was his own personal aide and increasingly close confidante; just prior to the murder, Plunkett had (reportedly) been exhibiting signs of a nervous disorder and had filed for divorce from his wife. Gossiped about as a cover-up of either Lucy’s crime or a homosexual affair, the facts surrounding Ned’s death were never fully publicized, as his father’s fortune was enough to keep the most lurid details out of the papers.
Purchased by the City of Beverly Hills in the 1960s (in order to save it from demolition by commercial real estate developers) and later added to the National Register of Historic Places, the grounds of Greystone have been designated as a public park since 1971. Always facing a financial deficit, these grounds host a variety of annual fundraising events, such as the Beverly Hills Flower and Garden Festival and a vintage automobile show called the Concours d’Elegance.
On weekends, the mansion’s grounds are often closed for special events. If you’re planning a weekend visit, call ahead to (310) 285-6830 to avoid disappointment.
Ned’s murder was often rumored to be a ripple effect of the Teapot Dome Scandal, a rate-fixing bribe between Albert Fall, the Harding Administration’s Secretary of the Interior and, among others, Doheny, Sr.’s company, Pan American Petroleum, over oil reserves in California; when exposed, this shocking deal resulted in Fall’s imprisonment and the public disgrace of Doheny, Sr.
However, Ned’s murderer, Hugh Plunkett, was his own personal aide and increasingly close confidante; just prior to the murder, Plunkett had (reportedly) been exhibiting signs of a nervous disorder and had filed for divorce from his wife. Gossiped about as a cover-up of either Lucy’s crime or a homosexual affair, the facts surrounding Ned’s death were never fully publicized, as his father’s fortune was enough to keep the most lurid details out of the papers.
Purchased by the City of Beverly Hills in the 1960s (in order to save it from demolition by commercial real estate developers) and later added to the National Register of Historic Places, the grounds of Greystone have been designated as a public park since 1971. Always facing a financial deficit, these grounds host a variety of annual fundraising events, such as the Beverly Hills Flower and Garden Festival and a vintage automobile show called the Concours d’Elegance.
On weekends, the mansion’s grounds are often closed for special events. If you’re planning a weekend visit, call ahead to (310) 285-6830 to avoid disappointment.
Address: 905 Loma Vista Drive, Beverly Hills 90210, USA
Hours: Sun-Mon 9am-5pm
From $ 55
Green Gables Heritage Place
A must-see for fans of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables books, this farmhouse once belonged to Montgomery’s relatives and served as the inspiration for the “Cuthbert farm” in her novels. Today the whitewashed dwelling is furnished as described in the books, with multimedia exhibits covering Montgomery’s life and works.
The Basics
Walk in the footsteps of Anne, Montgomery’s flame-haired protagonist, as you explore the 19th-century Green Gables Heritage Place and peruse its multimedia exhibits. For an in-depth experience of the Green Gables Shore region in Prince Edward Island National Park, visit on a guided tour from Charlottetown to see the farmhouse, the area’s coastal scenery, and local jam purveyor Prince Edward Island Preserve Company. You can also explore the area around Green Gables to see notable sites from the books including Lovers Lane, the Haunted Wood, and Balsam Hollow.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Green Gables house is a must-see for literature aficionados and history buffs.
- The on-site Butter Churn Café serves coffee, baked goods, local ice cream, and other snacks.
- Visitor facilities also include a gift shop and restrooms.
- Services at Green Gables are available in both English and French; printed guides are also available in Japanese.
- All buildings at Green Gables Heritage Place, including the first floor of the house, are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Green Gables Heritage Place is located in Cavendish on the north coast of Prince Edward Island (PEI), roughly a 40-minute drive from Charlottetown. The easiest way to get there is by road, and free parking is available on site.
When to Get There
The site is open daily from May through October, and is busiest during July and August. To avoid summer crowds, visit before 11am or after 3pm. In summer, you can see the popular musical version of L.M. Montgomery’s novel, which runs every year at the Charlottetown Festival.
Prince Edward Island National Park
Canada’s Prince Edward Island National Park is a popular summer destination, with sandy beaches, red cliffs, and wind-sculpted dunes. Along the coast, bird lovers can spot blue heron and warblers, while farther inland hikers can trek through woodlands full of red fox and deer.
Address: 8619 Route 6, Cavendish (west of Route 13), Cavendish, PEI, Canada
Hours: Vary
Admission: Adults: C$7.80
From $ 56
Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the largest city parks in North America, covering a vast 4,310 acres (1,744 hectares). An oasis in the urban sprawl of Los Angeles, this green space caters to visitors of all ages and interests with attractions such as the Los Angeles City Zoo, the Griffith Observatory, and the iconic Hollywood sign.
The Basics
Griffith Park is an ideal escape from LA’s bustling city center. Visitors can rent bicycles and tour the park on two wheels, join a guided hike or horseback ride up to the Hollywood sign, or explore a multitude of museums, golf courses, tennis courts, and hiking trails. Budding astronomers can visit the landmark Griffith Observatory, which boasts rooftop telescopes plus the world’s most advanced star projector, while kids love the Los Angeles Zoo and its 250 animal species. Don’t miss the Travel Town Museum, which features dozens of vintage railcars and locomotives; the Museum of the American West, where kids can pan for gold and explore a stagecoach; and the Griffith Park merry-go-round with its carved and colorfully painted horses. If you’re short on time, visit the park on a Los Angeles day tour to also see city highlights such as Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
- Pack a lunch to enjoy the park’s many scenic picnic areas.
- Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times.
- A trip to the observatory is ideal for visitors with limited mobility thanks to its plentiful parking, expansive views, and relatively flat ground.
How to Get There
Griffith Park is located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, in LA’s Los Feliz neighborhood. Access to the park is easiest by car, and parking is free. For information and maps, stop by the Griffith Park Ranger Station at Crystal Springs Drive. On weekends, holidays, and during summer, the park’s higher elevations can be congested with heavy traffic, so it’s best to use the DASH Observatory Shuttle to access Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign.
When to Get There
Griffith Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Opening hours for attractions within the park vary. Summer is LA’s busiest season, but spring and autumn visitors can benefit from decreased smog levels and fewer crowds. January and February can be rainy, so pack an umbrella if visiting in winter.
Movies Filmed in Griffith Park
Being in La La Land, it’s no surprise that Griffith Park stars in more than a few films and TV shows. James Dean and his classmates take a trip to the Griffith Observatory in Rebel Without a Cause, and the park’s Bronson Caves were featured in the 1960s TV shows Batman and Star Trek. Ron Burgundy of Anchorman fame fights bears in the Los Angeles Zoo, Conrad Birdie serenades Ann-Margret at the Greek Theater in the classic musical Bye Bye Birdie, and the tunnel to Toontown in Who Framed Roger Rabbit? leads to the Griffith Observatory.
Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles 90027, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Park admission is free; fees may apply to attractions inside the park
From $ 30
Great Salt Lake
Utah’s Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and the largest natural lake in North America west of the Mississippi, is the setting for some of the state’s best outdoor recreational opportunities; sailors and kayakers ply the waters, while sunbathers bask on sandy beaches and swimmers float in the high-saline waters.
The Basics
Seeing the Great Salt Lake typically means visiting one of two Utah state parks, Antelope Island State Park or Great Salt Lake State Park. Guided tours of the vast inland sea give visitors an opportunity to see the Great Salt Lake State Marina, catch brine shrimp (aka sea monkeys) in the salty water, swim in the lake, and spot some of the 250 species of nesting and migratory birds that spend part of the year in this wetlands habitat. Hikers and mountain bikers head to wildlife-rich Antelope Island or the lake’s long shoreline. At 75 miles (120 kilometers) long and 35 miles (56 kilometers) wide, the lake is all that remains of Lake Bonneville, an ice age lake that covered much of the region some 30,000 years ago.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Great Salt Lake is a must-see for outdoors enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
- Bring insect repellent plus sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water; the climate here can be hot and dry.
- The lake is quite shallow; the maximum depth is 35 feet (11 meters). Swimming is allowed but be prepared for flies, lots of brine shrimp, and an odor caused by the high salinity of the water.
How to Get There
The Great Salt Lake sits northwest of Salt Lake City. Exits on interstate 80 and 15 will take you there. Most visitors explore the various points of interest around the lake by car. A causeway (via Interstate 15 to State Route 127) gives automobile access to Antelope Island.
When to Get There
There’s no bad time to visit the Great Salt Lake—timing largely depends on what you want to do. Swimmers and sunbathers should visit during the warm summer months when the lake offers a refreshing break from the heat.
Bonneville Salt Flats
To get a sense of how big the Great Salt Lake was when it was a vast inland sea, pay a visit to the Bonneville Salt Flats just outside of Salt Lake City. The land here is among the flattest places on the planet, stretching across 30,000 barren acres (12,140 hectares).
Address: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
From $ 42
Gringo Gulch
Antique, charming, historic—all of these have been used to describe this quaint little neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Known as the site where the first settlers decided to live, Gringo Gulch offers spectacular views of downtown Puerto Vallarta and the Rio Cuale. A steep, staircase-slung hillside dotted with white-washed villas, this is one of the most romantic and captivating neighborhoods in this 500-year-old town, and it also served as the site of Richard Burton’s film Night of the Iguana, starring Elizabeth Taylor. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this neighborhood, see its numerous beautiful mansions and experience some of the best views in Puerto Vallarta.
Practical Info
Gringo Gulch was named after the affluent North Americans who settled there in the early 1960s. To get there, head up the stone-lined pathway uphill, north of the Rio Cuale bridge. Once you’re at the corner of Zaragoza and Miramar, you’ve reached the beginning of Gringo Gulch.
Address: Zaragoza and Miramar, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 30
Green Flash Brewing Company
Green Flash, now one of the largest breweries in San Diego’s burgeoning craft beer scene, has always focused on producing strong IPAs. From their first West Coast IPA to the variety of brews available today, intense flavors and high hops have been part of their trademark. Many of their beers are award-winning, taking top honors in national and international beer tastings.
Visitors to the original brewery get the chance to taste their beers as well as have a behind-the-scenes look at its production. After learning about the brewing process, most will agree it is essential to be able to taste the final product. With dozens of beers on tap there are classics as well as seasonal offerings that taste great alone or pair well with food. There’s a beer garden and a rotating food truck beside the brewery for additional food and merriment.
Practical Info
Green Flash Brewing is located in the Mira Mesa neighborhood of San Diego. They hold one hour tours of the brewing facilities that cost $6.50 and include four tastings of their beers.
Address: 6550 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, California, USA
Hours: Tues-Thurs from 3–9pm, Fri-Sun from 12-9pm
From $ 85
Grgich Hills Estate
Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Grgich Hills Estate is a family-oriented winery committed to natural wine growing and sustainability with a history of excellence.
Founder and winemaker Mike Grgich is nearly as famous as his wines, thanks to his 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris Tasting – thus firmly putting Napa on the map as a wine-making region to contend with (and inspiring the movie Bottle Shock). The legend himself still tours the picturesque landscape daily, so it is possible to run into the kind and spritely gentleman while on a tour of this fabulous estate.
Practical Info
Grgich Hills Estate is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm Tours and tastings are available, as is the signature Grape Stomping event come harvest. Grgich Hills Estate is a stop on the Napa Valley Wine Train tour.
Address: 1829 St. Helena Hwy., Rutherford, CA 94573, USA
Hours: Daily 9:30am-4:30pm
From $ 0
Grandview Point
Located in the southernmost point on the Grand Canyon’s south rim, Grandview Point is accessible via a one-mile side road off of East Rim Drive. Travelers agree the panoramic views from this famous vista are some of the park’s most impressive. Easy hiking trails wind through narrow ridges and well-preserved nature, giving travelers the opportunity to stretch their legs while driving the popular pass along Highway 64. But it’s the epic views and scenic landscape that make Grandview Point a quintessential Grand Canyon stop.
Practical Info
Grandview Point is half way between Desert View and Grand Canyon Village off of Highway 64. For the best photos, wander down Grandview Trail to avoid the trees at the official overlook.
Address: Coconino, AZ, USA
From $ 108
Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife
Situated on Grouse Mountain, this wildlife sanctuary has a pair of very famous residents: two orphaned grizzly bears named Grinder and Coola. Additionally, the refuge also houses birds of prey, including resident owls, plus a hummingbird feeding station, where researchers monitor the tiny feathered fliers in spring.
The Basics
You’ll need an admission ticket to Grouse Mountain; you can buy one in advance that includes round-trip shuttle transportation from downtown Vancouver, the Skyride aerial tram, the Peak Chairlift (summer only), and a 45-minute lumberjack show, as well as access to the wildlife refuge, where ranger talks are held regularly in summer. For a special experience, book Breakfast with the Bears, which includes early access to the refuge, a ranger talk, and breakfast at the Grizzly Lookout Cafe.
The refuge can also be visited as part of North Shore day tours from Vancouver, which typically combine Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife is a must for wildlife enthusiasts.
- There are dining options at the mountain; the yurt-style Grizzly Lookout Cafe offers the best views of the grizzly bear habitat.
- The Skyride is accessible to wheelchair users, as is the refuge, which can be accessed via paved pathways.
How to Get There
Grouse Mountain Refuge for Endangered Wildlife is located in North Vancouver, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Shuttle buses, free with a Grouse Mountain admission ticket, run from Canada Place in summer.
When to Get There
The best time to visit is between May and October when the bears are usually out of their den, and when rangers give talks. In winter, the bears go into hibernation and can’t be observed in-person, though you can watch them slumbering via a live webcam.
What to Do on Grouse Mountain
Known as the Peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is an outdoor playground for nature-loving urbanites. Fit visitors can attempt the steep hike up the Grouse Grind, where they can check out all the mountain facilities, before taking the Skyride back down. In addition to lumberjack shows and the refuge, Grouse Mountain offers ziplining in summer and skiing and snowboarding in winter.
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, Vancouver, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 45
Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village is one of the most charming residential neighborhoods in New York City. The quarter's reputation for the bohemian persists, but these days only the affluent can afford to live in these sought-after leafy streets.
Set on the lower west side of Manhattan, tree-lined Greenwich Village is home to low-rise townhouses, Italian cafes, restaurants and narrow, angled streets far removed from New York City's ordered grid plan. For visitors, this is walking territory par excellence. If you're pining for more greenery, the lawns, street entertainers and dog-walking areas of Washington Square Park run off W 4th Street. Drop in for a coffee at beatnik-era Le Figaro, browse the vinyl at Bleecker Bob's Records or watch the local kids play basketball at the outdoor courts.
Practical Info
Greenwich Village is bordered by Broadway, 14th Street, Houston Street and the Hudson River. Other streets to visit include Bleecker and Christopher streets, and neighbors include the East Village, Chelsea and SoHo. The nearest subway stops are W 4th Street, 8th Street and 9th Street.
Address: Bleecker Street, New York City 10012, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Ground Zero Museum Workshop
The tiny but jam-packed Ground Zero Museum Workshop explains what it felt like to be in the middle of the aftermath of the tragic September 11 terrorist attacks in New York City. Visitors can wander the rooms to see more than 100 exhibits, including walls covered in rare photos, artifacts, and inspiring tales of first responders, New York City Fire Department firefighters, police officers, and other USA heroes who participated in recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site. Video and audio stories supplement the photographs taken by museum founder Gary Marlon Suson, who spent seven months as the only official FDNY photographer allowed to document the recovery period at Ground Zero.
The Basics
Admission includes a guided, interactive Ground Zero Museum Workshop tour, as well as an audio guide explaining the work it took to rebuild Lower Manhattan. Tours begin with a short video followed by a tour of the artifacts with guided explanations of the stories behind many of the photographs on display.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Museum workshop tickets must be booked in advance, as only 28 guests can be accommodated per tour.
- Considered non-graphic with a focus on recovery efforts rather than the attacks themselves, the museum is kid-friendly, welcoming children as young as 4.
- The museum's self-guided audio tours are available in four languages.
- Many travelers choose to visit this site before heading to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Note that the two are different and separate.
How to Get There
The Ground Zero Museum Workshop is located at 420 West 14th Street in the Meatpacking District near Chelsea Market, 2.3 miles (3.7 kilometers) north of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. The site is accessible via ACE trains and by subway to 14th Street and 8th Avenue.
When to Get There
The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 3pm, with 1- to 2-hour museum workshop tours led by a tour guide starting at 11am, noon, 1pm, and 1:30pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Artifacts at the Ground Zero Museum Workshop
Built under the premise that education leads to healing, the museum’s experiential galleries include artifacts—including the must-see piece of the first plane to hit the World Trade Center towers—that visitors are welcome to touch. Also on display is the largest piece of window glass from the twin towers, a frozen clock that still displays the time of the attacks, and a charred bible page. The artifacts were collected by official photographer Suson during his work at Ground Zero or donated to the museum by family members of victims and others.
Address: 420 West 14th Street, New York City, New York 10048, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Gorgeous blue mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and a prime location within driving distance of the Eastern Seaboard make Great Smoky Mountains National Park the most visited national park in the United States. Come to camp, hike, and explore for an adventure-filled vacation, or stay and enjoy a mountain retreat away from it all.
The Basics
From chasing waterfalls to sleeping under the stars, Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers plenty of activities that please nature lovers. Take a guided hiking tour to top waterfalls and vista points, get onboard a white-water rafting trip on the Pigeon River, or learn about the area’s early settler culture on a historical Smoky Mountains tour. Or, take it easy and road trip the 400 miles (640 kilometers) of scenic drives through forests, meadows, and mountains. Popular park landmarks include Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap, and Laurel Falls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hiking trails range from easy to difficult; plan accordingly.
- Multi-day hikes through the Great Smoky Mountains and backcountry camping are also popular.
- This is a kid-friendly location that’s ideal for families.
- Park entrance is free.
How to Get There
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. Though there are several entrances, the two most popular are the Sugarlands entrance in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the Oconaluftee entrance in Cherokee, North Carolina. Many visitors also choose to stay in Pigeon Forge, roughly 20 minutes from the park.
When to Get There
There are always parts of the park that are open to visitors 24 hours a day, though some areas are closed during the winter months. Visit during the fall for stunning fall foliage, or spring and summer for the nicest hiking weather.
The Appalachian Trail
The popular Appalachian Trail runs through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Though the total hike covers 2,180 miles (3,500 kilometers) from Georgia to Maine, Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains 71 miles, making for a memorable backcountry camping trip.
Address: Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA
From $ 27
Grateful Dead House
On a quiet street in the Haight district of San Francisco, this purple painted Victorian house stands as the former dwelling of the band Grateful Dead. Street art depicting guitarist Jerry Garcia can be found on the sidewalks in front of the house. The timing was such that the band lived there from 1965-68, including during the famed “Summer of Love” in 1967. San Francisco was the center of the “flower power” hippie movement, and the Haight became known for its Bohemian lifestyle and the birth of several new musical genres.
All five members of the rock band lived in the house, which became known after the drug raid in 1967 for the possession of marijuana. It is claimed that it was in this house that the Grateful Dead’s distinctive musical style was born, as well as its naming by Jerry Garcia. Fans of the band, or “Deadheads,” can often be found making a pilgrimage to pay their respects to the musicians.
Practical Info
The house is located at 710 Ashbury Street in the famous Haight-Ashbury district in San Francisco. It is a private residence and only the exterior can be viewed.
Address: 710 Ashbury Street, San Francisco, California, USA 94117, USA
From $ 48
Greenville
At an elevation of nearly 1,000 feet, Greenville sits on the front doorstep of the Appalachian plateau. Within a 45-minute drive from town, visitors can be flying through the trees on a zipline and splashing through Class III rapids, or kayaking to waterfalls that spill directly into nearby Lake Jocassee. The convenient proximity to adventure, however, isn’t Greenville’s only perk; the city itself has recently emerged as a burgeoning Southern hub, where shopping, dining, and local art all thrive in Greenville’s downtown. Take a stroll or ride a bike on the city’s Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 19-mile, multi-use trail that passes the waterfalls of Greenville’s Falls Park and the iconic Liberty suspension bridge. Escape to the hills of Caesars Head State Park for a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and return for an evening of perusing the shops and restaurants of tree-lined Main Street. Though this upstate town has endured its share of economic unrest, it’s now in the midst of a healthy revival where cycling, shopping, dining, and art are welcome staples of a new economy and new, much improved Greenville.
Practical Info
Greenville is located under two hours from both Charlotte and Atlanta. Asheville, North Carolina is one hour north, and Charleston is three hours south. An added benefit to travelers on a road trip is that South Carolina has some of the cheapest fuel prices in the nation.
Address: Greenville, South Carolina, USA
From $ 60
Grouse Mountain
The summit of Grouse Mountain features some of the best views in all of British Columbia—from Vancouver’s downtown towers to the green expanse of Stanley Park and the entirety of Fraser Valley. Visitors can ride the Skyride aerial tram or hike up to the 3,642-foot (1,110-meter) peak for panoramic vistas and a variety of outdoor activities.
The Basics
There are several ways to access Grouse Mountain with a tour guide. Whether you opt for a small-group, private, or luxury tour, or simply buy an admission ticket to explore on your own, booking in advance is recommended. Grouse is a veritable outdoor playground, with everything from a wind tunnel, a glass-pod observation area, and a theater to ziplining, paragliding, disc golf, and skiing and ice skating as the seasons permit. The 1.8-mile (2.8-kilometer) Grouse Grind hiking trail runs up the face of the mountain, and is popular with locals and visitors alike.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Grouse Mountain is family-friendly, with special events for kids.
- Local wildlife such as bears, wolves, owls, and other birds are common sights.
- The Grouse Grind is a fairly difficult, steep hike and includes 2,830 steps. The trail goes only one way (up!), so be prepared with sturdy shoes and water, and check ahead for weather-related trail closures.
- Most activities are included in the price of admission.
How to Get There
Grouse Mountain is located in North Vancouver, across the Burrard Inlet and Vancouver Harbour from downtown. To get there by car, take Highway 99 north across the Lions Gate Bridge, exit in North Vancouver to Marine Drive, then turn left up Capilano Road. A complimentary shuttle runs from downtown Vancouver, as does the SeaBus and bus No. 236. Once there, you can ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride or hike the Grouse Grind to the summit.
When to Get There
The mountain is open year-round and the park is open daily from 9am to 10pm, with seasonal availability for different activities. In summer the mountain park offers lumberjack shows, alpine hiking trails, and a grizzly bear and endangered animal refuge. During winter there are 26 ski and snowboard runs, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and lots of festive fun for the holidays, including night skiing. The Grouse Grind is generally open only during daylight hours, between May and October. On clear days, it’s possible to see across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island from the summit.
Into the Mountains
Grouse Mountain is part of the North Shore Mountains. Outside of summiting the mountain, the nearby Lions Gate Bridge is another place to take in the surrounding views. For adrenaline seekers, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers even more mountain escapades with its canopy walkway above the trees and a 300-foot (91-meter) Cliffwalk of suspended footpaths. All three are a short driving distance from one another and make for an adventurous day in the mountains.
Address: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, Vancouver, Canada
Hours: Daily 9am–10pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Grevin Wax Museum (Musee Grevin)
Located in Montreal’s Eaton Centre, the Grévin Wax Museum (Musée Grévin) features 120 lifelike figures with a focus on Hollywood stars, Canadian celebrities, and world icons, from Tom Hanks to Celine Dion. With eight themed rooms, plenty of photo opportunities, and an on-site café, the museum is a popular choice for families.
The Basics
Visits to the Grévin Wax Museum Montreal are self-guided, which allows visitors to explore and take photos at their own pace. The museum has eight themed rooms, including Belmont Park, a 1920s-inspired room; The Ballroom, packed with former and current A-list celebrities; Sports Temple, a showcase of Canada’s most iconic hockey players; and Behind the Scenes, which offers an inside look at wax-figure construction. Audio tours are available for a small fee.
If you plan on sightseeing in Montreal, you can save money with Tourisme Montréal’s attractions pass, which grants access to the wax museum in addition to a range of city highlights, including the Montreal Biodome and Saint Joseph’s Oratory.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Grévin Wax Museum is a must for families.
- Exhibit information is written in both English and French.
- Buy an admission ticket online in advance to receive a discount and breeze past the ticket booth.
- Café Grévin, located just outside the museum, offers drinks, pastries, and seasonal entrées.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers free Wi-Fi.
- Check the museum’s website for maintenance and holiday closures.
How to Get There
Located in Downtown Montreal on the fifth floor of the Eaton Centre, the Grévin Wax Museum is easily accessible via public transit. The nearest stops are McGill station on bus 125, bus 15, and the metro’s green line 1, or Robert-Bourassa and Saint Catherine on buses 61, 168, and 35. Metered street parking is available, but often limited. The Eaton Centre is accessible from McGill metro station through Montreal’s Underground City, a series of interconnected tunnels.
When to Get There
While the Grévin Wax Museum is busiest on weekends, its spacious exhibits don’t often feel overly crowded. Go on a weekday for a quieter experience; the museum is open daily. The museum often hosts events during Montreal’s annual Nuit Blanche, a city-wide celebration of winter that features performances, food, art, and workshops.
The French Connection
While figures in the Grévin Wax Museum are unique to Montreal, the museum has a predecessor situated in the heart of Paris’ second arrondissement. The idea for Grévin Paris was born in the late 1800s when newspaper owner Arthur Meyer asked Alfred Grévin, a caricaturist and costume designer, to create life-size figures of people featured in his newspaper. It was an instant hit. Over a hundred years later, the museum's first outpost opened in Montreal.
Address: 705 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, Montréal, Québec H3B 4G5, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Great Canadian Midway
With more than 3,000 arcade games spread out in a massive entertainment center, there’s more than enough to do at this spot just outside Niagara Falls. With vibrant colors and lights and games for all ages, it’s an interactive experience that brings out your competitive side as you compete for tickets that can be redeemed for prizes.
Outside of classic games such as Skee Ball and Roll-A-Ball, there are many classic consoles, a Wild West Coaster Motion Simulator, and a thrilling Ghost Blasters Dark Ride. The Wild West ride features 6D motion with state-of-the-art special effects, including the feel of wind and lightning. The Ghost Blasters ride is an interactive experience that winds through the darkness of a haunted house and includes laser guns.
The arcade’s many activities are particularly popular with children and families. Passes are available that include access to other nearby attractions.
Practical Info
The Great Canadian Midway is located at the bottom of Clifton Hill just one block away from Niagara Falls. There are other entertainment options located in the same area, and many combine their visit to the arcade with one of the nearby rides or mini-golf courses. Tokens must be purchased in order to play each game and costs vary.
Address: 4850 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Hours: Mon-Fri from 10am-2am, Sat-Sun from 9am-2am
Admission: Free; individual game costs vary
From $ 26
Granville Island
Overflowing with art studios, theaters, restaurants, and kid-friendly activities, Vancouver’s Granville Island is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The “island”—really a small peninsula—is an ideal getaway from the bustle of city life, with waterfront views, scenic alleyways, and a thriving food and art culture.
The Basics
The Granville Island Public Market is a definite highlight, with its deli-style stalls and artisan stands full of local specialties. Foodies can discover the freshest and most unique offerings on a walking tour of the market, which includes tastings of homemade culinary delights such as maple-cured salmon, artisanal chocolates, and Canadian cheeses. Beer aficionados can tour the Granville Island Brewing Company, which also offers excellent pub-style lunches, while nature enthusiasts can take to the water on a kayak tour. Art lovers can admire work from up-and-coming artists at the Emily Carr Institute of Art & Design and attend shows at the island’s three local theaters, which host afternoon and evening performances year-round. At the Kids Market, families with children can peruse stores full of toys, magic tricks, crafts, candy, and more. Visit on a full-day sightseeing tour of Vancouver to see Granville Island and other city highlights such as Stanley Park, Chinatown, and Gastown.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Plan to spend at least several hours exploring Granville Island, whether you’re visiting independently or taking a walking tour.
- Wear layers—there’s almost always a cool ocean breeze. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must.
- The public market is phasing out plastic shopping bags, so bring a reusable bag if you plan to purchase any souvenirs or marketplace treats.
- Visitor amenities include accessible restrooms, parking lots, water fountains, and ATMs. There are also two playgrounds and a water park on the island.
How to Get There
Since Granville Island is really a peninsula, it’s easy to access by road, as well as on foot. Parking can be limited during peak hours, especially on weekends and during the summer months, when it’s best to use public transportation. You can get to Granville Island via the public bus system and the False Creek ferry (also known as the aquabus). The ferry leaves from several points in downtown Vancouver, and the trip to Granville Island takes only a few minutes.
When to Get There
The best time of year to visit Granville Island is during Vancouver’s brief, yet glorious, summer. Late July and August are especially popular times for families with kids, as these months provide the perfect weather for boat tours, strolling through market stalls, and enjoying local parks. During September, the hugely popular Vancouver International Fringe Festival stages numerous performances in Granville Island’s theater venues.
Things to Do Near Granville Island
Granville Island is centrally located in Vancouver, making it an ideal jumping-off point for visiting other city highlights. There are several attractions nearby: Kitsilano, with its beaches and trendy shops, is a 5-minute drive from Granville Island; Stanley Park is just on the other side of English Bay, a short ferry ride away; and the Museum of Vancouver, located on Kitts Point, is just 10 minutes away by road. To see nearby sights without suffering through rush hour traffic, private tours or boat rentals are both great ways to explore.
Address: Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 12