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Mandala Nightclub

Cancún is full of places to party, but the decor at the Mandala nightclub—a multilevel venue in Cancún’s hotel zone—sets it apart. Guests enjoy the wide-open dance floor, glittery lights, and impressive entryway. The club is also known for weekly pool parties, when guests dance to live DJ sets beside the pool or soak in the Jacuzzi.

The Basics

A favorite spot within Cancún’s nightlife scene, Mandala boasts Asian-themed decor with opulent chandeliers and mandala motifs. Skip-the-line VIP packages include access to an open bar that serves unlimited drinks until 3:30am. Other options include admittance to an exclusive VIP section with a private waiter. Mandala is also a frequent stop on bar crawl tours of Cancún.

Things to Know Before You Go

Dress to impress because casual clothes are considered a big no-no.
Bottle service is available for groups of six or more.
The open bar usually doesn’t include specialty drinks such as energy drinks, premium cocktails, or bottled water.

How to Get There

The club is located on Kukulcan Boulevard in Cancun’s hotel zone and opens daily at 9:30pm. Guests can purchase tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. Bar crawl-type tours typically don’t offer transportation, but the club is easily accessible by taxi or bus. Buses in the hotel zone run 24 hours a day.

When to Get There

Mandala nightclub hosts two theme nights each week. Every Monday, a Mardi Gras party takes over, complete with bead necklaces, shots, and contests inspired by Carnival. On Thursday, Mandala Gone Wild is the club’s version of year-round spring break. The club also hosts a festive New Year’s Eve celebration that requires a special ticket.

Nearby Señor Frog's

Another popular Cancún nightclub, Señor Frog's, offers similar VIP service packages with open bar and skip-the-line access, and it’s located right next to Mandala. Known for its fun party vibes and spring break-style atmosphere, Señor Frog's also offers dinner, so it’s a convenient place to grab food before heading to Mandala.

Blvd Kukulkan km 9 Zona Hotelera, Cancun, Mexico

From $ 35

Manhattan Beach

A 10-minute drive from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), this trendy, hill-sloping beach town spanning two miles worth of Pacific Ocean shoreline bears no resemblance to the Borough of Manhattan; back in 1902, it was named at the flip of a coin for the New York City home of its original real estate developer, Stewart Merrill. What Manhattan Beach does have is a wide ribbon of soft, white sand, tasty waves that attract local surfers, and a trendy commercial village of boutiques and restaurants.

The northernmost of L.A.’s three Beach Cities (along with Hermosa and Redondo), Manhattan was once merely a laid-back residential community, but is now home to some of L.A. County’s priciest real estate. To see some of the town’s loveliest/quirkiest homes, take a stroll along the ocean-side Strand, a pedestrian-friendly bike path that actually stretches 26 miles from Santa Monica to the far end of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Manhattan Beach attracts almost 4 million visitors each year. Besides the Strand, it’s most popular for its shoreline, the historic Municipal Pier (which hosts a small aquarium with free admission), and two events held here every August, the Manhattan Beach Open volleyball tournament and the International Surf Festival.

Practical Info:

The best route to take by transit: Bus 126.

Manhattan Beach, CA, USA

From $ 50

Madonna Estates

Located in the world-renowned Carneros region, Madonna Estates is a unique winemaker utilizing dry-farming production and organic grapes. The vineyard is family owned and operated using a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. As one of the oldest vineyards in Napa Valley, Madonna Estates is working to ensure the historic winemaking traditions of the past live on. It was one of the few original vineyards that survived the Prohibition era.

The idea behind their wines is minimal intervention and as much natural growth as possible. Mild fog, wild, and cool temperatures create a unique microclimate in this area, fed with coastal air. Madonna Estates produces ten varietals including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. The tasting room is decorated in Italian Pompeii style to reflect the family’s heritage, and the reserve room serves their highest quality vintages.

Practical Info

Madonna Estates can be found off of Highway 12 in Carneros. Aside from the tasting room, there is a picnic area. Tastings are complimentary or $5, depending on the level of quality. The estate is dog-friendly.

5400 Old Sonoma Road, Napa, California, USA 94558, USA

Open daily 10am-5pm

From $ 105

Makena

As the population center for South Maui's original inhabitants, Makena is heavily steeped in ancient history and culture. And although much of modern Makena has been developed with waterfront resorts and homes, this history is still evident at places such as Keawala’i Church—a Congregational church established in 1832—where sermons are still held in the Hawaiian language. Similarly, at the end of the paved road in Keone’o’io Bay (La Perouse Bay), the trailhead begins for the ancient King’s Highway, a rocky path that once wrapped around the entire island.

Makena is home to some of Maui's best beaches, including Big Beach—one of the only stretches of Maui's shoreline that has been entirely protected from development—and nearby Little Beach, which is known as the island's clothing-optional outpost and hosts drum circles led by sun worshippers. Snorkeling is also especially popular in Makena, and pods of spinner dolphins have been known to frequent the waters of Keone’o’io.

Although Makena is only a 10-minute drive from the mega-resorts of nearby Wailea, it manages to retain a rural charm that draws everyone from hikers to hippies and surfers to sightseers. It’s a dry, volcanic stretch of rocky shore where travelers can still catch glimpses of the island’s past along the southern coast.

Practical Info

USA

From $ 75

Mallory Square

Few things are as beautiful as a Florida sunset, so while you are in Key West, be sure to celebrate the sunset in true Key West style - at Mallory Square. Every night, starting two hours before the sunset, the square hosts its "Sunset Celebration." Arts and crafts exhibitors, street performers and food carts descend on the square providing you with fun entertainment to enjoy in the last daylight hours.

During the daytime, Mallory Square offers numerous attractions at its many restaurants and shops. While you are there, you should also check out the famous Key West Historic Memorial Sculpture Garden. Open since 1997, the garden contains 36 bronze busts of the men and women who have had the greatest impact on Key West. The most famous of these are renowned writer Ernest Hemingway and President Harry S. Truman.

Mallory Square is located on the northwest end of the island and is easily accessible from most locations.

1 Whitehead Street, Key West 33040-6634, USA

From $ 15

Makua Beach (Tunnels Beach)

In the shadow of verdant mountains, and shaded by palm and ironwood trees, Makua Beach has golden sand and baby blue waters. The post-card-perfect setting was featured in the 1958 movie South Pacific, but it’s the labyrinthine underwater reef, snaked with caves, that lends the beach its nickname and draws visitors today: Tunnels Beach is one of Kauai’s best snorkeling spots. Best of all, it’s frequently uncrowded.

Protected within a small cupped North Shore bay, two layers of reef offer different experiences. The smaller inshore reef boasts calmer waters and frequent sea turtle sightings, while the expansive offshore reef is a well-utilized scuba dive site with more varied terrain—some sections drop to 70 feet. The ocean-facing edge of the outer reef is popular with expert surfers. Both reefs are home to colorful wrasse, moray eels, butterfly fish and Hawaii’s state fish, the hard-to-pronounce Humuhumunukunukuapua`a. If you’re lucky, you may even see an endangered Hawaiian monk seal hauled out on the shore.

Practical Info

Makua (Tunnels) Beach is 5.5 miles west of Hanalei on a narrow section Highway 560. Several private Kauai tours take visitors to Makua, but it is not a common stop on package tours. If you’re driving yourself, parking is easiest in Ha’ena State Park, which has restrooms, showers, lifeguards and occasionally food trucks. It occupies the western shores of the same bay, a little over a half-mile away.

Tunnels is one of the few beaches where snorkeling may be possible during choppy winter months, but check conditions with Ha’ena lifeguards that day.

Highway 560, Kauai, USA

From $ 135

Maguey Bay

Maguey Bay is an easily accessible bay with a popular beach of the same name. A handful of busy seafood shacks line the beach, and visitors can sip cold beers on patio chairs, or splash around in the bay’s calm, clear waters. You’ll find lots of amenities here, too, as Maguey tends to be one of Huatulco’s busier bays.

The Basics

Maguey Bay is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Rent some gear and head into the ocean, where a wide variety of colorful tropical fish exist just off the shores, or head to the rockier edge of the bay for some wave jumping. Visit the bay independently or as part of a Huatulco sightseeing cruise. Tours typically visit several different bays with a stop at Maguey for snorkeling.

Things to Know Before You Go

Maguey Bay is easy to reach, and offers restaurants, water sports facilities, public restrooms, and showers.
Choose a Huatulco sightseeing cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.

How to Get There

Maguey Bay sits just south of Santa Cruz Bay and is accessible by rough road or hired boats. There’s a taxi stand at the entrance to the bay, so you’ll rarely have to wait for a ride back into town. The road to Maguey can be difficult to navigate during rainy season.

When to Get There

As with all of Huatulco, Maguey Bay can be visited year-round. The beach begins to fill up with visitors around midday when the boat tours start to arrive. Mornings are less crowded and offer better conditions and calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling.

Organo Bay

Just a stone’s throw away, Organo Bay is a quiet bay that’s perfect for travelers who just want to get away from it all. It receives fewer visitors than Maguey Bay, mainly because of its inaccessibility—to visit by vehicle, it’s a 20-minute walk from the main road. There are no amenities here, so plan to carry enough food, water, and supplies for the day.

Maguey Bay, Oaxaca, Mexico

From $ 55

Makapuu Lighthouse

Within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline on Oahu’s Windward Coast, the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is a popular hike ending at the historical red-roofed Makapu’u Lighthouse, built in 1909. Though the lighthouse is not open to the public, the moderately challenging hike attracts travelers and locals alike for its stunning coastal views.

The Basics

The scenic Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is entirely paved and stretches for 1.2 miles (2 kilometers). The hike affords views of Makapu’u Beach, Koko Head, and, on clear days, the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. Lucky hikers will also see humpback whales breaching in winter months. There are also several delights along the trail, including military pillboxes and teeming tide pools.

Most travelers hike the trail independently, while many group and private tours of East Oahu and the entire island include stops at the Makapu’u Point Lookout.

Things to Know Before You Go

Makapu’u Point is ideal for lighthouse enthusiasts and anyone looking for a lovely, low-impact outdoor experience.
There is no access to the lighthouse.
Good walking shoes are recommended, as are a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. On cloudy days, tote a rain jacket.
The trail is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though it does have a moderate grade to the lighthouse. The side trail to the tide pools is not accessible.

How to Get There

The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is located on Oahu’s southeastern point, about 16 miles (26 kilometers) from downtown Honolulu. If driving, park on the street or in the free Makapu’u Point Lookout parking lot (opens at 7am) at the base of the hike.

When to Get There

The trail is open year-round. Oahu has mild tropical weather but can be wet in winter and quite hot in summer. No matter the time of year, arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.

Makapu’u Tide Pools

Once you reach the third rest stop along the lighthouse trail, you can climb down a challenging, rocky trail to the Makapu’u tide pools. Made of black volcanic rock, the pools host sea stars, crabs, fish, and intermittent blowholes. Be advised that this portion of the hike is unpaved and best suited to experienced hikers. There have been serious injuries and deaths at the tide pools—visitors are advised to stay far from the area during high tide.

Hawaii, USA

From $ 25

Magic Gardens

Explore an urban art landscape at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (PMG). Multicolor glass bottles, unique ‘found’ objects and hand-forged tiles envelop visitors in a truly unique and creative art environment. Mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar’s largest public artwork, PMG spans half a block on South Street. The gardens are a nod to historical figures and influential artists, as well as the local community. Some of the art installations have been in creation for more than 14 years! A popular destination for culture seekers and nontraditional art lovers, PMG hosts workshops, concerts, and hands-on experiences. Tours are available so visitors can experience all aspects of the outdoor exhibition and indoor gallery.

Practical Info

Pennsylvania’s PMG is located on South Street. Metered and two-hour parking is available nearby — further streets offer free unlimited parking. The space is open 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Monday-Sunday, be sure to check the schedule for holiday schedules, delays and special events. During peak hours (weekends 11 a.m.-5 p.m.) visitors may have to wait in line. Admission costs $10 for adults, $8 for students, seniors and members, $5 for children and free for children younger than 5.

1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA, USA 19147, USA

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Sunday (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day)

$10 adults, $8 students, seniors & members, $5 children

From $ 34

Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino

Though once outfitted with a tropical theme, Mandalay Bay is currently undergoing a makeover that will include an update to shows, dining options and nightlife opportunities. There have also been room renovations and a rebranding of the property’s boutique hotel, soon to be Delano Las Vegas.

Mandalay Bay’s casino, which has 135,000 square feet of gaming space, will be getting new carpet, chairs and music, but the gaming opportunities will remain similar to what has been offered in the past. The property has more than 1,700 slot machines ranging from 1¢ to $100 per play. Table game favorites such as baccarat, blackjack, craps and roulette can be found throughout the casino. A variety of poker games are available as well, and free lessons are available for beginners Monday through Thursday at 2:00 p.m.

Mandalay Bay’s race and sports book is a popular place to catch all major sports and horse racing events including boxing, football, auto racing, UFC, hockey, basketball and baseball. It has 17 large-screen televisions and several race seats with individual monitors. An enclosed VIP luxury box is available for groups up to eight people.

The resort’s Lotus Room combines Western gaming with Eastern table-side dining and hospitality. A handful of table games are available in the Lotus Room.

3950 South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA

From $ 20

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

As the last large-scale Romantic garden left in the United States, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens seek to provide an escape from the struggles and stresses of everyday life. Unlike a formal garden that seeks to “control” nature, a Romantic garden cooperates with nature to create a peaceful landscape where people and nature exist in harmony. Magnolia’s are also the oldest unrestored gardens in the United States, and the historic house is one of the oldest in the South.

The Basics

A trip to Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is full of beauty and history. In fact, it is the only plantation on the Ashley River that survived both the American Revolution and the Civil War. Many sections of the gardens are more than 325 years old. A petting zoo with local animals is one of the family-friendly aspects, as is the Peacock Cafe. There is a nature train and tram tour around the grounds that takes visitors past major sights and around the natural wildlife. There are also swamp tours and nature boat tours available.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Magnolia Plantation is a must-see for history buffs and plant and flower fans.
Plan to spend a few hours here, with around 45 minutes dedicated to touring the historic gardens.
While much of the grounds are wheelchair-accessible, the home tour is not.
Tours often include air-conditioned round-trip transportation from Charleston.
One ticket allows for access to most of the sights. Tours are available at additional cost.

How to Get There

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens are located about 14 miles from Charleston. You can drive there in just under thirty minutes (ample parking is available) or take a tour that includes transportation from the city.

When to Get There

Magnolia Plantation is open every day of the year, including holidays. Time your visit depending on the individual tours you wish you take.

History at Magnolia

The house at Magnolia Plantation has remained the Drayton family home for generations. It has seen centuries of history since it was established in 1676. Visitors interested in learning more about the house can take the plantation house tour. A tour and free shuttle to the historic slave cabins is another important part of the region’s history that is not to be overlooked.

3550 Ashley River Rd., Charleston, South Carolina 29414, USA

Varies seasonally, though always open between 8:30 a.m–4:30 p.m.

Adults, $20; Children ages 6–12, $10

From $ 57

Manayunk

For visitors looking beyond the historical attractions of downtown Philadelphia, the hip and vibrant Manayunk neighborhood is a must-visit. Situated along the Schuylkill River and the Manayunk Canal, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, this formerly industrial area is now a trendy neighborhood packed with waterfront bars, cafés and art galleries. One of the biggest draws to Manayunk is the Philly Cycling Classic, an internationally renowned bike race that winds through the neighborhoods notoriously hilly streets, including the Manayunk Wall, a stretch of Levering Street with a challenging incline. As you explore the area, you can stop in at Orbit Gallery, which features local artists, or join a kayaking trip.

Practical Info

Manayunk is located in the northwest of the city, about 22 minutes’ drive from downtown Philadelphia. To get there by car, take either I-76 West or Kelly Drive. Most of the shops and restaurants can be found along Main Street, which fronts the Manayunk Canal.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

From $ 29

Maid of the Mist Steamboat

You cannot get any closer to the thundering cascades of Niagara Falls than on a Maid of the Mist boat tour. The little steamboats have been chugging away into the falls' misty sprays since 1846, making this one of the area’s oldest tourist attractions. Be prepared to get up close and personal with the highest-flow-rate waterfall in the world—and to get wet, which is all part of the unforgettable Maid of the Mist experience.

The Basics

The Maid of the Mist tour departs from a calm part of the Niagara River in New York, on the American side near the international Rainbow Bridge. After cruising past the impressive American and Bridal Veil Falls, the boat plies into the dense mist of spray inside the curve of Horseshoe Falls (sometimes known as the Canadian Falls). Be sure to avail yourself of a complimentary blue rain poncho—everyone will get wet from the winds and the spray! Note that some tours departing from Canada also visit the American side and include a Maid of the Mist tour; visitors should have appropriate documentation to enter the United States and Canada.

Things to Know Before You Go

It’s best to stay on deck for the whole trip; if you go below deck, you’ll miss the action.
Boats depart every 15 minutes, weather permitting.
The entire trip along the river and to the falls takes about 20 minutes.
All boats are wheelchair accessible and feature free Wi-Fi.
The Maid of the Mist operates exclusively from Niagara Falls, New York. If you are coming from the Canadian side of the falls, be sure to have proper documentation to enter the US.

How to Get There

The Maid of the Mist boat landing is located on Prospect Street in Niagara Falls, New York. Onsite parking is available near the Visitor Center. Nearby attractions include Clifton Hill sites, Journey Behind the Falls, and Bird Kingdom. All Maid of the Mist boat tours depart from New York, though some tours from the Canadian side include transportation to the boat’s departure point.

When to Get There

The boat tours run from April to October. The summer months are the busiest, so it’s best to schedule your Maid of the Mist ride in advance, and choose an early-morning cruise if you want to avoid the biggest crowds.

Best Views from the Maid of the Mist

When you board your Maid of the Mist boat, you’ll want to get into position for the best views—so head to the starboard side (the right side when facing the front of the boat), which comes closest to the falls. Once the boat departs the dock, it slowly approaches Horseshoe Falls, then it veers left and heads back to the dock. On its return journey, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the American Falls—and a veritable shower of mist from the powerful cascade. Most travelers head for the upper deck during the boat ride, but stellar views can also be seen from either end of the lower deck.

5920 River Road, Niagara Falls L2E 6V6, USA

Open daily

Adults: CA$19.25

From $ 25

Magic Island

A sandy peninsula extending into Honolulu Harbor, Magic Island—more rarely referred to by its official name, Aina Moana—affords rare right-off-the-beach green space with a protected swimming lagoon across from the Ala Moana shopping center in downtown Honolulu. The park is popular for local family barbecues and picnics, and its open 30 acres (12 acres) are fronted by remarkable banyan trees and feature tall palms, picnic tables, and long grassy lawns.

The Basics

From Magic Island, you can see the green Koolau Mountains and the high rises of Honolulu in one direction, and great views of the resorts of Waikiki—from the Duke Kahanamoku lagoon all the way to Diamond Head Crater—in the other. The space is great for sunbathing, people-watching, and swimming, especially for kids and their parents, who appreciate the shallow, protected lagoon and the presence of a lifeguard. Many boat and helicopter tours float or fly over the scenic park, and some land-based tours by bike and Segway also visit.

Things to Know Before You Go

Magic Island is a must-see for sunbathers and families.
The area offers a free parking lot, but on weekends its 450 spaces fill up fast.
There are three restroom and changing-room blocks staggered throughout the park.
Petty thefts have occured here, so keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave valuables in your car.

How to Get There

Magic Island is located off Ala Moana Boulevard, in the southeast corner of the larger Ala Moana Beach Park. The park is bordered to the east by the Ala Wai Canal and Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, a departure point for some ocean-based tours, and to the west by Ala Moana Beach Park and Kewalo Basin. The centrally located park is about halfway between downtown Honolulu and Waikiki Beach. Bus lines 20, 23, and 42 stop nearby.

When to Get There

Magic Island is great to visit any time between its opening hours of sunrise and sunset—for a morning jog, afternoon picnic and sunbathing session, or sunset barbecue. Due to the park’s location on the island, expect calmer seas in summer months. Each March, the space is consumed with carnival rides and food booths for the three-day Magic Island Carnival.

Magic Island on Memorial Day

Hawaii has a unique Memorial Day tradition: Each year, thousands gather to remember and memorialize all lost loved ones by floating illuminated lanterns in the sea between Magic Island and Ala Moana Beach Park.

Magic Island, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA 96815, USA

From $ 40

Maligne Lake

With its vivid aquamarine waters and impressive backdrop of jagged, glacier-studded peaks, Maligne Lake has visitors to the Canadian Rockies reaching for their cameras. The glacier-fed lake is the largest in Jasper National Park. Tiny tree-topped Spirit Island stands in the middle of the lake and is the subject of countless postcards.

The Basics

As one of Alberta’s—and indeed Canada’s—most-hyped beauty spots, Maligne Lake is included on many sightseeing tours of the Jasper and Banff regions. Chauffeured sidecar and coach tours generally make stops at natural attractions such as Medicine Lake, Maligne Canyon, and other Rocky Mountain hot spots. Maligne Lake is also often included on the itinerary.

Some half and full-day sightseeing tours incorporate boat cruises on the lake, and guided nature and wildlife-watching walks around the lake. Several backcountry campgrounds, accessible by canoe, are located on the lake’s edge. Canoes can be rented from the Maligne Lake Boathouse.

Things to Know Before You Go

Moose, grizzly bears, and caribou are known to roam the regions near the lake, making it perfect for wildlife-viewers.
Maligne Lake is open to paddlers and electric motor boats only.
Dress in layers as sudden weather changes are common here.
Part, though not all, of the Mary Schäffer Loop, which winds around the shoreline, is paved and suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Maligne Lake is at the end of Maligne Lake Road, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Jasper. As there is no public transport in the area, the best way for car-free travelers to get here is by organized tour. Driving from Jasper will take about an hour.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Maligne Lake is between late May and early October, when boats and paddlers can go out on the water. Though the north part of the lake can become busy, quieter spots—accessible only on foot or by boat—can always be found to the south. In winter, the frozen lake is peaceful, attracting only a few hardy snowshoers, though road conditions in the park can sometimes make the lake difficult to access.

How to See Spirit Island

In theory, visitors can paddle or kayak to Spirit Island, though it’s about an 8.5-mile (14-kilometer) one-way journey and it can take the best part of a day. Unless you’re a fit, experience kayaker, and have booked a lakeside campsite to stay at, you’re better off doing a Maligne Lake cruise, which will get you out to within view of the island and back in just 90 minutes.

Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada

Adults: $9.80; Children: free

From $ 56

Majestic Yosemite Hotel (Ahwahnee Hotel)

Of all Yosemite’s lodging options, the Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly the Ahwahnee Hotel) stands out not only for its location—you can see Yosemite Falls from the legendary dining room—but also for its interior, redolent of Yosemite’s early years. And you don’t need to book a room to enjoy this National Historic Landmark.

The Basics

Visitors to Yosemite National Park who forego a room at this luxury hotel still have plenty of options for experiencing its grandeur. Perhaps the most popular is a meal in the spectacular dining room, open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Some guided tours of the national park include a dining room meal or fireside storytelling in the hotel. Free historic tours take visitors through the rooms, halls, and grounds to learn more about its storied past.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Majestic Yosemite Hotel is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to the park.
Tour and dining room reservations fill up early, so be sure to book well in advance.
Bring your camera, as the interior and exterior views are shot-worthy.
The hotel is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

If you’re not part of a guided tour, the easiest way to reach the hotel is to drive or ride your bike. It’s also a stop on the free year-round Yosemite Valley Shuttle System, departing from the Yosemite Village parking area and other spots around the park.

When to Get There

The Majestic Yosemite Hotel and dining room are open throughout the year. One of the best times for a meal is during the popular Sunday brunch, though it’s a good idea to book in the offseason to avoid the summer crowds.

Architecture of the Majestic Yosemite Hotel

In an effort to attract more affluent visitors to the park, this historic hotel was commissioned in the 1920s. Some 5,000 tons (4,536 metric tons) of stone, 30,000 feet (9,144 meters) of lumber, and 1,000 tons (907 metric tons) of steel were brought in for construction. The design takes inspiration from art deco, Native American, and Middle Eastern cultures, with details like stained glass windows, hand-woven tapestries, and hand-stenciled ceiling beams.

1 Ahwahnee Dr, Yosemite Natl Pk, CA 95389, USA

From $ 169

Malecón

Running 5 kilometers where the town meets the sea, the Malecón is a main road of La Paz. Lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, it is an energetic center of tourist activity. Its wide, clean boulevard is dotted with small sculptures, benches, and beachgoers, all with views of the sand and palm trees. It is a great place to take a peaceful stroll, though often you’ll be joined by those cycling or jogging the path.

The presence of vendors, musicians, and fisherman make it a lively hotspot to gather and take in the local culture. Often artists have their work on display by the small pier. It’s an especially good spot to grab a seafood lunch made with fresh ingredients from the surrounding waters. The Malecón also comes alive at night, beginning with the sunset that many come to view from the edge of the sand.

Practical Info

La Paz’s Malecón stretches from Playa Coromuel in the north to Marina de la Paz in the south.

Paseo Malecón, Zona Central, La Paz, Mexico

From $ 70

Majestic Theatre

New York City is known for its arts and culture and Midtown Manhattan is recognized as the hub for theatergoers who want to watch live performances of some of Broadway’s biggest shows. With 1645 seats the Majestic Theatre has served as the stage for some of the neighborhood’s most iconic shows including 42nd Street, as well as The Phantom of the Opera—the longest-running production in Broadway history.

Although travelers will need tickets to a show to actually check out the theater’s interior, visitors can still step inside the lobby and admire this Broadway gem from outside during a tour of Times Square.

Practical Info

The Majestic Theatre is located at 245 West 44th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues in Midtown Manhattan. It is accessible using the ACE subway lines to 42nd Street/Times Square. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m.

245 W 44th St, New York City, New York, USA 10036, USA

Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm and Sun 12pm-6pm

From $ 35

Maligne Canyon

Carved out of the limestone bedrock by a rushing river, this narrow and steep canyon—which reaches depths of up to 160 feet (50 meters)—is one of the most striking geological features of Jasper National Park. In summer, hikers flock here to follow trails that span the gorge, while in winter, the canyon freezes into an icy wonderland.

The Basics

During summer, Maligne Canyon is a popular hiking spot. Trails lead to footbridges that span the deepest sections of the canyon and offer views of waterfalls, fossils, and rock formations. Many guided summertime tours from Jasper make stops at the canyon, allowing visitors to explore independently or with a guide. Half-day and full-day summer tours often combine Maligne Canyon with other Canadian Rockies highlights, such as Medicine Lake, Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls, and Miette Hot Springs.

In winter, Maligne Canyon ice-climbing tours and ice walks are scheduled, allowing visitors to tread—usually with waterproof winter boots and ice cleats—along the icy surface of the canyon floor, seeing frozen waterfalls, ice caves, and icicles.

Things to Know Before You Go

Maligne Canyon is a must for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.
Though the hiking trails at Maligne Canyon are not wheelchair accessible, the Maligne Canyon Restaurant and Gift Shop (open May–October) is. An asphalt path near the restaurant leads to an accessible viewpoint.
The smooth bedrock of the canyon can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.

How to Get There

Maligne Canyon is situated in Jasper National Park, in Alberta, Western Canada. From the town of Jasper, follow Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) north and take the turnoff for Maligne Lake Road. The drive should take 15–20 minutes.

When to Get There

Maligne Canyon is busiest in summer. For a quieter experience, go in the off-season (mid-fall through late spring). In summer, you can avoid throngs of sightseers by hiking as far as the fifth or sixth canyon bridge, where crowds typically dissipate. Alternatively, set off early in the morning before most people arrive.

Hiking Trails at Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is a hiking hot spot, with routes to suit all schedules and fitness levels. From the upper canyon parking lot, follow a short (20- to 40-minute) route that crosses over the first and second bridges. Longer hikes leading through the lower canyon, and to the other bridges, are also possible. Interpretive signs around the canyon explain the geology of the area. If you want to explore the canyon floor, be sure to go with a guide who can ensure conditions are safe.

Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta, Canada, Canada

Varies

From $ 50

Mango's Tropical Cafe

One of Miami’s most delicious and vibrant attractions is Mango’s Tropical Cafe. Offering a quintessential dose of Miami flavor, this two-story nightclub boasts some of the city’s best live entertainment, especially as their shows display Miami’s melting pot culture. The decor has an outdoor beach vibe, with palm trees and tropical artwork, while the menu consists of simple yet tasty dishes like steak, burgers, and mahi mahi. The real draw to Mango’s, however, is the loud and lively entertainment, showcasing talented men and women in vibrant costumes dancing tango, salsa, reggae, congo, mariachi and even pulling out some Michael Jackson moves. Pair the experience with a mojito, caipirinha or Caribbean rum cocktail to really get to know the culture of the dances.

Conveniently, Mango’s Tropical Cafe is located across from Miami Beach. Just like at Miami Beach, you can expect beautiful people at the nightclub and restaurant and a party that seems to never end.

Practical Info

A great way to experience Mango’s Tropical Cafe is through a tour like Mango’s Cabaret-Style Dinner and Show in Miami Beach. The show begins at 8pm, and mixes Latin American, Middle Eastern and American song, dance and cultures. During the show, you’ll enjoy a delicious two-course meal with a shared appetizer and personal entree. Not tired yet? Mango’s Tropical Cafe has two upstairs nightclubs open until 5am.

900 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL, USA

Daily: 11am to 5am

Starting at 8pm: $5 to $20

From $ 59