Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge
The dramatic landscape of Kilauea Point—a rocky promontory crowned by a historic red-topped lighthouse—is one of Kauai’s most scenic spots. And on this Island, that’s saying a lot. Pacific trade winds whip up the water surrounding the blustery point and drive them, shattering into millions of tiny droplets, against the more than 500-foot-tall sheer cliff faces. Seabirds soar and dive into the deep blue water for food.
Most of the expansive 203-acre refuge is off limits—it protects some of the largest nesting colonies of seabirds in the main Hawaiian Islands. But, from the short interpretive trail between the entrance and the lighthouse, it’s easy to find red- and white-tailed tropic birds, albatross, great frigatebirds, red- and brown-footed boobies and wedge-tailed shearwaters flying overhead. Hawaiian spinner dolphins, rare monk seals and migrating humpback whales (Nov. and April), can sometimes be spotted offshore. The area is also an important habitat for the nēnē, the world’s rarest goose and Hawaii’s state bird.
Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse, built in 1913, for outstanding ocean panoramas on tours offered two days a week. A small bookstore and information center has details about the various birds and habitats in the refuge.
Practical Info
The refuge is seven miles east of Princeville on Route 56 and down Kolo Road. It’s often included in land-based Island tours. There is a $5 cash-only admission charge for guests 16 and up, kids are free. It is open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm and closed on federal holidays.
Lighthouse tours run every hour from 10:30 to 2:30 on Wednesdays and Saturdays but are sometimes cancelled due to staff ability (call (808) 828-1413 to confirm).
Address: Route 56, Kilauea, USA
Hours: Open Tues-Sat. 10am-4pm and closed on federal holidays
Admission: $5 (16+)
From $ 155
Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
A veritable ode to a bygone era, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum helps visitors step back into time and immerge themselves in the nautical and maritime heritage of what once was the richest city in the United States of America. Unusually so—Key Westers became extraordinarily wealthy by savaging treasures and luxury goods in the numerous and frequent wreckages, a questionable habit that provided for the livelihoods of the early pioneers on the island. Wrecking masters would then control the salvage operation and later on auction off their finds in wrecking courts, with each good being awarded a profit depending on how long or dangerous the salvage operation had been.
Actors, films and artifacts tell the story of the treacherous Florida Keys reef and the many wrecks it caused, including the infamous 1838 Isaac Allerton vessel. The ship was 137 feet long and weighed 594 tons and served as merchant ship in and around the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean for almost 20 years, before it was caught in a hurricane off Saddlebunch Keys in 1856. Visitors are invited to discover the perils of shipwrecking and to climb the 65-foot lookout tower—where they can alert the authorities in case of a wreck and watch out for Spanish galleons!
Practical Info
The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is located in Northern Key West at 1 Whitehead Street. It is open from 9:40am to 5pm, 365 days a year, with the last show starting at 4:40pm. Entry costs $15.04 per adult, $12.90 per senior and $8.59 per child. Children aged 3 and under can visit the museum free of charge.
Address: 1 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida, USA
Hours: Daily 9:40am to 5pm
Admission: Adults: $15
From $ 16
Kerry Park
Perched on a slope atop Queen Anne Hill is Kerry Park and one of the best views in Seattle. Not only can you see the buildings of downtown, but also Bainbridge Island, the iconic Space Needle, and the boats crossing Elliott Bay. On a clear day, it is even possible to see the summit of Mount Rainier in the background.
The park is a peaceful open space to soak up the views, and is popular with photographers. It’s particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, or just after dusk when the city lights have emerged. Many of the photographs you see of the Seattle skyline are taken at this park. There’s a steel sculpture titled “Changing Form” in the center of the park that’s also worth seeing.
Visit the park on a multi-hour tour of Seattle to hit all the highlights of the city, including the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
Practical Info
You’ll find Kerry Park at the corner of 2nd Avenue W. and W. Highland Drive. Free street parking is typically available. Opening hours are from 6am to 10pm daily.
Address: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, Washington, USA
Hours: 6am–10pm daily
From $ 42
Kendall Square
Since the city’s inception, Kendall Square has served as a transit hub for travelers venturing between Boston and Cambridge. In 1793 this Massachusetts icon offered the first direct wagon route between these cities and today, it’s become a thriving industrial center. Tech firms and offshoots of nearby MIT have made Kendall Square their home, but travelers will also find plenty of accommodations, restaurants and shopping in the vicinity as well.
Visitors can wander the busy farmers’ market seeking out fresh produce and homemade goods, then hire a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Charles River before touring the Constellation Center. In warmer months live concerts take place in early evenings and in cooler months an outdoor ice rink offers a winter wonderland of fun.
Practical Info
Kendall Square is located at the intersection of Main Street, Broadway, Wadsworth Street and Third Street. The popular business district, which goes by the same name, is east of Portland Street, northwest of the Charles River and north of MIT. The Red Line subway and the Kendall/MIT Station are located in the square and it is accessible using the 68, 85 and CT2 buses.
Address: Main Street, Broadway, Wadsworth Street and Third Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
From $ 150
Kensington Market
Eclectic, diverse, and graffiti-slathered, the Kensington Market neighborhood is one of Toronto’s most distinctive enclaves. The district is packed with produce vendors, food sellers, vintage clothes shops, bric-a-brac boutiques, buskers, cafés, and restaurants, and attracts a steady stream of bohemian types.
The Basics
Kensington Market is Toronto at its vibrant, multicultural best. While the neighborhood can be explored independently, going with a tour guide can be helpful. Not only can they point out the best spots for cheap eats, but they can also elaborate on the history and evolution of one of the most fascinating parts of Canada’s largest city. Toronto food tours, which also often cover spots in neighboring Chinatown and Little Italy, frequently visit the market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kensington Market is a must for foodies, bargain-hunters, and people-watchers.
- Bring cash. While many vendors accept credit cards, not all do, and there is often an extra charge for purchases under a certain amount.
- Try your hand at haggling. Not all vendors’ prices are fixed.
How to Get There
With limited parking and heavy traffic, driving is not advised. The best way to get here is by public transit. Take the Spadina or Bathurst streetcar to College Street, or the College or Dundas streetcar to Spadina Avenue. Both will put you just a short stroll from the market.
When to Get There
In the summer, on the last Sunday of the month, Kensington Market goes car-free, and pedestrians rule the roads, making it a particularly nice time to wander around on foot. The market is pretty much always busy, but never more so than on weekends. If you want a little extra elbow room while you browse, go midweek. Expect a reduced level of street activity in winter.
Navigating Kensington Market
For vintage shopping, browse the secondhand stores occupying the brightly painted Victorian buildings along Kensington Avenue, between Dundas Street West and Baldwin Street. Augusta Avenue, between Dundas and College streets, is the market’s bustling main strip. Turn off here onto side streets, such as Nassau Street, to find some hideaway cafés in which to rest and recoup.
Address: Bordered by Spadina Avenue, Dundas Street, Augusta Avenue, and College Street, Toronto, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 28
Keswick Vineyards
The Virginia land on which Keswick Vineyards stands was handpicked by the Schornberg family, who still owns and operates the estate today. Spread across 400 acres, a historic mansion serves as the center point for the estate. The scenic surrounding vines produce some of the area’s best grapes, which are then hand picked and hand sorted to ensure top quality. Their process emphasizes quality ingredients and a minimalist approach to winemaking. As such, the grapes undergo very little manipulation, using natural yeast and no filtration.
The vineyard’s location allows for nice views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Tours give valuable insight into the winemaking process and the unique geography of the area. The tasting room has a relaxed feel, with the courtyard and porch open as weather permits and games and activities typically present. The winery is known for producing award-winning wines; their Chardonnay, Viognier and Heritage wine are particularly tasty.
Practical Info
Located just east of Charlottesville, Keswick is part of the Monticello Wine Trail. It’s about a 15 minute drive from the city. Tastings are available daily; the fee is $10 per person. Picnic facilities are available seasonally and are highly encouraged for use.
Address: 1575 Keswick Winery Drive, Keswick, USA
Hours: 9am-5pm
Admission: Tasting fee is $10
From $ 250
Kilauea Lighthouse
Guarding the tip of Kilauea Point since 1913, this historic Kilauea Lighthouse is one of Kauai’s most visited attractions.
One of the most intact historic lighthouses in the USA, the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1976 and now forms part of a wildlife refuge for migrating seabirds.
Gaze out to sea and imagine the ships that were guided by its light, pick up a souvenir in the gift shop, and learn about the restoration project that’s currently under way.
Practical Info
Kilauea Lighthouse is on Kilauea Point on the northern coast of Kauai, reached by State Highway 56 from Lihue.
Address: State Highway 56, Kilauea 96754, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 122
Key Largo
Key Largo may seem underwhelming at first glance, but “under” is the key word, as the main sights are underwater, past the touristy shops and motels. The 33 mi (53 km) island is the longest in the Florida Keys; it also has the Keys' biggest concentration of dive sites.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must stop. The first underwater park in the U.S., Pennekamp provides some pleasant beaches, decent nature trails, and colorful coral reefs. An aquarium at the visitor center provides a glimpse of what’s under the water, and a glass-bottom boat tour shows the real thing.
If you want to go deeper, take a snorkeling trip or a diving excursion. After a day of activity, stop for seafood in one of the many restaurants on the key.
Practical Information
The easiest way to travel to Key Largo is by car. The major route through the Keys, U.S. Hwy 1 snakes its way down to Key Largo, continuing all the way to Key West.
Address: U.S. 1 at MM 106, Key Largo 33037, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 199
Kenai Fjords National Park
Encompassing 1,047 square miles (2,711 square kilometers), Alaska’s Kenai Fjords National Park is named after its numerous glacial-carved fjords—beautiful ice valleys that sit below sea level. The fjords run down the mountains into the iconic Harding Icefield, one of the largest ice fields in the United States with 40 tidewater glaciers flowing into it. The stunning landscape is also a wildlife-watcher’s dream, thanks to its abundant marine animals, birds, and other native wildlife.
The Basics
The most popular way to visit the park is on a glacier cruise. This is the best way to see the largest variety of marine wildlife, as the park’s icy waters and dense woodlands are home to numerous species of native animals. Adventurous visitors can take an aerial tour of the park, kayak on the fjords, hike to the top of the 8.2-mile (13.2-kilometer) Harding Icefield Trail, explore the trails around Exit Glacier, and go fishing in the park’s backcountry.
Things to Know Before You Go
- To visit the park on a cruise, choose a full-day or a half-day excursion.
- Many cruises offer a buffet lunch option; sample Alaska salmon and other local delicacies for an upgraded price.
- Be sure to bring a camera to snap memorable photos of Resurrection Bay’s rugged coastline and wildlife.
- Even in summer, the weather can be fickle. Be prepared by bringing a light hooded jacket, or warmer layers in cooler months.
- Most fjords cruises are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
Kenai Fjords National Park is located just outside of Seward in southcentral Alaska, 126 miles (203 kilometers) south of Anchorage. By car, take Seward Highway (AK-1) south from Anchorage. It will become AK-9 around mile 35 (87 miles/140 kilometers from Anchorage), with AK-1 heading to Homer and Kenai. Continue on AK-9 to Seward. The Alaska Railroad connects Anchorage to Seward during the summer months (May through September).
When to Get There
The best time to visit Kenai Fjords National Park is between May and September, when the weather cooperates to provide views of the surrounding glaciers (including the impressive Bear Glacier) and mountains—and to be warm enough for visitors to want to be outdoors. Although the park is often inaccessible during the winter months, Seward is accessible year-round via the Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway.
Wildlife in Kenai Fjords National Park
A cruise is the best way get your fill of wildlife viewing, as the park’s waters and forests are home to mountain goats, black bears, bald eagles, harbor seals, sea lions, puffins, porpoises, and humpback and orca whales. Along most cruise routes you’ll have the chance to see abundant wildlife like whales, sea otters, Dall’s porpoises, eagles, mountain goats, and many types of seabirds. Cape Resurrection, at the end of Resurrection Bay, is home to both Steller sea lions and thousands of nesting seabirds. Most boats stop close to the sea lion colonies and seabird rookeries, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Address: Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, AK, USA
From $ 93
Kemah Boardwalk
The town of Kemah sits on the shore of Galveston Bay on the Gulf Coast of Texas, and its boardwalk is one of its main attractions.
Built in 1999, the Kemah Boardwalk is an entertainment and amusement park right on Galveston Bay. The boardwalk transformed what was once a small fishing community into a popular tourist destination. The town is considered part of the “greater Houston area,” as it's just 20 miles east of the big city, but it's a popular draw for visitors from elsewhere in Texas, too.
The Kemah Boardwalk features 15 different amusement park rides – including a 96-foot-tall roller coaster, a 140-foot free fall ride, a zip-line over the boardwalk, a double-decker carousel, and a 65-foot Ferris wheel. You can also take speedboat trips into the bay, and visit the Stingray Reef to touch and feed live stingrays.
Practical Info
Kemah is roughly 198 miles from Austin. The rides on the Kemah Boardwalk are open Monday-Thursday from 12-9pm, Friday from 12-11pm, Saturday from 10:30am-11pm and Sunday 10:30am-10pm. There's no entry fee to walk through the boardwalk. You can buy individual ride tickets for $3.50-$6 (depending on the ride), or all-day ride passes for $17.99 (for those under 48”) or $22.99 (for those over 48”).
Address: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, Texas, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 59
Keauhou Bay
Before the golf courses, condos and luxurious resorts, sleepy little Keauhou Bay was the birthplace of a king. In 1814, when Queen Keopuolani gave birth here, it was first believed that her infant son had died a stillborn death. When a priest managed to revive the infant by placing him upon a stone, the child would live to be Kamehameha III—the longest ruling monarch of Hawaii.
Today the Kauikeaouli Stone is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the bay is also the launching point for snorkeling tours to Kealakekua Bay. At night, dozens of manta rays visit Keauhou to feed on schools of plankton, and twilight snorkeling tours and evening scuba dives have become some of the most popular activities on the Big Island. In addition to snorkeling and diving, standup paddle and kayak rentals are available at the oceanfront park.
Practical Info
Keauhou Bay is located seven miles and 15 minutes south of downtown Kona. There is parking available on Kamehameha III road, and Keauhou Beach Park has showers, restrooms and a small black sand beach. Swimming, however, is not advised due to the high level of boat traffic.
Address: Keauhou, Hawaii, USA
From $ 115
Kilauea Iki Crater
There was once a time in 1959 when fountains of lava from Kilauea Iki crater erupted nearly 2,000 ft. into the sulfur-filled air. As lava spouted from the small crater near the summit of Kilauea volcano, it formed a lava lake which measured ten feet deep and was a bubbling cauldron of freshly-formed Earth. To date, the area is home to some of the most intense activity volcanologists have experienced in the Hawaiian chain.
While that particular event may have been over 50 years ago, Kilauea Iki crater today is still one of the most visited spots in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and it’s reputed that even after five decades that parts of the Earth are still warm to the touch. Strangely enough, the most popular hike in the National Park actually cuts across the floor of the crater, and this strenuous two hour journey begins its descent from the edge of a tropical rainforest.
Even though the crater looks tame from above, hikers who tackle Kilauea Iki crater speak of the surreal feeling of hiking across virgin terrain that was so violent in the recent past. Gazing up at the rim of the crater, it’s humbling to think that this mile-wide opening was once consumed with magma as it gushed from the fiery Earth.
Although Kilauea remains an active volcano, the center of the activity is in a separate section of park, and Kilauea Iki seems to have calmed for the immediate time being. Nevertheless, steam vents will still rise from areas with moisture, and a hike across Kilauea Iki crater is a literal walk into the heart of one of the most active volcanoes on the planet.
For those with an interest in volcanoes and history this is a spot that will leave you in astonishment and wonder, and the otherworldly terrain of the crater floor is like none other you will experience in the Hawaiian chain.
While that particular event may have been over 50 years ago, Kilauea Iki crater today is still one of the most visited spots in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and it’s reputed that even after five decades that parts of the Earth are still warm to the touch. Strangely enough, the most popular hike in the National Park actually cuts across the floor of the crater, and this strenuous two hour journey begins its descent from the edge of a tropical rainforest.
Even though the crater looks tame from above, hikers who tackle Kilauea Iki crater speak of the surreal feeling of hiking across virgin terrain that was so violent in the recent past. Gazing up at the rim of the crater, it’s humbling to think that this mile-wide opening was once consumed with magma as it gushed from the fiery Earth.
Although Kilauea remains an active volcano, the center of the activity is in a separate section of park, and Kilauea Iki seems to have calmed for the immediate time being. Nevertheless, steam vents will still rise from areas with moisture, and a hike across Kilauea Iki crater is a literal walk into the heart of one of the most active volcanoes on the planet.
For those with an interest in volcanoes and history this is a spot that will leave you in astonishment and wonder, and the otherworldly terrain of the crater floor is like none other you will experience in the Hawaiian chain.
Address: Kilauea Iki Crater, Hawaii 96778, USA
From $ 182
Key West Aquarium
Situated on Key West’s Mallory Square, the Key West Aquarium brings visitors up close to some of the Florida Keys’ aquatic wildlife. Exhibits feature guest favorites such as sharks, stingrays, American alligators, and jellyfish. The Atlantic Shores exhibit houses a living red mangrove ecosystem, a critical habitat in the Keys.
The Basics
The Key West Aquarium ranks among the island’s most popular family attractions. An admission ticket is valid for two consecutive days, allowing visitors to browse the exhibits or join 30-minute guided tours to learn more about the animals and the history of Key West. The aquarium is a stop on the Key West hop-on hop-off trolley, and the popular Conch Train ends its 90-minute island tour at Mallory Square, a short walk from the aquarium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Key West Aquarium is a hit with families traveling with kids.
- The aquarium is wheelchair-accessible and dog-friendly.
- Give yourself 45 minutes to an hour to explore the aquarium exhibits, or more if you plan to take a guided tour.
How to Get There
The aquarium is centrally located in Key West Old Town, within easy walking distance of several nearby attractions. Because parking is limited in the area, it’s a good idea to hire a taxi or take the bus or trolley to Mallory Square.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open daily, year-round. It’s busiest during the winter high season (December to February), so come early on a weekday during this period. Because exhibits are covered, the aquarium is an excellent option for a rainy day or a particularly hot afternoon.
History of the Aquarium
The Key West Aquarium was built during the Great Depression, between 1933 and 1935, as part of the federal government’s Works Progress Administration program to help create jobs for struggling Key Westers. When the aquarium first opened, admission was just 15 cents.
Address: 1 Whitehead Street, Key West 33040-6634, USA
From $ 16
Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center has been hurtling humans and shuttles into space since 1968 and is still a primary site for NASA launches. Parts of the sprawling campus are open to the public with daily tours offering opportunities to interact with real astronauts, test your skills with a simulated space flight, and see artifacts from the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs.
The Basics
The campus is made up of several “mission zones,” all accessible with admission. See the Rocket Garden, filled with historic engine replicas and full-size Titan rockets; the Space Shuttle Atlantis; and the Early Space Exploration Hall, where you’ll find hands-on exhibits highlighting the pioneers of spaceflight and the global race to the moon. On-site bus tours depart every 15 minutes and narrate a two-hour route to several launch sites, including those used by the techy space explorers at SpaceX, and the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you can navigate astronaut artifacts and walk beneath a 363-foot (110-meter) rocket from the Saturn V mission. Visit on a day trip from Orlando, or opt for an Ultimate Space Pass that includes a tour of NASA’s launch headquarters, lunch with an astronaut, two IMAX movies, the Shuttle Launch Experience, and free time to experience the center’s exhibits and galleries.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s lots to see and do at Kennedy Space Center, so plan on spending a full day here.
- The space center one of the most popular family attractions in Florida.
- The bus tour is included in general admission but stops running 2.5 hours before closing time.
- Choose a helicopter tour over the Kennedy Space Center for a bird’s-eye view of the sprawling facility.
How to Get to the Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center visitor complex is adjacent to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Titusville, 45 minutes from Orlando by car, on the eastern side of the Intracoastal Waterway. There is no public transit to the center, but several tours include transport to the Space Center from Orlando. There’s plenty of on-site parking, though only multi-day tickets include the cost of parking.
When to Get There
Because there’s so much to do, it’s best to arrive as close to the daily 9am opening time as possible. Closing times vary seasonally between 6pm and 8pm. The center is seldom crowded (except on launch days), but you can avoid large field trip groups by visiting on a weekend.
How to See a Rocket Launch From the Kennedy Space Center
To count down and feel the rumble of lift-off just a few miles away from a real launching rocket, you’ll have to time your visit just right, as only a handful take place each year. The visitor center offers the closest viewing stations for shuttles and rockets blasting off from the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral, and has four designated spots for lawn chairs (some of the spaces require tickets, which typically go on sale two weeks prior to launch).
Address: SR 405 between Range Road & East Avenue SW, Titusville, Florida, USA
Hours: Daily 9am–5pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 55
Kewalo Basin
In the heart of downtown Honolulu, just across the street and two blocks west of Hawaii’s largest mall, is the small boat harbor of Kawalo Basin and the starting point for a number of popular Honolulu water-based adventures. Deep sea charter fishing vessels moor alongside snorkel and scuba charters, parasailing vessels, winter whale watch pontoons, underwater submersible tours and even an 83-foot pirate galleon complete with water-firing cannons for daytime family fun or evening debauchery. If you’re looking to get beyond the beaches of Waikiki and out into the big blue, a stroll along its street-side dock will, at the very least, display your varied options.
Though there is no beach access here, a gentle but ridable wave that breaks left of the harbor channel is a popular surf spot with local groms (kids in surf speak). In addition to hosting the Rip Curl GromSearch competition, the break is a training ground for the Kamehameha High School surf team.
On land, the adjacent hipster enclave of Kakaako, and shopping strips in the Ward area, afford plenty of options for hungry (or thirsty) sailors and surfers.
Practical Info
Kawalo Basin is a private harbor where individual tour companies and boat operators dock; it’s about a mile west along the coast from Waikiki and serviced by a number of local buses. Bookings are made with the individual tour operators, though some—particularly whale watch tours in season—have harbor-side information booths and ticket sales for their regularly departing trips. If it’s the surf break you’re interested in, the best way to access it is via a jump off the jetty and a paddle out to the lineup, but you’ll have to bring your board—there are no rental spots here.
Address: Honolulu, HI, USA 96814, USA
From $ 75
Ketchikan Cruise Port
If you’re sailing north by cruise ship from Seattle or Vancouver, Ketchikan cruise port will likely be your first port of call. The former salmon fishery and the Salmon Capital of the World offers visitors a real taste of Alaska’s frontier personality and cultural heritage and a chance to explore the surrounding temperate rain forest.
The Basics
Travelers docking in Ketchikan can choose to explore the former fishery and gold mining town on their own or head further afield on a half-day shore excursion to explore the natural surroundings. See the world’s largest collection of totem poles at Saxman Native Village, explore the Inside Passage on a Zodiac cruise, board a fishing boat from Deadliest Catch for a fishing excursion, walk through the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, or take off on a floatplane tour above Misty Fjords National Monument. Many tours offer the chance to spot wildlife, like eagles, bears, and marine mammals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Ketchikan shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the Ketchikan port.
- Guided shore excursions typically last two to four hours, depending on the activities involved.
- Bring bug spray ashore, especially if you plan to spend time in the woods.
- While it’s possible to explore on your own, booking a shore excursion with transportation and a guide is the best way to eliminate hassle.
How to Get to Ketchikan from the Ketchikan Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock at one of four berths located right near the city center. On the occasional days when the berths are full, ships might be required to anchor offshore and tender passengers into town.
Port Information
While the US dollar is the official currency, some shops also accept Canadian dollars. ATMs are located throughout town near the cruise ship dock.
Address: 405 Dock St, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA
From $ 77
Kenai River
Flowing 82 miles from the Kenai Lake and mountains all the way to the Cook Outlet of the Pacific Ocean, the scenic Kenai River is known as the most famous sport fishing destination in Alaska. With King or Chinook salmon, red salmon, silver salmon and pink salmon running seasonally, the salmon-rich waters are the main draw to the area. The world record for the largest salmon ever (97 pounds!) was caught here. King salmon return from the ocean to the streams where they were born, with upwards of 45,000 in the river in July alone. There are also rainbow and steelhead trout, Dolly Varden, and northern Pike, as well as other Alaskan wildlife such as moose, bald eagles, and bears.
The Kenai River itself is a glacial stream with clear, turquoise waters surrounded by tall forests and golden meadows. There is also a section of the river that offers whitewater rafting, flowing into Kenai Canyon and out to Skilak Lake.
Practical Info
The Kenai River is located in south central Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula. The drive from Anchorage is around 3 hours.
Address: Kenai Peninsula, Alaska, USA
From $ 175
Kekaha Kai State Park (Kona Coast State Park)
With much of its coastline covered in jagged black lava rock, Kona is not well known for its beaches. However, a few locales offer the unspoiled white sand oases that typify Hawaii, including the palm-lined stretches at Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park. The best beachy parts are located more than a mile down a bumpy road through the remnants of a jumbled lava flow. Signs calling stretches “unimproved” are an understatement. Hualalai Volcano, looming behind the park, oozed these paths to the sea between the late 1700s and 1801. To truly appreciate the ocean dip awaiting you (and to satisfy many rental car agreements), hike the 1.6 miles in instead. When you arrive seaside, the small facilities—including limited parking, toilets, showers and an on-the-beach picnic area will be straight in front of you. But, to get to the larger stretches of white sand, you’ll need to continue on, turning right at the signs before the toilet blocks to reach Mahai’ula Bay. Here, it’s not uncommon to spot sea turtles, and the bay’s offshore rolling waves make this a fun spot for bodyboarding, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding. For an even more secluded spot, follow the trail behind the old buildings at the north end of Mahaiula to the double-arched Makalawena Beach.
Kekaha Kai State Park’s 12-acre grounds also feature access to a 4.5-mile coastal jaunt to Kua Bay along the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, including the Puu Kuili cindercone with sweeping shoreline views.
Practical Info
Kekaha Kai State Park (Kona Coast State Park) is located off Highway 19 north of the Kona Airport between mile markers 90 and 91. Visitors with smaller vehicles should park where the pavement ends shortly after the turn off and hike in— be sure you have adequate water and sun protection. 4WD vehicles can attempt the road and park closer to the beach. The park is free and open to the public between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily. Note that the nearest equipment rentals (snorkel, surf gear) are shops in Kailua-Kona.
Address: Hwy 19, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, USA 96740, USA
Hours: Open daily 8am-7pm
From $ 65
Key West Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters Museum
The Key West Lighthouse is one of the island's oldest structures. It was first built in 1825 to help ships navigate the dangerous reefs of the Lower Keys. The lighthouse that stands today dates back to 1847, and the 92-foot (28-meter) building offers some of the best views in town, as well as a maritime museum in the keeper’s house.
The Basics
Though the Key West Lighthouse was decommissioned in 1969, it was restored to its original glory and remains one of the island’s top attractions. Visitors can climb 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse and hear stories told by keepers and their families in the keeper’s quarters. The narrated hop-on hop-off trolley stops at the lighthouse, as do many of the island’s cultural walking tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This museum is popular with history buffs and families traveling with kids.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to climb 88 steps to reach the top.
- The keeper’s quarters are wheelchair-accessible, but the lighthouse itself is not.
- Restrooms are available in the gift shop at the base of the lighthouse.
How to Get There
The Key West Lighthouse is located on the southwest end of the island, directly across Whitehead Street from the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum. It’s a 10-minute drive from the airport.
When to Get There
The lighthouse museum is open 364 days per year (closed on Christmas). The best time to visit is on a clear day when the views from the top of the lighthouse are at their best. Expect long ticket lines and a wait to get to the top during the winter high season (December to February).
Hurricane of 1846
On Oct. 11, 1846, a tropical hurricane swept toward Key West, but communication was slow, and the islanders had little warning. Barbara Mabrity, the keeper at the time, as well as several other Key West residents, sought shelter in the lighthouse, believing its brick structure would protect them. As the storm raged on, both the keeper’s quarters and the lighthouse itself were swept away, killing at least 14 people, but Mabrity survived.
Address: 938 Whitehead Street, Key West 33040-7423, USA
From $ 39
Key West Cruise Port
Key West is both a city and an island that is part of the Florida Keys and considered to be the southernmost city in the continental United States. With a laidback and slightly offbeat vibe, numerous famous writers, artists and musicians have called it home over the years. Cruise ships have been stopping at Key West since 1969 and today it welcomes nearly half a million cruise passengers every year.
How to get to Key West
Your ship will likely dock at either Mallory Square or the Truman Annex, both of which are just a few blocks from Duval Street in central Key West. If your ship docks further out at the Navy Mole, near Fort Zachary Taylor. In that case, trolleys are available to shuttle you into the Old Town.
One Day in Key West
Get a feel for historic Key West by taking a tour with the open-air Conch Tour Train. The train departs from Mallory Square and takes you through the Old Town area of the island, passing Duval Street, the historic seaport, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. The Hemingway Museum is a must-see for any visitor to Key West. There, you can tour Hemingway’s old writing studio, see the first swimming pool in Key West, and cozy up to some of the dozens of furry felines who wander the house, descendants of the writer’s many cats.
For panoramic views of the island, climb to the top of either the observation tower at the Shipwreck Museum or the Key West Lighthouse. Grab a bite to eat and then spend the afternoon enjoying Key West from the water: swim with the dolphins, sail on a glass bottom boat, paddle a kayak or go diving or snorkeling.
Want to explore a different side of Key West? Join the Jimmy Buffett-focused Trails of the Margaritaville Tour or the spooky Ghosts and Gravestones of Key West Tour. The Key West Cemetery is also worth a stop, with above ground tombs reflecting the island’s mixed ethnic heritage.
If your ship is still in port at sunset, don’t miss the Sunset Celebration, a nightly arts festival at Mallory Square that kicks off two hours before the sun sets.
Port Information
English is the official language and the currency is the U.S. Dollar. ATMs are widely available.
How to get to Key West
Your ship will likely dock at either Mallory Square or the Truman Annex, both of which are just a few blocks from Duval Street in central Key West. If your ship docks further out at the Navy Mole, near Fort Zachary Taylor. In that case, trolleys are available to shuttle you into the Old Town.
One Day in Key West
Get a feel for historic Key West by taking a tour with the open-air Conch Tour Train. The train departs from Mallory Square and takes you through the Old Town area of the island, passing Duval Street, the historic seaport, and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. The Hemingway Museum is a must-see for any visitor to Key West. There, you can tour Hemingway’s old writing studio, see the first swimming pool in Key West, and cozy up to some of the dozens of furry felines who wander the house, descendants of the writer’s many cats.
For panoramic views of the island, climb to the top of either the observation tower at the Shipwreck Museum or the Key West Lighthouse. Grab a bite to eat and then spend the afternoon enjoying Key West from the water: swim with the dolphins, sail on a glass bottom boat, paddle a kayak or go diving or snorkeling.
Want to explore a different side of Key West? Join the Jimmy Buffett-focused Trails of the Margaritaville Tour or the spooky Ghosts and Gravestones of Key West Tour. The Key West Cemetery is also worth a stop, with above ground tombs reflecting the island’s mixed ethnic heritage.
If your ship is still in port at sunset, don’t miss the Sunset Celebration, a nightly arts festival at Mallory Square that kicks off two hours before the sun sets.
Port Information
English is the official language and the currency is the U.S. Dollar. ATMs are widely available.
Address: USA
From $ 31