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Venice Canals and Walkways
In 1905, tobacco millionaire and real estate developer Abbot Kinney sought to simulate the romantic feel of Venice, Italy in America by creating the beach resort town of Venice just south-west of Santa Monica. Kinney wrangled the area's marshland into a series of canals that, initially, were traversed by ornate gondolas piloted by gondoliers in traditional Italian garb.
The first incarnation of Venice also had an elaborate amusement pier, a miniature railroad, and a block-long street of faux-Venetian buildings, all sloping towards a wide swath of Pacific Ocean shoreline. Its commercial success inspired competition from neighboring piers in Santa Monica, but Kinney's Venice held onto its popularity even after 1920 when its founder died and his original pier burned down. Kinney's family rebuilt the pier quickly, creating a series of large-scale amusement rides that could be seen from different vantage points along the canals; this second pier would become one of the most-visited attractions in Los Angeles County throughout the 1920s.
Los Angeles annexed Venice in 1925, but provided little in the way of government infrastructure and waste management. Thus, by the time oil was discovered here in 1929, the Venice canals were already becoming trash-clogged and swampy. City developers with plans for a forest of oil wells and more commercial and residential space filled in many of the maligned canals with asphalt and concrete. Those canals that remained would fall into increasing disrepair for the next 60 years.
Though the Venice Canal District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the canals themselves wouldn't be renovated for another decade. By 1993, when rejuvenation efforts were in full swing along the funky, laid-back and locally beloved Abbot Kinney Boulevard, the canals had been drained and refilled with fresh water that shimmered green in the sunlight, the crumbling walls and surrounding sidewalks were repaired, and several arched bridges had been rebuilt and freshly painted. The area is now one of L.A.'s most desirable neighborhoods, featuring a mix of historic and stylishly modern architecture and a well-landscaped network of walkways. Some residents travel the canals by rowboat and the waterways are also home to small fish, ducks and the occasional heron.
The first incarnation of Venice also had an elaborate amusement pier, a miniature railroad, and a block-long street of faux-Venetian buildings, all sloping towards a wide swath of Pacific Ocean shoreline. Its commercial success inspired competition from neighboring piers in Santa Monica, but Kinney's Venice held onto its popularity even after 1920 when its founder died and his original pier burned down. Kinney's family rebuilt the pier quickly, creating a series of large-scale amusement rides that could be seen from different vantage points along the canals; this second pier would become one of the most-visited attractions in Los Angeles County throughout the 1920s.
Los Angeles annexed Venice in 1925, but provided little in the way of government infrastructure and waste management. Thus, by the time oil was discovered here in 1929, the Venice canals were already becoming trash-clogged and swampy. City developers with plans for a forest of oil wells and more commercial and residential space filled in many of the maligned canals with asphalt and concrete. Those canals that remained would fall into increasing disrepair for the next 60 years.
Though the Venice Canal District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the canals themselves wouldn't be renovated for another decade. By 1993, when rejuvenation efforts were in full swing along the funky, laid-back and locally beloved Abbot Kinney Boulevard, the canals had been drained and refilled with fresh water that shimmered green in the sunlight, the crumbling walls and surrounding sidewalks were repaired, and several arched bridges had been rebuilt and freshly painted. The area is now one of L.A.'s most desirable neighborhoods, featuring a mix of historic and stylishly modern architecture and a well-landscaped network of walkways. Some residents travel the canals by rowboat and the waterways are also home to small fish, ducks and the occasional heron.
Address: Venice, Los Angeles, CA, USA
From $ 79
Valley Forge National Historical Park
A verdant tract of land popular for walking and cycling, Valley Forge is a Philadelphia-area escape. Located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Center City, the National Historical Park housed George Washington’s Continental Army during the winter of 1777–1778. See Revolutionary War–era log cabins, cannons, memorials, and more.
The Basics
As a National Historical Park, Valley Forge opens daily to the public from 7am till dusk; park facilities are all free to access. Tours from Philadelphia typically include bus or car transit, as public transportation is relatively limited in the area. Most itineraries stop at the park’s most significant historical landmarks, among them the Washington Memorial Chapel, George Washington’s headquarters, and the Visitor Center (home to the park’s museum collection).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Valley Forge Park is a must-visit for history buffs looking to discover more about American history and the Revolutionary War.
- Visitors are free to explore beyond the designated trails, in which case bug spray is recommended.
- Pack a sturdy pair of hiking boots, particularly if you plan to explore during the winter months.
- Hike the 6.6-mile (10.6-kilometer) Joseph Plumb Martin Trail to see most of the major historical landmarks.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Valley Forge is on a guided, round-trip tour from Philadelphia or another nearby town. For independent travelers, the park is located off US Route 422; it’s a roughly 30-minute drive from Philadelphia along 1-76 West. SEPTA Bus Routes 125 and 139 also stop near the Visitor Center.
When to Get There
Valley Forge National Historical Park is open year-round, though the Visitor Center closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. In spring, there are plenty of scenic, blossoming plants, and in autumn, vibrant foliage. Valley Forge is busy during the summer, particularly around Independence Day, which is typically celebrated here with a range of activities and events. If you plan to visit in the winter months, conditions may become muddy and slippery.
Other Attractions in the Area
It's only a 5-minute drive from Valley Forge National Historical Park to King of Prussia, home to one of the country's largest malls. If you're planning to spend the day outside of Philadelphia, then complement your outdoor adventures with a shopping excursion at the King of Prussia Mall. With more than 400 shops, multiple food courts, and other attractions, it's the perfect place to while away a few hours.
Address: 1400 North Outerline Drive, King of Prussia 19406, USA
From $ 365
Valley of the Temples
An ethereal Japanese temple, immaculate zen landscaping, a palm-lined drive, memorial gazebos overlooking the Pacific and a Koolau mountain backdrop conspire to create one of Oahu’s most peaceful settings. The valley is a memorial park and the final resting place for thousands of Shinto, Buddhist and Christian Hawaii residents, including early Honolulu developer Walter Francis Dillingham (1875-1963) and Zhang Xueliang, a warlord and northern China Army General who died in 2001 at age 100. Visitors explore the grounds, especially to see the bright red Byodo-In temple that looks like it was dropped in front of its reflecting pond via some portal to ancient Japan.
The temple was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first wave of Japanese immigrants in Hawaii and is a replica of the nearly 1,000-year-old Byodo-In temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan. Here, incense wafts from the main temple building and peacocks strut in front of the waterfalls that trickle into koi-filled ponds. When visitors ring the temple’s giant brass peace bell, the sound resonates along mountain walls. In summer and fall, the park hosts annual Japanese Obon dance festivals honoring ancestors here.
Also within the Valley are a triangular-shaped Christian church with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the green mountain face, statues of the Virgin Mary and unique memorial displays including markers shaped like aloha shirts—the Valley is a multi-denominational place of rest for both the living and the dead.
Practical Info
The Valley of the Temples is north of downtown Kaneohe off Highway 83 (47-200 Kahekili Hwy). The memorial park is open from 6 a.m. til dusk daily and the Byodo-In temple keeps regular business hours (9 a.m. til 5 p.m.). There is no admission to explore the Valley of the Temples, but there is a cash-only admission charge for the temple ($3 adult, $2 seniors and $1 child). To access the Byodo-In Temple, follow the entrance road up the hill to the back of the valley.
Address: 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744, USA
Hours: Open from 6 a.m. til dusk daily and the Byodo-In temple keeps regular business hours (9 a.m. til 5 p.m.)
Admission: $3 adult, $2 seniors and $1 child
From $ 79
Verizon Center
Formerly known as the MCI Center, this Penn Quarter/Chinatown sports and entertainment arena is home to a few of Washington’s top teams: the Wizards and Mystics (basketball), and the Capitals (hockey). Formally sponsored by telecommunications giant MCI (1997-2006) and now sponsored by Verizon Communications, the arena is often locally referred to, tongue-in-cheek, as the “Phone Booth.”
In addition to games, matches and bouts, the Verizon Center regularly hosts the biggest musical acts in the world, as well as ice skating shows, the circus, and equestrian and wrestling events.
While several of the Center’s restaurants and nightlife options are privately reserved for their own members, there are a few public eateries and/or bars on site: Hard Times Café (concession stands), The Clubhouse and The Greene Turtle (both sports-focused cocktail bars), and Dunkin’ Donuts. Additionally, the Center is set amidst two of the most condensed commercial districts in the city, with a slew of nearby restaurants and bars from which to choose.
In addition to games, matches and bouts, the Verizon Center regularly hosts the biggest musical acts in the world, as well as ice skating shows, the circus, and equestrian and wrestling events.
While several of the Center’s restaurants and nightlife options are privately reserved for their own members, there are a few public eateries and/or bars on site: Hard Times Café (concession stands), The Clubhouse and The Greene Turtle (both sports-focused cocktail bars), and Dunkin’ Donuts. Additionally, the Center is set amidst two of the most condensed commercial districts in the city, with a slew of nearby restaurants and bars from which to choose.
Practical Info
The Verizon Center has its own multi-level dedicated parking lot, open
only for concerts (not sports events) for a charge of $27. Otherwise,
the building is surrounded by street parking and several public lots,
and is set atop the Metrorail’s Gallery Place station, which serves the
Green, Red, and Yellow Lines.
Address: 601 F St NW, Washington DC 20004, USA
From $ 42
Vikingsholm Castle
Vikingsholm Castle is a historic mansion and architectural highlight of Lake Tahoe. Located in beautiful Emerald Bay State Park, the majestic home overlooks the lake’s scenic Emerald Bay and Fannette Island. Blending seamlessly with its surrounding natural environment, Vikingsholm is considered to be one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the western hemisphere.
The Basics
Vikingsholm dates back to 1929, when it served as the summer home of Lora Josephine Knight. After visiting Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden for design inspiration, Knight had the 38-room house constructed using only natural materials from the area—no nails, pegs, or spikes. She also built a small teahouse on Fannette Island in the middle of the bay, accessible by boat, kayak, and canoe. Lake Tahoe boat tours often pass by the Vikingsholm, and cruises that visit Emerald Bay share history of the house and the area. You can also spy Vikingsholm from the air by helicopter tour. To see the interior of the house, you must be on a guided tour led by an official state park guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Vikingsholm is a top Tahoe attraction for architecture buffs.
- The castle’s interior is available for 30-minute, fee-based tours in summer, from late May to late September.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes if making the 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) hike to the castle.
- While the castle can be seen from the water, road, and sky, getting an up-close look is difficult for those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Vikingsholm is located in South Lake Tahoe on the California (western) side of the lake. To get to the mansion, take Highway 89 to the lake’s southwest shore. The house is a short, 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) hike away from the Emerald Bay State Park lookout parking lot, which is worth stopping at for views of the bay and Fannette Island. Public bus service is available from both the north and south shores. Private boats can also pick up and drop off from a dock near the home.
When to Get There
Visitors can see the house exterior at any time of year. House tours are available only during the summer, from late May to late September. Guided tours last 30 minutes and are conducted on the half hour from 10:30am to 3:30pm.
What Not to Miss at Vikingsholm
As you enter the castle, take a look at the sod roof, which covers both wings of the house. It sprouts wildflowers each spring. Once inside, be sure to notice the level of exquisite detail, from the delicate paintings on the ceilings and walls to the antique furnishings and Nordic fireplaces.
Address: 11001 South Highway 89, South Lake Tahoe 96143, USA
Hours: Open daily. Tours run from 10:30am - 3:30pm
Admission: US$10
From $ 64
V. Sattui Winery
A welcoming, yet exclusive vibe pervades the V. Sattui Winery. Exclusive, in that its award-winning wines are only available at the vineyard, welcoming in that the surrounds and tasting room is warm an inviting, and is one of the most enjoyable wineries to visit in Napa Valley.
V. Sattui Winery is a large winery, with an emphasis on its stone tasting room. Red wines on the tasting menu include Merlots, Cabernets, and Zinfandels; white wines to be sampled include Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and a Rhone-style blend of Marsanne and Viognier. Next to the tasting room are a gift shop, a cheese shop, and a large gourmet food store. You can buy a bottle wine and food and have a picnic outside on the shaded picnic grounds. A perfect stop during a day of wine tasting.
Practical Info
V. Sattui Winery is located in St. Helena, along the Highway 29, about 30 minutes from Napa. The winery is a midway point on the Silverado Trail, so you have many nearby wineries to visit.
Address: 1111 White Lane, St. Helena 94574, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am - 6pm (until 5pm in Winter). Closed Dec 25
Admission: US$5 - US$10 for wine tasting
From $ 399
Verde Canyon Railroad
The Verde Canyon Railroad winds its way along the scenic Verde River at a leisurely 12 mph (19 kph), offering passengers a unique way to experience the Arizona wilderness. The refurbished heritage railroad cars make the round-trip journey through national forest land, with stellar views out windows on both sides of the train.
The Basics
A ride aboard this restored vintage train takes passengers 20 miles (32 kilometers) from an historic train depot just outside Sedona to the ghost town of Perkinsville and back. Passengers can choose between coach or the more spacious first class, both of which have access to open-air viewing cars, where outdoor attendants provide insight into the canyon’s history, geology, and ecology. Once a month during the summer, the railroad offers a nighttime starlight excursion to allow passengers to see a different side of the high desert.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Verde Canyon Railroad is a must-do for families traveling with kids and history buffs.
- The round-trip ride lasts about four hours.
- The railroad is climate-controlled for a comfortable journey no matter the season.
- Some railroad cars are accessible to manual wheelchairs and are equipped with Americans with Disabilities–compliant (ADA) restrooms.
- Tickets often sell out, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.
How to Get There
The train depot is in Clarkdale, about 40 minutes outside Sedona or two hours from Phoenix. The easiest way to get there is to drive, and you’ll find parking across the street from the depot.
When to Get There
Climate-controlled indoor cars make the train a popular excursion throughout the year. Expect temperatures of around 90°F (32°C) (when enjoying the open-air cars) during the summer months or the occasional light dusting of snow in winter.
All Aboard for Wildlife Viewing
The train passes between the Prescott and Coconino national forests, affording plenty of opportunity for viewing some of Arizona’s 900 animal species. Keep your eyes open for great blue herons along the banks of the Verde River or bald eagles soaring above the train cars.
Address: 300 North Broadway, Clarkdale 86324-2302, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 98
Victorian Village
Victorian Village, an historic neighborhood once known as Millionaire’s Row, is lined with grand mansions dating back to the mid to late 1800s. Some of these Victorian-era estates, including the Mallory Neely House, James Lee House, and Woodruff-Fontaine House, have been converted into museums, inns, and even a nightlife hot spot.
The Basics
Most Memphis city tours pass through Victorian Village, which officially comprises 14 historic properties, a dozen of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Three houses—the Magevney House, Mallory-Neely House, and Woodruff-Fontaine House—are now museums with original period furniture. The James Lee House operates as an upscale bed-and-breakfast, and the Mollie Fontaine Lounge has become a trendy cocktail bar serving modern Southern comfort food. The other homes can only be viewed from the outside.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Victorian Village is a must-see for architecture and history buffs.
- Wear comfortable shoes to for a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood.
- The Mollie Fontaine Lounge and the first floors of the Mallory-Neely House and Woodruff-Fontaine House are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The homes of Victorian Village run along Adams Avenue on the east side of Downtown Memphis. It’s easy to get there on foot from downtown.
When to Get There
It’s possible to take in the sights of Victorian Village anytime, but you’ll want to visit during daytime hours to tour the museums or in the evening to sip a cocktail at the Mollie Fontaine Lounge, where there’s live music on the weekends.
History of Victorian Village
From 1845 to 1890, when the dozen or so Victorian-style homes along Millionaire’s Row were being built, this stretch of Adams Avenue was on the outskirts of Memphis. As the neighborhood grew in prestige, wealthy riverboat and cotton tycoons scrambled to establish residencies in this trendy area. Eventually Memphis grew past the area, and by the end of World War II, many of the elite families abandoned their Victorian Village mansions.
Address: Victorian Village, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
From $ 25
V Theater
One of Las Vegas’s cozier venues, the V Theater is a favorite for many looking for live entertainment. There are two showrooms with a total of eight different productions, including “V - The Ultimate Variety Show,” which is frequently named the best show in Vegas. The show has fourteen different acts featuring everything from comedians to magicians and even jugglers.
The V Theater has become known for just that - variety. Many of the smaller, more unique shows that don’t play in the larger venues come to the V. There is something going on every night of the week, and the theater’s location makes it easy to combine with a restaurant visit — for an old-fashioned Vegas dinner and a show.
Practical Info
The V Theater is located inside the Miracle Mile Shops of Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. The box office is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm.
Address: 3663 S Las Vegas Blvd #360, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109, USA
Admission: Check website for show prices
From $ 29
Viansa Winery
You’ll enjoy the views as much as the wine at Sonoma County’s Viansa Winery & Marketplace.
Viansa produces a variety of wines including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir. In addition to these well know wines, they also produce traditional Italian varietals.
What makes a visit to Viansa particularly unique is the view that comes with its location. Of course they have grapes, but perched atop a hill, the Winery & Marketplace looks down over 113 acres of natural wetlands. When the winery assumed stewardship, the wetlands had been converted for grazing. Now restored, over 500 species of birds have been seen and as many as a thousand waterfowl have been counted in a single day. Visitors could see canvasback ducks, great blue herons, Canadian geese and a number of other birds migrating along the Pacific Flyway.
Practical Info
Viansa Winery & Marketplace is located 40 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, making it an easy day trip from San Francisco. The tasting room is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm.
Address: 25200 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, California 95476, USA
Hours: The tasting room is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm.
From $ 144
Vesuvio Cafe
One of San Francisco’s most storied watering holes, Vesuvio Cafe is an icon of the Beat Generation and a symbol of the history and culture of North Beach. Founded in 1948, the bohemian saloon was a popular hangout spot for writers and poets such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Other famous patrons include Bob Dylan and Francis Ford Coppola.
The Basics
Many travelers visit Vesuvio Cafe as part of a tour of the North Beach (aka Little Italy) neighborhood, which is a bustling nightlife destination. Get there on a hop-on hop-off tour, or join a pub crawl to visit the bar with fellow travelers.
Inside, the eclectic, artsy decor and two stories of lights create a retro atmosphere in an intimate space, with walls covered in paintings and writer memorabilia. The drinks menu includes classic cocktails and Beat-themed tributes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Vesuvio Cafe does not serve food.
- You must be 21 to enter; IDs are checked.
- There is plenty of free and metered street parking available in North Beach, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during street cleaning or other times.
How to Get There
The bar is easy to reach by cab, ride-hailing service, and public transportation. Take the Powell-Mason cable car to the Mason Street and Pacific Avenue stop, or hop on Muni bus 8 or 41.
When to Get There
Vesuvio Cafe is open daily from morning to late night. To enjoy the laid-back vibe of North Beach, visit in the evening or on a weekend afternoon, when sidewalk cafés and restaurants are bustling. Late-night, the neighborhood becomes more of a party scene. Every June, the North Beach Festival features a variety of food stands and merchants selling art and jewelry.
City Lights Bookstore
Located next door to Vesuvio Cafe, just across Jack Kerouac Alley, sits the other Beat-era icon of San Francisco—City Lights Booksellers & Publishers. A North Beach institution, this independent bookstore was founded in 1953 and is known for its international literature, progressive attitude, and author readings.
Address: 255 Columbus, San Francisco, California, USA
From $ 58
Valley of Fire
The Valley of Fire, Nevada’s oldest state park, covers 34,880 acres (14,115 hectares) of red rock formations, sandstone cliffs, dramatic canyons, and peaceful valleys. Some of the park’s most famous features include the ancient Moapa petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and the three-mile (4.8 km) Fire Canyon hike, which shows off the colorful sandstone that gives the park its name. In addition to being one of the most popular hiking destinations near Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire also attracts picnickers, campers, and photographers.
The Basics
With some of the most stunning scenery in the Mojave Desert, the Valley of Fire State Park is a popular escape from nearby Las Vegas. While guided hikes are a popular option, visitors can also opt for photography tours, buggy or ATV tours, or a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of both the Valley of Fire and the Grand Canyon West Rim. Couples planning a wedding can arrange to say their vows amid the fiery rock formations of this state park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ground.
- The park provides little shade, so don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of drinking water.
- Most tours from Las Vegas last four to eight hours.
How to Get to the Valley of Fire
The Valley of Fire sits within the Mojave Desert, 58 miles (93 km) from the Las Vegas Strip. The most convenient way to visit is on a guided tour with transportation from your Las Vegas hotel, but you can drive yourself by taking I-35 North to the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead exit.
When to Get There
The Valley of Fire is open to day-trippers from sunrise to sunset. Those who wish to stay overnight can do so at one of two campgrounds. For hiking and other outdoor activities, the mild weather between November through March is ideal. In summer, when temperatures can top 100°F (38°C), it’s best to tour the park by air-conditioned car instead.
Things to Do Near the Valley of Fire
While you’re visiting the Valley of Fire, consider a side trip to another area attraction. Valley of Fire State Park is adjacent to Lake Mead, which has plenty of recreational options on water and land. Just northwest of the park lies the town of Overton, where it’s possible to fill upon gas, grab some food, or visit the Lost City Museum, dedicated to an ancestral Puebloan village discovered in 1924.
Address: 29450 Valley of Fire Road, Overton, NV, USA
Hours: Visitor Center open daily 8:30am - 4:30pm
Admission: $10 Entrance Fee, additional fees to camp
From $ 119
Venetian Hotel & Casino
The Venetian Hotel and Casino is the premier location to catch great shows and indulge in unique experiences. With a booming nightlife and entertainment scene, coupled by the beautiful architecture and world famous gondola rides, this hotel will transport you to the streets of Venice.
Experience a first-class ride on a majestic gondola, painted white and gold with elaborate details and decorations. Then, travel through the canals and ride above a man-made lagoon, which mirrors the incredible, sky-painted ceilings. The ride will take you beneath bridges and alongside charming boutiques and cafes, so that you’ll feel only steps away from Italy.
For world class entertainment the Venetian offers the most variety and best in Vegas. The Blue Man Group, The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, and the comedian Joan Rivers play there regularly. Then there’s the nightlife, and the Venetian is home to the world-famous bar Tao Nightclub, where celebrity sightings are an every day occurrence. And what hotel and casino would be complete without games galore? From poker to slot machines, the Venetian has your winning number.
Address: 3355 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas 89109, USA
From $ 55
Venice Beach
Known for its free-spirited vibe, Venice Beach is a happening, upscale outlier of Los Angeles, fronted by the iconic Venice Boardwalk, officially known as the Ocean Front Walk. Encounters with pickup basketball teams, fortune tellers, and roller skating sunseekers are pretty much guaranteed—especially on hot Southern California summer days. Beyond the sand, visit the skate park, the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym, and Abbot Kinney Boulevard, featuring trendy restaurants, stylish boutiques, galleries, and cafés.
The Basics
Travelers love strolling Venice Beach to take in the bohemian boardwalk and its brightly colored murals, funky shops, and street performers, including the Sunday afternoon drum circle. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to explore Venice Beach on your own schedule, while renting bikes or roller skates enables you to cover more ground—and blend in with the locals. This sandy spot is typically visited on Los Angeles city sightseeing tours and is sometimes paired with a stop in Santa Monica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Venice Beach is a must-see for sun worshippers looking to experience Southern California’s beach scene.
- Venice Beach offers a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes for travelers interested in souvenirs and dining.
- Accessible parking, picnic tables, and restrooms are available; visit a lifeguard stand to inquire about beach wheelchair rentals.
How to Get There
Venice Beach is located southeast of Santa Monica, along California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway. Street parking can be found along the beach and on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, and there are also a few parking lots.
When to Get There
Venice Beach is a public outdoor beach, open 365 days a year. It’s busiest on Sundays and less crowded on weekdays. Temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C) in summer, while average winter temperatures are about 60°F (15°C).
Prominent Residents of Venice Beach
Notable Venice homeowners include Hollywood stars Julia Roberts, Viggo Mortensen, Kate Beckinsale, Rutger Hauer, Anjelica Huston, and Elijah Wood. Actor Robert Downey Jr. kept an apartment on the boardwalk during the 1990s, and decades before, musician Jim Morrison met Ray Manzarek and formed the Doors while living in Venice. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s acting career began after he became a regular bodybuilder at Venice’s famous Gold’s Gym. And restaurateur Wolfgang Puck has owned and operated restaurants here since the 1990s.
Address: Pacific Coast Highway, Venice 90291, USA
Hours: Open 24 hrs daily
Admission: Free
From $ 49
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, one of Washington DC’s most visited landmarks, is comprised of three parts—the Three Soldiers statue, the Women’s Memorial, and the main attraction, the Maya Lin–designed Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, engraved with the names of some 58,000 fallen and missing Vietnam War soldiers. Visitors arrive to pay their respects and leave notes and mementos at the wall.
The Basics
The free-to-visit Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a stop on the circuit of most DC sightseeing tours, many of which also visit the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials, Washington Monument, and the US Capitol building. Walking tours ensure an up-close look at the names engraved on the black granite memorial wall, the scene of three uniformed women helping a wounded soldier depicted in the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and the bronze Three Soldiers statue from artist Frederick Hart.
Things to Know Before You Go
- National Park Service rangers are available from 9:30am to 10pm daily to help visitors find relative names and make wall rubbings, which involves transferring wall names from the stone to paper.
- The memorial is wheelchair accessible.
- Visitors can download an official Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall smartphone app to locate specific names on the wall.
How to Get There
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is centrally located on the National Mall, just a 5-minute walk east of the Lincoln Memorial. If traveling via public transit, ride the Metro to the Foggy Bottom or Federal Triangle stop, or hop on the National Mall Circulator bus. Alternatively, book a tour with round-trip transport to skip the hassle of navigating on your own.
When to Get There
Open to visitors at all hours, the memorial is busiest in summer, during the afternoon, and on weekends. While most travelers visit during the day, some opt for an evening or night sightseeing tour to see the black granite wall hauntingly illuminated under the night sky.
Women’s Vietnam War History
The Women’s Memorial was a controversial addition to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. In 1993 after nine years of resistance from the memorials commissions, former Army combat nurse Diane Evans finally gained approval for the addition to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to recognize the 265,000 women who served during the Vietnam War.
Address: Henry Bacon Drive, at Constitution Avenue NW, National Mall, Washington D.C., USA
Admission: Free
From $ 14
Verrazano Narrows Bridge
This iconic double-decker suspension bridge that connects Staten Island to Brooklyn spans some 4,260 feet and was once the longest bridge of its kind on earth. Perhaps best known as the starting point for the famed New York City Marathon, it offers stunning views of incredible city skylines and easy passage between two of the Big Apple’s boroughs.
Opened in 1964, the Verrazano Narrows Bridge was the last public works project in the city that was overseen by the famous Robert Moses. Roughly 12,000 people helped to construct this incredible thruway and since every cruise ship bound for ports in New York or New Jersey has to pass beneath this bridge, its height and specifications are taken into consideration when ships are designed.
Practical Info
The bridge’s toll is $11.08 for drivers using E-ZPass and $16 for all other vehicles. The fare is only collected on cars entering State Island.
Address: Staten Island, New York 10305, USA
Hours: 24 hours
Admission: $16
From $ 101
Utah State Capitol
The neoclassical Utah State Capitol Building opened in 1916 and is home to the offices and chambers of the state Legislature, governor, and other government officials. The building is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and features artwork, historical items, and monuments both inside and around the grounds.
The Basics
As one of Salt Lake City’s most prominent landmarks, the Capitol Building is included on most city sightseeing tours. Free tours of the Capitol are led by volunteer docents on weekdays and depart from just inside the east entrance, or you may explore on your own. Highlights include rotating exhibits about Utah’s history and heritage in the fourth floor gallery, and the architecture and frescoes of the Rotunda.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visitor services office is open on weekdays.
- A limited number of wheelchairs are available to use at the Visitor Services office.
- An access ramp is located between the Capitol and the Senate buildings.
- Brochures are available inside the east entrance for those taking a self-guided tour.
How to Get There
The Capitol building is situated at the northern end of State Street, Salt Lake City’s main thoroughfare. It can be reached via public transportation on bus No. 500. Public parking lots are located on the east side of the Senate Building; street parking is also available but visitors should pay attention to street signs for any limits.
When to Get There
The Capitol Building is open every day, including weekends and holidays. Weddings often take place on the weekends. Other types of events also take place throughout the building and grounds; if you’re lucky, you might catch a choral performance in the Rotunda.
Temple Square
If you’re at the Capitol Building, you’re within walking distance of Temple Square, just 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) away in the direction of downtown. Owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the plaza is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the city’s top visitor attractions, where you can walk around the landscaped grounds and visit temples, monuments, and other sites that are important to the Mormon church.
Address: 350 North State Street, Salt Lake City 84114, USA
From $ 31
Virgin River
You can thank the meandering Virgin River for Zion’s epic beauty. Due to the ferocious forces of erosion over 200 million years, the Virgin River has carved Utah’s sandstone into geological art. Beginning at over 9,000 feet to the north of the park, the north fork of the river winds its way for 190 miles toward southern Nevada and beyond. Along the way it sculpts legendary formations such as Zion’s famous Narrows, and the striated lines of the canyon walls provide a peek at what the center of the Earth might look like.
On the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the road parallels the Virgin River as it winds its way down the canyon, and rockslides, floods and shifting boulders are evidence that the river isn’t quite finished carving Zion Canyon. In the town of Springdale on the park’s southern entrance, tubing down the river is a popular activity in the late spring and summer.
Practical Info
The water can be frigid during chilly parts of the year. When hiking in places such as the Narrows or slot canyons, always keep an eye on the weather forecast since the Virgin River is prone to flash floods at any time of the year.
Address: Zion National Park, Utah 84737, USA
From $ 80
Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site
The Vanderbilt Mansion, also known and Hyde Park and now preserved as a museum-style tribute to the Gilded Era, offers a window into American country life and the decadent lives of the country’s elite after the Civil War. The 54-room mansion fronted by Romanesque columns is one of the Hudson River region’s oldest estates, and today houses museum-like collections of more than 6,500 pieces of art, fine objects, and furnishings. Visitors can enjoy views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains during family picnics in the formal and Italian Gardens on the 211-acre grounds, and, in June, July, and August, take-in free evening concerts on the lawn.
On guided tours, visitors traipse up and down more than 100 stairs to explore period-furnished guestrooms with fireplaces on the second floor, ornate sitting rooms and the kitchen on the first floor and even the ice box in the basement. In addition to learning about the home’s former residents and lives of American elite, tours interpret the lives of its domestic staff and surrounding working class communities in the Hudson Valley.
The Hyde Park Trail connects the grounds with the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Park. The Vanderbilt Mansion was purchased by the former president for $1, and preserved within the national park system.
Practical Info
The Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is located at 81 Vanderbilt Park Road off Route 9 in Hyde Park, New York. It’s about 90 north of New York City and two miles north of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Home National Historic Site. The site can be accessed by free shuttle service from Poughkeepsie Metro-North Rail between May and October with advance reservations.
The grounds are free and open daily year-round (except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day) from sunrise to sunset. Visits to the home’s interior are by hour-long guided tour only. Tours are capped at 50 people and tickets sell for $10 from the Pavilion Visitor Center; children 15 and under are free. Eight daily departure times are offered between May and October and four daily tours run between November and April; the last tour always starts at 4pm. Tour tickets can sell out during the summer high season and limited personal effects may accompany you on the tour (no strollers, backpacks, or selfie-sticks).
Address: 81 Vanderbilt Park Road, Hyde Park, New York, USA
Hours: Open daily year-round (except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day) from sunrise to sunset.
Admission: Tours: $10 from the Pavilion Visitor Center; children 15 and under are free.
From $ 73
Vernal Fall
This towering flow of water is one of Yosemite’s best known waterfalls, accessible on the ground by a moderate hike. Its volume depends on the season, though it generally runs year-round.
Depending on the amount of water, there is either one massive waterfall or several smaller strands falling across the rock to the valley below. Vernal Fall flows from the Nevada Falls above before plunging over the rock. The waterfall is about 317 feet tall, so it’s impressive (and often a bit damp) standing right at its base. Aside from the water there is often lots of greenery surrounding the falls, which adds to its scenery. The falls also produce a fine mist that can create rainbows.
The steep hiking trail that leads to Vernal Fall is mostly rock steps, but the views are worth the climb. There is also plenty of natural scenery, of Merced River and Yosemite Valley, to enjoy on the way up. If you’d rather see it from a distance, Vernal Fall is also visible from the Glacier Point overlook.
Practical Info
Vernal Falls is accessible on foot via the Vernal Falls Trail or Mist Trail. It’s a steep climb to the footbridge at its base (.8 miles from the start of the trail.) The trail can be wet and slippery, so it’s best to use caution and wear proper footwear. Peak flows are in May and June each year. Hiking to the very top of the falls is about 3 miles roundtrip, and the trailhead is located at Happy Isles (shuttle stop 16.)
Address: Vernal Falls Trail, Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Admission: Free with $20 admission to the park
From $ 74