Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
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Rideau Hall
Rideau Hall is the residence of the Governor General of Canada, and because of the country’s status as a member of the Commonwealth, is also where the monarch stays when visiting Ottawa. Rideau Hall was built in 1838 by the lumber baron Thomas MacKay and eventually became the official residence for the Canadian head of state in 1867. Most of the 175 rooms in the federal heritage building are used for state business, formal ceremonies and functions, with only a small space being dedicated to living quarters.
The grounds are just as historical as the stately mansion and represent Canada’s character and cultural diversity to the core. During the summer months the hourly changing of guard ceremony can be observed at the main gate. A characteristically colorful totem pole with a thunderbird gracing the top and a fisherman holding a salmon stands in the garden as a gift from the Kwakwaka´wakw people in the Pacific Northwest. The estate also houses an Inukshuk, an impressive Inuit stone marker originating in the Arctic, that is supposed to guide travellers and mark important spots. It is the work of Kananginak Pootoogook, a well-known Inuk sculptor from Nunavut, and was added in 1997. Among the beautiful gardens made up of flowerbeds, rose gardens and lawns, over 10,000 trees can be found, many of which have been planted by foreign dignitaries. Try to find the Red Oak planted by Jacqueline Kennedy, Nelson Mandela’s Sugar Maple or the Canadian Hemlock chosen by William and Kate to symbolize their love and marriage. If you visit in winter, make sure to not forget your skates, as an outdoor skating rink is accessible to the public on weekends.
Practical Info
Rideau Hall is located just outside of downtown Ottawa and if you plan to get there by public transport, take bus number 9 to Government House. If you are arriving by car, you will find parking available along the streets of the surrounding neighborhood. The state rooms can be visited on free 45 minute tours, some of which need reservations ahead of time. The grounds are open daily from 8am to one hour before sunset and the visitor center is staffed from May to October.
Address: 1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Canada
From $ 84
River Arts District
There was once a time, not too long ago, where the River Arts District was one of Asheville’s least desirable areas. Abandoned warehouses lined a riverfront that was frequently laden with trash, and the only sign of economic life was the train pulling into the station. Today, after a massive artistic and creative resurgence, new life has been breathed into the district on the banks of the French Broad River, and where empty warehouses and buildings once stood, there are now spectacular studios full of sculptors, glass blowers, woodworkers, and painters. When visiting Asheville’s River Arts District, peruse the 180 studios that line the narrow streets, or stop for a drink at the ferociously popular microbrewery, The Wedge. At the city’s best restaurant for barbecue—12 Bones—enjoy your meal by the banks of the river that flows through the center of town, and watch as tubers, kayakers, and paddleboards all navigate the gently flowing waters. You can stop by a local farmers’ market by day and enjoy live music by night, and the River Arts District is the funkiest district in the funkiest town in the South.
Practical Info
Clingman Avenue is the main thoroughfare in the River Arts District, which is about one mile from downtown and accessible by vehicle or foot. Parking can sometimes be challenging in summer, and nearly all the business are open by day—whereas evenings are virtually deserted.
Address: Asheville, North Carolina, USA
From $ 20
Riverside Park
A four-mile strip of elegant public green space between the Hudson River and Riverside Drive on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, this designated scenic landmark was first proposed in 1865, laid out in 1910 (using designs by Frederick Law Olmstead), re-designed in the 1930s by Robert Moses (who incorporated an underground train tunnel still in use by Amtrak), and enlarged by Donald Trump in the 1990s.
In addition to purely scenic paths landscaped with trees, flowers, terraces and bridges, the park includes a wide variety of recreational options, like baseball diamonds, basketball, tennis and handball courts, skate ramps, kayak and canoe launch sites, playgrounds, and fitness paths. As part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, the park contains car-free bike routes, and its 110-slip public marina at 79th Street is part of New York State’s Water Trail.
There are several graceful monuments within the park, including Grant’s Tomb, at West 122nd Street. This Grecian rotunda with ionic columns, visible from the Hudson River, contains the actual tombs of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia Dent Grant.
In addition to purely scenic paths landscaped with trees, flowers, terraces and bridges, the park includes a wide variety of recreational options, like baseball diamonds, basketball, tennis and handball courts, skate ramps, kayak and canoe launch sites, playgrounds, and fitness paths. As part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, the park contains car-free bike routes, and its 110-slip public marina at 79th Street is part of New York State’s Water Trail.
There are several graceful monuments within the park, including Grant’s Tomb, at West 122nd Street. This Grecian rotunda with ionic columns, visible from the Hudson River, contains the actual tombs of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia Dent Grant.
Address: USA
Hours: Open Mon-Thu, 12 - 11pm; Fri-Sun, 11am - 11pm
From $ 71
Roaring Camp Railroads
See the California redwoods the way loggers did in the 1800s at Roaring Camp Railroads, which operates two train routes from its starting point in the forest just north of Santa Cruz. The authentic steam engines date back to 1890 and are some of the oldest and best preserved in the United States.
The Basics
There are two routes to choose from, depending on the time of year. The Redwood Forest Steam Train chugs through redwood groves from Roaring Camp to the summit of Bear Mountain; the round-trip journey takes more than an hour.
In spring, summer, and fall, the Santa Cruz Beach Train rolls through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, across a 1909 steel truss bridge, and through an 1875 tunnel to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk; you can go on a round-trip ride, or go one way in either direction.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parking is available for a fee.
- Wheelchairs are available to rent at the ticket office.
- You can buy food at Roaring Camp or bring your own; picnic tables are available to rent.
- The trains have both covered and open-air passenger cars; if you opt for open-air seating, bring a jacket and consider bringing sound-blocking headphones for babies and young children.
How to Get There
Roaring Camp is located in the small town of Felton, a short drive inland from Santa Cruz via Graham Hill Road. From San Jose, it’s a longer drive via State Route 17.
When to Get There
Depending on the season and day of the week, the Redwood Forest train departs once a day or up to four times a day at varying times. The beach train departs Roaring Camp twice a day and the boardwalk twice a day. While the beach train does not run during the winter, a Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train is offered on select days.
Themed Rides
Roaring Camp Railroads hosts a series of themed train rides and events during the year, such as a Moonlight Train Dinner Party and Great Train Robberies. If you’re traveling with kids, check out the Thomas the Tank Engine events in the summer and fall; these are limited-time train rides and are very popular, so make sure to buy those tickets early.
Address: 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, California 95018, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Robson Street
Locals and visitors alike flock to Robson Street for shopping, dining, and people watching. It’s the biggest retail street in the city with department stores, chain stores, and high-end shops, plus a variety of eateries, all located near downtown Vancouver’s attractions and waterfront.
The Basics
Whether or not you’re in the mood for shopping, chances are good you’ll end up on Robson Street at some point during your time in Vancouver. Many city tours include a stop here for free time to look around and get something to eat; for independent sightseeing, opt for the hop-on hop-off tour. Popular shops include Nordstrom, Zara, and Lululemon (which was founded in Vancouver), while luxury brands like Prada, Burberry, and Tory Burch can be found a block over on Alberni Street.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Robson Street is good for those who like big-city bustle.
- Several paid parking lots are available along Robson Street.
- City tours typically last from two to four hours with limited time on Robson Street; consider taking a tour at the beginning of your trip to get oriented before going back to Robson on your own.
How to Get There
Robson Street cuts through central Vancouver’s West End district from Stanley Park on the northwest end to Beatty Street on the southeast end. The main shopping and dining strip runs between Granville and Denman streets. Via public transportation, take bus 5 or get off the SkyTrain at the Vancouver City Centre station or Burrard station.
When to Get There
One of Robson Street’s biggest events is the Vancouver Pride Parade, which takes place in the summer, as well as Canada Day celebrations on July 1. The area is also particularly popular during the British Columbia Lions’ football season, which runs from June to November, when games are played at BC Place Stadium at the eastern end of Robson Street.
Stanley Park
Heading northwest on Robson Street, you’ll come to Stanley Park, one of Vancouver’s top attractions. Allow yourself time to explore the Seawall, various gardens, the Totem Poles, Brockton Point Lighthouse, or the Vancouver Aquarium.
Address: Between Burrard and Denman Streets, West End, Vancouver, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Rideau Canal
Built between 1826 and 1832 to offer secure passage for British ships from Montreal, the Rideau Canal—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is an engineering masterpiece. It extends for 126 miles (202 kilometers) between Ottawa and Kingston. Ottawa’s most visited stretch lures boaters, cyclists, and strollers in summer, and ice skaters in winter.
The Basics
Ottawa visitors will almost certainly encounter the Rideau Canal at some point during their trip, as the waterway cuts right through the heart of Canada’s capital city and is visible from Parliament Hill. Bike tours of the city often follow the Rideau Canal Pathways, which extend along both sides of the canal, and many walking tours include a visit to the canal’s edge. You can also embark on Rideau Canal sightseeing cruises, or join a kayak or canoe excursion. In winter, rent skates and glide around the vast, well-maintained Rideau Canal Skateway, formed by a cordoned-off part of the canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bike and boat tours on the canal run from May through October.
- If you’re going in winter, bundle up, as temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
- Fishing is allowed on some parts of the waterway, including Dow’s Lake. An Ontario fishing permit and outdoors card are required.
How to Get There
If you’re staying in downtown Ottawa, the best way to reach the canal is on foot. From Ottawa’s main train station, ride the 61 bus. Alternatively, a taxi from the station will take 15 to 20 minutes.
When to Get There
Ottawa’s peak visiting periods are January, February, and June to August. Even during its busiest times, the canal rarely feels crowded. If you want to see it at its most peaceful, go early in the morning.
Rideau Canal Skateway
Every winter, a 4.8-mile (7.8-kilometer) stretch of the frozen Rideau Canal transforms into an open-air ice-skating rink. Designated the world’s largest naturally frozen skate rink by the Guinness World Records, the hugely popular Rideau Canal Skateway attracts an average of 20,000 visitors per day. The skating season’s length and dates vary according to weather conditions, but typically the rink is open from January to the end of February or early March. You can rent skates from canal-side huts, some of which also sell hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and BeaverTails, a fried-dough pastry topped with cinnamon and sugar.
Address: Rideau Canal, Ottawa K1N 8S7, Canada
Admission: Free
From $ 18
Road to Tara Museum
Immerse yourself in Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler's enigmatic romance at the Road To Tara Museum, which brings to life Tara, the mythical plantation where Gone With the Wind takes place. Margaret Mitchell, the novel's author, created Tara based on the sprawling Victorian homes she saw in Clayton County, Georgia ,so today, Clayton County and the city of Jonesboro have been officially designated by the Georgia State Legislature as the "home of Gone With the Wind." Fittingly, the Road to Tara Museum is housed in the 1867 Train Depot in downtown historic Jonesboro.
At the museum visitors can see original props, wardrobe items and keepsakes from the 1939 Atlanta premiere of the feature film. The centerpiece is a large original oil mural depicting Rhett and Scarlett from the film, while additional oil paintings flank this large one. The museum also has an exhibit on the Civil War, featuring the Battle of Jonesboro.
Practical Info
The Road to Tara Museum is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult tickets cost $7, and the site is located in Jonesboro, Georgia off of Interstate 75.
Address: 104 N. Main Street, Jonesboro, Georgia, USA
Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults: $7, Seniors & Children: $6
From $ 55
Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino
If there’s one thing that sets Rio apart from all other Las Vegas resorts, it’s the fact that its casino plays host to the annual World Series of Poker (WSOP). Guests are welcome to play in Rio’s poker room, the only one in the world that features 100% certified WSOP dealers, where just about every poker game is available, from classics like hold ‘em and seven-card stud to 2-7 triple draw and badugi. There are five poker tournaments held in the poker room daily, with a variety of buy-ins at different times.
Beyond the poker room, Rio’s casino floor has dozens of tables featuring popular games including blackjack, craps, roulette and baccarat. The vast majority of the resort’s 1,200 slot machines are in a masquerade-themed, 100,000-square-foot space, where a series of floats glides over the crowd several times each Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening.
In addition to the Show in the Sky, Rio is home to a couple other popular Las Vegas shows. Penn & Teller is a humorous magic show with tricks requiring knives, guns and other curious items. Even though the “Bad Boys of Magic” are known for giving away the secrets to their tricks, audience members are still left wondering how they’re done. The Chippendales round out the perfect girls-night out with 12 sexy male dancers who perform for audiences five nights a week.
Beyond the poker room, Rio’s casino floor has dozens of tables featuring popular games including blackjack, craps, roulette and baccarat. The vast majority of the resort’s 1,200 slot machines are in a masquerade-themed, 100,000-square-foot space, where a series of floats glides over the crowd several times each Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening.
In addition to the Show in the Sky, Rio is home to a couple other popular Las Vegas shows. Penn & Teller is a humorous magic show with tricks requiring knives, guns and other curious items. Even though the “Bad Boys of Magic” are known for giving away the secrets to their tricks, audience members are still left wondering how they’re done. The Chippendales round out the perfect girls-night out with 12 sexy male dancers who perform for audiences five nights a week.
Address: 3700 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103, USA
From $ 30
Riverfront Park
Nashville’s Riverfront Park was built in the early 1980s on the site where the area’s first settlers founded the city back in 1780. Today the sprawling green enclave on the banks of the Cumberland River is home to several attractions, including Fort Nashborough, Bicentennial Park, and the Ascend Amphitheater.
The Basics
Riverfront Park’s prominent position on the riverfront near the heart of downtown Nashville makes it hard to miss. A visit is worthwhile for the fresh air and stunning views of the river and the Tennessee Titans’ Nissan Stadium across the way. Visitors and locals alike come for family fun, recreation, and relaxation, as well as for free summer concerts and festivals hosted throughout the year. Several tours of Nashville, including historic walking tours, horse and carriage rides, and evening sightseeing tours, make a stop at this popular park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Riverfront Park is a must for families and first-time visitors to Nashville.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
- To make the most of the park, wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Riverfront Park has a wheelchair- and stroller-accessible walkway along the Cumberland River.
How to Get There
Riverfront Park sits directly across First Avenue from downtown Nashville, just across the river from Nissan Stadium. The easiest way to get there is on foot.
When to Get There
Summer is one of the best times to visit Riverfront Park, especially if you’re interested in outdoor concerts and festivals. High temperatures in June, July, and August average just under 90°F (32°C), so plan to visit in the morning, late afternoon, or evening.
Fourth of July at Riverfront Park
Each Independence Day, Nashville hosts the largest fireworks show in the United States. A day of free concerts culminates in the epic pyrotechnics display, and Riverfront Park is perhaps the best seat in town for watching the spectacle.
Address: 100 1st Ave N, Nashville, Tennesssee 37201, USA
From $ 20
Rio Secreto Nature Reserve
Rio Secreto, or the “Secret River,” is a series of caves carved out by the flow of an ancient underground river in Mexico. While the reserve is most famous for its large half-sunken cavern—a popular diving spot—you can also explore eerie passageways, swim in the river, and admire dripping stalactites, stalagmites, and colorful mineral formations.
The Basics
Most Rio Secreto tours leave from Playa del Carmen, Cancun, Tulum, and other Riviera Maya destinations. At the nature reserve, you can tour the underground river, visit the famous Crystal Caves, and learn about ancient Maya legends. Combo tours combine a visit to Rio Secreto with other activities, such as an early-access visit to the Tulum ruins, a mountain biking excursion, or an ATV tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Rio Secreto Nature Reserve is a must-see attraction for nature lovers.
- The reserve is accessible by guided tour only.
- Bring water shoes to navigate the reserve’s rocky surfaces.
- Tours typically include a wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, towels, and use of lockers.
How to Get There
The Rio Secreto underground river is located in Playa del Carmen, in the Quintana Roo region of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. By road, it is roughly 20 minutes from downtown Playa del Carmen, 45 minutes from Tulum, and one hour from Cancun. Many tours include round-trip transportation from Riviera Maya hotels, but you can also get there by taxi, rental car, or shuttle bus.
When to Get There
Rio Secreto 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 if you plan to participate in outdoor activities.
What to See Near Rio Secreto
Mexico’s Caribbean Quintana Roo region is full of attractions, both natural and man-made. Nearby Playa del Carmen is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and shopping. The Maya ruins at Coba, with a 138-foot-high (42-meter-high) stone pyramid, are also a must-see. The archaeological sites of Tulum and Chichen Itza are also great spots to explore. For an island getaway, visit the shores of Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.
Address: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
From $ 46
Rio Grande Gorge
Surrounded by desert cliffs and volcanic lands, the Rio Grande winds through a gorge for 74 miles across the state of New Mexico. Once covered in lava by from nearby erupting volcanoes, the river flowed after a rift valley was formed by a geological separation in the earth’s crust. Part of it is the first designated National Wild and Scenic River, and it is a scenic spot to take part in water activities such as kayaking and whitewater rafting.
Outside of boating and fishing, hiking and biking are also popular outdoor activities in or around the gorge. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway system, with scenic views from high above on its observation platform. In some sections it drops more than 800 feet in depth. Views from the West Rim Trail (beginning on the west side of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge) are particularly dramatic.
Practical Info
The two best sections for visiting the gorge are its National Wild and Scenic portion, which begins at the New Mexico/Colorado state line, and from the gorge bridge. Taos is the town nearest to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. There’s also a Rio Grande Gorge Visitor Center located in Peñasco. River levels vary year-round.
Address: El Prado, USA
From $ 81
Riviera Maya
Travelers looking for large scale, all-inclusive resorts with epic views of the Mexican Caribbean coastline will find plenty of options in Riviera Maya. Stretching from Playa del Carmen in the north to Tulum in the south, this scenic stretch of sandy landscape is famous for its status as one of the top beach vacation destinations. While Riviera Maya is ripe with plenty of standard big-name resorts, visitors will also find charming and unique boutique hotels tucked among the sands, as well as private luxury villas and high-end yacht rentals.
Despite a serious number of tourists making their way to this coastal local, travelers will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in less crowded quarters. Whether it’s jet skiing or snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, zip-lining, riding horses or going on a tour of the nearby tropical jungle visitors have their pick of activities on both land and sea.
Practical Info
Riviera Maya is located along the Highway 307 near the Caribbean coastline in Quinta Roo on the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Address: Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 50
Robertson Boulevard
Arguably located in both Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, this tony commercial street offers some of the most tourist-friendly shopping and dining in L.A. Street parking can be scarce, but there’s a public lot between West 3rd Street and Alden offering two free hours.
Most of the retail clothing shops are set between West 3rd and Beverly Boulevard, with outposts of European lines like Paul & Joe, Allsaints, Ted Baker and Moods of Norway rubbing elbows with home-grown boutiques like the trendsetting Kitson. One of Robertson’s mainstays, Les Habitudes, has custom-created wedding dresses and other finery for some of Hollywood’s biggest female stars; a wander through its racks is a true flight of fancy.
While paparazzi linger outside the flower-draped picket fence at The Ivy restaurant at every meal, waiting to snap photos of the rich and famous, celebrities can often be seen for a cheaper price at The Newsroom, a healthy eatery set just across the street.
Two blocks down and across Beverly Boulevard is Petrossian, a famous caviar café from Paris, while closer to Melrose Avenue is the modern glitz of Cecconi (where you can see Beverly Hills rich kids brunching in the wild) and Sur, the chandelier-draped Mediterranean creation of Beverly Hills Housewife Lisa Vanderpump.
Most of the retail clothing shops are set between West 3rd and Beverly Boulevard, with outposts of European lines like Paul & Joe, Allsaints, Ted Baker and Moods of Norway rubbing elbows with home-grown boutiques like the trendsetting Kitson. One of Robertson’s mainstays, Les Habitudes, has custom-created wedding dresses and other finery for some of Hollywood’s biggest female stars; a wander through its racks is a true flight of fancy.
While paparazzi linger outside the flower-draped picket fence at The Ivy restaurant at every meal, waiting to snap photos of the rich and famous, celebrities can often be seen for a cheaper price at The Newsroom, a healthy eatery set just across the street.
Two blocks down and across Beverly Boulevard is Petrossian, a famous caviar café from Paris, while closer to Melrose Avenue is the modern glitz of Cecconi (where you can see Beverly Hills rich kids brunching in the wild) and Sur, the chandelier-draped Mediterranean creation of Beverly Hills Housewife Lisa Vanderpump.
Address: Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, USA
From $ 55
Rising Tide Brewing Company
Rising Tide Brewing Company serves up one of Portland, Maine's most beloved beers alongside live music and food trucks. The lively tasting room features artisan craft beers produced by the small-scale, family-owned brewing company, which has since grown to be one of the area's top brewers. There's a local feel to the taproom, and a long bar for tastings that looks into the production area.
Try four different beers on a tour of the brewery, or make an outing out of your visit on a craft drink tour through the city.
Practical Info
Rising Tide is located in the busy East Bayside neighborhood of Portland, Maine. It's open daily from noon to 7pm, but closes at 5pm on Sunday. Tours are given 1-3 times daily (after 3 pm) and last approximately one hour (closed toed shoes required). They do not take reservations in advance, but you can sign up to ensure your spot on a tour.
There is both indoor and outdoor seating; weather permitting it’s a lovely spot to sit outside. Free parking is available.
Address: 103 Fox St, USA
Hours: Mon–Sat: 12–7pm; Sun: 12–5pm
From $ 70
River Street Savannah
It is virtually impossible for Savannah visitors to miss River Street. A broad waterfront promenade lined with shopping, dining, and entertainment venues, River Street is one of the main arteries of the historic city. The street also features a pedestrian-only path, perfect for leisurely strolls with unbeatable Savannah River views.
The Basics
The best way to experience River Street is by foot, letting you easily and leisurely stop into its many inviting shops, bars, and restaurants. Some guided walking tours of Savannah’s historic district include River Street on their route, providing insight into the street’s history as a cotton warehouse district and highlighting other historic landmarks, such as the Waving Girl statue. Additionally look for River Street on the itinerary of Savannah ghost tours, which reveal spookier aspects of the street’s history, or on hop-on hop-off trolley tours, which let you stay on the thoroughfare as long as you’d like before continuing through downtown Savannah. For the most spectacular views, book a helicopter tour that flies over the Savannah River, River Street, and more.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Plan to spend up to a few hours on River Street.
- Explore with a guide to learn about the street’s past as one of the oldest areas in Georgia.
- Wear flat, comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones.
- A wheelchair accessible entrance is available through an elevator at the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
- River Street offers great nightlife as well as kid-friendly attractions.
How to Get There
River Street is located below the level of the rest of Savannah’s downtown, and is accessible by a series of stairways and ramps from East Bay Street. Though you can drive to River Street, parking is very limited; it is recommended to park elsewhere, or take the city’s free downtown area shuttle, which drops off within two blocks of River Street. River Street runs for nine blocks, roughly the length of Savannah’s historic district.
When to Get There
River Street is open year-round. Savannah’s summer months are notoriously hot and humid, so if you’re planning to spend much time walking around, aim for a spring or fall visit. If bars and clubs are on your radar, be sure to check out River Street at night—it’s a popular nightlife location.
River Street for History Buffs
River Street is one of the oldest continuously used areas in all of Georgia. In fact, it is the site where James Oglethorpe first landed and established the Savannah colony in 1733.
Address: River St, Savannah, GA, USA
From $ 25
Rick's Restorations
Sure—the items in the showroom are for sale, but Rick’s Restorations is much more intriguing than your regular shopping experience. This Las Vegas gallery is the site of the TV show, “American Restoration,” where aging items are masterfully restored into vintage pieces of art. Run by Rick Dale—who also appears on “Pawn Stars”—Rick’s Restorations is serviced by a crew of colorful Vegas characters, some of whom you might recognize from the show as you tour the warehouse. While many places solely restore cars, Rick’s finds pieces of classic Americana and loving brings them back to life, whether it’s gumball machines, jukeboxes, soda fountains, or stoplights. When visiting the shop, you can simply tour the gallery floor and shop for pieces you like, or take a tour to hear the process that goes into the restoration. There are metal workers, polishers, woodworkers, and letterers who all work together to take a clunker and infuse it with shiny new life. Or, if you have a piece that needs refurbishing and are willing to foot the bill, Rick’s Restorations always accepts clients to keep projects coming through the door.
Practical Info
If you take a guided tour of the warehouse, it’s asked that you not take any photos for proprietary reasons with the show.
Address: 800 West Mesquite Ave, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA 89106, USA
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Admission: $5 for tours of the shop
From $ 70
Road to Hana
With 64 miles of black sand beaches, waterfalls, and bamboo jungles, the Road to Hana is a must-see for any Maui visitor. The two-lane route, also known as Hāna Highway, connects Kahului with the tiny town of Hana in east Maui, offering scenic views, plenty of excursions, and some of Hawaii’s most beautiful scenery along the way. Read on to learn how you can make the most of your trip on this beautiful island.
The Basics
Most Hana tour options tend to be long, full-day trips, as the drive is slow-going with many twists and turns, taking at least three hours to drive the winding route. Don't be surprised when the path gets narrow—you'll pass over 59 bridges, 46 of which are only a single lane wide.
Small group trips offer a comfortable, air-conditioned ride via van or mini-coach with an expert tour guide who'll give you the inside scoop on the history and legends of the Valley Isle, while a private tour will include a driver who will stop wherever you’d like. Despite the narrow road’s name, most tours continue further south past Hana Town before turning around and returning to Kahului.
Road to Hana Popular Attractions
Some of the sights you can visit on your Hana adventure are the famous Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo, the Twin Falls waterfalls, the Ho'okipa Lookout, Honomanu Bay, the two arboretums, the Hana Lava Tube, and Wai'anapanapa State Park. For a piece of history, make a stop at Palapala Ho’omau Church, set on the coast in Kipahulu, where famous aviator Charles Lindbergh is buried. The town of Hana itself is tiny but lovely, and has many nice beaches.
Things to Do While Touring Hana
Stop at the Oheo Gulch to take a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools, or enjoy a range of short hikes through tropical rain forest, such as the four-mile Pipiwai Trail, a part of Haleakala National Park. If weather permits, take in the views at Keanae Lookout; rappel or zipline alongside one of the beautiful waterfalls; grab lunch in Paia Town; and check out ancient lava formations in the Ka’eleku Cavern. You can also take to the skies to see the Hana Highway on a helicopter tour or a day trip from Oahu, flight costs included.
Some travelers opt to take their own road trip along the famous Road to Hana, spending the night in Hana before heading back to the west side of the island. If you're interested in cycling, you can either rent a bike and go on your own, or book a cycling tour.
Amenities and Accessibility
Here are a few things to know before you go.
- Those considering the self-guided option should note that select rental car companies don’t allow their vehicles on the Hana road due to gravel and rocky paths.
- Some rock climbing may be required at the Seven Sacred Pools; however, Wai'anapanapa State Park has worked to improve its pathways for safer and more comfortable travel throughout the area.
- Not all day trips include meals, so consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic stop en route. Some options do include a continental breakfast for your early start.
Address: State Highway 360, Hana, Hawaii 96713, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 125
Ripley's Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium borders the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its vaulted underwater walkways, large tanks filled with colorful sea creatures, and live shark-feeding shows. Set in the Broadway-at-the-Beach shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, the aquarium features exhibits for visitors of all ages.
The Basics
Explore the Dangerous Reef, home to sharks, tarpons, grunts, and other sharp-toothed predators, on a 340-foot (104-meter) moving walkway through an acrylic shark tunnel; see the piranha at the Rio Amazon exhibit; gaze at octopus, lionfish, and other poisonous predators in the Living Gallery; or watch as manta rays swim alongside other aquatic animals in the Ray Bay.
Purchase tickets ahead of time to save hard-earned vacation time. Upgrades, including an indoor glass-bottom boat tour and behind-the-scenes tour, are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ripley’s aquarium is a must-see for families with kids.
- Tickets are good all day, so you can come and go at your leisure.
- The aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, which are both available to rent at guest services.
How to Get There
Ripley’s Aquarium is located in South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach area, in the Broadway-at-the-Beach complex. To get there via public transportation, take bus C10 right to the aquarium or bus C21 to the Broadway at the Beach Visitor Center. Free parking is available at the aquarium.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open year-round, as is the wider Broadway at the Beach area. Myrtle Beach has mild winters and hot, humid summers, so plan your visit accordingly.
Nearby Attractions
Once you’ve had your fill of marine life, explore the larger Broadway at the Beach complex. The walkable outdoor entertainment area features an array of entertainment options, amusement-park-style rides, shops, and restaurants.
Address: 1110 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577, USA
From $ 11
Rittenhouse Square
Dating to the late 17th century as part of William Penn’s original five-square city plan, this gracefully manicured park was renamed in 1825 for local astronomer, inventor and surveyor David Rittenhouse. Long one of Philadelphia’s most desirable addresses, in our modern era it’s surrounded by luxury apartments and shops.
Well connected to buses, the SEPTA rail and the trolley, the surrounding neighborhood is full of historic architecture and cultural institutions. Attractions include the Mütter Museum and the treasure-filled Rosenbach Museum & Library, as well as the Curtis Institute of Music. Look for the ornate Victorian House set at the northwest corner, and various bronze sculptures of animals scattered throughout the park.
The park is managed and supported by the Friends of Rittenhouse Square, a non-profit group who, among other activities, stages a series of free concerts in the park during the summer.
Address: Walnut and 18th Streets, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, USA
From $ 32
Ripley's Aquarium Of Canada
In downtown Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses approximately 16,000 water-bound species from across the world. The displays are arranged by region, and visitors can explore the tropical Rainbow Reef, check out the Dangerous Lagoon shark tank, and learn more about the marine life found in the waters around Canada.
The Basics
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada houses both marine and freshwater species. It’s organized into nine galleries, each focused on a different type of marine habitat. The walk-through shark tank is one of the most popular, along with the jellyfish gallery where visitors can see the alien-like creatures in all their glory. For a close encounter, head to the Discovery Center, where you can interact with horseshoe crabs and board the research submarine for views of the shark tank.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ripley’s aquarium is ideal for families with children.
- Save time by booking skip-the-line tickets in advance. Note that admission is reduced after 7pm.
- There are a café and souvenir shop on-site.
- The aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The aquarium is located at 288 Bremner Boulevard, close to the CN Tower and Rogers Centre in downtown Toronto. It’s walking distance from many major downtown locations, and there is paid parking nearby. The closest subway stations are Union and St. Andrews; the nearest streetcar stop is John Street.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open 9am to 11pm, with occasional early closures (check online for the current schedule), 365 days a year. The aquarium is busiest early- to mid-afternoon, so plan your visit outside of these times for a quieter experience.
Visit the CN Tower
When the CN Tower was built in 1976, it was the tallest freestanding structure in the world. Although other buildings have dwarfed it since, a trip to the top is a classic Toronto activity and offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Ride to the top in a glass-fronted elevator and test your nerve by walking over the clear glass floor with all of Toronto beneath you.
Address: 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M5V 3L9, Canada
Admission: Varies
From $ 19