Category: Travel

When you think of Dubrovnik, you envision an old town that offers discreet luxury. This image is relatively accurate. Dubrovnik’s medieval walls rising from the Adriatic Sea cut such a beautiful sight that they attract everyone from tourists to Hollywood producers. There are luxury hotels in Dubrovnik hidden by old city walls and walking distance from the best restaurants and iconic attractions – like the Dubrovnik cable car. Dubrovnik is perfect for combining seaside relaxation with cultural sightseeing. And the sheer amount of luxury hotels makes it a dreamy five-star destination.

In this guide, we’ll cover the ultimate luxury hotels in Dubrovnik. Whether you want one of the leading hotels in the city center or an outskirt boutique hotel opening onto a pebble beach, Dubrovnik is overflowing with luxury.

Best Areas to Stay in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Before we get into the best luxury hotels in Dubrovnik, it’s vital to get a grasp of the city layout. We already have a complete guide on where to stay in Dubrovnik, area by area. However, we will quickly summarise to provide you with a quick overview. Dubrovnik is best explained by splitting it into four sections that encompass six neighborhoods: Old Town, Pile, Ploce, Gruz, Lapad, or Babin Kuk. If you scroll to the bottom of this post, we have a clear breakdown of each neighborhood.

1. Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

Regarding facilities, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace is one of the most impressive Dubrovnik luxury hotels. This Lapad-based luxury hotel has a private beach and a scuba diving center. Hotel Dubrovnik Palace also has an outdoor swimming pool, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and wellness center with a steam room. Seriously, any hotel with its own scuba diving center deserves its five stars – and the facilities at Hotel Dubrovnik are what bagged it its spot on our guide. The laidback beach vibe of Lapad is just the cherry on top.

All guest rooms are furnished with earthy color palettes and minimalistic decor. Guests get a private balcony in every room choice, most of which have Elaphite Islands views. And even when you do wish to venture out of the hotel, the bus to the Old Town leaves from directly outside. Hotel Dubrovnik Palace is top of our list of the best luxury hotels in Dubrovnik.

2. Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is our vote for one of the best hotels in Dubrovnik for a light, airy aesthetic. This boutique hotel has a nautical theme, with white, coastal-inspired furnishings throughout each room. This design scheme makes Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik one of the city’s best hotels for guests wanting a serene-feeling hotel. Plus, given that the boutique hotel is set on a sea cliff above Miramare Bay, the nautical theme is fitting to look over the ocean. Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is luxurious without trying too hard – which we love.

Facilities are also worth discussing for this luxe boutique hotel. Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik has an indoor pool, access to a pebble beach, a wine bar with over 180 wines, and an a la carte restaurant. It also firmly ticks the spa and wellness center boxes, providing a gym and spa with a sauna. Located between the Old Town and Pile, it is ideally situated for some peace and quiet yet within walking distance of the city walls.

3. Royal Palm Hotel

Royal Palm Hotel is the most modern of the leading hotels in Dubrovnik. The hotel features white and bright guest rooms with air conditioning and floor-to-ceiling windows in most rooms. Royal Palm Hotel is located in the Babin Kuk neighborhood – amongst the beach life and more laidback Dubrovnik way of living. However, it retains a sense of inner-city hospitality, which we liked.

Breakfast is available each morning at the a la carte restaurant. The wellness center at Royal Palm Hotel is a generous size. You can book in for spa treatments and there’s a fitness center to challenge yourself to a workout. The best part of its facilities is the huge sun terrace – ideal for embracing your inner lizard and reclining on a lounger with a good book. From Royal Palm Hotel’s sun terrace, you have views over the Adriatic Sea and a wine bar to treat yourself to an alcoholic beverage. It has all the modern comforts but the laidback beach locale as well. A blissful compromise for the modern luxury hotel seeker.

4. Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is one of our top luxury hotels in Dubrovnik. This luxury hotel looks nothing short of regal. Hotel Imperial Dubrovnik juts out from miles of forest and smaller orange-roofed buildings. The historic five-star hotel is a multi-story masterpiece dating back to 1897. It is located on the outskirts of Ploce. The trendy, just-out-of-grasp location is a quieter alternative to the frantic tourist mecca of the Old Town – and just a short walk from major attractions. Its iconic appeal is why we couldn’t miss out on adding the Hilton Imperial to our guide to the best luxury hotels.

You won’t be surprised to learn that Hilton Imperial has fantastic facilities. The lobby bar, lounge, and terrace have views over the city walls and afternoon tea for anyone with a sweet tooth. A spa and wellness center is a given for luxury like this, as is an indoor pool. The 19th-century architectural style has been maintained throughout each room, and spending a day relaxing in Hilton Imperial is beautiful.

5. Villa Dubrovnik

Villa Dubrovnik is an exceptional boutique hotel just outside Ploce – the trendy outer neighborhood we discussed earlier. The glitzy white hotel straddles a cliff that half hangs over the ocean. As far as scenic locations go, Villa Dubrovnik pulls the top trump. It is no wonder that it is ranked as one of Dubrovnik’s best boutique hotels. We were struck by its location, aesthetic, and other vital aspects – like the complimentary car transfers to the Old Town. The summer transfers overcome the only negative of staying in Ploce, meaning you get easy access to the Old Town and peace and quiet.

Inside Villa Dubrovnik, an onsite restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine and breakfast. A stunning library room and lounge have comfy furnishings like sink-into-the-fabric-style armchairs. The hotel uses a fantastic balance of indoor and outdoor space too. For instance, featuring an indoor pool that extends into an outdoor terrace with parasols and sun beds. Guest rooms have private terraces and balconies.

6. Hotel Excelsior

Nothing is standard about Hotel Excelsior. It is as much a local landmark as it is one of the best luxury hotels in Dubrovnik. Full of original artwork and severely elegant, sleek furnishings, Hotel Excelsior is a beautiful place to stay. Hotel Excelsior is a short walk from the old city center. Located smack bang in the middle of Ploce, it’s suitably trendy and ideal if you are looking for an alternative-style luxury hotel experience in Dubrovnik.

Hotel Excelsior is one of the top five-star hotels within walking distance of the Old Town. The hotel has two onsite restaurants and a piano bar. Unfortunately, there are no outdoor pools at Hotel Excelsior. But honestly, Banje Beach (a rock and concrete beach) is so close by that you don’t need one. Besides, with a freshwater indoor pool and spa area with a hammam and hot tubs – it really is a small price. Its location and facilities are what won us over.

7. Boutique Hotel Stari Grad

Boutique Hotel Stari Grad is one of those boutique hotels that take the plush furnishings route. Everything is indulgent – even down to the hydromassage showers and location in the center of the Old Town. Boutique Hotel Stari Grad is the best option for a boutique hotel within the old city walls. Its rooftop terrace restaurant is the perfect inner-city perch to “wow” your way through an evening of fine dining with a stunning historical backdrop. The hotel perfectly blends new and trendy designs and a timeless, historic setting. Needless to say, we love that.

Only eight guest rooms are available at this property. It books up quickly and has an intimate atmosphere, so if it catches your eye, make a reservation early. All the guest room options are tastefully decorated with cutting-edge but comfortable decor, but bag the junior suite with a balcony if possible. The outdoor space and private view are worth every penny. And if you want a boutique option within the Old Town, Boutique Hotel Stari Grad is easily one of the top hotels located in the city center.

8. The Pucic Palace

Another oldie but goldie, The Pucic Palace is a stunning baroque building off the Stradun Promenade in the absolute center of the Old Town. You can get any closer to the city center than this, and the history of the 18th-century building is a serious draw for anyone interested in old-world Dubrovnik. On foot, you are less than 60 seconds away from Dubrovnik Cathedral – an unheard luxury as far as most hotels in Dubrovnik go. The location and historical status of the hotel are nothing short of enchanting. We felt compelled to add it to this guide.

Room choices range from annex rooms with exposed beams to suites with private balconies and whirlpool tubs. For those chasing a more self-catered experience, there are also apartment choices with kitchens. The Pucic Palace has onsite restaurants that – quite literally – spill out onto the street too. You can indulge in al fresco dining in the square or head to the terrace restaurant for a vantage point. While there are no swimming pools, the fact Banje Beach is just a six-minute walk away is a lovely sweetener. The Pucic Palace guests even get complimentary beach towels and sun loungers.

9. Hotel More

Ready for some real excitement? Hotel More has a cave bar. You read that right – a cave with an actual bar inside. The cave bar is Dubrovnik’s quirkiest drinking hole and should definitely feature on a bar crawl through the city. We’ve got to admit that the cave bar initially caught our eye just for the novelty factor. However, Hotel More is just as beautiful in its own right. Built into the slopes that flank the Adriatic Sea, Hotel More overlooks the ocean and is just 2.2 miles from the Old Town. With quiet elegance, it embodies that calming luxury that balances the busyness of the Dubrovnik city center.

The rooms at Hotel More range from classic singles to deluxe suites with sea-view terraces. Family rooms are also available, which is well worth noting if you are a family traveling to Dubrovnik. Some of the more luxe rooms have whirlpool tubs, too, if you fancy splurging on extra luxuries. Hotel More already has an outdoor pool, gym, and fully-equipped spa, though – so you won’t miss out if not. And since it’s located in Lapad, there are plenty of nearby beaches for a relaxing dip.

10. Boutique Hotel Kazbek

Boutique Hotel Kazbek was once the home of a local noble family. The property dates back to the 16th century, and its this history that holds most of its allure. While Boutique Hotel Kazbek has been renovated, you can still see the influence of nobility in its architectural design. And there are indulgent nods throughout the property – like king beds in every guest room. It is an impressive building to admire. It certainly has an atmosphere for guests wanting a luxury hotel that’ll leave an impression.

It isn’t just noble looks either; Boutique Hotel Kazbek has a sauna and outdoor pool for guest enjoyment. It is also located in Gruz Bay – the only hotel in this guide to be here. If you plan boat trips to the surrounding islands, staying in Gruz Bay is brilliant. You have access to the Old Town in just a six-minute drive and doorstep access to the port. Gruz Bay is convenient and pretty glitzy with all the big white yachts and sailboats.

11. Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel

Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel is the megalodon of luxury hotels in Dubrovnik. The five-star property explodes in rows and rows of private terraces. It is the perfect choice for an apartment-style experience. Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel is located in the quiet coastal neighborhood of Babin Kuk with a private beach. It is the sort of high-end hotel that feels hidden away from the chaos of other tourists. A self-contained little hospitality enigma with a pretty pebble beach. We like its secluded location in Babin Kuk.

Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel’s standard rooms include breakfast and a terrace or balcony with privacy screens. The hotel also offers superior suites and other more extravagant room choices. And in terms of facilities, there’s a wellness center and a gym – two ticks for the fitness-conscious guests.

12. Grand Villa Argentina

A five-star hotel sitting on a cliff is the perfect recipe for a luxury hotel in Dubrovnik. Grand Villa Argentina is a beautiful property built to overlook the sea. Grand Villa Argentina’s best feature is the outdoor saltwater pool, with sweeping ocean views and Lokrum Island. With private beach access, you might also have two outdoor pools, seeing as you can just hop straight into the sea. Aside from beautiful swimming opportunities, there is a spa with a Finnish sauna, hot tubs, and a gym. Grand Villa Argentina squeezed onto our list for its recreational facilities and poolside views.

Its rooms have contemporary décor – comfortable and spacious. The majority of rooms have sea views, and some have balconies. Set in the trendy neighborhood of Ploce, you won’t spend much time in your room. You are just a 20-minute walk from the Old Town and Dubrovnik’s attractions. And Banje Beach is almost literally on your doorstep.

13. Bota Palace

Bota Palace seems robbed of its fifth star. As a boutique hotel, it has oodles of charisma. It has a brilliant sense of style and a wicked location, from the exposed brick walls to the all-white annex rooms. You can gaze out at Stradun (the main street in the famed Old Town) from almost every window. Chic and sleek are the most well-deserved adjectives for Bota Palace’s interior. Still, the location is also a perfect ode to Dubronik’s history. And to fuel all that sightseeing, Bota Palace offers bed and breakfast services, meaning complimentary breakfast each morning.

In terms of guest rooms, you can opt for standard king rooms or apartment-style rooms with kitchens for a self-catered experience. Each room comes with drink-making facilities. The decor is fresh and designed with the modern trend seeker in mind. The two major brownie points are the effortless luxury of this property and its valuable location.

14. Villa Orsula

Villa Orsula is beautiful. People tend to throw around the term ‘old money aesthetic’, but in Villa Orsula’s case, it is truly an apt description. The hotel is all built from chunky old stone, cutting a traditionally elegant picture against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. Villa Orsula has extensive sun gardens overlooked by stone terraces and archways. And at night, low lighting illuminates the plant-covered stone property for the ultimate romantic appeal. Villa Orsula’s good looks won us over in a heartbeat.

Even the standard rooms at Villa Orsula feature peaceful gardens or sublime sea views. It greatly emphasizes visual luxuries, which is a nice touch. The hotel also has a private beach. While no pool is onsite, guests can access an indoor and outdoor pool at the adjoining luxury hotels. Like most leading hotels in Dubrovnik, it has a high-quality spa, too, for a bit of extra day-to-day luxury. Located in trendy Ploce, it has easy access to the Old Town and beaches. There’s a complimentary airport shuttle too, which is always welcome after a tiring flight.

FAQs: Luxury Hotels in Dubrovnik

The most luxurious place in Croatia is Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik has some of the best five-star hotels in the whole country and an exclusive collection of beaches. The seafood is sublime, and the historic remains of the old city provide a beautiful backdrop for al fresco wining and dining. It is also the ideal place to go island hopping. Dubrovnik has many high-end yachts and sailing boats for a luxury island hopping experience.

Which area of Dubrovnik is best to stay in?

The Old Town is the best area of Dubrovnik to stay in for an old-world atmosphere and luxury hospitality. It is where you’ll find the best high-end restaurants and the most historical views of the old city walls.

The Old Town is the classic city center of Dubrovnik. We are talking about cobbles, old town walls, and cultural sightseeing. The Old Town is where most tours depart from and is ideal for first-time visitors who want that Game of Thrones-style aesthetic in Dubrovnik.

These two regions are sandwiched on either side of the Old Town. In fact, these neighborhoods are called after the original gate names when Dubrovnik was a functional walled city. Pile or Ploce is a solid compromise on the big crowds and overpriced (dare we say it) restaurants in the Old Town. You get easy access to the Old Town and all Dubrovnik’s things to do, but a more relaxed experience.

Gruz is the old harbor. It is a reasonably accessible neighborhood to appreciate Dubrovnik’s main attractions. However, its highlight is the number of day trips to beautiful islands. If you plan to island-hop Croatia, Gruz is an excellent base.

Lapad and Babin Kuk are laidback beach areas outside the slightly hectic Old Town. One major issue with staying inside the Old Town walls is that you don’t get beach access. Many of the luxury hotels in these neighborhoods have a private beach or at least almost doorstep access to the ocean.

Is it expensive to stay in Dubrovnik?

Staying in Dubrovnik hotels is expensive. The city has a high-end reputation and caters to a wealthy crowd with its luxury hotels.

Who owns Royal Resort Dubrovnik?

Dr Ciril Zovko owns the Royal Resort Dubrovnik. Dr. Ciril owns the entire Royal Hotels & Resort chain.

To Conclude

Luxury hotels in Dubrovnik are a heavenly investment in happiness. And as for the city itself, it is easily one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its city walls and sublime sea views seem practically made for luxury hotels. You’ll have an incredible time picking a luxury hotel in Dubrovnik.

To venture further than Dubrovnik’s Lapad Peninsular, consider these best things to do in Croatia. Croatia has beautiful places, islands, cities, and cultural attractions. Don’t limit yourself to a single city if you have more than a week.

Lima is a vibrant city with rich Peruvian history, tourist attractions, a historical center, and a strong sense of local culture. The capital city of Peru lies along the Pacific Ocean at the top of South America. It is part of the Costa Verde, aka the Green Coast. Lima is a fantastic place for a holiday packed with exciting things to do. You’ll be busy from sunrise to way past sundown. You can visit attractions like the Government Palace, admire street art, sample Peruvian cuisine at excellent restaurants, and take a day trip to Machu Picchu.

Top Things to Do in Lima, Peru

We’ve certainly established that Lima is not short of attractions. However, this guide will cover the best things to do in Lima. Let’s dive straight into the most exciting things that Lima has to offer.

1. Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is the main square at the heart of Lima’s historic center. This expansive square has colonial buildings, palaces, horse-drawn carriages, and white pedestrian crossings you see on postcards. Some call Plaza de Armas the ‘birthplace of Lima’. The square still carries an immense significance and is part of Lima’s identity – despite only one fountain remaining from its earlier days. The plaza was built in Francisco Pizarro’s 16th-century settlement and is a marker of Spanish colonialism.

Plaza de Armas remains open 24/7 as a fully functioning public place. Most walking tours either include Plaza de Armas or start the tour at the square itself, as it is such a convenient and iconic meeting place. Whether you visit Plaza de Armas to snap a few pictures at the famed location or visit some of the colonial buildings around the square is up to you. But Plaza de Armas should definitely be on your Lima itinerary. Visiting is free unless you book a walking tour; even then, Lima offers many free walking tours.

• Address: Plaza Central Lima, Lima, 15001, Peru

2. Andres del Castillo Museum

Andres del Castillo Museum is an entire space dedicated to minerals and geology. It’s hailed as the world’s first Peruvian mineral museum and showcases the beauty of the minerals while highlighting Peru’s close links to the mining industry. The museum has two extra sections – one dedicated to Chancay ceramic art and one to pre-1532 textiles. Andres del Castillo Museum has a regal interior design, making the experience even better. Each artifact is tastefully displayed, some in minimalistic glass boxes, others on artistic pedestals, and others as wall decor.

Andres del Castillo Museum is open seven days a week between 10 am and 5 pm. It is located right next to Plaza San Martin. It is in the center of Lima, so it is easily squeezed into a short itinerary. Entering costs less than £3 too, which is a complete bargain.

• Address: Jiron de la Union, 1030, Lima, 15001

3. Plaza San Martin

Plaza San Martin is another one of Lima’s decorative, historical squares. A monument of Jose de San Martin stands in the center of the square, surrounded by patches of green space and benches that are perfect for a quiet coffee and takeaway lunch. Around the square’s perimeter is a selection of excellent restaurants offering al fresco dining with street views. The square has a real ceremonial feeling and is a remarkable tribute to Peruvian independence.

The square is free to visit and open 24/7 as a public space. However, we recommend visiting during the day for safety and budgeting for at least a coffee. This plaza is a brilliant place to sit down and soak up the atmosphere with minimal effort – which is best done with a nice drink. The square is next to Lima’s busiest shopping streets, so it is an ideal lunch spot to relax and unwind.

Address: Plaza San Martin, Av. Nicolas de Pierola, 994, Lima 15001, Peru

4. Natural History Museum

Peru has fascinating natural history, and the Natural History Museum has been celebrating and showcasing it since 1918. Visitors will see exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to geological findings. Small but mighty, this museum has a diverse display of exhibits, artifacts, and experiences – including a lovely outdoor area with plant displays. The Natural History Museum is especially well-suited to families with young children and native Spanish speakers.

General admission tickets cost less than $3, and Lima’s museum is a great budget-friendly activity. It is open Tuesday to Friday between 10 am and 3 pm and is centrally located in the heart of Lima. You are just a stone’s throw from the Magic Water Show and National Stadium.

• Address: Av. Gral. Antonio Alvarez de Arenales, 1256, Jesus Maria, 15072, Peru

5. Street Art in Barranco

You’ll find street art all over Lima. The artwork covers all themes and topics, from religious art to political and creative statements. Typical street art in Lima is colorful and bold – but otherwise, you’ll find it diverse and full of unique and thought-provoking pieces.

The best area to see street art in Lima is Barranco, a neighborhood known for being hip and trendy. Unsurprisingly, Barranco is home to many of Lima’s creative, and you’ll find resident artists, photographers, and musicians everywhere. Head to Restaurante Javier to see Barranco’s most famous street art area near the Puente de Suspiros. The artwork is free to visit and open 24 hours a day, although you should keep your visits to daylight hours.

• Address: Jiron Mariscal Ramon Castilla 181, Barranco, 15063, Peru

6. Take a Free Walking Tour

Free walking tours are a staple activity for any budget traveler. A free walking tour in Lima is a great way to learn more about the city through local perspective and expertise and saves money. You embark on a guided tour of Lima’s most exciting areas, including the historic center, downtown Lima, or a lesser-visited neighborhood. Often, tours include a cultural experience, like pisco sour tasting. Walking tours are a brilliant way of grounding yourself in a new city, getting local insight, and meeting new people – which is especially good for solo travelers.

A walking tour is one of the best things to do in Lima. While they are advertised as free, we recommend bringing some money to tip at the end of the tour. Most tours welcome tips, which is a good way of supporting a generous and insightful tourist activity. Besides, it is still a budget-friendly activity either way.

7. National Museum of Peru

Keep your eyes peeled for this attraction, as the National Museum of Peru is hot on the scene. Construction has been ongoing throughout 2021 and 2022, and the upcoming museum’s official opening is highly anticipated. The museum is being constructed in a partially urban, partially desert region just outside the city center, hoping to signify a cultural significance to Peruvian citizens. The museum will educate guests on Andean and Amazonian early culture with displays, information, and immersive experiences. It is set to become one of the greatest celebrations of Peruvian culture and will hold over 8,000 artifacts.

The museum will open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10 am and 4:30 pm. As of December 2022, it is currently accepting visitors for a handful of completed exhibits. It is worth checking to see if you can visit – even if you are visiting before it officially opens.

• Address: Antigua Panamericana Sur 80, Lima 15841, Peru

8. Government Palace

Government Palace is a stunning spot on the edge of Lima’s Main Square. It is the residence of the Peruvian Prime Minister and a symbol of grandeur in Lima’s historic center. The uniformed guards and heavily barred gates create a formidable and traditional image. While visitors can’t enter the palace, you can watch the changing of the guards each day. It starts at 11:45 am, ends at 12:15 pm, and even involves changing horses. If you are visiting the palace, time it during this period for the most entertaining experience.

The palace is free to visit (from behind the railings) and should definitely make your itinerary. You can visit 24 hours every day but, as we covered, it is most interesting to visit at the time of the changing of the guards. The palace is also easy to add to a visit to Plaza de Armas.

• Address: Jiron de la Union s/n, Lima, 15001, Peru

9. Huaca Pucllana Site Museum

Visiting the Huaca Pucllana Site Museum is one of the best archaeological things to do in Lima. Huaca Pucllana Site Museum contains the ancient ruins of a clay and adobe pyramid, which dates back to the Lima Culture period between 200 and 700 AD. The ruins themselves have an adjoining museum and guided tour experience. Visitors can tour the site, learning more about the ruin’s rich history and Lima’s social dynamics and culture during its period.

The Huaca Pucllana Site Museum tour lasts approximately an hour. You are guided around the ruins, fascinating modern recreations of ancient scenes, and valuable relics inside the museum. There is even a flora and fauna section with native animals like alpacas. The museum is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday between 9 am and 4:15 pm. General tickets cost just $4.

• Address: Calle. Gral. Borgono cuadra 8, Miraflores, 15074, Peru

10. Basilica and Convent of San Francisco

Visiting the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco is one of the most exciting things to do in Lima. The church is a striking yellow and is considered one of Lima’s most beautiful buildings. If you are interested in religion or architecture, definitely add it to your list of bucket list-worthy attractions. Visitors can admire the church from its exterior or enter and take a thirty-minute tour, included in their admission cost.

San Francisco church is not just famed for its beauty and distinctive yellow color. The church also contains 70,000 human remains in its catacombs. Its catacomb corridors are lined with bones, which makes for a pretty eerie tour experience. San Francisco’s catacombs are frequently claimed to be the largest and best preserved in South America – a weighty claim. The church opens every day between 9 am and 8:15 pm and costs $3 for entry.

• Address: Jr. Lampa, Lima, 15001, Peru

11. Puente de los Suspiros

Puente de Los Suspiros is a stunning red-painted wooden bridge built in 1876. It is nicknamed the ‘bridge of sighs’ after the Puente de Los Suspiros in Venice. It is a rather humble piece of architecture but iconic nonetheless. By the mid-1900s, the bridge was in daily use by fishermen making their way down to the sea and quickly caught on as an artistically inspiring and romantic place to linger. Writers, poets, and lovers became common visitors at the bridge. And now, tourists join the crowds.

Visiting is entirely free, and the bridge remains open 24/7 as a public place. It is located on the outskirts of Lima in Barranco. It is well combined with a visit to the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo and the many beaches of Lima’s coastal region.

• Address: Jr. Batallon, Ayacucho 271, Barranco, 15063, Peru

12. National Stadium

The National Stadium of Peru (Estadio Nacional) is a must-visit for sports fans. It is one of the best things to do in Lima for football fans and is home to Peru’s national football team. You can watch a Peruvian league game and soak up the sporting atmosphere for a few hours. Tickets cost between $3 and $13, depending on which stand you choose to sit in. And, if there isn’t a game running, you can take one of the stadium tours to appreciate the interior, stadium, and sporting history.

There is also a lengthy concert schedule at the stadium, with performing artists such as Coldplay, Guns N’ Roses, and Harry Styles. Even if you aren’t a football fan, it’s worth checking to see if there are any upcoming music events you’d like to visit the stadium to attend.

• Address: C. Jose Diaz s/n, Lima, 15046, Peru

13. Kennedy Park

Kennedy Park is a beautiful urban park dedicated to President John F. Kennedy. Situated in the uptown district of Miraflores, Kennedy Park is a precious section of green space in a residential area. It has a sense of community and constant buzz, with street vendors selling street food and souvenirs, performers, and artists. It is a creative, entrepreneurial, and social space – plus, it has many resident cats.

Kennedy Park is free to visit and is open daily between 7 am and 7 pm. Bring some loose change to treat yourself to a drink and a bite to eat. Bring a bit extra if you want to purchase any souvenirs, including local Peruvian handicrafts. It is all part of the Kennedy Park experience.

• Address: Diagonal, Miraflores, 15074, Peru

14. Museo de Arte de Lima

The Museum of Art of Lima is dedicated to Peruvian and pre-Colombian artwork. It is situated in central Lima in the Parque de la Exposicion. The museum is set in a palace-like building and contains a range of exhibits. You can admire art that includes tapestries and textile works, ceramics and sculptures, and paintings. The dedication to displaying early artwork makes the gallery just as intriguing from a historical perspective. Visiting the Museo de Arte de Lima is one of the best things to do in Lima if you are an art or history enthusiast.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 am until 6 pm, apart from Saturdays when it closes early at 5 pm. Tickets cost $8 per standard adult entrance, and you can easily spend two hours inside the museum, so it is good value for money. Keep this museum in mind on rainy days as it is one of the best indoor activities in Lima and is just a short walk from Lima’s Main Square and the city center.

• Address: Parque de la Exposicion, Av.9 de Diciembre 125, Lima, Peru

15. Pisco Sour

Get ready to try Peru’s national cocktail. A pisco sour is a citrus-flavored, refreshing alcoholic beverage. Its key ingredients include the base liquor pisco, a brandy distilled from fermented Peruvian grapes. In this exceptional cocktail, you’ll also find lemon or lime juice, sugar syrup, and occasionally egg white. Pisco sours are enjoyed by many locals and are always a firm hit with tourists, and you can visit a bar or club to try one for yourself.

You can pay around $7 for a pisco sour, depending on where you go to try one. It is common sense, though; a small local bar on the outskirts of Lima will be much cheaper than a flashy club in downtown Lima. The Gran Hotel Bolivar, Hotel Antigua Miraflores, the Country Club, and La Mar are popular places to try a pisco sour.

16. Larco Museum

The Larco Museum is one of the most interesting historical things to do in Lima. Once a residential mansion, the elegant building now houses ancient Peruvian artifacts. The collection is vast, with over 30,000 pottery artifacts ranging from pre-Colombian erotic art to functional jugs and other handmade tools. The Larco Museum aims to provide a unique insight into the Andean worldview and has an impressive display of artifacts to fulfill its mission.

Tickets to the Larco Museum cost $9. The museum is open seven days a week between 10 am and 7 pm, apart from essential holiday dates like Christmas and New Year. You can purchase tickets in advance or on arrival, and the Larco Museum is one of the most straightforward tourist attractions to visit in Lima.

• Address: Av. Simon Boliviar, 1515, Pueblo Libre, Lima 21, Peru

17. Fuente de la Fantasia

Fuente de la Fantasia is a 120-meter-long water fountain on the magic water circuit. Each evening, visitors can gather to watch the Magic Water Show. Jets propel the water from the fountain into the air, illuminated by different colors with music in the background. Other fountains are dotted around the park, so you can wander between each fountain during the show. The choreography of water, music, and light will entertain those of all ages, and visiting is suitable for families or solo adults. Music ranges from global classics like ABBA songs to local Peruvian classics. The Magic Water Show is one of the best things to do in Lima to appreciate it as a modern city.

Fuente de la Fantasia is free to visit during the day and costs $1 if you want to watch the Magic Water Fountain Show. The fountain is located within the Parque de la Reserva. It is combined with other attractions like the surrounding theaters or the National Stadium of Peru.

• Address: Lima 15046, Peru

18. Muninet Parque La Muralla

Muninet Parque La Muralla is an urban park on the outskirts of Lima city center. It is a family-friendly attraction favored by local residents for its scenic walkways and kids’ train. However, from a tourist perspective, the most striking part of the park is its sections of the ancient walls of Lima.

The areas of the protected wall date back to the 17th century and are fascinating to stop by and take a quick look at. Muninet Parque La Muralla is ideal for those interested in old architecture and Lima’s ancient history and those who want a park with a bit more oomph.

Muninet Parque La Muralla is free to enter and opens daily from 6:45 am until 6 pm. It is just a short walk from the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Lima Main Square, and Chinatown. It is an excellent outdoor attraction for your visit for a break in green space.

• Address: Jiron Amazonas, Lima 15001, Peru

19. Craft Beer Tasting

Going craft beer tasting is one of the best things to do in Lima. You can book a beer-tasting or pub crawl experience or head out independently. The bar staff and brewery workers are always happy to give you some information. Craft beer might seem like a strange addition to Lima culture, but the city is packed with microbreweries. Barranco and the area around Urb Cercado de Lima are the best if you fancy going craft beer bar hopping. And the best bars for craft beer tasting include Cerveceria Del Valle Sagrado, Lupulo Draft Beer, BarBarian Bonilla 108, and Jaya Brew Company.

Budget around $3-$9, depending on what beer you choose. You should be able to taste a few beers for $20 and have enough for some snacks. Entering the bars and breweries themselves is free.

20. Place of Memory, Tolerance and Social Inclusion

For a dark insight into Peruvian history, the Place of Memory, Tolerance, and Social Inclusion is a fascinating museum in Lima. The museum covers the 1980-2000 conflict between the Peruvian government and terrorist groups. This period was plagued by political upheavals and civil war and is a tricky part of history not as commonly discussed outside of Peru. The mixture of visual exhibits, interactive videos, and artifacts opens your eyes to a likely unfamiliar part of history. You can expect a sensitively told story of tragedy and violence.

The Place of Memory, Tolerance, and Social Inclusion is free for all visitors. It is a great budget-friendly thing to do in Lima, especially for history and culture enthusiasts. The museum is open from 10 am until 5 pm all days, closing only on Mondays.

• Address: Bajada, Calle San Martin, 151, Miraflores, Peru

21. Parque del Amor

Parque del Amor is a creatively designed landscaped park with an iconic kissing sculpture and incredible ocean views. Apart from the main sculpture attraction, you’ll find many smaller statues and photogenic features like mosaic walls. Parque del Amor is – as you may have guessed – dedicated to love, and it is a romantic spot to unwind, whether as a couple or solo. You can enjoy beautiful views of the city and the Pacific Ocean, love-themed artwork, and even place a lock on specially designated railings.

Parque del Amor is free to visit, so add it to your list of budget-friendly things to do in Lima. The park is easily combined with a beach day since it is located alongside Lima’s coastline. And once you’ve enjoyed the beaches and park, you can entertain yourself by exploring Miraflores, and all the upscale neighborhood has to offer.

• Address: Av. Mal. Cisneros, Miraflores, 15074, Peru

You’ve seen plenty of shopping centers in your time. But have you seen a shopping center built into a cliff? Larcomar Shopping Center has a unique setting, and you can indulge in retail therapy with ocean views. The shopping center has everything from supermarkets to eateries, bars, and independent clothing stores. There’s a selection of pop-up shops on the ground level. Then you can take the elevator underground to find a broader range of shops and hospitality venues again.

The shopping center is open daily from 6 am until 10 pm and is completely free to enter. How much you spend there is your choice. You’ll find cheap trinkets, individually priced fresh fruit and vegetables, and high-end designer stores. Budget a little extra if the sounds of a movie theater or bowling appeal to you.

• Address: Mal. de la Reserve 610, Miraflores, 15074, Peru

23. Palomino Islands

There are tons of things to do in Lima itself. Still, the city is also perfectly positioned for fantastic day trips. The Palomino Islands are one of those brilliant day trips. The islands form an archipelago renowned for sea lions and seabird watching.

For those interested in wildlife, the islands are a wonderful, remote place from Lima. You can take guided tours from Lima to the islands, many of which include the opportunity to swim with sea lions – an unforgettable experience. You’ll catch a 1.5-hour boat to reach the islands, enjoying stunning coastal views and potential wildlife sightings.

Tours to the Palomino Islands from Lima start at around $60 and rise to a maximum of $130. It is worth booking in advance to get the most budget-friendly deals. These tours include the boat transfer to the islands and typically allow you to swim with sea lions and spot penguins and other seabirds on arrival. Some tours include hotel pick up services.

• Address: Islas Palomino, Callao, Peru

24. Go Surfing

Lima is known for its great waves and is coined by many as the surfing capital of Peru. The city is set just inland from the Pacific Ocean. Lima’s outer neighborhoods hug the coastline and offer surfing opportunities galore. Miraflores is a trendy beachfront neighborhood and upscale destination with busy, sociable beaches. There are quieter spots, too, for advanced surfers looking for independent surf time. With year-round swells, off-peak surf trips are another answer for avoiding crowds. Surfboard rentals average around $10 per day, which is nice and cost-effective.

Looking for a lesson? Group lessons are priced at around $30, and private lessons are priced at about $60. There is plenty of flexibility with this, so shop around, and you’ll be sure to snag a cheaper deal. Miraflores is a surf lesson hotspot. You can always head down to watch the surfers and enquire about lessons while you are there.

25. Bike around Lima

We’ve talked about walking tours, but what about bike tours? A bike tour is a great way to explore Lima. It is a little quicker than on foot, yet still allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and fresh air in a way that is less effective than on bus tours. It is also nice to stay active while traveling; a bit of exercise can work wonders for your mood.

Lima is full of bike paths, and cycling is scenic for viewing the city and its different neighborhoods. Organized bike tours range from $25 to $40 when booked online, typically running in the afternoon as a half-day activity. Of course, you could always embark on your own bike ride around Lima. Just rent a bike and download offline Google Maps or purchase a local SIM card to figure out directions without a local guide.

Trip to Machu Picchu

Who hasn’t heard of Machu Picchu? This ancient city was once a booming inhabitation during the reign of the Inca Empire. A designated UNESCO world heritage site, Machu Picchu quickly rose to worldwide fame in modern years as a dream adventure destination. People either visit as a day trip or a multi-day expedition, hiking their way up to the mountain top base.

So, where does Lima come into this? If you are visiting the Peruvian capital, you’d want to take a detour to one of the country’s most popular attractions. You’ll likely be disappointed that Machu Picchu is so far from Lima. But visiting is still possible. If this sounds appealing, the easiest way is to add a flight to Cusco at the end of your trip to Lima. You can take a scenic 3.5-hour train from Cusco to Aqua Calientes, climbing the mountain to reach the ancient city.

Alternatively, you can book a multi-day tour package from Lima to Machu Picchu. Typically, these tours are planned as a loop, starting and ending in Lima but transporting you to Cusco first and then to the ancient city. Some tours even include hotel pick-up. You can check out our guide on planning a trip to Machu Picchu here.

Lima FAQs

Now that we’ve covered the best things to do in Lima let’s look at some common FAQs. These are all the essentials that you need to know before your visit.

How to get to Lima

The easiest way to get to Lima is to fly, especially if traveling internationally. Jorge Chavez International Airport has connections worldwide, so you can easily find a direct flight to Lima. If you fly from some regions of Europe, New Zealand, Australia, or Africa, you will probably have one stopover. You can take a 30-minute taxi from the airport, rent a car, or take the bus to Lima city center.

If you are feeling adventurous or are already in a South American country, you can take the bus across the Peruvian border to get to Lima. Many places (like Ecuador and Chile) have shuttle services crossing the Peruvian border. The Peruvian borders are safe, but land border crossings are notoriously hectic and involve lengthy driving times, so settle in for a long adventure.

For those able to splash out on a cruise, set cruises stop at Lima’s port, Callao. Traveling to Lima slowly and enjoying the journey by incorporating different stops along the way might be tempting.

Getting around Lima

Getting around Lima is a breeze. The historical center and downtown are somewhat walkable for those with a moderate fitness level. Cycling is also a popular way of getting around, so consider hiring bikes.

You can use Lima’s bus system when you want to go further afield and aren’t in a rush. The system connects the city on four different routes. It is a great way to visit outer neighborhoods like Barranco cheaply. The yellow school bus style is generally safer than the white van style. The white vans have a bad reputation for pickpocketers, so if you catch one, just be wary of your pockets. The flat rate for a bus ride in Lima is very cheap. $0.40 is a fair price for a ride.

Lima also has a metro system that links 12 districts. It is a bit more expensive (a $0.69 flat rate for each ride) than the bus, but not massively. If you are in a rush, the metro is a quicker bet for only a fraction more of the price. You purchase a re-chargeable card for $1.40, which allows you to enter and exit turnstiles.

Finally, if you get stuck, you can always treat yourself to a taxi, Uber, or Cabify. The latter are more recommendable than privately owned taxis, both from a safety and value for money point of view. Uber and Cabify have set ride rates that aren’t based on whether you are a tourist. Plus, the journeys are tracked for extra safety.

Best time to visit Lima

The best period to visit Peru is during summer, which is between December and April. However, be warned that summer is also Peru’s rainiest period, so bring your umbrella and some waterproofs.

We recommend April the most since it has the driest of the ‘wet period’ weather and still has high temperatures. April has better visibility too, which is handy for hiking and enjoying viewpoints to their maximum. And, if you need any more persuading, April is also a shoulder season – meaning cheaper deals and more bang for your buck.

Where to stay in Lima

So, where should you stay in Lima? You’ll need a great base to have the best trip – regardless of all the fantastic things to do in Lima. These are our top suggestions, with a winner for each budget level.

Budget: Pariwana Hostel Lima

Pariwana Hostel Lima is a sociable hostel that is perfect for those on a budget. The hostel is located in the center of Miraflores, one of Lima’s best neighborhoods. Guests can choose from a range of mixed-sex, single-gender, and private rooms. You get a complimentary each morning too, which helps cut costs on eating out. You can enjoy the ping pong table, terrace, and TV lounge when you aren’t exploring Lima.

Mid-Range: The Lot Boutique Hotel

The Lot Boutique Hotel offers elegant modern rooms in a laid-back setting. If you fancy a trendy boutique stay, this mid-range option is ideal for you. The complimentary breakfast and wifi help to reduce unnecessary spending and saves you on meal costs. There are a few luxury extras like an on-site bar, cafe, and terrace.

Luxury: Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel, Lima

Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel Lima, is a five-star luxury property in Lima’s most exclusive neighborhood. The property has two on-site restaurants and a bar. Its outdoor pool has stunning views over the ocean and is the ultimate picture of a romantic stay in Peru.

Where to eat in Lima

Trying delicious food in Peruvian cuisine is one of the best things to do in Lima. Lima is known for its excellent Peruvian cuisine, so take advantage of its best restaurants and dishes. Whether you want fresh seafood or a breakfast dish, these restaurants are unmissable on your Lima itinerary.

1. La Mar Cevicheria Peruana

La Mar Cevicheria Peruana is one of the best local restaurants for trying ceviche – a raw fish marinated in a lime sauce that is Peru’s national dish. Located right next to the coast, La Mar Cevicheria Peruana has a beautiful location, dishes, and a tasty cocktail menu.

2. Mercado 28 Miraflores

Mercado 28 Miraflores is the place for a delicious meal if you want street food. The indoor market offers food from around the world at modest rates and is a great place to grab some street food. Don’t know what you fancy? It genuinely doesn’t matter with this much selection.

3. Astrid y Gaston

Astrid y Gaston is a great local restaurant if you fancy fine dining. It serves local dishes in a luxurious style, specializing in regional seafood and meat dishes. With meticulous plate presentation and impeccable service, Astrid y Gaston is the perfect spot for some upmarket indulgence.

To Conclude

There are so many amazing things to do in Lima. Whether you take a guided tour or head out solo, wander indoors in galleries or go to sea searching for islands, you’ll have so much fun in Lima. Continuing your journey? Check out our guide on the best things to do in Peru and why you should visit Peru. And either way, these ultimate travel tips for Peru will come in handy. Have a fantastic time in Lima.

A visit to Custer State Park is ticking off one of the best places in the USA. It is not only filled with beautiful views, but it is also a total wildlife destination. You’ll spot everything from prairie dogs and bighorn sheep to cute white-tailed deer, and mule deer. But the star attraction is definitely its herds of bison. Situated in the Black Hills of South Dakota, the 71,000 acres state park is also incredible for hiking trails and scenic drives. If you love outdoor activities and spectacular views will love these best things to do in Custer State Park. I know we did.

Top Things to Do in Custer State Park

This guide has amazingly memorable things to do in Custer State Park. Whether you opt to head to Stockade Lake or Center Lake, Cathedral Spires Trail, or Wildlife Loop Road, we’ve got top-tier activities lined up. Are you ready to start planning? Let’s go.

Book this private tour to see the top South Dakota attractions in one day. Let your personal guide pick you up at your hotel to see three South Dakota landmarks including Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Book it here.  

1. Sylvan Lake Shore Trail

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail is one of the most popular things to do in Custer State Park. The hiking trail laps Sylvan Lake, the prettiest of Custer State Park’s lakes. With massive gray rock formations and woodland that spills right up to the shoreline in parts, Sylvan Lake is easily recognizable.

Sylvan Lake is so beautiful that it caught the eye of movie producers and was used as a set in the Nicolas Cage movie ‘National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets’. (Watch it on Amazon) You can take these views in for yourself with a quick hike on the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail.

The Sylvan Lake Shore Trail takes 40-60 minutes to complete and is a total breeze to hike. The route is flat and easy to navigate – suitable for families with small children or tourists wanting a quick hiking trail. There are many natural stopping points around the trail as well. Sylvan Lake has a spot where you can sunbathe with a beach towel. And the shallow shoreline is perfect for paddling to cool off from the hike. At Sylvan Lake, visitors also boat and fish. If you want a luxury treat after your walk, Sylvan Lake Lodge is available for fine dining.

South Dakota is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the USA, book this hot air balloon flight to see the Black Hills from above. Enjoy a champagne toast and experience South Dakota from the sky. Details here.

2. Center Lake

Center Lake is where to visit to avoid crowds, not join them. While Sylvan Lake is its flashy neighbor, this lake is the girl next door. The lake has its own campground – Center Lake Campground – where you can camp or enjoy recreational facilities. And the lake is set scenically amidst Ponderosa pines. Visiting Center Lake is one of the best things to do in Custer State Park: sit down and enjoy lake views in peace and quiet.

Since this lake is a little smaller than most other lakes in Custer State Park, its water warms up much faster. This means that you can head for a mid-morning swim quite easily. It is ideal for those wanting a quick dip to start their day, as the water is warm and the crowds are almost non-existent.

Unlike Sylvan Lake, Center Lake is better for its atmosphere than any of its activities. You can still walk around the lake and enjoy the water, but its main draw is its peaceful atmosphere. Bring a picnic and a book and curl up by the shoreline.

3. Iron Mountain Road

Iron Mountain Road is one of the best scenic drives in the state park. The road has 314 dramatic switchback turns and passes through 3 tunnels. Iron Mountain Road is fascinating to drive, and this little road trip is one of the best things to do in Custer State Park. You’ll want to hop out every few minutes to snap pictures. It is the sort of road you can imagine drone footage of – with curved switchbacks that look like something straight out of a travel magazine.

Iron Mountain Road takes around 60 minutes to drive. However, we suggest allowing a couple of hours so you can stop as many times as you want. Iron Mountain Road is one of the most famous in the USA, let alone the Black Hills. Make the most of the photogenic sections and hop out to snap photos. Make sure to stop at Mount Rushmore National Memorial as well, which is located along this road.

Logistically you’ll likely use Iron Mountain Road to access some of your planned attractions. But double-check, and make time to drive this exciting stretch of road if not. It is worth noting that this road is more arduous with long vehicles like RVs because of all the tight turns. If you decide to venture along this road with such a vehicle, allow double the time as a precaution so you can take it nice and steady.

Pick up this guided audio driving tour as you self drive through the Black Hills and Mt Rushmore. Explore at your own pace with an easy-to-use, downloadable app. If you need to rent a car, check out RentalCars.com to compare car rental prices.

4. Cathedral Spires Trail

Cathedral Spires Trail is one of the best things to do in Custer State Park if you want a challenging hike. The trail is 1.5 miles one way and takes around an hour to complete. Despite its short length, it is one of the most strenuous hiking trails and should only be attempted by hikers with proper attire. Cathedral Spires Trail is definitely a late spring and summer hike as well since snowfall renders the trail too slippery.

The hike starts by approaching the stunning Cathedral Spire rock formations, just into the sky en masse in pointed pinnacles. As you get closer, the terrain then switches. You make your way up the rocks via short scrambles. There are sections of unmarked trails where you climb up the rock faces.

Cathedral Spires Trail’s main draw is the scrambles’ excitement and beautiful views. Custer State Park is known for its classic views – like the rock formations around Sylvan Lake. Cathedral Spires is another one of the park’s best views. The rocky pinnacles are a photogenic phenomenon and are perfect for sightseeing.

Book this day trip to the Black Hills that includes and entire day of sightseeing. Take in the views of its rock formations, canyons and lakes as you learn about the areas rich history including Custer’s expedition to the area in 1874. See more details here.

5. Wildlife Loop Road

It is impossible not to love Wildlife Loop Road. It is the best of Custer State Park’s scenic drives for wildlife sightings and takes between an hour and two hours to drive. The road loops through grasslands and passes herds and herds of bison, mule deer, and elk. Pack a pair of binoculars, too, because you can often catch sightings of lurking prairie dogs, coyotes, and overhead eagles and hawks. Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park’s very own safari experience. Book this jeep safari in advance.

The road is only 18 miles long. However, there is a speed limit of 25 miles per hour because of the number of animals that stray alongside and on the road. Trust us, it is in your best interests to abide by this, as a rogue bison can damage your vehicle. We suggest bringing snacks and refreshments and keeping it steady to get the most out of Wildlife Loop Road.

As a side note, you can book a guided safari experience if you don’t fancy the drive. You head out in 4WD jeeps and are guaranteed to get up and close to some of the most impressive animals in Custer State Park. These jeep tours are like the African safari experiences and a fun way to venture out around Custer State Park. With open sides, you have unobstructed views of the surrounding wildlife, and you have the joy of sitting back and enjoying the drive as a passenger. More details here.

6. Little Devils Tower Trail

Little Devils Tower is one of the best hikes in the park. For experienced hikers, don’t hesitate to add it to your Custer State Park list of things to do. The 3.8 miles out and back trail is moderately challenging and takes around 3 hours to complete. The elevation gain is the trickiest part, as you gain approximately 700 feet, mainly in the hike’s final quarter. You scramble up rocks, looking for the blue-painted triangles that signal the correct path. And at the top, you get 360-degree views over the Black Hills and surrounding scenery.

The top of Little Devils Tower pokes out as a gray mound from the top of the Ponderosa pine trees. It is the ultimate vantage point and stands at 2,121 meters in height. However, it is also a gorgeous natural landmark close to Black Elk Peak and Cathedral Spires. If they feel ambitious, many people tackle two of the three significant landmarks together or even all three at once. When you reach the summit, you’ll get views of the other two, so keep an eye out.

Little Devil is one of the best hiking trails to avoid crowds. It is much less busy than Cathedral Spires Trail, so you won’t be hiking in a monotonous line of other hikers. Still, we suggest walking Little Devil in the early morning to beat the midday temperatures. If you plan to tackle Little Devil with Cathedral Spires or Black Elk Peak, set off as early as possible to give yourself adequate time.

7. Legion Lake

Legion Lake is a sleepy retreat that coined its name from a former American Legion post. The resort lake is packed with cabins and often quite cheesy activities. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy Legion Lake, though, and you can just pop in to enjoy the friendly vibe and water activities. Legion Lake General Store also sells fishing licenses and park passes – something to consider if you are nearby and need to tick off acquiring these essential documents.

Legion Lake has the Custer State Park’s trademark grey rock formations stretching right into the lake’s waters. Surrounded by pines, it is a shaded and peaceful spot blessed with a lot of natural beauty. It is an excellent place to visit and relax, rather than heading to Sylvan Lake and frog-marching around on the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy Legion Lake from the water. Alternatively, camp on one of its sandy shores with a beach towel or check out Legion Lake Lodge.

8. Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway

Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway is the ultimate road trip and one of the top things to do in Custer State Park. The 70-mile route encompasses a chunk of Custer State Park’s other scenic drives, including Iron Mountain and Needles Highway. If you want to combine these drives into one experience, we recommend noting down Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway.

The byway passes visitor centers, the Needles, Mount Rushmore, and many wildlife – including mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Curling your way through grey rock formations that spike into the road and force bizarre turns and quirky tunnels, driving the byway is a memorable activity in Custer State Park. It can be driven in 3-4 hours, but honestly, allow yourself the whole day to enjoy it. The last thing you want is to feel rushed.

Stay alert while driving this scenic byway. A slowing motorist could act suddenly because of animals or an unexpected turn ahead. The wacky series of curves and tunnels also demand a high concentration level. Consider switching between drivers if you think you’ll be tired.

9. Needles Highway

Needles Highway is another incredible one of the scenic drives in Custer State Park. It is most famous for the Needles Eye Tunnel – a tiny hole in a granite spire that allows you to narrowly squeeze through in a vehicle. It is a seemingly impossible feat until you emerge from the other side. You can find hilarious videos of people trying to fit various vehicles through the tunnel online.

Apart from the Needles Eye Tunnel, though, the Needles Highway is one of the most beautiful routes in Custer State Park. It takes around 60 minutes to complete and has many attractions along the way. Iron Creek Tunnel is another famously narrow tunnel along Needles Highway, measuring 8’9″ wide.

If you want to admire rock formations and dramatic geographical landscapes, drive Needles Highway. When visiting Custer State Park, driving the Needles Highway is a rite of passage. It is family-friendly as well; just wait for the shrieks of delight from your kids as you try to squeeze through some of the tunnels. When visiting with kids, check the visitor center for information on the Pups Program, which helps children aged 4-6 learn more about the state park.

10. Black Elk Peak

Visiting Black Elk Peak is one of the best things to do near Custer State Park. Black Elk Peak is the highest natural point in Dakota – e.g., very tall. When visiting Custer State Park, you can scale Black Elk Peak as a day trip activity. There are numerous routes up to the top, all of which provide stunning views and can combine other attractions along the way, like Cathedral Spires.

We recommend Black Elk Peak Trail from Lake Sylvan, along which you can choose between trails 4 or 9. For the easiest hike, pick the less steep Trail 4 on the way up and Trail 9 on the way down and treat Black Elk Peak as a loop hike.

The 7-mile Black Elk Peak Trail starts on the shores of Lake Sylvan. It takes around 5-6 hours in total for the average hiker. Still, it’s wise to allow yourself an extra couple of hours just in case it takes longer than expected. You have beautiful viewpoints staggered throughout the trail every mile or so, which should keep you motivated. Bring snacks and plenty of refreshments to enjoy on these natural breaks. The final viewpoint at Black Elk Peak summit is stunning. You get 360-degree views and expansive views of the Black Hills and even the surrounding states on the horizon.

11. Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is one of the most unmissable things to do in Custer State Park. The huge cliff-face is an iconic destination and landmark – known worldwide and featured in countless movies. Mount Rushmore dons the four faces of prominent presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The faces of these presidents are cut into the rock in 60-foot-tall carvings. Mount Rushmore has become a place of utmost patriotism and a marker of the USA’s political history.

Book this tour that includes Mount Rushmore and Black Hills from Rapid City that includes Two Meals and a music variety show. Now that’s fun!

Visiting Mount Rushmore is a must when in the Black Hills region. Over 2 million visitors come each year, mainly between June to August, and 9 am and 3 pm if you want to give the crowds a miss. It is one of those famous landmarks that are actually worth the hype. So add it to your itinerary outside of peak hours and circle it as a must-visit attraction.

If you visit Mount Rushmore, add a detour to the Crazy Horse Memorial. Only 16 miles away, it is a massive memorial dedicated to Lakota Sioux warrior Crazy Horse. It is worth noting that by driving to Mount Rushmore, you’ll also be completing the Iron Mountain scenic drive. Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

Considering that Crazy Horse Memorial, Iron Mountain Drive, and Mount Rushmore go so well together, we suggest allowing a whole day to complete all three together. This premiere private tour includes sightseeing through the Black Hills including Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park. Full details here.

12. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a fabulous way to experience Custer State Park. Horses can get to all the places where vehicles can’t go and faster than a person could ever hike it – perfect. You can channel your inner cowgirl or cowboy on a ride through Custer State Park. The amount of wildlife the park has is just a huge extra bonus. S

potting bison and prairie dogs from horseback is so much more special. And not only will you appreciate the experience more from horseback, but you’ll also be more likely to get close to wild animals. Horseback riding tours are a brilliant way to go sightseeing wildlife in Custer State Park.

One of the best stables within Custer State Park is Blue Bell Stables at Blue Bell Lodge. It runs guided trail rides that range from 1-hour introductory rides to full-day rides for more experienced riders. The hour-long rides include a jaunt at a walk and trot to the nearby French Creek. The hour-long rides usually have heron and deer sightings.

Half-day rides are more tailored towards bison sightings and take you briefly to Wildlife Loop. Full-day rides take you on a 6-hour experience to find even more animals. You head through French Creek, out to Wildlife Loop, and down to Parker Canyon – where you’ll have lunch.

Horseback riding season in Custer State Park is primarily from May to September. Bear this season in mind when booking if horseback riding is something you are really dying to do. For those wanting an even more ‘Western’ experience, consider a wrangler position for a season. Blue Bell Lodge takes on wranglers each season, which is perfect for those looking to visit the state park for a much more extended period.

13. Badlands National Park

For scenic viewpoint after scenic viewpoint, take a day out of the state park perimeters and venture to Badlands National Park. This national park is one of the best national parks in the USA. Out of all the national parks, it stands out most for its prairie wildlife and layered rock formations.

Book this private Badlands Package where your private guide shows the best of Badlands National Park drive with a stop at Wall Drug, the ghost town of Scenic, and the Minuteman Missile Site.

Its 242,756 acres are jam-packed with hiking trails and road trip routes. Just an hour and 15 minutes away, it is a breeze to combine with a holiday in Custer State Park. Read all about it at The Best Things to Do in Badlands National Park

Wildlife sightings are never-ending in Badlands National Park. The national park has bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. Like the Wildlife Loop Road, Badlands is an absolute mecca for the animal kingdom.

You can also visit some of the best fossil beds in the world – some of which preserve ancient mammal remains like the saber-toothed tiger. This park has so much nature, be it natural history or living animals to spot. The Fossil Discovery Trail is the best place to spot fossils in the park, and you can check online to see when paleontology talks are running.

If you only have a day in Badlands National Park, we suggest completing the Badlands Loop Road and stopping at the multiple overlooks. Roberts Prairie Dog Town is also a highlight on this loop road, and the whole experience takes around 3 hours.

14. Rock Climbing

Rock climbers will love Custer State Park. The park is an absolute dream for rock climbing. There are quite literally rock formations everywhere. In fact, the rock formations are mostly what brings Custer State Park its fame. The park has spectacular views, and if you are up for an active half-day, add climbing to your Custer State Park itinerary.

There are some areas where experienced rock climbers can climb independently. If you get stuck on which spots to choose, you can always head to a visitor center and get some advice. However, we suggest booking a climbing tour. With a tour, you’ll always have a guide with you. This way, it doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or can scale the trickiest sections with your eyes shut. You can get helpful tips with your technique and expert introductions and explanations of the region.

Some of the most famous rock climbing areas in Custer State Park include the Needles, Spearfish Canyon, and the nearby Mount Rushmore.

15. Big Thunder Gold Mine

Big Thunder Gold Mine is one of the most historical things to do near Custer State Park. The 1895 gold mine is a 30-minute drive from the park’s main visitor centers. The mine is perfect for a day trip away from Custer State Park and insight into the region’s industrial days. The attention to detail is immense. Big Thunder Gold Mine has a vast historical goldmine, reconstructed to be safe for informative visits. It also has an 1895-built gold mill. The whole attraction is full of informative exhibits and helpful guides.

Visitors get their hands well and truly dirty, too, donning yellow hats to head into reconstructed mine shafts themselves. You can even get involved with activities like gold panning as well. Big Thunder Gold Mine is a really immersive way to embrace the history surrounding Custer State Park.

We suggest booking in advance to avoid experiences being booked out. Doing a mine tour and gold panning experience in a single visit is feasible. It is good too, as this way visitors get to participate firsthand in both methods. Most excitingly, you get to keep whatever you find in the gold panning.

Custer State Park FAQs

Now that we’ve covered the most notable 15 things to do in Custer State Park, let’s look at some common FAQs. These are the essential bits of information that you need to visit Custer State Park.

How to Get to Custer State Park

The best way to get to Custer State Park is by plane and then by car. Rapid City Regional Airport has connecting flights to destinations all over the USA. It is around an hour’s drive away from Custer State Park. You can hire a car at the airport and then drive to one of the cities around the park’s outskirts. Assuming you stay in either Custer, Keystone, or Hill City, it will take 5 and 30 minutes to reach the state park by car. Check Rental Car Prices here.

If you can’t hire or bring a car, you could fly into Rapid City Regional Airport, transfer to Custer, and cycle to Custer State Park. The bike ride from Custer takes around 20 minutes, and you could then leave your bike somewhere safe (like the visitor centers) or use it to explore the park’s bike paths.

For those with a lot of time on their hands, it could be fun to road trip to Custer State Park. South Dakota has fascinating attractions, and you could create an incredible road trip itinerary.

Getting Around Custer State Park

The best way to get around Custer State Park is by car. Not only is the park 71,000 acres in size (too big to realistically navigate solely on foot), but the herds of bison and other wildlife are best observed from safely inside a vehicle. We suggest saving the walking for specific hiking trails. Plus, using a car to get around Custer State Park, you can enjoy scenic drives like Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road.

It is possible to explore most of the park by bike. Custer has many bicycle hire shops in the city center, so you can nip in and hire one for as long as you need. Many shops also have power bikes, which provide assisted cycling – ideal for tackling steep hills, especially if you aren’t usually a cyclist.

Custer State Park also has shuttle services and guided tours that you can purchase. This highly rated tour offers a private full-day sightseeing experience from Rapid City. As you can see, it combines Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park, which is relatively common but would be ambitious if driving yourself. If you are staying in a game lodge, it may also offer shuttle services and excursions.

The Best Time to Visit Custer State Park

June is the best time to visit Custer State Park. June is warm, with highs of 76 Fahrenheit and plentiful wildlife sightings. It is also quieter, with fewer crowds than in July or August. It is shoulder season and one of the best months for a stress-free visit to Custer State Park. You can easily find accommodation at a game lodge or find a spacious plot at a campground. And attractions won’t be as busy as they will in the height of summer.

If you need a wider window, May to September is the general tourism season in Custer State Park. During this period, you can enjoy hiking trails without snow and in warm temperatures. Custer State Park is also one of the best wildlife destinations from May to September. It is full of mountain goats, prairie dogs, and mule deer.

Of course, the best time to visit does depend on what things to do in Custer State Park you want to do. If you plan to visit Custer State Park in September, you can attend the Custer State Park Buffalo Round Up and Arts Festival.

You can book Round-Up tickets in advance. It happens only once a year. Secure your spot for the annual Buffalo Roundup that takes place on the last Friday of September. This full-day tour picks you up from Raid City where you’ll enjoy a continental breakfast, picnic lunch, and sightseeing to Sylvan Lake, Iron Mountain Road, and Needles Highway.

If you want to spot wildflowers (like the state flower of South Dakota, Pasqueflowers), visit in April, May, or June. Sunday Gulch Trail.

To Conclude

The things to do in Custer State Park are exciting and perfect for the outdoors lover. The 71,000 acres are full of natural beauty and are a fantastic base to appreciate the Black Hills of South Dakota. The park is somewhere to hike, hunt, sightsee, and explore. You can pick a state game lodge or find a romantic little cabin to use as a base for a hiking or rock climbing holiday.

Looking for inspiration for places and things to do near Custer State Park? Here are our guides on things to do in Deadwood, the top 8 South Dakota attractions, plus some photographic evidence that South Dakota is one of the most beautiful places in the world. After you visit Custer State Park, allow plenty of time to sightsee the rest of the beautiful state.

Bohemian Tulum town is an absolute dream. With beautiful beaches and famous Mayan ruins, the ancient Mayan port city is full of fun activities and a stunning beachfront location for a holiday. There’s so much to do, so save space in your itinerary for beaches, cenotes, and all the ruins by booking into one of the all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. With an all-inclusive resort, you don’t have to worry about paying for and finding extras like meals and basic activities. Instead, the all-inclusive resort gives you all the basics you need – leaving you more time to enjoy Tulum and the Riviera Maya.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum

This guide will cover the 11 best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. We’ll give you a straightforward introduction to each Tulum all-inclusive resort, including the main pros and cons. You’ll have the answer to which resort to choose in Tulum in as little as 5 minutes.

1. Generations Riviera Maya Resort

Generations Riviera Maya Resort is one of the best all-inclusive resorts if you want to be situated right on the coastline. This Tulum resort sits in the middle of the Riviera Maya along a private beach – directly overlooking the Caribbean Sea. In fact, it is just the massive outdoor pool that separates guests from stepping right onto the sand.

Despite Generations Riviera Maya Resort’s glitz atmosphere, though, it is one of the most family-friendly of the all-inclusive resorts Tulum offers. There is a kids club and all the standard facilities like a wellness center and fitness center. Pool-wise, you have a staggering 11 pools to pick from and take a dip in. Some spacious rooms and suites on offer provide access to an infinity pool.

As an all-inclusive resort, Generations Maya Resort provides all meals and soft drinks for its guests. There is also a choice of (mixed) included and extra activities from the resort, including horseback riding and snorkeling. It is impossible not to love the abundance of activities and things offered at Generations Riviera Maya Resort. It’s the perfect choice for a luxury experience without compromising entertainment.

Pros of staying at Generations Riviera Maya Resort

• 11 swimming pools
• Family-friendly resort
• Set on a private beach

Cons of staying at Generations Riviera Maya Resort

• Not all activities are included
• The family atmosphere might not suit some adults
• Quite isolated

2. Kore Tulum Retreat

Kore Tulum Retreat is a stunning adults-only resort amid Tulum’s Hotel Zone. When we say central, we mean it; you are just steps away from Tulum’s archaeological sites. And Kore Tulum Retreat is one of the best all-inclusive resorts if you want an adults-only resort experience in Tulum.

The retreat is like a tiny pocket of tranquility in the excitement of central Tulum, and you can choose from the 94 suites the property offers. Many suites have private balconies, with some either having a jacuzzi on the balcony or one indoors. The rooms (and retreat as a whole) just ooze elegance. While if you want to enjoy communal spaces, the massive infinity pool outside is a sublime place to overlook the ocean and unwind as well. There’s even a swim-up bar.

You should stay at Kore Tulum Retreat for an intimate, indulgent, adults-only resort experience. It is one of Tulum’s only all-inclusive resort options that stipulates the adults-only rule. So if that is important to you, jot this down. It includes all meals and a select amount of complimentary activities.

Pros of staying at Kore Tulum Retreat

• Adults only resort
• Infinity pool with swim-up pool bar
• Private jacuzzi

Cons of staying at Kore Tulum Retreat

• Not family-friendly
• In the busy Tulum Hotel Zone
• Not all activities are complimentary

3. Bahia Principe Grand Tulum

Bahia Principe Grand Tulum is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. Its all-inclusive resort package includes all meals – giving you a definite head start on saving money when staying in Tulum. But its fundamental winning factor is its location. Just seconds from Bahia Principe Grand Tulum are a nightclub, casino, and waterpark, so you can immediately access high-quality entertainment from the resort’s doorstep.

And facility-wise, there is a beautiful Bahia spa (typical of the Bahia chain), tennis courts, and a large outdoor pool. There are also 9 bars and 4 different a la carte restaurants, just in case you don’t fancy heading out to experience Tulum’s hospitality.

Bahia Principe Grand Tulum is located in Akumal rather than Tulum town. So you’ll be a little further from the Mayan culture and archeological sites. However, this all-inclusive resort is just 2.7 miles from Aktun Chen Natural Park, so it is best for those wanting to be close to nature.

Pros of staying at Bahia Principe Grand Tulum

• Close to Aktun Chen Natural Park
• Lots of hospitality venues on site
• Close to entertainment, including a casino and waterpark.

Cons of staying at Bahia Principe Grand Tulum

• Possibly noisy, considering the nightclub locale
• Distanced from Mayan culture and main archaeological sites
• A little expensive in comparison to other all-inclusive resorts that Tulum has

4. Catalonia Royal Tulum Beach & Spa Resort

Catalonia Royal Tulum Beach & Spa Resort is another of Tulum’s sparse adults-only resorts. The resort is set on idyllic white sands, and one of the 7 on-site restaurants even overlooks the stunning beach scene. The resort sits between lush palm trees and the ocean – like something straight out of a movie. Catalonia Royal Tulum Beach & Spa Resort is on Playa Xpu-Ha, a lovely quiet beach just north of Akumal.

So if you want a romantic setting for an adults-only experience, it is easily the best all-inclusive resort. Its all-inclusive resort package is fantastic, too, including meals, soft drinks, and complimentary concierge services. As it transpires, Playa Xpu-Ha is also the perfect spot for beach volleyball – just because you aren’t around kids doesn’t mean you can’t get competitive.

Catalonia Royal Tulum Beach & Spa Resort is a beautiful place for a beach break, and this Tulum all-inclusive resort is the perfect place for a group of friends. While situated north of Tulum in a more tranquil, natural area, it is only a 30-minute drive from the town center. You just set out far enough to enjoy the peaceful Maya Riviera, yet close enough to easily sightsee and enjoy urban access.

Pros of staying at Catalonia Royal Tulum

• Adults only
• Situated on Playa Xpu-Ha
• Great activities

Cons of staying at Catalonia Royal Tulum

• Not kids friendly
• Set outside of Tulum in a rural setting
• Not all activities are complimentary

5. Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa

Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa is a stunning wellness resort with many luxurious amenities. Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa is modern, with a contemporary, glitzy design. The resort complex is set on a private beach area just a few steps away from a little cove, where guests can enjoy direct access to the sea and complimentary watersports.

The resort grounds are expansive, and the amount of outdoor space is a winning quality. The absolute highlight, though, is Grand Sirenis’ full-service spa. As far as luxury spas go, it is super impressive. You can even book spa treatments outdoors in cabanas. Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa Resort is the sort of place where outdoor living is just as important as indoor living.

Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa has a nightclub, kids club, and fitness center. So it really covers all interests and preferences. Its all-inclusive resort package includes all meals and a few complimentary activities.

Pros of staying at Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa

• Spa treatments
• On-site nightclub and fitness center
• Lovely outdoor space

Cons of staying at Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Hotel & Spa

• Outside of Tulum
• Requires a car to sightsee
• Not all activities are complimentary

6. Dreams Tulum Resort

Dreams Tulum Resort is beautiful and entirely designed in neutral, sandy colors. Dreams Resort is a stunning all-inclusive resort and super photogenic – its 44 acres are a picture of aestheticism. Dreams Resort is set in a thick tropical jungle alongside a vast white sand beach.

Its setting and aesthetic allure are its major winning points, and you are just a short walk from some of the most impressive Mayan ruins near Tulum. If you want one of the most remote, tropical-feeling all-inclusive resorts in Tulum, then Dreams Resort is the pick for you.

Dreams Resort includes everything in its all-inclusive package, including all meals and complimentary 24-hour room service. While it is a family-friendly resort, Dreams Resort has set up adults-only areas for those wanting a bit of tranquility. Extra special rooms also feature swim-out pool access and whirlpool tubs.

Pros of staying at Dreams Tulum Resort

• Tropical vibe
• Set on the beach near Mayan ruins
• Luxury room options, including swim-out suites

Cons of staying at Dreams Tulum Resort

• Outside of Tulum
• Expensive in comparison to many other resorts
• Busy

7. Ahau Tulum

Ahau Tulum is eco-friendly and pet-friendly – basically the most quirky yet fabulous of all the all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. It has a massive wooden statue that is really characteristic and an eclectic interior design.

Ahau Tulum encourages barefoot living and offers traditional Mayan massages, hammocks, and oversized day beds for daytime relaxation. If you want a hippy-style experience of all-inclusive resorts in Tulum, Ahau Tulum will be right up your street.

Out of all these all-inclusive resorts, Ahau Tulum is a sneaky addition to our list. While it doesn’t offer an all-inclusive food package, it does offer certain amazing activities on a complimentary basis. For instance, temporary art galleries and cycling. The sheer amount of activities available at Ahau Tulum persuaded us to include it. And with so many dining options on-site, you can easily budget for your food in advance by checking menu prices.

Pros of staying at Ahau Tulum

• Eclectic design
• Eco-friendly
• Complimentary activities

Cons of staying at Ahau Tulum

• Food not included in the all-inclusive package
• Family-friendly
• Located outside of Tulum

8. Bahia Principe Grand Coba

Bahia Principe Grand Coba is one of the most classic all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. This resort has little beach huts around a vast outdoor pool, tons of natural lighting indoors, and private balconies in most rooms. When you envision staying at one of the all-inclusive resorts Tulum has, Bahia Principe Grand Coba matches up almost perfectly. It has that classic five-star vibe – elegant and full of facilities. Set on Playa Coba, guests have almost direct beach access.

After a long day of sightseeing, you might just want to stop by one of the 11 restaurants and bars. Families can access a waterpark and kids’ play area. These extra facilities for kids make all the difference in whether a resort is family-friendly. And there’s no reason your kids should miss out on five-star entertainment while you sunbathe nearby. Bahia Principe Grand Coba’s ability to cater to all age ranges impressed us.

We’d recommend choosing Bahia Principe Grand Coba if you want a typical resort experience outside of the main town of Tulum. The resort includes breakfast and parking in its all-inclusive package. However, you can also access nightly entertainment and some brilliant facilities – including a fitness center and hot tubs.

Pros of staying at Bahia Principe Grand Coba

• Huge outdoor pool
• Set on Playa Coba with direct beach access
• Excellent facilities

Cons of staying at Bahia Principe Grand Coba

• Family-friendly, which could put adults off
• Only breakfast is included in the all-inclusive package
• Outside of Tulum

9. Barcelo Maya Beach

Let’s start by saying that Barcelo Maya Beach is set on a private beach. The Barcelo resorts have a sky-high reputation, and Barcelo Maya Beach amplifies this reputation tenfold. The low-rise complex looks modern but unassuming from the outside- what really stands out is Barcelo Maya Beach’s pool area and the interior design.

There are wooden features throughout, be it on beamed ceilings or classic-looking furniture. If you circling the classy yet traditional-looking all-inclusive resorts Tulum has to offer, then Barcelo Maya Beach should rate highly. It perfectly treads the line between traditional and glitz, which earned it a place in this guide.

Apart from Barcelo Maya Beach’s good looks indoors, it also has a beautiful setting. The white sand beach stretches out into turquoise – bright turquoise – waters. And the sandy shoreline is dotted with tropical palm trees. The direct beach access is a huge win, and the scenery is massively photogenic. Even if you don’t feel like a beach day, you can walk to a nearby cenote in less than 15 minutes. Regarding packages, Barcelo Maya Beach has breakfast included all-inclusive packages. While of course, you can also take advantage of its excellent facilities. A fitness center, complimentary watersports facilities, spa, and nightclub are all on the cards.

Pros of staying at Barcelo Maya Beach

• Tons of excellent facilities
• Direct beach access
• Photogenic aesthetic and setting

Cons of staying at Barcelo Maya Beach

• Busy
• Only breakfast is included in the package
• Outside of Tulum

10. Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an

Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an is stunning. And we don’t say that lightly. This is one of the most upscale adults-only all-inclusive resorts in Tulum; it is the epitome of glitz and glam. Floor-to-ceiling windows are used at every possible interval to create a sleek design and abundant natural lighting.

While inside, things are kept in a crisp monochrome color scheme with beautiful plant life dotted around at aesthetic intervals. Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an is luxurious and loveably so.

Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an has a massive outdoor pool and a single restaurant. Rather than going overboard on facilities, it keeps it classic with timeless simplicity. You’ll also find tennis courts and a fitness center. While if you want to let your hair down a bit more, a nightclub is located on-site. The all-inclusive package includes free parking, Wi-Fi, and all meals. Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an also offers many complimentary activities, including snorkeling.

Pros of staying at Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an

• Abundant complimentary activities
• Monochrome color scheme and aesthetic
• Meals included in the inclusive package

Cons of staying at Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an

• Not all activities included in the inclusive package
• Can get busy
• Outside of Tulum

11. Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya

Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya is easily one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. This sleek-looking resort slopes straight onto white sand beaches. And with a spa, wellness center, and three outdoor pools, it is a brilliant spot to head and relax in Tulum.

It is the only all-inclusive resort with its own beauty salon and barber shop on site – which is pretty impressive. Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya is a place to retreat to, like a luxurious sanctuary on the Riviera Maya coastline.

Aside from the spa experience, Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya has 7 on-site restaurants and 9 bars. Definitely enough for you to spend a few nights in rather than venturing into Tulum town. There are all sorts of dishes – from Brazilian steak to seafood.

And the Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya has a range of all-inclusive packages to enjoy, including meal-inclusive packages and all-inclusive alcohol packages. You can spend your time at all-you-can-eat buffets and a la carte restaurants when you aren’t hitting up the spa or the pool.

Pros of staying at Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya

• Excellent food
• Beauty services on site
• Three outdoor pools

Cons of staying at Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya

• Adults only, which could be an issue for some guests
• Busy
• Outside of Tulum

All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum: FAQs

The Tulum area is full of attractions and notable things for tourists. Now you’ve had the rundown on the best inclusive resorts Tulum offers, it doesn’t mean you have all the information you need. These are the extra details you need under your belt.

Can you do all-inclusive in Tulum?

Yes, there are many all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. Choosing a Tulum all-inclusive is easy because you have many options, and it’s a popular way to holiday in this region.

Which is better, Tulum or Cancun?

Tulum is a breath of fresh air compared to Cancun for people who aren’t partiers. Tulum is much quieter and closer to nature – so better for people who want a relaxing rather than a party destination.

Which part of Tulum is best to stay?

The Pueblo (town center or Downtown Tulum) is best for budget accommodation options and an urban atmosphere. However, the North Beach Zone is by far the most beautiful area of Tulum, with a stunning beach that skirts the edge of Tulum National Park.

Is Tulum worth going to?

Yes! Tulum is definitely worth visiting. Its Boho vibe and beautiful beaches make it a really peaceful destination. The proximity to Tulum National Park is another massive bonus for nature lovers.

Why Choose an All-Inclusive Resort in Tulum?

Tulum is full of beautiful resorts. These top 11 all-inclusive resorts in Tulum are fantastic contenders for a luxury holiday away. Whether you want a spa resort or a golf break, you’ll have many included luxuries.

Staying in an all-inclusive resort is the perfect way to experience Tulum. Especially considering the town’s laidback atmosphere and luxury, Boho vibe. An all-inclusive resort takes all the stress out of meal times and daily activity planning, leaving you to focus on the good bits.

Looking for more Tulum inspiration? Check out this Yucatan road trip itinerary which includes Palya del Carmen and our guide on things to do in Playa del Carmen. And if you want a rundown on the Cancun neighborhoods, we’ve got a detailed guide on where to stay in Cancun here. Enjoy these best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum. From spacious rooms to spa treatments and private balconies with Caribbean sea views – you’ll have the treat of a lifetime at any of these best all-inclusive resorts.

Arizona, the Grand Canyon State, is a place full of diverse cities, each with its own unique attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking for a bustling metropolis with a thriving economy or a spiritual sanctuary surrounded by stunning red sandstone formations, there’s an Arizona city waiting to be discovered. So, let’s begin our journey through the best cities in Arizona to visit in 2023!

Exploring The Top Cities in Arizona

From the sprawling Phoenix Metropolitan Area to the idyllic nature of Sedona, Arizona is a state that caters to every taste and lifestyle. Each city offers its own unique attractions and activities, including award-winning school districts, bustling downtown areas, and incredible golf courses. The warm climate and natural beauty make Arizona a popular destination for both young professionals and retirees alike.

With cities like Scottsdale boasting luxury and culture, and Williams serving as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, there’s no shortage of adventure and excitement to be found in Arizona. Whether you’re drawn to the southern charm of Tucson or the college town vibes of Tempe, there’s a city in Arizona just waiting for you to explore.

1. Phoenix: The Thriving Capital

Phoenix, the state capital and largest city in Arizona, is a thriving and diverse metropolis. With a rapidly growing population, Phoenix offers ample job opportunities in its diverse economy, which includes established companies and high-tech startups. The city’s downtown area is a hub of activity, with museums, restaurants, and nightlife options catering to a wide range of tastes and interests.

In addition to its bustling city life, Phoenix also boasts incredible outdoor activities and natural wonders. The nearby Salt River provides opportunities for water sports, while the Arizona desert is home to the Desert Botanical Garden and scenic hiking trails. Phoenix’s incredible weather and diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for those seeking the excitement of a big city with the beauty of the surrounding desert landscape.

2. Scottsdale: Luxury and Culture

Nestled in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, Scottsdale offers a unique blend of luxury, culture, and outdoor activities. Known for its championship golf courses and posh resorts, Scottsdale caters to those seeking an upscale experience.

In addition to its lavish amenities, the city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with art galleries, museums, and eclectic shops found throughout its historic downtown area. Scottsdale’s southern neighbor, Paradise Valley, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and love of golf, while Camelback Mountain provides a scenic backdrop for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

With its warm climate and thriving nightlife, Scottsdale is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of luxury, culture, and adventure.

3. Tucson: Desert Charm and Adventure

Tucson, a vibrant desert city located in Southern Arizona, offers a unique mix of art, culture, and food. Surrounded by mountains and the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is known for its outdoor adventures, including hiking and mountain biking in the nearby Saguaro National Park and Mount Lemmon. The city’s diverse culinary scene offers everything from high-end dining to authentic Mexican cuisine, making it a popular destination for food lovers.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Tucson also boasts a rich history and a thriving arts scene. The city’s downtown area features colorful murals, public art, and Hispanic culture, while the El Presidio Historic District showcases a mix of Spanish-Mexican and Anglo-American architecture.

For those seeking a blend of desert charm and adventure, Tucson is the perfect destination.

4. Flagstaff: Native American Arts

Located just a stone’s throw from the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff is a charming and historic city that offers a wealth of outdoor activities and attractions. With the thriving Northern Arizona University, breweries, bars, and restaurants in its historic downtown area, Flagstaff caters to a diverse range of interests and tastes.

Flagstaff’s historical downtown area exudes charm, and its legacy as an important stop along Route 66 is still palpable today. The area is dotted with vintage diners and historic buildings that transport visitors to a bygone era. Additionally, the Native American influences on Flagstaff’s culture are evident in its art, festivals, and community events.

With its combination of outdoor activities, rich cultural heritage, and community-centered events like the Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival, Flagstaff stands out as one of the best places to live in Arizona.

5. Tempe: College Town Vibes

Home to Arizona State University, Tempe is a vibrant college town with plenty of nightlife options and family-friendly activities. With a youthful population, the city offers a lively atmosphere that caters to both college students and young professionals.

In addition to its thriving nightlife, Tempe also boasts an array of family-friendly attractions, including the Desert Botanical Garden and Papago Park. Tempe’s average commute time is shorter than in other cities in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, making it an attractive option for those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the big city.

With its warm climate, thriving nightlife, and diverse attractions, Tempe is the perfect destination for those seeking a vibrant college town experience.

6. Mesa: History and Outdoor Fun

Mesa, a large city located in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, offers a diverse array of housing options and attractions for its residents and visitors. From its historic downtown area, which features museums (like the amazing Arizona Museum of Natural History) and a Wild West town, to its stunning natural surroundings, Mesa is a city that caters to a wide range of interests and lifestyles.

With a variety of outdoor activities available, including hiking, biking, and golfing, Mesa is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors. The city’s close proximity to the San Francisco Peaks and the Salt River makes it an attractive option for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.

7. Lake Havasu City: Waterfront Wonderland

Located on the shores of the Colorado River in Western Arizona, Lake Havasu City is a remote lakeside city that offers a unique blend of entertainment options, a beautiful landscape, and a fascinating history. The city is home to a portion of the original London Bridge, which was brought over from England and now connects downtown to the marinas and “the Island.”

Lake Havasu City’s waterfront location provides ample opportunities for aquatic activities, while its unique history and attractions make it a popular destination for tourists. Whether you’re interested in boating, watersports, or simply taking in stunning sunsets, Lake Havasu City is a waterfront wonderland waiting to be explored.

8. Prescott: Small-Town Charm

Prescott is a city in Arizona. It’s nestled away and has a population of fewer than 40,000 people. Offering a small-town city vibe, Prescott is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The city’s historic downtown area features live music and art openings, while its beautiful lakes provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and recreation.

With its charming atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, Prescott is an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to settle down or simply enjoy a weekend getaway, Prescott’s small-town charm is sure to win you over.

9. Sedona: Spiritual Sanctuary

Nestled among the red sandstone formations of the Arizona desert, Sedona is a spiritual sanctuary that offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and New Age experiences. Considered a sacred place by many, Sedona is known for its energy vortexes and healing properties, attracting visitors from around the world seeking spiritual growth and renewal.

In addition to its spiritual allure, Sedona also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in its stunning natural surroundings. With its red sandstone formations and spiritual atmosphere, Sedona is a truly unique destination that offers a perfect balance of adventure and introspection.

10. Williams: Gateway to the Grand Canyon

Williams, a small town located on the edge of the Grand Canyon, is the perfect base for exploring one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. Offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping, Williams provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the grandeur of the GC firsthand.

In addition to its proximity to the Grand Canyon, Williams also features a historic downtown area, offering visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich history and Old West heritage. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or a leisurely stroll through a charming downtown area, Williams is the ideal destination for those looking to explore the Grand Canyon and beyond.

Natural Wonders in Arizona’s Cities

Arizona’s cities are surrounded by awe-inspiring natural wonders that offer residents and visitors alike a chance to experience the state’s incredible beauty and diverse landscapes. From the majestic Grand Canyon to the iconic Saguaro cactus of Saguaro National Park, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to explore.

In addition to these well-known attractions, Arizona’s cities also boast lesser-known gems, such as the stunning San Francisco Peaks and the vibrant flora of the Desert Botanical Garden. No matter which city you choose to visit or call home, the scenic beauty and natural wonders of Arizona are never far away.

Grand Canyon National Park

No visit to Arizona would be complete without a trip to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an incredible testament to the power of nature, with the Colorado River carving its way through the landscape over six million years, revealing breathtaking Proterozoic and Paleozoic strata. The Grand Canyon is a must-see destination not only for its scenic beauty but also for its fascinating geological history.

Saguaro National Park

Another iconic destination within Arizona is Saguaro National Park, home to the majestic saguaro cactus. This towering plant, which can live for up to 200 years and reach heights of three stories, is synonymous with the desert landscape of the American Southwest. The park itself is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Sonoran Desert. This is a grat way to explore the park, on an E-Bike!

Desert Botanical Garden

If you’re looking to explore the unique flora of the Sonoran Desert, a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is an absolute must. This 55-acre garden is home to an incredible collection of desert plants from around the world, showcasing the stunning biodiversity of arid regions.

With a variety of ecosystems, including a mesquite bosque, semi-desert grassland, and upland chaparral, the Desert Botanical Garden offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert. It is a great place to photograph and this photography tour is a must.

San Francisco Peaks

Situated in northern Arizona, the San Francisco Peaks is a picturesque mountain range that offers a wealth of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The peaks, which are the remnants of a once-much-higher stratovolcano, are home to Humphrey’s Peak, the tallest point in Arizona. Hikers, skiers, and nature lovers alike are drawn to this beautiful area, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and scenic beauty. This sunset tour from Flagstaff is a perfect way to explre the mountains at the best time of the day.

Best Cities in Arizona FAQ

What are the nicest areas in Arizona to live?

If you’re looking for the nicest areas to live in Arizona, look no further than Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert. These cities are all known for their excellent quality of life, great outdoor activities, and ample employment opportunities.

Whether you’re looking for an urban vibe or a suburban community, there’s something for everyone in one of these great Arizona cities.

What is the most beautiful city to live in Arizona?

If you’re looking for a picturesque and vibrant city to live in in Arizona, Sedona should definitely be at the top of your list! The breathtaking red rocks, lush landscapes, and year-round sunshine make it an ideal place to call home.

What are the coolest cities to live in in Arizona?

If you’re looking for some of the coolest cities to live in Arizona, check out Flagstaff, Sedona, Phoenix, Tucson, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Prescott! I’ve experienced them all firsthand, and they truly are amazing places to live.

What is the most upscale city in Arizona?

Paradise Valley is considered the most luxurious city in Arizona, with a median household income of $204k and average home prices of $2.96 million. This affluent city has stunning homes that attract many wealthy residents.

The city is known for its high-end shopping, fine dining, and luxurious resorts. It also boasts a variety of outdoor activities, such as golfing, hiking, and biking. Residents of Paradise Valley enjoy a high quality of life, with access to a high quality of life.

Is Arizona a good place to live?

Overall, Arizona is a great place to live with its warm weather, diverse culture, and plentiful amenities. With a low cost of living, affordable housing, and no tax on social security, it’s an attractive destination for retirees. The state also has plenty of job opportunities, excellent schools, and low property taxes. It’s certainly worth considering as a place to live.

In Conclusion

Arizona’s cities offer a diverse range of attractions, activities, and experiences, from the vibrant pulse of Phoenix to the serene beauty of Sedona. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of the New Age, there’s an Arizona city just waiting to be discovered. So why not start planning your Arizona adventure today and experience the magic of the Grand Canyon State for yourself?

Located in the province of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon got its name from the Saskatoon Berry, a wild berry that grows in the region. Nicknamed “The Paris of the Prairies”, Saskatoon is also known as the “City of Bridges” thanks to its 8 bridges that span the South Saskatchewan River.

This city offers experiences as diverse as its seasons. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie eager to savor farm-to-table freshness, or an adventurer seeking thrilling activities, Saskatoon has something in store for everyone. From its bustling downtown alive with the arts, eateries, and boutique stores, to its peaceful riverfront that beckons with wide-open spaces and beautiful trails, Saskatoon captivates with its charm and warmth.

Top things to do in Saskatoon

In this guide, we’ve curated the top 23 things to do in Saskatoon, each promising a unique perspective of this prairie city. Let’s uncover the must-visit spots, delve into mouthwatering culinary delights, and embark on exciting outdoor adventures that make Saskatoon truly worth a visit. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, these experiences will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of Saskatoon’s spirited heart.

Let’s have a look together at 23 things to do in Saskatoon in different categories – outdoor activities, museums, food, and music festivals!

1. Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Wanuskewin Heritage Park can be found about 3 km north of Saskatoon. The proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site got the name of the park comes from a Cree word meaning “living together in harmony,” and it is a symbol and a reminder of the relationship with nature and the ancestors living in the area in the past. The park shows what life was like for the First Nations Peoples who lived as nomadic hunter-gatherers

This park in Saskatoon is home to important archeological discoveries that can be dated to over 6000 years ago dating back to before the Pyramids of Giza. With a unique design, fascinating rooms, and art exhibitions, Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a must-see when visiting this part of Canada.

Fancy some Saskatoon berries and Muskeg tea? How about bannock or bison? At the restaurant, you can choose from a diverse menu of traditional foods from the Indigenous communities. See more information here.

2. Saskatoon Forestry Farm & Zoo

The forestry farm and the zoo in Saskatoon SK is one of the Saskatoon attractions that appeal to all ages. Here, you will discover amazing gardens as well as heritage buildings, not to mention a wide variety of species that are native to western Canada.

This is a place where history, flora, and fauna come together to tell an amazing story about the province of Saskatchewan and the city of Saskatoon in particular and Canada in general. The Saskatoon Zoo Society is a non-profit, charity dedicated to fostering respect for nature through education.

3. Meewasin Valley Trail Saskatoon

On both sides of the South Saskatchewan River stretching for over 80 km, we have the Meewasin Trail. Winding through the city, close to most of the major touristic attractions and important historical places, this trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, the Meewasin Valley Trail offers one of the best outdoor experiences in Saskatoon. Not only does the trail offer stunning natural beauty, but it also provides access to several points of interest, including the Beaver Creek Conservation Area, the Saskatoon Natural Grasslands, and the Prairie Lily Riverboat. The Meewasin Valley Trail beautifully captures the heart of Saskatoon’s natural charm and is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

When visiting Saskatoon plan at least a few hours in this area; there are plenty of fun things to do here, such as riding bikes and discovering hiking trails or walking trails. Adults and children alike will enjoy the day out and the variety of activities available.

4. Remai Modern Museum

With views over the South Saskatchewan River, the Remai Modern Museum accommodates 406 pieces of Pablo Picasso’s linocuts among its 11 gallery spaces. And this is a permanent collection that you can visit anytime, during the museum’s opening hours. Plan your visit here.

The building housing the museum was opened to the public in 2017 and honored Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie style. In the atrium, you’ll notice the fireplace and an intriguing installation featuring hanging cubes. Haegue Yang is the artist behind this interesting work of art, and the installation was crafted from Venetian blinds, so it’s something to discover and talk about when you get back home.

Fred Mendel’s private art collection was moved from the Mendel Art Gallery to the Remai Modern Museum.  This art gallery is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Saskatoon and should be on top of the list for people who travel in the province.

5. Check out downtown Saskatoon

If you’re visiting Saskatoon for the first time, a leisurely walk around downtown is a must. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Saskatoon’s city center, known for its stunning river views, charming boutique shops, and eclectic range of restaurants. Downtown Saskatoon is compact yet diverse, serving as the city’s business hub while simultaneously showcasing its rich cultural heritage.

Stroll along the beautiful River Landing, visit the Remai Modern art museum or take a historic walking tour to learn about the city’s past. Don’t forget to check out Broadway Avenue, where you’ll find a mix of vintage and modern shopping options, and 20th Street, the heart of the Riversdale neighborhood, teeming with vibrant murals, trendy coffee shops, and local artisan stores.

6. Canoe the South Saskatchewan River

For an unforgettable water-based adventure, try canoeing down the South Saskatchewan River. This is a unique way to see Saskatoon, giving you a different perspective of the city and surrounding areas. The calm waters make it a suitable activity for canoeists of all experience levels.

Outfitters in Saskatoon can equip you with all the necessary gear, and even provide guided tours if desired. As you glide down the river, you’ll likely catch sight of various wildlife, from birds to beavers, further enhancing this immersive outdoor experience. Remember to take a moment to simply float and soak in the breathtaking Prairie vistas.

7. Prince Albert National Park

Just two hours north of Saskatoon lies the extraordinary Prince Albert National Park. This vast expanse of wilderness is renowned for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and camping.

The park also holds historical significance as the home of Grey Owl’s Cabin, a tribute to the British-born conservationist who lived there in the 1930s. Exploring the diverse ecosystems, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife from white pelicans and elk to the iconic plains bison. A visit to Prince Albert National Park is truly a journey into the heart of Canada’s wilderness, providing a memorable and invigorating experience for all ages.

8. Cross Country Skiing

If you’re visiting Saskatoon in the winter, don’t miss out on the chance to go cross-country skiing. This popular winter sport is a great way to explore Saskatoon’s scenic outdoors while getting a workout. There are several trails around the city suitable for cross-country skiing, including those in Kinsmen Park and Holiday Park.

The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, making it an activity that everyone from beginners to experienced skiers can enjoy. Equipment rentals are readily available if you don’t have your own gear. The tranquil silence of the snowy landscape, interrupted only by the crunch of your skis, is a refreshing winter experience you won’t soon forget.

9. Berry Barn

The Berry Barn is a delightful country eatery nestled in a serene riverside setting. Famous for its delicious home-style meals, the Berry Barn is a must-visit for foodies. The charming, rustic ambiance is complemented by the beautiful surroundings, featuring verdant orchards and a flowering garden.

It’s not just about the food at the Berry Barn, though. This popular Saskatoon attraction is known for its berry production, particularly saskatoon berries, which you can pick yourself during the summer months making it a hit with Saskatoon residents as well. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast, a slice of their famed berry pie, or simply soaking in the idyllic views, the Berry Barn offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

10. try the gin at Black Fox Farm and Distillery

If you’re a lover of spirits, a visit to Black Fox Farm and Distillery is a must. This award-winning distillery is renowned for its high-quality, flavorful gin produced with ingredients grown right on the farm. They have a range of gins featuring different flavors, each with its own unique character, from their classic dry gin to those infused with flavors like cucumber or haskap berries.

The distillery offers informative tours where you can learn about the distillation process, from seed to sip. You’ll gain insight into how the farm-grown ingredients are transformed into the delicious spirits they sell. After the tour, you can sample their products in the tasting room. Buying a bottle to take home is a great way to remember your Saskatoon adventure.

11. Persephone Theatre

Do you like live theatre? Persephone Theatre in Saskatoon has been offering live theater performances for almost half a century now. Persephone Theatre is one of the largest regional theatre companies in Saskatchewan. During a regular season, you can see performances on two stages, the Rawlco Radio Hall has 400 seats, while the Backstage Stage studio is a smaller hall with only 100 seats. You’ll easily find Persephone Theatre as it is located close to the city center, in the Remai Arts Center.

12. Go mountain biking in Blackstrap Provincial Park

Just a short drive from Saskatoon, Blackstrap Provincial Park offers thrilling mountain biking trails. Known for its man-made mountain, the park has trails suitable for all levels of experience, from beginner loops to more challenging climbs and descents for experienced riders.

Beyond the excitement of the trails, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Blackstrap Lake and the surrounding prairie landscape. Bike rentals are available at the park, making it easy for everyone to enjoy this exhilarating activity. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to enjoy a leisurely ride amidst beautiful surroundings, mountain biking in Blackstrap Provincial Park promises an enjoyable outing.

13. Ukrainian Museum in Canada

As the name suggests, this museum honors the colonists that came here from Ukraine, Europe, and contributed to the development of the country. The Ukrainian Museum is one of the not-to-miss activities in Saskatoon. Here you can find interesting artifacts (artwork, clothing, etc.) donated by Ukrainian families. And there is a gift shop to grab a souvenir of your time there.

14. Hot air balloon

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, consider a hot air balloon ride over Saskatoon. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of floating gently in the sky, watching the city and the stunning Saskatchewan landscape unfold beneath you.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore Saskatoon from a whole new perspective, taking in views of the cityscape, the winding South Saskatchewan River, and the expansive prairies beyond. Hot air ballooning is a serene, almost magical experience, making it a perfect activity for a special occasion or simply to make your visit to Saskatoon truly unforgettable.

15. Saskatoon Western Development Museum

Are you up to one more trip to a museum? This time it’s the Saskatoon Western Development Museum, one of those places where you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. Here you can have a look at 1910 Boomtown, a representation of the town back in 1910.

Saskatoon was thriving because of the railway and this museum traces its railway roots. With over 30 buildings capturing the atmosphere and style of the time, this museum should definitely be among your trips and activities planned in Saskatoon. Interesting displays include the Royal Northwest Mounted Police jail, a 1911 electric car on boomtown street and photos from the era. Check out more here.

16. Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink

Are you ready for some skating in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan? Then you can do this in Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink. The locals would tell you that this is a must-do during your trip to this part of western Canada.

And the position of the Meewasin Rink is great too, just along the South Saskatchewan River, close to an iconic, historic hotel – The Delta Hotels Bessborough. As always, when taking a trip, check the weather conditions before making plans. Here you can find official updates about the Meewasin Skating Rink. Provided the weather allows it, you can enjoy hours of fresh air skating.

17. Diefenbaker Canada Centre

Located in the University of Saskatchewan campus, Diefenbaker Canada Center is the only center of this kind in the region. The center is home to an archive and a museum dedicated to the life and work of Canada’s prime minister, so it’s one of those places definitely worth a trip. It includes replicas of the Prime Minister’s office and Privy counsels Chambers

While you are in the area, check out 1020 Spadina Crescent East, a heritage building, built-in 1912.

18. University of Saskatchewan

Did you imagine that one of the top attractions in Saskatoon would be a trip to the University of Saskatchewan? Well, when in Saskatoon plan to spend an hour or two here as the university campus is probably one of the most vibrant places in the region. More than this, the Peter Mackinnon Building is a national historic site. Boasting river views, the University of Saskatchewan campus is considered among the most beautiful campuses in Canada.

19. Beaver Creek Conservation Area

This is a trail outside the city, but easily reachable. It’s a lovely place if you like hiking and walking trails while admiring the wildlife. Make sure to bring a camera, you’ll want to take plenty of photos! The trails are marked and have different color codes, so you won’t get lost. The views are spectacular and you can choose to do a longer or shorter hike, the short ones take no longer than 20 minutes.

20. Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival

Did you know that Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival attracts more than 80,000 people each year? This makes it one of the largest music festivals in Western Canada! You can jump-start the summer fun and music extravaganza in the best place ever! You can also enjoy the best of what the region has to offer during the ten-day festival held at the end of June. And you don’t have to worry, even if you’re not a big fan of jazz, the festival actually caters to all music lovers! Make sure to book your accommodation well in advance, there are lots of people coming here each year during the festival.

21. Prairie Lily Riverboat Cruise Saskatoon

Are you visiting Saskatoon with your loved one? Or maybe you’re just looking for one of the most romantic activities to do while in the area? A river cruise seems like the right answer then! A romantic cruise on a Prairie Lily Riverboat to enjoy superb city views and rest for a while is just another thing you can do to get to know the city and what it has to offer better.

22. Saskatoon Farmers Market

One of the most sought-after activities and one of the trips you shouldn’t miss when here is a visit to the Saskatoon Farmers Market. The Farmers Market is hosted in the Riversdale and River landing neighborhoods on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. With indoor and outdoor amenities, the Farmers Market gives you a unique opportunity to sample the best foods produced locally. Have a light dinner on Friday evening and head to the market for a quick, delicious breakfast on a Saturday morning.

23. Taste of Saskatchewan Festival

Welcome to a gourmand’s fantasy! Thirty of the best restaurants in Saskatoon offer their finest dishes during a six-day festival held in Kiwanis Park on the river’s west bank. As we’ve mentioned before, the food scene in Saskatoon is lively as it is, but in mid-July, things do get even more heated during the festival. You can check out more details about the festival here.

Things to do in Saskatoon FAQ

Is Saskatoon worth visiting?

Absolutely! Saskatoon offers a diverse array of attractions for all types of travelers. From its vibrant downtown and lush green spaces to its rich cultural heritage and unique culinary scene, Saskatoon is a city that truly has something for everyone.

What is Saskatoon most known for?

Saskatoon is known for its beautiful riverfront, dynamic cultural scene, and friendly, welcoming vibe. It’s also famous for its festivals, like the Saskatoon Jazz Festival, and landmarks like the Delta Bessborough Hotel and the University of Saskatchewan.

What is an interesting fact about Saskatoon?

One interesting fact about Saskatoon is that it’s named after the Saskatoon berry, a sweet, violet-colored berry native to the area. The city is sometimes referred to as “Paris of the Prairies” for its charming riverfront and numerous bridges.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through some of the best experiences Saskatoon has to offer. The city’s blend of nature, culture, and adventure makes it a truly remarkable destination. See you in Saskatoon!

Final words about your trip to Saskatoon

Saskatoon can offer you all this and much more. The city parks, the Beaver Creek Conservation Area, the river views, and the trips in the area are just some of the reasons behind Saskatoon’s popularity. It’s a place like no other that many are happy to call home!

Indonesian food is some of the tastiest on the planet. Indonesia has delicious fried foods, from the classic nasi goreng to the sweet pisang goreng. It isn’t just Indonesia’s fried dishes; the country has some tasty soups, including oxtail soup and chicken soup. Indonesia is heaven on earth for anyone who loves trying new food.

The cuisine is a blend of many influences in Southeast Asia and was massively influenced by early trading with China. If you plan to visit Indonesia, going on a food-tasting spree should be on your list. Especially if you are looking for things to do in Bali – even those traveling on a budget in Bali can afford to splash out on street food.

Top Indonesian Food: Our Top 30

Ready to sample some of the best Indonesian food? We’ve created a guide of our absolute favorites. These 30 Indonesian dishes are guaranteed to please your taste buds. You can try them in Indonesia or recreate them at home. It’s exciting stuff, so let’s get started.

1. Nasi Goreng, Indonesian Fried Rice

Nasi goreng is one of Indonesia’s national dishes, and the beloved Indonesian fried rice is one of the first dishes you must try. Nasi goreng is flavorsome and filling. The perfect hearty meal and ideal for satisfying a savory craving. So, how is nasi goreng different from standard fried rice? Mainly the flavor. Nasi goreng uses shrimp paste and fish sauce and is typically topped with a fried egg – sunny side up and with a runny yolk. Aside from these ingredients, the rice is often mixed with meat or vegetables. It is common to serve nasi goreng with a salad on the side.

The perfect nasi goreng uses long-grained rice, boiling it until cooked and then cooling it. The rice is then fried in light oil alongside fried shallots, garlic, and meat or vegetables. Chilis are an essential addition, too, and are usually added in slices. Finally, the sauce is prepared and stirred through the dish.

When we say that nasi goreng is a traditional Indonesian dish, we mean it. The recipe was introduced by Chinese immigrants way back in the 10th century. The fried rice dish has undergone adaptations since then but is still eaten for any meal of the day. Nasi goreng is one of Indonesia’s most popular dishes, and we don’t see that changing any time soon.

2. Sop Buntut, Oxtail Soup

Sop Buntut is comfort food. Oxtail soup is rich in protein, especially collagen. So Sop Buntut is ideal for when you are feeling under the weather or need to give your body a nutritious meal. In Indonesia, oxtail soup is a delicacy and one of the most traditional Indonesian dishes. The soup comes in a hot broth with vegetables and a cow’s tail. The broth is flavored with fish sauce, fried shallot, and lime juice in the proper Indonesian style.

Making sop Buntut is super straightforward. If you want Indonesian food to recreate at home, keep it in mind. The spices and shallot are fried, then the oxtail, and finally, all the ingredients boil. The modern version of sop Buntut has a definite Indonesian stamp. However, historically, it originated in Europe around the 17th century. According to historians, the dish was introduced to Indonesia by the Dutch, and it was only in the 1970s that Sop Buntut became a popular part of Indonesian cuisine.

3. Ayam Goreng, Fried Chicken

Ayam goreng is a delicious fried chicken coated in a spice mixture. Whether you marinate or simmer the chicken in its paste first varies per recipe and individual. But just know that ayam goreng packs a serious flavor punch. It is usually enjoyed as a standalone dish. However, you can enjoy ayam goreng with rice, vegetables, or a side salad. It is adored for its intense flavor and moreish appeal.

As we said, ayam goreng is coated in spice and left to marinate or simmer. After that, it is deep-fried to create a light, crunchy texture on the outside. It is real finger food. Perfect for a quick meal on the go or a versatile side at a garden party. Traditional Indonesian fried chicken is said to have come from Nini Ronodikromo, a woman who sold fried chicken as a street food seller in the 1950s. Her street food enterprise was so successful that by the 1960s, she had a restaurant in full swing.

4. Ikan Bakar, Grilled Fish

Ikan Bakar is simply a grilled fish. However, it is so grilled that many people nickname it the ‘burnt fish’, and this traditional Indonesian recipe is quite specific compared to other grilled seafood. The fish is usually served as part of a main dish on a banana leaf and topped with fresh vegetables. Marinated in a spicy paste and grilled over charcoal, the fish meat has a smoky and intense flavor. When cooking ikan bakar, turmeric, garlic, and ginger are the primary flavors. However, the best recipes also include lime and sweet soy sauce.

The marinating stage is really crucial to achieving this punch of flavor. Many people use a zip lock bag for this – mixing the sauce and the fish and leaving it refrigerating for an hour or so. The fish is then wrapped in banana leaves to grill. The banana leaves keep the fish from sticking and lets it retain moisture, leaving you with juicy meat.

Ikan Bakar is actually a Malay-influenced dish in Indonesia. In fact, the nickname ‘burnt fish’ is a literal translation in Malay, as bakar means burnt and ikan means fish. Nobody knows how it first originated.

5. Pisang Goreng, Fried Bananas

Pisang goreng is one of the most unusual Indonesian foods to try if you are yet to become familiar with the cuisine. Pisang goreng is just fried bananas – coated in batter and deep fried. The dish is super sweet, and chefs use extremely ripe bananas to make it even sweeter. Many people claim that cooked bananas have a more intense version of their natural flavor. We’ll leave you to decide.

The process of making pisang goreng is straightforward. The banana is cut into bitesize chunks and rolled in a light batter mixture. Then, it is simply dropped into a pan of red hot oil to quickly fry. The fried banana is removed, dried, and ready to eat.

The history of pisang goreng is hazy. It is another dish that overlaps between Malay and Indonesian cuisines. So whether it was born in Malaysia or Indonesia is up for debate. It does track back to the early 16th century when Portugal arrived in southeast Asia though. The Portuguese are said to have introduced flour, allowing the deep-fried food phenomenon to begin.

6. Smor Ikang, Spicy Fish Stew

Smor Ikang is a spicy fish stew full of fresh flavors. The dish goes hard on the taste buds with ginger, cloves, sweet soy sauce, fish stock, and coriander. Like any delicious stew in southeast Asia, Smor Ikang also bulks up the fish and veg with noodles – usually vermicelli noodles. The result is a warming seafood dish, not unlike pho in Vietnam. It really ticks off a lot as a dish. It’s hearty because it contains protein and bulky carbs like potatoes. But it is also light enough to enjoy as a lunch.

When it comes to preparation, Smor Ikang is relatively easy. The potatoes are boiled, the main flavoring ingredients are blended into a paste, and stock is used to create a broth for the stew. The noodles are in the final stage since they cook so quickly. It has many different elements to juggle, but once you know the recipe, Smor Ikang is one that you can make in a heartbeat.

Smor Ikang originated in Indonesia in Manado. Manado is the capital of the North Sulawesi province, situated near the sea with fantastic fishing opportunities. If you are visiting Indonesia, definitely consider stopping off here. And even if you are creating Smor Ikang at home, check out pictures to appreciate its influence.

7. Nasi Padang, Fried Rice

Nasi Padang is a yummy fried rice dish. However, the main difference to nasi goreng is that Nasi Padang refers to rice served as a single part of a whole dish. Nasi Padang includes a tapas-style selection of lots of mini dishes. You get a beef rendang, stewed veggies, eggplant, sambal, fried chicken, and unusual meat cuts like liver or foot tendons. For the indecisive, Nasi Padang is a brilliant option. And if you are an adventurous eater, even more so. Nasi Padang is full of tastes – from rich sauces to spicy veg.

As you can likely imagine, Nasi Padang takes a while to prepare. It is a juggling act since you create 5-6 little dishes. Though many consider it the Indonesian national dish (perhaps second to the suckling pig), the long process is worthwhile. Many believe that the dish was inspired by Dutch influence in the colonial era. Still, direct links are yet to be revealed.

8. Fried Tempeh, Fried Soybean Patty

Indonesian food is great for vegetarians and vegans. And if you spot a fried tempeh option while traveling to Indonesia, you must try some. Fried tempeh is a lot like tofu. Instead, it uses soybeans and occasionally brown rice to create a patty. This patty is then fried and added to dishes like salad bowls, fried tempeh bowls, and steamed rice. It is crispy and admittedly bland until you get creative with flavoring. But marinated in some sweet soy sauce or ginger paste, fried tempeh is a yummy Indonesian food.

The history of fried tempeh needs to be clarified and confirmed. But food historians can agree that it was created before 1800 – meaning it could be as many as a thousand years old. Many believe the dish was made in either Central or East Java, so we can also ascertain that fried tempeh is truly Indonesian food.

9. Bakso Goreng, Meat Balls

Bakso goreng is the meatball of Indonesian cuisine. The dish is a unique blend of egg and minced meats, crushed together and deep fried for the final texture effect. The bitesize meatballs are served without sauce, although a pot of chili sauce is provided on the side for dipping. Taste-wise, Bakso goreng is just that classic meat-tasting dish. It is simple but delicious and well worth trying if visiting.

The history of Bakso goreng dates back centuries. The type of meatball may be Indonesian, but its roots lay in China. Meatballs were created in the 17th century – the Ming Dynasty. Meng Bo was only a child. However, he was upset that his mother couldn’t eat beef due to her teeth and old age. Meng Bo masterminded the meatball concept and created a dish that allowed his mother to enjoy meat still. His idea stuck and continues to be a successful food today. Considering the immigration between China and Indonesia, it is no wonder that the dish quickly became adopted into Indonesian cuisine.

10. Babi Guling, Roasted Pig

Babi Guling is an Indonesian roasted pig. The most famous variation of this dish is the Balinese suckling pig, which is sold all over the island and especially near the rice paddies of Ubud. While many consider babi Guling a national dish, it is actually rare. Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim population, which means that pork is not regularly consumed in most areas. When you do find some, though, it is worth trying. The meat is succulent after being hand spit roasted and served alongside steamed rice, Lawar, and a bowl of chicken soup.

Babi Guling was originally a ceremonial offering to Balinese Hindu gods. It continues to be used as a dish for special occasions and ceremonies. Certain restaurants serve the dish as a regular part of their menu.

11. Sambal Terong Balado, Grilled Purple Eggplant

Sambal Terong Balado is a delicious vegetarian dish in Indonesian cuisine. The dish contains slices of grilled purple eggplant topped with thick, spicy sambal sauce. Sambal Terong Balado is served piping hot and full of spice – a healthy and hearty dish to try. It is easy to prepare, too, by preparing a paste and then steaming eggplants. Quick, easy, yet tasty, Sambal Terong Balado is a firm favorite, and it’s clear to see why.

While the history of Sambal Terong Balado is unknown, we can track the balado element of the dish. Balado is a spice mixture that originated in West Sumatra, a part of the Minang cuisine. Now, the spice mixture is used all over Indonesia and even in Malaysia (even more evidence of the two cuisines’ influence on each other).

12. Taugeh Goreng, Stir-Fried Bean Sprouts

Taugeh goreng is one of our favorite classic vegetarian Indonesian dishes. The stir-fried bean sprouts are crunchy and, typical of Indonesian cuisine, covered in soy sauce and peanut oil. Sliced garlic and chilis are then scattered throughout the dish. It is spicy and slightly nutty – far from a basic side dish.

Taugeh goreng is easy enough to make. In fact, it is one of the quickest Indonesian foods to prepare on this list. You prep the garlic and chili slices beforehand, and throw the bean sprouts into a hot wok with soy sauce to stir fry for a minute. History-wise, bean sprouts have been grown for over 5,000 years. They are native to Asia, Japan, and India, so Indonesia’s use of bean sprouts dates back centuries.

13. Rawon, Indonesian Beef Soup

Rawon is a dark-colored Indonesian beef soup with a distinct nutty taste. This nutty flavor and dark color come from using black Keluak nuts. These nuts give Rawon an earthy essence, but the soup is also quite spicy- full of chili, shallots, garlic, and candlenuts. This Indonesian food comes served over steamed rice alongside boiled eggs. It is packed with protein and is a delicious, rich-tasting meal in Indonesia.

Rawon is one of the most ancient Indonesian foods to try. It is so old that it was mentioned in a Javanese Taji inscription in 901 CE. The preparation method is definitely well-practiced. The nuts are removed from their shells, and the core is left to soak in boiling water. This draws out the dark color and is used as a broth for the beef.

14. Pempek

Pempek is a fishcake delicacy and a delicious savory dish. It is designed as a starter or finger food, and Pempek comes served with a sweet and sour sauce for dipping. It is one of the best seafood options for Indonesian food. The Pempek itself is neutral in taste. It has a strong fish taste and uses tapioca flour to create the ‘cake’ element. However, dipped in the sauce, Pempek has a strong and tasty flavor.

The fish meat is covered in tapioca flour and then deep-fried for a crunchy texture. It dates back to an old man in South Sumatra. As the story goes, he grew tired of eating grilled or fried fish, and in his frustration he created Pempek. The man cycled around the city of Palembang, selling his fish cakes. Their popularity grew, and the rest is history.

15. Sayur Asem, Vegetable Soup

Sayur Asem is a vegetable soup with a clear, gravy-like broth. The key ingredient is tamarind juice. The tamarind gives the broth an acidic taste – slightly sweet and slightly sour. The sweetness of the jackfruit balances the acidity out, and the peanuts and candlenuts give it a nutty element. If you aren’t vegetarian, add a sharp fermented shrimp paste to give it a bit of extra kick. A lot is going on in an excellent Sayur Asem, but taste it, and you’ll decide you wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sayur Asem earned its place in Indonesian cuisine during Dutch colonial rule. At this time, poverty was rife in Jakarta. Since Asem trees were plentiful, it became popular to use tamarind to flavor soup. The trend stuck, and Sayur Asem was born.

16. Rendang, Curry

Rendang is a curry like no other. This is probably why most people consider it a category of its own. Unlike your classic coconut milk curry, rendang resembles a thick paste that sticks to your primary curry fillers. It contains lemongrass, tamarind, ginger, onion, chili, coriander, star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Basically, a rendang has all the best spices. And red meat lovers take note; rendang usually uses beef.

The process of preparing a rendang paste is a breeze. Unless you are shopping for all the individual ingredients because rendang is a pick and mix of spices. You can always buy a pre-prepared rendang paste. Or, add all the ingredients together and blend until a thick but smooth consistency. Rendang is one of the oldest Indonesian dishes and was created by the Minangkabau people in the 16th century.

17. Gudeg, Stewed Jackfruit

Gudeg is a sweet main course consisting of stewed jackfruit. The fruit is stewed in a mix of palm sugar and coconut milk – exaggerating the fruit’s already sweet flavor. It is typically served alongside boiled eggs, rice, tofu, and shredded chicken. If you want to make it vegetarian, you can omit the chicken. It is a flexible dish to choose from when visiting Indonesia.

Because it needs to stew, Gudeg is a more time-consuming dish than many others on this list. It is a one-pot dish, and the jackfruit is placed directly into the coconut milk and sugar. It originates from Yogyakarta and Central Java and is believed to have been created in the 19th century. Exactly where, when, and how is a mystery.

18. Nasi Uduk, Coconut Milk Steamed Rice

Nasi Uduk is a yummy rice. Forget about plain rice; this white rice is full of flavor and tasty enough to be a dish in itself. Since it is soaked in coconut milk rather than water, it is intensely flavored and has a sweet quality. Clove, cassia bark, and lemongrass are also added for extra taste. Nasi Uduk is a beautiful Indonesian food to try. It is usually served alongside a selection of meats or curry.

As we mentioned, Nasi Uduk is cooked in coconut milk – not boiled in water. This specific preparation method gifts the rice a more intense taste. However, cooking takes no longer than standard rice, which is a huge bonus. Nasi Uduk is usually served in beautiful arrangements. For instance, it is often served in a cone shape or a circle. This dish is a Jakarta creation, although who knows exactly when it was created? Coconut milk has been around for centuries.

19. Soto Betawi, Beef Soup

Soto Betawi is a beef soup with some unusual ingredients. Beef with ginger, lime, ginger, and honeycomb tripe? Sign us up. The dish has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste from a coconut milk broth. The lime gives it a tangy edge, too, though. We love how complex tasting this Indonesian food is.

The beef is the first stage in preparing soto Betawi. You boil the meat, drain it, and cut it into small chunks. The onion is ground into a paste and boiled alongside all the spices. Yum – right? The dish is a twist on the classic Chinese soto soup and comes from Jakarta.

20. Coto Makassar, Peanut and Beef Stew

Coto Makassar is a traditional part of Indonesian cuisine. The stew is a soto soup version containing ground peanuts and shredded beef. Some recipes also add a light peanut sauce. Aside from these flavors, a tasty Coto Makassar contains garlic, lemongrass, coriander, cumin, bay leaves, and seasoning. Coto Makassar is one of the most intensely flavored stews in Indonesian cuisine.

The prep involves frying the garlic, lemongrass, and other flavoring ingredients. As for the beef, you simply boil it and cut it into shreds. After this stage, everything is combined in a thick sauce.

Coto Makassar originates from South Sulawesi and is said to date back to the 16th century. The dish was eaten by everyone; from royals to farmers. And over time, the recipe was adapted, adding things like fermented soybean and chili sauce.

21. Mie Aceh, Curried Noodles

If you are a noodle lover, mie Aceh is a delicious Indonesian food. Sometimes, you crave a hearty pile of carbs, and these curried noodles are delicious. The curried sauce is full of classic spices like turmeric. A chili and shrimp paste is a common addition as well. Mie Aceh is often served alongside prawns or prawn crackers. If you are looking for a base for a seafood dish, mie Aceh is a fantastic option.

The cooking process is easy, and chefs blend all the spices and wet ingredients. This then acts as the sauce to fry the cooked noodles. The dish originated from the Aceh region – created by the Achenese people centuries ago. This area of Indonesia is heavily influenced by Malaysian and Chinese cuisine, which you can see in this Indonesian food.

22. Ayam Taliwang, Spicy Chicken

Ayam Taliwang is a seriously spicy grilled chicken that comes from Taliwang – its namesake. It is aromatic in flavor and covered in chilis and garlic. Cooked over a charcoal grill, ayam Taliwang is also slightly smoked. Overall, it is a somewhat intense dish choice you will love if you like spicy food. If there was ever a challenge to eat Indonesian food, ayam Taliwang would be top of the list. Luckily, most menus give you spice-level options and tangy lime juice to neutralize the chicken.

Preparing Ayam Taliwang is simple. You just dip the chicken in a spicy paste and slowly grill. It is one of the most classic Indonesian dishes. It is believed to have been one of the favorite dishes of the Sasak nobility. However, this is a hot topic since Abdul Hamid claimed to invent the dish in 170. Whoever you decide to believe, it is a top chicken dish in Indonesia.

23. Bubur Ayam, Chicken Congee

Bubur Ayam is a chicken congee. This looks like rice porridge with shredded chicken and is popular street food in Indonesian cuisine. Taste-wise, Bubur Ayam has a sweet soybean sauce and a chicken broth. It has a slightly sweet meaty flavor, with extra tastes from scallion and shallots. Bubur ayam has Chinese influences. The dish comes from Chinese immigrants who arrived in Indonesia centuries ago.

Bubur ayam is prepared in around an hour from scratch. Of course, street food vendors tend to cook as they go, so you can purchase Bubur Ayam from the street side immediately. The dish has three parts: congee, fried chicken, and broth. The congee is prepped first, then the broth is strained and served alongside the congee. Finally, the chicken is fried and added to the dish. It is relatively simple, requiring only a bit of juggling.

24. Sayur Lodeh, Indonesian Vegetable Soup

Sayur Lodeh is a coconut milk-based vegetable soup. Because of coconut milk, Sayur Lodeh has a sweet taste. Its name is a clue to its preparation. Sayur just means vegetables, and Lodeh refers to the process of cooking vegetables in coconut milk. Sayur Lodeh is often served alongside tofu, rice cakes, or steamed rice. It is a great main course for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Preparing Sayur Lodeh is super simple. You bring coconut milk to a boil in a pan and add the vegetables to cook. Add a bit of seasoning, and voila – you are done. This Indonesian dish is said to date back to the 10th century and originated in central Java. It has a reputation for being a dish that springs to popularity during times of tragedy and disaster. For instance, historians tracked spikes in the consumption of Sayur Lodeh during the bubonic plague and Mount Merapi eruption.

25. Ayam Kecap, Braised Chicken

Ayam Kecap is a delicious braised chicken dish. This Indonesian food is unforgettable, with tamarind juice and sweet soybean sauce as crucial ingredients. The braising technique means that the chicken is lightly fried before cooking in the sauce. So Ayam Kecap is first fried and then left to cook, gaining full flavor in a marinating sauce of tamarind juice, soy sauce, and salt. The dish is eaten as a standalone or part of a meal with extra elements like vegetables.

Ayam Kecapis a staple in Indonesian cuisine. Sweet soy sauce chicken is hard not to love. The dish originates in Java but has Chinese influences. Ayam kecap is also eaten in Malaysia – called ayam kecap manis.

26. Soto Ayam, Chicken Soup

Soto is a traditional dish in Indonesia and soto ayam is the chicken version of this dish. This soup is the ideal savory treat for a flat day, which is why we had to squeeze it onto this list. The meat broth is thin but full of intense flavors like lemongrass, coconut milk, cumin seeds, and lemon leaves. The primary ingredient is chicken – which is accompanied by noodles for extra bulk.

Soto ayam was created in East Java, specifically in Surabaya. Soto was originally a Chinese creation, though; the original recipe dates back centuries.

27. Pepes Ikan, Banana Leaf Fish

Pepes ikan is a more general version of ikan bakar. Pepes Ikan is just any fish cooked in banana leaves. It mainly refers to the cooking style of preparing fish by grilling them in banana leaves to retain moisture. However, many menus and restaurants list Pepes Ikan as a dish, so here we are. The dish has a trademark tenderness and moisture to the fish. The actual flavor varies depending on what the chef adds to the fish.

Usually, Pepes Ikan is prepared by marinating the fish meat first. This allows plenty of time for flavor to seep into the fish. Wrapping the marinated meat in banana leaves, this flavor then continues to strengthen.

Pepes Ikan is easily one of the most popular Indonesian dishes. The banana leaf has long been part of Buddhist and Hindu celebrations and offerings. Furthermore, since the plant is native to Southeast Asia, it has been used as a cooking tool for centuries.

28. Gado Gado, Mixed Salad

In Indonesia, ‘gado’ just means mix. So gado gado just means mix, mix. The dish is undoubtedly a hurricane combination of ingredients; some even go as far as to describe it as a riot. The salad is a mix of hot and cold ingredients. The cold ingredients always include a boiled egg, prawn crackers, bean sprouts, crunchy cucumber, and – of course – garlic and shallots. Hot ingredients are usually steamed potato, steamed rice, fried tofu, or tempeh. If that sounds like a whirlwind, you are right. And to top it all off, gado gado is served with a boiled peanut sauce similar to sate ayam.

There are two theories about the origins of gado gado. Some say that the dish was created in Jakarta, although there is no clear picture of when or where this happened. Others say that the dish was made in the village of Tugu upon the arrival of Portuguese colonizers. The latter suggests that the colonizers brought their own produce, influencing the creation of gado gado. Whichever it is, you should definitely add this salad to your must-try list.

29. Sate Ayam, Skewered Meat

Who doesn’t love Sate Ayam? Sate ayam (or satay) is a traditional Indonesian food that is famous for its use of peanut sauce. Overall though, it consists of skewered meat that is seasoned and grilled. Ayam is a special sauce that the Sate meat is either pre-marinated in or served alongside. It consists of a thin peanut sauce swirled with a dash of soy sauce. The taste of sate ayam is deliciously nutty and rich. If you like meat with a kick, this is the perfect street food to try or a dish to recreate at home on a barbeque.

Sate ayam originated in Java – an island in Indonesia. It is believed that sate ayam is a result of Arab influence on the country, introducing the spices and techniques of kebab-style cooking. This barbecue dish is the best in Indonesia; no wonder it spread to other Southeast Asian cuisines.

30. Klepon, Sweet Rice Cake

Klepon is the perfect Indonesian food if you are craving dessert. The sweet treat is a rice cake pounded into a neat ball shape. The rice is mixed with palm sugar and grated coconut – giving the bitesize treats extra sweetness. Klepon is also green in color, so easily spotted when visiting Indonesia. We really recommend trying this dish if you have a sweet tooth. Many liken it to an Indonesian version of Japanese mochi.

Klepon is simple to prepare. The rice, cooked in boiling hot water, is only added at the final stages. The first stages involve steaming coconut and creating dough from coconut milk and flour. Once you merge all the ingredients, roll the rice cake in desiccated coconut for the final touch.

Klepon is a reverse of Dutch influence on Indonesian cuisine. It is one of the examples of the Indonesian impact on the Netherlands. The dessert originated in Java centuries ago, then introduced to the Netherlands in the 1950s. It remains hugely popular in both countries.

To Conclude

Traditional Indonesian food is delicious. If you haven’t tried it before, get ready to fall in love with the intense flavors. From sweet soy sauce to coconut milk and lime juice, Indonesian food is heavy on the taste buds but in the best way possible. Try the country’s most popular dishes, but keep an open mind and taste as much as possible if visiting.

Looking for more inspiration about Southeast Asian cuisine? Lots of people visit Indonesia as part of a Southeast Asia backpacking experience. Whether you travel further throughout the region or want other Southeast Asian cuisines to try at home, we have plenty of other content. Check out our guides on the best Vietnamese, Thai, and Filipino foods.

Utah is a hidden gem in the lower 48. Its proximity to mountains and deserts can satisfy the most adventurous spirits. Nestled between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain Range, Salt Lake City is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to be surrounded by mountains, cottonwood trees, or sandstone arches. With amazing outdoor adventures, there are also plenty of things to do in downtown Salt Lake City making it the perfect year-round escape.

Top Things To Do In Salt Lake City

As the capital city of Utah, it boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, culinary delights, and nature. Whether you are a thrill-seeker looking for your next adventure, a history buff interested in diving into the depths of the city’s past, an art enthusiast seeking inspiration, or a foodie ready to indulge, Salt Lake City has something that appeals to every type of traveler.

In this guide, we’re going to uncover the 29 must-see sights and must-do experiences that make Salt Lake City such an exciting destination. From world-class museums, historical monuments, and live music venues to nature parks, shopping centers, and sporting events, you will discover the unique charm of this diverse city.

Get ready to explore, experience, and enjoy the best that Salt Lake City has to offer. Welcome to the Crossroads of the West! So strap on your walking shoes and let’s start exploring the best Salt Lake City attractions.

1. Temple Square

Temple Square is the most popular tourist attraction in Salt Lake City. Located right in downtown Salt Lake City, Temple Square covers an area of 10 acres and five city blocks with the imposing Salt Lake Temple at its centerpiece. It is the headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (The Mormons).

In 1847 Brigham Young led a band of pioneers declaring, “This is the Place.”  And is still used today as a place of worship. Free tours are available where you can learn of Mormon history and faith while exploring the many museums, event spaces, gardens, and libraries.

• Location: 50 N Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, United States
• Cost of Entry: Free

2. Salt Lake City Tabernacle Choir

Even as a kid I had heard of the famous Tabernacle Choir and no visit to Salt Lake City would be complete without taking in a performance at Temple Square. The Salt Lake Tabernacle has been performing for 150 years and continues to do so with live broadcasts and recitals. At certain times of the year, the choir opens its doors to the public and to let them watch their rehearsal. You can check for the full schedule here before visiting.

• Location: 50 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
• Cost of Entry: Free

3. Utah State Capitol Building

When visiting any capital city in the United States, you can’t miss seeing the capital building, they are always so grand. Situated on Capitol Hill overlooking downtown Salt Lake City, the Utah State Capitol is a striking example of Neoclassical Revival architecture.

Since its completion in 1916, the Capitol has been the heart of Utah’s government, where laws have been passed, amended, and repealed. Its grand marble interior, featuring beautifully detailed murals and sculptures, captures Utah’s history and its people’s spirit. The Capitol offers free guided tours where visitors can gain insights into the building’s history and architecture, and the lawmaking process. For tickets, hours, and more information, find the details here.

• Location: 350 N State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84114
• Cost of Entry: Free

4. Natural History Museum of Utah

For a day indoors with the whole family, make your way to the Natural History Museum of Utah. For science, culture, and history, this is definitely one of the top points of interest in the city. Nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Range, the Natural History Museum of Utah is a gateway to the state’s fascinating past.

The museum is housed in the impressive Rio Tinto Center, whose architecture mirrors the layered rock formations found throughout Utah. With ten permanent galleries, the museum presents a comprehensive story of the natural world, from the formation of the earth and life’s evolution to the diverse ecosystems and cultures, present in Utah today. It spans over 500 million years of Utah’s history from the ancient Great Salt Lake to the First People’s Exhibit and other important moments in history. It’s not just Utah history however, it houses the largest collection of horned dinosaur fossils in the world, and it has rotating exhibitions to complement its permanent displays complete with interactive displays.

• Location: 01 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
• Cost of Entry: Adults $14.95, Youth (13-24) $12.95, Child (3-12) $9.95, 2 and under Free

5. Salt Lake City Public Library

Why go to a public library you ask? For the architecture of course. The Salt Lake City Public Library is a beautiful display of modern architecture designed by renowned international architect, Moshe Safdie. It is one of the most beautiful architectural displays in Utah.

The 240,000-square-foot building is six stories high with curving walls. It not only houses 500,000 books, but there is also a public plaza on the ground floor with shops and services, a rooftop terrace with rooftop views of Salt Lake City and the Salt Lake Valley, an auditorium, and reading galleries. This is truly a place in Salt Lake City for a little solitude and quiet time.

• Location: 210 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
• Cost of Entry: Free

6. Discover the Wonders of Tracy Aviary

Established in 1938, Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park is one of the oldest and most significant bird parks in the United States. Spanning eight acres, the aviary is home to over 400 birds from 135 different species, many of which are endangered or rare. Embark on a fascinating journey, observing birds from around the world in exhibits like the South American Pavilion, home to giant condors, or the Kennecott Wetland Experience, where pelicans and ibises reside. Don’t miss the interactive bird shows where you can see birds of prey swoop and dive.

It’s located in a residential neighborhood so the best way to explore is to take this guided cycling tour where you’ll meet your guide at the oldest park in the city and then cruise through the sculpture garden of Gilgal Park, and explore the century-old neighborhoods as you wind your way to City Creek Canyon in downtown Salt Lake.

• Location: 589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
• Cost of Entry: Adults $11.95, Youth (4-13) $7.95, 3 and under Free

7. Uncover History at This is the Place Heritage Park

Step back in time at This is the Place Heritage Park, a living history museum that celebrates Utah’s pioneer heritage. Named after Brigham Young’s famous declaration when he first viewed the Salt Lake Valley, the park captures the spirit of the 19th-century Mormon pioneers.

Wander through the village featuring more than 50 historic buildings, each telling a unique story. Watch blacksmiths, printers, and tailors at work, or enjoy a ride on a historic train. Visit the Native American Village to learn about the indigenous cultures of the region. The park also boasts a petting zoo, making it perfect for a family day out. This is the Place Heritage Park that offers an immersive history lesson, revealing the challenges and triumphs of Utah’s early settlers.

• Location: 2601 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
• Cost of Entry: Adults $13.95, Seniors (65+) $11.95, Youth (3-11) $9.95, 2 and under Free

8. Relax in Sugar House Park

Sprawling over 110 acres, Sugar House Park is one of Salt Lake City’s most loved green spaces. Once home to the Utah State Prison, the park now offers a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Winding pathways invite visitors for leisurely walks or vigorous runs, while the rolling green hills are perfect for picnics or simply relaxing with a book.

The park also features a large pond, playgrounds, and sports facilities. In the winter, the park’s slopes become popular for sledding. Throughout the year, Sugar House Park hosts various community events, from Fourth of July fireworks to charity runs. Whether you’re an active outdoor enthusiast or just in search of tranquility, Sugar House Park has something to offer.

• Location: 1330 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
• Cost of Entry: Free

9. Family History Library

Located in the city center in Temple Square, The Family History Library is free to enter and is open to the public for people in search of their genealogy. It is one of the largest Geneology museums in the world and it is run by the Church of Latter Day Saints. They have an extensive collection with 1.3 million rolls of microfilmed genealogical records.

The state-of-the-art facility is climate-controlled preserving temperature, humidity, and light to protect the books, microfiche, and other records. It’s not just for Americans or Mormons either, they have records of 8 billion people (deceased) from 100 countries! It’s one of the most popular things to do in Salt Lake City with millions of people from around the world entering its doors in search of their family history. Visit their website to see how you can discover your family history.

• Location: 35 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150

10. Clark Planetarium

The Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City is a space and science lover’s paradise. This world-class facility features an array of exhibits on astronomy and space exploration, including meteorites, a scale model of the solar system, and a real moon rock from the Apollo 15 mission.

The planetarium’s centerpiece is the Hansen Dome Theater, which boasts a 3D immersive environment for experiencing shows about our universe. Additionally, the ATK IMAX Theater offers educational science films and thrilling feature movies. By offering a mix of education, exploration, and entertainment, a visit to the Clark Planetarium is truly an out-of-this-world experience. We love hitting a movie theater when traveling and IMAX Theatre presentations are always a treat.

• Located at: 110 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
• Cost of Entry: Free (additional costs for IMAX and dome theatre)

11. Red Butte Garden

Located at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City’s Red Butte Garden is not only a botanical garden, it’s the largest botanical garden in the American Intermountain West.

Covering over 100 acres, with 22 acres of display gardens, it is home to a remarkable collection of over 20,000 plants, arranged in various themed sections. Wander through the rose garden, aromatic herb garden, or the new Water Conservation Garden, which showcases water-wise landscaping solutions. The Garden also boasts a natural area with 5 miles of walking trails, offering stunning views of the mountains and city below. Throughout the year, Red Butte Garden hosts a range of events, from horticultural classes to outdoor concerts in its amphitheater.

12. Get Inspired at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts, located on the University of Utah campus, is the Mountain West’s primary resource for culture and visual arts. Its vast collection includes over 20,000 original art pieces spanning 5,000 years, representing cultures from around the globe. From European paintings to African tribal art, from Asian scrolls to contemporary American pieces, the museum offers a truly comprehensive and enriching exploration of human creativity.

The museum is also dedicated to engaging its audience with dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, and various special events. Step into the Utah Museum of Fine Arts to witness the universality of human expression and take away a deeper understanding and appreciation for art and culture.

13. The Eccles Theater

If you are looking for things to do in Salt Lake City at night, a visit to the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater is a must. This state-of-the-art performing arts center in downtown Salt Lake City hosts a diverse lineup of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, and more. The grand lobby, with its soaring six-story glass façade, offers stunning views of the city.

Inside, the Delta Performance Hall, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate feel, can seat over 2,400 people. Meanwhile, the smaller Regent Street Black Box is a versatile space for more experimental productions. With its combination of stunning architecture, great performances, and rich cultural experience, Eccles Theater offers a night out to remember.

• Location: 131 S. Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
• Cost of Entry: Varies by performance

14. City Creek Center

Situated in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, City Creek Center is an upscale open-air shopping center that offers a unique shopping and dining experience. More than just a retail hub, City Creek Center stands out with its architecturally striking design and its incorporation of the natural beauty of Utah.

Retractable glass roofs, a pedestrian skybridge, and a fully functioning creek with live fish are just a few features that enhance the shopping experience. The center boasts more than 100 top retailers, including high-end brands, along with a variety of restaurants that cater to all tastes. Additionally, City Creek Center is just steps away from other city attractions like Temple Square and the Salt Lake City Public Library, making it a convenient stop during a day of exploration.

15. Visit Trolley Square

Steeped in history, Trolley Square is a unique shopping center housed in a renovated 1908 trolley car barn. With its charming brick architecture, vintage water tower, and collection of original trolley cars, the Square is a reminder of a bygone era. However, the shops within are decidedly modern, ranging from fashionable boutiques and specialty stores to gourmet restaurants and a thriving food court.

Additionally, Trolley Square is often host to special events such as music performances, festivals, and art shows, making it a vibrant community hub. Combining retail therapy with historical ambiance, a visit to Trolley Square offers a shopping experience like no other in Salt Lake City.

• Location: 602 S 700 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
• Cost of Entry: Free

16. Feel Serene at the Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Tucked away in the middle of the city, the Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a hidden gem. This public city park, created by local businessman Thomas Battersby Child Jr., is home to 12 original sculptures and over 70 stones engraved with scriptures, poems, and philosophical texts.

Each piece represents aspects of Child’s beliefs and his interpretation of LDS theology. The centerpiece is a sphinx with the face of Joseph Smith. The garden is a peaceful, meditative space, providing an intriguing exploration of art, religion, and philosophy. A visit to the Gilgal Sculpture Garden offers a unique blend of tranquility, creativity, and contemplation.

• Location: 749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
• Cost of Entry: Free

17. Great Salt Lake

Salt Lake City got its name from the massive Great Salt Lake and this outdoor playground is just 20 miles from the city center. Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the entire western hemisphere and outdoor lovers will enjoy kayaking, sailing, hiking, and biking around the Great Salt Lake.

It is a popular area for bird watching thanks to the Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve where millions of birds migrate through the area. Go for a walk along the boardwalk following the interpretive towards the 30-foot viewing tower. Drop by the visitors center for more information before you start exploring.

18. Delight in the Beauty of Antelope Island State Park

A gem in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The island boasts striking natural landscapes, from its rugged mountains and desert plains to its serene beaches. Its diverse habitats support a wealth of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and numerous bird species, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

The park’s network of trails caters to hikers, bikers, and horse riders, with paths meandering through scenic terrain and providing breathtaking views of the lake and mainland. History buffs will appreciate the 19th-century Fielding Garr Ranch, which offers a glimpse into the island’s past. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, or tranquility, Antelope Island State Park delivers an unforgettable experience.

• Location: 4528 W 1700 S, Syracuse, UT 84075
• Cost of Entry: $10 per vehicle

19. Traverse the Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats offer a surreal landscape unlike any other in Utah. This vast expanse of hard salt crust, covering over 30,000 acres, is a remnant of the ancient Lake Bonneville. The flats’ unique surface has made it a popular spot for land speed racing, with numerous records set here over the decades.

Even when there aren’t cars or motorcycles rocketing across the flats, they are a sight to behold, especially when the thin layer of standing water turns the surface into a giant mirror. Whether you’re a speed enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a traveler in search of otherworldly landscapes, the Bonneville Salt Flats are an unforgettable sight.

• Location: Interstate 80, Wendover, UT 84083
• Cost of Entry: Free

20. Hike Ensign Peak

Just north of the Utah State Capitol Building lies Ensign Peak, a prominent hill that offers one of the best views of Salt Lake City. The brief but steep hike to the summit takes about 30 minutes, leading to a panoramic vista of the city, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding mountains.

The peak holds historical significance as it’s where Brigham Young and other early Mormon leaders first surveyed the valley to plan the city. A monument at the summit pays tribute to this moment. Ensign Peak provides an easily accessible escape to nature and a stunning viewpoint, rewarding every hiker with unforgettable scenery.

21. Park City

If you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping by the mountain town of Park City, especially on Sundays, when “Park Silly,” the city’s open-air market, is on. From local honey to handmade jewelry, to street performances and food trucks, this market has something for everyone. Pick up your walking guide to Park City on Amazon

With a closing time of 5 pm, you can enjoy your morning paddle session, and still get a bit of mountain culture in the afternoon. With hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, and so much more, one weekend isn’t enough for how much northern Utah has to offer, but it’s enough to leave you wanting more.

22. Ice Climbing

If you are visiting Salt Lake City in the winter, this guided ice climbing trip takes you from Salt Lake City to learn how to climb or practice your skills. Some of Utah’s best ice climbing venues are near Salt Lake City and they include Little Cottonwood Canyon, Provo Canyon or Maple Canyon.

23. Catch Olympic Fever At Utah Olympic Park

Salt Lake City was home to the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and Utah Olympic Park is still bustling with Olympic energy. Athletes train year-round at Olympic Park at their state-of-the-art freestyle skiing facilities and the Olympic Oval speedskating rink. During the Olympics, this park hosted ski jumping events, bobsleigh, luge, and Nordic skiing. But the park isn’t only open to athletes, the public can enjoy Olympic sports and outdoor activities from extreme tubing to ziplining and guided bobsledding tours taking you down the Olympic track.

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at ski jumping, you can go for it in the splash pool. The museum’s interactive exhibits offer a behind-the-scenes look at the Olympic Games, from the science behind winter sports to the stories of athletes who have competed here.

Of course in the winter, it’s home to world-class skiing and snowboarding while summers can be spent mountain biking and hiking. For more information visit the Park City website.

24. Ski Resorts

No trip to Salt Lake City in winter would be complete without hitting one of the nearby ski resorts. There are four world-class ski resorts at its doorstep including Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude Mountain. They are all situated in the same area just 90 minutes out of the city center. In fact, you can ski all four of them in one day! Challenge accepted.

If you don’t want to go that far into the mountains, there are 9 ski resorts within one hour from the city. Ogden Resort is great for families, Park City for its Olympic ties, and the other resorts in Cottonwood Canyon have a great powdery base.

Looking for your post-adventure eats? Lone Star Taqueria is a local post-adventure eatery that is an easy two miles from the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Here you’ll find the best fish tacos in Utah. Wrapped in two corn tortillas, and overflowing with the fish of the day, these tacos, topped with a cilantro-lime dressing, will give you reason enough to start planning your next trip to Salt Lake City.

25. Snowbird’s Mountain Bike Trails

Snowbird is known for regularly receiving 500+ inches of snowfall each year. Once the snow melts, however, the mountain opens for some of the most breathtaking mountain biking in the Salt Lake region.

The Big Mountain Trail, accessible by purchasing a $25 lift ticket, takes bikers on a 7.5 mile downhill ride through forested turns, wooden bridges, and wide-open straights. With 2,900 feet of vertical drop, and an 8% grade, you won’t have to worry too much about sore muscles from last night’s hike, but you will want to make sure to wear a helmet.

26. Hiking In The Mountains

Load up the hiking gear, you’re headed to the mountains. Because the Wasatch National Forest is so close to Salt Lake Valley, it’s feasible and easy to head into the mountains for a quick overnight backpacking trip. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore but my favorite is Desolation Lake.

Desolation Lake, located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, is ideal for the beginner to moderate backpacker. The hike begins about 9.5 miles up the canyon at the Mill D North Fork Trailhead. Winding through Aspen Groves, meadows, and alongside the creek, make sure to stop and enjoy your surroundings. Also keep an eye out, as moose are often spotted along this trail.

At 7.8 miles round-trip and roughly 2,024 feet in elevation gain, you can start this trail in the late afternoon/early evening, set up camp, enjoy the stars and a campfire, and be back in your car by 11 am. Pick up the Salt Lake, Park City and Wasatch Trail Map on Amazon

27. Camping at Jordanelle State Park

If you are looking for places to go camping near Salt Lake City, Jordanelle State Park is the place to be. Less than 40 minutes from downtown Salt Lake, on the east side of the Wasatch mountain range, you can find even more to explore: the Uinta National Forest, Park City, and the East Canyon Reservoir.

For this trip, you’re heading to Jordanelle State Park. Tent sites at Jordanelle Campground are $20-$30 depending on the day, but you’ll want to book ahead to secure a site. The park is surrounded by hills and mountains, and with so many stars splayed out above you, it’s easy to forget how close you are to the city.

28. AQUA x ZONE

Once you’ve brewed your first cup of Caffe Ibis (made in Logan, UT), and are ready to start the day. Your options are endless at the AQUA X ZONE. At the Jordanelle Reservoir, you can rent stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, motorized boats, jet skis, and more. There’s also AQUA x ZONE, a floating water park on the lake, which is suitable for all ages, and if you aren’t a child, it’ll bring out the child in you.

29. Proper Brewing Company

This is an amazing place for a burger and brew. The proper brewing company is for carnivores, vegetarians, and vegans alike, Proper Brewing has a burger (and brew) for everyone. From the Hipster Burger (red onion jam, kale pesto, fresh herb cheese spread, garlic aioli, and spinach) to the Vegan Chili Cheese Burger (house-made vegan chili, vegan cheese, and red onion), you might be tempted to order two. You can also book this bike and brew tour to sample 3 to 5 different microbreweries in Salt Lake City.

Utah Liquor Law Loophole

Proper Brewing also keeps its store open on Sunday which is a loophole in Utah’s strange liquor laws. For beer lovers: Utah’s liquor code requires all draft beer to contain less than 3.4% alcohol content. So, if you’re looking for something stronger, spring for the can or bottled version.

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

For sightseeing in Salt Lake City, you’ll want to stay in Salt Lake City Center Hotels to be near the downtown tourist attractions of Temple Square, art galleries, and museums. Here are some suggested hotels to stay in Salt Lake City.

• Salt Lake City Marriott City Center – Located in the heart of the city, the Marriott City Center is near the Beehive House, Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and many of Salt Lake City’s top tourist attractions. View details on TripAdvisor / Booking.com
• Hilton Salt Lake City Center -Another great hotel in the city center that is close to attractions and offers beautiful views of Salt Lake City and the valley View details on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Things to do in Downtown Salt Lake City FAQ

Is the Salt Lake in Utah worth visiting?

Yes, the Great Salt Lake in Utah is definitely worth visiting. It’s known for its high salinity which allows you to float in the water, and its beautiful, ever-changing colors. It’s also a haven for millions of native and migratory birds, making it a unique spot for bird watching.

What is Salt Lake City known for?

Salt Lake City is known for several things including its outdoor recreation opportunities (skiing, hiking, biking), being the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Great Salt Lake, its historic architecture, and being the host of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games.

Can you walk around downtown Salt Lake City?

Yes, downtown Salt Lake City is very walkable. It features numerous attractions within walking distance of each other, including Temple Square, City Creek Center, and the Utah State Capitol. There are also numerous shops, restaurants, and public transportation options.

Can you swim in the Great Salt Lake?

Yes, you can swim in the Great Salt Lake. Its high salt content makes the water denser than freshwater, allowing swimmers to float easily. However, be aware that certain areas of the lake may be inaccessible depending on water levels and other conditions. Always check local advice before planning your swim.

Why you should visit Salt Lake City, Utah

With hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, and so much more, one weekend isn’t enough in Salt Lake City. There is so much to do northern Utah has to offer, it will leave you wanting more. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Salt Lake City trip today.

Note: This post was originally written by Megan Walsh who is a Salt Lake City resident and runs The Quirky Climber. When she’s not traveling, you can usually find her with a thermos in hand somewhere along the Wasatch Front. Follow her on Twitter: @megwalsh02. We have updated the content for this year.

When you think of Honolulu, you probably think of Koko Crater, Pearl Harbor, and Diamond Head – and maybe a few green sea turtles. Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii and is set on one of the best Hawaiian islands. Despite its city status, Honolulu is an absolute launchpad for exploring Oahu and all the Hawaiian islands. If you are catching an international flight, chances are you’ll be at least catching a connection in Honolulu. And there are so many things to do in Honolulu that you should stay for at least a few days.

Top Things to Do in Honolulu, Oahu

In this guide, we’ll cover the very best things to do in Honolulu. You can head to Oahu’s north shore for Honolulu attractions like Waimea Valley. Or stay central in the city center with Hawaiian culture at places like the Honolulu Museum of Art and Hawaii Heritage Center. Honolulu has a range – whether you use it as a base for tours and day trips or explore the city center on foot.

1. Go Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching from Honolulu

When envisioning visiting Hawaii, you are probably wondering whether there are dolphins in Honolulu. The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, going snorkeling and dolphin watching is one of the best things to do in Honolulu. Honolulu has a spinner, bottle-nose and rough-toothed dolphins along its shores. So, your chances of spotting dolphins on a tour are over 99%. Sky high.

Many dolphin watching tours from Honolulu allow you to swim with the spectacular marine animals in their natural habitat. You grab snorkeling gear and an underwater camera and head out on a boat with an expert. Usually, you don’t have to go far. But going dolphin watching is a fabulous way to combine a once-in-a-lifetime activity with some general island sightseeing.

The North Shore is incredibly scenic when observed from the water.’The North Shore is incredibly scenic when observed from the water. More details are here.

2. Diamond Head State Monument

Diamond Head State Monument is easily the most recognizable natural landmark in Honolulu. Diamond Head is a vast 475-acre site home to the colossal structure of the Diamond Head Crater. The volcano has been dormant for approximately 150,000 years, and many geologists believe it to be monogenetic. Monogenetic volcanoes usually only erupt once and Diamond Head has remained dormant ever since. Read more at 17 Best Hikes in Oahu Hawaii

Book this guided tour for a taste of Hawaii that includes starting with a hike up the Diamond Head Crater followed by a drive to the North Shore. More details here

Visiting Diamond Head State Monument is one of the best, most classic things to do in Honolulu. The best way to see it is to hike the Diamond Head Trail, which takes between 1.5 hours to complete. The stairs are steep, but you get stunning crater rim views. Or, if you are feeling really luxurious, you could book a helicopter tour for an aerial view – some Oahu helicopter tours even offer doors on or off experiences.

3. Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

Visiting Honolulu, Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial is a rite of passage. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is one of the most tragic World War II sites. It pays respects to the soldiers that died in an attack on a US naval base. Orchestrated by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service, it is one of the most heinous attacks in all of world war history. The tragedy is considered one of the most impactful events of the world war. And visiting in person is a humbling, historical experience.

Both national memorials have museums that are free to enter. The National Park Service offers daily tours and programs should you want a more immersive insight into the tragedy. The informative aspect makes a huge difference in our opinion, providing an opportunity to visit a tragic site and learn.

Get your tickets in advance and guarantee your entry. Tickets include boat ride to the USS Arizona, a tour of the visitor’s center, and short film. This includes free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance

4. Spend an Evening at the Paradise Cove Luau

Culture is a must when visiting Honolulu. And to embrace authentic Hawaiian culture, you can spend an evening at the Paradise Cove Luau. A luau is a traditional, festive Hawaiian feast with music and dancing. Luaus are celebratory in Hawaiian culture and have been used for centuries to celebrate things like weddings, birthdays, and even victories in battle.

The Paradise Cove Luau is approximately 3-hours long and includes food and drink. The event is held at Ko Olina Resort, and guests can marvel at performances from fire and hula dancers. The atmosphere of celebration is totally infectious. And if you want a cultural way to spend an evening, visiting the Paradise Cove Luau is one of the best things to do in Honolulu.

Secure your set at book in advance here – Enjoy a welcome Mai Tia and buffet dinner as you watch the sunset and entertainment. Luau includes hula dancers, fire twirlers, and Hawaiian musicians. Optional round trip transportation can be booked from your hotel.

5. Relax at World-Famous Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach, and indeed the Waikiki District as a whole, are immensely famous for surfing. The palm-lined shores backed by rows of glitzy high-rises might look inconspicuous. However, Waikiki Beach was home to the world-famous surfer Duke Kahanamoku. Surfers flock worldwide to try its surf for themselves.

Surfer or not, you can enjoy the Waikiki Beach scenes. Waikiki Beach has stunning views of Diamond Head. Plus, you can watch the surfers shredding and ripping the waves. The water is such a beautiful, pastel shade of light blue – a beautiful backdrop for a free surfing show.

6. Enjoy Snorkeling with Sea Turtles on the North Shore

‘Spot green sea turtles’ is on most people’s to-do lists. And Oahu is the perfect place to tick off your snorkeling with sea turtles dream. While technically, this isn’t one of the things to do in Honolulu, it is an easy day trip up to the North Shore and its sea turtle hot spots. Laniakea Beach (unsurprisingly named Turtle Beach) is the best spot for spotting sea turtles, who often laze along the beach. If you pack snorkeling gear, you can take to the waters too to see if you get lucky with any swimming nearby.

Laniakea Beach is mainly a hot spot for Hawaiian green sea turtles. This turtle is native to Hawaii and weighs over 300 pounds – they are the world’s largest hard-shelled sea turtles, often growing up to four feet in length. Definitely bring a waterproof camera (GoPro is our top choice) and snorkeling gear for this activity. Or book an organized tour and let somebody else do the planning.

7. Join a Circle Island Tour from Honolulu

Circle island tours are one of the most popular things to do in Honolulu. They are a great idea if you only visit Oahu for a few days. A circle island tour runs from the Polynesian Cultural Center (more on that later). It takes visitors around the highlights of Oahu in a jam-packed full-day tour. Starting at 6:45 am, you won’t return to your hotel until the late evening. But honestly, the amount of Oahu attractions you tick off makes it worthwhile.

Circle island tours include Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay Lookout, the Dole Plantation, Pali Lookout, North Shore beaches, and more. It gets its name simply because the tour completes a full circle of Oahu. Time-effective and exciting, a circle island tour from Honolulu is easily one of the best things to do if you are short on time.

This highly rated 10-hour tour takes you on a journey to see all the top Honolulu attractions including Amelia Earhart Point, Halona Blowhole, “From Here to Eternity” Beach, and Valley of the Temples. This tour includes lunch at Fumis Shrimp Stand and then more sightseeing in the afternoon to Waimea Valley, the Arboretum, and Dole Pineapple Plantation. More Details here.

8. Go Hiking at Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops a staggering 150 feet in a dramatic single drop. It is the sort of waterfall that influencers flock to pose in front of for pictures and is an absolute natural landmark to visit from Honolulu on a day trip. Manoa Falls Trail is the way to access the falls. The 1.6-mile Manoa Falls Trail takes approximately an hour to complete as a round-trip. It leads hikers through the aesthetic bamboo jungle and tropical scenery.

While you can technically swim in Manoa Falls, we wouldn’t recommend it. As a word of warning, it does carry a threat of Leptospirosis, which can cause you flu-like symptoms for up to two weeks – not what you need for your trip. Stick to photographing the falls instead, and you’ll have a better time.

9. Street Art in Downtown Honolulu

Downtown Honolulu is an absolute hot spot for street art. The little neighborhoods, like Kaka’ako, dotted around the outskirts of Downtown, are full of colorful street art. The best way to embrace it is to simply explore the Downtown areas on foot, discovering street art accidentally as you go. Or alternatively, book a street art tour and squeeze all the best sites into a few hours. This way, you get expert information on the artwork too.

Whether you explore street art independently or by tour, it is a fantastic way to embrace the artistic side of Honolulu. Grab a coffee and take your time. Admiring, photographing, and interpreting street art is one of the best things to do in Honolulu.

10. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a beautiful park famous for its coral reefs and marine life. If you want a snorkeling spot with colorful and varied underwater scenery, Hanauma Bay is your best bet. You can see so many different types of tropical fish and plant life. And besides, the curved sands and bright green shape of the Hanauma Bay Ridge jutting up makes it one of the most aesthetic snorkeling spots you could ever choose.

Book this highly rated tour to avoid parking and driving hassles. This professional tour includes snorkeling gear, and round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels. More details here.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a beautiful place to visit from Honolulu. The best thing is that it is just a 20-minute drive from Honolulu city center, located on the city’s far east outskirts. The journey is an hour and 20 minutes by public transport but only involves a single bus – nice and convenient.

11. Shop at the Ala Moana Center

A benefit of a city break is the retail opportunities. Who doesn’t love a bit of shopping as a holiday treat? This four-level shopping center is packed with stores and food courts. The vibe is upscale, and you’ll find stores like Gucci along its shiny corridors. So there is a chance for luxury designer shopping if that’s what you are into. However, it does balance out a little. There are more affordable shops and independent gift shops for picking up Honolulu souvenirs as well.

Ala Moana Center is one of the best things to do in Honolulu on a rainy day, too, since it is entirely covered and indoors. If you stumble on a bad weather day, jot down Ala Moana Center as a top Honolulu attraction.

12. Visit the Iolani Palace

The Iolani Palace is one of the most essential historical things to do in Honolulu. The 19th-century palace is the home of Hawaii’s last monarchs and is a time capsule of vital Hawaiian history. Queen Liliuokalani was the final monarch on the Hawaiian throne and was overthrown by a military coup in 1893. The trend towards pro-American sentiment meant that the Queen’s rejection of the constitution placing limits on her powers quickly turned her enemies sour. The dramatic exit of the monarch from Ionali Palace is an essential part of Hawaiian history and important for visitors to fully understand and acknowledge.

Iolani Palace now runs tours and exhibits throughout the grounds. The palace has undergone meticulous restoration and is like a time capsule to its early days.

13. Polynesian Cultural Center

Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the best things to do in Honolulu to embrace Hawaiian culture in a single experience. The center is a colossal venue dedicated to preserving the country’s culture and heritage practices. You can book to experience luaus and other exciting live shows. Or alternatively, book tours that leave from the Polynesian Cultural Center and whisk you around Oahu on a mission to sightsee and connect with the island.

The Polynesian Cultural Center does a precious job in terms of cultural preservation. It is also fascinating for tourists as it always has something to experience, learn, and appreciate. Located right in the center of Honolulu, it is easy to access on foot or public transport, depending on your location.

14. Taste Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery

Malasadas are a traditional Portuguese doughnut and an absolute must-try for any visitors to Honolulu with a sweet tooth. Why are malasadas considered authentic Hawaiian cuisine, you might rightfully wonder? Well, malasadas were brought over by Portuguese laborers who came to work on the Hawaiian plantations around the late 1870s. The small, deep-fried doughnuts are famous for their fluffy center. Sometimes they come with fillings, and occasionally plain – just coated in a sugar dusting. Honestly, they are delicious either way.

Leonard’s Bakery is situated on Kapahulu Avenue, right in the middle of the city center, so it is easy to access. The bakery has been baking sweet treats since 1952 and is considered a historic venue in the city.

15. Relax at Kuhio Beach Park

Relaxing at Kuhio Beach Park is one of the most laid-back things to do in Honolulu. If you choose the right section of beach, protected by a large pier, the water is so calm that it is perfect for swimming. You can take a serene dip and sunbathe on the shores with a book. Or alternatively, you can walk further along the beach to watch the surfers in the rougher section. Whether you want to relax swimming or relax surfer watching, Kuhio Beach Park is a chilled place to head with a friendly atmosphere.

The beach park is also backed by the scenic Sheraton Boardwalk. If you want more active relaxation, grab a coffee and take a sunny stroll along the boardwalk with ocean views.

16. Get Caffeinated at the Best Honolulu Coffee Shops

Hawaiian coffee is a big deal, and visiting coffee shops is one of Honolulu’s best things to do if you are a caffeine fan. Hawaiian coffee comes from many different beans. A popular type is Kona coffee, grown on two volcanoes on the nearby Big Island. Kona coffee is often described as caramel or chocolate flavored. And the coffee is so sought-after that it is one of the most expensive coffees in the world.

A prime spot to sample this national delicacy is at Honolulu Coffee Experience Center. Visitors can observe the roasting process and try out some of the best brews with a coffee-tasting experience. Of course, a gift shop and cafe are onsite if you want to try a brew properly or purchase anything as a souvenir.

17. Marvel at the Halona Blowhole

Halona Blowhole is really cool. Located on the far outskirts of Honolulu, it takes around 20 minutes to drive or approximately 2 hours by public transport. The blowhole is worth the journey, though, as it shoots water up to 30 feet into the air. The seawater is pushed through a lava tube at force, which channels it into a scenic cove at pressure – exploding impressively into the air. As far as natural attractions go, this one is enjoyable.

You’ll find the Halona Blowhole Lookout next door to the blowhole site. We suggest heading here for the best views. Try to visit at high tide for the best, most impressive water explosions. And make sure to bring a camera and plenty of patience. Watching the blowhole is a lot like watching a geyser erupt. It isn’t always predictable when it will explode.

18. Honolulu Museum of Art

Honolulu Museum of Art is situated in the middle of Honolulu city center, right next to Thomas Square. It is a really substantial gallery, with over 50,000 pieces of artwork for you to admire. Again, keep the Honolulu Museum of Art in mind for a rainy day or even an oppressively hot midday. Entirely indoors and in the shade, it is a perfect indoor activity in Honolulu.

The Honolulu Museum of Art isn’t one of those haughty museums suited only to art enthusiasts. The museum is well-suited to anyone with an eye for aesthetics or an interest in Hawaiian art and history. The museum has a mix of paintings, sculptures, and general artifacts. There are some big names, too, with artwork from Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The combination of local artists and huge names is a unique balance. Don’t forget to leave time for a coffee at the end – the best way to process all the artwork you’ve admired.

19. Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is a 4000-acre nature retreat. And as if that wasn’t impressive enough, it is also where certain scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. Most of Jurassic Park was filmed on the nearby island of Kauai, but Kualoa Ranch was used for specific scenes like the stampede. If Kualoa Ranch’s scenery is good enough for Hollywood, it is definitely good enough for visitors to Honolulu. Better yet, it is just a single, one-hour bus journey from Honolulu city center or a 30-minute drive if you rent a car.

At Kualoa Ranch, you can sightsee the beautiful landscape and movie scenes. You can also ride on its zipline or take an ATV tour around the retreat. It is an exciting place to visit with stunning views, and you can’t be disappointed by its classic, bright green mountains.

20. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is one of the most stunning lookouts in all of Oahu, if not Hawaii. You get views of the coastline, surrounding green mountains, and dizzying cliffs below from the fenced vantage point. It is also of important historical significance, marking the site of a legendary 1795 battle.

A warrior named Kamehameha began an ambitious mission to take over all the Hawaiian islands in 1783. When the king of Oahu died in 1794, his two sons started a civil war for the crown. Kamehameha heard of the conflict and arrived in Oahu ready to take advantage of the monarchy’s weak position. A battle arose, and eventually, the Oahu warriors ended up in a compromised position – trapped between Kamehameha and his army and the cliffs by the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. The skulls later found at the bottom of the cliffs show that over 800 warriors perished, falling to their deaths.

The Pali Lookout is an important activity when visiting Honolulu. The importance of Hawaiian history and the Oahu scenery’s vantage point makes it one of the most popular things to do in Honolulu.

21. Bishop Museum

The ‘Bernice Pauahi’ Bishop Museum is a specialty museum in the center of Honolulu. The museum was founded by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who was the royal family’s last descendant. The Bishop Museum is packed with heirlooms from the Hawaiian Royal Family. It is one of the most important slices of history in the archipelago. The story behind the Bishop Museum makes it even more endearing – created out of love, adoration, and recognition of not only a wife but a rightful monarch.

It is not only royal history but also a natural history and cultural museum. You’ll find natural history specimens and cultural artifacts, not just nods to the Hawaiian monarchy.

22. Corsair Wreck Dive Site

Scuba diving down to the Corsair Wreck site is one of the most unusual things to do in Honolulu. The WWII aircraft was a tragedy, now turned artificial reef and place of environmental protection. While the pilot survived, the aircraft could not be brought to the surface and remained sunk, non-buoyant, at the bottom of the sea despite remaining perfectly intact. However, what was a frustrating loss of equipment is now a beautiful dive site.

The Corsair Wreck is home to eels, tropical fish, and coral. Sometimes, divers can also catch glimpses of larger marine life, like passing dolphins or sea turtles. The wreck is eerie. Basically, you are in for a real treat if you’ve never seen an aircraft wreck before. The wreck is definitely atmospheric. You’ll have to be an advanced diver, too, since you’ll be tackling strong currents and dropping to a depth of around 100ft.

23. Trek Along the Koko Crater Trail

The Koko Crater Trail is frequently named as one of the top things to do in Honolulu. Don’t be fooled; this trail is not for the faint-hearted. The route takes you up an abandoned railway track and takes around 30 minutes if you are fully fit. This crater trail is notoriously challenging but scenic and impressively uses thousands of railway ties to provide a ladder-like contraption to assist hikers to the top.

It is not only the challenge and novelty of the hike that makes it worthwhile, though. The Koko Crater Summit is stunning, and you get beautiful views over Honolulu Harbor below.

24. Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design

Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design is entirely created from the heiress Doris Duke’s private collection of Islamic art. Called the Museum of Islamic Art for short; this museum is set in a beautiful estate – giving it a residential, intimate feel. You can take guided tours around the collection from Wednesdays to Saturdays between 9 am and 1:30 pm. There are exhibitions dotted around the estate if you want to experience things more independently.

The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art is definitely one for art enthusiasts. You must appreciate the story behind the collection and the pieces’ rarity to get the most out of this attraction.

25. Aloha Tower

Aloha Tower is iconic. The 10-story lighthouse is one of Honolulu’s most recognizable structures. It dates back to 1926, so it is revered as historical architecture. You can, of course, admire the Aloha Tower from outside at street level. However, to really experience the building, we suggest heading up to the 10th-floor observation deck. You get a taste of the Aloha Tower interior and fantastic views over Honolulu from here. The observation deck wraps 360 degrees around the top of the tower, leaving you with pretty unlimited views.

26. Waiola Shave Ice

Trying shave ice, otherwise known as Hawaiian shave ice, is one of the tastiest things to do in Honolulu. The recipe is a delicious concoction of shaved ice mixed with syrup and sugar. The ice comes in different flavors and colors, served in a little cone with a spoon. Rather than being watery like a slushie, shaved ice is more crisper and delicate. The result is something much like ice cream but more refreshing and intense in flavor. Unsurprisingly, it is a massive hit amongst both tourists and locals.

Waiola Shave Ice is a tiny grocery store renowned for its shave ice. It is situated in the McCully-Moiliili neighborhood of central Honolulu. It is easily spotted by its giant shaved ice statues outside.

27. Have a Picnic at Sans Souci Beach Park

A picnic at San Souci Beach Park is one of the highlights of an ideal Honolulu itinerary. San Souci Beach is a beautiful inner-city spot for sunbathing and paddling. But the stretch of wooded, bright green parkland behind it is much better suited for picnicking and finding shade. Find a shady spot under the trees and throw down a blanket to enjoy your snacks with views of the promenade and ocean in the distance.

Embracing the slow pace of life in Hawaii is really important – even if you stay in the metropolis of Honolulu. Take some time for a relaxing activity like watching the sunset or going for a picnic and Sans Souci Beach Park, and you’ll make the most of your trip.

28. Honolulu’s Chinatown

Despite being a neighborhood rather than an attraction, we just had to include Honolulu’s Chinatown on our list of things to do in Honolulu. The area is best experienced on foot, with rows and rows of Chinese markets, eateries, and architectural features to admire. Chinatown in Honolulu is as much an atmosphere as a standard attraction.

We suggest picking one of the traditional Chinese restaurants for dinner to get the most out of Chinatown. You could then catch a performance at the Hawaii Theatre Center or stop by one of the area’s leading art galleries.

29. Shop and Eat at the Royal Hawaiian Center

The Royal Hawaiian Center is another top-tier shopping center for you to consider when visiting Honolulu. Slightly different from the Ala Moana Center, the Royal Hawaiian Center only caters to a luxury crowd retail-wise – unless you want to window shop. It sells countless pieces of beautiful jewelry and luxury items. So if you want to pick up a sentimental piece of jewelry, the Royal Hawaiian Center is a fantastic place to visit.

Aside from jewelry and other retail areas, the Royal Hawaiian Center has many food stores and eateries. One of the most popular is the Cheesecake Factory. But honestly, take your time to wander around them all and pick a few different places to try some foods.

30. KCC Farmers’ Market

Will you be in Honolulu on a Saturday while visiting? If so, the KCC Farmer’s Market is an excellent activity in the morning. The market sells local produce and flowers from 7:30 am until 11 am. You can’t go wrong for that romantic farmer’s market experience. If you are in self-catered accommodation, you can pick up fresh produce for tasty meals. You can even pick up some flowers to brighten up your hotel room and press them as a souvenir to take home.

The best thing about KCC Farmer’s Market is that you can easily tick it off first thing in the morning and then spend the rest of your Saturday at a different attraction. As an early morning activity, it is one of the best things to do in Honolulu. You can even pick up fresh breakfast there.

31. Koko Crater Botanical Garden

Koko Crater Botanical Garden is within 200 acres of the Koko Crater and covers 60 acres of plants, including cacti. The garden is sometimes nicknamed Honolulu botanical gardens, one of the most popular Honolulu attractions amongst nature lovers. You can enjoy the botanical garden by hiking a 2-mile loop trail, which whisks you past all the prettiest plant life.

While visiting the Koko Crater Botanical Garden, you can hike up the Koko Crater Stairs to the summit for spectacular views. The two attractions fit perfectly together in terms of practicality. You might want to tackle this first. The pretty plant life and photogenic cacti will be welcome as peaceful, relaxing things to spot after you’ve successfully mastered the Koko Crater Stairs.

32. Ala Moana Regional Park

Ala Moana Regional Park is a 100-acre park that spills onto the shores of Ala Moana Beach, a man-made beach with highly calm waters that people flock to for swimming. The atmosphere is laidback and family-friendly. The park has plenty of well-maintained hiking paths and even a tennis court. If you want somewhere to visit central Honolulu during the day, there’s plenty to do in Ala Moana Regional Park. In short, it’s ideal for a stroll in the sun or a relaxed day out with a book if you prefer sunbathing.

Another massive bonus is that Ala Moana Regional Park is right off Ala Moana Boulevard. So if you wish, you can combine this significant urban attraction with a more laidback retreat into nature. As another top tip, Ala Moana Regional Park has beautiful cityscape views at night. Keep that in mind for a late-night view.

33. Catch Sunset at Magic Island

Magic Island is a beautiful man-made peninsula. The island juts out from the coastline of Honolulu. It is easily reached from the city center on foot or by public transport. Magic Island is home to Ala Moana Beach Park but is also one of the best sunset spots in Honolulu.

You can walk the network of scenic trails around Magic Island, which are beautiful at sunset and dusk. Or, we suggest packing a picnic and setting up camp on one of the grassy areas around the island. You can watch the sunset over the ocean, Ala Moana Beach, and the Honolulu cityscape. Bring a camera and a warm jacket or blanket – that way, you’ll enjoy the views for as long as the sunset lasts.

Things to Do in Honolulu: FAQs

Feeling up to scratch on your knowledge of the most amazing things to do in Honolulu? This is the most exciting part of your holiday: researching and planning attractions you’ll remember forever. Honolulu has varied attractions – with urban areas like Chinatown and natural regions too, including some of Oahu’s best hikes on its doorstep.

But chances are you still have questions about visiting Honolulu from a practical perspective. These are the answers to the questions on the tip of your tongue.

How to Get to Honolulu

To get to Honolulu, you’ll have to fly (unless you play it really unorthodox, but we’ll get to that later). The easiest way to get to Honolulu is to fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. And if you are flying from the US or Pacific region, you’ll likely find a direct flight.

Some people may arrive in Honolulu as part of a cruise. If you just want a taster of the city, you can plan to book a cruise that incorporates a stop at Honolulu in its itinerary. Alternatively, you could arrange to terminate your cruise at Honolulu, disembarking and enjoying a holiday at the other end. For the really adventurous, using a cruise to reach Honolulu makes your journey more of an experience and incorporates different destinations along the way. A win, win, really.

Getting Around Honolulu

Generally, getting around Honolulu is a breeze using public transport. TheBus is a bus system that runs throughout the city. As of 2023, prices start at less than $3 for a one-way journey – making it exceptionally budget-friendly. To capitalize on these low costs even more, you might purchase a HOLO pass, which cuts costs even further by introducing a cap of around $5 per day. Using TheBus is perfect. You can travel all around Honolulu and even to some of the major areas on the rest of the island, including the iconic Oahu’s north shore.

The only time public transport isn’t ideal is when you are reaching more remote areas. For instance, when trying to get to trailheads or lesser-visited attractions. In these cases, you are best hiring a car. Fortunately, this is easily done. If you plan a rough itinerary in advance, you can always hire a car for a day to cut costs and be more environmentally friendly. A car gives you tons more freedom and is generally quicker than local buses. So it might also be better for those only visiting for short periods.

If you are staying in one specific area of Honolulu (like Downtown Honolulu or Honolulu’s Chinatown), you find it easy to explore on foot. You can easily get around on foot by choosing the accommodation location wisely. And then just use a car or public transport to ‘connect the dots’ when traveling further afield. Compare car rental prices here.

Best Time to Visit Honolulu

April is the optimal month to visit Honolulu. Not only is it outside of the November to March rainy season, but it is also a shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists. April is hot, with temperatures of around 84 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also outside the June to November hurricane season, which is good to avoid if you don’t want to risk abandoning your holiday halfway through.

If you can’t visit Honolulu in April, we’d recommend September. While you take a slight risk by visiting during hurricane season, it has good weather and fewer crowds – also an ideal shoulder season. So if you can’t make April work, September is the second best time to visit Honolulu.

Can you do Honolulu in 4 days?

Yes, you can do Honolulu in 4 days. With 4 days, you can visit a handful of museums and take at least one day trip to nearby attractions in other areas of Oahu.

What is Honolulu best known for?

Honolulu is best known for being the hub of the Hawaiian islands. Most people arrive or transit there and have a citified, culture-heavy atmosphere.

How many days is good for Honolulu?

4 days is a good minimum for visiting Honolulu. However, you could easily spend a week in Honolulu if you plan day trips and tours.

Is 3 days in Hawaii enough?

3 days in Hawaii is not enough. Sure, visiting briefly is better than not visiting at all. But staying for 3 days will drastically limit your experience and not let you see all the best Hawaiian attractions.

To Conclude

There are so many things to do in Honolulu. And even if you manage to tick all of the fantastic things to do in the Hawaiian capital off, there’s plenty to do on the island of Oahu. 

We love the variety of activities and attractions that Honolulu offers. Despite being such a vital, functional city for the Hawaiian archipelago, it has plenty of nature and authentic culture. Honolulu is far from an industrialized stopover point. Just seeing pictures of Diamond Head and the tropical fish in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve tells you that.

Atlantic City is a sprawled resort city on the east coast of the U.S. A fantastic day trip from New York and a wonderful place to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean. Atlantic City is packed with resort activities, casinos, and watersports. It has the glitz and glam of a coastal Las Vegas – with more things to do off the strip. Walk the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, soak up live entertainment at Borgata Hotel Casino, and embrace Atlantic City’s history with Absecon Lighthouse.

Top Things To Do In Atlantic City NJ

Visiting Atlantic City is the perfect way to spend a more citified New Jersey beach town break. The balance between the Atlantic Ocean, beach activities, and inner-city entertainment is ideal. This guide will cover the best things to do in Atlantic City, so prepare to write these down.

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

When it comes to its boardwalk, Atlantic City really comes into its own. The 4.8-mile stretch between Jackson Avenue and Madison Avenue at the historic Gardner’s Basin. It encompasses stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the A.C. beaches and easy access to casinos, hotels, and attractions. The famous boardwalk is family-friendly, suitable for pushchairs, and splitting into smaller sections more suitable for children’s capabilities. It is one of the best free things to do in Atlantic City and perfect to combine with other attractions since walking the boardwalk is a popular way to get around.

2. Dolphin Watch With Atlantic City Cruises

Going dolphin watching with Atlantic City Cruises is one of the top things to do in Atlantic City. This area is renowned for its bottle-nosed dolphins. And from May to October, you can hop on daily dolphin-watching excursions that last around an hour. Should you get lucky (and most people do), the dolphins will come to your boat to play by the hern. Investing in ethical animal encounters is essential. Seeing dolphins in the wild is the kindest way to interact with these magnificent animals.

3. Atlantic City Airshow

Hundreds of planes zip through the skies above the city every summer for the annual Atlantic City Airshow. Spectators can purchase tickets and numerous vantage points throughout the city – or flock to the beaches and boardwalk to watch for free. The Atlantic City Airshow is one of the largest in North America and easily one of the most fun things to do. If you are visiting around August, it’s well worth seeing if your visit coincides with this airshow. And if you love planes and paying respects to the U.S. Army, consider the Atlantic City Airshow when choosing your dates to visit the city.

4. Ocean Casino Resort

Visiting a casino is one of the most popular ways to spend an evening in Atlantic City. And this famous venue is an ideal candidate if you have a luxury casino environment. The five-star hotel sits on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, hosting one of the city’s largest, award-winning casinos. There are thousands of slot machines and table games. If you want to enjoy a casino regularly during your visit, you can make the most of the Ocean Casino Resort rewards card. There are even fine dining venues in the resort to enjoy after you collect your winnings – we suggest Linguini By The Sea for its ocean views and Italian cuisine.

6. Central Pier Arcade

The Central Pier Arcade is chaotic. Pure chaos. However, it is also all fun and games. There are pinging machines with flashing lights, and the constant clatter of penny falls, while outside, a vast outdoor go-karting track is a hit amongst adults and kids. A seaside arcade is one of the most classic things you can do on any beach getaway. And when visiting, the arcade is one of the best things to do in Atlantic City for a lowkey few hours. The arcade is family-friendly but also suited to adults just wanting to let their hair down. Located along the main boardwalk, it’s easy to just drop by on your way back to your hotel after eating at a nice restaurant.

7. Atlantic City Experience At Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall

Ready for an insight into Atlantic City’s earlier days? The Atlantic City Experience, held in the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, which was home to the Miss America pageant since 1940, is a colossal project encapsulating the area’s history. From photographs to live exhibits and virtual clips, the Atlantic City Experience is easy to browse.

Opening times vary (this attraction is a social butterfly for hosting private events). But if you want history without the heavy reading and dense information (check out the Atlantic City Historical Museum for that), the Atlantic City Experience is ideal. Light-hearted but informative, Atlantic City Experience is one of the best indoor attractions in the city. And, since it’s adjoined to the Atlantic City Free Public Library, you can easily combine the two.

8. Absecon Lighthouse

You can’t visit Atlantic City and not visit New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. Absecon Lighthouse is the most historical of all the Atlantic City attractions. As a national historic landmark, it’s definitely worth your time. You can climb the lighthouse right to the top for stunning views over the city and the Atlantic Ocean and learn about its history. The climb to the top is no mean feat – with 228 steps to the watch room. And as a tradition, the lighthouse is still lit every night despite being retired from duties. The adjoining museum is a lovely addition to the experience, with a gift shop for souvenir shopping. Located at 31 S Rhode Island Ave.

9. Atlantic City Ballet

Atlantic City Ballet is a highly respected ballet school in the city’s heart. The school’s founder was an international ballerina named Phyllis Papa, who opened Atlantic City Ballet in 1982. The school has grown in prestige ever since. For visitors, bagging tickets to one of the dance shows is one of the most beautiful things to do in Atlantic City. The school hosts shows that include The Nutcracker, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and even Dracula. There’s a range of genres and storylines. Ballet enthusiast or not, the sophistication of a ballet show is hard not to love.

10. Steel Pier Amusement Park

Steel Pier Amusement Park is like something out of a movie. Envision gold-gilded fairground rides and a huge Ferris wheel that lights up against the sky. Steel Pier is easily amongst the best amusement parks you’ll visit, and the oceanfront locale makes it even more impressive. Visiting Steel Pier is one of the best family-friendly activities in Atlantic City. And since it’s located on the boardwalk, you can use it as the ultimate bribery for getting your kids to walk more. Tickets are relatively modest in pricing, although you can also splurge on a luxury helicopter ride for 20 minutes. So there’s room for indulgence.

11. Try a Frozen Hot Chocolate

Remember that Ocean Casino Resort? If the casino doesn’t catch your fancy, frozen hot chocolate surely will. Serendipity3 is a dining experience within the resort and offers the famous dish as just one of the sweet treats on its menu. Frozen hot chocolate is basically a cold, slushier version of hot chocolate. So what’s the hype? The real melted chocolate and cocoa powder. Rather than relying on ice cream like a chocolate milkshake, it uses all the yummy ingredients that you’d find in its hot alternative. It’s a subtle difference, but you’ll be a total convert when you try it. Serendipity3 has quite the cult following and has a long trail of celebrity endorsements – including recent investor Selena Gomez.

12. Lucy the Elephant

Lucy the Elephant is a colossal building with the bizarre design of a giant elephant. Nicknamed ‘Lucy,’ this rather strange landmark is one of the quirkiest things to do in Atlantic City. The whole family will love gazing up at this landmark. But a step further, you can tour the inside of the 6-floor building as part of a guided experience. Apart from the novelty of Lucy’s appearance, the Elephant is also classified as the oldest roadside attraction in the U.S. – having been created in 1882 and visited ever since. Probably one of the weirdest buildings you’ll ever step foot in, Lucy the Elephant should make everyone’s itinerary when visiting Atlantic City.

13. Tanger Outlets

Sometimes retail is all you need. Even on holiday, a day at a fantastic outlet store is good. Tanger Outlets has everything from Forever 21 to a Nike Factory Store and a Starbucks – for when you get thirsty. The stores sell clothing marginally cheaper than you find elsewhere, so it is a bargain-hunting experience. Tanger Outlets is just off Atlantic Avenue – easily accessed from the city center. Visiting is one of the best indoor things to do in Atlantic City.

14. Ocean City Music Pier

Okay, this attraction will require a 30-minute drive or an hour on public transport. So get your adventure on when adding this attraction to your to-do list. The Ocean City Music Pier is well worth the extra effort to reach. The pink concert hall is sat on a substantial wooden pier with sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. Located in the neighboring city of Ocean City, the music pier is a 1929 concert hall with various music performances showcased daily. If you love live music, it doesn’t get better than a trip to Ocean City Music Pier. Check the schedule to see if anything coincides with your trip.

15. Chicken Bone Beach

Chicken Bone Beach is one of the best Atlantic City beaches. The spacious sands and ideal location make it a firm favorite. But for all its good looks, Chicken Bone Beach has a marred history linked to America’s racist segregation. The once-segregated beach caught its name from the fact that African American beachgoers were said to bring a lot of fried chicken with them. And it was in the 1964 Civil Rights Act this Atlantic City Beach changed its rules and allowed everyone to enjoy its sands. The beach is one of Atlantic City’s historical landmarks as much as it’s a place to enjoy the coast on a sunny day.

16. Surf Lessons

Speaking of beaches, surfing is one of the best things to do in Atlantic City. The big waves of the Atlantic Ocean are practically made for shredding. You can find surf shops dotted along the boardwalk – selling everything from clothing to board rentals. Jersey Devil Surf Shop is a firm favorite. But if you want a lesson rather than just a rental, you’ll find plenty of options in Atlantic City and its surrounding areas. A.C. Surf School is popular, with many class choices depending on your budget and current skill level.

17. Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe

The Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe are one of the most famous brands across the world and the perfect attraction when visiting Atlantic City. Just the brand’s cafes alone attract nearly 80 million guests a year, and the rock ‘n’ roll theme really energizes its section of the Atlantic City boardwalk. Expect high energy and comforting American cuisine – with a menu full of meaty burgers and grilled dishes. The Hard Rock Hotel has a casino as well. And if you weren’t feeling like a crazy night out, walking into the doors under a colossal lit-up guitar will surely get you in the mood. The Hard Rock Hotel is fun and intense in the best way.

18. New Jersey Korean War Memorial

For a somber but important activity in Atlantic City, venture out to the New Jersey Korean War Memorial. The huge monument lists thousands of names on its inscribed stone. And to its sides, beautiful statues of realistic soldiers stand poised for action, symbolizing service, duty, and sacrifice. The bronze figures are a real highlight and bring an emotive human element to the memorial. While the waterfalls create peaceful background noise and ‘reflection pools’ for visitors to process the complex history.

19. Atlantic City Miniature Golf

On a more light-hearted note, Atlantic City Miniature Golf is one of the most fun things to do in Atlantic City. You’ll find classic attractions like mini golf whenever you visit a resort town or city. Mini golf is the ultimate cheesy attraction that everyone secretly loves (and gets extremely competitive over). Atlantic City Miniature Golf has been running for over 15 years and is a renowned attraction along the New Jersey shore. Head down for a few rounds and a bite to eat at the snack bar onsite.

20. Storybook Land

Just a 20-minute drive or 40-minute bus from the city center, you can hardly complain when venturing out to this dreamy amusement park. Storybook Land is an entire park based on nursery rhymes and children’s stories. You can spot everything from the old woman in the shoe to a sleeping beauty asleep in a replica room and Santa – who sometimes even pops in to offer to meet and greet services in July. The mixture of rides, replica settings, and meet-and-greet characters make visiting Storybook Land one of the most nostalgic things to do in Atlantic City.

21. Test Your Nerve With Watersports

Atlantic City’s watersports scene is incredible. In the summer season, Totally Tubular Watersports keeps everyone entertained with tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and even banana boats. You can test your nerves with the watersports you choose while enjoying the chance to cool off in the ocean and escape the heat. There’s also a pop-up inflatable play area in peak season for younger visitors. The play area floats on the water’s surface with slides and other obstacles that children must tackle – all while trying to avoid falling in.

22. The Noyes Art Garage of Stockton University

Atlantic City’s creative art district is alluring for anyone with an eye for beautiful things – not just art enthusiasts. In the district’s center, the Noyes Art Garage of Stockton University acts as a magnet, holding the creativity together. The gallery is affiliated with the university but runs as a full-blown tourist attraction. Dedicated to contemporary arts, it has exhibits to appreciate and art studios that members of the public can use. You can stop by to admire the art or create some yourself – one of the most creative things to do in Atlantic City.

23. Take A Fishing Tour

Atlantic City is an absolute hotspot for fishing. Fisherman haul in bluefish, tuna, blackfish, and cod on a reliable basis. There is an incredible amount of charter companies who take out visitors on fishing tours – either on deep-sea angles or partake in more sedate fishing experiences. While if you want, you can also choose companies that run beach fishing experiences. If you already have an affinity for fishing, this must be at the top of your bucket list.

24. U.S. Life Saving Station 30

This somber museum is a must-visit for insight into the surfmen who perform ocean rescues around Atlantic City. The museum has impressive stories of real-life heroes just a 30-minute drive from the city center. Guests can browse the collection of artifacts and some shocking photos of shipwrecks from years gone by. There’s even a massive boat in one of the exhibit halls. The guided aspect adds to the experience tenfold – with guides to provide emotive stories while you explore.

25. Bass River State Forest

Forget amusement parks and casinos for a day and head to Bass River State Forest for one of the best things to do near Atlantic City for a natural experience. The national forest is the total opposite of Atlantic City’s landscape. Instead of sand and skyscrapers, you can expect dwarf pine plains and cedar swamps. The state forest has 8 different hiking trails. And if you bring binoculars and a good camera, you can get good views of bald eagles and osprey. Bass River State Forest is so peaceful for animal watching and hiking.

26. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a massive 48,000 acres of coastal habitat – a mix of beach, wetland, and pasture. After all the time on the beach and in casinos, getting to a more rural area of nature is a wonderful thing to do in Atlantic City. Bring binoculars because the refuge is famous for migratory birds and one of the state’s best birding spots. The visitor center has exhibits, Wildlife Drive has ample bird-watching stops, and the hiking trails stretch around 8 miles.

Things To Do In Atlantic City: FAQs

So, you are well and truly stocked up regarding ideas on things to do in Atlantic City. But what else do you need to know? What are the essential details to learn before visiting Atlantic City? Check these out.

How To Get To Atlantic City

The easiest way to get to Atlantic City is to fly into Atlantic City’s primary airport. The airport is in the Egg Harbor Township, just 10 miles from the Atlantic City center. While it lacks direct flights for international visitors, you can find plenty of domestic flights. International visitors will likely have to stop at a major city like New York, Las Vegas, or Los Angeles before continuing to Atlantic City on a second leg. For domestic travelers, flying to Atlantic City is a breeze.

Another option is to catch the train, bus, or drive from New York – all of which take between 2-4 hours. If you drive from New York, you’ll likely cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge – one of the prettiest views of New York City. Driving is the quickest, allowing you to stop off at Staten Island and Brooklyn.

If you are staying elsewhere on the upper east coast, it’s well worth considering public transport as opposed to flying. Plenty of bus routes and train connections to Atlantic City – including from places like Philadelphia. And road-tripping to Atlantic City is always fun if you have some extra time on your hands – why not maximize your U.S. sightseeing?

Getting Around Atlantic City

Getting around Atlantic City on foot is terrific if you are fit enough. Adults and children alike will appreciate the scenic boardwalks that connect the beachfront and city center. Since most of the Atlantic City attractions and major hotels line the beachfront, you can use the Atlantic City Boardwalk to get around most of the city.

Even if you do get tired walking around Atlantic City, there’s a free shuttle service run by A.C. Jitney Association and N.J. Transit. While the shuttle runs between all the casino locations and the Atlantic City Rail Terminal, you can use it as a free way to experience most of the city. There are just that many casinos.

Honestly, you don’t need a car if you just want to stay in Atlantic City. But it may come in handy for day trips. If you have driven to Atlantic City, you can definitely make the most of having a car with you by heading out of the city center and to the surrounding New Jersey beach towns. Otherwise, take taxis and Uber if you need an emergency ride.

Best Time To Visit Atlantic City

Spring and summer are the best periods to visit Atlantic City. After all, it is a beach destination, and you want warm weather. To enjoy the hot weather and avoid the crowds, we recommend late March or early September. These shoulder seasons are perfect for getting the best out of Atlantic City. And outside of the peak summer period, humidity should be lower.

Is Atlantic City worth visiting now?

Yes, Atlantic City is worth visiting. The city is constantly expanding and improving with more and more exciting attractions and places to stay.

What is Atlantic City well known for?

Atlantic City is well known for boardwalks and casinos. As a city it is a place for a beach holiday and party experience at the casinos and dance clubs.

Is the Atlantic City Boardwalk free?

Yes, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is totally free.

Is there a strip in Atlantic City?

Atlantic City’s strip is just the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Along the boardwalk is where you’ll find all the best casinos and hotels.

To Conclude

Atlantic City has lots to offer, whether you hit up upscale restaurants, sightsee Atlantic City’s historical landmarks, or kick back with watersports on the beach. We love the combination of city and sand, and you will too. Its proximity to New York City makes it an absolute breeze to visit. After staying in New York, you can easily add Atlantic City as a beach break. Why not enjoy the Atlantic City Boardwalk or the Atlantic City Aquarium? Especially in summer. Atlantic City Aquarium

Have a fabulous stay in Atlantic City, and schedule as many of these most amazing Atlantic City attractions as possible.