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Playa Uvas

Facing Cozumel’s white sands and turquoise waters, Playa Uvas beach club sits directly on the coast and offers a variety of activities and amenities. Active visitors will enjoy snorkel tours, parasailing, and kayaking, and there are lounge chairs, beachside massages, and pool facilities for those who simply want to relax in the sun.

The Basics

Of Cozumel’s private beach clubs, Playa Uvas is closest to downtown and the piers, making it easy for guests to reach the reefs of Chankanaab National Park. Tour options range from a day on the water in a catamaran to a day in the water scuba diving. All-terrain vehicle tours also stop at the club for visitors to snorkel. The property features a full bar and restaurant, as well as a small souvenir shop.

Things to Know Before You Go

The admission fee that the beach club charges to use its facilities includes a 30-minute guided snorkel tour with gear, and a free drink.
Tours typically cover entry fees to the beach club and marine park.
A VIP package is available, including an open bar, food, towel and locker, and a 30-minute massage.

How to Get There

Playa Uvas is on the west coast of the island, a short 10- to 15-minute taxi ride from downtown Cozumel or any of its piers. It’s about 25 minutes from the airport. Tours that include a stop at the beach club depart from the port or downtown Cozumel.

When to Get There

The beach club is open from 8am to 4pm. It tends not to get as crowded as other Cozumel beaches, but expect to encounter more visitors on weekends and whenever cruise ships are docked nearby. Stake out your spot early to snag one of the palapas on the beach.

Chankanaab National Park

Meaning “Little Sea” in Mayan, Chankanaab National Park’s name was inspired by its natural lagoon. One of the most popular attractions in Cozumel, the park offers diving and snorkeling tours, dolphin encounters, ziplining, and other activities. Huts, hammocks, and chairs are available on the beach. Because it’s only a 10-minute drive from the cruise ship terminal, the park is a favorite destination among cruise passengers.

Carretera costera sur Km. 8.5 s/n Carretera a Chankanaab, Cozumel, Mexico

Varies

From $ 65

Playa Palancar

Playa Palancar is a laid-back beach where you can swim, snorkel, or just relax in a hammock under the coconut-palm trees. It’s one of Cozumel’s most beautiful beaches, with fine white sand and access to an outstanding coral reef just offshore. For a relaxing beach day away from the crowded tourist spots, there’s no better place.

The Basics

While pretty Playa Palancar is surrounded by posh all-inclusives, it’s a public beach. There are several small restaurants and shops selling seafood, drinks, and souvenirs, as well as renting snorkeling equipment and organizing dives. Playa Palancar doesn’t have the party atmosphere or range of hotels and other services that some of the beaches closer to San Miguel do, but for family-friendly fun and fantastic views, it’s hard to do better on the island.

Visit Playa Palancar independently; boats wait to take snorkelers out to the reef, and you can rent equipment close by. Alternatively, go as part of a Cozumel sightseeing tour with hotel or port pickup and drop-off. Island tours typically also include a chocolate factory, a tequila tasting, and the San Gervasio Maya ruins.

Things to Know Before You Go

Playa Palancar is ideal for beach bums, snorkelers, and families with kids.
Remember to bring sun protection and water, as the beach offers little shade.
Bring cash—the bars, restaurants, and shops don’t accept debit or credit cards.
The beach offers basic facilities, including restrooms and outdoor showers.
Lounge chairs and beach umbrellas are available to rent.

How to Get There

Playa Palancar is located off the coastal highway, about 20 minutes south of the Cozumel Cruise Terminal. It’s well signed from Avenida Melgar; look for signs before the Costera Sur exits inland. There’s no public bus service (yet, but ask around to see if this has changed). If you hire a taxi to this more remote part of the island, be aware that you may need to wait a bit to get a taxi back to your hotel.

When to Get There

The beach is lovely year-round. Winter brings large numbers of travelers to Cozumel, and the weeks before and after Easter are some of the busiest. Yet even during high season, Playa Palancar is less crowded than other spots on the island.

Cozumel Maya Ruins

Close to the beach turnoff you’ll see signs for El Cedral Maya Ruins. El Cedral is the site of the first Maya settlement on Cozumel. The tiny Maya ruin, a fertility temple, is the size of a small house. It has some historic significance for locals, but fails to impress most visitors.

Avenida Rafael Melgar and the Costera Sur, Mexico

Free

From $ 51

Pittock Mansion

Once home to Henry and Georgiana Pittock, Portland’s original power couple, the Pittock Mansion sits on 46 acres (18.6 hectares) of land and contains exhibits featuring artwork and artifacts from the early 1900s. The house is perched on a hill 1,000 feet (305 meters) above downtown and offers sweeping views of Portland and the Cascade Range.

The Basics

Inside the French Renaissance–style mansion you can peruse the rooms and admire artworks such as glass sculptures, paintings, and handcrafted tiles. Outside, stroll through the grounds (known as Pittock Acres Park) and explore a large network of hiking trails.

Many full-day and half-day Portland city tours include a visit to Pittock Mansion along with other local attractions such as Nob Hill, the Pearl District, and Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Small-group tours offer a personalized experience, while some excursions also include round-trip transportation from downtown hotels.

Things to Know Before You Go

Pittock Mansion is a must-see for art, culture, and history lovers, and for keen hikers.
Snacks, drinks, and period-inspired souvenirs are available for purchase in the museum store. Remember to enjoy your food before entering the museum.
The house has a designated wheelchair-accessible entrance and elevator, although the Gate Lodge is not accessible.
Parking is available on-site.

How to Get There

Pittock Mansion is located near Arlington Heights on NW Pittock Drive, roughly 15 minutes by road from downtown Portland. From downtown, take the Trimet 20-Burnside/Stark bus to Beaverton TC and walk half a mile (0.8 kilometers) to the mansion. You can also get there by taxi, rental car, or as part of a guided tour.

When to Get There

The mansion is open from February through December and is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Summer is a lovely time to enjoy the grounds, when the weather is typically warm and sunny. During the Christmas season, the mansion’s festive holiday decorations are a must-see.

The Pittock Family Legacy

Henry Pittock’s business empire included the Oregonian newspaper, while Georgiana championed women’s rights and helped foster the city’s annual Rose Festival. In 1974, the house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and now attracts over 800,000 annual visitors.

3229 Northwest Pittock Drive, Portland, Oregon 97210, USA

Varies

From $ 60

Pioneer Square

Pioneer Square, where Seattle’s founders first settled in 1852, is a bustling district in the southwest corner of downtown Seattle. The shop- and nightlife-laden neighborhood takes its name from the small, triangular cobblestone plaza known as Pioneer Square Park, and features a bust of Chief Seattle, an ornate pergola, and a totem pole.

The Basics

Its streets lined with trees and restored Victorian buildings, Pioneer Square is listed on the Nation Register of Historic Places. During the day, the area buzzes with locals and visitors alike perusing the antique shops and art galleries. When you’re not shopping or marveling at cutting-edge art, visit the Seattle Underground, a network of underground passageways and basements that are remnants of the original buildings here, many of which were destroyed in the Great Seattle Fire in 1889. Come evening, Pioneer Square’s restaurant, bar, and nightclub scene takes over, making this one of Seattle’s hottest night spots.

Most Seattle walking and other sightseeing tours include a stop at Pioneer Square in combination with other nearby highlights such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chinatown, and the Smith Tower. The Seattle Underground tour takes you through the interconnected tunnels of the neighborhood.

Things to Know Before You Go

Walking tours are the best way to get to know the neighborhood’s history and cultural offerings.
Pioneer Square deserves two visits: one to patronize the local boutiques galleries during daylight hours, and one to sample the bustling nightlife.
Parking around Pioneer Square can be tough. Plan to join a guided tour with transportation or arrive via public transportation.

How to Get There

Pioneer Square, like the rest of downtown Seattle, is easily accessible by bus and streetcar. The neighborhood lacks definitive borders, but is bounded roughly by Alaskan Way South on the west, South King Street on the south, 5th Avenue South on the east, and between one and two blocks north of Yesler Way. Nearby are the International District, Waterfront Park, and Union Station.

When to Get There

Pioneer Square offers different pleasures at different times of day: boutiques and historical landmarks during the day, and a buzzy nightlife scene after dark. Most locals would recommend visiting Seattle from June to September; the city lives up to its rainy reputation for the remainder of the year.

Klondike Gold Rush History

During the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897 to ’98, Pioneer Square was a hot spot for “stampeders” heading up to Alaska. Their stopover business is part of what made the neighborhood prosperous. Now the area is host to part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park; the other part of the park is located in Skagway, Alaska.

Cherry Street and 1st Avenue South, Seattle, USA

Free

From $ 19

Plymouth

Plymouth, a quintessentially New England spot with a 400-year-old legacy, set the stage for the very first American Thanksgiving. From Plymouth Rock to the Mayflower II and the famous Grist Mill, this Massachusetts town exudes charm throughout its many historical attractions.

The Basics

Conveniently located between Boston and Cape Cod in the northeastern U.S., Plymouth is best known for the iconic Plymouth Rock, where the pilgrims first landed. But in addition to its historical monuments and museums, the town also offers a vibrant arts scene, beaches, parks, gardens, farmers’ markets, whale watching, and wildlife sanctuaries, as well as great dining and shopping.

Start your visit at the Visitors’ Center, where you can pick up a map and information about area events and attractions. Most people visit Plimoth Plantation, followed by the Plimoth Grist Mill, the Mayflower II, and Plymouth Rock (which is next to the ship). Be sure to grab a signature New England lobster roll before you head out of town.

Things to Know Before You Go

Plymouth is a must-do destination for history buffs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to tour some of the original New England area homes of the Mayflower passengers, including Harlow Old Fort House, Hedge House, Richard Sparrow House and others.
Plan to spend at least half a day exploring this area.

How to Get There

Plymouth is 60 miles (97 kilometers) southeast of Boston, about a 1.5-hour drive away. From Boston, take I-93 South to MA-3 South (Pilgrims Highway). Exit toward Plymouth Center. Don’t feel like driving? You can also take the Plymouth & Brockton Commuter Bus to the Mayflower Link.

When to Get There

Plymouth hosts several free concerts and outdoor events in summer, and the area can get crowded during these months. Fall is an excellent time to visit; you’ll get ideal temperatures, vivid foliage, and fewer crowds. During the Cranberry Harvest Festival in October, you can visit nearby cranberry bogs, enjoy cooking demonstrations, participate in family-friendly activities, and more.

Interesting Facts About Plymouth

In 1614, Captain John Smith named Plymouth for its resemblance to the Plymouth in Devon, England. Today the stateside Plymouth is home to First Parish Church, a church that has celebrated more than 400 years of continuous membership, the longest assembled church in the nation.

Plymouth, Massachusetts 02360, USA

From $ 85

Playa Delfines

Playa Delfines is a welcome respite from the crowded beaches and bustling nightclubs that make Cancun a popular Spring Break destination. One of the highest points in the city, this beach lies just beyond the “Hotel Zone” strip and offers breathtaking views perfect for tropical vacation photo ops. The quiet stretch of sand is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing lounge and the untouched nature of Playa Delfines makes it a favorite among travelers eager to get off the beaten path. Be advised, its rustic feel means there are few places to purchase food or drink, so it’s best to pack your own. And while the shores are calm, the undercurrent can be rough and waves impressive, so proceed with caution when dipping your toes in the ocean here.

Practical Info

Playa Delfines is about 18 kilometers from El Centro and accessible by taxi or local bus from the ADO station. The beach also offers free public parking, though spots can be hard to find.

Cancun, Mexico

From $ 15

Plimoth Plantation

The Plimoth Plantation is a living history museum that attempts to portray the first colony of English settlers to arrive in the New World in the 1600s. You’ll meet historical reenactors who speak and look the way the Pilgrims did as you explore the faithful recreation of a chapter in American history at a Smithsonian-affiliated museum.

The Basics

The Plimoth Plantation museum is spread out among three separate sites that all charge separate admission fees: the Plimoth Plantation, the Mayflower II, and the Plimoth Grist Mill. At the main plantation site, you’ll explore a working English village and meet with historical reenactors, following the Pilgrims’ journey from March through November 1627 and witnessing key moments in their lives during that year. You can also visit the Wampanoag Homesite, a recreation of 17th-century Wampanoag life featuring indigenous interpreters rather than role players.

Things to Know Before You Go

Save money by purchasing your pass in advance—and save even more by bundling it with other area attractions
There are three museum shops, as well as the on-site Patuxet Cafe.
Plan to spend about two to three hours exploring this attraction.
If you plan to bring a stroller, jogging strollers work best on the terrain.

How to Get There

From Boston, take Route 93 South to Route 3 South. Take exit 4 (Plimoth Plantation Highway) off Route 3. Continue on Plimoth Plantation Highway for 1 mile (1.6 kilometer) and take the exit for the museum. Free parking is available on-site. You can also take the Plymouth & Brockton Commuter Bus, which stops at exit 5 Visitor Center.

When to Get There

Plimoth Plantation is open from mid-March through November, and there are regular seasonal programs, such as corn planting and harvesting. The attraction tends to be more crowded in summer and fall; spring is ideal if you want to avoid the crowds. From May to June and October to November, school groups frequently visit; if you visit during these months, plan to start to later in the afternoon.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

At the Plymouth Waterfront, home of the Mayflower II, you’ll find “Should I Stay or Should I Go?,” an interactive exhibit that challenges kids and adults alike to play the role of a Pilgrim journeying across the Atlantic Ocean in 1620. You’ll be encouraged to think through the decisions the original colonists faced when considering whether to trek to a new land.

137 Warren Ave, Plymouth, Boston, USA

Varies

From $ 57

Playa Norte

Playa Norte (North Beach) is a gorgeous, relaxing beach located on Isla Mujeres, a small island off the Yucatan Peninsula. Isla Mujeres means the “Island of Women,” but both women and men will love lounging at Playa Norte.

Known for its many palm trees and white sand beach, Playa Norte stretches along the northern end of Isla Mujeres, where beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rental. Though its water is shallow, swimmers need to be aware that there can sometimes be a strong undertow; swim with caution. Experienced swimmers and snorkelers will enjoy paddling around to see the underwater sea life, and onsite shops have snorkeling gear to rent along with kayaks and stand up paddle boards.

In addition to water activities, Playa Norte is also home to a slew of fun beach bars and restaurants. Take a minute away from the beach for a tropical drink or some fresh seafood.

Practical Info

Playa Norte and the rest of Isla Mujeres is easily accessible from Cancun with daily boats leaving frequently from several different harbors, with some departing every half hour.

Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, The Yucatan, Mexico

From $ 54

Plimoth Grist Mill

Journey back to the time of America’s original settlers with a visit to Massachusetts' historic Plimoth Grist Mill. This working mill was built some 200 years ago, and still operates today, offering visitors a hands-on history lesson perfect for families and kids. Take a tour to learn how the water-powered mill was constructed and the process by which it turns ground local corn into delicious meal. The onsite gallery’s interactive exhibits feature knot tying and corn grinding with mortar and pestle for anyone ready to get their hands down and dirty.

While this historic mill is worth a stop all its own, combo tickets that include the nearby Mayflower II and Plimoth Plantation round out the New England experience.

Practical Info

The grist mill is located near the Town Brook and the scenic waterfront, as well as within close proximity to the Mayflower II. It is open 9am to 5pm daily between late March to the Sunday after Thanksgiving. It is closed during the winter season.

6 Spring Ln, Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA

9am–5pm daily (March–Nov)

From $ 28

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park offers myriad options for enjoying the Caribbean Sea, whether you want to swim in the warm ocean, enjoy a massage, zip down water slides, or float in one of the park’s many pools. Here you can find beachfront lounge chairs and hammocks, a buffet and full bar, and even an underwater Maya city to explore.

The Basics

Playa Mia Beach Park is an ideal place to relax and enjoy Cozumel’s ample sunshine. A day pass offers access to the water park, beachfront lounge chairs, and use of kayaks, sailboats, paddle boats, and other water gear. You can choose to upgrade your ticket to an all-inclusive option, which offers an international buffet and open bar. It’s also possible to visit Playa Mia as part of a Cozumel snorkeling tour, during which you can explore some of the island’s vibrant coral reefs.

Things to Know Before You Go

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is an great for families with kids.

Remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, and towels.

There is an onsite shopping center offering handicrafts, clothes, and jewelry.

How to Get There

Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is located on the island of Cozumel, off the coast of Playa del Carmen on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Ferries to Cozumel typically leave every half hour from Playa del Carmen and arrive at San Miguel, the island’s main town and cruise ship port. From San Miguel, it takes roughly 25 minutes to get to Mr. Sancho’s by road. Taxis, rental cars, and scooters are easy ways to travel on the island.

When to Get There

Playa Mia is open daily from 9am to 6pm. The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms. Arrive early to grab a beach chair close to the water.

Family-Friendly Activities at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

Kids can enjoy the water park’s 200-foot-long (61-meter-long) Twin Twister water slides, a colorful playground, and Buccaneer's Bay, which features a pint-sized pirate ship and water cannons. Beach activities such as volleyball and water balloon tossing are also an option.

Carretera Costera Sur Km 15, Cozumel, Mexico

Varies

From $ 30

Place Royale

The passing of centuries has had little impact on this cobbled 17th-century plaza, which has been at the center of Quebec City life since Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608. The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, the oldest stone church in North America, still stands here, and the Fresque des Québécois mural can be seen nearby.

The Basics

With its cobbled surfaces and centuries-old stone-brick buildings, Place Royale’s film-set good looks make it one of Canada’s most charming squares. Almost all sightseeing tours of Old Quebec, whether done by foot or by bike, include Place Royale on their itinerary, alongside other historical city landmarks, such Place d’Armes, Chateau Frontenac, and the Plains of Abraham. Hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses also stop near the square.

Things to Know Before You Go

As the birthplace of New France, Place Royale is a must-see for history-buffs.
The ground at Place Royale is cobbled and uneven and is best suited to able-bodied travelers.
Allow some time to explore the boutiques dotting the square.
Bring a camera as the square makes for a picturesque backdrop.

How to Get There

Place Royale is located in Quebec’s Lower Town (Basse-Ville) and is just a short walk from Quebec City Ferry Terminal. To get there from the Gare du Palais train station, ride the number 1 or 11 buses.

When to Get There

Place Royale is located within Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From May through October, many tourists descend on this part of the city, often from cruise ships, and the square can get busy. If you want to photograph the square without the crowds, get there early in the day.

The Mural

North of the square just off Notre-Dame Street (Rue Notre-Dame) sits the large Fresque des Québécois mural, which covers the entire side of a 5-story building. The mural references the history of Quebec City, with some 30 notable figures included in it, among them former political leaders, artists, and writers.

27 rue Notre-Dame, Old Lower Town, Quebec City, Canada

From $ 15

Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach)

Playa del Amor - or Lover's Beach - is a true hidden gem, nestled amongst the craggy rocks of Land’s End.

Reached only by boat, this perfect crescent of sand is surrounded by rocky outcrops, including views of El Arco.

The secluded location is a romantic destination for a day by the sea, the lovely stretch of sand extending across the Land’s End peninsula from the Sea of Cortes to the Pacific Ocean.

The water here is dangerous, so take care if you go for a swim or snorkel, and only enter the water on the Sea of Cortes side of the beach.

Practical Info

Playa del Amor is on Land’s End, washed by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sea of Cortes on the other. The beach can only be reached by cruise or water taxi from Cabo San Lucas.

Sol Mar, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico

Free

From $ 15

Place d'Armes

Place d’Armes, meaning parade square, is a major public venue in Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal). The picturesque plaza is bordered by some of Montreal’s most notable architectural landmarks, including the 17th-century Saint-Sulpice Seminary, the Gothic Revival-style Notre-Dame Basilica, and the art deco Aldred Building.

The Basics

Many Montreal walking, biking, and sightseeing coach tours come to Place d’Armes so visitors can see the historic structures that surround the square. Most walking tours of Old Montreal follow routes that incorporate Place d’Armes and other historic attractions in the area, such as the Old Port, Place Jacques-Cartier, Ramezay Castle (Chateau Ramezay), and Bonsecours Market.

Things to Know Before You Go

Place d’Armes is a must-visit for architecture fans, with many landmark buildings from different eras lining the square.
Bring a camera: The square offers some of the finest views of Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica.
Wheelchair users can access the square via the Place-d’Armes Metro station. The square’s main attraction, Notre-Dame Basilica, is also wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

To get to Place d’Armes, take the Metro Orange Line to the Place-d’Armes station. The square is just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront Old Port.

When to Get There

Visit in summer or fall, when it’s warm enough to linger and take some time to admire the surrounding sights. The square is also appealing at night when the facade of the basilica is strategically lit, highlighting its exterior architectural features. On select nights, the basilica hosts an interior light show, which use lighting design and sound to showcase the beauty of the basilica’s artwork and interior decoration.

Place d’Armes Architecture

Next to the basilica is the Saint-Sulpice Seminary. Built in 1687 by Catholic Sulpicians, Saint-Sulpice Seminary is the second-oldest building in Montreal. On another side of the square sits the red sandstone 8-story New York Life Insurance Building—built in the late 1880s and considered to be Montreal’s first skyscraper—and the Aldred Building, a 23-story 1931 art deco gem that bears a strong resemblance to the Empire State Building in New York.

Montréal, QC H2Y, Canada

From $ 19

Plazuela Machado

The heart of the historic district is this leafy rectangular plaza, with leafy trees and palm trees both in place, many buildings painted bright colors. It is lined by restaurants, shops, and museums, plus the Angela Perlata theater is nearby, making this a good place to linger from lunch time onward. Built in 1837 by the wealthy businessman it was named after, in the center is a wrought iron gazebo from 1870.

It’s a hub of activity, especially at night when there’s frequently live music coming from stages on the plaza or performers outside the restaurant tables on the sidewalks. By day there are a few small museums worth a visit. It’s easy to walk from here to other central Mazatlan attractions that are on the edge of the historic district, such as the main square, basilica, and central market.

Mexico

From $ 30

Please Touch Museum

Families visiting Philadelphia with kids won’t want to skip the Please Touch Museum, which has been the children’s museum of Philadelphia since 1976. The guiding principle of the museum is teaching through play, and it offers a multitude of engaging hands-on activities for young people. The 157,000-square-foot site has six unique zones over two floors, like Wonderland, where kids can have a tea party with the Mad Hatter, and Flight Fantasy, where kids learn about historic and futuristic flying machines. They can even play George Washington, sailing a boat on a mini Delaware River. There are also four areas designated specially for children under 3 years old, making the Please Touch Museum a spot for kids of any age.

Practical Info

The Please Touch Museum is located in historic Memorial Hall, about 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Philadelphia in Fairmount Park. The best time to visit is in the afternoons, or on Mondays, when school groups won’t be around. The site is open seven days a week and is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. On-site parking is available.

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, USA 19131, USA

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm

$17

From $ 32

Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

For many travelers, Planet Hollywood Las Vegas offers the best of many worlds. Its mid-Strip location makes it the ideal hub for anyone wanting to explore a little bit of everything on Las Vegas Boulevard; The Cosmopolitan is right across the street, and CityCenter, Bellagio and Paris Las Vegas are only a short walk away. It’s a mid-range hotel—affordable but not cheap, cool and classy but not extravagant—and its vibe attracts a fun, high-energy crowd without offending multi-generational families or couples celebrating a honeymoon.

Planet Hollywood is home to about ten restaurants, a 100,000-square-foot casino and a handful of theatres including V Theatre. In addition to a few low-on-the-radar shows, Planet Hollywood usually has at least one legendary artist performing on a short residency (Meat Loaf, The Jacksons and CeeLo Green have been past artists) and is now home to pop star Britney Spears and her show “Britney: Piece of Me.”

Wrapped around Planet Hollywood is the Miracle Mile, a shopping mall with 170 stores and 15 additional restaurants. Stores feature known brand names such as H&M, Urban Outfitters, Puma, Diesel and American Apparel. Despite the fact that Bellagio is just across the street, the Miracle Mile has its own fountain show, which features lighting effects, color-changing fog and water that shoots 50 feet in the air.

3667 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109, USA

From $ 10

Playacar

Playacar is a gated community just south of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, which is known for its all-inclusive resorts and private beachfront villas. It's ideal for those who want to stay right on the sand and still be close to the excitement of Fifth Avenue. Playacar’s wide and not-too-crowded beaches are some of the nicest in Playa.

The Basics

Playacar's resorts have gourmet restaurants, gorgeous pools, and offer a wide range of amenities for a relaxing and luxurious stay. Some of the big names that you’ll find here include Riu, Palace, and Occidental. Carved into the jungle, Playacar’s challenging 18-hole golf course is one of the top courses on the Riviera Maya. The neighborhood is also home to a bird aviary, an open-air shopping plaza, and a small group of Maya ruins.

Things to Know Before You Go

English is widely spoken in almost all of the Playacar tourist areas.
Bring sun protection and a hat or sunglasses, as the streets, golf course, and beaches offer little shade.
Set aside some time to walk or take a taxi into the downtown area to shop and experience Fifth Avenue.

How to Get There

Most visitors to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula arrive at Cancun International Airport, which is 45 to 60 minutes north of Playacar by car depending on traffic. If you’re vacationing in Playacar, chances are your resort will offer transportation options, or you can book a shuttle from the airport or rent a car there. Taxis are readily available to take visitors to and from Playa del Carmen’s bus station and downtown.

When to Get There

Playacar can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, and the weeks before and after Easter are some of the busiest. Other times of the year are less crowded. From May to October, expect higher-than-average humidity and a chance of wet weather.

Plaza Playacar

If you love to shop and want a mall experience that differs from what you’ll find back home, you don’t have to go any farther than Plaza Playacar. This small open-air Spanish colonial–style mall is full of shops that guarantee authenticity and quality. In addition to artisan crafts and Maya clothing and embroidery, you’ll also find T-shirts, key chains, and other souvenirs.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

From $ 59

Plains of Abraham

Part of Battlefields Park, this grassy expanse was the setting for a major military clash in 1759, which led to the British takeover of New France—a battle that is well-documented in the Plains of Abraham Museum. The park is an outdoor playground for Quebec City residents who come here to stroll, cycle, jog, sled, and cross-country ski.

The Basics

The Plains of Abraham is one of the most important historical sites in Quebec City and also doubles as a popular recreational space. Delve into the region’s history at the Plains of Abraham Museum, which hosts an exhibition detailing the battles fought on this site. The park is dotted with military remnants, including cannons and a British-built Martello tower.

The plains are a common stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours of Quebec City. They can also be seen from above during helicopter tours, which fly over Old Quebec (Vieux Quebec), the St. Lawrence River, and, depending on the selected route, other sights in the region, such as Montmorency Falls.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Plains of Abraham are a must-visit for history buffs.
Guided tours of the site begin at the Plains of Abraham Museum, which has a gift shop and exhibitions detailing the history of the site.
The museum is wheelchair accessible and select paved trails around the park are also suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The Plains of Abraham is situated within Battlefields Park in Quebec City. The most scenic approach is on foot from the Chateau Frontenac hotel: Follow Dufferin Terrace (Terrasse Dufferin) and the Promenade des Gouverneurs riverside boardwalk east to reach the plains.

When to Get There

The best time to come is between July and September, when Battlefields Park hosts many special activities, including guided bus tours, special guided tours by lantern, and an exhibition in the Martello tower. In early October, the park is full of colorful fall foliage, while in winter, it is a magnet for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

Plains of Abraham Nearby Sights

Bundle a park visit with one or two other nearby attractions. Bordering the park is the Citadel of Quebec, a military fortress that hosts tours and museums. To the north of the park is the National Museum of Fine Arts (Musée National des Beaux-Arts), which contains a permanent collection of more than 38,000 works, including pieces from Quebec art legends such as Jean-Paul Riopelle and Inuit artwork from Nunavik, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.

835 Wilfrid-Laurier Avenue, Quebec City, Canada

From $ 32

Plaza Garibaldi

The streets of Mexico City come alive with music, performance and mariachi at Plaza Garibaldi. This historic square is the destination for live local music in the capital city. Visitors can cozy up to the bar at one of the numerous tequila joints that line the streets of Plaza Garibaldi, or settle in to an outdoor table and enjoy the hustle of urban life while mariachi bands weave between patrons while playing traditional tunes. The nearby Museum of Tequila and Mezcal, just behind the Agave Garden, is a perfect stop to learn more about Mexico’s most famous spirit and solo musicians frequently perform in the upstairs bar and tasting room.

While some argue the plaza’s high prices and petty crime make it a true tourist trap, good drink deals are easy to find and increased security has improved the look, feel and safety of this popular destination.

Practical Info

Plaza Garibaldi is located between Calle Republica de Honduras and Calle Republica de Peru on Eje Central, just north of the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The Plaza comes alive at night, but this is also the time when pickpockets come out. Be mindful of belongings and surroundings to avoid theft.

Plaza Garibaldi, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, FD, Mexico

From $ 44

Pismo Beach

Located half way between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Pismo Beach is a classic California beach town. With more than 20 miles of wide sandy beaches, there are plenty of places to play or get comfortable for a nice afternoon nap. From surfing and swimming, to kayaking and fishing, the surf provides plenty of ways to fill your day. Water temperatures range from the low to upper 50s (Fahrenheit degrees), so bring your wetsuit or plan on renting one when you arrive, if getting wet is in your future.

The biggest of a string of coastal towns in Central California, Pismo Beach is relaxed, with small-town charm. Its location makes exploring along the coast easy. Ride ATVs or take a Hummer tour in the Oceano Sand Dunes, go tidepooling in Cayucos, or visit the Central Coast Aquarium in Avila. Moderate weather makes most outdoor activities possible all year round.

Practical Info

One important key to enjoying Pismo Beach is knowing the dress code—casual layers. Wear or have plenty of layers handy. You can always peel them off if you don’t need them. Summer is the busiest time of year to visit, but if your schedule allows, many locals say fall is their favorite time of year.

Pismo Beach, California, USA, USA

From $ 124