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Welcome to the beautiful state of Oregon. Located in the Pacific Northwest, sandwiched between California and Washington, Oregon just might be one of the most underrated destinations in the United States. There are so many things to do in Oregon from incredible hiking trails to picturesque beaches, hip urban centers, high mountains, and waterfalls. Oregon has it all! So let’s dive into some of the top places to visit in Oregon.

The Best Things to Do in Oregon

People often skip right over Oregon from flying from Seattle, Washington to vacation in California, but it should not be missed! To help you plan your visit to Oregon and put it higher on your travel radar, let’s explore all the top attractions in the state. Where are you going next on a road trip? I bet Oregon will pop to the top of your bucket list after this!

1. Smith Rock State Park

For some of the best hiking in Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a must. Travel Oregon made it a part of the 7 Wonders of Oregon and for good reason. This beautiful State Park is a mecca for rock climbers with more than 1000 bolted routes! Its cathedral rock spires make for picture-perfect scenery with it all reflecting in the winding river below.

Things to do in Smith Rock State Park

There are plenty of reasons to visit Smith Rock State Park besides rock climbing, it is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. Hikers can enjoy beautiful trails making it one of the most popular state parks in Oregon.

Our favorite is Misery Ridge Trail which is challenging but takes you out to stunning views of the park’s rock formations, and the River Trail, which follows the Crooked River and offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for golden eagles, mule deer and river otters when you are out for your hike. Read more: Smith Rock State Park – Misery Ridge Hike

Smith Rock State Park is also a great place for mountain biking with 30 miles of biking trails suitable for all levels. So, rent a bike and hit the trails or you can simply relax and do some car camping. There are campsites for RV camping, tent camping and there are even yurts and cabins for rent in the park.

Where to Stay Near Smith Rock

There are closer places to stay near Smith Rock including the Smith Rock Resort and Crooked River Ranch Cabins

Stay near Smith Rock at Sisters. We stayed at Five Pine Lodge offers unique lodging in the nearby central Oregon town of Sisters. We stayed here the night before our cycling trip to Smith Rock via the Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Byway.

Sisters is a great place to make a base with annual events like the Sisters Rodeo and the Sisters Folk Fest plus beautiful outdoor activities like SUP, Mountain Biking, Hiking, and more! Read more at TravelOregon

2. Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Another one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. I think this is the place that attracts people to the state. It is the largest National Scenic Area in America measuring an astounding 80 miles long and 4000 feet deep along the Columbia River.

Being a gorge, there are naturally several waterfalls in the area including Wahclella Falls, Horsetail Falls, Latourell Falls. and Bridal Veil Falls. You can search for them among the 80 miles of trails in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Some of the more popular trails include Eagle Creek Trail, Dog Mountain Trail, and the Gorge Trail #400.

This is one of the most popular day trips from Portland. This Half Day Waterfalls Tour takes you on a 3.5-hour tour where you’ll visit attractions like Portland Women’s Forum, the Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, Multnomah Falls, and Horse Tail Falls.

3. Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is the highest waterfall in Oregon and the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States. It’s such a popular attraction in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area that it warrants its own mention. Multnomah Falls is a beautiful two-tiered waterfall, with the upper falls standing at 542 feet and the lower falls at 69 feet. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and are one of the top places in Oregon for taking photos.

Visitors can reach the falls by car, bus, or train. There is a parking lot at the site, but it can get crowded during peak season. There is also a shuttle service available during peak season. he Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop trail is a popular option that takes visitors past several waterfalls in the area.

There is also rock climbing in the area and the Columbia River Gorge is known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. The Hood River area is particularly popular for these sports.

4. Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway

We loved road-tripping through Oregon and The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway is a beautiful and historic drive that takes visitors past numerous scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. The drive is approximately 75 miles long and is home to several overlooks, including Crown Point and the Vista House. The historic Columbia River Highway is a great drive to really take in the views.

The byway was constructed between 1913 and 1922 and is considered a marvel of engineering and a masterpiece of highway design. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It is great way to see the highlights of the Columbia River Gorge and its many waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horsetail Falls. Make sure to get out of the car to take in its amazing views, and stops at its various viewpoints, picnic areas, and trails.

One of the more unique ways to explore the Gorge is to get on the water. This Jet Boat Tour takes you along the Willamette River and the mighty Columbia River toward Multnomah Falls at 45 miles per hour. Views you’ll see along the way include, Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, Mount Hood, and more along the way.

Where to Stay at Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

There are plenty of places to stay in the Columbia River Gorge area on both the Washington State and Oregon sides. We’ll stick with Oregon since that is where you are visiting.

5. Visit Bend

Bend is our favorite community in Oregon with so many things to do we gave it our own post! Don’t miss visiting one of its many microbreweries where you can enjoy a cold drink, or float along the Deschutes River while doing some tubing.

With shopping and dining galore, Bend is a great place to make a base when checking out all the things to do in Central Oregon. There are hiking and mountain biking trails and the beautiful Tumalo Falls. Read more at: 26 Fun and Adventurous Things to do in Bend, Oregon

6. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Located in Central Oregon, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument is one of the most fascinating things to do in Oregon. Covering  54,000 acres of the Deschutes National Forest is filled with lava flows and cinder cones that formed thousands of years ago. You can actually go inside Lava Cones to see how they were formed by volcanic eruptions.

The Lava Lands Visitor Center is located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument offering a variety of exhibits and educational displays that explore the geology, ecology, and history of the region.

One of the main attractions at the Lava Lands Visitor Center is the Lava Butte, a cinder cone volcano that rises over 500 feet above the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the butte and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains. The visitor center also offers ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and educational activities for visitors of all ages.

The lava tubes that we explored are Boyd Cave and Lava River Cave. Check out this Newberry half day Volcano trip to explore the lava flow with a professional guide. We toured this area with Wanderlust Tours, (TripAdvisor’s number one-rated tour company) in Bend. Read More: Exploring the Lava Tubes of Bend, Oregon

7. Soak in Some Natural Hot Springs

With all that volcanic activity, you can be. sure there are several hot springs around Bend a few to check out are Paulina Lake and East Lake Hot Springs, and Summer Lake Springs. Breitenbush is the largest thermal spring area in the Oregon Cascades

The Umpqua Hot Springs is worth the hike to its three descending pools located on the North Umpqua River in the Umpqua National Forest surrounded by towering pine trees.

8. High Desert Museum

We’ve been talking a lot about outdoor activities like hitting the biking trails to soaking in the natural beauty of the state, and the High Desert Museum of Bend keeps with that theme.

Staying true to the outdoor adventurous spirit of Bend, the High Desert Museum spans on 135 acres of forest lands and is devoted to the natural and cultural history of the high desert area. Filled with nature trails and outdoor exhibits the museum shares stories of the people, places, and wildlife of the area. There are permanent and changing exhibits offering workshops, animal shows, and lectures.

Where to Stay in Bend

• Oxford Hotel – If you are staying in Bend, we loved our accommodations at The Oxford Hotel located downtown Bend.
• Tetherow Hotel is an award-winning hotel located on a golf course. This luxury property is 10 minutes from downtown, 7 minutes from the Old Mill District, and 20 minutes from Mt. Bachelor with a shuttle service.

9. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

And from Bend, you can enjoy a drive along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway starting from downtown Bend. We actually did a portion of this by bicycle and it was awesome. Read more at Things to do in Bend

The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway begins in the city of Bend and winds its way through the Deschutes National Forest and the Cascade Mountains covering approximately 66 miles of highway. Along the way, visitors can stop at several scenic viewpoints, including Mount Bachelor, the Three Sisters Mountains, and the beautiful Sparks Lake.

The byway is also home to several recreational areas, including several lakes the serene Elk Lake, the clear and shallow Cultus Lake, and the scenic Devils Lake. It is also home to several trails for hiking, including the popular Green Lakes Trail and the challenging South Sister Trail.

The best time to visit Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is in summer and early fall when the weather is mild, and the roads are clear. In the winter months, some portions of the byway are closed due to snow, but it is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, including snowshoers, cross-country skiers, and snowmobilers.

10. Mount Hood National Forest

Speaking of winter, Mount Hood National Forest houses the highest peak in Oregon at 11,239 feet. We visited Oregon in late summer and actually drove through a bit of snow while driving the Mount Hood Scenic Byway, which is a 105-mile route that takes visitors past Mount Hood. There is great skiing here in the winter with hiking in the summer.

Mount Hood National Forest covers over one million acres of land and is a year round destination. In the summer there are more than 1,200 miles of hiking and biking trails and in the winter there is skiing and snowboarding at Timberline Lodge and Ski Area, Mount Hood Meadows, and Ski Bowl

You can check out this Mount Hood Day Trip where you will explore Hood River Valley, and marvel at the Columbia Gorge on a full-day tour from Portland

11. Cove Palisades State Park

Cove Palisades State Park is a public recreation area located in Central Oregon and is yet another place for outdoor lovers to enjoy the natural beauty of Oregon. It covers more than 6000 acres and is located on the eastern side of Lake Billy Chinook.

The park features several campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic areas, and boat ramps. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and water sports on the lake. The park is also home to the Tam-a-lau Trail, a popular hiking trail that leads to the top of a cliff overlooking the lake.

One of the most notable features of Cove Palisades State Park is the Crooked River Canyon, a deep gorge that was carved out by the Crooked River. The canyon is surrounded by towering cliffs and is home to several unique rock formations, including the Chimney Rock and the Island.

12. Crater Lake National Park

Did you know that Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America? Formed by a volcanic eruption 7,700 years ago this scenic lake is a whopping 1943 feet deep. There are no inlets to this lake allowing it to remain pristine and clear and unlike anything you have seen. You can take a guided boat tour of the lake, or hike one of its many trails.

Crater Lake is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Oregon but there are many things to do in Crater Lake National Park besides dipping your toes in the deepest lake in the USA.

There are 90 miles (150 km) of trails for hiking and in the winter you can go snowshoeing here too! Crater Lake National Park also features unique geological formations such as Wizard Island, which is a cinder cone that rises up from the lake, and Phantom Ship, a rock formation that resembles a ghostly ship floating on the water.

Make sure to take a road trip along The 33 mile (53 km) Rim Drive which offers some beautiful scenic views of Southern Oregon. See the National Parks Service for trail closures and more information. (right now certain trails are closed)

Crater Lake National Park is truly one of the best things to do in Oregon and here’s a fun fact, Crater Lake National Park is the only National Park in Oregon. It has National Forests, National Monuments, and state parks but Crater Lake is the only National Park!

13. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Oregon is filled with a diverse landscape. You can be in lush forests one minute and high desert plains another. At the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument in Central Oregon, you are transported to an ecosystem that reminds me of the Badlands. With layered fossils and colorful cliffs, they are one of the most popular attractions in Oregon.

The Painted Hills reminded us of Rainbow Mountain in Peru. The colorful layers stand out creating such a striking scene, they were named one of Oregon’s 7 Wonders. The Painted Hills Overlook Trail is the best for showcasing its beauty. Another way to take in the scene is to take a drive along the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument covers over 14,000 acres of land and is home to one of the most diverse and well-preserved fossil records in the world, with fossils dating back over 50 million years. The monument has three different units, and each unit has a visitor center with exhibits that showcase the fossil history of the area. These exhibits include fossils of plants, mammals, and insects.

14. Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is a spectacular 300-mile (480 km) long stretch of coastline. It is so spectacular that it too is a part of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Cannon Beach is the perfect place to make a base while exploring the Oregon Coast. Featured in movies such as The Goonies and Point Break, this beautiful beach is definitely one of the top things to do in Oregon on the coast.

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is located along the Oregon Coast and they are the most temperate coastal sand dunes in the world stretching for 40 miles. This is the place to try your hand at sandboarding.

15. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is the most recognizable beach in Oregon with the Haystack Rock standing guard. Haystack Rock rises 235 feet from the edge of the shoreline creating a striking scene.

Cannon Beach was named one of the most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic and it was featured heavily in the movies The Goonies. There are plenty of places to stay and things to do off the beach including hiking, craft brewery tours, and plenty of birdlife including puffins!

This Oregon Coast Day Tour takes you to the white sand beaches of Oregon on a full-day tour. Stops include, including Cannon Beach to see Haystack Rock, Short Sand Beach at Oswald West State Park, Ecola State Park, and Neahkahnie Point to view the dramatic Oregon Coastline

16. Thor’s Well

One of the best places to visit in Oregon for photographers is the magnificent Thor’s Well. This impressive sinkhole is located on Highway 101 / Oregon Coast Highway just outside of Yachats in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area.

It requires a bit of hiking so wear proper footwear and keep your wits about you as the Oregon Coast can change without notice. Make sure to keep a safe distance away as people have been swept away here.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a popular place to visit for families. Located on the scenic Oregon coast, with views of Yaquina Bay and the Pacific Ocean, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery while learning about the marine life that inhabits it.

We have a love-hate relationship with aquariums but also understand that it is the conservation efforts and funds of aquariums that are helping to save the oceans. At the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the animals are housed in environments that mimic their natural habitats as closely as possible, and they are fed diets that meet their nutritional needs.

The aquarium participates in various conservation efforts, such as sea otter rehabilitation and the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network, which rescues and rehabilitates stranded marine animals.

17. Astoria

Located at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is another popular tourist destination in Oregon. One of the main reasons to visit Astoria is its connection to the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition.

In 1805 explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, reached the mouth of the Columbia River and established a camp near what is now Astoria. Today, visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park in Astoria, which includes several sites related to the expedition, including the reconstructed Fort Clatsop, where the expedition spent the winter of 1805-1806.

While in Astoria make sure you climb the Astor Column for some great views and be sure to check out its many museums including the Oregon Film Museum located in the Old Clatsop County Jail that was featured in The Goonies.

Another highlight here is driving across the Astoria-Megler Bridge, the longest continuous truss bridge in the United States. It spans 4.1 miles across the Columbia River connecting Oregon to Washington State.

18. Columbia River Maritime Museum

The Columbia River Maritime Museum is located in Astoria and deserves its own section. Located on the waterfront, it showcases the significant role this historic port city has played in Oregon’s history for more than two centuries.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that explore the history of the Columbia River. Visitors can see artifacts and displays related to the region’s maritime industry, including fishing boats, shipping vessels, navigation tools, and maritime art. The museum also has an extensive collection of photographs and archives that document the history of the area.

19. Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is located on the northern coast of Oregon spanning 4,200 acres of land, including 9 miles of ocean shoreline. The park is named after the historic Fort Stevens, which was built in the late 1800s and served as a military defense installation during the Civil War, World War I, and World War II.

One of the must-stops on your road trip is the Peter Iredale Shipwreck, this shipwreck is located directly on the beach and is a very popular photo stop. This area includes the historic fort, military batteries, and the Oregon Military Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the fort and military defense in Oregon.

If you want to stretch your legs, the Columbia River Beach is a long stretch of beach and is popular for beachcombing and exploring the tide pools.

20. Oregon Coast Trail

If you love sandy beaches, a rugged coastline, and exploration, then the Oregon Coast Trail is one of the best. This trail takes you along 363 miles of coastline on the Pacific Coast. It is composed of several trails if you want to divide up your hike, one of the best is in Ecola State Park which takes you just a little inside the coast for amazing cliff views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Oregon Coast Trail starts at the Columbia River south jetty in Fort Stevens State Park. The trail ends at the California border in Southern Oregon at Crissey Field State Recreation Site. Read more: 12 Best Hikes in Oregon That Will Blow Your Mind

21. Pacific Crest Trail

If you are looking for more of a challenge, The Pacific Crest Trail runs from The Washington border to southern Oregon 455.2-miles. If you want a taste of what the hikers feel like going from Canada to Mexico, hop on it for a couple of days and start hiking.

You’ll pass through miles of lodgepole pines, views of Crater Lake, the Oregon Cascade Mountains, wildflowers, rivers, wildlife, and a whole lot more. You don’t have to do the entire Pacific Crest Trail, you can join it at any time. Check the PCT Oregon Website for day hikes around Oregon.

Plus you can say you did the Pacific Crest National Trail without having to hike all 4200 km of it. Get more information on where to hike the Pacific Crest Trail at the PCT Association Oregon.

22. Oregon Caves National Monument

Located in the Siskiyou Mountains of Southern Oregon, Oregon Caves National Monument is a must for people looking for adventurous things to do in Oregon for the whole family. This unique destination is located in southern Oregon, near the city of Cave Junction.

Oregon Caves National Monument was established in 1909 and covers over 480 acres of protected land. The centerpiece of the monument is the Oregon Caves, which are a series of marble caverns that were formed by underground streams over millions of years.

Take a guided cave tour (note: Visitors must be 42 inches tall to join to tour) that is led by a park ranger to see the underground caves and the unique stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. The tour is about 90 minutes and you’ll make your way through a half-mile path of narrow passages as low as 45 inches high. Visit the website for tour details.

23. Sea Lions Cave

Speaking of Caves, Sea Lions Cave is a fun place to visit in Oregon to view sea lions frolicking on the rocks. Located on the Oregon coast near the town of Florence, it is the largest sea cave in America and it is the only known mainland rookery (breeding ground) of Stellar sea lions in the United States. The cave was discovered in 1880 and was later developed into a tourist attraction in the 1930s.

The cave is more than 12 stories tall and is about the size of a football field. There is an elevator that will take you down to the caves where you will get to explore the largest sea cave in America. This unique adventure lets visitors watch the sea lions lounging on rocks, swimming in the water, and interacting with each other.

Besides the Stellar sea lions, the cave’s walls are home to a variety of marine animals, including harbor seals, and sea birds. The best time to visit Sea Lion Caves is during the winter and spring months when the sea lions are most active. During this time, visitors can see hundreds of sea lions in the cave, as well as on the rocks outside of the cave.

This is truly one of the most unique things to do in Oregon. How often do you get to view sea lions in their natural habitat within a huge grotto from the safety of a viewing platform?

24. Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a beautiful stretch of the Oregon coast that weaves along the Pacific Ocean in southern Oregon. It treats road trippers with views of rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches. There are several scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and natural landmarks, such as Arch Rock, Natural Bridges, and Secret Beach.

This 12-mile (19 km) stretch of coastline is located on the southern coast of Oregon and runs from just south of the city of Brookings to the Pistol River. It’s a short stretch, but it can take a full day to truly appreciate its beauty and to enjoy its hiking trails, wildlife viewing (including whale spotting), and stopping at its historical landmarks.

25. Willamette Valley Vineyards

The Willamette Valley is home to Oregon wine country. It has more than 500 wineries within 150 miles of the Willamette Valley producing some of the best Pinot Noirs in America. (the character Miles of Sideways would be very happy).

This beautiful region is perfect for cycling, hiking, and slowing down as you hop from vineyard to vineyard. Book this Willamette Valley Wine Tour on a day trip from Portland taking you through the rolling farmland and vineyards of the Willamette Valley.

There are other wine regions outside the Willamette Valley in Oregon too! In fact, there are 21 wine regions in Oregon producing 100 different varieties of grapes. The Faith, Hope, and Charity Vineyard is a 15-acre vineyard that produces fantastic red and white wines just 20 minutes from Bend Oregon. We loved the welcoming hospitality of their elegant western tasting room while enjoying the gorgeous views of Central Oregon.

26. Silver Falls State Park

If you are looking for waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park should be at the top of your list of things to do in Oregon. Located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, east of Salem, it covers over 9,000 acres of protected land.

One of the top things to do in Silver Falls State Park is to take a hike along the Trail of Ten Falls which weaves through a forest landscape passing a series of ten waterfalls. This moderate 7.2-mile loop is well-maintained and is a must-see.

Silver Falls State Park has everything you can expect from a State Park including picnic areas, campgrounds, and day-use facilities. In the summer months, visitors can swim and fish in the park’s streams and pools, and in the winter months, visitors can snowshoe or cross-country ski on the park’s trails.

27. Go Horseback Riding at Brasada Ranch

Our stay at Brasada Ranch was one of our favorite things to do in Oregon and heading out on a trail ride was unforgettable. Located in Central Oregon just 30 minutes from Bend this is a Dude Ranch combined with urban elegance. There are trail rides where you can explore the high desert landscape, learn of the Indigenous culture, and take in the spectacular views while horseback riding.

Our ride took us out to Spirit Rock which looked like a picture right out of an old Western movie. The smell of sage filled the air and desert shrubs blew in the wind along the dusty trail. We then enjoyed a luxurious spa and a five-star dinner. Book your night at the Brasada Ranch.

28. Willamette National Forest

For a state that has so many outstanding state parks and natural beauty, it just keeps on coming. The vast Willamette National Forest spans 1.6 million acres.

One of the main attractions at Willamette National Forest is the Three Sisters Wilderness, a protected wilderness area that includes three volcanic peaks known as the Three Sisters. The area offers a wide range of hiking trails that lead through alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and across rushing streams. Visitors can also explore the many lakes and waterfalls that dot the landscape, including the popular Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

Another popular attraction in the Willamette National Forest is the McKenzie River Trail, a 26-mile-long trail that follows the McKenzie River through the forest. The trail offers stunning views of the river and passes by several notable attractions, including the Tamolitch Blue Pool and the Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

29. Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is located in southern Oregon in Ashland and is one of the largest and most prominent regional theaters in the United States. As you may have guessed, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival mainly produces the works of William Shakespeare.

The festival was founded in 1935 and has since become a cultural icon in the Pacific Northwest region. It attracts over 400,000 visitors each year and is one of the biggest tourist draws in the state of Oregon. The plays are performed in three different theaters, including the iconic outdoor Elizabethan Theatre, which seats over 1,000 people.

It reminds me a lot of the Stratford Festival here in Ontario, Canada. Seeing a Shakespearean play performed by professional actors is something you truly must experience at least once in your life.

30. Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Making our way out to the Wallowa Mountains, the Wallowa Whitman National Forest is yet another popular hiking destination in Oregon. Some popular hikes include the Chief Joseph Trail, the Eagle Cap Wilderness Loop, and the Wallowa Lake Trail.

And like many places in Oregon, this national forest has scenic drives, camping and year-round outdoor activities. Hop in your car and enjoy the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and the Wallowa Mountain Loop Road drives and keep an eye out for elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and black bears. In the winter, The Anthony Lakes Ski Resort is a popular destination for downhill skiing and snowboarding.

31. Wallowa Lake Tramway

For a scenic ride take the tramway to the top of Mt. Howard for panoramic views of Wallowa Lake. Located in Northeastern Oregon, the 3700-foot tramway rises up through the Wallowa Mountains making it one of the most popular things to do in Oregon. Sit at the top and enjoy a cocktail as you take in the rugged scenic views.

The Wallowa Mountains are often compared to the Swiss Alps and if you have ever seen the Swiss Alps, you’ll know that is a very high compliment. See details here.

32. Spend Time in Portland

No “best things to do in Oregon” article would be complete without mentioning Portland. The largest city in Oregon is located where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers meet creating an amazing destination for outdoor lovers in search of a coold city vibe.

Portland totally surprised us with its laid-back hip vibes. Their slogan is fittingly “Keep Portland Weird”. There are so many things to do in Portland it warrants its own post, but we are going to highlight a few of our favorite outdoor things to do so you can keep reading.

Like Bend, it is known for its microbrews but there are so many places to visit in Portland. Notable things to do are: eat at one of its many food trucks and peruse the over one million books at Powell’s City of Books. This bookstore is one of the most iconic places to visit in Portland covering an entire city block. Walk across the St. John’s Bridge for views of the Willamette River, and check out the many museums and gardens.

33. Washington Park

Washington Park is a sprawling urban oasis that is easily accessed with the help of Portland’s light rail. Spanning 458 acres, this is an urban park that is filled with plenty of attractions. Washington Park houses the Oregon Zoo, an archery range, tennis courts, an arboretum and plenty of trails. But it is its two unique gardens that are a star attraction.

Rose Garden

Known as the City of Roses, Portland is home to the stunning and public Rose Test Garden. Found within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden boasts 500 varieties of roses sources from around the globe. The roses are sent here to test the viability and the plant’s characteristics.

Although open year-round, the garden is best seen between the months of May and September. During that time period, more than 10,000 rose bushes bloom in unison, backed by the incredible views of Mt Hood. After the garden, wander over to the iconic ice cream shop Salt & Straw for some distinctive ice cream flavors.

Portland Japanese Garden

Considered one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is another garden located within Washington Park and is not to be missed. We have visited a lot of Japanese and Chinese Gardens in our day and they are a beautiful place to find your Zen.It has the usual elements of an Asian garden with water features, rocks, gardens, and buildings blending all of the elements beautifully together.

The most notable garden is Portland’s Japanese Garden. We’d never been big on gardens until we visited Japan. Seeing Japanese Gardens changed our tune. They are as beautiful as they are serene. The Japanese Garden in Portland is modeled after the gardens of Japan with rocks, pagodas, gardens, and ponds.

34. Portland Museums

If you are finding a little too many things to do in Oregon outside on this list, spend some time indoors enjoying Portland’s Museums. There are plenty to see, but here are a couple of standouts.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) was founded in 1944 and is one of the oldest science museums in the United States. If you are looking for things to do in Portland on a rainy day, this is the place.

The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive displays that explore various scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and technology. Some of the most popular exhibits at OMSI include the Earth Science Hall, where visitors can explore a replica of a Pacific Northwest cave, and the Turbine Hall, which features large-scale demonstrations of water and electricity.

Portland Art Museum

Art lovers will enjoy the Portland Art Museum. Located near the Portland State University campus, the art museum features work from across the globe and also focuses on Pacific Northwest Native American Art.

You could spend a full day wandering the halls and taking in several masterpieces, stunning photography, and iconic prints. However, even with just an hour or two, you can still make the most of the experience.

Where to stay in Portland

• The Benson a Coastal Hotel – This elegant hotel has been serving guests for more than a century. The four-diamond landmark hotel was a great stay in the heart of downtown Portland.
• The Jupiter – This was a very cool-themed hotel that brought us back in time. This old motor inn has been transformed into a boutique hotel tastefully decorated with mid-century design.

And these are the best things to do in Oregon. Have you visited the Pacific Northwest? What are your favourite Oregon Attractions?

The beaches in Mexico are wonderful. When you think of Mexico’s beaches, swaying palm trees, white sand, and electric beach clubs immediately spring to mind. Mexico is shouldered by the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Gulf of Mexico laps its shores on the east. Beautiful beaches line both coastlines – with extra impressive regions like the Yucatan Peninsula. With so many options, you could easily spend years beach hopping in Mexico and still not see each beach town and sandy shore. So where are the best beaches in Mexico? Let’s take a look.

Most Beautiful Beaches in Mexico

There are just so many places to visit in Mexico if you want a beach day. To narrow things down, we’ve collected a list of the ultimate 22 best beaches in Mexico. Grab a beach towel or a surfboard and set these beaches in Mexico as your next destination.

1. Playa Del Amor – Cabo San Lucas

Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach) easily bags the crown as one of the most breathtaking beaches in Mexico. This beautiful beach in Mexico is located on Baja California Sur in the small beach town of Cabo San Lucas. Photogenically, it backs onto the famous rock formation of El Arco.

The sharp orange-yellow color of the beach contrasts the jagged rocks that jut out of the sand beautifully, and it is a dramatic place to spend a beach day. Lover’s Beach (as it’s translated) is only accessible by boat where you can keep an eye out for sea lions along the way. You can also visit the nearby Playa Divorcio, the beach on the other side of the rocks nicknamed for its rough seas.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular getaway destination on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula. Cabo San Lucas is surrounded by some of Mexico’s best beaches, and Playa del Amor is easily one of these top few. Read more: 22 Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Where to Stay in Cabo San Lucas

Marquis Los Cabos is an award-winning all-inclusive resort, recently recognized in 2022 as the Traveller’s Choice Best of the Best. The resort is ideally located on the Baja Peninsula, offering stunning ocean views and lush garden grounds.

Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cabo San Lucas. The chic property backs onto Medano Beach, which is renowned as a brilliant beach for swimmers and overlooks Marina Cabo San Lucas. 

2. Hidden Beach – Nayarit

Hidden Beach is technically isolated from everything else. It is located on the Marietas Islands nature reserve in the middle of the ocean. It is best accessed via a boat trip from Nueva Vallarta. It is one of the best beaches in Mexico, located somewhere that requires a sense of adventure to reach. Its unique looks definitely earn it its spot on this guide, though.

Hidden Beach looks much like the cave beaches in Portugal. The beach is encircled by a massive ring of stone above, where a sea cave roof collapsed and left a hole. It is a magical addition to these Mexico beaches where you can keep an eye out for Marine life, including dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles on your tirp.

And in terms of nearby activities, Puerto Vallarta has so many things to do, like visiting the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Where to Stay

Grand Palladium – We loved our stay at the Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort located just north of Nueva Vallarta. With an adults-only section, this all-inclusive resort is located on a private beach on Banderas Bay with an infinity pool, 6 restaurants, and 8 bars. Adults-only guests have access to the family section as well.

3. Isla Holbox

Playa Holbox is one of the best beaches in Mexico for island living. Located off the shore of the Yucatan Peninsula on Isla Holbox, Playa Holbox is a white sand beach that deserves to be the most popular beach on the island.

The little island is perfect for sneaking away from major Mexico destinations like Playa del Carmen and Cancun Beach. And Playa Holbox is a peaceful spot on Isla Holbox with some entertainment in the form of a kiteboarding school and beachfront restaurants.

Once a sleepy fishing village, Holbox Island has gained notoriety in the last decade but managed to retain its small-town charm. There’s so much to do and see in Holbox, but if you’re visiting from May 15 to September 17, take the tour to swim with the whale sharks.  We like its white sand aesthetic and the peaceful vibe on Isla Holbox. Learning to kiteboard is also exciting to break up your standard day of sunbathing and swimming. Read more: 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico

Where to Stay in Holbox

Mystique Holbox by Royalton offers 5-star waterfront property near Playa Holbox just minutes from the main town. The resort offers free bicycles and tours.

4. Playa Centro

Playa Centro is located on Isla Mujeres, a stunning island in Mexico surrounded by bright blue, shallow waters. Isla Mujeres translates as “island of women” in an ode to its natural beauty. It is one of the most paradisiacal beach destinations in Mexico.

Playa Norte is the main beach on Isla Mujeres but Playa Centro sees fewer crowds and is great for swimming. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best beaches in Mexico. It is one of the prettiest white sand beaches, full of palm trees and a rustic-looking wooden boardwalk.

One of the top things to do here is to go snorkeling or diving at the Museo Subacuatico de Arte (MUSA) an underwater museum of art.

Where to Stay on Isla Mujeres

For a great place to stay on Isla Mujeres, check out the Privilege Aluxes Adults Only Resort. We’d plan a trip to Isla Mujeres just to visit Playa Centro. It has the iconic ‘dream island’ appeal and genuinely looks like it has just fallen off a luxury holiday magazine page. Read more: 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

5. Playa Balandra

Playa Balandra is a beautiful beach amid the significant city of La Paz on the California Baja Sur peninsula. This Mexico beach is claimed by many to be the most beautiful in the country. Best accessed by boat, it is located in a stunning protected area surrounded by mangroves and coastal mountains. We were lucky enough to paddle for 10 days through this stunning landscape while camping on its pristine beaches. Sea Kayaking Baja Mexico – A Remarkable 10 Day Journey

Playa Balandra is one of the best beaches to experience Mexican environmental conservation firsthand. It is a vital part of the natural ecosystem and is home to many species like herons and snapper fish. To protect Playa Balandra, visitor capacity limits were put in place, and vendors were banned. It is a bucket list beach to visit in Mexico, and it’s amazing how valuable it is to the environment.

Where to stay in La Paz

Hotel Marina – the hotel where we stayed in La Paz is a great choice. From the hotel, you can walk 5.5 km (3.5 miles) from, along the beautiful waterfront promenade known as the Malecón. There is nothing more romantic than taking a stroll around La Paz hand in hand with your honey admiring the street art.

5. Cancun Beach

You cannot write a round-up about Mexico beaches without including the beaches of Cancun. Arguably the most popular beach in Mexico, Cancun Beach is a collection of different beaches stretching 14 miles (22km) along the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. It is lined with luxury resorts, restaurants, and a bustling nightlife scene.

For an all-inclusive vacation in Mexico, this is a go-to for many. Cancun Beach is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it a prime location for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Where to Stay in Cancun

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Resort Cancun is one of the most stunning adults-only resorts in Mexico. The Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Resort Cancun is located just north of the Riviera Maya on the Cancun Riviera.

‘Intimate but casual’ is Hyatt Zilara Cancun’s mantra. The all-inclusive resort is located heart of the Cancun Hotel Zone yet holds an intimate slice of private beach that maintains a sense of tranquility.

 Secrets The Vine Cancun – Located in the south of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, The Vine is also ideally situated for tourists wanting to experience the best of Cancun. We love its location, water views on both sides of the building, and thoughtful furnishings and services. TripAdvisor

6. Playa Tortugas

Playa Tortugas is one of the most visually striking Cancun beaches. If you value beach aesthetics, it is easily one of the best beaches in Mexico. The soft, light blue waters are shallow enough for young children to paddle. Those wanting a relaxing beach day will love its calm waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Visitors tend to go snorkeling, dine at the beachfront eateries, or rent a jet ski at a push. Of course, part of the draw of this Mexico beach is its location in Cancun. There are so many things to do in Cancun, and we have an entire guide on where to stay, which we’ll link here.

Where to stay

The Tower By Temptation is an outgoing, fun-loving all-inclusive resort in Mexico. At night, the seven-story resort complex transforms into nightlife central. It is one of the best adults-only resorts if you want to let your hair down and party.

7. Playa Ruinas – Tulum

Playa Ruinas is a beautiful beach located on the Riviera Maya with a clue in its name. This Mexican beach is located in Tulum under the shadow of the ancient walls of a Mayan city. It’s this historical element that caught our attention, and it makes visiting a wonderful thing to do in Tulum.

Its ancient Mayan history is what first attracted people to Tulum, but the beaches here are stunning.

The beach itself is a narrow stretch of sand in bright white. But the most exciting things are the ancient walls and animals you spot nearby – including sea turtles and monkeys. You reach the beach via a short hiking trail, whisking you past wildlife and Mayan ruins.

Where to Stay in Tulum

Tago Tulum by G Hotels is located in the Tulum hotel zone directly on Tulum Beach. It’s a great place to enjoy the beach and visit Tulum Archeological Site (6 km away) and the Parque Nacional Tulum, (3.9 km away)

8. Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is on our list as one of the best beaches in Mexico for partying. This beach destination in the Yucatan Peninsula on the glitzy Riviera Maya. It is known for its picture-perfect swaying palm trees along its busy boulevard and the rows of beach bars, luxury hotels, and nightclubs behind the white sand. Playa del Carmen is fantastic for a busy itinerary with lots of things to do.

Playa del Carmen is hugely popular amongst guests at nearby resorts and always has a bit of action to get involved with. While it was initially a little fishing town, it has evolved into a coastal metropolis, with pedestrian streets selling name brands in chic boutiques, high-end restaurants, and hotels.

Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen

Hilton Playa del Carmen is ideally situated in downtown Playa del Carmen – where you can shop, drink, and indulge in tourist attractions within minutes. 

9. Puerto Vallarta Beach

Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta Beach has long been one of the best beach destinations in Mexico. Known for its golden sand stretching along the Sierra Madre Mountains it is a destination for swimming and enjoying watersports like parasailing and jet skiing. Read more: 26 Best Things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico In 2023

The beach is located in the heart of the city, which means that visitors have easy access to restaurants, bars, and shops. There are also several beach clubs that offer amenities such as lounge chairs, umbrellas, and food and drink service. Take a stroll along the Malecon to view its sculptures and art installations and make sure to get out on Banderas Bay is one of the largest natural bays in the world and is home to an abundance of marine life, making it a popular spot for fishing, whale watching, and diving.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Secrets Vallarta Bay Todo Incluido is one of the best-inclusive resorts in Puerto Vallarta. The five-star property is just minutes from the famous ‘El Malecon’. Check it out on TripAdvisor

10. Playa Sayulita

Playa Sayulita may not be the place for natural beauty, peace, and quiet located 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. However, it is the spot for action – be it purchasing coconut drinks from beach vendors or spontaneously agreeing to learn to surf.

Playa Sayulita is one of the best beaches in Mexico for pushing you out of your comfort zone and socializing with other beachgoers. It is also conveniently located in the center of Sayulita, a major coastal town on Mexico’s Pacific Ocean shores. The number of arts and crafts stores and the constant conveyor belt of surf lessons made us include this spot in our guide.

Where to Stay in Playa Sayulita

Playa Escondita Sayulita is a boutique resort in the jungle just one mile from Sayulita, on the Riviera Nayarit.

11. Playa De Los Muertos

Playa de los Muertos is the ‘second’ beach in Sayulita, a beach town just north of Puerto Vallarta. While not the area’s main beach, it still attracts plenty of buzz and is full of rental chairs and umbrellas. We like the exciting route it requires to reach Playa del los Muertos, which may hint at its namesake.

You take a short walk south through an old cemetery to reach the beach. The pleasant route gives an intriguing insight into Mexican culture as you pass the gravestones. It is a quieter choice for a beach day with a twist.

Where to Stay

Casa Velas is the getaway that you’ve been dreaming of. It has a fantastic location just 10 km from Los Muertos Beach. Check reviews and rates on TripAdvisor

12. Playa La Ropa – Zihuatanejo

Playa La Ropa is one of those palm-lined beaches you immediately know that you’ll love. In Mexico, beaches usually come with palm trees and white sand, and Playa La Ropa does not disappoint with its good looks. The beach is also incredible for watersports, which caught our eye. You can get your heartbeat racing with anything from parasailing to waterskiing or have a calmer experience by chartering your own sailboat.

The beach caught its unusual name from the wreckage of a Spanish galleon. The boat’s cargo included a load of silks, and the beach’s name stuck as ‘clothes beach’. Playa La Ropa is in Zihuatanejo, a resort city on the Pacific coast.

Where to Stay

Villa Soleil is a small boutique hotel on the water, steps away from La Ropa Beach, 1.6 km from Las Gatas Beach, and 2.1 km from La Madera Beach. This beachfront property has a pool with a view and air conditioning.

13. Playa Las Gatas – Zihuatanejo

Playa las Gatas is one of the best beaches in Mexico and has one of the most distinctive names. ‘Gatas’ means cats in Spanish, and the beach got its name from the wildcats and nurse sharks (with feline-like whiskers) that used to roam the shores. Nowadays, the number of wildcats and nurse sharks is zero, but the coral reefs still have plenty of tropical fish.

Playa las Gatas is just outside the resort town of Zihuatanejo and is famous for those wanting to snorkel or enjoy a peaceful beach.

Where to Stay

Villa Soleil is a small boutique hotel on the water, steps away from La Ropa Beach, 1.6 km from Las Gatas Beach, and 2.1 km from La Madera Beach. This beachfront property has a pool with a view and air conditioning.

14. Costa Azul – San José de Cabo

Costa Azul is a surfing hotspot in San Jose del Cabo, just east of Cabo San Lucas, at the base of the Baja California Sur peninsula. Unlike the busy swimming beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Costa Azul has a quieter vibe. It is unabashedly tailored to surfers over regular beachgoers – ideal for surfing enthusiasts. You can head down and have a surfing lesson or rent a board and shred the waves alone. Costa Azul is spacious enough to not feel like you are surfing on top of each other. And at sunrise and sunset, it is a beautiful place for a stroll or surf.

The surf culture prompted us to include Costa Azul in our guide. We also were impressed by the quieter vibe in San Jose del Cabo compared to the beach town of Cabo San Lucas. It is an excellent nearby alternative for peace, quiet, and quality surfing.

Where to Stay

SIX TWO FOUR Urban Beach Hotel is a 4-star urban hotel in San Jose del Cabo. There is a swimming pool, and its close to the beach and the San Jose Estuary.

15. Playa El Tecolote

Playa El Tecolote is one of Mexico’s best beaches; judging by its picture, you probably already see why. This Mexican beach is one of the country’s most secluded beaches on Isla Espíritu Santo off the Baja California Sur. As another island beach, this destination is only accessible by boat trip. The uninhabited island is a mysterious and rugged place to enjoy a beach day. And if you are looking for an exciting day trip, sailing to Isla Espíritu Santo tops most other choices.

Of course, with it being so remote, Playa El Tecolote attracts wildlife that the main beaches in Mexico couldn’t. The peaceful waters are havens for whale sharks, sea lions, and more common marine life like dolphins and sea turtles. If you want to go snorkeling with marine life, Playa El Tecolote is a hotspot for wildlife spotting trips.

Where to Stay

Staying in La Paz is your best option for Playa el Tecolote and Hotel La Concha Beach Resort is located on a private beach with a pool and spa. It is just a short drive to the restaurant and bar zone downtown.

16. Playa Xpu Ha – riviera Maya

Playa Xpu Ha is frequently hailed as the best-kept secret on the Riviera Maya – so much so that we debated whether we should include it in this guide. Let’s keep this one on the low. It is easily one of Mexico’s prettiest white sand beaches and has bright blue waters. It has that tropical desert island appeal. Like it has just jumped out of a movie.

Located halfway between Playa del Carme and Tulum. The north beach has no facilities and is a dreamily peaceful place to sunbathe or stroll. The south beach has two beach clubs, favored amongst local partiers rather than other tourists.

Playa Xpu Ha is one of the best beaches in Mexico if you want a ‘local’ beach atmosphere. Rent a car and take the adventurous drive to the secluded beach, taking care not to miss the obscure highway marker that tells you to turn off.

Where to Stay

Serenity Authentic Glamping is a luxurious tented camp located near the beach and surrounded by jungle. Places nearby include Xcacel Beach and Xcacel-Xcacelito Sanctuary. Xcaret Eco Theme Park and Akumal Ecological Center 

17. Playa La Entrega – Bahías de Huatulco

Playa La Entrega is one of Mexico’s most pristine beaches. Its calm waters and intensely colored coral reefs make it one of the best swimming beaches. The abundance of marine life is best appreciated from the water.

Bring snorkeling gear or arrange a scuba diving tour if you have your PADI (or plan to get it in Mexico). Many Huatulco Bay boat tours include a stop at Playa La Entrega, so if you choose one, double-check whether they provide snorkel gear.

All of this is impressive, but the cherry on top for us was the number of seafood restaurants in Playa La Entrega. There are tons of seafood stalls selling freshly caught produce along the sands. The Mexican Caribbean influence on cuisine is delicious. Playa La Entrega is a brilliant place to sample some yummy seafood dishes. 4 Days in Oaxaca City, Mexico – The Ultimate Itinerary

Where to Stay

Binniguenda Huatuclo – This renovated in 2012 hotel has 3 Restaurants, 4 bars. There’s a swimming pool, beach club and entertainment.

18. Playa Pescadores

Playa Pescadores is a stunning stretch of white sand outside Tulum on the Riviera Maya. If Playa Pescadores were to flutter its eyelashes and win you over with one thing, it would be its marine life. It is a hotspot for manta rays and sea turtles. In fact, pack snorkeling gear, and chances are you’ll find them.

Playa Pescadores runs into other beautiful beaches like Playa Paraiso, Playa Santa Fe, and Playa Ruinas (which we’ve already covered). You could walk for hours between all the beaches, and Tulum’s nearby Mayan ruins are stunning. Check out all the Mayan Ruins near Tulum at The Best Mayan Ruins Near Tulum.

Where to Stay

Villa Pescadores Tulum is a beachfront property with a swimming pool and is located in a great location. Just 5 minutes to Tulum Archaeological Site and 3.4 mi from Tulum main square

19. Playa La Lancha – Punta Mita

Playa La Lancha is one of the best beaches in Mexico for surfers. If you want to catch some waves, remember this beach destination. Located in Punta Mita, Playa La Lancha has an exclusive location, but its waves welcome everyone. It has consistent year-round swells that are mellow, so best suited to beginners, intermediates, and those wanting to longboard.

Be prepared to hike with your surfboard to get there, but a ten-minute walk through the jungle is easily forgiven when you catch sight of the beautiful views. It is impossible not to love the jungle setting, especially if you are looking for a remote surfing spot.

Where to Stay

Grand Palladium – The Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort is located just north of Playa la Lancha. With an adults-only section, this all-inclusive resort is located on a private beach on Banderas Bay with an infinity pool, 6 restaurants, and 8 bars. Adults-only guests have access to the family section as well.

20. Paradise Beach – Cozumel

Paradise Beach is one of the best beaches in Mexico to let your hair down. The private all-inclusive beach club takes over a long stretch of golden sand. Paradise Beach Club is backed by resort facilities like a heated pool, inflatable obstacle courses, and services like massage and spa packages. You pay an entrance fee for the day and then have a free run of the club. It is pure fun and games – which is why we’ve decided to include it.

Paradise Beach Club is located on the island of Cozumel off of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. There’s plenty to do nearby and lots of regional highlights including the Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park and Zona Arqueologica El Caracol. You can book a day at the beach club.

Where to Stay

Iberostar Cozumel – Why book a day when you can book an entire vacation in Cozumel at a resort on the Caribbean Sea? You can’t go wrong with an Iberostar. This five-star accommodation features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and garden.

21. Playa Norte – Mazatlan

Playa Norte is located on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Sat on the shores of the major resort town of Mazatlan, Playa Norte is located just off the Malecón. Thanks to the popularity of Mazatlan, Playa Norte is easily one of the most popular beaches in Mexico.

Here you’ll find some of the softest sand in Mexico. There are plenty of restaurants and it is located near the Fisherman’s Monument where you can see fishermen selling their catch.

The town is known for being more authentic and untouched than Puerto Vallarta while still having a tourist buzz. It is easy to reach and popular to book, yet it still has a sense of its original character. But there are plenty of outdoor things to do from the visiting Parque Natural Faro Mazatlan and there is plenty of marine life making this beach ideal for snorkeling.

Where to Stay

Hotel Playa Mazatlan offers the choice of an all-inclusive plan or a European plan. Located right on the beach this is a good family resort.

22. Playa Zicatela – Puerto Escondido

Playa Zicatela is the longest beach in Puerto Escondido. Its strong waves make it best for one thing – surfing. And in fact, it is the only beach in Puerto Escondido that we’d recommend totally avoiding for swimming. For the experienced surfer, though, Playa Zicatela is heaven on earth. At sunset, Playa Zicatela holds a particular sort of beauty. Playa Zicatela is a popular beach on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Even if you don’t surf, it is blissful to head down for a cocktail on the sands to watch the surfers shredding waves as the sky turns pink. Its beauty and surfing suitability are the main factors that prompted us to include it in this guide.

Where to Stay

Hotel Terrestre –  5-star beachfront accommodations with a swimming pool, garden, and terrace. Each room hotel has sea views, and guests can enjoy access to a restaurant and a bar.

23. Playa Carrizalillo

Playa Carrizalillo is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach in the town of Puerto Escondido. The beach is in a small bay and is an attractive alternative to the major beaches further along the coastline. You access the beach via a steep public footpath with stone steps and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean.

Playa Carrizalillo is a popular beach despite its small size. So, time your visit with off-peak hours to get the most out of the experience. The calm waters are ideal for swimming – the cold water will be much needed after tackling over 160 steps.

Where to Stay

Villas Carrizalillo is a waterfront property, 1.5 miles from Zicatela Beach There is an outdoor pool and restaurant on site with some rooms including a kitchenette.

How to find The Best Beaches in Mexico

A beach day is always fun to spend part of your vacation. But these best beaches in Mexico are really worth your time. You’ll love these beaches – whether you pick the glorious Yucatan Peninsula or settle on the shores of the Baja California Sur in Cabo San Lucas. There is scuba diving, surfing, deep sea fishing, and partying. Plus, some of the most beautiful beaches to curl up on with a book or podcast.

Are you looking for an ideal adult holiday in Mexico? Check out these 22 top adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Mexico. Have a fantastic time on these best beaches in Mexico.

If you haven’t been to Munich you are missing out! The capital city of Bavaria is filled with history and beer halls, green spaces, and plenty of museums. Whether you are visiting Munich for its famed Oktoberfest or simply enjoying its beer gardens and upbeat energy, you are going to love your time in Munich. These are the best things to do in Munich, Germany that you cannot miss!

Best Things to Do in Munich

Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria, located in the southeastern part of the country. With a population of over 1.5 million people, it is the third-largest city in Germany after Berlin and Hamburg. Munich got its name from the monks who founded it. München means monk in German, hence the name Munich.

If you are planning a road trip through Bavaria or simply traveling around to see the best cities in Germany, you are going to love Munich. We are highlighting the best places to visit in Munich that you simply cannot miss! You may also like: The Essential Guide to Germany’s Romantic Road

With its long history dating back to the middle ages to its modern achievements being a hub of innovation and technology, Munich blends the old and new with ease. The city is home to many international corporations, including BMW and Siemens, and is home to many world-class universities and research institutions.

Do you want easy access to all the top places to visit in Munich? Booking the hop-on-hop-off-bus lets you choose from a 1 or 2 day ticket to see the top attractions in Munich. The bus stops at attractions in the city center, Old Town, English Garden, and outside including Nymphenburg Palace and Olympic Park.

1. Marvel at Marienplatz

One of the first places you must visit in Munich is Marienplatz. It’s the heart of the city and the meeting point for most tours. Marienplatz got its name from the Marian column that was erected to celebrate the withdrawal of Swedish troops after the 30 Years’ War. You can see the golden statue of Mary at the top of the altar. It also houses the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) and the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus).

This is the place to be in the evening in search of shopping and cafes, but we suggest visiting in the morning when the crowds are at their least.

The best way get acquainted with a city is to take a walking tour, this highly rated Munich city walking tour starts in Marianplaz where you’ll see the old and new town halls before walking to see the city center highlights such as Frauenkirche and the Munich Residenz. You’ll then make your way to see some of Munich’s famous beer halls and the English Garden. You can book your tour in advance with easy cancellation (full refund) within 24 hours of activity.

2. Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall)

Neues Rathaus is a stand out of the square with its imposing Neo-Gothic facade standing front and center. Completed in 1905, it replaced the old city hall as the headquarters for local government when Munich’s population boomed during the final decades of the 1800s. Visitors can go inside to climb to the top of the observation tower for a panoramic view of the city.

The New Town Hall features a clock tower that stands at 85 meters tall. It serves as the seat of the Munich city council and the mayor’s office, and it houses various administrative offices. The building also includes a large ceremonial hall that is often used for public events and concerts.

This Old Town Guided Walking Tour takes you to the top attractions in Munich’s city center. You’ll see Neue Rathaus, Marienplatz and Frauenkirche plus, you walk along Maximilianstraße to the Residenz and you’ll end up at Viktualienmarkt to enjoy a coffee or wine with the new friends that you made.

3. The Glockenspiel

One of the most notable features of the New Town Hall is its Glockenspiel, which is a mechanical clock that plays music and features moving figures. The Glockenspiel chimes twice daily at 11 am and at 12 pm, and from March to October additionally at 5 pm. Every day at 9 pm the night watchman blows his horn while the angel blesses the Münchner Kindl.

Located in the tower of Neues Rathaus, the Glockenspiel is a set of 43 bells and 32 figures. The figurines tell stories from Munich’s history including the wedding of Duke Wilhelm V and the dance of the barrel makers who helped keep spirits alive during the plague.

While the New City Hall may be the largest building in Marienplatz, the most famous attraction in Marienplatz (and perhaps all of Munich) is certainly the Glockenspiel.

4. Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall, or Altes Rathaus can also be found in the area and is worth checking out. Dating back to 1310 and is considered one of the most important landmarks in the city. It has undergone many renovations over the centuries landing at its current neo-gothic style in 1864.

Unique features of the building include the pass-throughs on the ground floor that were created in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to allow for traffic.

It was originally used as a meeting place for the city council and served as the center of political power in Munich for many years until 1874.

5. Christmas Markets

If you travel to Munich in December, you’ll experience the Christmas Markets of Marienplatz. It’s difficult to top the Christmas markets of Germany and Munich has some of the best. Marienplatz is the largest and most famous market to visit in Munich but there are Christmas markets throughout the city.

Others include Tollwood Winter Festival in the Theresienwiese area of Munich, Christmas Market at the Munich Residenz, the Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower and the Schwabing Christmas Market.

These markets are filled with vendors selling everything from mulled wine, to hand made toys, Bavarian gifts and crafts and Bavarian food and drink. Read: Christmas Markets and European River Cruise Tips

6. English Garden – Englischer Garten

It is easy to get out to nature in Munich. Just on the edge of town is the English Garden (Englischer Garten) which is the largest garden in continental Europe. You can easily spend a day relaxing in the sun and taking in the scene. It was modeled after an English Garden to perfection.

Everything is handmade to create a sense of calm with manmade ponds, rivers, waterfalls, and hand-planted trees to recreate the royal English gardens. You can do everything from cycling the paved paths to playing football, and slacklining, and you can even sunbathe in the nude. Yes, Englischer Garten is a clothing-optional park.

7. Watch River Surfing on the Eisbach River

One of the coolest things to do in Munich is to make your way to the Eisbach River near the English Garden to watch river surfers. River surfing is very popular in Munich but be warned, do not attempt it if you don’t have experience. During the day you’ll see expert surfers riding the waves in downtown Munich.

The surfers have been doing this since 1972, but it only became legal in 2010 after Munich passed the Common Sense Law. The Ice River was formed by diverting the main river to clean up all rivers in the park.

Willy Wonka

If you are a movie buff then you will want to check out some movie locations in Munich. The original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was filmed in Munich and there are several locations to visit in Munich where the famous movie was filmed. throughout the city where you can see film locations.

We stopped at several locations including the gates where Charlie is peering into the factory imagining the amazing thigns going on inside at München Gaswerk. Check out Reelstreets for locations and you can do your own self guided tour.

8. Hop on a Bike with Radius Tours

If you want to enjoy many of the best places to visit in Munich is a short time, a bicycle tour is the way to go. We took a cycling tour with Radius Tours and saw all of the highlights in a short half day trip. (ask for Tim!) Cycling is an excellent way to see the city of Munich as this city is very bike friendly.

It is easy to get around, the city center has a small downtown core and you can see a lot in a short amount. You can book your tour with them here.

Munich has great cycling trails, and bike paths so don’t have to worry about traffic. You can rent bikes for about $30 USD to take a self-guided tour or book a guided tour with Radius Tour. We really loved the insight and information we got from our guided tour.

9. Royal Residenz

The Royal Residenz is one of Europe’s great residences and one of the largest museums in Bavaria. The Munich Residenz is a massive palace that houses 10 inner plazas filled with history.

The Residenz served as the seat of government and royal residence from 1508 to 1918. Spanning the centuries, this magnificent palace showcases rooms filled with art and furniture from the Renaissance through Baroque, and Neoclassicism.

One of the coolest things to do in Munich is to book a concert at Munich Residenz. Every Thursday and Saturday, members of the Munich Philharmonic play at the Munich Residenz. This is an iconic location where in the Hofkapelle where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once played. Get your tickets in advance here.

10. shop on Maximillianstrasse

While exploring the Royal Residenz, make sure to take a stroll along the most expensive street in all of Germany. Maximillianstrasse has all of the high-end shopping, luxury boutiques, galleries, and designers. You’ll find Gucci, Chanel, Fendi..all the usual expensive brands.

It is here that you’ll also find the historic Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München. If you are looking for a luxury stay in Munich, this is the place!

11. Müller’sches Volksbad (Müllersches Public Baths)

If river surfing is a bit much but you still want to get wet, check out the Müller’sches Volksbad swimming pool. The Art Nouveau design is worth seeing alone but this public swimming pool also has a sauna, steam baths, and massage. It’s a great way to relax those travel-weary muscles in Munich’s oldest public pool which dates back to 1901.

12. Odeonsplatz

Another square that you must see in Munich is Odeonsplatz. King Ludwig I modeled the square after the squares of Italy. The Roman-inspired neoclassical buildings make you feel as if you are in a little slice of Rome.

In the square, you’ll see Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshalls’ Hall), a monument dedicated to the Bavarian army by Ludwig I Residence on one side, and Theatinerkirche (Theatine Church) dedicated to the birth of Prince Max Emanuel in 1662.

13. Memorial Alley

When visiting Odeonsplatz, be sure to talk a walk around the corner in search of the Golden cobblestones. This unassuming monument pays tribute to those who defied the Third Reich. This alley is located in front of what was at the time the headquarters of the Third Reich and people were required to give the Nazi salute when walking by.

People avoided walking in front of the building by taking a shortcut through this alleyway and when the Reich caught on to what was happening, they killed those who dared to defy Hitler. This memorial pays tribute to those who paid the ultimate price.

14. Documentation Centre

It is not the most uplifting of things to do in Munich, but we feel that it is important. The Documentation Centre is a museum and memorial of remembrance that documents and addresses the crimes of the Nazi dictatorship.

We must learn from the past and the people of Munich and Germany do not shy away from the past and instead learn from it. The Centre sits on the Former nazi headquarters that were either demolished or left empty.

15. Hoffbrauhaus

One of Munich’s top draws is definitely its beer halls and Hofbraeuhaus Beer Hall is its most famous. It may be touristy and it may be busy, but if you have one beer in Munich, you must go to Hofbraeuhaus.

Hofbraeuhaus is one of the most famous taverns in the world, and no trip to Munich would be complete without going inside to feel its energy and fun! Enjoy Bavarian entertainment, pretzels, and a massive pint of Bavarian beer.

This Munich Beer and Food Tour takes you to Hofbraeuhaus Beer Hall and other Bavarian Beer halls to immerse in beer culture and Bavarian bar snacks. The tour also includes Alte Hackerhaus”, where we enjoy our bavarian traditional dinner. Beer and Oktoberfest Museum Experience Munich’s nightlife with a local guide. Book it here, easy refund within 24 hours of experience.

The standard-size beer is served in a 1-liter mug! This 500-year-old tavern was founded in 1589 by Wilhelm V, the Duke of Bavaria, and sits in the heart of Munich.

It has been a gathering place for centuries and it feels as if you have stepped back in time to a wild Bavarian party. Servers are dressed in traditional Bavarian Lederhosen, and Bavarian bands are playing as crowds sit in lines along the wooden tables.

16. Oktoberfest

Speaking of beer, Munich is famed for its beer celebrations. If you are lucky enough to visit in September, you can take part in Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival. Oktoberfest was started by King Ludwik I in 1810. He was the first king of Bavaria and as a gift to his wife, he invited the people of Bavaria to come and celebrate.

They had horse races, dancing, performances, and celebrations. Oh, and beer. Lots of beer. The tradition continued and Oktoberfest was born. It has grown into an 18-day festival attracting 6 million visitors a year.

17. Oktoberfest Museum

If you want to learn more about Oktoberfest (and not visiting during the festival) you can check out the Oktoberfest Museum located in Munich’s oldest townhouse at #2 Sterneckerstrasse.

The museum features exhibits and displays that highlight the history of Oktoberfest, including its origins, traditions, and evolution over the years. Visitors can learn about the history of beer-making in Bavaria, as well as the unique culture and customs that have developed around the festival.

The museum also features an extensive collection of memorabilia and artifacts related to Oktoberfest, including old beer steins, posters, and other historical objects. Visitors can see how the festival has changed over the years, from its early days as a small local celebration to the massive international event it is today.

18. Beer Gardens

If you are not in Munich during Oktoberfest, never fear, beer is still a large part of the culture. Two of the world’s largest beer gardens are located in Munich. The beer garden was born in Munich out of necessity. Beer was originally brewed underground to keep the casks warm.

White gravel was then placed above the tunnels to reflect the sun and Chesnut trees were planted to create shade. Their low root system was suitable to not destroy the underground storage as the roots wouldn’t penetrate too deeply. Back in the day, the only things served were beer, pretzels, and radishes. Today, you can bring your own food as long as you purchase a beer.

19. Chinese Tower (Chinesischen Turm)

Chinesischen Turm (The Chinese Tower) is the second-largest beer garden located in the English Gardens. This is a great place to stop for a pint as you sit under the shade of its chestnut trees. Modeled after a Chinese pagoda, this is a really cool place to go for a pint.

If you are wondering what the largest beer garden in the world is, it is Hirschgarten also located in Munich. Hirschgarten is the largest beer garden in Munich with 8000+ seats and it is popular with the locals.

20. Frauenkirch

You can’t miss seeing Frauenkirche – the Cathedral Church of Our Lady. Its high spires tower over Munich’s Old Town. These towers actually survived regular bombings of WWII and still stand today thanks to the fact that no highrises can be built around it. Visitors can climb up to the top of the towers for a bird’s eye view of Munich.

When you do go inside, be sure to keep an eye out for The Devil’s footprint. It was believed that the devil stomped his foot at the entrance after becoming annoyed with yet another building that was made in God’s name.

21. Viktualienmarkt

Even Munich’s farmers market has a beer garden. Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s main food market with more than 100 vendors selling fruit and vegetables, a butchers’ hall, a fish hall, and flower shops. When the market grew too big in Marienplatz, King Maximilian I moved the market in 1807. It has expanded and grown over the centuries and is Munich’s favorite shopping and gathering place.

22. Asam Church

While Frauenkirch may be the largest and most imposing church in Munich, Asam Church is the most interesting church to visit in Munich. The Rococo Asam Church was designed by the famous Asam Brothers in 1746. They were a painter and a sculptor who modeled it in the Baroque style.

Its ornate facade attracts visitors, but once inside is when you truly see the work of art. Its ornate gold finishings and paintings make it one of the must-see things in Munich.

23. St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church is the oldest church in Munich housing the oldest bells in Munich in its clocktowers. Located in the heart of the city’s historic district, St. Peter’s Church dates back to the 12th century.

The church has a distinct Baroque style and features beautiful frescoes, ornate altars, and intricate stucco work. Inside the church, visitors can see the ornate high altar, which dates back to the 18th century and features a stunning sculpture of St. Peter.

Take a walk along its outside to see the old graves on the walls and make sure to walk up to the top of its 56-meter-high viewing platform for views of Marienplatz (Munich’s Central Square) and City Hall (New Rathaus) plus Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) and panoramic vistas of Old Munich.

The tower of St. Peter’s Church is accessible via a narrow spiral staircase and is definitely worth the climb for the panoramic views. St. Peter’s Church has one of the best views of Munich and offers that iconic scene that is you know from so many guide books.

St. Peter’s Church is still an active place of worship and holds daily services for the local community. Visitors are welcome to attend these services or to simply explore the church and its beautiful architecture and artwork. The church also offers guided tours, which provide visitors with more information about its history and significance.

• Opening Hours: 7.30 AM – 7.00 PM

24. Bayerische Staatsoper (Bavarian State Opera)

The Bayerische Staatsoper (Bavarian State Opera) is one of the world’s leading opera companies and is located in Munich, Germany. The company was founded in 1653 and is located in the National Theatre.

If you are looking for things to do in Munich at night, the company performs a wide range of operas from the classic repertoire, as well as contemporary works and new productions. The Bayerische Staatsoper also hosts ballet performances and concerts throughout the year.

Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich offers guided tours of its facilities, including the National Theatre, where the opera company is based. The tours provide visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the theater, including the stage, the orchestra pit, the costume and makeup rooms, and other areas not normally accessible to the public. The tours are available in several languages and are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer questions and provide insight into the world of opera.

25. Olympic Park

Located outside of town, Olympic Park is not to be missed when visiting Munich. Munich was host to the 1972 Olympics and this beautiful park is an amazing way to spend the afternoon. There are parks, waterways, lakes, and the Olympic stadium.

We drove out to Olympic Park, but the hop on hop off bus goes here and you can take the The U-Bahn (subway) line U3 runs directly to the Olympic Park, with stops at Olympiazentrum and Olympiapark.

There are many things to do in Olympic Park and here are a few of our choices.

26. Olympia Tower

A highlight for us was going up Olympia Tower. It has one of the most beautiful views in Munich with a 360-degree vista of Munich and the Alps. It is the highest viewpoint in all of Munich and when you are up there, you’ll not only see views but there is a museum that showcases the acts that have performed at Olympic Stadium over the years, a restaurant.

27. BMW Museum – The BMW Welt

While you are out at Olympic Park be sure to stop in at the BMW Museum. Located at the BMW factory and headquarters, the BMW Welt is not only a museum, it is an architectural wonder. There are 125 makes and models of BMW automobiles and motorcycles spanning the massive complex.

28. Michael Jackon’s Memorial

If you are looking for something quirky to see in Munich, check out the Michael Jackson Memorial. Michael Jackson frequented Munich and in front of his favorite hotel the five-star hotel Bayerischer Hof.

There is a makeshift memorial to Jackson on the Orlando de Lace monument. His statue has been taken over by Michael Jackson memorabilia left by adoring fans. Address: Promenadepl. 2-6, 80333 München

29. Museums in Munich

One could spend weeks exploring all of Munich’s museums and art galleries. In fact, there are 126 museums in Munich. There are art museums, history museums, modern museums, and science. Munich museums that are not to be missed are Alte Pinakothek (Old Picture Gallery), the Neue Pinakothek (New Picture Gallery), The Pinakothek der Moderne (Modern Art Museum), the Museum Brandhorst and the Sammlung Schack.

30. Oldest Museum in Munich

The Glyptothek is the oldest museum in Munich and is worth checking out. We mentioned King Ludwig’s love for Italy above and this museum houses his collection of classical Greek and Roman sculptures. It dates back to 1830.

31. Bavarian National Museum

No trip to Munich would be complete without a visit to the Bavarian National Museum. Founded by King Maximilian II in 1855 it is one of the most important museums in Bavaria showcasing its cultural history and art and artifacts dating back to prehistoric times.

32. Deutsches Museum

Choosing museums to see in Munich can be overwhelming with so many of them, but the Deutsches Museum is a cool place to visit in Museum to take a walk through time. This Museum of technology is the world’s largest museum of science and technology taking you from early innovations to the high-tech world of today. One cool thing to see in Deutsches Museum is a replica of the Red Baron’s plane from WWI.

33. Alte Pinakothek (Old Picture Gallery)

The Alte Pinakothek is one of the oldest and most important art galleries in the world. The museum houses a vast collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the end of the Rococo period, with a focus on German, Flemish, Dutch, Italian, and Spanish artists.

It was founded in 1836 by King Ludwig I of Bavaria, who was a great lover and patron of the arts. The museum’s collection includes masterpieces by some of the greatest artists in history, such as Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, Peter Paul Rubens, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Some of the most famous paintings in the collection include Dürer’s “Four Apostles,” Rubens’ “The Last Judgment,” and Caravaggio’s “The Crowning with Thorns.”

34. Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

Nymphenburg Palace is a beautiful sprawling palace that was used as the main summer residence for the former rulers of Bavaria of the House of Wittelsbach. Places of note to see are The Hall of Mirrors, Grand Hall, Carriage House, and the Royal Hunting Lodge.

Schloss Nymphenburg is located 30 minutes outside the city center and you can get there by tram. Or Nymphenburg Palaces is a stop on the hop on hop off bus that makes it easy to get around the city to see the top places to visit in Munich at your own pace. You can then book a guided tour to see inside Nymphenburg Palace complex as you learn about the history of the cancel.

Best Day Trips from Munich

When visiting Munich, you must not forget to explore Bavaria. This is one of the best places in Germany for outdoor adventures, beautiful fairytale castles, and fascinating history. While you need weeks to really explore it, some of the best day trips from Munich are just a short drive away.

35. Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is the epitome of the fairytale castles one comes to expect from Europe. In fact, Walt Disney modeled Cinderella’s castle after Neuschwanstein Castle. Located just 90 minutes from Munich, this is the castle is not to be missed.

This full day tour from Munich takes you from Munich to see two of Bavaria’s most famous castles, Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. You’ll also enjoy lunch in the town of Hohenschwangau and travel to Oberammergau.

36. Linderhof Palace

Set within the rolling Bavarian countryside Linderhof Palace is one of three separate country palaces commissioned by King Ludwig II. The palace contains sculptures and statues, a fountain that reaches 25 meters high from pressure alone and gardens. This is a beautiful palace modeled after the Palace of Versailles in France.

This full day tour is recommended and takes Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. two of Bavaria’s most famous castles, Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. You’ll also enjoy lunch in the town of Hohenschwangau and travel to Oberammergau.

37. Dachau Memorial Site

The Dachau Concentration Camp is a somber memorial to those who died during the Nazi Regime. It was the first concentration camp built by Nazi Germany and serves as a reminder of the atrocities that were committed by the regime. This is a historic site that is to be respected when visiting to honor those who suffered greatly during World War II.

You can book a guided tour to visit the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, a place of memory and of education. The guides are trained to convey often difficult and disturbing material to you with sensitivity, with dignity, with respect for the victims,

38. Salzburg

Want to pop into Austria? Make sure to visit the city of Salzburg if you have the time. We always love adding a country to our list when traveling and this is an easy day trip from Munich. Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and is significantly known for its Baroque architecture. In fact, because of this, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And these are the best things to do in Munich Germany. Munich is one of Germany’s most exciting cities. It took us several visits to Germany before visiting Munich and we wish we did it sooner. It has easily turned shot to the top of our list of the best cities in Europe to visit in your lifetime.

Getting Around Munich

It is easy to get around Munich with public transport. Their public transit system goes everywhere, really economical. You can easily interchange from one mode of transportation to another with a valid ticket. Note: make sure to validate your ticket before getting on the train

• The U-Bahn (underground railway) is fast and efficient avoiding traffic and congestion.
• Straßenbahn (tram) – This is an excellent mode of transportation in Munich with many stops.
• S-Bahn (aboveground railway) – similar to the U-Bahn but it runs above ground.

Walking – Downtown Munich is a very walkable city and you can see a lot of the top attractions in Munich by foot.

Cycling – Cycling is definitely our favourite way to get around Munich when the weather is nice. With 1,200 kilometers of cycling trails, Munich is definitely a bike-friendly city.

For exploring Bavaria, we rented a car and this really was the best way to get around this beautiful section of Germany. See CarRentals.com for price comparisons

Where to Stay in Munich

We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn at Munich City West. It is close to the metro and is just two stops from the main square in the city center. But there are many great places to stay in Munich to make the most of your time in the city that are closer to the top Munich attractions.

Altstadt – This is Munich’s historic center and is a great choice for visitors who want to be close to the city’s main attractions, such as Marienplatz, the Viktualienmarkt, and the Hofbräuhaus. Hotels in this area can be a bit more expensive, but the convenience is worth it for many travelers.

The Mandarin Oriental – The Mandarin Oriental is the premiere luxury hotel in Munich Altstadt. It’s 5-minute walk from Marienplatz Square and near Maximilianstraße. Convenient location with 5 star luxury.

Maxvorstadt – This trendy neighborhood is home to many of Munich’s best museums, galleries, and universities. It’s a great choice for culture vultures who want to be close to the action and experience the city’s vibrant art scene.

Rocco Fort the Charles Hotel – This luxury hotel is 5-star luxury with an indoor pool, spa and sauna. It’s located near the Old Botanical Garden.

Schwabing – This bohemian neighborhood is known for its laid-back vibe, colorful street art, and charming cafes and bars. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to experience Munich’s more offbeat side.

Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor – We love an Andaz Hotel and this 5-star hotel is located between the Olympic Stadium and the English Garden making it the perfect location for outdoor lovers. It features a rooftop bar, spa and pool.

Haidhausen – This historic neighborhood is located just across the river from the Altstadt and is known for its picturesque streets and charming architecture. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to experience Munich’s quieter side while still being close to the city center.

MOMA1890 – Beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of the artist district Haidhausen.

And there you have it, the best places to visit in Germany. From exploring the city’s famous landmarks like the Marienplatz and Frauenkirche to enjoying a cold beer at one of its traditional Bavarian beer gardens, there are endless opportunities to explore and discover in Munich. With so many things to do in Munich, the city is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Germany.

Located on the West Coast of the United States, Portland is the largest city in Oregon, and yet a haven for lovers of nature, quirky characters, charming neighborhoods, and small city life. Among the food trucks, craft beer, and historic buildings in downtown Portland, the locals thrive to keep Portland weird. In the city center are an abundance of green spaces, rose gardens, hipster cafes, street art, and amazing ice cream.

Best Things to Do in Portland Oregon

This comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Portland will help you explore the city’s weird side and see why it’s one of the most interesting places in the US. Interested in exploring Oregon? Check out our guide to the best things to do in the Beaver State.

1. Take a Photo of the Keep Portland Weird Sign

It’s a quick and easy stop, but one of the first things to do in Portland is to stop at the Keep Portland Weird sign for the obligatory photo. Located on the side of a building at 220 NW 8th Ave, this is one of the top tourist attractions in Portland.

The Keep Portland Weird sign has become a symbol of Portland’s eccentricity and independent spirit representing Portland’s unique culture and character. Think of a bird with a coffee cup, a unicyclist, or a Voodoo Doughnut. It was created by artist Dan Stiles and was first installed in 2004.

What’s really funny is that I had always thought of Austin’s Keep it Weird slogan, but I guess there are two places in the United States that want to stand out as different and I support that. Both Austin and Portland are very different from many places in the USA making both cities two of our favorites in the country.

2. Sample Sweets at Voodoo Doughnut

The debate rages on about whether Blue Star Donuts are better than Voodoo Doughnut and no time in Portland would be complete without sampling at least one. Blue Star may be a local favorite, but the wild and innovative nature of Voodoo Doughnut makes it a memorable and must-do experience.

Voodoo loves to push the boundaries when it comes to creative donut-making. Where else can you find Capt’n Crunch toppings? So truth be told, they may not be for everyone, but there is only one way to find out.

The line is always out the door but moves quickly, so straddle up for a sweet treat adventure! The best way to get into the doughnut culture of Portland is to take an underground doughnut tour. You’ll visit 4 of Portland’s donut institutions including a skip the line ticket to Voodoo Donuts. Other donut stops include Sesame Donuts, Blue Star Donuts and more: Details here.

3. Take a Portland City Walking tour

A great way to start in any city is to take a walking tour. This walking tour takes you through the soul of the city to learn about its most famous architecture. Starting in the city’s Cultural District, you’ll walk to see the many museums and plazas including including the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Historical Society. Book it here, easy cancellation within 24 hours of departure.

Discover some of Portland’s most influential architecture, from cast iron-fronted structures to the grandly disastrous post-modern Portland Building, on this walking tour. Discuss the modern rise of radical activists, and how it is connected to the city’s history going back more than a century. Meet Portlandia, visit the Pioneer Courthouse Square, and trace Portland’s history as you walk through parks and plazas that were sites of headline-making gatherings.

4. Sample some Food Cart Pods

With more than 600 food carts located throughout the city Portland is a Mecca for food cart culture. Many of these carts are clustered together in what are known as “food cart pods.” These pods are essentially outdoor food courts where multiple food carts are gathered in a single location, often with shared seating areas and other amenities.

This Portland Food Carts and Patio Tour takes you to one of Portland’s first food cart pods to enjoy food and rinks at up to 7 different food carts. Enjoy Portlands Central Eastside neighborhood. What we love about this tour is that you get to try some Poutine, (Our Canadian staple in Portland!) But, you’ll also go around the world to try Lebanese food and Belgian waffles. The tour ends at a patio to enjoy Portland craft beer and to chat with the new friends you made along the way. .

One of the most popular food cart pods in Portland is the 5th Avenue Food Cart Pod which is home to around 30 food carts serving a wide variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Thai, Vietnamese, and Korean. There are picnic tables and covered seating areas making it a great spot to grab a snack while you continue with your Portland sightseeing. More details here.

5. Browse For books at the World’s Largest Independent Bookstore

In a city that embraces the old with vigor and substance, it’s no surprise that Portland is home to the biggest new and used bookstore on earth. Powell’s City of Books is a local institution. It’s an independent bookstore that covers an entire city block of Portland’s northern downtown.

Even if you have no plans of picking up a novel to enjoy some light reading, you must go into Powell’s City of Books for a look around. Exploring the store is enough of an adventure in itself. Check-in and grab yourself a map so you don’t get lost roaming the aisles containing over four million books including a rare book room.

6. Portland City Cruise

We love getting on the water and when visiting Portland, a great way to take in the skyline is to get on the water. Be it kayaking or booking a Portland dinner cruise, it’s a great way to see the Steel Bridge and other Portland landmarks along the Willamette River. On a dinner cruise, you’ll enjoy a delicious three-course dinner with entertainment and narration. See the city lights as the sun goes down while dining on lo ally sourced Northwest cuisine.

Try out the best way to dine in Portland on the Willamette River enhanced by dazzling city sights and lights. Enjoy Northwest cuisine (locally sourced and prepared fresh on board), live piano music, and narration of the sights on the outer decks. More details on a dinner cruise here.

7. Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Placed along the Willamette River, which divides Portland, the Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a beautiful spot to take in the river. Throughout the day you will find locals walking and jogging the Waterfront Park Trail, taking in the views of the city, park, river and port.

Come here to not only enjoy some peace but also to visit the Oregon Maritime Museum, the Salmon Street Springs or the smallest park in the world, Mill Ends Park. You heard me right, as listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, Mill Ends Park is the smallest park in the world.

If you have arrived in time for sunset, continue on to Broadway Bridge for views of the colorful sky. Later, walk across the bridge for a night among the brewpubs in southeast Portland.

8. See the Cherry Blossoms in Bloom

One of the most popular times of the year to visit the park is during the Cherry Blossom season where the 100 Akebono cherry trees are in full bloom in the Spring season.

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is also home to many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Portland Rose Festival, Oregon Brewers Festival, and the Waterfront Blues Festival. The park has a large amphitheater that can accommodate up to 10,000 people and is used for concerts and other performances.

About Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Tom McCall Waterfront Park is named after Tom McCall, a former governor of Oregon who played a key role in protecting the state’s environment.

The park covers an area of about 36 acres and offers beautiful views of the river and the city skyline. It features paved paths for walking, jogging, and biking, as well as open grassy areas for picnics and recreation. There are also several public art installations, including the Salmon Street Springs Fountain, which is a popular spot for cooling off on hot summer days.

Other things to see at the park are the Japanese American Historical Plaza, the Police Memorial, and the Founder’s Stone. The Portland Farmer’s Market is held within the park every weekend from March to Christmas 

9. Shop at the Portland Market

One of the best things to do in Portland on the weekend is to visit the Portland Saturday Market. Held every weekend from March until Christmas Eve, you will discover over 150 arts, crafts, and food vendors. They help make the market the largest fair of its kind in the United States.

Wake up early and partake in some fresh food shopping, or return in the afternoon to try some unique Portland eats under the Burnside Bridge. Cuisines hail from all around the world, including Thai, Nepalese, Greek and even some homegrown fresh catch and desserts.

10. Visit the Portland Art Museum

If you enjoy your art, then one of the top things to do in Portland is to explore the Portland Art Museum. Near the Portland State University campus, the art museum features work from across the globe and also focuses on Pacific Northwest Native American Art.

You could spend a full day wandering the halls and taking in several masterpieces, stunning photography and iconic prints. However, even with just an hour or two, you can still make the most of the experience.

11. Oregon Museum of Science

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) was founded in 1944 and is one of the oldest science museums in the United States. If you are looking for things to do in Portland on a rainy day, this is the place

The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive displays that explore various scientific fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and technology. Some of the most popular exhibits at OMSI include the Earth Science Hall, where visitors can explore a replica of a Pacific Northwest cave, and the Turbine Hall, which features large-scale demonstrations of water and electricity.

Portland at Night OMSI After Dark

For one of the coolest things to do in Portland at night, check out OMSI After Dark that takes place on the last Wednesday of each month. This is an adults only event (21+) where alcohol is served while visitors peruse local vendors and science exhibits.

OMSI also has a planetarium, where visitors can experience a variety of shows about astronomy and space science, as well as a theater that shows educational films and documentaries.

12. See the Sprawling Forest Park Portland

As the city’s biggest park and one of the best things to do in Portland, Forest Park must find its way onto your itinerary. Even in what is a growing city, the park is an excellent place to enjoy the fresh air and feel a world away from the bustle of downtown.

The 5100-acre park has 70 miles or trails throughout the forest and you’ll will be inundated with amazing views, whether that be Mt Hood or the Willamette River. The endless miles of trails will take you to iconic spots like the Pittock Mansion, or better yet, rent a bike and cycle some of its 29 miles that are open to cycling.

You can also book this Portland Bike Tour to explore the Willamette River, sample donuts, learn about the neighborhoods, and see the city from a different perspective.

13. Hike to the Witch’s Castle

While you are in the park, visit one of the most curious places in Oregon. Witch’s Castle is where ghosts roam under the moonlight.

Is also known as the Stone House or the Stone Cabin and was originally built as a public restroom in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), but it fell into disrepair and was abandoned in the 1960s. Over time, the abandoned Stone House became a local legend and was rumored to be haunted, with some saying that it was the site of witchcraft and Satanic rituals. Hence the name “Witch’s Castle.”

Today, it is a popular hiking destination, and visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and enjoy the scenic views of Forest Park.

The Stone House is located on the Wildwood Trail, which is a 30-mile trail that runs through Forest Park. The trailhead for the Witch’s Castle is located at the end of NW 29th Avenue, and it is accessible by foot or bike.

While the castle itself does not have any particular historical significance beyond its role as a WPA restroom, its eerie atmosphere and rumors of paranormal activity have made it a popular destination for those interested in the supernatural.

14. Tour the Pittock Mansion

One of the most prominent Portland attractions is the Pittock Mansion. The dramatic mansion was built in 1914 in the French renaissance-style. History buffs will love touring this estate where the Pittock family, who called it home, were major players in developing Portland, Oregon, into the city it is today.

Consisting of over 40 rooms and 16,000 square feet, the Pittock Mansion is well worth exploring on a guided tour. However, its location within Forest Park makes it the perfect spot to relax or have a picnic on your adventures through the woods.

You can take a tour inside to see the period furniture or you can enjoy the views of the city from the outside which offers one of the best city views of Portland.

15. Smell the Roses at International Rose Test Garden

Known as the City of Roses, Portland is home to the stunning and public Rose Test Garden. Found within Washington Park, the International Rose Test Garden boasts 500 varieties of roses sources from around the globe. The roses are sent here to test the viability and the plant’s characteristics.

Although open year-round, the garden is best seen between the months of May and September. During that time period, more than 10,000 rose bushes bloom in unison, backed by the incredible views of Mt Hood. After the garden, wander over to the iconic ice cream shop Salt & Straw for some distinctive ice cream flavors.

This half day Portland tour takes you on a guided city tour in a small group You’ll drive through the hills for city views and wander the center of Portland to the Pittock Mansion which offers the best view of Portland. It includes a stop at the International Rose Test Garden where you are free to enjoy 20 minutes on your own. Book your tour here

16. Visit During The Rose Festival

Speaking of roses, the Rose City hosts The Portland Rose Festival annually from late May and early June. The festival has been held since 1907 and is one of the city’s most popular and well-known events.

The festival features a variety of events and activities, including parades, live music and entertainment, food and drink vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks displays. The festival also includes a variety of competitions, including a dragon boat race, a rose show, and even a sandcastle-building contest.

One of the highlights of the Rose Festival is the Grand Floral Parade, which is held on the second Saturday of the festival. The parade features floats decorated with flowers and roses, marching bands, and other performers. The parade attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year and is one of the largest parades in the Pacific Northwest.

Another popular event during the Rose Festival is the CityFair, which is held at Waterfront Park and features carnival rides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment. The CityFair is open daily throughout the festival and is a great place to bring the whole family.

17. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Staying with our in bloom theme, The Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden is a botanical garden that covers an area of 9.5 acres and features over 2,500 rhododendrons, azaleas, and other plants.

The garden was originally created in the 1950s as a display garden for the Portland Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society. Over the years, the garden has expanded to include a variety of other plants and features, including a picturesque lake, waterfalls, and walking paths.

The garden is especially popular in the spring when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom, creating a colorful display of flowers.

18. Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden

Considered one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is not to be missed. We have visited a lot of Japanese and Chinese Gardens in our day and they are a beautiful place to find your Zen.It has the usual elements of an Asian garden with water features, rocks, gardens, and buildings blending all of the elements beautifully together.

When exploring Washington Park in southwest Portland, stopping by the Portland Japanese Garden is a must. Although you will find plenty of green space to explore when in Portland, the garden is a unique attraction that stands out.

Seen as one of the best Japanese Gardens in the United States, you can easily find a moment of Zen among the stunning aesthetics from wooden bridges over creeks to traditional rock gardens. Try the matcha tea as you sit in the peaceful open spaces of the Umami Cafe catching glimpses of the towering Mount Hood.

19. Old Town Chinatown

One of the best places to start your adventures in Portland is within that city’s Old Town Chinatown. As one of the most historic neighborhoods in Portland, Old Town harbors the secrets of the city’s early days, including the infamous Shanghai Tunnels.

Also known as the Old Portland Underground, these tunnels were used to connect the suppliers at the port directly to the businesses via, you guessed it, tunnels. That was until shady happenings continued to occur within the confines of the tunnels. Organized crime would not just take the produce but kidnap the port’s sailors, also known as Shanghaiing.

Over time, the historical accuracies have blurred, but a tour of the tunnels is one of the best things to do in Portland. Take this tour of Portland’s Shanghai Tunnels. This unique tour takes you through the underground passages of Portland’s Chinatown followed by 3 tasters and 1 pint of Portland craft beer.

20. hoyt arboretum

Portland has plenty of outdoor spaces and the Hoyt Arboretum is a 190-acre public arboretum that was founded in 1928. It is now home to over 6,000 trees and shrubs from around the world, making it one of the most diverse tree collections in the Pacific Northwest.

The Hoyt Arboretum features 12 miles of hiking trails and paved paths for walking, jogging, and biking. The trails wind through different sections of the arboretum, each with its own collection of trees and plants. Some of the collections include the Magnolia Collection, the Maple Collection, the Oak Collection, and the Conifer Collection.

21. Ride the Portland Aerial Tram

The Portland Aerial Tram, also known as the Portland Tram or OHSU Tram, is a gondola lift system that connects the South Waterfront district to the main campus of Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) on Marquam Hill. The tram opened to the public in January 2007 and has since become an iconic feature of the Portland skyline.

The tram consists of two cabins that can carry up to 79 passengers each, traveling a distance of 3,300 feet (about 1 kilometer) and an elevation gain of 500 feet (about 152 meters). The ride takes about 3-4 minutes one way, and offers stunning views of the city and the Willamette River.

Tickets can be purchased for the Portland Aerial Tram at the lower terminal station or online. The cost of a one-way ticket is $5.10 for adults and $2.50 for seniors and children. The tram runs daily, with frequent departures throughout the day.

22. Get Outdoors at Washington Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Portland if you don’t have a car, then wonder no more. Washington Park is a sprawling urban oasis that is easily accessed with the help of Portland’s light rail.

Just 20 minutes from downtown, those visiting Portland will quickly fall in love with this open space. Bring your walking shoes, as there are 15 miles of trails to stroll while you will also have the chance to visit the Oregon Zoo and the International Rose Test Garden.

Oregon Zoo

Combining your favorite exhibits with conservation and fun education, the Oregon Zoo is one of top things to do in Portland with kids. The zoo comprises five main sections featuring different continents and unique ecosystems. So your crew can circle the globe while getting an unobstructed view of the world’s most iconic animals.

When exploring the zoo, you won’t go hungry with multiple restaurants and coffee shops to choose from. Head to Growlers for pizza or order your lunch online and pick it up at AfriCafe, so your day doesn’t miss a beat. (Another great option to see wildlife is at the Portland Audubon Society.)

23. Start Your Day at Pioneer Courthouse Square

If downtown Portland had a gathering place, this would be it. The square is an urban park within the heart of the city, a spot where post-work festivities begin.

Beyond being a meeting point, the beautiful square is vibrant throughout the year. Concerts and festivals occur almost weekly, with Tuesdays and Thursdays bringing free lunchtime concerts to locals.

However, the atmosphere in ‘Portland’s living room’ reaches its peak during the winter festival season. Festivals include Winter Lights and the Holiday Ale Festival, a celebration of the state’s best craft beers.

24. Walk Along Mississippi Avenue

If the question is what to do in Portland at night, then the answer is to head to Mississippi Avenue. Mississippi is another neighborhood in Portland that has risen to fame based on its social vibe and arts scene. The main drag, Mississippi Avenue, provides the goods with colorful quirky shops, food trucks, and homes that are now trendy restaurants.

The daytime brings plenty of walking adventures as you meander your way down the street. However, at night, this is the place to go to experience Portland’s live music scene. The standout among the bunch is Mississippi Studios.

If you are looking for a place to eat on the go pop into Probst Marketplace and choose a dish from its many food carts.

25. Take a Bike Tour

One of the best ways to get around Portland is by bicycle adn you can rent bikes to take you to all of its top attractions. Rent an e-bike to easily get around the city avoiding the hassle of parking a car, but having the luxury of battery power to make sightseeing easy.

Or you can join a bike tour to get around Portland. This bike tour takes you through Portland’s neighborhoods where you’ll see the alternative side of the city admiring street art. Take time to smell the roses and go for a ride along the river. A bike tour is a great way to experience the city at a leisurely pace.

26. Portland Festivals

Portland is known for its festival scene, with events taking place throughout the year. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may be able to enjoy one of the festivities taking place in the city. Some of the most popular festivals in Portland include:

• Portland Rose Festival – This is a multi-week festival that takes place in May and June every year. It celebrates the city’s rich history and culture with a variety of events, including a grand floral parade, dragon boat races, and fireworks.
• Portland International Film Festival – This festival showcases the best in independent and international cinema, with screenings taking place over two weeks in February.
• Portland Jazz Festival – The Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is a ten-day festival in late February that celebrates jazz music with performances by renowned musicians from around the world.
• Portland Craft Beer Festival – This festival takes place in July and features more than 100 local breweries and over 300 different types of beer.
• Feast Portland – This four-day food festival takes place in September and features some of the best chefs, restaurants, and food artisans from around the Pacific Northwest.
• Holiday Ale Festival – This festival takes place in early December and features over 50 different winter ales, ciders, and meads.

27. Take a Brewery Tour

Portland has plenty of craft breweries and one of the best ways to make new friends and immerse in the beer scene is to take a brewery tour. This East Side Craft Brewery Walking tour takes you through Portland’s inner Eastside neighborhood to enjoy its craft brewery scene. Sample different flavors and learn about Portland’s craft brew origins.

Walk through Portland’s craft brewery scene, the inner Eastside neighborhood, tasting beer samples spanning the gamut in style, flavors, and colors. Learn about the origins and future of craft beer in Rose City and America as a whole

29. Chill Out in the Pearl District

Many cities have amazing examples of rundown districts born again and old neighborhoods with a ‘rags to riches tale’. Portland’s version of this is the Pearl District. Once home to warehouses and disintegrating brick buildings, the Pearl District is one of the best places to eat and drink in Portland.

The once abandoned warehouses have been converted to chic condos with highrises cropping up yet maintaining its industrial feel creating one of the funkiest neighborhoods in Portland.

The Pearl District is home to several fantastic art galleries, cafes for your morning cup, and some of the best dining in the city when the tummy starts to grumble. Fans of craft beer will also delight in the neighborhood’s selection of delicious brewpubs, none more popular than Deschutes Brewery and Public House.

Return in the evening when the laid-back district presents some of Portland’s best nightlife.

28. Alberta Arts District – The Hippest Spot in Town

Northeast Portland once had an infamous reputation, but over the years it has transformed into an artists’ hub and a neighborhood for expression and creativity. From this, the Alberta Arts District was born.

This Eastside Craft Brewery Tour takes you on a walking tour through the Eastside industrial district to explore its distilleries, street art and coffee scene. Learn about Portland’s craft brewing history, and taste its IPAs and Belgian Bear. You will also taste Portland Ciders.

Based around Alberta Street, you will discover a youthful community of art galleries and homegrown boutiques. What will come as a shock to no one is that the district comes with an abundance of murals and is the best spot for street art in Portland. Come with no plan and simply get lost walking the streets, hitting up some great brewpubs, cafes or street vendors along the way.

30. Enjoy Cocktails At A Rooftop Bar

If you don’t make it to the Pittock Mansion for a view of the city, make sure to enjoy a cocktail at one of its rooftop bars. Like many cities, Portland has a number of great rooftop bars, here are a few for you to choose from.

• Departure Rooftop Bar: Located on the 15th floor of the Nines Hotel, Departure offers stunning views of downtown and the surrounding mountains. The bar features an Asian-inspired menu and a variety of signature cocktails.
• Revolution Hall: Situated on the roof of the historic Washington High School building, Revolution Hall offers a spacious outdoor patio with breathtaking views of the city. The bar serves up a variety of local beers and cocktails, and also hosts live music and events.
• Tope: This rooftop bar is located atop the Hoxton Hotel and offers sweeping views of the city skyline. The menu features Mexican-inspired dishes and a variety of creative cocktails.
• Altabira City Tavern: Located in the Lloyd District, Altabira offers a large rooftop patio with stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The bar features a rotating selection of local beers and an extensive menu of American cuisine.
• Century Bar: This rooftop bar is located in the heart of downtown and features a spacious outdoor patio with views of the city skyline. The bar offers a variety of craft cocktails, wine, and beer, as well as a menu of small plates and snacks

Day Tours from Portland

While there is no shortage of things to do and see within the city, the surrounding areas offer endless options for a perfect day trip. From hiking in the Columbia River Gorge to wine tasting in the Willamette Valley, there’s something for everyone within easy driving distance from Portland.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, these day trips will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty and charm. So pack a picnic, hop in the car, and let’s explore some of the best day trips from Portland, Oregon!

31. Columbia River Gorge

Following the immersive Historic Columbia River Highway, venturing to Columbia River Gorge is the perfect choice for those seeking a day trip from Portland. Spanning 80 miles along the mighty Columbia River you will get the full fix of Oregon’s spectacular scenery and soaring canyons.

Although you will have an abundance of epic lookouts along the way, make sure to leave time for the trip to Multnomah Falls. The Insta-famous waterfall is worth braving the crowds for, thanks to the memorable 542ft drop into a cascading pool. You can reach the falls by following the 5-mile Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail, which passes a total of 6 mesmerizing falls.

Book this highly rated Columbia River Gorge Waterfall Tour for an afternoon at the Columbia River Gorge including, Multnomah Falls, the Portland Women’s Forum, the Crown Point Vista House, Latourell Falls, and Shepperd’s Dell.

32. Timberline Lodge

Along with the Columbia River Gorge, a trip to Timberline Lodge is a great way to experience the world around the Portland city limits. 90 minutes from Portland, the Timberline Lodge is the base for many outdoor activities.

On the edge of the monstrous Mount Hood, this is the place to go for year-round skiing and big mountain hiking trails. Better yet, save the energy and ride the gondola up to 7000ft with epic views of the summit.

After the return journey, cozy up in front of the Timberline Lodge’s fireplace and have dinner at what feels like the top of the world.

Want the lowdown on hiking around the Portland area, from the Oregon coast to the Cascade Range? Check out our guide on the best hikes in Oregon.

33. Willamette Valley Wine Tours

Taking a wine tour from Portland to Willamette Valley is a great way to explore the region’s vineyards and wineries, which are known for producing world-class Pinot Noir wines. Willamette Valley is home to over 500 wineries, so it’s a good idea to research which ones you’d like to visit ahead of time or you can book a wine tour to make things easier. Some popular wineries include Domaine Serene, Stoller Family Estate, and Adelsheim Vineyard.

Willamette Valley is a large area, so it’s important to plan your route in advance to ensure that you can visit all of the wineries on your list. There are several wine tour maps available online that can help you plan your route.

Many wineries require reservations for tastings, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot. You can usually book tastings directly through the winery’s website or by calling them.

This half day wine tour takes you to the Willamette Valley for wintery hopping to sample its famous Pintos. Visit three tasting rooms with a stop for lunch along the way on this small group tour.

Where to stay in Portland

There are several worthy areas in Portland to stay, from Mississippi to Old Town, while southeast Portland provides many budget options. Below, we have listed three hotels to suit each budget.

Budget – With a vintage vibe and exposed brick, the Society Hotel is a top choice among budget travelers. Within walking distance of the Pearl District, a mouthwatering food scene, and Northwest Portland, you’ll have it all at your fingertips. Check rates and Reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Mid-Range – In Portland’s Northwest District, Park Lane Suites & Inn brings fantastic amenities at a great price. With a beautiful interior, well-equipped kitchen, and plush sofa, you’ll feel right at home. When you’re ready to explore Portland, the Lan Su Chinese Garden and Powell’s City of Books are steps away. Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Luxury – With a rooftop terrace, indoor pool, and enormous suites, the Hampton Inn & Suites will be the perfect home in Portland. Within the Pearl District, you are close to all the action in the city center, the best Portland restaurants, and the Portland Art Museum. Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Unique – Jupiter Hotel – We stayed at this hotel and loved its quirky vibe. A mid-century motor inn turned boutique hotel in the heart of Portland just minutes from downtown, and the Rose Garden Arena. Check rates and Reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Where we Stayed: We also stated at The Benson a historic landmark hotel in Portland that was founded in 1913. With a European flair it is a Four Diamond hotel. Check rates and reviews on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

How to get to Portland

The major arrival point for Portland, Oregon, is through the city’s major airport. Portland Airport is 9 miles from downtown Portland and the best way to travel is on the MAX light-rail train. The trip takes just under 40 minutes to complete, starting at 4:45 am, with the last train at 11:50 pm. Tickets cost $2.50 for adults.

Taxis and ride-share services provide alternatives. Depending on traffic, a trip takes anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes. Costs for a taxi hover around $35.

Shuttles are another common option. Some Portland hotels provide free shuttle transfers.

Amtrak also connects to Portland via several western USA cities.

Getting around Portland

One thing that quickly becomes noticeable as you travel around Portland is just how great bicycles are and how bad the car traffic is.

That doesn’t mean you should rule out hiring a car when in town. In fact, to enjoy the coast and the mountains on either side of the city, then you’ll need four wheels.

However, with great public transportation, you can get almost anywhere within Portland.

Bus – The TriMet bus system operates over 80 lines throughout the city. You can plan your journey on their website and attain arrival times and details of each stop. Beware that there are fewer services in the evening and the vast majority end after 1 am.

Light Rail – If you are downtown, then using the MAX light rail and the Portland Streetcar are two easy ways to get around. The light rail is reasonably extensive and easy to use. For trip planning, you can download the app on the TriMet website.

To make life easier and cheaper, grab a Hop Fastpass Card. Use all forms of transport without having to worry about cash.

Bicycle – Portland has an abundance of bike lanes and a strong bike share system. Drivers here are also more aware of their two-wheeled counterparts than elsewhere in the States. The bike-share system is called Biketown. Have your pick of 1500 bikes stationed at 180 different locations throughout the city.

Car Rental – Local traffic has an infamous reputation and can slow down your adventures around Portland. You can compare car rental prices for Oregon at RentalCars.com

SmartPark garages are a great option for when you can’t find a spot to park. But in general, you will want to save your car for day trips further afield.

Taxis – Cabs are readily available at all hours, while Uber and Lyft operate in great numbers.

Best time to visit Portland

Thanks to the impressive nature, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Portland. Sure, it can get pretty cold in the winter, yet the soaring mountains provide ample exciting opportunities from skiing to mountaineering.

However, with an abundance of urban spaces and flowers blooming in unison, spring is the best time to visit Portland. The cherry blossoms come to life and the city’s atmosphere awakes from the winter slumber.

Summer and fall present also present great travel opportunities. The urban parks pack out in the summer with festivities and markets galore. While in the fall, the foliage is worth the price of entrance all by itself.

Now that you’ve explored Portland, why not check out another outstanding Oregon city. Explore our guide to the best things to do in Bend!

South Korea is an amazing country. A cultural melting pot that’s the result of a number of different influences, from the colonial powers that at one time occupied it to the unique landscape and climate it boasts. It’s the confluence of these factors that have created the customs, attitudes, and food culture that exists there today. And if you haven’t visited Korea yet you should definitely put it on your list.

Traditional Korean Dishes

Korean food is based a lot on grains—in particular rice. From Kimchi fried rice to a sweet rice cake, it’s a cuisine that isn’t afraid of a little spice and uses a lot of fermented ingredients. Fish and seafood also play an important role in Korean food, because of the sea surrounding the Korean peninsula.

Many South Korean dishes have fascinating histories or cultural significance. A lot of the foods here are adopted or adapted from other cultures. We will be highlighting some traditional dishes but also some of those modern takes on Korean Food that have become really popular in the USA.

It is time to start your food journey in Korea. We can’t wait to show you some of our all-time favorite dishes.

1. Bibimbap (Korean Rice Bowl)

Bibimbap is one of the more well-known Korean dishes. You have probably tried it at home but until you have it in Korea, we say you are missing out. Bibimbap is a rice-based dish that can consist of vegetables, a fried egg, and whatever other protein you like.

If you want to make it the traditional way then make sure that each ingredient is sectioned separately in the bowl. Then you can mix them together before eating. The best Bibimbap used vegetables that have been blanched or sautéed with sesame oil and soy sauce, and meat that has been marinated before being cooked. I like the egg to be sunny-side up and then I top it with sesame seeds, spicy sauce, and scallions. Sounds amazing right?

The good thing about this being such a popular Korean dish is that you can get a version with seafood, beef, and tofu—there’s something to suit all tastes! If you visit Korea you will notice that different regions have their own takes on this dish.

2. Bulgogi (marinated beef barbecue)

Bulgogi is a dish you can’t miss if you’re visiting South Korea. Its name means “fire meat” and derives from its method of cooking. Bulgogi is made up of thin-cut slices of beef or pork that have been marinated and grilled on a barbecue.

Bulgogi is one of those simple Korean dishes that you can make at home. The key to a good Bulgogi is definitely the right cut of meat. We like to use top sirloin, but you can use whichever type of beef you like. Make sure to slice it nice and thin, that way it is more tender, then marinate it in soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and garlic. When you cook it, you want to hear that sizzle so make sure the grill is really hot.

This dish actually comes from Northern Korea, but today it is popular in South Korea as well. This is a delicious and unpretentious dish that you’ll find in most fast food and BBQ restaurants across South Korea.

3. Korean barbecue (Gogigui )

Speaking of BBQ, we couldn’t do a list of Korean foods without including one of our favorites: Korean Barbecue! Also known as Gogigui, this type of food is as fun to eat as it is delicious.

At Korean Barbecue restaurants, you order your meat, you’re given a selection of veggies, and then you can go to town grilling your own dinner. It’s a super fun way to spend an evening and a very social way of eating.

Now you may think that this sounds a lot like Bulgogi but the difference is that Bulgogi is actually a type of Gogigui. The term Gogigui just refers to the practice of grilling or roasting meat in Korean cuisine.

4. Gimbap: Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls

If you’re a fan of sushi then you’ve got to try gimbap. Gimbap is the Korean take on sushi and it’s most often enjoyed as street food—it’s super affordable so great if you’re traveling on a budget. It can include all sorts of inventive ingredients, including but not limited to beef, cheese, omelet, and even pork belly cutlet.

Another spelling of this dish is “kimbap” with Kim meaning seaweed and bap meaning rice. It was most likely first invented when Korea was under Japanese rule. Although some say it is an adaptation of the traditional dish Bokssam.

5. Kimchi

Kimchi is another super popular food in South Korea. It is a mix of spiced and fermented vegetables often served as a side dish. It is made of cabbage, carrots green peppers, radish, and spring onions.

We know that it’s been around since ancient times, with written accounts of it appearing as early as the 1st century. Pickling and fermenting were popular methods of preserving foods before the invention of modern appliances such as refrigerators. What’s interesting is that it wasn’t always spicy, the heat was only added after Portuguese traders introduced chilis to the region in the 15th century.

You can make so many different Korean dishes using it. There is kimchi stew (kimchi jjigae), kimchi pancake (kimchi jeon), and kimchi fried rice just to name a few. Make your own Kimchi with this delicious recipe!

6. Saengseon Jjigae (Spicy Fish Stew)

We mentioned above that seafood and fish are major staples of South Korean cuisine, and so are soups and stews. This dish brings together both of these concepts and if you’re visiting South Korea you’ll no doubt see it on menus everywhere. 

Saengseon Jjigae is a fish stew that consists usually of white meat fish and often prawns or other shellfish. If you’re a lover of fish then you’ve got to make sure to try this dish!

Making this at home is not that easy, but if you want to give it a try you basically cut the fish into bite-sized pieces, dust in flour, and pan fry until it is crispy.

The broth is made with anchovy paste and kelp in water to make a flavorful stock. Then throw in some spicy chili paste, garlic, soy sauce, and other seasonings, to give it a rich and spicy flavor.

Finally, you combine the stock with whatever vegetables you like and let it simmer until they are cooked. Finally, add in the fish, along with some chopped scallions, and let everything cook together for a few minutes until the flavors have melded together.

7. Sundubu-jjigae (soft tofu stew)

If you’d like to try a Korean stew (or jjigae) but you don’t eat meat or fish, you can always try Sundubu Jjigae, a variation of the traditional stew that is made with tofu. Fish, kimchi, and beef can also be added to this dish if you like.

A Korean main meal will almost always come with some form of jjigae—that’s how much of a staple it is! So if you’re in a restaurant there’s a good chance you’ll get to try it. This dish is thought to date back to ancient times, though recently more modern adaptations have been invented as well.

8. Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes)

From the very savory to the super sweet, Hotteok is a type of pancake oozing with sweet syrup. This is one of the most popular street snacks in South Korea and it’s not hard to see why! It can include additions such as crushed peanuts or cinnamon, and it’s usually eaten during the winter months to heat up cold commuters on chilly mornings.

9. Gilgeori Toast

If you’re looking for some tasty breakfast after you’ve shaken off your jet lag, we’ve got the perfect dish for you. Gilgeori toast is what most young South Koreans will grab for breakfast on their way to work. It’s savory, sweet, filling, and delicious.

Its main ingredients are egg, cabbage, and grated carrots. Ketchup, mayonnaise, and sugar—yes sugar—are other common additions. This popular street food may sound crazy, but somehow, it really works!

10. Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)

Another popular Korean street food, Tteokbokki is sliced rice cakes—though not as you know them. Far from the crunchy disks of puffed-up rice, this term conjures up, these rice cakes are soft, cylindrical, and deliciously chewy. 

To make Tteokbokki, first, the rice cakes and fish cakes are boiled until they are soft and tender. Then, the red pepper sauce, which is made with gochujang (Korean red pepper paste), garlic, soy sauce, and sugar, is added to the pot. The mixture is simmered until the sauce thickens and coats the rice cakes and fish cakes.

Tteokbokki comes in a number of different varieties, from curry to cream sauce and everything in between. This sweet and spicy dish is probably unlike anything you’ve tried before, but it’s too good to pass up. This dish is particularly popular on the streets of Seoul, so don’t forget to look out if you’re visiting.

11. Soondae (Korean blood sausage)

No, we’re not talking about ice cream and sauce here, so if you see this on a menu in Korea, don’t make this mistake! Sundae is in fact a blood sausage similar to the type you might get in a full Irish breakfast if you’re visiting the emerald isle.

This dish is usually made by steaming cow or pig intestines and stuffing them with various ingredients. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re an adventurous eater it’s definitely one to try.

12. Japchae (Korean Glass Noodles)

This is another dish that exemplifies the South Korean penchant for the combination of sweet and savory. It’s made from glass noodles and often contains mushrooms, carrots, spinach, and other veggies. It was once a dish reserved for royalty, and it’s now common to eat at celebrations such as weddings or birthdays.

There is nothing like a dish of glass noodles stir-fried in sesame oil and garnished with toasted sesame seeds to get your mouth watering. Try making your own at home with this recipe!

13. Gyeranppang (Egg Bread)

If you’re a lover of all things rich, then Gyeranppang is the dish for you. The name of this street snack translates to “egg bread” and that’s exactly what it is.

A light, fluffy, little loaf of sweet-tasting bread that contains a whole egg inside. Common toppings include ham, cheese, or fresh herbs such as parsley.

14. Nakji Bokkeum (Spicy Octopus)

Nakji-Bokkeum is another dish that might be best left to adventurous eaters, and if you’re not a fan of fish, you can probably give it a miss. Still, it’s an exceedingly popular dish in South Korea, and it’s definitely worth checking out.

Nakji-Bokkeum is a spicy dish made from stir-fried octopus. It’s believed to be a relatively recent addition to the South Korean diet, dating back to around the mid-1900s.

15. Yaksik (Sweet Rice)

Finally, we have a sweet dish that’s popular throughout South Korea. Yaksik is made from steamed rice, honey, and dried fruits. It also often includes cinnamon and even soy sauce. 

This dish dates back to around the 13th century. Today, it is traditionally served up on Jeongwol Daeboreum, a Korean holiday. It is also enjoyed at weddings.

16. Hangover Stew (Haejangguk)

Haejangguk, also known as Hangover Soup, is a traditional Korean soup that is believed to help cure hangovers. The name Haejangguk translates to “soup to chase a hangover.” The soup is made with pork bones and a variety of vegetables like bean sprouts, Napa cabbage, and radish. The soup also contains a variety of spices and seasonings, like garlic, ginger, and Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes).

I would say you will be hard-pressed to make this at home, but you can give it a try with this recipe.

Haejangguk is usually served with rice, kimchi, and pickled vegetables. If you are in Seoul you will definitely see Koreans eating this after a night of heavy drinking to help alleviate the symptoms of a hangover the next day. Does it work? Let’s just say we believe.

17. Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)

Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean dish that consists of grilled pork belly slices. The name “samgyeopsal” translates to “three-layered flesh,” which refers to the three layers of fat and meat on a pork belly. The dish is served with a variety of side dishes, including lettuce leaves, sliced garlic, ssamjang (a spicy soybean paste), and grilled onions.

To make Samgyeopsal, first, a thick cut of pork belly is sliced into thin, bite-sized pieces. Then marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Finally, grill it on a hot plate or barbecue until it is cooked through and slightly crispy on the outside.

The final step in this delicious dish is to place it on a lettuce leaf along with some garlic, ssamjang, and grilled onions, wrap it up, and eat it in one bite.

18. Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi Fried Rice is a popular Korean dish that is made by stir-frying cooked rice with kimchi and other ingredients. The dish is often served as a quick and easy meal or as a side dish to accompany other Korean dishes.

To make the Fried Rice, first, cooked rice is needed. Leftover rice works well, as it is slightly drier and easier to stir-fry. Kimchi is then chopped into small pieces and mixed with other ingredients such as diced onions, carrots, and green onions.

In a pan or wok, oil is heated over medium-high heat. The kimchi and vegetable mixture is added to the pan and stir-fried until the vegetables are softened. The cooked rice is then added to the pan and stir-fried until it is heated through and coated with the kimchi and vegetable mixture. Some variations of this Fried Rice may include other ingredients such as diced ham, bacon, or tofu.

It is often served with a fried egg on top, which adds a creamy texture to the dish. The dish can also be garnished with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor.

19. Steamed Mandu Dumplings (Jjinmandu)

Jjinmandu is a type of Korean dumpling that is often filled with meat and vegetables. The dumpling is similar to a Chinese-style jiaozi or Japanese-style gyoza but with its own unique flavor and texture.

To make Jjinmandu, first, a filling is prepared by mixing ground pork or beef with vegetables such as garlic, onion, carrot, and green onion. The filling is seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Some other types of Jjinmandu may include tofu, kimchi, or other ingredients.

Next, small circles of dumpling wrapper dough are rolled out and filled with the meat and vegetable mixture. The edges of the wrapper are then pinched together to seal the filling inside. The dumplings are then steamed or boiled until they are cooked through and the wrapper is tender.

Jjinmandu is often served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. The dish can be enjoyed as a snack or as a main course and is popular throughout Korea.

20. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

Kimchi Jjigae is a popular Korean stew made with fermented kimchi, pork, tofu, and other vegetables. Kimchi Jjigae is a traditional dish in Korea and is often served as a main course, especially during the winter. The dish has a long history and was first made during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) when families would ferment their own kimchi in large earthenware jars called Onggi.

To make Kimchi Jjigae, first, the kimchi is chopped into small pieces and added to a pot along with sliced pork and tofu. Other vegetables like onion, garlic, and green onions are also added, along with some water or broth. The stew is simmered until the pork is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The resulting dish is hearty and warming, with a tangy and spicy flavor from the fermented kimchi.

21. Korean Fried Chicken

Korean fried chicken, also known as KFC, is a popular Korean dish that consists of fried chicken coated in a crispy, crunchy batter and typically served with a spicy or sweet sauce. The difference between Korean fried chicken and other types of fried chicken is the use of a double-frying technique that creates an extra-crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside.

Once the chicken is fully cooked and crispy, it is typically served with a sweet and spicy sauce made with Korean chili paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Korean fried chicken is a popular Korean street food and you can find it almost anywhere in South Korea.

22. Jjajangmyeon (Noodles in Black-Bean Sauce)

Jjajangmyeon is a popular Korean-Chinese dish made with wheat noodles, black bean sauce, and various vegetables like onions, zucchini, and potatoes. The dish has a long history in Korea and was first introduced during the early 20th century by Chinese immigrants who settled in Korea.

To make Jjajangmyeon, first, the black bean sauce is prepared by frying diced pork belly with chopped onions and black bean paste. Vegetables like zucchini and potatoes are then added to the pot and cooked until tender. The resulting sauce is thick and savory with a hint of sweetness.

The wheat noodles are then cooked and served with the black bean sauce on top. The dish is often garnished with sliced cucumber and a drizzle of sesame oil. Jjajangmyeon is popular in Korea because of its rich and savory flavor and satisfying texture.

23. Samgyetang (Chicken Ginseng Soup)

Samgyetang is a traditional Korean soup made with a whole young chicken, ginseng, jujubes, and other medicinal herbs. The dish is often eaten during the summer months in Korea and is believed to have health benefits like boosting the immune system and increasing stamina.

So, how do you make Samgyetang? First, a whole young chicken is stuffed with glutinous rice and various herbs like ginseng, jujubes, and garlic. The chicken is then boiled in a pot with water until it is fully cooked and the broth is rich and flavorful.

The resulting soup is thick and hearty, with a delicate flavor from the herbs and tender meat from the chicken. Samgyetang is a popular dish in Korea and is often served in Korean restaurants and as a part of traditional Korean cuisine.

Our Favorite South Korean Cuisine

South Korea is a fascinating and culturally rich country and Korean food does an amazing job of reflecting this. There are so many different dishes to try, and the above represent just a few of our favorites. If you’re looking for more travel tips, don’t forget to check out the rest of our posts now!

Mediterranean islands have that special allure. With pristine beaches, rich history, and plenty of beach bars – what more could you want from a holiday? You’ve already chosen wisely by narrowing your search to an island in the Mediterranean. The Mediterranean region is stunning and packed with delicious food and attractions dating back to the ancient world. However, these are the islands that you will want to put at the top of your list.

Top Mediterranean Islands

In this guide, we’ve picked our ultimate recommendations for the best Mediterranean islands to visit. Here are this year’s top island travel destinations, with islands featuring white sand beaches, Roman ruins, and even an active volcano or two.

1. Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca is the largest Balearic island. And besides this size title, it’s easily one of the most popular islands in the Mediterranean for tourists. Mallorca made its way onto our list for its golden beaches and friendly vibe. You could drive around the island’s circumference in 5 to 6 hours.

The island has pine forests and beautiful architecture like Santa Maria Cathedral. Despite having a nightlife hotspot in the island’s capital, Palma, the island is family-friendly. Mallorca is also brilliant on a budget, with plenty of low-cost airlines running regular flights from major European cities.

Things To Do In Mallorca

• Catch the vintage train from Palma to Soller

A beautiful tram ride is a quintessential way to travel in Mallorca. This vintage train runs from Palma to Soller, passing orange groves and pine forests. Book your tickets here.

• Hike Ruta de Pedra en Sec

Ruta de Pedra en Sec is a stunning cobbled mountain trail that hugs the side of cliff faces and dramatic gorges. While 170km long, you can easily pick a smaller section for a less ambitious hike.

2. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek paradise, and everyone knows it. Aside from blue-domed churches and bright white buildings, Santorini has developed a reputation as among the Greek islands’ most luxurious. It is easily one of the most popular of the Mediterranean islands. Between its luxe atmosphere, things to do, and iconic status, we just had to include Santorini on our list.

Santorini itself was formed by a volcanic eruption. The eruption occurred thousands of years ago yet set out Santorini’s distinctive geographical layout for centuries. The craggy remains of the volcanic rock cut a stark contrast to Santorini’s glossy white buildings.

Things To Do In Santorini

Red Beach is a must and (as you may have guessed) is a trademarked burnt red color. It is ideal for a beach day with a difference.

Three Bells of Fira is a top choice amongst the blue-domed churches of Santorini. The Catholic Church is set above the ocean on a scenic clifftop.

Read More About Planning a trip to Santorini:

3. Menorca, Spain

Menorca is the second largest Balearic island. The Spanish island is more lowkey than Mallorca or Ibiza. It lacks the hardcore partying and resorts – instead famous for sandy beaches and a bit of peace and quiet. While still on all the major flight routes, it offers a more tranquil experience. This quality really stood out to us, and it had to go onto our list.

Menorca is probably 50% sandy beaches and 50% pine forests. But the capital Mahon has some cultural elements too. We suggest renting a car and beach hopping, then venturing into Mahon for food and culture.

Things To Do In Menorca

Cala Algaiarens is a vast sandy beach sheltered by cliffs and with calm waters ideal for swimming. There’s also a hiking trail nearby for the adventurous.

• Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau

This nature reserve is beautifully explored by kayak or by snorkeling. The marshlands are a conservation area and peaceful for wildlife watching.

4. Corfu, Greece

Corfu is a significant island in the Mediterranean. The Greek island is off the west coast of the beautiful mainland. Both cruise lines and airlines flock to Corfu – it’s a popular spot amongst all. Busy and unapologetically a channel for passing tourists, Corfu has a constant movement of people. An easy fix to that, though, is visiting in shoulder seasons. In shoulder seasons, markets and attractions are much quieter, and the spring or autumn salty breeze keeps you cooler anyway.

Corfu Town is the central hub of the island. However, resorts stud the entire circumference of the island, and fine sand beaches are all over. Rent a car and pick your ideal section of the coastline.

Things To Do In Corfu

This ancient fort is historically fascinating and also perfect for scenic views. Check out the displayed artifacts and allow a few hours to explore the grounds.

A remote beach in a rocky region surrounded by lush greenery and forests – Porto Timoni Beach speaks for itself. It’s an adventurous beach day destination.

5. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is the largest of all islands in the Mediterranean. The Italian island sits off the west coast of the mainland and screams natural beauty. It is also a living and breathing museum, with Roman and Greek ruins everywhere. Plus, there’s the thrill of Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, on the island’s east coast. Sicily is beautiful and exciting. It’s a winning combination if we ever did see one.

Things To Do in Sicily

This magnificent historical landmark is a vast archaeological site covered in ancient temples and an engaging museum.

• Take the cable car up Mount Etna

Taking a cable car up to Mount Etna is one of the most exciting things to do in Sicily. You get dropped at a final section of the hiking trail and emerge at the volcano’s crater. There are also a number of jeep tours if you want a more unique route up.

6. Capri, Italy

Capri is a beautiful island in Italy’s Bay of Naples, popular amongst luxury seekers. It is hard not to love its exclusive and glamorous appeal – whether you are on a luxury budget or not. The island has stunning beaches and a world-famous Blue Grotto, which can be visited by boat. Its glamor, things to do, and beaches are what won us over.

Things To Do in Capri

The Blue Grotto is a massive blue lagoon in a collection of sea caves. The light reflects, making the seawater ultra blue (electric blue at midday). You enter in a small fishing boat and can swim in the bright blue water. Book your tickets here.

• Chairlift up Mount Solaro

The Mount Solaro chairlift is a few minutes long but gives you stunning views of the ocean and rock formations. There’s also a cafe – the perfect espresso point.

7. Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza is a Mediterranean island with a party scene. It is a historic addition to the Balearic islands with 16th-century walls, yet it is better known for electronic dance music. Ibiza is one of the best islands for a party holiday. And when you are recovering from a night out, it has plenty of beautiful beaches and picturesque agricultural areas to explore with wild herbs and citrus groves.

Things To Do in Ibiza

The clubs in Ibiza are unrivaled. Some, like Pacha, have been open since 1973 and are iconic in their own right.

Even the biggest party holiday has room for a bit of history. This hilltop landmark is a medieval fortification and is well worth a visit.

8. Hvar, Croatia

Hvar is the best party island in Croatia. The island thrives on all things party-style. By day, you can enjoy beach parties, boat trips, and water sports. By night, the nightclubs whir into full action. Off the coast of Split, it is easily added to a holiday on the mainland. It wiggled onto our list because of its infectious sense of nightlife and ideal location.

Things To Do in Hvar

It goes without saying that you should party in Hvar. There are plenty of options, from beach bars to boat trips and nightclubs.

• Candlelight dinner in Humac

Humac is a deserted stone hamlet. It runs a deliciously atmospheric candlelit dinner experience in the evening in a traditional setting.

9. Cyprus

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. Officially a republic in its own right, the picturesque island is full of gorgeous beaches and vibrant nightlife. Whether you stay on the north coast or the south, you’ll experience Greek or Turkish culture. Most visitors choose one of the other as a hard border is in the middle of the island. But you could always combine the two if you have time.

We love the cultural aspect of Cyprus and also its size. There are many reasons to visit. And its red hot weather and party culture are just cherries on top.

Things To Do in Cyprus

• Archeological Site of Nea Paphos

These stunning Roman ruins feature tombs, mosaics, and a fortress.

Ayia Napa is party central in Cyprus. There are tons of huge nightclubs with special entrance deals.

10. Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos (aka Zante) is one of Greece’s most popular islands. The island is revered by partiers and those wanting a classic Greek island escape. When you aren’t partying, there is the dramatic Shipwreck Beach to discover, plus white sand beaches and baby turtles. It encapsulates all the benefits of a brilliant Mediterranean island. Its wide range of activities is what impressed us. Read more about Zakynthos here.

Things To Do in Zakynthos

Shipwreck Beach is the iconic snapshot of the rusted shipwreck at the bottom of a limestone cliff. The fine sand beach is only accessible by cruise and has characteristically bright blue waters contrasting the white cliffs.

Who doesn’t want to come face-to-face with a sea turtle? Zante is the perfect spot to snorkel with sea turtles or volunteer with baby turtles if you have time.

11. Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese – the Greek islands off the coast of Turkey. This Mediterranean island is packed with history and is heaven for anyone wanting to jump between ancient ruins in between beach days. In fact, its history is what caught our eye (and UNESCO’s since its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Rhodes also has a fascinating history of occupation, and the Ottomans and Italians have put their stamp on its cultural makeup.

Things To Do in Rhodes

The towering columns of Lindos Acropolis rival that of even Athens’ Acropolis. Reaching the ancient scene is a long walk up a steep cliff.

• Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

This palace was reconstructed in 1940 and is a beautiful landmark that speaks to Rhodes’ medieval and ancient heritage.

12. Elba, Italy

Elba is a Mediterranean island off of Tuscany. It provides an azure window into living on the Tuscan coast. Elba was Napoleon’s place of exile between 1814-15. Despite being a historical destination, Elba is a quiet place to embrace natural beauty. Its pristine beaches are dreamy and set in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park – which won us over.

Things To Do in Elba

This historical landmark dates back to the 13th century and is a stunning place for views over the Mediterranean island.

This villa was owned by Napoleon Bonaparte, a definite claim to fame. Stop by to experience the remainder of living history.

13. Gozo, Malta

Gozo is a Maltese island and one of the least visited islands in the Mediterranean. This Mediterranean island is laidback and full of fishing villages and peaceful beaches. Some people recommend spending as little as half a day here. But you’ll quickly enjoy a week or more if you want somewhere to really unplug. We’ve recommended it because it is so peaceful and ideal for those needing a break.

Things To Do in Gozo

Scuba diving in a scenic inland lagoon might be niche, but it is a fun activity in Gozo. If you have a PADI, check out this dive site.

This heritage site contains two of the oldest free-standing structures in the world. The limestone temples date back to the Neolithic era and are incredibly well-preserved.

14. Milos, Greece

Milos is another Mediterranean island with sheer white cliffs. Except it also has moonlike landscapes- which is why we’ve added it to this guide. The volcanic island is situated off the east coast of Greece and has striking geographical features. It has also built an impressive reputation as a party spot, considering it is one of Greece’s lesser-known islands.

Things To Do in Milos

Sarakiniko is Milos’ lunar beach. The beach is covered in limestone rock, and it’s widely compared to walking on the moon.

• Boat trip to the sea caves

Milos’ sea caves are stunning. The white limestone caves are only accessible by boat and contrast beautifully with the blue waters.

15. Folegandros, Greece

Folegandros is a tiny Greek island. Forget the crowds and major tourist attractions. This Mediterranean island is somewhere to unwind. The miniature ‘capital’ (picture a small town) is full of white-washed buildings. It clings beautifully to the blue waters of the coastline. With some medieval history to investigate, Folegandros is a Mediterranean island for your bucket list. It might be small, but it packs a punch, which impressed us.

Things To Do in Folegandros

This church is located on a dry mountaintop with an iconic zigzagging white stairway to the top. It is a scenic pilgrimage to make, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Livadi Beach is a tiny pebbled cove that suits Folegandros’ miniature aesthetic. It has a small-world feeling and an excellent spot to sit with a book or paddle.

16. Lefkada, Greece

Lefkada is a beautiful Mediterranean island in the Ionian Sea. Technically, it is connected to the Greek mainland, but only by a manmade causeway. So for the sake of this guide (and Lefkada’s dramatic cliffs and blue waters), we had to include it. It is accessible from mainland Greece and is one of the most pretty Greek islands. The limestone cliffs are like Zante’s Shipwreck Beach – just minus the crowds.

Things To Do in Lefkada

This beach is backed by towering limestone cliffs and bright blue waters. It is one of the best blue water beaches in Greece and is definitely photo-worthy.

Lefkada is full of culture and quiet villages. The Faneromeni Monastery is just one example of this. It is situated scenically on the side of a mountain with ornate furnishings and stunning views.

17. Djerba, Tunisia

Djerba is booming with natural beauty and a dramatic desert landscape. The island is off the north coast of Tunisia and has plenty of influences from North Africa. Djerba has beautiful beaches and is the southernmost island in our guide. We were impressed by its lesser-visited location and the blend of Berber, Arab, African, and Jewish cultures. Djerba is a real cultural hotspot with attractions like fishing ports and handicraft markets.

Things To Do in Djerba

• Horseback riding across sand dunes

Horseback riding is an exhilarating activity in Djerba. Should you possess nerves of steel, it’s one of the best ways to appreciate this Mediterranean island. The long stretch of desert and sand dunes is dream worthy for galloping. And the desert landscape is a unique break from watersports and blue waters.

Guellala Museum is full of historical pottery displays and art exhibitions. But it has another draw, too – its observation tower at sunset. It is a brilliant place for culture and an excellent viewpoint to finish.

18. Naxos, Greece

Naxos may be the largest of the Cyclades islands in the Mediterranean. However, size doesn’t correlate with popularity here; Naxos isn’t the most popular of the Greek islands. We have no idea why because it is stunning. It’s turquoise bays and golden sand do make it a sought-after beach destination for those in the know. And its capital, Chora, is a picturesque historic base full of iconic white cube-shaped houses. For us, the beaches and laidback vibe are major selling points.

Things To Do in Naxos

Naxos has a beautiful Old Town with houses resembling tiny sugar cubes. The white-washed buildings are pretty to walk between, and there are plenty of al fresco coffee shops with seating to people watch.

Kite surfing is a random addition. However, kite surfing is one of the best things to do in Naxos. Laguna and Mikri Vigla have the best kite surfing beaches.

Why Should You Visit The Islands of the Mediterranean?

Whether you choose a Spanish island or a Greek island, the largest island or smallest island, the Mediterranean will be a fabulous holiday destination. Each island has its own distinct personality. The Mediterranean islands are a full spectrum of different holiday types and experiences. Hopefully, you have now got a couple in mind.

Looking for more inspiration about the Mediterranean islands and region? Check out our guide on the best Mediterranean dishes to try when you visit. And if Hvar particularly caught your eye, Croatia has plenty of other beautiful islands to see nearby. Otherwise, have a wonderful time on your gorgeous island of choice.

Known as the Gateway to the North, Edmonton has 18 hours of sun in the summer giving you plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors. In the colder months, the river valley is transformed into a winter wonderland as the Northern Lights dance in the sky. As Canada’s northernmost major city, Edmonton is also one of the coldest cities in the world.
Don’t let that stop you from visiting though, Edmonton’s year-round attractions include the largest shopping mall in North America, Canada’s largest living history museum, Canada’s largest historical park and Canada’s largest indoor botanical gardens. No matter what time of year you visit you’ll always find some amazing things to do in Edmonton.

Top Things to Do in Edmonton

Are you ready to discover the best things to do in Edmonton? The capital city of Alberta has something to satisfy all tastes in travel. Known as the City of Festivals, Edmonton has more than 50 festivals a year, giving Montreal a run for its money. So no matter what time you visit, there is sure to be something going on.

Book your airport transfer in advance to avoid airport hassles. Your private driver will take you from the Edmonton Airport (YEG) to your downtown hotel. Your driver will be waiting with a name plate and will track your flight so you don’t need to worry about delays.

1. West Edmonton Mall

West Edmonton Mall is not the largest shopping mall in the world (as some tend to believe), but it is North America’s largest mall and a very impressive entertainment destination. Featuring more than 800 shops, a water park, an ice-skating rink, a golf area, and a replica of Christopher Columbus’ ship the Santa Maria used in 1492, this mall is definitely worth a visit.

Even if shopping is not on the list you must go to the West Edmonton Mall to see the spectacle. Besides the fun attractions, there are variety of restaurants, stores and boutiques. You can even book accommodation in one of the two hotels at the mall. 

• Fantasy Land Hotel and Resort – If you want to stay at West Edmonton Mall, this hotel has theme rooms and is connected directly to the mall.
• West Edmonton Mall Inn – For a more affordable option just steps away from the mall check out the West Edmonton Mall Inn.

Edmonton World Waterpark

Featuring over 17 slides in a tropical, exotic environment, World Waterpark is one of the best places to hang out. The water park was opened to the public in 1986 and is located inside the West Edmonton Mall. 

It is one of North America’s largest indoor water parks, so it will keep the whole family entertained for hours, if not for a whole day. And don’t worry if you didn’t bring a towel with you on your trip, just get there and rent a towel at the admissions office. 

2. Edmonton Muttart Conservatory

Discover the pyramids! Not the ones in Egypt, but the ones in Edmonton, Alberta! We’re talking, of course, about the botanical gardens at the Muttart Conservatory. Four pyramids feature more than 700 different species of plants from around the world in three climates – Arid Pyramid, Temperate Pyramid, and Tropical Pyramid. The fourth pyramid is the featured pyramid with seasonal displays and celebrations. It is one of the largest indoor botanical gardens in Canada.

An important horticultural attraction in Edmonton, Muttart Conservatory is located on the North Saskatchewan River valley, close to the downtown area. This is a year-round attraction and one of the best things to do in Edmonton taking you from Myanmar to Fiji. ‘Make sure to take a walk to the high ground the river for views of the skyline. American Redwoods and Australian Eucalyptus.

3. Alberta Legislature Building

The Alberta Legislature Building is known as “The Ledge,” hosts the Legislative Assembly and the Executive Council. The architecture of the building is superb, but don’t walk away as soon as you get your photos with it. Make sure to go inside for views across the Saskatchewan River from its terrace.

The Alberta Legislature Building offers free guided tours through this iconic landmark in Edmonton. Constructed between 1907 and 1913, it is recognized for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture. You can check their website for details.

Don’t miss going outside, The Legislature Building is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds that offer a peaceful and scenic environment for visitors to enjoy. The gardens include a reflecting pool, fountains, and numerous statues and monuments.

Alberta Legislature Building Visitor Centre

Don’t miss checking out the Visitor Centre which has a 4D immersive experience at Pehonan Theatre a visual history of the province of Alberta from its indigenous origins to the 20th century. The Vistor Centre is located on the main floor of the Queen Elizabeth II Building.

4. Edmonton River Valley Parks

The people of Edmonton know how to enjoy the great outdoors. The North Saskatchewan River Valley Parks System covers 18,000 acres combining 20 different parks across 48 km. Anything outdoors that your heart desires is available in this green space.

Hiking and cycling trails,(fat biking in winter) a golf course, ravines, and lakes and if you are into zoos, The Edmonton Valley Zoo is within the parks system. In the winter, there’s cross-country skiing and even a downhill ski slope at the Edmonton Ski Club where you can go snow tubing.

Some parks you’ll be passing through if you rent a bike or go for a run include:

• Hawrelak Park: A popular park with a lake, picnic sites, playgrounds, and events throughout the year, including the Heritage Festival.
• William Hawrelak Park: A large park with a lake, walking trails, picnic sites, and several events throughout the year, including the Symphony Under the Sky.
• Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park: A park with walking trails, picnic sites, and river access.
• Rundle Park: A large park with a golf course, walking trails, picnic sites, and a playground.
• Emily Murphy Park: A park with a playground, picnic sites, and river access.
• Terwillegar Park: A park with walking trails, picnic sites, and river access.
• Victoria Golf Course: A golf course located within the River Valley.

5. Louise McKinney Riverfront Park

One of the most popular parks in Edmonton is the Louise McKinney Riverfront Park. Located in the heart of downtown Edmonton along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River it is a beautiful park to spend some time outdoors. Rent a bicycle to go for a ride on its bike trails or simply stroll along the waterfront to take in the city skyline views.

Make sure to go to the Chinese Garden for some serenity and to see the  Edmonton Chinese Garden Nine Dragon Wall which features a mural of the Great Wall of China on one side, and nine dragons.

You can book bicycle rentals in advance to spin your way through the streets of Edmonton. Rental includes tool bag, spare tubes, flat pedals, pump and helmet. You can also rent an e-bike for an easier ride, which we suggest for sightseeing. The River Valley Adventure Company also rents bikes in Edmonton.

River Valley Adventures

The River Valley Adventure Company is located in the park and they offer Segway tours and bike rentals in the summer and fat bike and snowshoe rentals in the winter.

You can book this segway tour that let’s you experience Alberta’s Edmonton River Valley in a unique way on two wheels.  You’ll have see of the Edmonton Riverboat along the North Saskatchewan river and the scenic Walterdale Bridge which offers beautiful views of the Edmonton skyline.

6. TELUS World of Science in Edmonton

The science center is located in the Woodcroft neighborhood, close to Coronation Park. Telus World of Science aims to ignite curiosity and inspire discovery, and this makes it a wonderful destination for people of all ages, kids included. Children and adults alike have the opportunity to engage in science, participating in different experiments, and discovering the interactive galleries. 

And if your kid has a soft spot for science, you can even organize a birthday party for him here! The staff is friendly, and the food court offers a variety of dishes to choose from, so you can spend a few hours here enjoying the learning experience! 

7. Fort Edmonton Park

Time has stopped at Fort Edmonton Park where the streets are frozen in time. The 158 acre park is the largest living history museum in Canada and it’s definitely worth seeing when you visit Edmonton.

Costumed performers walk the replica of an 1885 street and you can tour an 1846 fort from the days of the Hudson Bay fur traders. Take a ride on the historic street car from 1909 and visit the recreation of the 1929 Capitol Theatre. It hosts events and concerts.

There is a Hudson Bay Fort and streets recreating Edmonton’s early history in 1885, 1905 and 1920. If you want a look at bits and pieces of Alberta and Canadian history the Fort Edmonton Park offers memorable experiences for everyone. Visit the fort for details.

8. Art Gallery of Alberta

The locals call it AGA (the acronym for Art Gallery of Alberta). The 8000 square meters building is located in downtown Edmonton, so you won’t have any issues finding it. Dedicated to visual arts emphasizing Western Canada. 6000 pieces, gift shop, restaurant and theatre space.

The building itself is an impressive piece of architecture. But there is more to the AGA than the magic of modern architecture. Art Gallery of Alberta is among Canada’s largest galleries featuring contemporary and historical exhibitions. 

9. Alberta Aviation Museum

Are you passionate about aviation? The Alberta Aviation Museum is a good place is a good option if you want to learn more about Canadian aviation history. The museum is housed in a historic airplane hangar at the former Blatchford Field, which was once one of the busiest airports in Canada.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of exhibits, including vintage aircraft, engines, and aviation artifacts from the early days of aviation to the modern era. With 40 aircraft including a World War II bomber and a replica of the Silver Dart, the first powered airplane to fly in Canada, this is a dream for history buffs.

The museum also offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. Children can participate in the museum’s Junior Pilots Program, where they can learn about aviation through hands-on activities and interactive exhibits.

10. Royal Alberta Museum

Located near the Art Gallery of Alberta, these make for a great combination. The Royal Alberta Museum is a natural and human history museum with the usual See exhibits distinctly Albertan highlighting Alberta’s Heritage and environment. Dedicated to natural history with more than 10 million objects on display. With 82,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) is the Western Canada’s largest museum.

Visit the RAM Website for more information.

Open Friday – Sunday

11. Neon Sign Museum

Let there be light! With some history behind it! This is actually an outdoor installation of vintage signs. Twenty neon signs originally from stores, railroads, and theaters have been reconditioned and hung on a building. It’s not your conventional museum, but you’ll definitely get amazing photos if you decide to take a walk in the area. 

12. Alberta Railway Museum

If you get to Edmonton’s northern suburbs, you can visit Alberta Railway Museum. The museum was founded in 1976 to preserve the railway heritage. Here you’ll discover over 75 engines and an impressive collection of still-operating, as well as static locomotives. But the highlight of this visit is the opportunity to go on a train ride (only available during summer).

Who doesn’t love trains? This museum is home to a vast vast collection of vintage trains, including steam, diesel, and electric locomotives. It also has model trains. If you want to start a new hobby, you can learn all about model railroading here. Take a guided tour for an in-depth look at rail transportation and history in Alberta.

13. High Level Bridge Streetcar

Owned by the Edmonton Radial Railway Society, the High Level Bridge Streetcar is a heritage streetcar. Running on the former Canadian Pacific Railway One of the things to do in Edmonton is to take a ride in it and enjoy spectacular views of the city and the river valley. 

Your journey through Edmonton’s river valley in the hundred-year-old old streetcar can take you to Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market and over the High Level Bridge. And the best part is that you get off when you want to visit a shop or grab a bite and hop on when you are ready to see more.

14. Hang Out at Old Strathcona Historic District and White Avenue

It is also known as 82 Avenue, and it’s one of the best places in Edmonton! Many make it a priority to get to the coolest neighborhood in Edmonton. With an eclectic mix of restaurants, theaters, and different shops, Whyte Avenue is an arterial road running through Old Strathcona.

The avenue got its name in 1891, after Sir Willian Whyte (superintendent of the CPR’s western division). We can say that Whyte Avenue is the heart and soul of the arts & fun district, so it is definitely a not-to-miss attraction. Speaking of CPR, The historic Canadian Pacific Railway Station is another attraction in the area that was built in 1908.

There are plenty of things to keep you busy in the Strathcona Historic District with the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, the Strathcona Antique Mall and The Princess Theatre. The Princess Theatre dates back to 1915 and is a great place to catch a movie in a classic setting. There aren’t many of them left!

This walking tour takes you through Strathcona and White Avenue following the history from the Klondike Gold Rush to the people who lived there. The route begins at the old train station tracing the history of this historic area.

15. Rogers Place

No visit to any Canadian city would be complete without seeing a hockey game during the hockey season and Edmonton is no different. The Edmonton Oilers are legendary. It was the team that The Great One, Wayne Gretzky made history with during his hockey days breaking every record in the book. (too bad he’s hawking gambling ads these days, but that’s another story)

The Edmonton Oilers play at Rogers Place which opened in 2016. It’s one of the best sports and entertainment venues in North America. When hockey isn’t playing, it hosts several events and concerts.

16. Commonwealth Stadium

If you want to see some Canadian football, make your way to Commonwealth Stadium to watch the Edmonton Elks (formerly Edmonton Eskimos) play. Besides being used for the Canadian football league, it is also used for a variety of other sporting and cultural events throughout the year.

If you are visiting Edmonton during a time with no football on the books, don’t worry, there are several events and music performances throughout the year. Check their schedule for events.

17. Winspear Center

Winspear Center is home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. The center was opened in 1997 and is located in the city center. Winspear Center is a performing arts centre that hosts different types of events and concerts. The acoustic is fabulous, so don’t hesitate to go see your favorite concert here. See what is playing now at their website

18. Edmonton International Fringe Festival

Are you a theater lover? Then you’ll probably want to check out North America’s largest and oldest fringe festival. The Edmonton International Fringe Festival is held in August in the Old Strathcona District. Artists and street performers line the streets and original productions take place in the many theatres.

The Edmonton Fringe Festival features over 1000 performances featuring over 1500 national and international artists. Here you can experience innovative theater without worrying that your little ones will get bored. Fringe Theater Festival has family and kids-friendly performances and also Theater for Young Audience shows. Enjoy ten days of interrupted fun at the Fringe Festival in Edmonton!

19. Silver Skate Festival

Do you remember we said that Edmonton is a city of festivals? Yes, even in the dead of winter, locals get out to embrace the cold. The Silver Skate Festival is a celebration of winter sports and culture that has been held in the Edmonton for more than three decades.

The festival is named after a historic speed skating event, the Silver Skates, which took place on the frozen North Saskatchewan River in the early 20th century. Today, the festival includes a variety of activities such as ice-skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, live music, art exhibits, and food trucks.

The festival also hosts a number of competitions, including the annual Canadian Birkebeiner ski race, one of the largest cross-country ski races in North America. Check out another winter festival in Canada Winterlude Itinerary – The Ultimate Guide to Ottawa

Other festivals in Edmonton

In the summer Louise McKinney Riverfront Park is the heart of the festival scene hosting The River City Shakespeare Festival, the Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival, and the Edmonton International Jazz Festival.

We have mentioned that Edmonton is a city of festivals and a few other festivals to keep an eye out for are the Edmonton Heritage Festival, The Shakespeare Festival, The Bright Night’s Festival

20. Elk Island National Park and Beaver Hills

Founded in 1906, Elk Island National Park is a protected area in the Beaver Hills region. It was created to preserve and protect the last of the big elk herds. Located just 35 minutes from Edmonton, Elk Island NP was the first wildlife refuge in Canada. Besides the big elk, it has also been a safe haven for the dwindling herds of Plains bison and wood bison for more than a hundred years.

The park covers an area of 194 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of wildlife besides the bison and elk and it is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with hiking trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, and lakes for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Elk Island is also known for its dark sky preserve. In the winter, Alberta’s nights are long making for excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Elk Island National Park offers a unique opportunity to stargaze under some of the clearest night skies in the country.

The Elk Island National Park is easily accessible from Edmonton. The Yellowhead Highway goes through the park. You will have to get a pass to go through the park, but the views are absolutely spectacular. Read more: The Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada

21. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Located 50 km east of Edmonton, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (known locally as The Village) is an open-air museum dedicated to preserving the Ukrainian Culture and history fo the Ukrainian immigrants who came to Canada.

The village is home to over 30 authentic historical structures, including homes, churches, schools, and farm buildings. These structures have been carefully preserved and restored, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.

The village is set in a picturesque rural landscape that offers visitors a peaceful and relaxing environment. The village’s natural setting includes rolling hills, forests, and streams, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Edmonton.

22. Trip to Jasper 

No trip to Edmonton would be complete without seeing the Canadian Rocky Mountains and Jasper National Park. If you drive, you can get to Jasper from Edmonton in about 4 hours. You can also take a bus, but it will be a longer ride, approximately 5 hours. By train is no less than 6.5 hours.

Despite the fact that it is not very easy to get there, a trip to Jasper is one of the best things to put on your to-do list while in the area. Jasper National Park is the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, and this is just one of the things that makes Jasper an appealing destination for many travelers. Check out all the Amazing Things to do in Jasper.

How to Get to Edmonton

Edmonton International Airport YEG), is 30 km from the city. To get around Edmonton and Alberta we highly suggest renting a car. You can check out Car Rentals for prices and availability. Taxis, Uber and airport shuttles can take you downtown.

If you aren’t renting a car, you can hire an airport taxi or take The Edmonton Skyshuttle. Uber and Lyft are also available. We suggest booking a private driver in advance to take the hassle out of finding transportaiton when landing.

By Car: Edmonton is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the city. The Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) connects Edmonton to British Columbia to the west and Saskatchewan to the east. The Queen Elizabeth II Highway (Highway 2) connects Edmonton to Calgary to the south. Other major highways that connect to Edmonton include Highway 216 (Anthony Henday Drive) and Highway 28. Compare Car Rental Prices for Edmonton here.

Edmonton is 3 hours straight north of Calgary up Highway 2. By Canadian standards, this is a short drive. Grab your Tim Hortons Double Double and get driving. Compare car rental prices here.

But if you want to take a more scenic drive, make your way to Banff and go up the Icefield’s parkway to Jasper and then onward to Edmonton. Why not make a full loop?

By Train: Don’t rule out the train. Edmonton can be reached by major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg or Saskatchewan. Via Rail operates train services to Edmonton from other major Canadian cities, including Vancouver and Toronto. The Edmonton train station is located in the heart of the city at 12360 121 St NW, making it easily accessible by public transit, taxi, or car.

By Bus: Several bus companies, such as Greyhound, offer services to Edmonton from other Canadian cities, including Calgary, Vancouver, and Winnipeg. The Edmonton bus station is located downtown at 10041 103 St NW, making it easily accessible by public transit, taxi, or car.

Final words about your trip to Edmonton, Alberta

A year-round destination, Edmonton has plenty to offer visitors. And it’s difficult to make a list of the top activities to try while in the city, especially if you have little time. 

Some choose to come to Edmonton and spend most of their time on the golf course, while others find it difficult to leave North America’s largest mall as there is no shortage of entertainment there. If you do decide to book a vacation in Edmonton make sure you get out to enjoy its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and museums. Edmonton has a lot going on!

If you’re looking to explore some of the best things to do in St. Louis, you’ve come to the right place. Being a Midwest city, you wouldn’t think St. Louis has all that much to do. But we are here to tell you there are loads of things to do in St. Louis.

You might’ve heard about St. Louis Arch or Busch Stadium where the Cardinals play but besides that, there are a ton of hidden gems and interesting things to discover in the city. 

Awesome Things to Do in St. Louis, MO

Founded in 1764, St. Louis has many historical buildings that have been beautifully renovated for modern-day use. There are also nationally recognized museums that host interesting exhibits and art to see. Apart from that, St. Louis has some delicious local food and some interesting spins on things that you have to try.

Here’s a look at just some of the best things to do in St. Louis!

1. Check out The Gateway Arch National Park

The Gateway Arch National Park is home to and named for the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. This national park reflects St. Louis’ role in the Westward Expansion of the United States during the nineteenth century, Thomas Jefferson’s role in opening the West, the pioneers who helped shape its history, and Dred Scott, who sued for his freedom in the Old Courthouse.

The Gateway Arch, being the main attraction of the park, features a short 4-minute ride to the top that costs $13-$19 per person, a brand new free museum about St. Louis’ role in westward expansion, and a 30-minute documentary movie about how the Arch was built.

The Gateway Arch National Park is absolutely the #1 thing to do in St. Louis for obvious reasons, but also because you can get the best views of the city of St. Louis as well as the Illinois side of the Mississippi River. You have not been to St. Louis if you didn’t check out the Gateway Arch!

2. Go to a Cardinals Game at Busch Stadium

The Cardinals are the professional baseball team of St. Louis, Missouri, playing all of their home games at Busch Stadium. The Cardinals have won the Major League Baseball World Series 11 times. Second only to the New York Yankees. We may be biased, but the Cardinals can put on a pretty good game.

If you are in St. Louis from April to September, it is the perfect opportunity to catch a baseball game at Busch Stadium. It is a super affordable experience for the entire family at an average cost of $40 a ticket, but you can easily find tickets for as low as $11 per person if you don’t mind some nosebleed seats. Grab your tickets here.

You will want to get to the park early to get the full Busch Stadium experience and also get the best chance of a good parking spot. Start the experience by taking a walk around the stadium while you enjoy all of the amazing views of downtown St. Louis and the Gateway Arch that Busch Stadium has to offer. You might also want to indulge in some of the ballpark fare while you’re at it!

3. Go out for Drinks at Ballpark Village

Ballpark Village is a 150,000-square-foot retail and entertainment district located right across from Busch Stadium. The district features Budweiser Brewhouse, Cardinals Nation, Bally Sports Live!, as well as several other entertainment and restaurant venues. 

Ballpark Village also produces over 120 free annual events and has welcomed over 10 million visitors so far. It is a new and exciting part of St. Louis’ community and nightlife that is within walking distance of many of the downtown activities.

Ballpark Village is open year-round and is active both day and night. There are events for all ages, but many of the venues are aimed at adults. You can do basically anything you can think of at Ballpark Village like: eat, drink, stay, shop, explore, and so much more. Going for a drink is one of the best things to do in Saint Louis before or after a Cardinals baseball game.

4. Get out in Nature at Forest Park

Forest Park is considered to be one of the nation’s greatest urban public parks featuring 1,300 acres of beautiful landscapes like forests, different ecosystems, nature reserves, lakes, streams, 5 major cultural institutions, and endless opportunities for recreation. Best of all, the park and many of the institutions are free for the public to enjoy!

To put the size of Forest Park in perspective, it is larger than Central Park in New York! That would explain how the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, The Muny, Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Zoo can all be situated inside Forest Park. 

The Saint Louis Zoo, located on the southwest side of Forest Park, is known as one of the top 10 zoos in the United States and it is one of the only free zoos as well. The zoo is dedicated to research and conservation and works locally and globally to protect animals and their habitats.

5. Day Trip to St. Charles

There are plenty of amazing day trips that you can take from St. Louis such as floating down some of Missouri’s pristine rivers on a Missouri float trip, but another noteworthy day trip to check out is St. Charles, Missouri. 

Founded in 1769, St. Charles is a restored historic city situated right on the West side of the Missouri River. Much of the history of St. Charles can be found in the buildings that line the Historic Main Street. 

You can eat, drink, and shop at a variety of businesses that have found a home on Main Street as well as take a walk in the parks that surround the area. You will also find that St. Charles’ Main Street hosts many events year-round, and a lot of those events are free.

St. Charles is approximately a 35-minute drive from St. Louis, Missouri, making it the perfect day trip to add to your list of things to do in St. Louis!

6. Visit the Saint Louis Art Museum

Another institution located on the west side of Forest Park is the Saint Louis Art Museum. The St. Louis Art Museum, otherwise known as SLAM, is one of the principal United States art museums featuring beautiful and interesting paintings, sculptures, cultural objects, and ancient masterpieces from all over the world. 

The Art Museum is open to the public every Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission to the museum is free every day all year round, and admission to the main rotating exhibitions is free every Friday.

The Saint Louis Art Museum is constantly changing with new exhibitions, installations, and acquisitions and it offers a bunch of exciting on-site activities for all ages. There are over 34,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history and cultures to see here. 

7. Meander through the Missouri Botanical Garden

The Missouri Botanical Garden, informally known as Shaw’s Garden, is a center for botanical research and science education in St. Louis. The Garden offers 79 acres of amazing horticultural display, including a 14-acre Japanese garden, historic architecture, and one of the world’s largest collections of rare and endangered flora.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM year-round. The top attractions of the garden are the Climatron, the Japanese Garden, and the Sachs Museum. If you get tired of walking, the Botanical Garden also offers narrated tram tours to help you explore the garden.

While the Missouri Botanical Garden is one of the few ticketed institutions in St. Louis, it is only $14 for adults to enjoy the gardens. The garden also hosts a variety of rotating events throughout the season that focus on things like art installations. The Botanical Garden is by far one of the most beautiful things to do in St. Louis, MO.

8. Learn about History at the St. Louis History Museum

Another free staple located at the north entrance of Forest Park, the Missouri History Museum explores the histories of those who call the St. Louis region home. The museum, run by the Missouri Historical Society, focuses on the history of St. Louis from its founding in 1764 up to the present day. You can discover the city’s history of sports, life on the Mississippi, the 1904 World’s Fair, and so much more! 

The Missouri History Museum is typically open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM year-round. General admission as well as most special rotating exhibits and events are always free for everyone.

If you want to go on a deeper St. Louis history dive, the Missouri Historical Society offers 24+ different tours that mix engaging storytelling and deep historical knowledge with enthusiasm for the city of St. Louis. The tours range from $20-$35 and can last up to 2 hours long.

9. Go on a Brewery Crawl

Apart from the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis is known for its expansive craft beer scene. St. Louis has over 20 breweries and thousands of beer styles to offer locals and visitors alike. Some of the St. Louis favorites include 4 Hands Brewing Co., The Schlafly Tap Room, Rockwell Beer Co., Urban Chestnut Brewing Co., and dozens more.

You are also likely to be familiar with Budweiser, and St. Louis is actually home to the headquarters of Anheuser-Busch. You can enjoy the Budweiser Brewery Experience there which allows you to explore the campus, visit the Clydesdales, and taste the beer straight from the finishing cellars.

Budweiser offers a variety of experiences that are customized to fit your interests and timeframes. Depending on the experience, it can cost $15-$40 per person.

10. Head to The Hill for Delicious Italian Food

The Hill is a unique Italian neighborhood located in St. Louis City. The area was founded by Italian immigrants in the 1800s which is what still heavily influences the “little Italy” feel of the neighborhood today. The Hill is full of proud longtime residents as well as some new faces that keep history alive today.

You can get the full authentic Italian neighborhood experience in The Hill by visiting any of the 25 amazing restaurants, shopping for unique gifts and goods, or staying in one bed and breakfast inside of the historic homes. 

We also can’t talk about The Hill without mentioning the St. Louis favorite, toasted ravioli or t-ravs. The toasted ravioli is a breaded deep-fried ravioli, usually served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like marinara sauce. This St. Louis food oddity was first created and popularized in the 1950s at the restaurants in The Hill!

11. Go on an Adventure at The City Museum

While exploring downtown St. Louis, you will probably stumble across a building that has a school bus hanging off of the edge of it and wonder what on earth is happening. That is just the norm at the City Museum though! 

The City Museum is a weirdly wonderful museum of play with a rooftop and 4 floors full of installations, attractions, collections, and more. Many of the museum’s exhibits consist of repurposed architectural and industrial objects, most of which are interactive. Perfect for the adults to enjoy while the kids play.

Tickets to the City Museum start at $20 per person and get you access to the 30+ slides, man-made caves, treehouse + tunnels, the world’s largest pencil, and so much more!

If you visit from March through October, you can also add rooftop access for only $8 so you can check out the giant praying mantis and the Big Eli Ferris Wheel.

12. See the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, or the Saint Louis Cathedral, dates back to 1764 and is a one-of-a-kind work of art. With so much beauty to see on the inside and the amazing architecture on the outside of this cathedral, it is a definite stop on our list. 

There are free guided and self-guided tours available most days between 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM so you won’t miss out on any of the details.

The lower level of the Cathedral Basilica is home to the Mosaic Museum. The museum contains several displays depicting the design and installation of mosaics along with other historic religious objects. 

Also located in the museum in the Cathedral Crypt if you want to get a little spooky. The museum is open every day until 4:00 PM with a contribution of $2 per person requested as admission.

13. Drink a Root Beer Float at Fitz’s

Fitz’s is a local St. Louis craft soda microbrewery and restaurant offering delicious American food, famous floats and shakes, and views of the bottling line. Fitz’s bottles all 19 of their unique flavors on their vintage bottling line right inside of the restaurant, but their root beer is their most famous flavor. 

This isn’t just an ordinary root beer though. Fitz’s Root Beer is recognized as one of the best root beers in the United States! The root beer is made according to an original recipe developed in St. Louis in 1947, and it is most famously served as a Root Beer Float at Fitz’s.

You can order one of the famously large Root Beer Floats during any day of the week from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM at either their historic Delmar Loop or South County locations.

14. Head to the Museum of Transportation

Founded in 1944, the Museum of Transportation will take you on a ride back in time through 190 major exhibits. The collection is recognized as the largest collection of transportation vehicles in the world. You will get to see historically famous train cars, cars, boats, and planes some of which are attached to some pretty neat St. Louis history.

Not only does this museum have all things transportation, it even has gardens, a cafe, and a boutique. There are gardens on all 3 levels of the museum that incorporate native and sustainable plants to help the local birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. 

Barrett’s Landing Café is a great place to visit for lunch. They have lots of options so you can either grab a meal, a quick snack, or a to-go treat. The Boxcar Boutique, located inside the main museum building, has fun commemorative pieces and transportation-themed gifts.

The Museum of Transportation is open every Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can take a guided or self-guided tour, and admission starts at just $5 per person.

15. Get an Ice Cream at Ted Drewe’s

Ted Drewe’s has been selling frozen custard in St. Louis for over 80 years and is one of the most popular summertime treats for St. Louisans and tourists alike. Ted Drewe’s has all kinds of delicious dessert treats but is best known for the “concrete” which was created in 1959. A “concrete” is a malt or shake so thick that it can be served upside down!

This makes Ted Drewe’s the perfect ritual stop to make after a long hot day visiting one of the many Saint Louis things to do like the Arch, the Fox and Muny Theaters, the St. Louis Zoo, or a Cardinal’s baseball game.

16. Visit Union Station

St. Louis’s Union Station used to be one of the largest and busiest passenger rail terminals in the world, but today it serves a new purpose for the city of St. Louis. 

The Union Station now houses a variety of activities like the St. Louis Aquarium, a gigantic Ferris wheel, a rope course, mini golf, a carousel, a mirror maze, and light shows. Apart from the entertainment, there are ample options for food, so you can also grab a bite to eat at one of the 9 different restaurants. Also if you happen to get too tired by the end of the day, you can stay at the Union Station Hotel.

Basically, the St. Louis Union Station has it all. It really captures the essence of history, fun, and entertainment. It is definitely a place to bring the family and spend an entire day! Union Station is also the jumping-off point for this amazing tour of St. Louis Landmarks.

17. Spend a day at St. Louis Science Center

The Saint Louis Science Center is another one of the great free things to do in Saint Louis. It is one of the only free nonprofit science museums in the country, and it serves more than 1 million people each year. 

The Science Center campus features more than 700 interactive experiences across 10 different galleries. There is also an agricultural outdoor pavilion, the famous McDonnell Planetarium, and the 4-story OMNIMAX Theater. You are sure to be wowed by the dinosaurs if nothing else! 

The Saint Louis Science Center combines experimentation, creativity, and play which makes it pretty much the perfect place to bring the whole family for a super informative yet fun experience. 

18. See a Show at The Fabulous Fox Theater

The Fabulous Fox Theater, a former movie palace, is a performing arts center that presents the ‘Best of Broadway’ in St. Louis. You can see shows ranging from Broadway shows, Vegas performers, concerts, classic movies, and more.

Fabulous is a part of the name for a reason too. Apart from the entertainment, the Fabulous Fox Theater is known for the exquisite interior of the historic building. You can check out the amazing interior and experience the magic of the Fox Theater for as little as $32 a ticket!

You can make it dinner and show too since The Fabulous Fox Theater is located in the arts district of the Grand Center area in Midtown St. Louis. This surrounds the theater with some delicious dining options as well as some nice hotels to spend the night at.

19. Check out the City Garden Sculpture Park

Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis, City Garden Sculpture Park is an urban sculpture park full of free interactive art, fountains, and gardens. The City Garden spans approximately 2 blocks in downtown St. Louis, consisting of paved paths that lead visitors around 24 sculptures, 6 rain gardens, a children’s spray plaza, and a 180-foot-long pool with a waterfall.

The City Garden Sculpture Park is one of the great things to do in St. Louis, MO, on a hot summer’s day. It is the perfect place to bring the kids especially because all of the sculptures are made to be played on.

The park is open and accessible year-round. It is yet another wonderful free thing to do in St. Louis that is located within walking distance of the Gateway Arch!

20. Grab some Veggies at the Soulard Farmers Market

The Soulard Farmers Market is the oldest operating public market in St. Louis, Missouri, and the oldest public market in the United States west of the Mississippi River. Located in the Soulard neighborhood’s “Grand Hall”, the market is in the heart of St. Louis. 

The market hosts 147 stalls with vendors that sell everything you could possibly think of like fresh produce, meat, seafood, cheese, snacks, baked goods, spices, flowers, and much more!

The Soulard Farmers Market is open Wednesday through Saturday year-round despite being an open-air market. Entry is free, but it is recommended to have cash on you if you plan to make a purchase as some vendors don’t take debit or credit cards.

21. Use your Imagination at the St. Louis Magic House

The St. Louis Magic House is a not-for-profit Children’s Museum full of hands-on exhibits and educational programs. The Magic House offers a variety of interactive learning experiences and fun St. Louis things to do for kids. 

This award-winning educational destination is located in Kirkwood, Missouri, which is right outside St. Louis. The museum was originally a 5,500-square-foot Victorian Mansion, but it is now a place that has sparked the imagination of over 15 million visitors!

The St. Louis Magic House is typically open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The admission is just $6.00 for anyone ages 1 and older, but you can catch a Free Family Night every third Friday of the month.

22. Art Hill

Located right in front of the St. Louis Art Museum, Art Hill is an expansive field overlooking the Grand Basin in Forest Park. The Grand Basin was actually the center of the World’s Fair that took place in St. Louis in 1904. 

Nowadays, Art Hill is a perfect place to go in St. Louis to enjoy a nice picnic and sunny weather. In the summer months, Art Hill hosts a film series showing popular movies and concerts throughout the week. 

Art Hill is also popular in the wintertime when it snows as it’s a great hill to go sledding down!

23. World Chess Hall of Fame

The World Chess Hall of Fame is a non-profit institution located in the Central West End neighborhood that celebrates the game of chess with exhibits and different programs throughout the year.

The exhibits will teach you about the history of chess as well as the impacts it has had over the years on our culture. The World Chess Hall is actually also home to the Guinness World Records’ Largest Chess Piece.

Along with its sister organization, the Saint Louis Chess Club, there are a lot of fun ways to get involved in playing the game of chess in St. Louis. Because of these two organizations, St. Louis is actually known as the Chess Capital of the United States. So if you’re a lover of chess, be sure to make a stop at the World Chess Hall of Fame when visiting St. Louis.

24. Laumeier Sculpture Park

The Laumeier Sculpture Park is another fun park located in the Sunset Hills, a neighborhood about 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis. The park is a great way to engage with art and nature with its 105 acres of rolling gardens and 60 outdoor sculptures. 

The park is maintained in partnership with the St. Louis County Parks and Recreation Department and has monthly events for all ages and interests. They host different kinds of workshops such as wind chime making, pottery, and yoga classes. 

The park also hosts festivals throughout the year where thousands of people gather to appreciate the beauty of the park and the unique art. 

25. Contemporary Art Museum

The Contemporary Art Museum in St. Louis is a great place to spend a day if you love contemporary art. The museum is another institute in St. Louis that is free, so it’s easy to spend a few hours checking out the exhibits. 

The CAM is located in the Grand Center Arts District where you’ll find a dozen of other museums, exhibits and galleries, and concert halls. 

Besides just exhibits, the CAM hosts artist talks, film screenings, and workshops and performances. Another fun thing the museum has is First Fridays where on the first Friday of every month, they have guided tours of the museum and music played by the in-house museum DJ.

26. National Blues Museum

The National Blues Museum is dedicated to celebrating and teaching everyone about the origins of blues music and its impacts on our culture. The museum opened its doors in 2016 and the daughter of B.B. King actually spoke at the museum opening!

The museum hosts educational rotating exhibits and incredible performances in their state-of-the-art theater. Admission is $15 for adults and it’s located right downtown so you can easily walk from other spots you plan to visit such as the Arch or City Garden Sculpture Park. 

Wrap-Up: The Best Things to Do in St. Louis, Missouri

Whether you are looking to spend a day or a week here, there are so many fun and exciting things to do in St. Louis, Missouri for everyone. You can spend a nice day outside at a baseball game or keep cool and comfortable inside one of the many museums. There is also every kind of food you could think of plus some favorite St. Louis editions like toasted ravioli to try. 

You might not be able to get to do all 21 of the best things to do in St. Louis, but we hope that we have helped you narrow down your favorite must-dos and planned the perfect St. Louis excursion!

Author Bio

Ron and Jess are the owners of Unearth The Voyage, a travel blog dedicated to outdoor adventures, US National Park guides, and itineraries to help you plan your next trip.  After traveling full-time for 4 years, they have put roots down in St. Louis but still travel part-time in their RV and internationally. They love coming back to St. Louis after spending time away and being involved in all the incredible things the city offers. You can connect with Ron & Jess on their Instagram or Facebook page where they offer more inspiration and tips for traveling. 

There are so many things to do in the Grand Canyon, it can take days to see it all. It’s no wonder seeing the Grand Canyon is at the top of many people’s bucket lists, but it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Never fear, we are here to help. We’ve rounded up the best ways to experience the Grand Canyon from the best hiking trails to the best viewpoints. So are you ready to see this spectacular wonder? Let’s go!

Top Things to Do at The Grand Canyon

We didn’t expect to be this impressed when we visited Grand Canyon National Park, but wow, did it prove us wrong! The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s natural wonders and it lives up to the hype. At one mile deep, 18 miles wide, and 277 miles long, The Grand Canyon follows the Colorado River winding through the Colorado Plateau creating one of the most spectacular landscapes on earth.

If you are taking a road trip across America or simply touring around Arizona, you cannot miss visiting the Grand Canyon. To help you start planning, here are some things to do at the Grand Canyon to make the most of our visit.

About the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park has an entrance fee. The cost to enter the Grand Canyon is. Grand Canyon Park fees are $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle, for a seven-day pass. An annual park pass costs $70.

The Grand Canyon is about 1,904 square miles (4931 square km) or 1,218,375 acres. A cool fact about the Grand Canyon is that the entire state of Rhode Island can fit in it.

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. 5.9 million people visit the Grand Canyon every year so it can be busy, especially at the South Rim and visitor center, but there are ways to get off the beaten path, do some hiking or camping and to see a different side of Grand Canyon National Park.

Considering its size, it can be very overwhelming to decide where to start exploring Grand Canyon National Park, but we are here to make things easier for you.  

How to Get to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is 3-4 hours from Phoenix Arizona and 5 hours from Las Vegas to the South Rim. If you are flying into the Grand Canyon, you’ll be flying to the Grand Canyon National Park Airport just outside of the town of Tusayan. Tusayan is located at the Grand Canyon’s south entrance.

There are several entrances to the Grand Canyon, and the directions to each of them can vary depending on your starting point. Here are some of the most popular entrances and how to get to them:

South Rim Entrance: The South Rim is the most visited part of the Grand Canyon and is open all year round. The main entrance to the South Rim is located in the town of Tusayan, just south of the park. To get there, you can drive on US-180/US-64 from Flagstaff or take AZ-64 from Williams. Once you reach Tusayan, follow the signs to the Grand Canyon Village and the South Rim Visitor Center.

North Rim Entrance: The North Rim is less visited than the South Rim and is only open from mid-May to mid-October due to winter weather conditions. To get to the North Rim Entrance, take AZ-67 from Jacob Lake, which is located on US-89A between Fredonia and Page.

West Rim Entrance: The West Rim is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation and is only accessible by taking a shuttle or helicopter tour from Las Vegas, which is about a 2.5-hour drive away.

East Entrance: The East Entrance is the least visited entrance to the Grand Canyon and is only accessible by driving on a dirt road from US-89, about 30 miles south of Page, Arizona.

Grand Canyon’s South Rim

There are three main sections of the South Rim to explore, The Rim Trail, Hermit Road, and Desert View Drive. They are all easily accessible for taking scenic drives and shuttle busses are on hand to transport visitors from the Visitor Center to the trailheads.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most popular and accessible. This is most likely where you’ll begin your Grand Canyon adventure. So let’s check out all of the amazing things to do at the Grand Canyon’s south rim.

1. Grand Canyon Visitor Centre

One of the best places to start when you visit the Grand Canyon South Rim is at the Grand Canyon is the Visitor Center at the South entrance. It’s worth going inside to pick the park ranger’s brains, get information on the hiking trails, and learn about the national.

There are plenty of points of Interest in the Grand Canyon leading out from the visitor center. You can hop on the Rim Trail in either direction from here and see some of the best views. So, without further adieu, let’s explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

2. Grand Canyon Village

Let’s start in Grand Canyon Village. This is an excellent place to make a base when you visit the Grand Canyon. Here, you can book Grand Canyon tours.

It is also a hub for hiking trails and shuttle buses, there are hotels and shops to purchase hiking gear, and you can visit some of the Grand Canyon’s top attractions like the Lookout Studio, and Kolb Studio, Grand Canyon Railway. There are even restaurants and coffee shops and a market to stock up on groceries if you are RVing.

Have a short time at the Grand Canyon? Book this fun Hummer Tour – Enjoy a 2-hour tour including entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park where you’ll see the best, viewpoints on the South Rim in a luxury Hummer. If you have a short time at the Grand Canyon, this is an excellent option.

3. Hermit Road Shuttle Bus

From Grand Canyon Village, you can hop on the Hermit Road Shuttle Bus to Hermits Rest. Hermit Road is one of the best scenic drives on the Grand Canyon, but it is closed to traffic between March 1 and November 30. We took this bus when we visited the Grand Canyon. The round-trip route lets you hop on and hop off at some of the most scenic lookouts along the south rim.

There are 9 stops along the seven-mile drive (14.4 km) including the Canyon Rim Trail, Greenway Trail, Trailview Overlook, Powell Memorial, Mohave Point (where we took in the sunset) The Abyss, Pima Point, Hermits Rest, and Hermit Trial.

You can hop off at any stop you like, explore the trails and viewpoints and then catch the next bus. Some of the best stops include Powell Point, Pima Point, and Mojave Point. If you are not hiking the Grand Canyon, this is a good way to see a lot in one day.

4. South Kaibab Trailhead Viewpoint

The South Kaibab Trailhead is another great stop on the shuttle bus for exploring the Grand Canyon. It is a popular stop for people hiking the South Kaibab Trail down to the Colorado River, but there are other trails to explore here too.

Take the orange line shuttle bus to the trailhead from the Visitor Center or village and then choose from several different day hikes. You can even do multi-day trips from here. Read The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona. the hike is pretty amazing and you can even jump on a guided hike if you don’t have a lot of experience.

The orange line stops along many stops on the Rim Trail including Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Mather Point, Yavapai Point Geology Museum, South Kaibab, Yaki Point, and Pipe Creek Vista.

5. The South Kaibab Trail Hike

If you want to do more than just a stop on the shuttle bus for grand canyon views, you can hike the South Kaibab Trail but be prepared and have supplies, this is a full-day trek.

The South Kaibab Trail is a 7.3 mile (11.7 km) one-way trip to Bright Angel Campground way down in the canyon. If you do this in one day, you’ll want to leave early as it is a steep ascent back up. It will take about 4 to 5 hours alone to get to the campground located on the Colorado River.

If you are planning on camping, be sure to book ahead of time as slots fill up quickly. The campground is located on the north side of the river and you’ll cross the scenic Kaibab Suspension Bridge.

Rim to Rim Hike

If you are looking to take the adventure up a notch, the Rim to Rim hike gores from the South Kaibab Trail to the North Kaibab Trail on the north rim. (or vice versa). The hike is challenging, covering about 24 miles (depending on the route taken) and involves a total elevation change of around 10,000 feet.

The trailhead is located Yaki Point which you can reach by shuttle bus. The Rim to Rim hike is typically done as an overnight backpacking trip, with hikers camping at either the Bright Angel Campground or the Cottonwood Campground. Hikers must obtain a backcountry permit from the park before starting the hike that you can obtain from the National Park Service website.

6. Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon

One of our favorite things to do whenever we travel is to take a helicopter ride and another unique way to experience the grand canyon is to take a helicopter flight. For an unforgettable trip to the Grand Canyon Book this helicopter tour over the south rim.

If you want to see the Grand Canyon from above book this scenic flight over the Grand Canyon to enjoy the majestic views of Grand Canyon National Park. , You’ll fly over the Zuni Corridor, Imperial Point, Confluence of Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers, Kaibab National Forest, and Kaibab Plateau.

This 45-minute trip gives you a bird’s eye view of the South Rim and Kaibab Forest. Plus you’ll take a breathtaking journey through Dragon Corridor, the widest and deepest part of the canyon. This is the tour that we recommend

7. Grand Canyon Mule Rides

One of the most iconic things to do in Grand Canyon National Park is to take a mule ride down into the canyon. These overnight rides take you deep into the canyon to the Phantom Ranch located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

This is such a popular tour that spaces are limited and to stay at the ranch, there is a lottery to book mule rides, reservations are highly recommended: Mule rides may be reserved by calling 1-303-297-2757 or toll-free within the United States at 1-888-297-2757.

8. Yaki Point and Ooh Aah Point

If you don’t want to do the full South Kaibab Trail, there are two other popular trails here. Yaki Point is just a 1.6-mile round trip hike (2.5 km) from the trailhead or you can hike to the Ooh Aah Point which is just .8 of a mile (1.2 km) from the trailhead. The trailhead for the South Kaibab Trail is located near Yaki Point, which can be reached by shuttle bus or private vehicle.

You’ll definitely want to see both of these viewpoints before moving on. Many people say that the Ooh Aah Point is their favorite view of the grand canyon.

Ooh Aah Point

Ooh Aah Point is approximately 1.8 miles down the South Kaibab Trail from the trailhead, and it offers stunning views of the canyon walls, rock formations, and the Colorado River. The viewpoint is named for the feeling of awe and amazement that many visitors experience when they first see the panoramic views of the canyon from this location. This point certainly lives up to its name.

To reach Ooh Aah Point, you’ll need to hike down the South Kaibab Trail, which is a steep trail that descends approximately 1,100 feet in elevation over the course of the 1.8-mile hike to the viewpoint. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views at every turn, but it’s important to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate hiking shoes, and be prepared.

9. South Rim Trail

One of the most popular hiking trails in the Grand Canyon is the South Rim Trail. This paved walking path goes along the south rim from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermit’s Rest for 13 miles (20 km).

The hike takes approximately 5-6 hours and goes through the visitor center, the village, Powell Point or Mojave Point, Monument Creek Vista, and finally Hermit’s Rest. You can hop on this travel at several points so you don’t have to do the entire walk.

10. Mather Point

If you aren’t planning to do many hikes, Mather Point is a popular stop from the Visitor Center. It is just a short walk but it packs a huge punch, you’ll see some amazing views.

This is the most popular viewpoint in the Grand Canyon as it is just a short walk along the trail before you come out to vistas of the canyon. But expect to share this view with a lot of crowds. Mather Point is just a five-minute walk from the Visitor’s Center and you can also stop here when hiking along the Rim Trail.

11. Yavapai Point

Yavapai Point is another prime viewpoint on the Grand Canyon’s south rim. You can hike to it from Mather Point which is just a 1.5-mile round-trip hike (2.5km).

It gives the best view of Bright Angel Canyon on the North Rim and it is here that you can visit the Yavapai Museum of Geology. This is one of the best places in the Grand Canyon for sunset.

12. Bright Angel Trail to Indian Garden

For a more challenging hike in Grand Canyon National Park, the Bright Angel Trail is a popular day hike to Indian Garden. The trail starts at Grand Canyon Village and goes to the Colorado River. The Bright Angel Trailhead can be accessed at Bright Angel Lodge. It is a steep descent, and what goes down must go up, so be prepared for the ascent and give yourself plenty of time. You can also hop on a guided hike of the area if you want to hike with other people.

Indian Garden is a good turnaround point if you are doing a day hike, but you can continue on to other trails from the Bright Angel Trail. If you feel that you have time, you can continue on to Plateau Point, but be warned it is a 14-mile round trip (22 km) hike, and going up is much tougher than going down. Full-day hikes are not recommended for long hikes. I know we couldn’t finish this in a day.

13. Yavapai Geology Museum

The Yavapai Geology Museum is just 2 miles (3.2 km) from Grand Canyon Village. The National Park Service offers daily programs but the most interesting thing to do here is to walk the Trail of Time. The Trail of Time is a loop from the Yavapai Geology Museum.

Take this trail back to town as you walk along the path you’ll learn of the Grand Canyon’s Geological history through a geology timeline where you’ll work your way back in time 1 million years. This interactive timeline has signage and maps, rocks, and viewpoints with every 1 meter representing 1 million years.

Where to Stay in Grand Canyon Village

Staying in the village is pricey and the hotels have been around for decades. So expect to pay a lot without the luxuries of your usual stays. But remember, this is a national park and you cannot beat the location. If you work a couple of nights here into your budget, you can really explore all of the best things to do on the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

• El Tovar Hotel – This historic hotel opened in 1905. It’s an expensive hotel and you are paying for the history and location. Prices at the Grand Canyon are expensive because of the location and this is as pricey as it gets.
• Yavapai Lodge – This lodge is a more affordable option but it is about a mile from (1.6 km) the South Rim

Other hotels in the village include Thunderbird Lodge, Bright Angel Lodge, Kachina Lodge and Maswick Lodge.

14. Bright Angel Campground

If you want to take on a multi-day hike you will continue along the Bright Angel trail to the Bright Angel Campground north of the Colorado River. To get to the campground you cross the Colorado River via the Bright Angel suspension bridge. The early planners of the Grand Canyon thought of it all!

This trail is also used by mules so be sure to give them the right of way. Mules ride at both the South Rim and North Rim. And when the mules are passing make sure you stay on the cliff side and give plenty of room.

When on a mule ride you’ll head to Phantom Ranch which is a historic ranch located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon and offers cabins and dorm rooms. Book well in advance as there is a lottery system in place for reservations. Details of Phantom Ranch here.

15. Desert View Drive

Desert View Drive is a scenic drive that runs along the South Rim of the park from the East Entrance to the Grand Canyon Village. You can also get to it from Tusayan. Desert View Drive is a 23-mile (37 km) scenic road between Grand Canyon Village and Desert View and unlike Hermit Road, it is open to all vehicles so you can drive yourself. There are several stops along the way so you can take a half day or so to explore.

Head north from the South Entrance along Highway 64 and then turn right away from Grand Canyon Village onto Desert View Drive for the best Grand Canyon sunset locations.

There are several viewpoints and pullouts including Duck on a Rock, Grandview Point, and Moran Point. As you continue east past the Tusayan Museum you’ll come to the Desert View Watchtower. We suggest if you are doing a road trip through the area this Guided Audio Tour that is on your phone is a great addition so you don’t miss the most important highlights of the area.

Grand Canyon East Entrance

The East Entrance of the Grand Canyon is the least visited entrance, but it provides access to some of the most remote and spectacular areas of the park. Here are some of the things you can do from the East Entrance of the Grand Canyon.

16. Tusayan Museum

Indigenous culture is very important to Dave and me. When visiting national parks in Canada or the United States, chances are it is on ancestral land. And the Tusayan Ruins and Museum is located just outside the park at Ancestral Puebloan ruins.

They offer a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Puebloan people who lived in the area over 800 years ago.

There are artifacts dating back 2000-4000 years. This is a sacred land and while visiting the museum, you can hike the Tusayan Ruin Trail to a kiva used by Ancestral Puebloans.

17. Desert View Watchtower

The Desert View Watchtower is a 70-foot-tall stone tower located on the South Rim near the East Entrance. It was built in the 1930s and offers panoramic views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape.

Hike the Tanner Trail: The Tanner Trail is a challenging 9.6-mile round-trip hike with an elevation change of over 5,000 feet, and it offers stunning views of the canyon and the river.

18. Little Colorado River Overlook

One of the unique things to do near the Grand Canyon is to stop at the Little Colorado River Overlook. Located near the East Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park, it is not actually in the park. But it is a good stop when driving between the north rim and south rim of the Grand Canyon. It’s a great place to go for a hike.

This is a gorge carved by the Little Colorado River, a tributary of the Colorado River. If this is little, Mother Nature has a cute sense of humor.

North Rim

We have made it to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon offers a more secluded and less crowded experience than the more popular South Rim. There are still north rim services, but they are limited in the winter.

When visiting the North Rim, you will still find visitor centers with exhibits and park rangers and you can still do guided hikes and take part in ranger programs. Check the park schedule for upcoming programs.

19. North Kaibab Trail to the North Rim

If you want to hike to the north rim from the South Rim, Bright Angel Trail, it meets up with the North Kaibab Trail where you can hike all the way to the North Rim.

We have heard that avid hikers compare the Grand Canyon’s rim-to-rim hike to climbing Mt. Whitney. Regarding Transportation, don’t worry, there are shuttle buses at the Grand Canyon between both the South Rim and North Rim.

The Phantom Ranch is also down here on the Colorado River and you may choose to stay here instead of the Bright Angel Campground. This is the classic rim-to-rim hike and if you want bragging rights when visiting the Grand Canyon, this is it!

There are many options for getting around the Grand Canyon with Shuttle Busses, taxis, guided tours, bicycle rentals, and car rentals. Details for shuttles here.

20. Scenic Drives

The north rim has some beautiful scenic byways. Cape Royal Road or Point Imperial Drive offers beautiful views of the Canyon.

The Cape Royal Road is a 23-mile scenic drive that runs along the North Rim and offers some of the most spectacular views of the canyon. The road ends at Cape Royal, which is a popular viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the canyon.

Point Imperial Drive is a 12-mile scenic drive that runs from the North Rim Entrance Station to Point Imperial, which is the highest point on the North Rim. The drive offers stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding forest.

There are other scenic dives including The North Rim Parkway, Jacob Lake to North Rim, and the Vermilion Cliffs Scenic Drive

21. North Rim Campground

If you want to do some camping, the North Rim has several campgrounds, including the North Rim Campground. North Rim Campground is also open for winter camping with a permit.

While enjoying the more remote destination, look up to the stars. Stargazing: The North Rim is one of the best places in the country for stargazing, with little light pollution and clear skies. Take a blanket and some snacks and enjoy the night sky.

22. Whitewater Rafting

It’s a dream to raft the Colorado River and if you have the time there are several tours that offer rafting in the Grand Canyon. Many start at the upper canyon and end at the Phantom Ranch. So be warned, you will have to hike out of the Grand Canyon for nearly 10 miles (16 km) up along the Bright Angel Trail to the South Rim.

Tours range from a day trip to multiday trips lasting up to 5 to 8 days. Depending on how long you want to be on the water, there’s something for everyone.

If you want to plan a Whitewater Rafting trip in advance, check out this Full Day Whitewater Rafting tour. It is a self-drive tour to the start. Take a road trip to Peach Springs, Arizona to Hualapai Lodge. Where you’ll meet your guide and take a 40-mile (64 km) journey through the canyon.

If you are staying in Vegas which is just over 2 hours from the Grand Canyon and want to experience Grand Canyon national park in all its glory, this full day whitewater rafting tour takes you on a whitewater adventure along the Colorado River. This Grand Canyon Tour is led by a Native American Hualapai Guide along class 3 and 5 rapids.

Grand Canyon West Rim

The West Rim of the Grand Canyon is a section of the canyon that is located on the Hualapai People. It is managed separately from Grand Canyon National Park. It is often referred to as the Grand Canyon West. This is the portion of the Grand Canyon that most people visit from Las Vegas. There is a separate entrance fee for entering Grand Canyon West. So our national parks pass will not work here. You can grab your entry tickets beforehand here to save some time.

23. Grand Canyon SkyWalk

If you are heading to the West Rim, or driving from Las Vegas, chances are you’ll be stopping at the West Rim. The Grand Canyon Skywalk is just 2 hours from Las Vegas making it a popular day trip. Grand Canyon West is not part of Grand Canyon National Park but there are still plenty of things to see and do.

This horseshoe-shaped glass bridge is a fun way to get those incredible vistas of the Grand Canyon from the West Canyon Rim. It is 10 feet wide and reaches 70 feet over a 4000-foot drop. I don’t care if people aren’t fans, I love these types of glass floor adventures that take your breath away.

24. Helicopter Tours

Taking a Helicopter Flight is one of the most popular things to do in Grand Canyon West. If you are in Vegas – Book this helicopter tour from Las Vegas. On this flight, you will fly 3,500 feet below the rim of the Grand Canyon and land near the Colorado River in Hualapai Territory where you’ll enjoy champagne as you overlook the Colorado River and the majestic Grand Canyon.

Take this Grand Canyon Tour from Vegas – Explore the West Rim on this day trip from Vegas where you’ll enjoy views of Eagle Point, Guano Point, and Hualapai Ranch. Plus the option to experience the world-famous Skywalk, experience rim views, and rim walk.

25. Go Zip Lining

The zipline consists of two parallel lines that are each 1,100 feet long and stretch across a side canyon of the Grand Canyon. Riders are secured in a harness and attached to the zipline, and then they launch from a tower and soar across the canyon at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

26. Guano Point

Guano Point is a scenic overlook that offers stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the point for even more panoramic views. The overlook is named after the guano deposits that were mined in the area in the early 20th century.

One of the unique features of Guano Point is the old mining equipment that is scattered throughout the area. Visitors can explore the old mining buildings and equipment, which provide a glimpse into the history of the area.

At the top of Guano Point, visitors will find several viewing areas that provide 360-degree views of the canyon and the surrounding area. There is also a restaurant and gift shop at the point, where visitors can grab a bite to eat or pick up souvenirs.

27. Grand Canyon Railway

If you are looking for a unique way to experience the Grand Canyon, the Grand Canyon Railway leaves from Williams, Arizona, and offers a different perspective to see the Grand Canyon. In true American fashion, there are performers and cowboys reenacting life in the wild west complete with a great train robbery.

Towns Near the Grand Canyon

You don’t need to stay in the Grand Canyon to enjoy it. There are plenty of towns near Grand Canyon National Park that have full amenities and attractions in their own right.

Williams Arizona

Williams Arizona is an awesome stop on Route 66 that truly feels frozen in time. The train leaves from here. The Grand Canyon Railway has been taking passengers to the Grand Canyon since 1902 and you’ll get to explore just as the early explorers of the Grand Canyon did. The train lets you off at the Grand Canyon depot where you can enjoy the Grand Canyon’s south rim.

Many people combine a stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams. Williams is a great place to stay near the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Tusayan

Tusayan is located at the south entrance of the Grand Canyon and is another good place to make a base when visiting Grand Canyon. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants, you can book Grand Canyon Tours here and you can visit the National Geographic Visitor Center where you can watch an IMAX Movie. This is a fun thing to do when you need a break with the whole family.

What You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon

Much of the Grand Canyon is within a national park and has an entrance fee. The cost to enter the Grand Canyon is $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle, for a seven-day pass. An annual park pass costs $70.

The Grand Canyon is a national park located in the state of Arizona. It was designated a National Park in 1919. It is a whopping one mile deep, 277 miles long, and 18 miles wide. (1600 meters, 445 km, 29 km)

The Grand Canyon can be enjoyed from the North Rim, West Rim, and Grand Canyon East but the South Rim is the most visited and has the most attractions, accommodations, and viewpoints. Make sure to read our in-depth post Facts About The Grand Canyon, for more information.

Getting Around the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Shuttle Bus

If hiking isn’t your thing don’t worry, the Grand Canyon Shuttle bus offers free shuttles along the south rim. There are different shuttle buses: The Orange Route (Kaibab Rim Eastbound) shuttle begins at Grand Canyon Visitor Center with service to the South Kaibab Trailhead, Yaki Point, and Pipe Creek Overlook. There is also a Hiker’s Express shuttle that will take you out early in the morning. You can take the bus to different stops and pick is up every 15 minutes.

When to go to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a year-round destination with summer (obviously) being the peak season. This is when prices are highest, but it is also crowded and hot. Like many travel destinations around the world, shoulder season is the best time to visit for better rates, fewer crowds, and less traffic.

Plan for Spring and Fall as the weather is still quite pleasant. It’s actually great for hiking in the fall with dry conditions and cooler temperatures.

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is only seasonal. It is closed in the winter and open in the spring from mid-May to mid-October.

Where to Stay in Grand Canyon National Park

We have an entire article dedicated to Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon at the Best Grand Canyon accommodations. This comprehensive guide will help you decide which accommodation works for you.

Trailer Village RV Park: For RVers The Trailer Village RV Park takes vehicles up to 50 feet long. It’s located within the park and the good news is the bus line stops right in front of it. Read our How to Live In An RV on $2000 Per Month

There are several campgrounds in Grand Canyon National Park that make for a more affordable option. Hikers will want to look into Bright Angel Campground and Indian Garden Campground. Camping at the village includes Mather Campground. See our Ultimate Camping Gear List

Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon

When staying at the Grand Canyon the best place to stay is at the Grand Canyon Village which we mentioned above. But it is pricey and you don’t get what you pay for accommodation-wise, but it is within walking distance to the south rim and all of the Grand Canyon viewpoints and attractions. However, to save money we suggest staying out of the Grand Canyon Village (unless you decide to splurge for a night or two). these are a few suggestions but we recommend checking out our full detailed article on Where to Stay At The Grand Canyon for a more in-depth breakdown.

South Entrance

The South Entrance of the Grand Canyon is just 13 minutes from Grand Canyon Village. There are plenty of restaurants, and a visitor center and it is close to the airport.

Williams Arizona

Grand Canyon Railway Hotel was designed to resemble the century-old train depot and is a fun place for families to hop aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. You can have your luggage forwarded to the Grand Canyon so you can take the railway one-way to the South Rim of the Canyon.

If you are looking for a cabin away from it all, check out Elk Meadow Cottage located 1 hour from the Grand Canyon. It borders the Kaibab National Forest and is 20 minutes from Flagstaff. Sleeps 8.

Why Should You Visit the Grand Canyon?

And these are some of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon and Grand Canyon National Park. This is definitely one of those bucket list destinations so be sure to add it to your road trip in America or simply create an itinerary around an entire stay at Grand Canyon National Park.

We were pretty excited to revisit Skagway on our Holland America Cruise. My parent’s joined us on our Alaskan cruise and we couldn’t wait to show them the beauty of the Alaskan countryside. Nestled in the heart of Alaska’s rugged wilderness, Skagway has captivated travelers for more than a century. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and pristine forests, Skagway offers visitors the chance to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth. There are plenty of things to do in Skagway from exploring its Klondike history to experiencing its pristine beauty.

Top Things to Do in Skagway, Alaska

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, Skagway has something to offer for everyone. So come and discover the magic of Skagway and experience the true spirit of the Last Frontier. Skagway, Alaska is a popular destination for cruise ships and there are plenty of things to do in this Gold Rush town. Here are some of the best things to do in Skagway from a cruise ship.

If you want to explore Skagway on your own, get this guided audio tour that takes you on a walk along the wooden boardwalks of downtown as you listen to stories from stampeders to gunslingers.

1. White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

The number one thing to do in Skagway is to hop aboard the White Pass Yukon Railway. The train picks up passengers right at the cruise ship terminal where you will hop aboard this historic narrow gauge railroad to retrace the route that so many gold prospectors have taken before you.

This historic narrow-gauge railroad runs from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, in Canada. The railway was built during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 and was a crucial transportation route for miners traveling to the gold fields. Today, visitors can get a taste of what life was like by taking a journey that includes tight curves and steep grades through the mountains to the summit of White Pass.

The White Pass Rail has been designated as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers

The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway (WP&YR) runs between Skagway and The Yukon, Canada. Construction of the railway began in 1898 and was completed in just over two years, an impressive feat given the rugged terrain and harsh climate of the region.

The railway covers a distance of 110 miles (177 km) and includes 20 miles (32 km) of track that curves and climbs steeply through the mountains.

The WP&YR played a crucial role in the development of the region, carrying supplies, equipment, and people to the gold fields and connecting isolated communities. After the gold rush ended, the railway continued to operate as a freight and passenger service and became an important link between Alaska and the Yukon.

The tour takes you out and back giving you ample opportunity to see all of the sights along the way.

2. White Pass and Yukon Suspension Bridge

Add another country onto your Alaskan Cruise and cross over into Canada to see the White Pass and Yukon Suspension Bridge.

While the bridge is not located directly in Skagway, it is Many visitors to Skagway choose to visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge as part of a day trip or excursion, as it is relatively close by and can be easily accessed by car or tour bus.

It is a pedestrian bridge that spans 200 feet (61 meters) across the roaring rapids of the Tutshi River, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. You can book this tour that will take you from Skagway to the Yukon and Suspension Bridge. It includes stops at local landmarks and viewpoints along the Klondike Highway route and your guide will be keeping an eye out for wildlife.

3. Skagway City Tour and White Pass Summit

This highly rated tour takes you on a guided tour to learn about the Klondike Gold Rush and to see the glaciers, rivers and forests that surround Skagway. It combines highlights of the best of Skagway.

You’ll start with a historic city tour before heading out to see waterfalls and glaciers while keeping an eye out for bears, moose, and sheep. Other stops include the Gold Rush Cemetary, Reid Falls Brackets Toll Road, Moor Bridge Overlook and the Welcome to Alaska sign.

4. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

Downtown Skagway is designated as The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is an area dedicated to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 when thousands of people traveled to the Klondike region of the Yukon in Canada in search of gold.

It was established in 1976 to commemorate the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s and to preserve the history and cultural heritage of the region.

During the gold rush, Skagway served as the main gateway to the gold fields of the Yukon. Tens of thousands of prospectors traveled through Skagway on their way to the gold fields, creating a thriving community of traders, entrepreneurs, and adventurers.

Some of the attractions and activities available at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park include the park’s main visitor center which is located in Skagway and features exhibits, films, and interactive displays that explore the history and culture of the region. In town, the Skagway Historic District, which includes more than 100 historic buildings and structures.

Much of Alaska’s history was built on the gold rush, so taking a stroll through the Skagway Historic District takes you back in time with its historic buildings that were the starting point for gold rush seekers setting out to tackle the Chilkoot Trail. Learn about the history of the gold rush in Skagway and explore the exhibits and artifacts at the visitor center. This guided audio tour is a great way to experience at your own pace.

5. Chilkoot Trail Hike

The Chilkoot Trail was a key route used by gold rush prospectors in the late 1800s to travel between the coast and the gold fields of the Yukon. Today, the trail is a popular hiking destination for those seeking a unique and challenging wilderness experience.

The full hike is a challenging route that spans approximately 33 miles (53 km) between Skagway, Alaska, and Bennett, British Columbia. It takes 3-5 days to complete and involves river crossings, mountain ridges and dense forests. Along the way, hikers will also encounter historic landmarks, such as the remains of old campsites and cabins used by the gold rush prospectors.

The full Chilkoot Trail hike is a challenging and remote wilderness experience that requires good physical fitness and hiking experience. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry appropriate gear and supplies, as there are no services or facilities along the trail. Permits are required for the hike and can be obtained through Parks Canada or the National Park Service in Skagway.

Taste of the Chilkoot Trail

If you are visiting on a cruise ship, you won’t be able to hike the entire trail, but you can enjoy some of it to get a taste of what early gold rush seekers went through. You can take a guided hike on the historic Chilkoot Trail and see the stunning scenery and wildlife of the region.

The Chilkoot Pass hike is a challenging and rewarding day hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The hike covers approximately 8 miles (13 km) round trip and takes around 6-8 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers will pass through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to alpine meadows and rocky ridges.

Taking a horse trek is an ideal way to experience the Chilkoot and White Pass trails. You’ll ride through Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park with a tour of Skagway before setting off on the trails by horseback. Get more details here.

6. Ocean Rafting

If you are looking for some adrenaline while in Skagway, book an ocean rafting adventure. Be prepared to get wet as you’ll borrow goggles, gloves, and a waterproof suit to tour the Lynn Canal on a high-speed boat as. you ride the waves.

Skagway’s location on the Lynn Canal, which is the longest and deepest fjord in North America, makes it an ideal destination for ocean rafting.

Ocean rafting tours are led by experienced guides who provide safety gear, instruction, and commentary on the local flora and fauna. The rafts used are designed to be stable and maneuverable, allowing passengers to feel the thrill of bouncing over waves and navigating through rapids.

The two-hour thrill ride makes multiple stops to view wildlife with endless photo opportunities. Just make sure to have a waterproof camera. Get More Details Here

7. Gold Rush Cemetery

One of the top stops on most Skagway tours is The Gold Rush Cemetery. (Including this one) The cemetery was established during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s and is the final resting place of many of the people who came to Skagway seeking their fortune in the gold fields.

Like the Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris or the No 1 Cemetery in New Orleans, this cemetery has some notable residents. The famous author Jack London has his final resting place in the cemetery. He wrote The Call of the Wild and White Fan and spend time in Skagway during the gold rush. We saw Jack London’s house on the Yukon portion of our tour. Read more at The Best Things to Do in Dawson City.

The most interesting story goes to Frank Reid and Jefferson “Soapy” Smith. Frank Reid was a customs inspector and Soapy Smith was a notorious criminal who reigned over Skagway during the Klondike Gold Rush. He ran a sophisticated operation that included gambling, prostitution, and protection rackets.

Smith and Reid were in a shootout in 1898 and Soapy Smith both were killed. Smith died that day and Reid died just a couple of weeks later. Jefferson “Soapy” Smith Jr.: Soapy Smith’s brother, who also played a role in his criminal enterprise, is buried in the cemetery next to his brother

The cemetery contains more than 100 graves, many of which are marked with simple wooden crosses or headstones that reflect the harsh and often tragic conditions of life in the gold rush era.

8. Heli Hike and Rail

There is nothing better than seeing Alaska from above and one of the best things to do in Alaska is to get up in the air for a bird’s eye view of glaciers. During our first visit to Alaska, we only did a portion of the White Pass Rail picking up halfway through the trip because we were finishing up a helicopter tour and hike.

Our heli, hike, and rail tour took us over breathtaking glaciers followed by a hike to see the flora and fauna of the national forest before meeting up with the train while hitching a ride back to Skagway. It was the ultimate three tours in one.

9. Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

I know you have been on a ship a lot and may not have a boat tour at the top of your list, but cruise ships are huge, and sometimes getting on a more intimate boat tour can be exciting.

Relax on a 60-minute boat ride through North America’s deepest fjord to the glacier and see if you can spot local wildlife like whales, bald eagles, sea lions, and mountain goats. Then, take a short hike to the provided canoes and paddle out to Davidson Glacier. We have paddled in front of glaciers and there is nothing more mesmerizing. Get more details here.

10. Skagway Fish Company

I’ll never forget our first trip to Alaska with Princess Cruises on a Twitter me at Sea trip in 2010. Our host told us to order as much king crab as possible because one, it is the best in Alaska, and two, how often do we get to have a big company pick up the tab? Whenever we have gone to Alaska since, we always sample fresh seafood, such as Alaskan king crab and salmon. When visiting Ketchikan this is the place to do it.

It is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving fresh and delicious seafood for more than 20 years.

One of the Skagway Fish Company’s most popular dishes is their fish and chips, which features crispy, golden-brown batter, and tender, flaky fish. Other favorites include their salmon chowder and crab cakes.

11. Skagway Brewing Company

Sometimes when you get off the ship, all you really want to do is hit a local pub and soak in the atmosphere. The Skagway Brewing Company Enjoy offers locally brewed beer and pub fare.

The brewery features a wide selection of craft beers, many of which are brewed on-site using traditional brewing techniques and local ingredients. Some of the brewery’s most popular beers include the Spruce Tip Blonde Ale, the Chilkoot Trail IPA, and the Prospector Pale Ale.

It was founded in 2007 by a group of local residents who shared a passion for brewing beer and creating a community gathering place.

The brewery’s historic building was originally a hotel and brothel during the Klondike Gold Rush and has been beautifully restored but it has kept the history alive with vintage photos and memorabilia from Skagway’s gold rush era.

12. Red Onion Saloon

The Red Onion Saloon is a historic brothel turned museum and bar. It was originally built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush and served as a brothel for the miners who flocked to the area in search of gold.

Head inside to relive its glory days enjoying a pint the same way that gold seekers did more than a century ago. Visitors can take a guided tour of the brothel museum located on the upper floors of the building as well.

13. Skagway Yukon Husky Camp

No visit to Alaska would be complete without delving into its sled dog heritage. Sled dogs played an important role in the life of settlers in Alaska and they continue to thrive and run in events such as the annual Iditarod.

This highly rated tour takes you on a half day trip up the Klondike Highway from Skagway where you’ll visit a sled dogging camp. Drive along the Klondike Highway and admire the scenic forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Views of the White Pass Railroad evoke a nostalgic mood in the shadow of glacier-covered mountains.

You’ll visit the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and the Yukon. Details here

14. Skagway Streetcar Tour

Take a guided tour of Skagway on a vintage streetcar and learn about the town’s history and architecture. If you are looking for a relaxing way to visit Skagway, we saw Streetcars going around town.

15. Skagway E-Bike Tour

We love ebiking. It’s a great way to get some exercise without needing to work too hard. You can rent e-bikes in downtown Skagway, but why not take a guided tour that includes some of the best things to do in Skagway?

You’ll start by riding through the historic streets and then head out to pan for gold where you’ll learn about the Klondike History and visit the Skagway Museum. It also stops at Skagway attractions like the Gold Rush Cemetery, and Lower Reid Falls.

It’s the most fun you’ll have on two wheels in Skagway. Check out more details here.

16. Arctic Brotherhood Hall

One of the more interesting buildings in Skagway is the Arctic Brotherhood Hall. It certainly stands out among the other facades in town.

It was built in 1899 by the Arctic Brotherhood, a fraternal organization of miners and other pioneers who came to Alaska during the Klondike Gold Rush. The organization was founded in 1899 with the goal of providing camaraderie and mutual support among the men who were working in the harsh conditions of the Arctic.

The interior of the Arctic Brotherhood Hall is equally impressive, with a large meeting hall on the second floor that is decorated with painted murals and other artwork depicting scenes from Alaskan history and mythology. The first floor of the building originally housed a saloon and a gambling hall, but these were later converted into retail spaces and offices.

It has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is considered one of the most significant examples of Alaskan frontier architecture in the state.

17. Days of 98 Show

The Days of 98 Show has been running in Alaska since 1923 and we had a rip-roaring good time. The show tells the story of the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, which brought thousands of fortune seekers to the area in search of riches.

The show is performed in the historic Eagles Hall in Skagway, which was built in 1899 and has been home to the show since its inception.

One of the highlights of the show is a recreation of the famous “stampedes” that occurred during the Gold Rush when thousands of prospectors would race to stake their claims on newly discovered gold fields. The audience is also treated to lively renditions of popular songs from the era, such as “The Yukon Queen” and “The Klondike Gold Rush”.

The Days of ’98 Show is considered one of the longest-running and most popular live shows in Alaska.

18. See the Salmon Run

Chances. are you’ll be on an Alaskan cruise during the salmon run. When visiting Ketchikan, make your way to the Pullen Creek Shoreline Park to witness thousands of salmon swimming to spawn.

The salmon run typically occurs from July through September, with peak viewing times in August and early September. Visitors to Pullen Creek Shoreline Park can watch the salmon swimming upstream from the creek, leaping over rocks and rapids in their journey to their spawning grounds.

Visitors can also learn about the biology and life cycle of the fish through interpretive displays and educational programs at the park. The park features a boardwalk that runs along the creek, providing easy access for visitors to observe the fish up close.

19. ZipLining

If you’ve never tried ziplining, what are you waiting for? You’re on an Alaskan Cruise tour, this is the ultimate bucket list and time to step out of your comfort zone. Grizzly Falls Zipline has 11 zip lines over the rainforest with four suspension bridges to cross.

The four-hour adventure is a half thrill and half eco tour taking in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The adventure begins before you even start riding a giant Unimog vehicle up the steep mountain road. It’s one of the top-rated tours in Ketchikan.

Photo of Soapy Smith by Notyourbroom, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons