Category: Travel

Ketchikan, Alaska is known as the Salmon Capital of the world, it houses the world’s largest collection of standing Totem Poles and it dubs itself Alaska’s First City. Ketchikan got its name because it is the first port of call for cruise ships in the state of Alaska as you Cruise North along the Inside Passage. There are plenty of things to do in Ketchikan and we’re going to highlight a few of its top attractions to help you decide what excursion to take if you are on a cruise, or what to see and do if you are traveling independently.

Top Things to Do in Ketchikan

We have visited Ketchikan three times and during our last trip, it was our last stop on our Alaskan Cruise with Holland America Lines. Our cruise ship, The Nieuw Amsterdam anchored steps away from downtown Ketchikan making for an easy tour of the town.

1. Black Bears Feeding on Salmon

Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” and for a good reason. Visitors can go salmon fishing in the many rivers, streams, and lakes that surround the town but if you really want to see something extraordinary, book a tour to see black bears feeding on spawning salmon.

The best time to see bears feeding in the streams is between July and September as they fatten up for their winter hibernation. This time of year, the streams are filled with salmon making their way upstream to spawn and lay their eggs. Once their eggs are laid, they stay in the streams to die. This creates a feast for the black bears. You can book this one of a kind trip in advance here.

When we visited in August, the bears had been eating so much that they weren’t even eating the full fish anymore, they were simply biting into them for their eggs. As our guide told us, the eggs are like their dessert.

Before the tour, we took a guided walk to learn about the bears. We saw where the bears sleep between feasts, and what they like to eat and we saw a few places where they have scratched and climbed up trees.

It is truly a fascinating tour with the star attraction being the 90 minutes at the hides where we watched half a dozen bears hunt and interact in their natural habitat. Details here.

2. Scenic Flight to Misty Fjords

During our trip to Neets Bay, we were treated to an extraordinary scenic flight. But you can book stand-alone scenic flights in Ketchikan and we highly recommend it. Ketchikan scenic flights take you over the forest and fjords of the Gulf of Alaska. You’ll get a stunning view of Ketchikan and the surrounding islands from the air, including the Tongass Narrows, Revillagigedo Island, and Gravina Island.

This 1 hour scenic flight takes you over sheer cliffs, waterfalls and the lakes of Misty Fjords. Window seat is guaranteed which is a bonus. One of the most breathtaking views is the Misty Fjords National Monument. This natural wonder has towering cliffs, pristine lakes, and lush forests.

Ketchikan is located in the Tongass National Forest which is the largest national forest in the United States. It covers much of Southeast Alaska and from the air, you can see the vast expanse of this incredible wilderness.

We saw waterfalls and we even saw a group of sea lions basking on an island during our flight. It is not uncommon to see whales from the seaplane. More details here.

3. Self-Drive Zodiac Adventure

One of the best tours we took in Ketchikan was the zodiac adventure. We were suited up with our rain gear and warm clothes before setting out on our own self-drive adventure. After a brief introduction, we followed our guide along the coast of Ketchikan through the Tongass Narrows in search of whales and bald eagles.

And we saw both! As we made our way out to open water, we spotted a humpback whale breaching in the distance. After watching in awe from our tiny vessels, we then set out closer to the shore to see the abundance of bald eagles. We even saw one dive for fish.

It was then more time zipping through the water riding the wake of our leader taking in the sites. We even stopped to let a float plane land before continuing on to dry land to enjoy smores by the campfire.

This excursion truly was a blast. It was pouring rain during our trip which made it even more fun as we cruised through the famous misty fjords of Ketchikan. Book the trip here.

4. Bear Watching

Seeing bears in the wild is one of the most magical experiences. Alaska has the densest population of bears in the world, and places the the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary and surrounding forests have a high concentration of Black Bears.

This highly rated tour offers black bear viewing without needing to get in a plane. Visit the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary where you’ll hike to an elevated boardwalk to watch bears from the safety of the raised platforms.

You’ll also go through the wetlands of Eagle Creek in search of bald eagles and other wildlife in the area. Book your tour here.

5. Misty Fjords National Monument Cruise

While seeing the Misty Fjords National Monument from above is amazing, one of the best ways to explore it is on a boat tour. Book this private small group tour to cruise past its glacial fjords, dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls. You’ll also be keeping an eye out for sea lions, whales, bears, and mountain goats.

Places that you will see are Rudyerd Bay, New Eddystone Rock, and Punchbowl Cove, and have a private commentary and tour as you cruise at your own pace. This 6 passenger bot cruise takes you by private charter to see the cliffs, whales and wildlife of the Misty Fjords to see Rudyerd Bay, New Eddystone Rock, and Punchbowl Cove

6. Go Shopping on Creek Street

We love historical Creek Street. It was pouring rain our first time in Ketchikan so we really didn’t understand just how picturesque this elevated boardwalk running along Ketchikan Creek is. That is until we finally explored it on a sunny day.

Creek Street is filled with boutique shopping, museums, and restaurants. The boardwalk was once the town’s red light district and there are still signs from the Gold Rush days of the 1890s.

The historic colorful buildings line the boardwalk along the water and look the same as they did in the 19th century. Take your time to enjoy the views from Creek Street and keep an eye out for salmon spawning in Ketchikan Creek. We even saw a sea lion swimming in the water.

7. Dolly’s House Museum

One of the buildings that really stands out on Creek Street is Dolly’s House Museum. This museum is located in the former home of Dolly Arthur, a famous madam who ran a brothel on Creek Street during the early 20th century. The museum offers a glimpse into the history of prostitution in Ketchikan and the life of Dolly Arthur.

8. Salmon Ladder

If you see a crowd gathering while looking at the creek, chances are you have come to Salmon Ladder. Creek Street is built over Ketchikan Creek, and during the summer months, you can watch salmon swimming upstream to spawn. The creek has a ladder that allows the fish to bypass a waterfall and continue upstream. So you will see a lot of them congregating right here.

9. Chief Johnston Totem Pole

The Chief Johnson totem pole is one of the tallest totem poles in the world, standing at 55 feet tall, and is a prominent landmark in the city. The totem pole was originally carved in the late 19th century by Tlingit artist Charlie Jones and stood in front of Chief Johnson’s house in Tongass.

You can’t miss seeing this work of ar, it stands at the entrance to historic Creek Street where it has become a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the region’s Native American heritage. The totem pole features a number of different figures, including an eagle, a bear, and a human figure, each with its own symbolic meaning.

10. Visit the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center

Ketchikan is filled with cultural and historical experiences and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is no exception. The museum showcases the history and culture of Alaska’s southeastern region through interactive exhibits.

One of the exhibits includes a simulated rainforest, a replica Tlingit longhouse, and displays about the region’s fishing and logging industries.

There is also a media center where visitors can watch films to learn about the history and culture of Alaska and its Indigenous people.

11. Tongass Historical Museum

If you want to see some more museums, or if it raining in Ketchikan (as it often does), The Tongass Historical Museum exhibits the town’s history and heritage. There is a free shuttle from the cruise ship port in the summer making it perfect for a rainy day.

12. Visit the Totem Heritage Center

One thing you’ll notice all around downtown Ketchikan are the totem poles. To learn more about them, the Totem Heritage Center is a must. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the art and history of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Peoples.

But what attracts many people to the museum is its impressive collection of totem poles, some of which are more than 150 years old. You will also see traditional masks, carvings, and art as well as exhibits showing the Indigenous culture of the area that includes traditional hunting and fishing.

The museum offers a range of educational programs, including workshops on traditional arts and crafts, guided tours, and cultural performances.

The Indigenous People have inhabited the Ketchikan area for thousands of years and visiting the Totem Heritage Center is an excellent way to gain a better understanding of their culture.

13. Take A Tour of the Salmon Hatchery

We had three tours in one while watching the bears feed as it took place at the Neets Bay Salmon hatchery (And we had a gorgeous scenic flight) If you can’t make the trip to Neets Bay, you may want to take a tour of a salmon hatchery downtown.

The Deer Mountain Hatchery and Eagle Center is focused on breeding salmon and releasing them into the waterways. Visitors can take tours to learn about the process and the importance of sustainable fishing practices. The hatchery also has a viewing area where visitors can watch the salmon as they swim upstream to spawn.

10. Eagle Center

Another popular attraction within the center is the Eagle Center which is home to several rescued eagles that are unable to survive in the wild due to injury or other factors. The center provides a safe and natural environment for the eagles and allows visitors to observe these majestic birds up close.

The Deer Mountain Tribal Hatchery and Eagle Center is an important cultural and educational center in Ketchikan, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about traditional indigenous practices and the local wildlife.

11. Tongass National Forest

The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States and covers over 17 million acres. When you visit Ketchikan, you can book tours to explore the forest’s vast wilderness and observe a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, and bald eagles.

There are plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and fishing spots within the Tongass National Forest that offer a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Alaska. This electric bike tour takes you through the town’s highlights followed by a trek through the wilderness. Book your tour here

12. Wildlife Tour of Ketchikan

Ketchikan is known for its abundant wildlife, so taking a wildlife tour is one of the best things to do in Ketchikan. You won’t be hard-pressed to spot bald eagles, black bears, humpback whales, and sea lions. Visitors can take a wildlife tour, where you can observe these animals in their natural habitat.

This whale and wildlife viewing trip is perfect for those with a short time and who want to see more in less time. The tour includes whale and wildlife viewing boat trip that includes snacks and non alcoholic drinks.

14. Saxam Native Village

The Saxman Native Village is a cultural center is located in the Saxman Village, which is a traditional Tlingit community that has been inhabited for thousands of years. The center showcases cultural performances and demonstrations. where visitors can watch traditional Tlingit dances, listen to Tlingit music, and see demonstrations of Tlingit arts and crafts.

The Saxman Native Village is home to the Saxman Totem Park, which features the largest collection of totem poles in Alaska. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn about the history and significance of the totem poles, as well as the culture and traditions of the Tlingit people. The park also features a replica Tlingit longhouse, where visitors can learn about traditional Tlingit life.

15. Totem Bight State Park

Another important place to visit in Ketchikan Alaska is Totem Bight State Park. The park is home to over a dozen totem poles that were either carved in the early 1900s or were created in the 1970s as part of a Works Progress Administration project. Each totem pole has a unique story and meaning, and there are informational signs that provide more information about each one.

The park offers guided tours and you’ll be able to watch cultural performances including traditional dance and music. This Ketchikan 4 in 1 Tour will meet you at your ship dock to take you on a journey through the highlights of Ketchikan including Creek Street, the Totem Parks, search for sea creatures in tide pools and a salmon hatchery.

18. Go kayaking

We have done a lot of kayaking in Alaska and it is one of the best tours you can book. Kayaking is a popular activity in Ketchikan, as the town is surrounded by water. Visitors can rent a kayak and explore the many coves, bays, and inlets that make up Alaska’s coastline but we suggest taking an organized tour for safety and to really experience the beauty of the landscape.

Kayaking is an excellent way to get up close to Alaska’s wildlife and to experience the beauty of the area’s scenery we have seen a lot from a kayak in Alaska and Ketchikan is an excellent place to have some encounters. You may have the opportunity see to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, seals, sea otters, and even whales. Because you are silently paddling through the water, chances of spying on wildlife are greatly increased.

This kayaking tour truly takes you off the beaten path. Take a high speed boat to Orca Cove and then paddle through the islands and coastal coves following an experienced guide. You’ll enjoy snacks on your boat ride back to town while keeping an eye out for wildlife.

19. Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

If you are looking for some fun entertainment in Ketchikan, check out the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. This is a battle between Alaska and British Columbia that takes place at Ketchikan’s Lumberjack Sports Arena.

The lumberjacks compete in events that celebrate their logging heritage. Things to expect to see are lumberjacks running across floating logs, chip and saw wood at lightning-fast speeds, an ax-throwing competition, and more. You’ll learn about lumberjack history and have a rip-roaring good time followed by a meal featuring Dungeness crab. Book your tickets in advance here.

20. Deadliest Catch Fisherman’s Tour

One of the more unique things to do in Ketchikan is to head out on the sea to get a feel of what life is like for fishermen in Alaska. Hop aboard the Aleutian Ballad fishing boat to cruise the Inside Passage. Seasoned fishermen haul their catch on deck as share their experiences and lore of the sea.

This tour is two trips in one as you keep an aye out for wildlife like whales, sea lions, and eagles. If you are a fan of the show on Discovery, you will love this tour. Get more details here.

21. Trolley Tour

If you simply want an overview of the town of Ketchikan, a trolley tour is a great option. The Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley takes you around in a San Francisco style trolley to see the Saxam Native Village and fish ladder. You may even spy bears, seals and a bald eagle ore two with a stop at the Herring Cove viewing area. Book your trolley tour here.

22. The Rock

Make sure to stroll along the waterfront of Ketchikan and keep an eye out for The Rock sculpture. The Rock is a beautiful piece of Alaskan art depicting the origins of Ketchikan City. It displays seven figures that represent the people who helped to build the city. Chief Johnson stands at the top surrounded by a native drummer, a frontierswoman, a minor, fisherman and a logger. This is one of the top stops for photographs.

About Ketchikan

We love Ketchikan. From its abundant wildlife to its rich history there is something for everyone. If you are looking to experience Alaska or an Alascan cruise, make sure to add Ketchikan to your list.

This small town in the southeastern part of Alaska, known for its high concentration of wildlife, totem poles, and its rich native culture. With a population of approximately 8,000, Ketchikan offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience with plenty of exciting activities and attractions to explore.

There is no denying that Ketchikan is a popular port of call for cruise ships, with several ships stopping in the city each day. Chances are you’ll be visiting Ketchikan by cruise ship. For us, each stop we made was by cruise ship, and while it took us a few trips to be able to experience a lot of Ketchikan Alaska, you can see a lot in a short time.

Downtown Ketchikan Map

It is easy to explore downtown in just a couple of hours if you don’t spend too long in museums.

If you choose a tour that combines a scenic flight with wildlife viewing, you’ll be able to have two tours in one. You’ll then have the rest of the afternoon to explore downtown Ketchikan and the former red-light district. You can probably even pop into Dolly’s House Museum for a quick tour.

Cruise Ships in Ketchikan

We took a Holland American Cruise that included a stop in Ketchikan and it was outstanding. Our ports of call on our cruise included Anchorage to Whittier, Juneau, Skagway and cruisin through the Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay, the Inside Passage and Vancouver. More details on our Yukon, Denali Land Tour with Holland America here.

The Cruise ship dock is located downtown and is just a short walk to the old red light district of Creek Street. Even if you don’t book a tour of Ketchikan, you’ll be able to experience a lot of this cool Alaskan Gold Rush town.

Have you been to Ketchikan? What is your favourite thing to do?

The New Orleans hotel scene is as funky and vibrant as the city itself. To keep up with the constant party culture, things to do, and deliciously spiced food, hotels need to be fresh and attention-grabbing in their own right. And that’s where boutique hotels in New Orleans come in. Choosing your ideal neighborhood is the essential first step so we’ve broken down . So check out these top areas in New Orleans before you stray any further into your boutique hotel search.

Where To Stay in New Orleans

New Orleans’ neighborhoods are part of what makes the city as brilliant as it is. The different identities of each district create distinct communities and specific atmospheres. So before you jump the gun and look at the best boutique hotels in New Orleans, we’ll pick the best neighborhood for you.

Central Business District

The Central Business District (aka Downtown New Orleans) is the epicenter of skyscrapers. Sleek and classy, it is the neighborhood for cocktails at rooftop bars and flashy luxury hotels. This is the best choice for a luxury stay in New Orleans or a metropolis atmosphere. Walking distance to Bourbon Street and waterfront, easy street car ride to Garden District.

French Quarter

The historic French Quarter needs little introduction. If you’ve seen pictures of New Orleans before, the French Quarter is likely the neighborhood you are already familiar with. It is famed for beautiful European architecture and ever-blaring nightlife on Bourbon Street. In the heart of all the action.

Combined with the street performers, a significant landmark of Jackson Square, and the shopping at French Market, the French Quarter is ideal for someone looking to embrace the intensity of New Orleans. The district is also known for the Tennessee Williams Festival, a real cultural hotspot.

Garden District

The Garden District, aka Uptown New Orleans, is residential, leafy, and idyllic. The lower Garden District is full of tree-lined streets and revival mansions. It has a peaceful atmosphere and is home to colleges and universities. It is where people sneak away for a bit of study time or peace and quiet within the four walls of a large, elegant mansion.

For families or non-party goers, the Garden District provides a fantastic escape from the chaos of the city’s busier areas. It’s also an easy street car ride to downtown and the French Quarter. Even if you don’t stay there, it’s so beautiful that we suggest taking a trip to visit.

Marigny/Bywater

Every city has that bohemian neighborhood. In New Orleans, that is Marigny and Bywater. These areas have a thriving arts and culture scene – in a much louder manner than the arts and warehouses district. Expect colorful creole cottages and shotgun homes rather than brick warehouses. And head to Frenchman Street for live music or St Claude Art District to taste what’s happening creatively in New Orleans. Walking distance to French Quarter and Waterfront.

Treme

Treme is the oldest African American neighborhood in New Orleans – and some say the United States. To embrace the Creole culture in New Orleans, Treme is a multicultural and residential base. The neighborhood has plenty of jazz clubs and soul food spots. It is a brilliant place to celebrate African American culture and heritage. You should definitely book a food tour as well. It’s an easy cab ride to anywhere.

Warehouse District

The Warehouse District (aka the Arts District) has industrial warehouses and edgy hotels with exposed brick walls. The district’s industrial history is very much part of its identity today. But this has been built on with the addition of trendy restaurants and several art galleries and museums. For the creative, it’s the perfect base in New Orleans. Easy walk to CBD, waterfront and French Quarter.

1. Maison De La Luz – Central Business District

Maison De La Luz is a stunning 5-star hotel in Downtown New Orleans. The stately columned hotel entrance is side by side with some of New Orleans’s tallest glassy skyscrapers yet also right on the historic St Charles street car line. The location is interesting, as it blends the modern version of New Orleans with old elements. Inside, Maison de La Luz is entirely boutique.

Expect bold flooring – whether tiger striped, black and white tiled or thick carpets. There are plenty of distinct design choices, like paneling, painted features, and freestanding bathtubs. Amenity-wise, there’s a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning, plus a room delivery coffee service. The comfortable lounge room is a nice touch, too, with large armchairs that you can just sink right into. Its location and bold sense of style earned Maison De La Luz a spot on our list. Check rates and availablility here.

2. Hotel Peter and Paul – Marigny District

Hotel Peter and Paul is a glam 4-star boutique hotel set in a 19th-century church and its adjoining school. Its unique location and sense of style instantly drew our eye, and you’ll see why. The guest rooms are set in different school rooms, and the hotel even has rectory and convent room options. The church and school were built in 1860, so staying in such a historic building is special. The thoughtful way that Hotel Peter and Paul have kept the link to the building’s history also helps guests to appreciate the property more.

Hotel Peter and Paul is in the trendy Marigny District. It is decked out with Southern antiques and elegant furnishings. Certain rooms offer fireplaces and balconies, too – if you fancy splashing out on some luxe comforts. The onsite cocktail bar is a nice touch, too. Check for rates and availability here.

3. Hotel Mazarin – French Quarter

Hotel Mazarin is an elegant 4-star boutique hotel amid the French Quarter. The hotel embraces its European district with dark wood furnishings and a dainty brick courtyard with a beautiful fountain. There are extra luxuries, like chandeliers and balconies with city views in particular rooms. The balconies are in Parisian style with black wrought iron railings and outdoor metal seating. You can even order croissants and champagne for breakfast.

If you want a central location in the French Quarter in a European-style hotel, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Mazarin. Its sense of style perfectly fits its district in New Orleans. And its location (just a minute away from Bourbon Street) won it its place on our list. The onsite gym is also handy for fitness-conscious guests. Check availablity and rates here.

4. The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton – Arts and Warehouse District

The Higgins Hotel is part of the trusty Hilton chain. The 4-star hotel is a classic ‘big fish’ design, covering a massive building with hundreds of guestrooms. It is one of the largest boutique hotels in New Orleans – perfect if you want the chain hotel experience yet boutique details. The Higgins Hotel has art Deco designs and sleekly furnished rooms with small details like framed artwork or circular mirrors. We like the subtlety of this property’s boutique edge, classy and understated.

Located in the Arts and Warehouse District, the Higgins Hotel is surrounded by galleries, historic sites, and museums. Onsite, there’s also a gym, chic rooftop bar, French restaurant, and a business center. Everything you need to stay inside your hotel for a day. That is a leading benefit of a large chain hotel. Check rates and availability here.

5. Pontchartrain Hotel – Garden District

Pontchartrain Hotel leans into swanky territory rather than understated elegance. That could be inevitable, given it is a 5-minute walk from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Everything is plush, with indulgently elegant furnishings. As an all-suite hotel, Pontchartrain Hotel only offers spacious rooms. In fact, out of all the boutique hotels in New Orleans, it’s one of the most generous with room size. We were impressed by the hotel’s apparent character strength; if you want a suite option, it really is the place to stay.

The hotel (unsurprisingly) has a stunning rooftop bar with expansive views of the Mississippi River and city views of Downtown New Orleans. There’s also Bayou Bar if you want a more intimate drinking spot. Situated in the Lower Garden District, it’s nice to have some onsite bars to enjoy since it is more of a residential neighborhood. Check out rates and availability here.

6. Audubon Cottages – French Quarter

Audubon Cottages is one of the best boutique hotels if you want a pool – which you probably will if you visit in the summer. The pool is really its winning quality. Plus, it is a saltwater pool heated all year round, a dreamy setup for a post-sightseeing dip. Aside from its pool, Audubon Cottages has an onsite gym with a weights section and in-room spa services. It even has a generous drinks package, with complimentary daily replenishment in your room.

When it comes to rooms, (drum roll please) you choose between a king room and a two-bedroom cottage with self-catering facilities. The property is conveniently located in the French Quarter, which is dreamily just a short walk from Bourbon Street. Hence, a self-catered experience is perfect for extra freedom. You can explore at all hours without worrying about restaurant hours and set meal times. Check rates and availability now.

7. Roami at The Lola – Arts – Warehouse District

Roami at The Lola is one of the prettiest boutique hotels in New Orleans. This historic hotel is in the Arts District, which you can tell already from the pictures of its exposed brick walls. The industrial features are a wonderful ode to the building’s history and offer a nitty gritty aesthetic that begs to be snapped for the gram. Apart from its aesthetic, though, what caught our attention was the fact that Roami at The Lola is an apartment hotel. The property offers apartments that range from studios to humongous six-bedroom apartments. It’s perfect for a group holiday.

Facility-wise, the apartments all have access to a communal terrace and a gym. Most apartment choices also offer free wifi and amenities like dishwashers and ovens. Check availability here.

8. Canal Street Inn – Mid City

Canal Street Inn is a bed and breakfast in the body of a boutique hotel. The property has undergone a special metamorphosis to achieve a blend of the two. It is the perfect option for a budget traveler. You have home comforts with boutique surroundings – what’s not to love? We are particularly drawn to the amount of antique furnishings and collectibles displayed throughout the property. Canal Street Inn feels like a little time capsule.

This hotel is actually in a neighborhood we didn’t discuss, Mid-City. Mid-City is the platonic friend you’ve always wanted. It is easygoing and with close ties to lots of exciting things to do. Amenities and facilities include a common room, garden terrace, parlor room, and daily breakfast, including homemade biscuits. Rooms range from standard kings to duplex suites, too, so pay attention to which option you book. Check the availability of all rooms here.

9. Ashton’s Bed and Breakfast – Treme

Ashton’s Bed and Breakfast is a stately, all-white painted detached building in the middle of Treme. As far as experiencing southern charm goes, you’ll love it at Ashton’s. Because of its location and bed and breakfast status, it is one of the friendliest and most immersive New Orleans hotels. It serves a delicious buffet breakfast or a la carte options each morning. And guests also access a beautiful garden with a terrace fit for socializing.

The rooms are boldly painted in bright colors like blues and reds. We adore the traditional touches, and honestly, it is perfect for a laidback and comfortable stay in New Orleans. Some rooms even come with a spa bath. Check availability and rates today.

10. Roami at The Luzianne – Arts and Warehouse District

If you want to stay in the Arts and Warehouse District, Roami at The Luzianne is one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans. As per its neighborhood, the hotel has stayed true to its industrial roots, with exposed brick walls throughout the property. The overall interior design is a hybrid between sleek and modern. It has fresh white paint and shiny black furnishings, yet also sections of traditional red bricks. Honestly, the balance is beautiful. We love it, and we think you will too.

Just steps away from some of the best art galleries in New Orleans, Roami at The Luzianne is ideally located for the creative traveler. It has plenty of spacious apartments to keep you occupied indoors, too (it is an apartment-only hotel), with choices ranging from one-bedroom apartments to huge penthouses. Find out about rates and availability here.

11. International House Hotel

International House Hotel is a dreamy base in the middle of the chic Downtown area. The stylish hotel holds 4 well-deserved hospitality stars and glowing Booking.com reviews. Its interior design is a moody but bright aesthetic. It has plenty of fresh, crisp white features yet backlighting to give it a slightly edgy appeal. This hotel is cool, but it didn’t need you to tell it that. We like the confidence it seems to strut.

You have world-class restaurants on your doorstep, just a short walk away, plus a bar on-site should you want a lazy evening. Downtown New Orleans is a brilliant place, with easy access to most of the city’s attractions. Inside the hotel is a gym should you want to let your hair down with weights or cardio sessions. While if a more sedate health kick is on the cards, the full-service spa is a welcome addition to your itinerary.

The property’s rooms all adhere to the hotel’s black-and-white theme. You’ll notice framed black and white artwork adorning the walls and even spectacular black furnishings like a grand piano in the executive suite. Room options begin at a spacious queen room and end with numerous luxe suite choices. Many rooms include balconies, which we’d recommend splurging on for a view of New Orleans at night. Check rates and availability now.

12. The Frenchmen – French Quarter

The Frenchmen is – shock, you guessed it, in the French Quarter. This French Quarter hotel has an ultra-traditional exterior with blue-painted slatted wooden paneling and red-painted windows and shutters. You won’t find it tricky to spot when you arrive. Its striking exterior is just part of its allure, though. The Frenchmen actually most comes into its own when you discover its facilities. The hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub are major winners in our books. It’s one of the few hotels in the city with a hot tub – a rare attribute we deem worthy enough to recommend that you book ASAP. So keep that fun fact in mind if you are a spa day lover.

The Frenchmen is one of the best hotels if you want a distinctive aesthetic in the French Quarter. In terms of room choices, you can opt for a standard room or splash out on one of the suites. The Frenchmen 2-bedroom suite is the nicest, including a covered balcony, patio seating, and wrought black iron railings. Check out the rates and availability.

13. NOPSI Hotel New Orleans – Central Business District

NOPSI Hotel New Orleans is easily one of the best boutique hotels in Downtown New Orleans. It has a year-round heated pool and sun terrace, which are rare qualities in New Orleans. Plus, it is the only pet-friendly boutique property in this guide – a considerable brownie point. The 5-star property is the sort of hotel that goes the extra mile. You can find car rentals and bike rentals at the 24-hour reception desk. And there’s an onsite fitness center and bar, whichever most take your fancy after a long day of sightseeing.

Rooms start at the standard king and go up to luxury terrace suites. The rooms with terraces come with jaw-dropping skyline views of New Orleans. Thanks to the downtown locale, you get skyscraper views. Even from the pool, you can admire the classic inner-city view of mismatched glassy buildings jutting up around you. NOPSI Hotel New Orleans is our top downtown recommendation. You will find rates and availability here.

14. MOXY New Orleans – French Quarter / CBD

MOXY is fast becoming the most happening chain of boutique hotels. The hotel brand is renowned for its cool and bold sense of style, and its hotels are full of bright art and quirky furnishings. MOXY New Orleans is set between the Central Business District and the French Quarter – call it the best of both worlds. Its location and the MOXY-typical atmosphere of this hotel are its most striking qualities.

Everything is onsite, from a fitness center to a bar and coffee shop. MOXY New Orleans is fantastic for the little details, like a 24-hour grab-and-go shop that sells all those essentials like toothpaste, sanitary towels, and daft things like padlocks. The hotel has a down-to-earth vibe. The unpretentious atmosphere is a beautiful choice when staying in fun-loving New Orleans. Book Now!

15. Hotel Monteleone

Hotel Monteleone is New Orleans’ uber-luxurious boutique hotel. Forget your New Orleans bed and breakfast-type properties; Hotel Monteleone is a 4-star heaven on Earth. Everything is ornately decorated with the utmost extravagance. There’s a bar made of a gold-plated carousel, an onsite spa, and a heated rooftop pool. To indulge in your stay in New Orleans, definitely give Hotel Monteleone a go. It is one of the most extravagant examples of Southern hospitality in our guide.

Hotel Monteleone is situated in the iconic French Quarter. It is within walking distance from all the major attractions and the electric Bourbon Street. You can make the most of tired evenings by dining in the hotel’s restaurant, though, since it has an onsite restaurant serving criollo dishes. And room-wise, you have options that include multiple suite types.

16. One11 Hotel – French Quarter

Ready for another French Quarter gem? One11 Hotel is a flashy 4-star boutique hotel with elegant rooms and what feels like a chandelier in every room. Despite its good looks, the feature that won us over in One11 Hotel is its large outdoor pool. Shielded from the busy French Quarter by high walls and set in a courtyard space, the pool is a welcome respite from the heat and chaos of New Orleans.

Amenities include an ATM (one of the handiest things a hotel can have), 24-hour reception, and a massive terrace with city views. If you fancy dining in, there’s also a restaurant and bar onsite. Certain rooms have disability access and walk-in showers too, which you may wish to note. Find out the best rates now!

17. Hotel Villa Convento – French Quarter

Hotel Villa Convento is one of the best boutique hotels in the historic French Quarter, which is saying something. The French Quarter has beautiful hotels and historical sites, but Hotel Villa Convento stands out for its unapologetically lavish interior. The amount of stonework and traditional dark wood gives the hotel a European vibe. And combined with wrought iron Parisian balconies, you could really close your eyes and imagine you were in Paris if Bourbon Street wasn’t just a short walking distance away. We love the design and strong sense of character.

Rooms range from standard queens to king suites with balconies. From your balcony, you can bag either a street or courtyard view. There’s also a daily maid service for the utmost standard of hospitality. Find out current rates here.

18. Marsh Hotel – Garden District

The Marsh Hotel is a beautiful boutique hotel specializing in being eco-friendly and located smack bang in the middle of the Garden District. The unique building has a vast container-style extension and a rustic interior throughout. The Marsh Hotel is massively photogenic – just the perfect base for an aesthetic boutique hotel in the Garden District. Its style and aesthetic are what impressed us. The sustainability focus is also a huge plus.

The Marsh Hotel is small, with an intimate, personal feel to its hospitality. Expect to be on a first-name basis with the staff. The room choices are divided between deluxe king rooms and double rooms; both are light and airy. Guests can also enjoy the onsite bar, coffee, and garden. Find out the best rates here.

Why Should You Choose a Boutique Hotel in New Orleans?

The caliber of boutique hotels in New Orleans is fabulous. Whether you want private terraces, a saltwater pool, or even southern antiques and a historic building, you’ll find an ideal match. Hopefully, you’ve got at least a few ideas after reading through our top 18 best hotels. New Orleans really suits the boutique hotel scene. Its outgoing – and often quirky – character allows the perfect creation of creative boutique experiences.

Would you like some extra inspiration about visiting New Orleans? We’ve got a guide for the ultimate 3-day itinerary in New Orleans that you can read here. It covers all the essential things you just have to see and do. Enjoy your stay in one of the most exciting cities in the world, and we hope you love the boutique hotel of your choice.

Welcome to Alaska. Alaska is on many a seasoned traveler’s bucket list with it being one of the final frontiers for adventure travel. There are so many things to do in Alaska it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to begin. An Alaskan cruise is a good start but, even with cruising, there are many ports of call and areas to choose from, how do you know what route is the way to go? We are breaking down the best things to do in Alaska by region to help you decide which tourist attractions are right for you and where to go next.

Top Things to Do in Alaska

The largest state in the United States is an adventure lover’s dream with tower mountains, glaciers, and fjords to incredible wildlife encounters and cultural experiences. Some of the best things to do in Alaska include exploring places like Denali National Park or Glacier Bay NP but it also has unique towns to visit and fun adventures to be had. If you trying to decide what to do during your Alaska trip, you have come to the right place. Are you ready to explore with us? Let’s Go.

1. Denali National Park and Preserve

Our first stop in Alaska is Denali National Park and Preserve. This is a popular tourist destination for pre or post-Alaskan Cruiser and you don’t want to miss seeing this massive protected area. Denali, the highest mountain in North America stands proud above more than six million acres of this national park known for its abundant wildlife and unspoiled land.

2. Hop on School Bus Tours

One of the first things most people do in Denali National Park and Preserve is to hop on a bus to journey deep into the park. This tour offers the chance to spy on plenty of wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep in their natural habitat. During our two different tours of the park, we managed to see moose, grizzly bears, and sheep. Not bad at all.

Visitors can also explore the park on foot by hiking on its many trails with some multi-day hikes and camping. The park also has a variety of ranger-led programs and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Denali is home to several campgrounds, lodges, and other accommodations for visitors who wish to stay overnight.

While visiting Denali National Park, we stayed at Mckinley Park Lodge, just two miles from the park entrance.

3. Fly Over Mount Denali

One of the main highlights of Denali National Park is the Denali itself. Also known as Mount McKinley, Denali stands at an impressive height of 20,310 feet (6,190 meters). Denali is the highest peak in North America and to see it by air is a must.

We were fortunate enough to take a scenic flight over the mountain which not only offered the most incredible views but was a great adventure.

We stepped into a 1966 De Havilland Beaver bush plane and felt like pioneers exploring the Great North! This was probably one of our favorite things to do in Alaska because, in Denali, you truly feel like you have reached the final frontier.

It offers stunning views of the glaciers of Mount McKinley and gives you the most up close and personal perspective of the mountain next to actually climbing it.

A lot of people refer to Denali as Mount McKinley. It was named Mount McKinley after the 25th President of the United States in 1869 by a gold prospector. But in 2015 it officially changed back to its original indigenous name as that is what most Alaskans had been calling it and to show respect for the indigenous people that have inhabited this land for centuries.

4. Go ATVing

If you are into more motorized sightseeing, there are ATV tours on offer in the Denali area too! We went through the TriValleys on ATV and had a rip-roaring time.

5. Take a Trail ride

Put yourself in the mind of early settlers and imagine what it must have been like for them riding through the Alaskan Bush by horseback. It takes you through remarkable scenery and you truly feel as if you’ve gotten away from it all!

6. Visit The Huskey homestead

If you want to see dog mushing and don’t have a chance to go dogsledding elsewhere in Alaska, pop into the Husky Homestead to meet Iditarod sled dogs. Opened by 4 times Iditarod champion, Jeff King, this homestead is a year-round training facility for sled dogs. And you may just get the chance to meet the “winningest dog musher in history”, Jeff King himself.

7. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

The next on our list of top things to do in Alaska is to visit Glacier Bay, National Park. Covering more than 3 million acres, the park is home to a wide range of glaciers, fjords, mountains, and forests. The park is accessible only by boat or plane, which adds to its sense of isolation and pristine natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the park’s wilderness by hiking along its many trails, camping in its backcountry, or taking a guided tour with a ranger to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history. But most people visit Glacier Bay on their cruise, and it is definitely an amazing way to see it. We sat back on our balcony watching glaciers calve into the sea plunging into the deep blue waters.

8. cruise to Hubbard Glacier

The main glacier that large cruise ships see is the Hubbard Glacier. It is one of the most impressive and popular glaciers to see in Alaska. Located in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is the largest tidewater glacier in North America, stretching over 76 miles (122 kilometers) from its source in the Yukon Territory to the Gulf of Alaska.

It towers over 300 feet (91 meters) above the water with a width of over six miles (9.7 kilometers). Ships circle the bay to give passengers unparalleled views of this beauty known for its distinctive deep blue color comes from the compacted snow and ice, which absorbs all colors of the spectrum except blue.

9. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Alaska is filled with many of the largest things…It’s the largest state housing the highest mountain in North America and now we come to the largest national park in the United States. At 13.2 million acres is larger than the entire country of Switzerland. The three largest national parks in the USA are all actually located in Alaska, The second largest national park being the Gates of the Arctic National Park, and the third largest national park is Denali National Park.

If you love the great outdoors, Alaska has all the national parks you could want! Now that’s impressive.

10. Take a Zodiac Tour at Dawes Glacier

When taking a small ship tour, we had the chance to take zodiac tours and go kayaking around Glacier Bay National Park and it was spectacular.

Our zodiac tour took us close to Dawes Glacier where we visited waterfalls, tasted fresh glacier ice, road the waves from a calving glacier, and had the chance to sneak closer to the glaciers for a more intimate look at the ice.

There are other tours to the Hubbard Glacier where you can hike to its nearby ridges to see panoramic views of the glacier.

11. Witness Johns Hopkins Glacier

Another glacier we spent a lot of time at in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve was Johns Hopkins Glacier. It is named after Johns Hopkins University, which sponsored an expedition to explore the area in the late 1800s.

The glacier is a tidewater glacier, meaning that it terminates in the ocean. It measures approximately 12 miles (19 kilometers) long and is located at the head of Johns Hopkins Inlet, which is a remote and pristine area of the park.

One of the unique features of Johns Hopkins Glacier is its striking blue color. Like other glaciers, it gets this color from the way the ice reflects light, absorbing all colors of the spectrum except blue, which is reflected back to the viewer. The glacier is also known for its active calving, which creates a dramatic sight as chunks of ice break off and fall into the ocean.

12. Go Kayaking

Kayaking in Glacier Bay is a bucket list adventure indeed. We have been kayaking a couple of times in Alaska and it is a far more intimate way to take in the Alaskan beauty. By silently paddling through the icy waters, we kept our eyes out for sea lions, whales, and otters while enjoying our natural surroundings.

13. Ride the Alaska Railroad

One of the best ways to explore the wilderness is to get on the Alaska Railroad aboard a dome train. We caught the Alaska Railroad in Denali National Park and Preserve and took it to Anchorage on one trip and to Talkeetna on another.

The Alaska Railroad itself spans 470 miles (750 kilometers) from the coastal city of Seward in the south to the interior city of Fairbanks in the north. When the weather is good, the train passes through some awe-inspiring scenery from pristine forests to rugged mountains.

It’s a fun trip with dining cars, cocktails, and comfortable seating creating a unique and memorable way to travel through Alaska. There is something very decadent about eating breakfast in the dining car with a fresh Bloody Mary (c’mon, you’re on vacation, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere!) while watching the wild Alaskan scenery as you pass by. You may spot a grizzly or two as well! You can add this excursion onto land tour portions of Alaskan cruises or book it independently.

14. Stroll Along Creek Street in Ketchikan

We have been to Ketchikan three times and this is one of our favorite cities in Alaska. It’s a lively frontier city dating back to the Gold Rush. One of the highlights of Ketchikan is the elevated historic boardwalk that runs along Ketchikan Creek. The street was built in the early 1900s, and at one time, it was the center of Ketchikan’s red-light district.

One of the most famous buildings on Creek Street is the Dolly’s House Museum, which was once a brothel and is now a museum. The museum offers a glimpse into the life of Dolly Arthur, a prominent madam who operated the brothel, and has displays dedicated to Alaska’s history.

Stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy the waterfront, watch salmon spawn in the creek, and keep an eye out for bald eagles and sea lions as you wine, dine, and shop in one of the historic wood-framed houses of Creek Street.

15. Watch Bears Eat Salmon in Ketchikan

Hands down one of the best things to do in Alaska is to watch bears feed on salmon. Ketchikan dubs itself the salmon capital of the world and where there is salmon there are bears. The city is situated in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, which is home to several species of salmon and a thriving population of black bears.

There are several bear viewing areas, such as Anan Creek or Traitor’s Cove and we made our way out to Neets Bay by float plane to see black bears feeding on salmon in their natural habitat.

Neets Bay is a salmon hatchery and a natural place where salmon make their way upstream to spawn. After laying their eggs, the salmon are ripe for the pickings for black bears wanting to fatten up for their winter sleep and if you’ve ever wanted to see black bears fishing, this is the place to do it.

Here you’ll stay at the Westmark Sitka Hotel which is within walking distance of the harbor and downtown.

16. Spot Brown Bears

If you want to see brown bears feeding on salmon, make your way to Katmai National Park and Preserve. It has the highest concentration of bears in the world.

If you were ever wondering what the difference between brown and grizzly bears is, they are actually the same species. It is the location and diet that sets them apart. Brown bears are found in the coastal regions and typically eat fish and berries (Salmon being a favorite) while Grizzly bears are found inland and typically eat plants, roots, and grasses as well as berries.

17. Drive Your Own Zodiac

If you are looking for some of the more adventurous things to do in Alaska a seld drive zodiac tour in Ketchikan was the most fun we had. Leaving downtown, we made our way out to explore the shores of the Tongass National Forest while whipping around the harbor in our self-drive zodiacs.

We geared up in complete raingear, learned how to drive the powerful zodiacs, and were let loose to twist and turn our way through the waters.

Following our guide, we crossed the bay watching whales breach and bald eagles dive for prey. We then set up camp in the forest to enjoy a tasty treat of ‘Smores (marshmallows and chocolate melted on graham crackers) by the fire.

18. Totem State Historical Park

Ketchikan has many monikers such as Alaska’s First City, the Salmon Capital of the world and it also has the largest concentration of standing totem poles in the world. You can see a collection of totem poles at Totem Bight State Historical Park just outside of the city or at the Totem Heritage Center. The Totem Heritage Center showcases the living heritage of the  Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Peoples.

When we saw Totem Bight State Historical Park, it was covered in bald eagles resting on the tops of the original Tglinglet Peoples totems making for one of the most beautiful scenes of nature. These totem poles of Ketchikan signal the preservation of artistic traditions.

Tlingit Culture

We also learned about the Tlingit People and visited a longhouse at Bartlet Cove. If you don’t get the chance to stop at Bartlet Cove to see the longhouse, and totems and listen to storytellers talk about their culture, Totlem State Historical Park is a good spot to visit in Ketchikan. If you visit Anchorage, you can visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn more about the indigenous people of Alaska. Regardless of where you are, make sure to learn about Native Alaskan culture.

19. Klondike History in Skagway Historic District

Skagway Alaska is another top stop on an Alaskan itinerary with plenty of things to see and do. In Skagway, you’ll find plenty of the best things to do in Alaska with its gold rush heritage and its location along a historic route.

20. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is an area dedicated to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 when thousands of people traveled to the Klondike region of the Yukon in Canada in search of gold. Much of Alaska’s history was built on the gold rush, so taking a stroll through the Skagway Historic District takes you back in time with its historic buildings that were the starting point for gold rush seekers setting out to tackle the Chilkoot Trail.

If you don’t want to hike, check out the Gold Rush Museum where you’ll see exhibits from the days of the gold rush and artifacts from the trail. In Skagway, there is a visitor center, rail terminal, and plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants.

21. Hike the Chilkoot Trail

Chilkoot Trail, which was one of the main routes taken by gold seekers on their way to the Klondike. People had to carry everything (including the kitchen sink) on their backs and many a fortune hunter perished on this challenging 33-mile-long trail.

Today, hikers and backpackers can retrace the route of the Klondike Gold Rush and hike the Chilkoot Trail themselves. You can pick up permits in the town of Skagway. Along the way, you’ll see artifacts left behind by early settlers. They tried to bring everything with them, and for many, it was just too much to handle, so they left their belongings which can still be seen today on the trail!

The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is an important part of Alaska’s history and a popular destination for visitors to the state. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do the whole multi-day trek, you can do a day hike to get a feel for it.

22. Ride The White Pass Rail

If you are not up for a multi-day hike but want to trace the route of the gold rush, a great day trip is the White Pass Rail. We have taken this train twice and it is worth the trip as it is one of the most popular railway journeys in the world. The White Pass Rail has been designated as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers

This historic narrow-gauge railroad runs from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, in Canada. The railway was built during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898 and was a crucial transportation route for miners traveling to the gold fields. Today, visitors can get a taste of what life was like by taking a journey that includes tight curves and steep grades through the mountains to the summit of White Pass.

Highlights include:

• Gold Rush Cemetery – Famous icons from the gold rush days are buried here including Soapy Smith and Frank Reid who died in a shootout in Skagway.
• Black Cross Rock – A 100-ton rock that buried two railroad workers.  
• Bridal Veil Falls

23. Hike the Tongass National Forest

Tongass National Forest is the largest forest in the United States. A hike through here, lets you see what it was like for people passing along the Chilkoot Trail toward Alaska with all their belongings to strike it big in the Gold Rush.

We followed the Skagway River learning about the flora and fauna of the area and we even saw where a bear scratched into a tree! Our three-hour hike took us through the wilderness to our final destination, a view of the Alaskan Sawtooth Mountain range and a glimpse of Laughton Glacier.

24. Get up in the Air

Our heli, hike, and rail tour took us over breathtaking glaciers followed by a hike to see the flora and fauna of the national forest before meeting up with the train while hitching a ride back to Skagway. It was the ultimate three tours in one.

There is nothing better than seeing Alaska from above and one of the best things to do in Alaska is to get up in the air for a bird’s eye view of glaciers. We also did the White Pass Rail during another visit to Alaska when we took a helicopter tour to meet the train after hiking through the Tongass National Forest.

Another place to take a helicopter tour is over the Juneau Icefields. It offered up one of the most striking views we’ve ever seen. The 30-minute flight took us over the massive ice fields that have been here for millenniums. Seeing the deep gorges from above, truly showed us the power of mother nature.

25. Relax in Juneau

Juneau is a popular tourist destination and one of our favorite cities in Alaska. The capital of Alaska is modern with art galleries and plenty of dining options, but it also takes you back to the Gold Rush days of th 180ss with the swinging red doors of the Red Dog Saloon and colorful facades of shops lining the streets.

Some popular things to do downtown Juneau include the Alaska State Museum, and going up the Mount Roberts Tramway, Besides enjoying time in town, there are many outdoor adventures in Juneau making it one of the must-stop destinations on any Alaskan bucket list.

26. Go Whale Watching

Juneau is one of the premier places in Alaska to go whale watching. We’ve taken two whale-watching trips in Juneau and saw whales each time. Located near the Inside Passage, Juneau makes for a great base to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and porpoises.

Juneau also offers the unique opportunity to see humpback whales’ bubble-net feeding. This is a hunting technique where a group of whales swims in a circle while blowing bubbles, which creates a wall of bubbles that trap the fish. The whales then swim up through the middle of the bubble net, opening their mouths to scoop up the fish.

Whale-watching tours in Juneau typically operate from May through September, with the peak season being from June to August. During this time, humpback whales migrate to the area to feed on the abundant plankton and fish that are found in the waters around Juneau.

27. Hike to the Mendenhall Glacier Juneau

One of the top things to do in all of Alaska is located just outside of Juneau. The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers located just 12 miles from downtown Juneau. There are several ways to experience this 13m mile arm of the Juneau Icefields which covers an area of over 1,500 square miles. It is one of the largest ice fields in the world and the Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most visited glaciers in the world.

From The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, you can choose from several hiking trails for views of the glacier. You can take a canoe trip to get up close to the glacier and the roaring nugget falls or you can book a tour to enjoy one of the most unique tourist attractions, the Mendenhall Glacier is the ice caves.

We took a guided hike tour along the trail of history to witness just how far the glacier has retreated over the years and on the trail we saw salmon spawning and a black bear.

28. Walk On Eagle Beach

Bald Eagles may be difficult to spot in other parts of the world, but in Juneau, they hang out on the beach, sit on totem poles and soar through the air. It is fair to say that when visiting Juneau (at least in the summer months) you’ll see plenty of bald eagles.

The best place to see bald eagles is Eagle Beach. There are so many bald eagles that frequent the beach, they named it after them. It’s located just north of Juneau and is a vast beach with driftwood scattered through the sand.

You’ll see a lot of eagles in Alaska. We saw these two on a beach walk and I happened to yell at Dave to point his camera up to the tree just in time to capture this action shot.

29. Visit Fairbanks

Fairbanks is another Alaskan destination that is filled with adventures. Many Alaskan land adventures begin in Fairbanks, and we flew into Fairbanks from the Yukon while taking an overland tour through Alaska (twice!).

It is a picturesque town on the river with great dining options. As the starting point of the Yukon Quest, it also has a great free dog mushing museum. Bouchard’s International Dog Mushing and Sled Museum shows the history and culture of dog sled racing in Alaska.

30. See the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun

If you want to see the Northern lights, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to witness the Aurora Borealis. From late August to mid-April, visitors can witness the beautiful light show in the night sky. The nights are long and dark over the winter months letting visitors see the Northern Lights even at midday.

However, most people visit Fairbanks in the summer, and during the summer months, you can enjoy the opposite of the northern lights, the midnight sun. It is the city that never sleeps in the summertime as you can be outside at midnight with the sun seeming like it is high noon.

31. Go Back in Time at the Alaska Museum of the North

There are plenty of things to keep you occupied in Fairbanks and one of the first places to stop is The University of Alaska Museum of the North, the state’s only research and teaching museum.

The museum’s collections include more than 1.4 million artifacts and specimens, ranging from fossils and minerals to historical objects and contemporary art. One of the museum’s most famous exhibits is the Blue Babe, a 36,000-year-old steppe bison that was found in Fairbanks in 1979. The bison’s remains are one of the most well-preserved specimens of its kind in the world.

Other notable exhibits at the museum include a collection of Native Alaskan art, including masks, carvings, and textiles, and a display on the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which is a famous annual event in Alaska.

Other Popular things to do in Fairbanks include taking a riverboat cruise along the Tanana and Chena Rivers and The Chena Hot Springs.

32. Stay at the Chena Hot Springs

The Chena Hot Springs is located an hour from Fairbanks and are a great place to spend a night or two. The resort also features a hotel, cabins, and camping sites, making it a great destination for overnight stays.

One of the main tourist attractions at Chena Hot Springs is the Aurora Ice Museum, which is made entirely of ice and snow. The museum features beautiful ice sculptures and a bar where visitors can enjoy drinks served in glasses made of ice.

If you stay in the winter months, it offers aurora viewing tours, dog sledding tours, ice sculpting, and of course bathing in its mineral-rich hot springs.

The Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a range of activities, including hot spring bathing, dog sledding tours, ice sculpting, and aurora viewing tours.

33. Visit Santa Clause at the North Pole

If you like all things Christmas, you’ll love ta stop at Santa Claus House at the North Pole, Alaska. Having a central location along the Richardson Highway, it’s a popular stop for tour busses to get out and stretch their legs, pick up some Christmas ornaments, and grab a photo of the world’s largest fiberglass Santa Claus statue, which stands at 42 feet tall. Or you can just do what Dave and I did, grab a cappuccino while everyone else shopped and visited Santas reindeer.

34. Pan for Gold at Gold Dredge 8

I don’t care how kitschy it sounds, when in Alaska one of the must things to do is to try your hand at panning for gold! We didn’t really want to do this tour, but it when we made our way out to Dredge 8 near Fairbanks, we thoroughly enjoyed our journey through Alaska’s history. After stopping to learn about Alaska’s oil history at the trans-Alaska Pipeline, we boarded a train and enjoyed a relaxing ride through the different stations where people reenacted how early prospectors mined for gold.

Alaska was built on the gold industry, and it’s cool to see an old Gold Mine and the equipment they used to strike it rich. Plus, at the end, everyone has a chance to try their hand at panning for gold, and each person is guaranteed to find a nugget or two that you can take home with you as a souvenir!

35. Take a Riverboat Cruise

The Riverboat Cruise on the Chena River is a staple of things to do in Alaska. Founded by Jim Binkley in 1950, it has become an institution showing visitors the way of life along the river.

From watching demonstrations by the Athabascan people showing us how they dry and hang salmon to viewing sled dog demonstrations. It may be summer, but sled dogs still love to run, so they hook them up to wheels and treat them to their daily workout!

36. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

If you are looking for one of the more offbeat things to do in Alaska, visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum before leaving Fairbanks. The museum features 85 vintage automobiles from the 1900s to the 1930s. Autoweek Magazine named it one of the top 10 automobile museums in the world and you’ll be able to see rare old makes of Rolls Royce, a Duesenberg, and Cadillacs.

37. Arrive in Anchorage

We have always wanted to visit Anchorage, but for some reason it had eluded us on our other visits to Alaska, that is until our most recent trip. The largest city in Alaska has a lot going on. The transportation hub of Alaska, Anchorage is often the starting or ending point of Alakan tours and cruises.

Located in the heart of the Chugach Mountains on a branch of the Cook Inlet, there is an abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventures. From hiking in Chugach State Park to dining at one of its outstanding restaurants, visiting the Anchorage Museum, or enjoying the world’s largest chocolate waterfall there are plenty of things to do in Anchorage. Let’s take a look at a few highlights.

38. Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is a must-stop on an Alaskan visit. Established in 1989, it celebrates the culture of the indigenous Alaskan Peoples. Anchorage is a popular departure point for Alaskan cruises and this is a great place to learn about the culture of the people you will be meeting along the way.

It has both indoor and outdoor exhibits featuring artwork and artifacts. One of the more impressive displays at the Alaska Native Heritage Center includes life-sized traditional dwellings with a traditional dance circle and a theatre. Visitors can take place in cultural programs, storytelling sessions, guided tours, and sample traditional food.

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is committed to preserving and promoting the traditional cultures and ways of life of Alaska’s Native peoples, while also celebrating their contributions to the modern world. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Alaska.

39. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park was a national monument and then became a National park designed to protect the misty fjords, rainforest, and wildlife that make up the area. Today, the Kenai Peninsula is a beloved part of the local Anchorage community as it’s just a two-hour drive outside of the city. 

Make sure to visit the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Centre in Seward before you head out to learn about trail conditions and the Kenai Peninsula before you head into the park. And don’t miss seeing Exit Glacier located just 10 minutes from Seward, it is one of Alaska’s most accessible roadside glaciers.

The best way to see Kanai Fjords National Park is to get out on a cruise where you can hop on kayaks to explore the Kenai Fjords. We did exactly that on our Uncruise through Alaska in 2019.

40. Drive the Seward Scenic Highway

Dave and I took the train from Anchorage to Seward, but my parents drove the Seward Scenic Highway. This picturesque stretch of highway runs from Anchorage to Seward with plenty of things to see along the way. We even saw it from the train as we looked out at the stunning views of the Chugach Mountains.

When driving you can stop at Chugach State Park to enjoy parts of its 500,000 acres of wilderness area. Portage Glacier is another popular stop as it is just a short drive from the Seward Scenic Highway but the star glacier is Exit Glacier which is located in Kenai Fjords National Park and can be accessed via a short hike.

If you want to see beluga whales, stop at the Turnagain Arm. Turnagain Arm is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean which is filled with wildlife and you can actually see belugas from the shoreline.

41. The Iditarod National Historic Trail

Speaking of Seward, The Iditarod National Historic Trail is a trail system in Alaska that spans over 2,000 miles from Seward, Alaska to Nome, Alaska. The trail is named after the Iditarod River and was once used as a transportation route by Native Alaskans and later by gold miners during the Alaska Gold Rush.

The trail gained worldwide recognition in 1925 when a diphtheria outbreak threatened the town of Nome, and a team of sled dogs and mushers raced over 600 miles to deliver the life-saving serum to the town. That event is commemorated each year with the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race but tourists and locals alike can use the trail for hiking and cross-country skiers.

The Iditarod National Historic Trail is maintained by the National Park Service, which works to preserve the history and cultural significance of the trail, while also promoting outdoor recreation and education.

42. Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

If you really want to get off the beaten path in Alaska, one of the best things to do is to make your way to the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. It is one of the few national parks in the United States that is completely undeveloped, with no roads or trails.

Gates of the Arctic is located entirely north of the Arctic Circle and is an incredible place to spy caribou, grizzly bears, and even muskoxen. You can book guided adventures from river rafting and dogsledding to mountaineering and hiking.

43. Drive the Alaska Highway

We love road trips and Diving the Alaska Highway is one of the great road trips in the world. Also known as the Alcan Highway, the Alaska Highway is a 1,390-mile (2,237 km) long highway from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction in Alaska. You’ll have the chance to drive through mountain passes and over the tundra in search of brown bears, moose, caribou, and bison from the road. The Alaska highway takes you through one of the most remote parts of North America.

If you are looking for a drive that crossed the Arctic Circle when visiting Alaksa as we did in Yukon’s Dempster Highway, you’ll need to make your way to the Dalton Highway.

44. Take a Holland America Cruise

One of the best ways to see Alaska is by cruise ship as many of its cities and national parks can only be reached by plane or boat. We took an Alaskan cruise tour last summer where we spent two weeks visiting Alaska, British Columbia, and the Yukon. This tour was one week on land flying from Vancouver to Dawson City and finally on to Fairbanks, where we hit the ground to see more of Alaska.

It was then onto the ship as we took the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to Seward to enjoy a cruise down the inside passage to British Columbia. We loved this cruise which showcase the best of Alaska while enjoying it in luxury and comfort.

45. Book a Small Ship Cruise

We have also taken a small ship cruise in Alaska and it offers a more intimate experience. You won’t be able to do all the wow tourist attractions or tours from a small ship cruise, but you do get to places that most don’t see. Our Uncruise was an all-inclusive tour that included kayaking and zodiac tours of Glacier Bay National Park. We had free hiking tours and even the Polar Bear Plunge. Food and drinks were included and we had the chance to really see an unspoiled Alaska that few get to experience.

Depending on what type of experience in Alaska you are looking for, we loved both our big ship cruises in Alaska and our small ship cruise. Each was amazing yet different.

Alaska is fast becoming a popular tourist destination that is on everyone’s bucket list. An Alaska trip will truly leave you speechless and create memories to last a lifetime. From the great outdoors to quirky Alaska attractions like the world’s largest chocolate fountain in Anchorage, there is something for everyone in Alaska.

And that ladies and gentlemen is our list of all the things to do in Alaska that we loved!

I know Alaska is a huge state and there are many adventures to be had, but hopefully, this will inspire you to go back again and again. I know we are ready for our next trip!

Did you enjoy all the things to do in Alaska we suggested?

See more Unique Cruises:

Carmel by the Sea is a playground for the rich and famous. This coastal town has been attracting celebrities and artists for decades making its one of the most exclusive communities in the United States. In fact, Clint Eastwood was the mayor of this beautiful seaside town. It’s no wonder, Carmel California is a dream with charming cottages, stunning beaches, and a vibrant arts scene. This coastal gem has captivated the hearts of travelers for decades, and we have enjoyed this little slice of California heaven as well. While we may not be able to afford one of its mansions, we can visit and these are the best things to do in Carmel by the Sea to include on your Big Sur road trip.

Best Things to Do in Carmel by the Sea

This charming village is only one square mile but it packs a huge punch. With fairy tale cottages, art galleries, and gorgeous ocean views, Carmel, California truly does feel like a storybook. When taking a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, Carmel California should be at the top of your list.

There are so many things to do in Carmel by the Sea from exploring the town center to taking day trips to explore the Pacific Ocean coast there’s something here for everyone. So let’s take a journey to this picturesque paradise and explore all of the best things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

1. Learn to Surf at Carmel Beach

When in California, how can you not give it a go? One of the best things we did in Carmel by the Sea was to take a surfing lesson at beautiful Carmel Beach. Carmel Surf Lessons offers courses, rentals, or just a fun day with an instructor to help you get on the board.

Become a true Californian and learn to surf on the sandy beach with easy waves. Your instructor will give you hands-on help to ride the waves and stand up on the board. We’ve tried surfing a few times around the world, and this was a great place for beginners.

2. Stroll Along Carmel Beach

If surfing isn’t your thing, no worries, Carmel Beach is located just steps from downtown Carmel and is a great place to hang out and enjoy the sun and sand. For a downtown beach, this is a large horseshoe beach with rocky outcrops and beautiful views of Pebble Beach and Point Lobos.

Carmel Beach is where we took our surfing lesson, but there were plenty of people simply taking a stroll with their dogs along this 1-mile dog-friendly crescent-shaped beach.

3. Carmel River State Beach

Another beach located just south of Carmel by the Sea is Carmel River State Beach. It is known for its long, sandy expanse and picturesque views of the Carmel River Lagoon. If you are a bird watcher, this is a good beach to head to.

Located at the Carmel River Lagoon and Wetlands Natural Preserve hikers may spy Great Blue Herons and brown pelicans among other gulls and terns flying over the lagoon. If you walk upstream you will come across the Carmel River Bird Sanctuary and may hear or see other birds like the Downy Woodpecker.

Swimming is not recommended at Carmel River State Beach due to strong currents, but visitors can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the beach and the surrounding landscapes.

4. Mission Ranch

One of the coolest places we visited in Carmel by the Sea was the Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant. Thanks to the efforts of Clint Eastwood, this historic property was preserved. This old dairy farm dates back to the 1850s. It might be out of reach to stay at, but you can dine at the Mission Ranch restaurant for dinner or head to it for Sunday brunch. And a hot tip is that the terrace of the Mission Ranch restaurant is another great spot to watch the sunset.

5. Carmel Mission Basilica Museum

When you are out at Mission Ranch, stop by the Carmel Mission. This historic Spanish Mission is one of the more popular attractions in Carmel by the Sea. A national historic landmark, the Carmel Mission played an important role in the early history of California and is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture, featuring a bell tower, arched windows and doorways, and a beautiful courtyard with a fountain.

Visitors can also explore the mission’s beautiful gardens, which include a rose garden, a vegetable garden, and a cemetery where many of the mission’s early leaders are buried.

The Basilica of San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission (Carmel Mission) was founded in 1770 and is considered the most authentically restored Franciscan mission. You can visit the Carmel Mission Museum to learn all about one of the most important historic sites in California.

6. 17 Mile Drive through Pebble Beach

One of the top things to do in Carmel by the Sea and Monterey is to drive the famous 17 Mile Drive. This stretch of road spans a gorgeous coast from Pacific Grove to Carmel and goes through the exclusive community of Pebble Beach Resort and Pacific Grove.

There are plenty of sights to see including world-class golf courses, plenty of beaches, and scenic views. Our favorite stop was definitely the Ghost Tree and don’t forget the famous Lone Cypress. Spend the entire day enjoying the views as you watch wildlife in their natural habitat at the likes of Bird Rock, Seal Rock and China Rock. Yep, there are a lot of rocks. Read more: 17 Mile Drive – Complete Scenic Drive Itinerary

There are restaurants and hotels along the way including Pebble Beach Resort. We took an e-biking tour which was an excellent way to explore it. Book your tour with Big Sur Adventures

7. Pebble Beach

The Pebble Beach community is worth visiting just to see the mansions alone. The founder of Pebble Beach Samuel F.B. Morse made sure to preserve the area and its Monterey cypress Trees creating this exclusive community. The drive goes through 5300 acres including the Del Monte Forest.Many people pay $11.25 to enter the gates car, but if you ride a bicycle or walk along the 17-mile stretch, it’s free!

8. Pebble Beach Golf Courses

Carmel by the Sea attracts many avid golfers and no trip to Carmel would be complete without at least seeing one of its world-class golf courses. The Pebble Beach Golf Links is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the world. It is often rated as one of the best golf courses in the United States.

Pebble Beach Golf Links is a public course that has hosted numerous professional golf tournaments, including the U.S. Open, and has been played by some of the greatest golfers in history. The course features stunning ocean views, rolling hills, and challenging holes that require precision and skill.

Another popular Pebble Beach golf course is The Links at Spanish Bay. It was the first Scottish Style golf course in America and was designed by five-time British Open champion Tom Watson. He noted that “Spanish Bay looked so much like Scotland, you could almost hear the bagpipe piping.” Ever since it has had pipers play at sunset while the last golfers finish up on the course.

Del Monte Golf Course, the oldest golf course in continuous operation in the western United States, is a classic course with a more traditional design.

Ocean Avenue is the main street of downtown Carmel by the Sea and is a great place to do some shopping or sip a coffee as you people-watch. The street leads from downtown to the beach and there are plenty of things to see along the way. You’ll pass historic hotels and cottages and hideaways.

Grab a coffee at the Carmel Valley Roasting company and enjoy the sunshine as you explore photo and art galleries featuring local art and artist, charming courtyards, and hidden paths. Be sure to stop in at Carmel Plaza located at Ocean Avenue and Mission Street where you’ll find boutique designers, tasting rooms and gourmet shops.

The Carmel Visitor Center is located on Ocean Avenue, so pop in to see what is on or pick up a map of the area. Or you can pick up this Audio Guide of Carmel to tour the Hugh Comstock Fairy Tale cottages of Carmel by the Sea. This self guided tour easy-to-follow map offers highlights and the history of the cottages.

10. Carmel Art Galleries

Carmel by the Sea has always been a haven for artists. Writer Jack London was one of the founders of the artist’s colony here in 1906 and Ansel Adams live in Carmel in 1961. There are more than 100 art galleries around Carmel you can spend a day perusing as you explore the town.

With rich patrons residing in Carmel, you will be sure to find some one-of-a-kind art. Gallery by the Sea showcases local artists depicting scenes from Carmel, Pebble Beach, and Big Sur. Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery has sculptures and prints and Dennis Rae Fine Art Gallery has authorized reproductions of Dr. Seuss.

If you happen to be in Carmel in May, The Carmel Art Festival is a juried art festival that features works by more 120 artists working in a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, and photography.

11. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Heading a little farther south is a popular stop outside of Carmel at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. This beautiful state park is one of the top attractions near Carmel by the Sea known for its natural beauty.

There are several hiking trails to take in the gorgeous cliff views. Don’t miss hiking on Bird Island Trail to take in views of the picturesque China Cove. This is the most popular trail that will take you out to Pelican Point, China Cove, and Gibson Beach.

Point Lobos State Reserve (Punta de los Lobos Marinos) was named for all the sea lions that hang out on the rocks by Spanish explorers. Translated to Point of the Sea Wolves, you’ll have a good chance of spying on some harbor seals.

Hiking at Point Lobos

The park is known for its scenic hiking trails. Here are some of the best hikes at Point Lobos State Park. Cypress Grove Trail is an easy 0.8-mile trail that takes you through a grove of cypress trees and along the rocky coastline, with views of Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

The Bird Island Trail is a moderate 0.7-mile trail that takes you to a small rocky outrcope that’s home to a variety of seabirds, including pelicans, cormorants, and gulls. The Whalers Cove Trail is another easy 0.5-mile trail takes you to Whalers Cove, a sheltered cove that was once used by whalers. Today, it’s a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.

If you are looking for a little more out of your hike, the South Shore Trail is a moderate 1.8-mile trail that takes you along the south shore of the park, with views of China Cove and Gibson Beach.

12. Day Trip to Big Sur

If you are looking for an epic day trip and scenic drive, take a cruise out to Big Sur along California Highway 1 hugging the Pacific coast. It is just a 38-mile stretch of road but it is one of the best ocean-view drives in the world. You’ll cross famous landmarks and photo ops like the Bixby Creek Bridge, the sea stacks of Garrapta State Park, and Point Lobos.

Make sure to rent a car (if you aren’t self-driving) to enjoy the beautiful ocean views. There are plenty of pull-offs so take your time and give yourself a day. Or you can stay over in Big Sur, here is a guide to The Best Campgrounds in Big Sur

13. Garrapata State Park

Located just 15 minutes from Carmel, Garrapata State Park is a beautiful stop offering and incredible scene of rock formations off the coast of the Pacific Ocean. One of the main attractions is its beautiful coastline, which features rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and secluded coves.

Visitors can hike along the Bluff Trail, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Big Sur coastline, or explore one of the park’s many beaches, such as Garrapata Beach or Soberanes Beach.

There are numerous trails to explore the park’s scenic canyons and forests. One popular trail is the Soberanes Canyon Trail, which takes hikers through a beautiful redwood forest and along a creek, with views of waterfalls and lush vegetation.

14. Monterey

Monterey is a destination unto itself and we’ve written about all the things you can do in Monterey here. But to give you a quick overview, Monterey is just a few minutes’ drive from Carmel and if you want to just pop over for day trips it’s easy to do.

You will definitely want to spend some time exploring the seaside of Carmel. Stop in at the Monterey Aquarium to view marine life that resides in the kelp forest, explore the restaurants, art galleries, and shops along Cannery Row, and explore 17 Mile Drive from Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach. We actually rode e-bikes all the way from Pacific Grove to Carmel by the Sea. Check it out here.

15. Kayak the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Most people will say to visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium in nearby Monterey and this is one of the best aquariums in the world for conservation, but we say head out onto the bay to see the marine life for itself.

Seeing the coast from the water is one of the more unique experiences. But getting up close and personal with marine life such as the endangered sea otters, sea lions, and bird life of is what makes it so special.

The cute sea otters were once almost extinct, but thanks to the Monterey Bay Aquarium efforts, they helped to make sure these little guys thrives. Now they there are groups of them floating atop kelp forests relaxing in the bay.

16. Whaler’s Cabin Museum

Point Lobos has a long history and was at one time it was a whaling station and there was a coal mine in the area. Luckily, it was set aside as a protected area for the Monterey cypresses, but there is a museum in an old Whalers Cabin that is now a cultural history museum to learn all about the area’s history.

Located on the site of a former whaling station that operated from 1911 to 1926, the museum offers a glimpse into the area’s whaling past and its impact on local communities.

The museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the whaling industry, including harpoons, scrimshaw, and a restored blubber pot. Visitors can also learn about the history of the whaling station and the process of rendering whale oil.

17. Sunset at Carmel Waterfront Scenic Road Walkway

Scenic Road is a two-mile one-way stretch of road on the waterfront of Carmel. It has beautiful views of the ocean and you can drive it, but walking it is even better.

As you drive along Scenic Road, you’ll notice a walkway that leads from the bluffs of Carmel Beach. Take the stairs up here and relax on one of the park benches to enjoy the sunset view. If you are driving there is parking on Scenic Road and Ocean Avenue.

Best Places for Sunset in Carmel, Ca

Carmel has some of the most beautiful sunsets if you want to relax and take in the views over the ocean, here are a few suggestions for sunset in Carmel.

Carmel Beach is within walking distance from Ocean Avenue and the long sandy beach makes for the perfect easy spot to watch the sunset.

Point Lobos State Reserve is also a great spot to watch the sunset from one of the park’s many trails. Carmel River State Beach is the perfect place to set out a picnic and watch the sunset from its wide open expanse of sand and crashing waves.

Take a drive down the scenic 17-Mile Drive which offers stunning views of the coastline and several designated spots to pull over and enjoy the sunset. Our favorite is at the Ghost Tree or Lone Cypress.

Tor House and Hawk Tower is another option located on a rocky outcropping above Carmel Beach.

18. Wine Tours

If you are a wine lover, one of the best things to do in Carmel is to take a wine tour. You don’t even have to leave the village! Carmel has a dozen tasting rooms for wine tastings. Because we stayed in the village, we could enjoy the fine Californian wines from the Carmel Valley wine region that we picked up to take with us for evenings during our road trip through central California.

Take a stroll through the village in search of one of many secret passageways in Carmel to find your favorite Pinot Noir or California Zinfandel. My favorite white is a California Chardonnay and they have that too!

• Some wine-tasting rooms to check out are:
  • Albatross Ridge Tasting Room on Dolores Street
  • Wrath Wines on Ocean Avenue
  • Blair Estate Tasting Room on Mission Street at the Carmel Plaza

Another fine product produced in the Carmel Valley is olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar so be sure to pick some up as you are browsing the shops in the village.

19. Take a Tour of Tor House

One of the more unique things to do in Carmel is to take a tour of the home of California poet Robinson Jeffers. In 1914, Jeffers began building Tor House and Hawk Tower after falling in love with the Carmel-Big Sur coast.

His family resided there and it was here that he wrote many of his works. He then built Hawk Tower – a stone tower that he built himself as a retreat for his wife. You can tour Tor House which is open to preserve the legacy of Robinson Jeffers.

The house is named after the rocky outcroppings on the nearby coastline, which are known as “torrs.” The surrounding gardens were also designed by Jeffers and feature a variety of native plants and trees, as well as sculptures and other art pieces created by Jeffers himself.

Today, Tor House is open to the public for guided tours and is considered an important cultural and historical landmark in the Carmel-by-the-Sea community.

20. Garland Ranch Regional Park

If you are looking for more outdoor things to do in Carmel by the sea, Garland Ranch Regional Park is a popular outdoor recreational area located in Carmel Valley. the park is dog friendly, so you will see many locos out for a walk with their furry friend.

With 4, 000 acres of trails, Garland Ranch Regional Park is perfect for hiking. It is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, bobcats, and mountain lions. Birders will love keeping an eye out for hawks, eagles, and owls.

One of the more unique things you can do here is to book a guided horseback tour of the park. Horseback riding is allowed on most of the trails. If you want to do some mountain biking in the Carmel Valley, it is allowed on the Cooper Ranch Loop trail.

About Carmel by The Sea, California

With its small village atmosphere and stunning scenery, Carmel California has attracted artists for decades. It first caught the eye of Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo when he spied its white-sand beaches.

The Spaniards sailed past it for a century before Father Junipero Serra founded the second California mission in 1771 which still stands today. At the turn of the 20th century, artists were drawn to the shores of Carmel to create an artist’s oasis and after the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906, it really took hold as people made Carmel by the Sea their permanent residence.

Carmel California – Fun Facts

Old traditions still hold on a century later and to this day there are no street addresses outside of the downtown core of Carmel. No chain restaurants have set up shop in Carmel by the Sea opting for more boutique and fine dining restaurants, wine-tasting rooms, and family-owned businesses.

You also won’t see any parking meters or street lights in Carmel.

And just for fun, did you know it is illegal to wear high heels in Carmel? While it is not enforced, if you want to wear heels, you will need to get a permit to do so. (Free of charge at the town hall) This law was set up in the 1960s to ensure the forest and natural setting of Carmel stayed intact without anyone suing for tripping over the roots and trees are strewn throughout town.

Frank Lloyd Wright even built a cabin in Carmel CA. in 1949. The cabin is located on a secluded wooded property in the Carmel Highlands at Carmel Point, just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

It was built as a vacation home for a local resident and is considered an excellent example of Wright’s Usonian style. The cabin is privately owned and is not open to the public but it just goes to show how influential this part of California has been for artists over the years.

While Carmel touts Doris Day, Jack London, and Clint Eastwood as its famous residents, celebrities still own property in Pebble Beach with this exclusive community having real estate reach up to 15 million dollars.

Where to Stay in Carmel, California

There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Carmel by the Sea from the resorts at Pebble Beach to downtown Carmel hotels, there is no shortage of lodging.

We stayed at The Hideaway which had gorgeous rooms and was located just half a mile from the beach and a 3 minute walk from Ocean Avenue. It was centrally located in downtown Carmel so we could walk to restaurants at night making it a great base. Rooms start at over $200 USD per night, but it is worth it. TripAdvisor / Booking.com

Another charming hotel in Carmel is Cypress Inn – This legendary hotel was owned by actress Doris Day and is billed the most pet-friendly hotel in the country. This luxury boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown. Check prices on TripAdvisor / Booking.com

The Lodge at Pebble Beach – Pebble Beach is a community just minutes away from Carmel by the Sea. Stay at this exclusive resort with ocean front and ocean-view rooms in complete luxury. This historic hotel dates back to 1919 and is close to several places to see including Seal Rock Creek Beach and the Lone Cypress. Check availability on TripAdvisor

Vacation Rentals in Carmel

A great way to save money in Carmel is to stay in a vacation rental and share the price with other couples or families. This ocean front property sleeps 8 and is located at the beach. It is a 30 minute walk into the village or a 5 minute drive.

For two people a stay in this quiet cottage is a good affordable option. It is a little out from each attractions, but it is in the center of it all at less than 4 miles from Cannery Row, 1.2 miles from Carmel Beach, and 1.8 miles from 17 Mile Drive and the Delmonte Forest.

For something more central, check out this cozy one bedroom just a short walk to both the beach and close to downtown.

Where to Eat in Carmel, California

One of the best restaurants in Carmel is La Belana Cucina Toscana. It takes you straight to the heart of Tuscany with a traditional setting, fresh local olive oil, local fine wines and chees . Sit outside on the heated patio and enjoy a fresh farm to table menu drizzled in olive oil and truffles.

Pescadero is one of the best restaurants in Carmel for Mexican cuisine with a Baja inspired menu.

If you are looking for pub food with a hipster vibe, Brophy’s Tavern is one of the most popular restaurants in Carmel.

For coffee lovers, another place to grab a specialty coffee is cafe Carmel. But don’t worry, there are plenty of coffee shops in Carmel by the Sea to get your caffeine fix. For a full list of restaurants visit the Carmel official website.

How to Get to Carmel by The Sea, California

The village of Carmel by the Sea is located on California’s central coast in Monterey County. It is approximately 120 miles (2 hours) south of the San Francisco Bay area and 350 miles (5 hours) north of Los Angeles. We suggest renting a car and you can compare car rental prices at RentalCars.com.

You can drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea from San Francisco or Los Angeles on the scenic California Highway 1. From San Francisco, take the 101 South to Monterey and then head south on Highway 1. From Los Angeles, take the 101 North to Salinas and then head west on Highway 68.

The nearest airports to Carmel-by-the-Sea are Monterey Regional Airport, located just 10 miles away, and San Jose International Airport, located about 75 miles away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Several bus companies operate services to Carmel-by-the-Sea, including Greyhound and Monterey-Salinas Transit. These buses stop at the Carmel-by-the-Sea bus station, located in the heart of town.

Carmel by the Sea is just 10 minutes from Monterey and it is easy to explore Carmel village by either making a base there, Pebble Beach, or Carmel by the Sea.

When to visit Carmel, California

Being located in Central California, there is really no bad time to visit Carmel by the Sea but summer is obviously the best time for beach weather as the temperatures are the warmest. But it is crowded.

We were in Carmel during late Spring and loved the weather. It was pleasant during the day with cool evenings.

Fall still has warm weather and is less crowded than summer.

Whale Watching in Monterey County

You’ll be able to spot whales year-round in the ocean waters of Carmel California.

• Humpback whales migrate from March – November
• Grey whales migrate from December-May
• Blue whales from May to October

And these are the best things to do in Carmel, California with a few fun facts and locations near Carmel by the Sea. Have we made you want to visit Carmel?

Tor House photo courtesy of McGhiever, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Key Largo is the longest island in the Florida Keys archipelago. As one of the best places to visit in Florida, it has that idyllic allure – with palm trees, tiki bars, and coral reefs that will widen even the most experienced diver’s eyes. Key Largo attractions are mostly related to marine life and the underwater world. However, there are also plenty of historical and cultural things to do in Key Largo. The Florida island is a hotspot for local artists and is passionate about preserving its history.

Top Things to Do in Key Largo, Florida

This guide will cover the very best things to do in Key Largo. Key Largo is bound to tick many boxes, from beaches to scenic road trips. Let’s get started.

1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the first underwater park in the US. The state park covers 70 square miles with beautiful coral reefs and marine life galore. One fantastic thing about Key Largo is how hard it works alongside the other Florida Keys to preserve its underwater habitat. While visitors can enjoy John Pennekamp State Park, there are regulations and restrictions on activities like fishing. The state park is a beautiful ode to Key Largo residents’ close relationship with the ocean.

We recommend a glass bottom boat tour, snorkeling tour, or scuba diving experience to enjoy John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to the fullest. We’ll cover these activities separately as the state park is such an icon and attraction in its own right. But keep them in mind as clever ways to get the most out of this attraction. There’s also the Mangrove Nature Trail, where you can admire the state park from an overwater boardwalk – best for those less confident swimmers.

If you are into snorkeling then this is the best tour to take in Key Largo. You get to visit 2 different reef systems and it includes basically everything. We highly recommend it.

2. Scuba Diving

Considering Key Largo’s nickname of the ‘scuba diving capital of the world’, seeing this activity in our guide is hardly surprising. One of the best things we did in Key Largo was to get under the water and check out the marine life. We saw sea turtles, manatees, and sharks and were surprised to learn that Key Largo also has the world’s largest artificial living coral reef – the USS Spiegel Grove wreck. Spiegel Grove is a massive ship sunk in 2002 and is the world’s 3rd largest intentionally sunk boat.

Aside from the USS Spiegel Grove wreck, scuba diving tours visit Canon Patch Reef and John Pennekamp Coral Reed to experience more of the underwater world and sea life. Key Largo even has an underwater statue of Jesus Christ. Key Largo is the place to appreciate the best of the state’s underwater habitats.

3. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Speaking of underwater worlds, a fun fact about Florida is that its home to the only coral barrier reef in the US. Florida Reef, which is in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is a massive reserve that is home to a ton of mangroves, shipwrecks, and coral reefs. The famed Molasses Reef also lies within the sanctuary’s boundaries. The sanctuary is one of the best Key Largo attractions if you fancy a day trip by boat.

You don’t need to scuba dive to enjoy the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Just grab your fins and snorkel because you can literally see everything from the surface. We recommend jumping on one of the many snorkeling tours running from the Florida Keys mainland. You can spot everything from tiny sea urchins to giant lobsters, and you may even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two.

4. Harry Harris Beach and Park

Harry Harris Park is a beautiful sheltered beach. The park is a 10-minutes south of Key Largo by car, and it is the perfect day trip for a peaceful beach day. If you feel like a challenge, you can also bike to Harry Harris Park – it is a 45-minute bike ride. With white sand and palm trees, it is that postcard version of Key Largo. But Harry Harris Park isn’t just somewhere to snap pictures for social media; its shallow waters are family-friendly and ideal for the less confident swimmer. Locals and handfuls of tourists congregate at the beach to swim, eat, and socialize.

Harry Harris Park has picnic areas, public barbeques, and sports facilities. Grab some ingredients and head down to cook up a storm. Tavernier is much less busy than Key Largo. Visiting Harry Harris Park is easily one of the best things to do in Key Largo. It’s superb for just relaxing and enjoying a beach day. And who doesn’t need a chilled day from time to time?

5. African Queen Canal Cruise

One of the most fun things to do in Key Largo is to cruise down the Port Largo canals. The Florida Keys are undoubtedly best experienced from the water. And what is more relaxing than sailing down the Port Largo canals to sightsee the beautiful region?

The most popular cruise company has a boat that has become a celebrity. African Queen Canal Cruise uses a restored steamboat from 1912 featured in the film ‘The African Queen’. This company offers different cruise types, including dinner cruises to the Pilot House Marina. African Queen Canal Cruise operates from the Marina del Mar. Daily cruises run at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm. You can always request a private dinner or lunch cruise if you have at least four people.

6. History of Diving Museum

What would the dive capital of the world be without a museum to commemorate its history? The History of Diving Museum is one of the weirdest and most wonderful things to do in Key Largo. The attraction is entirely dedicated to the history behind diving – showcasing everything from relics and ancient equipment. The helmet collection is the most impressive. It almost appears like some nod to space travel and offers a much-needed perspective on scuba diving as a form of historical exploration.

Entrance prices are relatively modest, at $15 for adults as of 2023. Children, veterans, and current military get to enter for free. On a rainy day, you should make the History of Diving Museum top of your to-do list. There are just a few high-quality indoor activities in Key Largo, so keep this one in mind.

7. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the US and a designated world heritage site. Spanning a staggering 1.5 million acres of wetlands, the Everglades are most famous for their mangroves and resident crocodiles. If you are lucky, you can also spot leatherback sea turtles, dolphins, Florida panthers, and manatees. Everglades National Park is run by the animal kingdom – which is impossible not to love.

In Everglades National Park, you can hike the Anhinga Trail, take a boat or kayak ride, or even join a ranger-led tour. And in terms of reaching the Everglades from Key Largo, it is a total breeze by car. It is just a 45-minute drive along the scenic overwater highway and alongside the Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area.

8. Key Largo Art Gallery

Key Largo Art Gallery is an absolute must for art enthusiasts. It offers a platform for local artists and a channel of culture that balances out the island’s focus on ocean-related activities. The artwork comes from a collection of around 30 local artists and has plenty of range. You can browse the pieces on display. And if you are feeling frivolous, you can head to the ‘for sale’ section to treat yourself to some artwork. A beautiful sketch or painting is a lovely souvenir from Key Largo.

While there is no official tour, Key Largo Art Gallery staff are rumored to be very knowledgeable. You should find them happy to answer your questions and give a brilliant insight into some of the artwork.

9. Coral Restoration Foundation Exploration Center

Coral Restoration Foundation Exploration Center is run by a few locals ambitious about ocean conservation. The not-for-profit restores coral reefs and educates on the importance of the ocean. Its passionate volunteers carefully monitor coral reefs’ health and aid growth where necessary. You can visit the center to learn more through exhibits and educational lectures. It is one of the most meaningful things to do in Key Largo.

If you have a bit longer in Key Largo, consider volunteering with the Coral Restoration Foundation Exploration Center. You can help partake in dive programs and carry out scientific outreach activities. The work is hugely rewarding and essential for the survival of Key Largo’s reefs.

10. Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is Key Largo’s nearest animal hospital. Located just a 10-minute drive away on the neighboring island of Tavernier, it is an easy half-day activity from Key Largo. And while the wild bird hospital is too busy with wildlife emergencies to cater to visitors, the adjoining sanctuary and rehabilitation center welcomes guests year-round.

Sadly, some birds never recover enough to be released. These are kept in natural enclosures, and it falls to volunteers to guarantee their daily enrichment. Other birds in the sanctuary and rehabilitation center are waiting to be fit for release. The spacious surroundings, full of greenery, are the perfect place for birds to recover before returning to the more challenging wilderness. Visitors stroll along a huge boardwalk and can participate in daily activities like pelican feeding.

11. Florida Keys Brewing Company

Florida Keys Brewing Company is a brilliant microbrewery located in Islamorada. The microbrewery is just a 25-minute drive away – or 45 minutes by bus if you plan on drinking. Florida Keys Brewing Company has a beer garden, funky multi-colored decor, and brewery merch, and it is dog friendly. Honestly, what more could you ask for? It is a far cry from the stiff-lipped breweries and distilleries you find worldwide. Florida Keys Brewing Company is wholeheartedly fun, and visiting is one of the best things to do in Key Largo.

Visitors, get ready to sample a huge range of craft beers on tap. There is tons to try, from light and fruity IPAs to heavy dark ales. Florida Keys Brewing Company’s bartenders are always down to guide you through the options with their expertise. It’s a fun day out, especially for those interested in brewing craft beer.

12. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a beautiful 2,421-acre park. The trails encompass over 80 protected plants and animals – from wild cotton to crocodiles. The park is hiking and biking-friendly, so choose your mode of exploration. Most of the trails are paved, with only a few rougher paths with exposed tree roots and the odd stumble-sized rock.

Located in the center of Key Largo, the park is easy to squeeze into your itinerary. It is named after Dagny Johnson, a poignant environmental activist in the Florida Keys region. Visiting is a beautiful morning activity. Try to get there early so you beat the midday sun. And bring some binoculars for the best chances of wildlife sightings.

13. Fishing

Key Largo is far from just somewhere to fish; it’s a fisherman’s dream. Deep sea fishing is equally popular on Key Largo; you can catch some monstrous-looking fish. Tarpon, sailfish, sea trout, and mahi mahi are all fair game.

To enjoy fishing in Key Largo, head to a designated fishing spot along the shore. Certain areas exist in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Long Sound. Alternatively, you can splash out on a deep-sea fishing tour. If you want deep-sea fishing, stick to the offshore season – November to March.

14. Glass Bottom Boat Tours

A glass-bottom boat tour is one of the most fun things to do in Key Largo. The bottom of the boat is entirely transparent, meaning passengers get a front-row seat to the tropical fish and other beautiful marine life. Even better, you see all the animals in their natural habitats – a much more ethical encounter than an aquarium offers. Glass bottom boat tours are lovely ways to experience the underwater world without swimming. As such, elderly visitors, children, and non-swimmers will lap up this activity in Key Largo.

These tours are all over Florida Bay, including from Marina del Mar, but this is the one we recommend. It is usually only an hour or two’s long experience. Allow around half a day for a glass boat experience, including all the embarking and disembarking.

15. Have A Drink At Cruisin’ Tikis

Cruisin’ Tikis is the coolest thing ever. This is a bar that you’ll remember. The tiki bar is a tiny boat with a working bar in the center and seating on the outside. You float along the water – partying, snapping photos, and admiring the scenery with a drink in hand. Forget paying extortionate money to listen to live music on a private beach; Cruisin’ Tikis has an intimate and more exclusive atmosphere. Just six passengers are allowed on Key Largo’s most special vessel.

Combine sightseeing and happy hour by booking an experience at this tiki bar. Bar cruises last between an hour and two hours. And for an even more memorable experience, reserve the bar for sunset.

16. Feed Tarpon

Remember that Finding Nemo quote, “Fish are friends, not food”? The Tarpon Feeding Deck in Key West allows you to channel the same sentiment in real life. Here, locals and visitors flock to feed the local tarpon. Tarpons know the score, and groups of up to 200 can hover around the deck at a time. These fish are giant and sometimes reach 150 lbs – making feeding tarpon one of the most exciting things to do in Key Largo.

You can feed tarpon most bait types. Buy the bait when you reach Key West since it is a 2-hour and 20-minute drive south from Key Largo. If you plan to drive the length of the Florida Keys, plan to feed the tarpon at the end. The feeding deck is right at the end of the keys, but luckily it is a worthy road trip with plenty of things to do en route.

17. Keys History and Discovery Center

Keys History and Discovery Center is located a 30-minute drive away from Key Largo on the island of Islamorada. So, what exactly makes it one of the best things to do in Key Largo? Easy. The history and local information it provides wholly justify a day trip. The center whisks visitors through exhibits on everything from hurricanes to indigenous culture and an aquarium. If you want to visit Key Largo and understand the island, Keys History and Discovery Center is your best activity option.

The center uses classic exhibits and artifacts. It also features a movie theater where documentaries are played on a schedule. Some discovery centers can be so basic or bland that they make history off-putting. There is no chance of this with Keys History and Discovery Center. The place is alive with its history and a fantastic day out – whether visiting as a family, or a single traveler.

18. Beach Hop

When in Rome, like they say. And when on Key Largo, beach hopping is a must. There are tons of beautiful beaches in Key Largo. Some of the best include Cannon Beach, Far Beach, and Harris Beach and Park (which we mentioned earlier). Key Largo’s expanse of white sand makes up some of the island’s most magnificent natural wonders. Pack a beach towel and plenty of water and hit one of the beaches for a day of sunshine, sunbathing, and swimming.

Cannon Beach is located inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Far Beach is near mile marker 120, and Harris Beach and State Park are in Tavernier. Harris Beach is the most family-friendly, with plenty of sports facilities.

19. Dolphin Watching Tour

Dolphin watching is one of the dreamiest experiences in Key Largo. You always remember your first dolphin. And spotting wild dolphins is one of the most therapeutic and memorable experiences of a lifetime. The waters around Key Largo are teeming with wild dolphins. Our advice is to avoid all the dolphin encounters that involve keeping dolphins in captivity and head out to the wild. Instead, head out on an ethical boat ride.

Dolphin-watching tours embark from all over the Florida Keys. Most excursions depart from Islamorada or Key West. It is worth traveling the extra distance since Key Largo has a lot of unethical dolphin shows that use animals kept in captivity. Plus, seeing a pod of wildlife dolphins is so much more exciting as it has the element of suspense.

20. Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Rather than running a zoo-like refuge, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge runs solely for the benefit of the animals. This operations model means that the refuge is closed to the public. Instead, it runs day and night to provide natural habitats for crocodiles and other native animals. The refuge is a massive private, protected land where animals are guaranteed peace.

However, visitors can visit the adjoining Community Butterfly Garden. The specimen of butterflies is stunning, and it is one of the most fun things to do on the Florida Keys if you want a relaxing activity. You can walk amongst the colorful butterflies and flowers, lapping the natural beauty. If you have extra time, you could also volunteer at the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This is an excellent way to experience the habitats not open to the public, and you could do anything from python patrol to habitat restoration.

21. Parasailing

Parasailing is one of the most popular water sports, and it’s easy to see why. You are released off the back of a speeding boat, rising until BAM. You reach the rope’s end and are suspended hundreds of feet above the ocean. The panoramic views you get are unmatched. If you thought Key Largo was beautiful before, wait until you see it from the sky.

Parasailing is one of the best ways to get a vantage point of Key Largo and the Florida Keys. It is also the perfect adrenaline rush for an adventure seeker.

22. Cycle the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail

Before leaving Key Largo, you must check out the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail. This beast of a hiking or biking trail is 106 miles in length. It was once an overseas railroad, but in January 2022, the trail was transformed into a route for walkers and cyclists. Using the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, you can explore all the islands on two wheels without a car. Is it a challenge? Yes. Is it worth it? Definitely.

If you want a scenic cycle ride but aren’t up for 106 miles, consider splitting the route into little sections. You could complete the whole trail in a week or spend an hour or two cycling your section of choice. It has the potential to be recreational or practical as well. Take your pick.

23. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is a beautiful natural attraction on the neighboring island of Islamorada. Just a 20-minute drive away, the limestone quarry offers cross-sectional views of fossilized coral. Key Largo may be the diving capital of the world. But the history Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park encapsulates in its rocks is unrivaled in ocean history.

Walking around Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, you have information boards describing scenes around you along the way. This thoughtful touch means that you can take independent tours if you wish. The hiking trails are easy to follow, with lots of essential details. Otherwise, you can book one of the ranger-led tours for some extra direction.

Things To Do in Key Largo: FAQs

Now that we’ve covered the best things to do in Key Largo, let’s look at some essential FAQs. Here are all the details you need before you visit Key Largo.

How To Get To Key Largo

The easiest way to reach Key Largo is by plane and then a rental car. You fly directly into Miami International Airport and then pick up a rental car from the airport. It is an hour’s drive from the airport across the beautiful Overseas Highway. This route is quick and easy. Plus, you get the freedom to stop wherever you want along the way – why not make the most of the drive?

Otherwise, you can catch a shuttle bus to Key Largo. Shuttles run from significant departure places like Miami and the international airport. You could also road trip to Key Largo, depending on where you depart. Key Largo is well combined with other Florida attractions like national parks, barrier islands, and cities like Orlando and Tampa. This option best suits those with lots of time and is a real adventure for those up for the challenge.

Getting Around Key Largo

Getting around Key Largo requires a car. You can use shuttles and taxis, but that can get expensive and you will miss out on a lot. We recommend renting a car either at the airport or booking it beforehand.

If you are still deciding whether to hire a car or spend money on shuttles and taxis, consider getting a bike rental. This option is best suited to people who are in shape but worth a try if you have the stamina.

The Best Time To Visit Key Largo

The best time to visit Key Largo is March. March is full of festivities, including St Patrick’s Day and Conch Republic Independence Celebration. The weather is warm but not exhaustingly hot, and it is dry, so perfect for beach hopping. In this area of Florida, December to April is the dry season.

For those on a budget, you could visit in June, October, or November. These are within the hurricane season, so be mindful of weather warnings. However, these are the cheapest and hottest months to visit Key Largo. It is something to consider if you are pinching pennies and can arrange the trip responsibly.

Fun Things to Do in Key Largo Florida

By now, you’ll feel inspired and full of ideas for things to do in Key Largo. The ‘diving capital of the world’ is packed with things, too, from spotting crocodiles to snorkeling with manatees. Key Largo’s attractions and activities are incredibly fascinating for travelers interested in marine life. It is ranked as an International Biosphere Reserve, formally recognizing its importance to the natural world.

If you are wondering where to stay in the Florida Keys, consider an underwater hotel called Jules Undersea Lodge. Guests scuba dive to their rooms daily, and Jules Undersea Lodge is the only underwater hotel in the US. If Jules Undersea Lodge sounds too restrictive, plenty of vacation rentals exist for a self-catered accommodation experience.

In terms of extra inspiration, there are plenty of day trips that you can take to other islands in the Florida Keys. One of the main reasons Key Largo is one of the best places to stay in the Florida Keys is that it is ideally located to explore other places in the Keys. There are so many things to do in Islamorada and things to do in Key West. Enjoy Key Largo’s best attractions (and all its surrounding day trips), and have a wonderful trip.

One of our favorite things to do when traveling is to explore iconic historical places in the world. There are many people who make a point of visiting as many UNESCO world heritage sites as they can and use that goal as a theme for their travels. Ticking off these amazing historical sites is a great way to choose where to go on your next vacation. So we thought we’d help you plan your travels around our favorite historical sites in the world that we’ve seen.

The Best Historical Places in the World

If you are a history buff, you are going to love exploring these iconic historical places. We have listed some of the most famous historical sites and some lesser-known historic sites. If you are looking to add a UNESCO World Heritage Site or two to your bucket list. You’ve come to the right spot. Our list will help you decide if they are worth adding to your travel list.

1. Colosseum, Italy

We were spoiled when we first visited the Colosseum of Rome staying in a luxury apartment looking directly at the Colosseum every morning from our bedroom window. It is an extraordinary sight to wake up to and people agree. The Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist destinations on Earth.

Not only is the Colosseum one of the most iconic historical places on earth, but it was also named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The giant amphitheater (also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre) in the heart of Rome is the top tourist attraction in Rome and one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

Dating back to 72 AD, The Colosseum was used for gladiators battling to their deaths. Much of Rome is a protected area and UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is filled with monuments and museums including nearby Palentine Hill, the Roman Forum, The Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps.

2. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza are a tough historical place to rate. If you go at the wrong time or take the wrong tour, it can be a miserable experience as it is a popular tourist destination overrun with people. If you choose the wrong tour, you are shuffled around in a crowd dodging touts and tour buses as you try to take a moment to savor the experience of seeing the Great Pyramid. However, the Pyramids of Giza are one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit.

We have visited the Pyramids of Giza four times by camel, bus, private tour and even by bicycle. The camel ride along the Giza Plateau was an amazing way to see the Pyramids of Giza making us feel like Lawrence of Arabia as we explored the complex.

3. Great Sphinx of Giza

The temple complex is made up of the Great Sphinx of Giza, and the three temples of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. The Great Sphinx stands proud in front Great Pyramid and it doesn’t seem real.

Dating back 5000 years the Pyramids of Giza are the only remaining structures from the seven wonders of the ancient world. When you see them with your own eyes, you truly become a believer that aliens may have existed. How were these massive monuments made by man? How did they stand the test of time?

They truly are magical. This incredible site of Memphis and its Necropolis including the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur was inducted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

4. Acropolis, Greece

Athens is one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth and we love that city. It is filled with magnificent architecture and wonderful ruins. I think it was during our third visit to Athens that we really fell in love with the Acropolis and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the ancient city.

Make sure to get a 6 Archaeological Sites Pass, for access to all the most famous historical sites in Athens and to learn of its ancient civilizations that resided within the temple complex.

The Parthenon is the most famous structure of the Acropolis and it offers beautiful views as you stand from the most recognizable structure dedicated to the Goddess Athena it dating back to the mid-4th century BC.

Take a stroll through human history at the ancient temple of Athena, Temple of Nike, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus Theatre, and much more. This incredible monument standing has stood proud over Athens for more than 2000 years and is a tribute to ancient Greece.

5. Chichen Itza, Mexico

Chichen Itza was the first historical place we ever visited. Located in the Yucátan Peninsula, this must-see archaeological site was named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. This UNESCO World Heritage Site blew my mind. We actually visited Chichen Itza years ago when you could still climb to the top of the ancient temple of El Castillo.

This is where we became fascinated with the Mayan culture and ancient civilization. After visiting this ancient city in the Yucátan Peninsula, we made a point to see them all in the future. (and we are pretty close to achieving that goal!)

If you can rent or hire a car to visit before the tour buses arrive, we highly recommend it. This place gets busy. Chichen-Itza is a long drive from Cancun, so combine it with a full tour stopping at a Cenote, and the Colonial City of Valladolid.

6. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is located outside of Beijing and we have visited it twice and each time we’ve found it to be awe-inspiring.

Named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, there are several different sections to visit with the Badaling Wall and Mutianyu Wall being the most accessible. Each was a very different experience, but both were incredible to see.

The Great Wall of China was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987 and dates back 3000 years offering a glimpse into the ancient world.

It actually consists of several different walls brought together after China’s warring states were unified under the rule of Emperor Qin. It was during the Qin Dynasty, more than 2000 years ago that the Great Wall was unified and constructed.

For us, The Great Wall of China lived up to the hype. We visited the Badaling and Mutianyu Great Walls of China and each was a different experience. Badaling attracts local tourists and is very crowded with local visitors since it is the closest wall to Beijing. However, that is exactly what makes it so exciting.

Mutianyu is a little farther out from the city of Beijing and there are far fewer tourists here. It is just as beautiful and impressive. For over a thousand years, the wall served as protection from the nomadic tribes to the north. Later dynasties repaired and maintained the wall to keep their fortification intact.

7. Petra, Jordan

We didn’t know what to expect before visiting Petra in Jordan other than Petra had been the setting for movies like Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Alladin, Transformers, and The Mummy Returns. But when we entered beautiful Petra, we immediately understood how it was listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

As we walked the 1.3 km along the Siq towards the grand square housing the treasury, we were enthralled by the high cliffs along the narrow path. It’s no wonder this complex remained hidden from the outside world for centuries. And it was easy to imagine that the Holy Grail could have been hidden here (like Indiana Jones made us all believe)

Seeing the facades of the Treasury and Monastery carved into the red sandstone is awe-inspiring. How did the ancient Nabataeans manage to create such a masterpiece two thousand years ago?

Created in the 2nd century AD, Petra is located three hours from the capital city of Amman. Bedouins had used this place since the 3rd century BC, but it lay hidden from outsiders until a mere 200 years ago. Surprisingly, the Ancient City of Petra was unknown to the Western world. It wasn’t until 1812 that it was “discovered” by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. 

This caravan city was a major trading route between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea and was inducted into the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1985.

8. Taj Mahal

Oftentimes we lament that The Taj Mahal was a bit of a letdown during our travels through India but upon reflection, I am so glad that we saw the most famous structue in India. It is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World after all.

The Taj Mahal in Agra, India is the most iconic monument in India. Built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is considered the ultimate love letter. He had it commissioned to honor his wife.

It took more than 20 years to build the Taj Mahal and he lived in sadness until his death. It fell to ruin over the years, but luckily, the British viceroy of India – Lord Curzon, put an end to looting and restored it to its former glory. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of 1983 and the Taj Mahal was named one of the new 7 Wonders of the World.

9. Tikal, Guatemala

Our visit to the ruins of Tikal in Guatemala was unlike any other. What enthralled us about Tikal is that the pyramids have been taken over by the jungle. Mounds of pyramids jut out from the earth hinting that something wonderful was underneath in Tikal National Park. This jungle setting is what puts Tikal at the top of historical places in the world.

Howler monkeys cry in the distance and spider monkeys play in the trees overhead. Leafcutter ants cut tracks through the jungle and you can climb its massive towers where you are treated to endless views of the rainforest. When visiting Central America, this ancient wonder should be put at the top of your list.

This ancient historical site was one of the major sites of Mayan civilization and dates back to the 6th century BC. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Located in northern Guatemala sits what many consider to be the “best Mayan Ruins in the world.” 

The temples themselves are astounding with magnificent architecture dating back to 600 and 900 AD. The North Acropolis 1 is the highest and most impressive, while the Plaza of the Seven Temples is one of the largest plazas in Tikal dating back to

People are also allowed to climb almost all of the ruins and we highly recommend going up for sunrise to listen to the sounds of howler monkeys roaring in the mist. The views are spectacular from above the jungle canopy. You may even recognize the view from Star Wars: A New Hope where it was featured at the end of the original movie.

10. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and with good reason. Machu Picchu is both a cultural and natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. History buffs must visit this ancient Inca city, high in the Andes of Peru. Since its discovery of the Western World in 1911, growing numbers of tourists have visited the site each year and it can become very crowded.

Located 3 hours by train from the city of Cusco, it is not the ruins themselves that make Machu Pichu impressive, it is its setting. Terraced blocks of brick buildings plunge into the valley below.

Trekking to Machu Picchu can be done in four days along the Inca Trail creating a spiritual journey you will never forget. Even though it is touristy, Peru has limited visitors, and hiking the trail is a solid challenge.

How many ancient cities are located 2430 meters above sea level? The this Lost City of the Incas sits high on a mountain in the Andes of Peru.

11. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is an ancient city in the jungles of Cambodia. Located just outside the town of Siem Reap, it was once the most powerful city in Southeast Asia with the Khmer Empire dominating the land.

What makes this historical place so impressive is the fact that it has been reclaimed by much of the jungle. Tree roots weave through the temples overtaking many of the structures. Make sure to spend a few days exploring the ancient city.

We hired a private tuk-tuk leaving early in the morning from our guest house in Siem Reap to watch the ancient temple of Angkor Wat. By the afternoon, Angkor Wat is overrun with tourists on group tours, so we head back to explore more of Siem Reap and the surrounding area. And then went back to Angkor Wat again the next day to pick up where we left off.

12. Cappadocia, Turkey

The fairytale chimneys of Cappadocia are a dream and one of the best known places in the world to take a hot air balloon ride. We had wanted to see from above at sunrise looking over the vast valleys with names like Love Valley, Rose Valley, and Red Valley. Read more: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon

Cappadocia is an ancient land created by a series of volcanic eruptions in the  Central Anatolian region of Turkey. Throughout the ages stone spire formations scattered the valley where early peoples created cave dwellings into the sandstone cliffs. Today many of those caves have been turned into luxury hotels.

13. Bagan

Dave and I have seen a lot of pagodas and temples in Asia from Borobudur to Angkor Wat, but it was the historical city of Bagan that took our breath away. Located in Myanmar on the Irrawaddy River, Bagan is a vast complex of temples that was built between the 11th and 13 centuries. It truly is a must see historical site in Myanmar.

At one time there were more than 10,000 temples and today and today 3500 still remain. Bagan barely made the UNESCO World Heritage list after Myanmar’s military junta restored many of the temples in a shoddy manner but once restrictions were lifted, it eventually made the list.

14. Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge in England is one of the top places to celebrate the winter solstice. It has made a lot of news this week showcasing the glorious sunrise after the longest night of the year. The UNESCO historical site dates back 5000 years but nobody truly knows their purposes.

The stone circle is of great religious importance to those of the Druidic faith. It sits on the Salisbury Plain as it has since the Neolithic age 5,000 years ago. That was 500 years before the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.

Theories range from being a burial site, a place of worship, and a place for religious ceremonies. I’ll stick to aliens.

15. Newgrange, Ireland

The jewel in the Crown of Ireland’s Ancient East is a massive passage tomb is more than just a tomb that is also one of the best places to celebrate the winter solstice.

200,000 tones of rock stacked 12.5 meters (41 feet) high. Dating back to 3200 BC it is older than both the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge. Yet it is not nearly as famous.

We went inside to explore its mysterious inner chamber where archeologists have yet to uncover what exactly this was used for. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ireland is definitely worth visiting.

16. Lalibela, Ethiopia

While cycling through Ethiopia I asked a fellow cyclist what he thought of Lalibella and he said “It almost makes me believe in God.” This incredible historical site consists of 11 rock churches dug into the ground.

The medieval structures are a pilgrimage site and Lalibela is the holiest city in Ethiopia. What Ethiopia is going through right now is devastating, but hopefully, there will be peace and we can all enjoy the beauty of this country again soon. Read more: 27 Best Places to Visit in Africa

17. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is still a shining star of the United States providing hope and freedom. It is part of the National Register of Historic Places and probably the best known of all the historical places on this list.

It was gifted to the United States in 1884 to welcome immigrants and visiting this symbol of freedom is one of the top things to do in New York City. The Statue of Liberty was created by the French sculptor Bartholdi and Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame). Read more Fun Facts About New York

ocated at the entrance to New York Harbor, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of Manhattan where you will take a walk through history. Make sure to visit Ellis Island which is part of your ticket to the Statue of Liberty.

18. Washington DC Monuments

Washington DC is filled with historic monuments representing the United States. From the White House to the Lincoln Memorial, this is definitely a town filled with historical places. One of our favorites was the Thomas Jefferson Memorial which was modeled after the Pantheon of Rome.

But there is a memorial for everyone from the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and war memorials of the Vietnam and Korean Wars. Read more: 12 Must-See Washington DC Monuments and Memorials in Photos

19. Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling two continents divided by the Bosphorus peninsula, the old city of Istanbul has so much historical significance that the entire historical area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From the Hagia Sophia, The Blue Mosque, the Grand Baazar Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome of Constantine, and the aqueduct of Valens, there is so much to explore. It was inducted into the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1985 and is not to be missed.

20. Rideau Canal, Canada

Many of Canada’s UNESCO Sites are natural historical places, but there are a few places like Old Quebec City and Lunenberg that are man-made. However, it s the Rideau Canal that had us completely fascinated. Having spent 3 weeks exploring it this summer, we learned that this feat of engineering is an Ontario hidden gem.

The 202 km long waterway is a network of 24 lock stations containing 47 historic locks from Ottawa to Kingston. Built in 1832 as an alternative to navigating the St. Lawrence River in case of war, the workers of the Rideau Canal faced many hardships cutting through the rugged Canadian terrain.

War never happened and it was eventually deemed useless. But today it is blossoming as a recreational waterway.

21. Easter Island

Mark of Flying and Travel wrote about his experience at Rapa Nui National Park on Easter Island and it has been at the top of our list ever since. The Easter Island heads are filled with mystery and wonder. We were so close to Easter Island when we visited Santiago as there are direct flights twice weekly from there.

But, we learned that Easter Island needs to be booked well in advance these days. Visit are limited and they sell out quickly It’s okay though, next time. at these Mysterious Statues in the Pacific Island

We just need to get ourselves down to the far reaches of South America to transfer to this South Pacific Island containing the Moai statues. Want to learn more: Read more here Easter Island – Mysterious Statues in the Pacific Island

22. Alhambra, Spain

One of the most recent and best historic sites we’ve visited is the amazing Alhambra in Granada, Spain. Alhambra is not only the biggest tourist destination in Granada, but it’s also one in the most popular tourist attractions in the entire country.

Alhambra is known as the crown jewel of Islamic Spain and it is easy to understand why. Standing proud overlooking Granada with beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, it is easy to spend several hours enjoying the beauty of this massive complex. Read more at Things to do in Granada

23. Ayuthaya

Dave and I visited Ayuthaya in 2000 so we are due to go back! This historic city existed between the 14th and 18th century and was the capital of Siam. The Burmese army destroyed it in 1767 and it remained in ruin but it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991.

It is a significant historic site because, during its time, it was one of the largest cities in the world. A wonderful way to visit Ayuthaya is to take a boat tour down the Chao Phraya River from Bangkok. The Chao Phraya alone is must see historic place in Bangkok with canals and waterways leading through ancient parts of the city.

24. Terracotta Warriors

The Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an China are a mesmerizing archeological site. They have been meticulously rebuilt after only being rediscovered in the 20th century. The underground army was built 2200 years about by the first Emperor of a unified China, Emperor Qin Shi Huang of The Qin Dynasty.

It took 38 years and 700,000 people to build this underground monument. The craftsmen who built this masterpiece were killed to keep the location a secret. It worked because nobody knew where the entrance to the tomb containing  8000 Terracotta Warriors and horses leading bronze chariots were buried until it was discovered by a farmer in 1974.

25. Forbidden City

Another one of China’s best historical places is the Forbidden City in Beijing. Built in the 1400s during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City was a palace complext that housed the ruling Chinese Emperors and their households for 500 years.  It has a whopping 980 buildings and over 8000 rooms.

Commoners were not allowed in the city and many of the Forbidden City’s inhabitants were not allowed to leave. This complex is filled with history making it one of the most intriguing historical places on our list.

26. Whalers Bay – Antarctica

We had the opportunity to visit a few historical sites in Antarctica. Port Lockroy is a scientific base that has been in operation since 1944 and it is from here you can send a postcard from the 7th continent. However, it was the old whaling station on Deception Island that is etched in our memory. Whalers Bay on Deception Island is one of the most remote places in the world.

It has a dark past where whales were slaughtered nearly to the point of extinction. Today, there are remnants of whale bones strewn along the shore, there are old boiling vats and some abandoned buildings reminded us of the destruction that the human race can put upon this earth. Read more: 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica

27. Leaning Tower of Pisa

The final choice of our favorite historic place to visit is the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Construction of The Leaning Tower of Pisa began in 1173 and took nearly 200 years to complete. But the Pisa Tower was doomed from the start. Before they even finished construction it began to lean. For decades, engineers from around the world took a stab at fixing it to no avail. Read all about it here.

In 1989 the Tower of Pisa was finally closed to fix the problem once and for all. The Tower of Pisa is now saved and still leaning for generations to see for years to come. It is now safe and stable and just a short walk from the train station so it is easy to visit on a day trip from cities like Rome, Florence or Bologna.

So, these are our favorite historical places in the world plus a few of the most famous historical sites. We have been fortunate to have been to many more and will be adding to the list as we think of them. Or perhaps, we will do a part 2. So, let us know what your favourite historical places are in the world that we should add to the list. And tell us why in the comments below.

Read next:

Lake Charles is an amazing destination and a great alternative to visiting New Orleans with just as much energy, excitement, and adventure as Crescent City. If you are making your way to the Southern United States, make sure to visit Lake Charles or add it to your road trip itinerary. Here is our list of the top things to do when visiting Lake Charles.

Top Things To Do In Lake Charles, La

While many people only think of New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras, Lake Charles has its own. In addition to experiencing the festivities, my wife Bran & I made a Louisiana bucket list of the best things to do in Lake Charles. At the top of my list was to feast on an authentic Southwest Louisiana Crawfish Boil and at the top of Bran’s wish list was to see an alligator in its natural habitat. So we set off with our bucket lists in hand to explore the top attractions in Lake Charles, LA.

1. Explore Downtown Lake Charles

Downtown Lake Charles has so many attractions for visitors to enjoy. Besides the Charpentier Historic District, visitors can take in its beautiful Victorian architecture and visit The Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center. This historic building houses art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. Check the schedule to see what’s on display during your visit.

If you are looking for things to do in Lake Charles at night, the Rosa Hart Theatre offers live performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. It’s a great place to catch a show and experience some of the local cultures.

Downtown Lake Charles is also known for its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties like gumbo, po’boys, boudin, and crawfish étouffée at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Downtown Lake Charles is also home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Festival, the Louisiana Pirate Festival, and the Downtown at Sundown concert series.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Lakefront Promenade is a great place to walk or bike along the lakefront and take in the beautiful views. The promenade also features benches and picnic tables for those who want to stop and relax.

2. Take the Charpentier Historic District Tour

The Charpentier Historic District Tour is a great way to see the beautiful architecture of Lake Charles and get the historical significance of the buildings and homes. A.C. Bourdier, a lifetime resident, is the perfect guide and a perfect southern gentleman on this horse-drawn carriage ride with J and R Carriage through the ole’ south.

Make sure to have A.C. point out the haunted houses and to give you their backstory in the Charpentier Historic District. A.C. is the Chairman of the Landmarks Register for the Calcasieu Historical Preservation Society.

Traditionally throughout the south, the underside of porch roofs and awnings are painted pale blue. Originally, this was done so that haints or spirits would not be trapped and could pass on to the beyond.

However, a bonus side effect of having these structures resemble the sky in color is that spiders and birds would not nest under them. It’s like they are fooled by the blue paint into thinking that there is no roof or awning there.

3. Hit The Creole Nature Trail and Adventure Point

Nature lovers will enjoy this scenic drive along the Creole Nature Trail, which winds through the marshes, swamps, and beaches of Louisiana. The trail offers breathtaking views of the local wildlife and landscapes and can be accessed from Downtown Lake Charles. A good place to start is Adventure Point where you’ll immersive in Lousiana culture and enjoy interactive and hands-on experiences. This is a great way to appreciate the flora and fauna

There are many great photo opportunities as you traverse this scenic byway. The Creole Nature Trail is comprised of several wildlife refuges and is connected by many highways spanning 180 miles throughout Louisiana’s outback. The birdlife is so abundant and varied that I couldn’t help but fire off a few dozen pictures. I just wandered freely through the wildlife refuges, but there are bird-watching tours and even blinds set up for the more dedicated bird photographers.

To see the Creole Nature Trail properly, we suggest a tour. It is the best way to see the abundance of wildlife. Even though it was very cold (unusual) we were still lucky enough to see plenty of wildlife including an American alligator! Bran was over the moon! Bran had been hoping to see an alligator. Check!

I think that when we return to the Creole Nature Trail I will bring my fishing rod along with my camera. It’s not only a great destination for nature photographers it also has great fishing – two of my favorite things. For more information on the Creole Nature Trail visit the Lake Charles Website for details.

• Location: 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, la

4. The Imperial Calcasieu Museum

The Imperial Calcasieu Museum is a cultural center that is housed in the historic Central School building, which was constructed in 1912 and served as a school until 1979.

One of the main figures associated with the museum is Charles Sallier, who was an early settler of the Lake Charles area and a prominent businessman. Sallier was instrumental in the development of the region, and his legacy is celebrated in the museum’s permanent exhibition, which is named in his honor. The Charles Sallier exhibit tells the story of the early settlers of Southwest Louisiana, including the Native American tribes who lived in the area before European settlement.

The Imperial Calcasieu region consists of five parishes in Southwest Louisiana, Calcasieu, Cameron, Beauregard, Allen, and Jeff Davis.

• Located at: 204 W. Sallier Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana

5. Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu Museum

The Mardi Gras Museum is another popular Lake Charles attraction. Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras in Lake Charles through exhibits that include Mardi Gras costumes, floats, and other memorabilia from past parades.

We witnessed some extravagant costumes here and at The Royal Gala. Prior to the gala event, the backstage is bustling with Krewes getting ready to display the extravagant costumes that they’ve been diligently working on all year.

The Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu boasts the largest costume display in the world. Our tour guide Adley Cormier relayed to us the history of the festival with an endearing passion.

These costumes are spectacular, bursting with color and Ostrich feathers. At a cost of 10+ dollars per feather, the costumes can turn out to be quite pricey.

Right now the museum is closed as it searches for a new location with an estimated re-opening for Mardi Gras 2024.

6. Attend Mardi Gras

One of the most fun things to do in Lake Charles is to attend Mardi Gras. No visit post would be complete without mentioning the festive celebrations. It is the second largest Mardi Gras in Louisiana and not only does it have many of the same celebrations as the New Orleans festival, but it has other events that set it apart from New Orleans including the annual chicken run and a full-day dedicated to children. Check out more about New Orleans at A Tour of the New Orleans Garden District.

7. Festivals and Special Events

Don’t worry, if you don’t visit Lake Charles during Mardi Gras, there are still plenty of festivals throughout the year. and special events to attend. Lake Charles is the festival capital of Louisiana after hosting 75 festivals and events each year, so there is bound to be a celebration going on during your visit.

Some unique festivals and special events to check out are the Cajun French Music and Food Festival, The Black Heritage Festival, and the downtown Lake Charles Crawfish Festival. For a full list of festivals in Lake Charles la visit the city’s website.

8. Visit the USS Orleck Naval Museum

Out of all the Lake Charles museums, The USS Orleck Naval Museum is one of the more unique. This floating museum takes visitors on a tour of the USS Orleck DD 886 WWII destroyer. It was in service during WWII, Vietnam, and The Korean war. It has been fully restored and visitors can tour the ship to see what life for military soldiers. History buffs will love taking a tour of this ship to learn of its warring history. Check out details at their website  

• The USS Orleck Naval Museum is located at: 604 N. Enterprise Blvd., Lake Charles, LA

9. Sam Houston Jones State Park

Another outdoor attraction in Lake Charles, la is to enjoy the solitude of the Sam Houston Jones State Park. Named after the Texas folk here, Sam Houston Jones State Park is a good place for birders with 200 species of birds migrating and nesting in the area. There are numerous hiking trails and waterways to enjoy the great outdoors. There are alligators and even bobcats that reside in the park. It was here that Bran had her wish of seeing alligators in the wild.

• Location: 107 Sutherland Rd, Lake Charles, LA

10. Enjoy the Outdoors of Prien Lake Park

Prien Lake is a popular outdoor destination in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. You can enjoy its walking paths, go kayaking, have a picnic, or rent a paddle boat. There is some hopping at the Prien Lake Mall or you can try your hand at the Capri Casino.

The Prien Lake Park Golf Course offers lessons for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer it’s a fun afternoon outdoors.

If you are looking for things to do with the whole family, The Children’s Museum is a great place to take kids for a fun and educational experience. The museum features interactive exhibits that teach children about science, art, and history.

The Creole Nature Trail is a scenic drive that winds through the marshes, swamps, and beaches of Southwest Louisiana. Visitors can take in breathtaking views of the local wildlife and landscapes.

Attend a concert or event at the Lake Charles Civic Center: This venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, trade shows, and conventions.

Lake Area Adventures offers kayak rentals at Prien Lake Park where you can do full or half-day rentals on the water.

11. Enjoy the White Sand Beach North Beach

North Beach is a beautiful public white sandy beach located on the northern shore of Lake Charles. It is one of the few natural beaches in the state. Take a stroll along the Lake Charles boardwalk or you can enjoy kayak rentals and paddleboards or simply relax to take in the sun.

And another cool fact is that North Beach is part of the Lake Charles Historic District and has been designated as a Louisiana Historic Landmark. The beach has also been recognized for its efforts to preserve and protect the local environment.

12. Bord Du Lac Park (Millennium Park)

If you are looking for things to do in Lake Charles for families, the resorts really cater to the little ones with lazy rivers and indoor pools. But if you want to head outdoors, make your way to Millennium Park where there is an excellent playground created to entertain the kids. This lakeside park has a splash park and a pirate ship, trains and tunnels kids will let off a lot of steam playing here. They have even made sure that there is a rubberized surface to help keep everyone safe.

• Located at: 1100 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, Louisiana

13. Spend some time at Lake Charles Casinos

There are a few Lake Charles casinos to try your luck at. L’auberge Casino Resort is situated right on the lake, because, well the casino is actually a boat. Yes, I said a boat. It’s cleverly engineered to dock inside L’Auberge Hotel.

The L’Auberge Casino Resort itself is on land, but through the use of a lock-like structure, the casino is floated into the hotel and secured so well that we were shocked to find out we were on a floating boat inside of the hotel! This is done to satisfy state law. Years ago, in Louisiana, riverboats would be the only gambling option, but now through ingenious engineering patrons can leave the boat when they choose instead of waiting for the boat to dock.

We had an absolutely tremendous dining experience with the hotel restaurant Ember Grille & Wine Bar. Exceptional service, fine wines, delicious cocktails, and incredible cuisine!  If you want more slots and fun in Lake Charles, the Golden Nugget is located next door to the L’Auberge.

Those looking for a little excitement can try their luck at the Golden Nugget Casino, which offers a wide variety of gaming options, as well as dining and entertainment.

• Located at – 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles, Louisiana

14. Enjoy Homestyle Southern Cooking

One of the more unique things to do in Lake Charles is to sample its unique southern food. Jambalaya, gumbo, frog legs, gator, boudin balls, po’ boys, Cajun catfish, king cake, we had it all! And we washed it all down with great beer from a local brewery, Abita.

Some interesting food we sampled in Lake Charles was alligator and Boudin. Gator is kind of like a cross between chicken and calamari. Boudin would be akin to taking a spicy cabbage roll stuffing and balling it up and then deep-frying it. Delicious!

Visit the McNeese State University campus: This beautiful campus features a variety of attractions, including the Historic Burton Coliseum, the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum, and the Harold and Pearl Dripps School of Agricultural Sciences.

After eating all that I still had bigger fish to fry, or in this case boil. I’m talking about an authentic Crawfish boil. My curiosity of this local delicacy had my interest peaking.

Throughout Louisiana, there are many rice farms. These rice farms often double as swampish crawfish farms. Crawfish, crayfish, crawdads, mudbugs. Mudbugs indeed.

They get this nickname for the way they destroy people’s front lawns with their mud-pile homes.

15. Fine Dining in Lake Charles

While the crawfish, PO boys, gator, and gumbo might be on the menu, there are plenty of fine dining establishments in Lake Charles as well. Thanks to the chefs at the L’Auberge Casino Resort and Ember Grille & Wine Bar we ate like kings!

The selection of meals was reminiscent of a fine French Restaurant in Paris.

Mediterranean-Dusted Lamb Lollichops (love the name), roasted rabbit loin to truffled mac’n’cheese, a trio of delicious salads we couldn’t get enough of our meals.

A stand out was the seared foie gras w/savory stuffed French Toast topped with Bourbon Barrel aged maple syrup. However, the show stealer of our dining adventures in Lake Charles was the Ember Prime “Tomahawk”, a 40oz rib eye carved table side.

Finish your meals with Crème Brule, chocolate brownie a la mode, and a fruit medley with a sculptured pastry dish.

Check out more on Dining in Lake Charles

16. Drive-through a Daiquiri Drive-Through

Driving up to the take-out window and ordering two hurricane daiquiris to go IS the way to go while in Louisiana. I’m not suggesting anyone drink and drive, that’s illegal even there. However, there is something novel about getting an alcoholic drink to go…to a party where one can then enjoy it, and then take a cab home.

“Pour me something tall and strong;
Make it a Hurricane
Before I go insane.”

If you want to sample some genuine Louisiana spirits book a distillery tour to the award-winning Bayou Rum Distillery Louisiana Spirits. Located a few miles outside of Lake Charles, the Bayou Rum Distillery offer distillery tours to see how their top-rated spirits are made.

Where to Stay in Lake Charles

L’auberge Casino Resort – We stayed at this four-diamond hotel in Louisiana. With 70 Vegas-style gaming and 1600 slot machines, we were right in the heart of all the action. It has full amenities with a lazy river, indoor pool, championship golf course, and a full service Spa du Lac.

Golden Nugget – The Golden Nugget Lake Charles is another four-diamond resort in Louisiana that has a pool, lazy river, private beach, and marina on the ground of this casino resort with 77 game tables and 1600 slot machines.

Where Is Lake Charles

Lake Charles, Louisiana is located banks of Lake Charles, Prien Lake, and the Calcasieu River that feed into the gulf coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is the fifth largest city in Louisiana and is located 206 miles (331 kilometers) west of New Orleans, 127 Miles from Baton Rouge, and 59 miles from Beaumont Texas.

To get to Lake Charles we recommend renting a car or taking a road trip. You can check car rental prices at RentalCars.com There you have it, the best things to do in Lake Charles, Louisiana while you’re waiting for the next Mardi Gras Parade!

Lake Charles is an amazing destination and a great alternative to visiting New Orleans with just as much energy, excitement, and adventure as Crescent City. If you are making your way to the Southern United States, make sure to visit Lake Charles or add it to your road trip itinerary. Here is our list of the top things to do when visiting Lake Charles.

Top Things To Do In Lake Charles, La

While many people only think of New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras, Lake Charles has its own. In addition to experiencing the festivities, my wife Bran & I made a Louisiana bucket list of the best things to do in Lake Charles. At the top of my list was to feast on an authentic Southwest Louisiana Crawfish Boil and at the top of Bran’s wish list was to see an alligator in its natural habitat. So we set off with our bucket lists in hand to explore the top attractions in Lake Charles, LA.

1. Explore Downtown Lake Charles

Downtown Lake Charles has so many attractions for visitors to enjoy. Besides the Charpentier Historic District, visitors can take in its beautiful Victorian architecture and visit The Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center. This historic building houses art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. Check the schedule to see what’s on display during your visit.

If you are looking for things to do in Lake Charles at night, the Rosa Hart Theatre offers live performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. It’s a great place to catch a show and experience some of the local cultures.

Downtown Lake Charles is also known for its delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine. Visitors can sample local specialties like gumbo, po’boys, boudin, and crawfish étouffée at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Downtown Lake Charles is also home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Festival, the Louisiana Pirate Festival, and the Downtown at Sundown concert series.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Lakefront Promenade is a great place to walk or bike along the lakefront and take in the beautiful views. The promenade also features benches and picnic tables for those who want to stop and relax.

2. Take the Charpentier Historic District Tour

The Charpentier Historic District Tour is a great way to see the beautiful architecture of Lake Charles and get the historical significance of the buildings and homes. A.C. Bourdier, a lifetime resident, is the perfect guide and a perfect southern gentleman on this horse-drawn carriage ride with J and R Carriage through the ole’ south.

Make sure to have A.C. point out the haunted houses and to give you their backstory in the Charpentier Historic District. A.C. is the Chairman of the Landmarks Register for the Calcasieu Historical Preservation Society.

Traditionally throughout the south, the underside of porch roofs and awnings are painted pale blue. Originally, this was done so that haints or spirits would not be trapped and could pass on to the beyond.

However, a bonus side effect of having these structures resemble the sky in color is that spiders and birds would not nest under them. It’s like they are fooled by the blue paint into thinking that there is no roof or awning there.

3. Hit The Creole Nature Trail and Adventure Point

Nature lovers will enjoy this scenic drive along the Creole Nature Trail, which winds through the marshes, swamps, and beaches of Louisiana. The trail offers breathtaking views of the local wildlife and landscapes and can be accessed from Downtown Lake Charles. A good place to start is Adventure Point where you’ll immersive in Lousiana culture and enjoy interactive and hands-on experiences. This is a great way to appreciate the flora and fauna

There are many great photo opportunities as you traverse this scenic byway. The Creole Nature Trail is comprised of several wildlife refuges and is connected by many highways spanning 180 miles throughout Louisiana’s outback. The birdlife is so abundant and varied that I couldn’t help but fire off a few dozen pictures. I just wandered freely through the wildlife refuges, but there are bird-watching tours and even blinds set up for the more dedicated bird photographers.

To see the Creole Nature Trail properly, we suggest a tour. It is the best way to see the abundance of wildlife. Even though it was very cold (unusual) we were still lucky enough to see plenty of wildlife including an American alligator! Bran was over the moon! Bran had been hoping to see an alligator. Check!

I think that when we return to the Creole Nature Trail I will bring my fishing rod along with my camera. It’s not only a great destination for nature photographers it also has great fishing – two of my favorite things. For more information on the Creole Nature Trail visit the Lake Charles Website for details.

• Location: 1205 N. Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, la

4. The Imperial Calcasieu Museum

The Imperial Calcasieu Museum is a cultural center that is housed in the historic Central School building, which was constructed in 1912 and served as a school until 1979.

One of the main figures associated with the museum is Charles Sallier, who was an early settler of the Lake Charles area and a prominent businessman. Sallier was instrumental in the development of the region, and his legacy is celebrated in the museum’s permanent exhibition, which is named in his honor. The Charles Sallier exhibit tells the story of the early settlers of Southwest Louisiana, including the Native American tribes who lived in the area before European settlement.

The Imperial Calcasieu region consists of five parishes in Southwest Louisiana, Calcasieu, Cameron, Beauregard, Allen, and Jeff Davis.

• Located at: 204 W. Sallier Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana

5. Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu Museum

The Mardi Gras Museum is another popular Lake Charles attraction. Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras in Lake Charles through exhibits that include Mardi Gras costumes, floats, and other memorabilia from past parades.

We witnessed some extravagant costumes here and at The Royal Gala. Prior to the gala event, the backstage is bustling with Krewes getting ready to display the extravagant costumes that they’ve been diligently working on all year.

The Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu boasts the largest costume display in the world. Our tour guide Adley Cormier relayed to us the history of the festival with an endearing passion.

These costumes are spectacular, bursting with color and Ostrich feathers. At a cost of 10+ dollars per feather, the costumes can turn out to be quite pricey.

Right now the museum is closed as it searches for a new location with an estimated re-opening for Mardi Gras 2024.

6. Attend Mardi Gras

One of the most fun things to do in Lake Charles is to attend Mardi Gras. No visit post would be complete without mentioning the festive celebrations. It is the second largest Mardi Gras in Louisiana and not only does it have many of the same celebrations as the New Orleans festival, but it has other events that set it apart from New Orleans including the annual chicken run and a full-day dedicated to children. Check out more about New Orleans at A Tour of the New Orleans Garden District.

7. Festivals and Special Events

Don’t worry, if you don’t visit Lake Charles during Mardi Gras, there are still plenty of festivals throughout the year. and special events to attend. Lake Charles is the festival capital of Louisiana after hosting 75 festivals and events each year, so there is bound to be a celebration going on during your visit.

Some unique festivals and special events to check out are the Cajun French Music and Food Festival, The Black Heritage Festival, and the downtown Lake Charles Crawfish Festival. For a full list of festivals in Lake Charles la visit the city’s website.

8. Visit the USS Orleck Naval Museum

Out of all the Lake Charles museums, The USS Orleck Naval Museum is one of the more unique. This floating museum takes visitors on a tour of the USS Orleck DD 886 WWII destroyer. It was in service during WWII, Vietnam, and The Korean war. It has been fully restored and visitors can tour the ship to see what life for military soldiers. History buffs will love taking a tour of this ship to learn of its warring history. Check out details at their website  

• The USS Orleck Naval Museum is located at: 604 N. Enterprise Blvd., Lake Charles, LA

9. Sam Houston Jones State Park

Another outdoor attraction in Lake Charles, la is to enjoy the solitude of the Sam Houston Jones State Park. Named after the Texas folk here, Sam Houston Jones State Park is a good place for birders with 200 species of birds migrating and nesting in the area. There are numerous hiking trails and waterways to enjoy the great outdoors. There are alligators and even bobcats that reside in the park. It was here that Bran had her wish of seeing alligators in the wild.

• Location: 107 Sutherland Rd, Lake Charles, LA

10. Enjoy the Outdoors of Prien Lake Park

Prien Lake is a popular outdoor destination in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. You can enjoy its walking paths, go kayaking, have a picnic, or rent a paddle boat. There is some hopping at the Prien Lake Mall or you can try your hand at the Capri Casino.

The Prien Lake Park Golf Course offers lessons for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer it’s a fun afternoon outdoors.

If you are looking for things to do with the whole family, The Children’s Museum is a great place to take kids for a fun and educational experience. The museum features interactive exhibits that teach children about science, art, and history.

The Creole Nature Trail is a scenic drive that winds through the marshes, swamps, and beaches of Southwest Louisiana. Visitors can take in breathtaking views of the local wildlife and landscapes.

Attend a concert or event at the Lake Charles Civic Center: This venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, trade shows, and conventions.

Lake Area Adventures offers kayak rentals at Prien Lake Park where you can do full or half-day rentals on the water.

11. Enjoy the White Sand Beach North Beach

North Beach is a beautiful public white sandy beach located on the northern shore of Lake Charles. It is one of the few natural beaches in the state. Take a stroll along the Lake Charles boardwalk or you can enjoy kayak rentals and paddleboards or simply relax to take in the sun.

And another cool fact is that North Beach is part of the Lake Charles Historic District and has been designated as a Louisiana Historic Landmark. The beach has also been recognized for its efforts to preserve and protect the local environment.

12. Bord Du Lac Park (Millennium Park)

If you are looking for things to do in Lake Charles for families, the resorts really cater to the little ones with lazy rivers and indoor pools. But if you want to head outdoors, make your way to Millennium Park where there is an excellent playground created to entertain the kids. This lakeside park has a splash park and a pirate ship, trains and tunnels kids will let off a lot of steam playing here. They have even made sure that there is a rubberized surface to help keep everyone safe.

• Located at: 1100 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, Louisiana

13. Spend some time at Lake Charles Casinos

There are a few Lake Charles casinos to try your luck at. L’auberge Casino Resort is situated right on the lake, because, well the casino is actually a boat. Yes, I said a boat. It’s cleverly engineered to dock inside L’Auberge Hotel.

The L’Auberge Casino Resort itself is on land, but through the use of a lock-like structure, the casino is floated into the hotel and secured so well that we were shocked to find out we were on a floating boat inside of the hotel! This is done to satisfy state law. Years ago, in Louisiana, riverboats would be the only gambling option, but now through ingenious engineering patrons can leave the boat when they choose instead of waiting for the boat to dock.

We had an absolutely tremendous dining experience with the hotel restaurant Ember Grille & Wine Bar. Exceptional service, fine wines, delicious cocktails, and incredible cuisine!  If you want more slots and fun in Lake Charles, the Golden Nugget is located next door to the L’Auberge.

Those looking for a little excitement can try their luck at the Golden Nugget Casino, which offers a wide variety of gaming options, as well as dining and entertainment.

• Located at – 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles, Louisiana

14. Enjoy Homestyle Southern Cooking

One of the more unique things to do in Lake Charles is to sample its unique southern food. Jambalaya, gumbo, frog legs, gator, boudin balls, po’ boys, Cajun catfish, king cake, we had it all! And we washed it all down with great beer from a local brewery, Abita.

Some interesting food we sampled in Lake Charles was alligator and Boudin. Gator is kind of like a cross between chicken and calamari. Boudin would be akin to taking a spicy cabbage roll stuffing and balling it up and then deep-frying it. Delicious!

Visit the McNeese State University campus: This beautiful campus features a variety of attractions, including the Historic Burton Coliseum, the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum, and the Harold and Pearl Dripps School of Agricultural Sciences.

After eating all that I still had bigger fish to fry, or in this case boil. I’m talking about an authentic Crawfish boil. My curiosity of this local delicacy had my interest peaking.

Throughout Louisiana, there are many rice farms. These rice farms often double as swampish crawfish farms. Crawfish, crayfish, crawdads, mudbugs. Mudbugs indeed.

They get this nickname for the way they destroy people’s front lawns with their mud-pile homes.

15. Fine Dining in Lake Charles

While the crawfish, PO boys, gator, and gumbo might be on the menu, there are plenty of fine dining establishments in Lake Charles as well. Thanks to the chefs at the L’Auberge Casino Resort and Ember Grille & Wine Bar we ate like kings!

The selection of meals was reminiscent of a fine French Restaurant in Paris.

Mediterranean-Dusted Lamb Lollichops (love the name), roasted rabbit loin to truffled mac’n’cheese, a trio of delicious salads we couldn’t get enough of our meals.

A stand out was the seared foie gras w/savory stuffed French Toast topped with Bourbon Barrel aged maple syrup. However, the show stealer of our dining adventures in Lake Charles was the Ember Prime “Tomahawk”, a 40oz rib eye carved table side.

Finish your meals with Crème Brule, chocolate brownie a la mode, and a fruit medley with a sculptured pastry dish.

Check out more on Dining in Lake Charles

16. Drive-through a Daiquiri Drive-Through

Driving up to the take-out window and ordering two hurricane daiquiris to go IS the way to go while in Louisiana. I’m not suggesting anyone drink and drive, that’s illegal even there. However, there is something novel about getting an alcoholic drink to go…to a party where one can then enjoy it, and then take a cab home.

“Pour me something tall and strong;
Make it a Hurricane
Before I go insane.”

If you want to sample some genuine Louisiana spirits book a distillery tour to the award-winning Bayou Rum Distillery Louisiana Spirits. Located a few miles outside of Lake Charles, the Bayou Rum Distillery offer distillery tours to see how their top-rated spirits are made.

Where to Stay in Lake Charles

L’auberge Casino Resort – We stayed at this four-diamond hotel in Louisiana. With 70 Vegas-style gaming and 1600 slot machines, we were right in the heart of all the action. It has full amenities with a lazy river, indoor pool, championship golf course, and a full service Spa du Lac.

Golden Nugget – The Golden Nugget Lake Charles is another four-diamond resort in Louisiana that has a pool, lazy river, private beach, and marina on the ground of this casino resort with 77 game tables and 1600 slot machines.

Where Is Lake Charles

Lake Charles, Louisiana is located banks of Lake Charles, Prien Lake, and the Calcasieu River that feed into the gulf coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is the fifth largest city in Louisiana and is located 206 miles (331 kilometers) west of New Orleans, 127 Miles from Baton Rouge, and 59 miles from Beaumont Texas.

To get to Lake Charles we recommend renting a car or taking a road trip. You can check car rental prices at RentalCars.com There you have it, the best things to do in Lake Charles, Louisiana while you’re waiting for the next Mardi Gras Parade!

Alaska, the final frontier of adventure travel is at the top of many bucket lists. The largest state in the United States is a destination that offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rugged wilderness of the Arctic. Alaska is a place that captures the imagination and the spirit of adventure. From the bustling city of Anchorage to the remote wilderness of Denali National Park, there is no shortage of places to visit in Alaska. And we’ve seen most of them.

Top Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska’s landscape is diverse, ranging from snow-capped mountains to glaciers, fjords, and an expanse of forests. We fell in love with Alaska the first time we visited in 2011 and when taking my parents on a Holland American Cruise last summer, we were thrilled to be able to share its beauty and introduce them.

When choosing your cruise or land tour through Alaska, it can be difficult to decide where to stop or what to see, so we’re rounding up some of the best places to visit in Alaska that we’ve been to help you plan your trip.

Denali National Park and Preserve

There are 17 national parks in Alaska, and Denali National Park and Preserve is certainly the most popular of them all. It cannot be seen from a cruise and needs to be added as a land tour or you can travel to it independently. This vast wilderness area is located in central Alaska and is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali (Mount McKinley) which stands at 6190 meters (20,310 feet),

One of the first things visitors usually do at this national park is to hop aboard converted school buses to enjoy a guided scenic tour in search of grizzly bears, moose, wolves, caribou, and Dall sheep.

We took this ATV adventure which was a hoot riding along trails. The adventure includes 360° overlook views of the Alaska Range, Otto Lake, and the Healy Valley.

One of the most popular activities in Denali National Park is hiking. The park has a network of hiking trails that range from short walks to multi-day backpacking trips. It has 6 campgrounds which do get busy in the summer months so it is a good idea to make a reservation. Be sure to check in with the Denali Visitor Center before venturing out into the park.

McKinley Chalet Resort

We stayed at McKinley Chalet Resort which was awesome. Located less than 2 miles from the national park entrance, we felt right in the middle of the wilderness. The newly renovated suites in our wing were chic and modern with that rustic mountain lodge feel.

Our balcony looked over the mountains. The property is large with different areas detached from the main lodge. We enjoyed a fun evening here watching The Music of Denali as we our servers performed on stage while feeding us fresh Alaskan salmon, ribs, and mashed potatoes, family style.

Denali – Mt. McKinely

If you are lucky while visiting the park, you may be able to spy the majestic mountain, Denali. It is usually overcast, but we’ve been lucky enough to see it from our land tour and by a scenic flight.

A scenic flight was an absolutely gorgeous way to experience North America’s tallest peak. Seeing the glaciers and ice fields from above was an intimidating sight. At times it felt as if we could reach out and touch it. Book this scenic flight over Denali where you will fly close to the summit of Denali, enjoy views of the Alaska Range and witness the Tokositna and Ruth Glaciers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Avid climbers can attempt to conquer Denali. But unlike Mount Kilimanjaro, it requires serious climbing experience and winter camping. If you are new to mountaineering, it is better to stick to taking in scenic views.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most unique places in the world. It is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so with history packed in every single molecule of its ancient glacier history. 

The Grand Pacific Glacier was more than 4000 feet thick just two centuries ago but has shrunk significantly. Today the glacier has been divided into many small ones and many of them are calving to this day. That means at any moment a giant block of ice could fall off of them, which also means many of the glaciers have to be enjoyed from a distance.

The park is made up of more than 3 million acres and can only be reached by ship or float plane. Alaska’s inside passage in Glacier Bay takes you from forest to ice and is breathtaking to experience as you float the fjord. When you’re in the inside passage it is almost as though nothing else exists.

During our Holland America Cruise, we circled the bay enjoying panoramic views of the glaciers from the front deck. By having a balcony suite, we then retired to our room to enjoy the views with a glass of champagne as we relaxed in privacy taking in this wonder of the world.

Ketchikan

One of our favorite places to visit in Alaska is Ketchikan. The Salmon Capital of the world and Alaska’s first city, this is a town where most cruises stop either first or last. Located on the Inside Passage in southern Alaska, this frontier town was once a thriving settlement for the gold rush and as you walk along the boardwalks of historic Creek Street, you can see historic buildings from the red light district dating back to the 1800s.

Ketchikan is also one of the best places to see whales in Alaska and there are plenty of boat tours that will take you onto the water. We took a zodiac tour in Ketchikan where we explored the coast, spied bald eagles and whales from our self-drive boats.

Ketchikan also has the world’s largest collection of standing Native American totem poles. Make sure to look up to see them all. If you want to delve into Indigenous culture, visit the Totem Heritage Center and learn about the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Peoples.

You can also see more Totem poles at the Saxam Village in Ketchikan and we saw Totem Bight State Historic Park on another cruise in Alaska. Located just outside of Ketchikan, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary

Ketchikan is also home to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. It covers 40 acres of protected land and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and salmon.

We took a float plane out to Neets Bay to watch bears feast on spawning salmon as they fattened up for winter hibernation. This was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. Make sure to book it early as these excursions fill up quickly. If you want to see brown bears feeding on salmon instead, the place to do that is at Katmai National Park and Preserve.

Misty Fjords National Monument

One of the star attractions is Misty Fjords National Monument which is located just 22 miles east of Ketchikan. It is made up of sheer rock walls that reach 3000 feet straight out of the ocean. Take a scenic flight here where you’ll witness steep sea cliffs, steep fjords, and rainforests.

Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier

Many cruise ships also start and finish their journeys in Juneau, Alaska. I know we have! Named after Joe Juneau, a French-Canadian miner, and prospector Juneau is one of the more happening towns in Alaska. One of its main tourist attractions is the enormous Mendenhall Glacier located on the Juneau Ice field.

Juneau is a place in Alaska that requires at least a couple of days to explore. The town itself has a fun old-west vibe complete with saloons, boardwalks, and plenty of attractions. It’s also one of the premier places in the world to spot bald eagles with them being so plentiful there is a beach actually called Bald Eagle Beach. Read more about all the 28 Amazing Things to do in Juneau, Alaska

Mendenhall Ice Caves

The Mendenhall ice caves are one of the coolest things to see in Juneau. This natural attraction will make you feel as though you have been transported to a planet of ice and glass. The Mendenhall ice caves are usually accessible between July and September.

You can take a tour to see the Mendenhall Glacier and enjoy the hiking trails around the lake to see its different viewpoint.

• Book this highly-rated Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves Tour. For the adventure of a lifetime, paddle the Mendenhall Lake to the Glacier where you’ll get to explore the glacier up close and personal.
• Or you can join a canoe trip to the glacier where you’ll search for wildlife, paddle around ice flows and finally step foot on the glacier.

Tongass National Forest

It’s hard to believe that Alaska has a rainforest but Tongass National Forest is the largest functioning temperate rainforest on Earth. The size of Tongass is mind-blowing at more than 16 million acres of land. From both Ketchikan and Juneau, you can visit Tongass National Forest.

In the forest, you can enjoy its hiking trails and if you’re in Juneau, you can take a mere 15-minute drive to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center which is located within the forest. We took a beautiful guided hike to the glacier where we watched salmon spawn and learned about its flora and fauna. Besides Mendenhall, there are numerous other glaciers and hiking trails spread across the park. 

The park is home to all sorts of wildlife like wolves, black bears, and deer. You can even spot humpback whales and sea lions in the nearby waters. Tongass National Park has the comforts of the city within it as well as the comforts of the wild throughout.  

Fairbanks

The very first place we ever visited in Alaska was Fairbanks, Alaska and this town is awesome. When visiting Alaska in the summer it is truly the land of the Midnight Sun. There are so many things to do in Fairbanks from learning about Native American Culture and exploring the Chena River to relaxing in the Chena Hot Springs.

One of the more interesting places to visit is the Yukon Quest Alaska Headquarters. This is the start of the Yukon Quest dog sled race where you can learn about the famous dog mushers and teams who have taken part over the years. Including our friend Hank McCready who ran the prettiest team in Alaska. Another stop is the fountainhead antique auto museum where vintage cars are on display. It is consistently ranked as one of the best auto museums in the world.

Anchorage

A visit to Alaska wouldn’t be complete without seeing Anchorage. It is the largest city in Alaska and an international hub with access to Alaska’s interior and coast. It is here that you can hop on the Alaska Railroad to explore the great frontier.

Anchorage was the start of our cruise. After disembarking from the railway, we enjoyed two nights in downtown Anchorage. With cafés and restaurants, it has all the amenities of a big city. A highlight to visit is the ultra-modern Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center and The Alaska Native Heritage Center exploring the life and culture of Alaska’s indigenous people.

Skagway

Skagway is a bustling town where nearly every ship stops. It can be overwhelming spending just a day in Skagway. This old wild west town is filled with energy. In town, you can visit the Klondike Visitor’s Center to learn all about the Gold Rush that attracted people to this part of the world.

Take a step back in time and visit the Skagway National Historic District. It is located in the town of Skagway and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park has managed to ensure that ancient buildings from the Gold Rush days are still intact. Just walking through Skagway downtown will make you feel like you yourself have traveled back in time to when searching for gold and grabbing a pint after was all in a day’s work.   

White Pass Railway and Yukon Route Railroad

The vintage locomotive takes you along the Chilcoot Trail where prospectors risked their lives in search of gold. If you are walking around town, make your way to Pullen Creek Stream Walk to see the salmon run.

We took the best of all of Skagway by taking a helicopter flight over the glaciers out to the national forest in search of wildlife before hopping on the historic White Pass and Yukon Railroad. We have done the railroad tour on its own, but highly recommend the flight, hike and railway tour instead. You only need to ride the railway one way and this gave us the best of all worlds.

Dalton Highway

If you want to go even more remote, continue on from Fairbanks to Deadhorse along the Dalton Highway near the Prudhoe Bay Oil fields and the Arctic Ocean. We haven’t done this drive, but we have been up to the Arctic Ocean in the neighboring Northwest Territories in Canada and the scenery here is truly magnificent.

The Dalton Highway is considered one of the most isolated roads in the United States. It crossed the Arctic Circle and we did this on the similar Dempster Highway. it is the coolest thing to drive right across the Arctic Circle. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Enjoy reading our 15 Great Road Trips in America

Seward

Seward is a small town located on the Kenai Peninsula and offers many activities for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of things you can do in Seward including boat tours to Kenai Fjords National Park, or the Alaska SeaLife Center which is a great place to learn about marine life in Alaska and see sea lions, puffins, and other animals up close.

The surrounding mountains have plenty of hiking trails including the Harding Icefield Trail and the Exit Glacier Trail.

Alaska Highway

If you want to try a truly authentic experience, make sure to drive the Alaska Highway from Dawson’s Creek in British Columbia. This epic road trip crosses through southeast Alaska letting you see a different side of the sate. We made a similar journey along the Dempster Highway in the Yukon and let me tell you, there is nothing like it on Earth.

The Alaska Highway is a 1400-mile trip that ends in Fairbanks, Alaska. Along the drive, you’ll encounter glaciers and mountains and grizzly bears, and more and it will definitely be a trip you won’t forget. Of course, you don’t have to take the highway, you can simply take a plane and land yourself in one of Alaska’s big cities.

Kenai Fjords National Park

The Kenai Fjords National Park in the Kenai Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Alaska with glaciers, an icefield, and bears and seals lolling about. The best way to see this remote destination is to get out on a cruise where you can get out on kayaks to explore the fjords.

Make sure to visit the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Centre in Seward before you head out to learn about trail conditions and the Kenai Peninsula before you head into the park. And don’t miss seeing Exit Glacier located just 10 minutes from Seward, it is one of Alaska’s most accessible roadside glaciers.

Kenai Fjords National Park was a national monument and then became a National park designed to protect the misty fjords, rainforest, and wildlife that make up the area. Today, the Kenai Peninsula is a beloved part of the local Anchorage community as it’s just a two-hour drive outside of the city. 

Wrangell Elias National Park

It’s larger than Yellowstone National Park, in fact, it’s larger than all North American national parks, Wrangell St. Elias National Park is America’s largest national park at a whopping 13.2 million acres. It’s a national treasure that few people get to see. Check out America’s first national park: Best things to do in Yellowstone NP.

The park is full of volcanoes and glaciers and the unique landscape attracts all sorts of wildlife like mountain goats and brown bears (same as grizzly bears) Wrangell St Elias National Park is part tundra and temperate rainforest. It is also home to moose, Dall sheep, bison, goats, and caribou.

One of the most interesting things you might see is ice worms. From the name, you’d think they should be see-through or white, but ice worms are actually black and you can see them through frozen surfaces. If you’re a bird watcher, you’ll love the Copper River Basin Area which is part of the migratory route of numerous bird species. Additionally, you’ll likely see bald eagles, swans, ravens, and owls too. 

Northern Lights

While summertime in Alaska gives visitors the chance to experience the midnight sun with nearly 24 hours of daylight, when the cooler temperatures arrive you can make a trip to Alaska to see the Northern Lights.

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska is in winter or late autumn and early spring. Light pollution will be your enemy so if you want to get the real Aurora experience, the best places to visit will be outside of Alaska’s big cities. You can ask the hotel that you’re staying at to wake you when the lights are out as quite a number of hotels in Alaska offer this service.

To view the Aurora Borealis stay at the Northern Sky Lodge in Fairbanks. The lodge is nestled among 21 acres, only 30 minutes from Fairbanks International Airport and 90 minutes from Denali National Park. It makes for a great base to explore the interior of Alaska.

Alaska Native Heritage Center

To truly appreciate the Alaskan climate and lifestyle it is definitely a good idea to learn about the indigenous history of the state. Your visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center will give you a glimpse into the lives of 11 Alaska cultures including the Haida and Tsimshian First Nations whose territory goes right into Canada and down into British Columbia.

You will get to watch traditional dancing, meet Indigenous artists, and even visit dwellings that give you a chance to experience how the Indigenous people lived in the winter in Alaska before there was electricity.

Iditarod National Historic Trail

The historic Iditarod Trail is best known these days for the Iditarod Dog Sledding Race but prior to the race, it was a route used by Native Americans prior to the introduction of other vehicles.

This trail took folks 50 miles north of Seward all the way to Nome. They weren’t just going for a leisurely mush however, these folks carried heavy supplies to remote communities. Dog sleds played an important part in Native transportation and Europeans that came after also adopted this efficient transportation method in the harsh northern climate.

These days you can make your own memories on the trail by walking it or using a tour operator that will take you on a traditional dog sled on the trail. The Iditarod Dog Sledd Race takes place in March and attracts a lot of attention. If you happen to be there during that time it is definitely something you shouldn’t miss.

Alaska Railroad

If you’re a bit of a romantic then the idea of taking a railroad across the wilderness will get you excited. The Alaska Railroad was established in 1903 and still runs today. It traverses almost 500 miles from Seward up to Fairbanks with stops along the way.

If you want a comfortable visit while checking out the Alaskan wilderness, you should book a seat on the Alaska Railroad. The ticket price will vary based on how far you travel and which cabin you decide to book. Additionally, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees on your trip while enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, Alaska glaciers, rivers and mountains.

Prince William Sound

It is truly a stunning sight to see so many salmon all in one place. If you’re looking for a fun day trip then look no further than Prince William Sound.

The Sound is located on the south end of Alaska with incredible scenery and is one of the prettiest places you’ll visit. You can take a boat tour out to visit the sound and also enjoy a delicious meal on the water. The Sound is surrounded by glaciers and the biggest tidewater glacier is the Columbia Glacier.

You’ll feel what a goldfish feels like as the surroundings seem bigger than life. There is also a lot of wildlife in the area so keep your camera handy for epic pics you can look at over and over again. This might not be one of the most well-known Alaska destinations, but you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring scene if you decide to be one of the few that visit.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

If you want to guarantee to view Alaska’s wildlife then you should check out the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The center aims to protect and preserve the wildlife of Alaska through education and research.

The center is located off the Seward Highway near the Portage Valley Glacier on Turnagain Arm. It is 200-acres of pure wonder as you get a chance to see bison, coyotes, bears, and other wildlife up close. The conservation center is sectioned off into areas for different wildlife. You can drive through, park your car and then take a walkthrough.

Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge

First established to protect the great brown bears that live on Kodiak Island, today the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge protects a whole lot more. Sitting close to 2,000,000 acres the refuge encompasses Ben Island and parts of Kodiak Island, Uganik Island, the Red Peaks, and Afognak Island. 

It is full of rivers and streams and is a nesting ground for several hundred species of birds including the Bald Eagle. Today the mission of the refuge is not only just protect the brown bears, but also to conserve all wildlife, sea lions, and fish populations in the area.

It is a big breeding ground for five species of salmon that also feed the hundreds of birds that live on the island. This is hands down one of the best places to visit in Alaska. The area is only accessible by floatplane or boat so if you want to visit, you definitely should plan ahead. 

Bonus Alaska Adventure

If you are looking to go off the beaten path, you may want to book a trip to the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. It is located in northern Alaska, high above the Arctic Circle. It is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the United States.

The park covers 8.4 million acres and includes both the Brooks Range mountains and the Arctic tundra. There are no roads or trails in the park, and visitors must be self-sufficient and prepared for the challenging conditions of the Arctic wilderness.

Access to the park is limited to small planes and helicopters, and visitors must obtain permits before entering the park. Despite its remoteness, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is a popular destination for backpackers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who are drawn to the pristine wilderness and stunning landscapes of the Arctic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prettiest places in Alaska?

If you visit any of the national parks in Alaska, you will be assured of finding a pretty place. Nothing really beats Glacier Bay National Park but Katmai National Park is one of the prettiest places around. Katmai National Park and Preserve is also one of the best places to see brown bears in the wild. Many people book this excursion at Brooks Camp.

What should you avoid in Alaska?

If you are not a seasoned hiker or climber, it’s best to stay away from the glaciers and just view them from afar or hire a guide or tour to see them with a professional. Additionally, it is best to stay off unmarked trails unless you are very experienced, and don’t venture to the backcountry unless you have experience.

What is the best way to see Alaska in 10 days?

The best way to see Alaska in 10 days is to take a cruise ship down or head to the capital city of Juneau and make your way up from there.

And these are the best places to visit in Alaska. Have you been to Alaska? Alaska is one of our favourite travel destinations on Earth and we look forward to going back soon. What did we miss and where should we go next?

The perfect Rome itinerary, does it exist? And can you squeeze the perfect Rome itinerary into just three days? It is no secret that Rome is full of amazing things to do. You could easily spend a month in Rome’s city center and still be surprised by new Rome attractions each day. Rome has the nickname the ‘eternal city’. We’ll let you decide whether that stands for eternal entertainment or centuries of history.

Either way, the good news is that there is an ultimate three-day itinerary that we’ve tried and tested. This guide will cover the best itinerary if you have three days to visit Rome.

The Ultimate 3 Days in Rome Itinerary

Three days in Rome is just enough time to appreciate the best attractions in the city. We’ll divide this itinerary into one theme per day: Ancient Rome, Modern Rome, and Vatican City. There is a lot to cover, so let’s dive straight in.

Save hassles at the airport by booking an airport transfer. This highly-rated airport transfer starts at $ 80 USD for up to 3 people. A driver will be waiting upon arrival with your name and will take you from Fiumicino Airport or Ciampino Airport to your hotel in the city center in style. Book your transfer or search for other options here.

Day 1 in Rome – Ancient Rome

Rome’s historic center is home to plenty of traces of the ancient Romans. Learning about Roman history while exploring Rome is one of the city’s highlights. With this ‘3 days in Rome’ itinerary, your first day will be dedicated to ancient history. This day will be packed with exciting information, from ancient ruins to fascinating stories about the Romans.

Rome’s ancient Roman attractions include a selection of public attractions that offer free entry. In our guide here, you can check out more free (or very cheap) things to do in Rome. There are also major attractions like the Colosseum that are a little more expensive.

You should budget accordingly for today. It is worth noting that while the attractions might be ancient, it pays to be tech-savvy and book tickets online in advance. You can choose to wait in lines, but it wastes hours – not something you should do when you only have three hours.

A good way to see Rome’s top attractions with ease is to bundle your attractions. The Best of Rome pass is valid for 3 days in Rome and gives access to Rome’s top attractions. Gain access to the Vatican Museums, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine HillAdmire St. Peter’s Church. It included unlimited public transit on the metro, tram, and bus. Reserved entries at Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum. Plus an audio guide for St. Peter’s Basilica and reserved entry to the Vatican and Sistine Chapel.

Rome Itinerary Day 1

Unless you’d like some photographic inspiration about ‘visiting’ ancient Rome, let’s hit the ground running. Enjoy your first day in Rome.

Morning: Trevi Fountain

• Opening Times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Fountain and Underground Tour where you’ll visit the Trevi Fountain and go 9 meters (30 feet) underground to see the ruins of the ancient aqueduct.

The Trevi Fountain is set in the Piazza di Trevi and is easily the most famed fountain in Rome. While built in the 18th century, the Baroque feature is built on the terminal of the Acqua Vergine – an aqueduct initially developed in 19 BC by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa. The fountain also depicts ancient Roman gods, with the god of water, Oceanus, and Abundance and Salubrity.

It is a beautiful piece of architecture and has some real historical significance. You will have seen pictures of the fountain before, and its white statues and milk-blue waters adorn the front of many postcards.

The Trevi Fountain is easily a must-visit for your Rome itinerary. But why visit first thing in the morning? In a word, crowds. The Trevi Fountain is so crowded by midday that you’ll be lucky to even get close enough to throw in a lucky coin. The earlier you can get here, the better. Aim to get here before 8 am, and perhaps treat yourself to a takeout coffee on your way here.

Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiora

• 21-minute walk from Trevi Fountain
• Opening Times: 7 am – 6:45 pm
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: This 1-hour Guided tour takes you through one of Rome’s four patriarchal basilicas with an expert guide.

Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiora is one of Rome’s prettiest Catholic churches. It is the city’s first church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is widely agreed to come second only to St Peter’s Basilica (more on that later). The exterior is a picture of extravagance.

Inside, you’ll find mosaics and marble features with gold decorations built from the first gold that Columbus ever shipped back from America. If you are interested in architecture, religious history, or Catholicism specifically, the Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiora is a fascinating spot. It also has an adjoining museum.

The Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiora is free to enter and is a great budget-friendly addition to your ‘three days in Rome itinerary’. It should be nice and quiet first thing in the morning, although be mindful of service times and ensure that you are covered up and respect protocols. It is still a functioning church. For an extra special experience, you can attend a service if you wish.

Colosseum and Roman Forum

• A 17-minute walk from Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiora
• Opening Times: 9 am – 4:30 pm
• Cost: $15+
• Suggested Tour: Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill tour – Skip the line and follow your expert guide to the first and second levels of the Colosseum and see the Arch of Titus at the Roman Forum where Julius Caesar was buried. You’ll also see the triumphal Arch of Constantine and learn about the history of Romes most famous monuments.

Where better to explore the remnants of ancient Rome than at the most famed landmark of the Roman Empire – the Colosseum? The Colosseum is a massive oval amphitheater once used as a venue for brutal gladiator fighting and blood sports.

It is in excellent condition, considering it is nearly 2,000 years old and has lived through earthquakes and other damaging events. The Colosseum is the world’s largest amphitheater. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering around the different levels. The Colosseum will be the longest time you spend at an attraction today.

The best Colosseum tickets give you fast-track entry to avoid the long lines. Skip these lines because you’ll be stood there for hours – not fun in the midday heat and when you have a short, three-day Rome itinerary. Book tickets to enter the Colosseum in advance and make sure they let you skip the line.

Palatine Hill

Once you’ve explored the Colosseum, head just a minute away to Palatine Hill, where you’ll find the Roman Forum ruins. Once home to crucial government buildings, the rectangular Roman Forum is now known for its photogenic ruins.

Take your time to wander the columns and remains of ancient structures at ease. The forum was one of the most important places in Rome, and apart from government buildings, it was where public speeches and criminal trials were carried out.

Allow around an hour to enjoy the Roman Forum and book online to avoid queuing for a ridiculous amount of time. Some tours, like the one we’ve linked, sell Colosseum and Roman Forum tickets together, which is convenient.

Recommended Tour: This Express Tour offers skip-the-line access to the Colosseum with a guide. You will then have access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to explore at your own pace. Optional upgrade to include an arena tour.

Piazza Venezia

• A 12-minute walk from Basilica de Santa Maria Maggiora
• Opening Times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free and Can be Visited Independently.
• Suggested Tour: Vespa Tour – We loved our Vespa Tour that gave us all the highlights of the Eternal City. Feel like a local on a Vespa with the safety of a local guide and driver as you relax in a sidecar. It takes you to all the top attractions and important sights. Plus, you’ll enjoy a taste of fresh coffee and gelato.

The Piazza Venezia might not be an attraction related to ancient Rome. Still, it is so en route that you should definitely check it out. With just 3 days in Rome, what have you got to lose? The piazza is a grand town square with plenty of wow factor and features Italy’s ‘Tomb of the Unknown Soldier’ and a monument to the country’s first king. It is a whistle-stop attraction and perfect for squeezing in along your way to your next significant sightseeing opportunity.

Piazza Venezia is also an excellent spot to detour from for lunch; by now, we bet you’ve worked up an appetite. You can stop by one of the little restaurants dotted around the piazza (around a five-minute walk in most cases). Alternatively, pick one of the attractions surrounding the piazza as an extra stop-off – for example, Palazzo Bonaparte, which was once home to Napoleon’s mother.

Afternoon: Pantheon

• 11-minute walk from Piazza Venezia
• Opening Times: 9 am to 6:45 pm
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Pantheon Audio Guide Tour lets you enjoy the Pantheon at your own pace following your audio guide that you collect from the desk to learn about 15 points of interest inside the basilica.

The Pantheon is another world-famous addition to Rome’s historic center built between 25 and 27 B.C. Once a Roman temple, the Pantheon was formally changed into a Catholic church in 609 AD and then a mausoleum. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved monuments from Ancient Rome.

The classic pillared structure is an iconic building. Since it is free to enter and usually without long lines – why not pay it a visit? Reservations are only required on weekends and special dates. When you go inside, you’ll get a better look at the dome (nicknamed the Basilica of Santa Maria), which acts as a giant sundial.

It is within easy walking distance of Piazza Venezia. While it is free to enter, those wanting a little extra insight can book an audio-guided tour. The Pantheon is one of those buildings you just have to tick off. Plus, you only need half an hour or so to enjoy it. It is a great addition as you are getting tired at the end of a long day, and it is en route if you want to take a quick peek at the outside and then move on.

Optional detour: Largo di Torre Argentina

• 6 minutes walk from the Pantheon
• Opening Times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Visit independently

Largo di Torre Argentina is the harrowed spot where Julius Caesar was murdered by senators and traitors. You can visit the archaeological ruins and pet the bizarre amount of cats that have moved into the area. Totally free, it is a perfect budget-friendly addition to your itinerary and only requires 20 minutes or so.

Piazza Navona

• 4 minute’s walk from the Pantheon
• Opening Times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Piazza Navona Underground Tour is an audio guide tour that takes you 5 meters (15 feet) underground to explore the ruins of the Stadium of Domitian and learn about Roman sports where you’ll see artifacts from the ancient Roman Empire.

Speaking of easy additions, Piazza Navona is one of the most famed squares in Rome and is built on the former site of the Stadium of Domitian. The stadium dates back to 1 AD and held athletics competitions for ancient Roman spectators.

While technically, the square belongs to the Baroque period, the ancient history links to both the former site and the fountains. It is a really atmospheric place to experience Rome and will be jam-packed at this time.

The piazza is free to visit and only takes a minute or two to appreciate if you have done enough sightseeing today. It is on the route to your final destination and is an excellent spot to sit and catch your breath. Or, if you want to splash out and spend a little longer at Piazza Navona, book the underground tour linked above.

Museo Nationale Romano, Palazzo Altemps

• 2 minute walk from Piazza Navona
• Opening Times: 11 am – 6 pm
• Cost: $10+
• Suggested Tour: Visit independently

Your final destination is just a short walk from Piazza Navona. Museo Nationale Romano, Palazzo Altemps is home to historical artifacts galore – from Renaissance artwork to ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.

The museum has stunning architecture and plenty of shaded marbled walkways that are perfect for browsing sculptures and cooling off after your walks in the sun. The building is a 15th-century palace worth a visit in its own right. However, the collection of artifacts really is astounding, and since it is classed as more of a ‘hidden gem’ in Rome, you shouldn’t find it too crowded.

Entrance tickets can be booked online or on arrival. You visit independently and explore the museum grounds on a self-guided basis. It is the perfect place for art enthusiasts or even those just wanting a more creative (or cooler place with AC) spot to finish their first day.

Evening E-Bike Tour with Food and Wine

If you want to see highlights of Rome while dining, book an ebiking tour with food and wine tastings. This is a great way to see the sights like the Trevi Fountain and Pantheon while enjoying cheese and wine. The adventure begins at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore where you’ll follow your guide through the city including the streets of Monti and admire the Fori Imperiali. You’ll see the famous squares of Rome and climb up the Campidoglio. More details here.

Day 2 in Rome: Modern Rome

Day 2 of our 3 days in Rome itinerary is dedicated to a more modern side of Rome. This is a day to indulge in all things food and shopping – taking advantage of that Italian indulgence and class. Whether you window shop at designer Italian shops or take a food tour, you’ll get a taste of modern living in Rome and a strong sense of Italian pride and identity. Besides, you can’t visit Rome and not dedicate a decent portion of your time to tasting its delicious dishes.

If you are visiting Rome on a budget, just stick to window shopping rather than buying. We’ll direct you to a classic shopping district that is just as exciting for general visitors as it is for shoppers. Similarly, a food tour is more budget-friendly than a cooking class. If you want to splash out, you could swap the food tour for a more expensive cooking experience. Both of these options sell out fast, so book well in advance.

Rome Itinerary Day 2

Feeling prepared to tackle modern Rome? Good, because Rome waits for nobody. From street food to the Spanish Steps, day two, here we go.

Morning Food Tour

You’ve ticked off a lot on your first day, so day two is when you can kick back and indulge a bit. Start your day with a street food walking tour. You’ll head around a small area of Rome on a guided tour with a local expert, stopping by the best stalls to sample delicious Italian cuisine.

Food tours are a great way to get adventurous when trying new cuisine. It’s also a good option for those who need encouragement or would appreciate extra information or guidance when trying new dishes. And besides, atmosphere and good company are staples that accompany the best Italian cuisine; food tours are a fantastic way forward.

As an example, the food tour linked above includes five street food tastings, one glass of beer, and one glass of wine. You can also incorporate a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter or Trastevere. This tour finishes like all good experiences – with ice cream. In total, it lasts for 2.5 hours, coming to a close at a popular local gelato stall.

Of course, 2.5 hours might sound like too much after yesterday. Let your own energy levels and interests guide you. And alternatively, if your legs are too tired from all the walking yesterday, book a cooking class.

A cooking class is more expensive, but it includes all your ingredients and an element of tuition. If standing still or sitting down while being introduced to Italian cuisine sounds more appealing, a cooking experience might be more up your street. There are loads of choices, like this pasta and tiramisu workshop or a family-friendly pizza workshop.

This highly-rated pasta & Tiramisu class teaches you how to make pasta and tiramisu from scratch. Or you can choose this Pizza Class that is fun for the whole family in an authentic Pizzeria with a real stone oven.

Cooking class or street food tour, you’ll start your day on the right foot – with a full stomach and mind full of new culinary inspiration. And wherever you finish should be close to our next stop, Piazza di Spagna.

Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps

• Opening Times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Visit independently

Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps are one of the highlights of modern Rome. The 18th-century square is a hub of activity, both during the day and at night, when it glows up beautifully. Visitors can drink straight from the fountain in the square’s center, enjoy the general atmosphere, or climb the Spanish Steps. The Spanish Steps have a distinctive design, arranged in an irregular butterfly shape. The steps are rumored to be Europe’s widest set of steps – although the jury is still out on that one.

You’ll spend a maximum of around half an hour sightseeing Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps. The most modern part of the experience is the shopping around the square. What is more Italian than Italian clothing brands? You can reach Gucci and Balenciaga in seconds from Piazza di Spagna.

Not everyone will want to make expensive purchases, but it is undoubtedly an experience just browsing. You can admire the collections of sky-high-priced tiny handbags and luxe clothing lines. If you wander a minute or so further, you’ll also find Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, and Prada. Italy really is the home of fashion, and experiencing such a high density of catwalk brands in one spot feels a little surreal.

Take your time exploring the square, walking the Spanish Steps, and window shopping. You have a few hours free, so you can take it really easy and stop to treat yourself to lunch or a cold drink. Especially now that you have brushed up on your knowledge of Italian cuisine.

Afternoon: National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

• A 22-minute walk from the Spanish Steps
• Opening Times: 9 am to 7 pm
• Cost: $10+
• Suggested Tour: Rome Pass – Choose from 48 or 72 hours to gain skip-the-line access to Rome’s top attractions. This includes free transportation around the city.

After appreciating the Italian fashion scene, you are in for a modern and contemporary art treat. Around mid-afternoon, head on a 20-minute scenic walk to the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art Museum. You cut through the Villa Borghese park, which is a lovely, refreshing change of scene after a morning in Rome’s busy streets. You’ll be surrounded by fresh plants, greenery, and trees.

If you find yourself with extra time, you can always stop at Borghese Gallery and Museum if it seems something you fancy. The Borghese Gallery is situated in a villa that houses 15th to 18th-century artworks and includes artwork by Bernini and Caravaggio.

Book online in advance if you want to visit Borghese Gallery and Museum before visiting the National Gallery. Alternatively, just head straight to the National Gallery for an experience of modern Italian art rather than older pieces.

The National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art houses masterpieces by renowned artists like Canova and Van Gogh. Ranging mainly from the 19th to 20th centuries, this museum is one that art enthusiasts and more general visitors will love. You don’t need a keen interest in art and extensive background knowledge to get the most out of this gallery.

You can book skip-the-line access or just turn up on the day to purchase tickets on arrival. The National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art is surprisingly a very laidback attraction in Rome. The cool building is the perfect place to escape that outdoor heat.

Evening Activity: Visit Passeggiata del Pincio

• A 12-minute walk from the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art
• Opening Times: 24 hours a day
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Visit independently

End your day just as peacefully as you started, catching the sunset at Passeggiata del Pincio. The Passeggiata is a promenade with over 200 busts of important historical figures in Roman history. Located in the southwest section of the Villa Borghese gardens, you’ll head back through the greenery to finish your day here. Hopefully, you can coincide it with sunset, especially in winter when the nights get darker quicker. However, even in the late afternoon, the views are stunning.

From Passeggiata del Pincio, you get beautiful sights of Piazza del Popolo and the Basilica Santa Maria del Popolo Catholic Church. You can stand against the stone railings and get a much more peaceful perspective on one of Rome’s busiest, most famous squares.

The area is open 24 hours a day and, better yet, is entirely free to enter and enjoy. Expect some crowds, but the romantic atmosphere makes them entirely worthwhile. From your scenic vantage point, take a deep breath and appreciate the close of a day focused entirely on modern luxuries.

Rome Bar Crawl

No visit to Rome would be complete without getting out on the town at night. One of the best introductions to a city’s nightlife is on a bar crawl tour. This highly rated tour shows a different side of Rome that combines sightseeing with cocktails, beer, and wine. Since it takes place at night, you’ll delve into some of Rome’s darker history while enjoying the sights between popping into different bars.

As the night goes on you’ll visit the Monti neighborhood that was once the red light district. Signature drinks you’ll enjoy are Cafe Corretto (Bailey’s and Coffee) and Limoncello as you explore Rome’s most popular bars.

Day 3 in Rome: Vatican City

Visiting Rome is only complete if you visit Vatican City. On our final day of this 3 days in Rome itinerary, you’ll be crossing the Tiber River and entering the smallest country in the world. Yes, you read that right – Vatican City is an independent city-state despite being just an 8th of the size of New York’s Central Park. The Vatican is the head of the Catholic Church and is home to the pope. It has its own army and football team and functions as a very small country within Rome.

Rome Itinerary Day 3

If this sounds like it could be a complicated trip from Rome, rest assured it isn’t. Crossing into the Vatican is a breeze. Vatican City is just a 20-minute train ride from the center of Rome. Depending on where in Rome you are staying, it could even be within walking distance, and since there is no hard border, you can just waltz straight in.

The Vatican City is a highlight of any trip to Rome and has much to do. It definitely demands a whole day. After a break from hardcore sightseeing yesterday, you’ll be ready to tackle the best of the Vatican Museums – including Michelangelo’s legendary Sistine Chapel. Take it steady and pack lots of water. Today will be a day to remember.

Morning: The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

• Opening Times: 9 am to 4 pm
• Cost: $20
• Suggested Tour: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Skip the Queue Ticket – This is one of the world’s busiest museums, so it is worth booking a skip-the-line ticket. You’ll enter through GetYourGuide’s dedicated entrance at your preferred time where you’ll pick up your audio guide and have access to the Sistine Chapel to see Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam.

The Vatican Museums are the highlights of a trip to Vatican City, and the museums are some of the most detailed collections of artifacts in Rome. The museums include the stunning Michelangelo frescoes on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. You’ll be familiar with the image – two people reaching out to each other only a finger apart. When visiting Rome for 3 days, how could we leave this famous scene out?

While there is no formal guided tour, you can purchase skip-the-line tickets for the Vatican Museums, which we thoroughly (thoroughly, thoroughly, and really thoroughly) recommend. The queues are known for being massive, and that’s before you even buy your tickets. Get there early with skip-the-line access.

The Sistine Chapel and the rest of the Vatican Museums are one of the most significant attractions in Italy, never mind just in Rome. A skip-the-line ticket will mean avoiding standing around in the heat for hours. It allows you to maximize your time enjoying the rest of Vatican City.

The Vatican Museums are known for their Roman, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. They contain one of Italy’s finest collections of art, archeology, and ethnology. For museum lovers and even just bucket list tickers, the Vatican Museums are a must-visit in Vatican City. Just make sure to double-check the clothing restrictions before arriving. Shoulders and lower legs need to be covered out of respect before entering.

Afternoon: Gardens of the Vatican City

• 20-minute walk from the Sistine Chapel/Vatican Museums
• Opening Times: 9 am to 6 pm
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Vatican Museums and bus tour around the Gardens of the Vatican City This unique tour lets you see the gardens of the world’s smallest state. The gardens occupy one-third of Vatican City by open-air minibus. Then you will have access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

After wandering indoors, relaxing amongst shaded greenery is heaven on Earth. The Gardens of the Vatican City are fantastic to visit and are full of art, manicured gardens, and water features – including a pool with terrapins. Head straight from the Vatican Museums to the gardens for some cool-off time. You could bring a book and a blanket.

To visit the gardens is free, but if you want a more informative experience, you can book a guided tour. The tour we’ve linked includes entry to the Vatican Museums and a bus tour around the gardens after. This is a good package bundle for those happy to combine the two, and the bus is a unique way to experience a new corner of Rome. It will also save your legs from extra walking, which is always lovely.

St Peter’s Basilica and St Peter’s Square

• 15 minute walk from the Gardens of the Vatican City
• Opening Times: 7 AM to 6 PM
• Cost: Free
• Suggested Tour: Guided Tour with Dome Climb has you joining a guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica that includes climbing to the top of the dome where you’ll look out over St. Peter’s Square and the Vatican Gardens. This dome also has beautiful views of Rome where you can see the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

If you are looking to save money, don’t fear. St Peter’s Basilica and Square have a free entry policy. But they are also some of the biggest names in Italy, let alone Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. St Peter’s Basilica is considered the most beautiful basilica in Rome and is a picture of elegance.

St. Peter’s Basilica was built in Renaissance style and opened in 1626, and it is a massive marker of Catholicism. It is considered a central piece of architecture and identity within Vatican City. It is a place of holy meetings and adoration and is also rumored to be Saint Peter’s final resting place.

In fact, Saint Peter’s tomb is said to lay underneath the high altar of the basilica. If that’s the case, Saint Peter doesn’t lie at St. Peter’s Basilica alone, as all the popes since 1626 have been buried there. Inside, you’ll find a carving that marks all of the popes that the church now houses.

Allow around an hour to fully appreciate St Peter’s Basilica. Opt for modest but lightweight clothing as a compromise between dress code and comfort, and if you don’t book a tour, be prepared to queue.

• 10 minute walk from St Peter’s Basilica
• Opening Times: 9 am – 7:30 pm
• Cost: $15-30
• Suggested Tour: Skip the Queue and Audio Guide Tickets – Like most attractions in Rome, it’s good to have a skip-the-line ticket. This one gives you admission to explore the Mausoleum of Hadrian at Castel Sant’ Angelo at your own pace on your smartphone.

Castel Sant’ Angelo is situated between Vatican City and Rome’s city center, overlooking the Tiber River. There is also a statue of the Roman Emperor Hadrian on its grounds. In winter, it makes a beautiful sunset spot over the Tiber River.

Evening Cruise on the Tiber River

On your final night in Rome, an evening cruise on the Tiber River is a beautiful way to say goodbye to the Eternal City. This highly-rated tour includes appetizers and wine as you take in views of Rome from the river. Depart from Castel Sant’Angelo pier and indulge in a selection of pizzas, pachina, lasagna, and a glass of wine as you enjoy the sunset over Rome’s top landmarks. See more details here.

FAQs: 3 Days in Rome

So you’ve got the ultimate 3 days in Rome itinerary, but you are bound to have some burning questions in mind. Let’s take a look at some common FAQs.

Is 3 days in Rome long enough?

3 days is long enough to see what Rome has to offer. You can visit Vatican City and major attractions like the Colosseum, and Roman Forum and have time to appreciate Italian hospitality culture. You will just have a busy holiday.

How do I plan for 3 days in Rome?

Arrive in Rome with a firm itinerary and a good pair of walking shoes. Make sure you have access to Google Maps, either with a prepaid SIM that gives you local data or offline maps downloaded in the app.

How many days is ideal in Rome?

4 days is ideal for visiting Rome. As the saying goes, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’, and the same patience and duration of time are required to fully appreciate the city in its 21st-century glory. 4 days in Rome gives you time to cover all the significant landmarks and a little time left to relax. You could use this time to experience more off-the-beaten-track attractions or take a day trip somewhere like the beach.

Is 3 days enough to visit Italy?

3 days is enough to have an action-packed city break in Italy. You’d need months and months to get a taste of the entire country. However, if you narrow down where you want to visit, then 3 days is enough to get a brief experience of Italy. Somewhere like Rome, Milan, Venice, or Naples would be ideal.

How many days in Rome are needed?

3 days is the absolute minimum amount of time you need to experience Rome. Anything less than 3 days and you’ll have to sacrifice bucket list attractions and will spend too much time rushing around to actually slow down and appreciate Italian culture.

Is 4 days in Rome enough?

4 days is perfect for visiting Rome. It is easy to fit into a long weekend and is short enough that it gets expensive with hotel fees. However, 4 days also allow you to see all the major attractions and have a bit of downtime.

Can Rome be done in 3 days?

Yes, Rome can be done in 3 days. You will have time to see all the main tourist attractions, including the chance to cross the Tiber River and venture into Vatican City. You will need good time management skills, though. It will involve quick walking and ‘ticking off’ experiences rather than leisurely experiencing certain attractions. In short, Rome can be done in 3 days, but whether you want to do that depends on you as an individual.

How to spend 7 days in Rome?

If you spend 7 days in Rome, you have won the itinerary jackpot. In 7 days, you can leisurely explore Rome’s museums. Places like the Borghese Gallery, which we skipped over in our 3 days in Rome itinerary, can be enjoyed in more detail. You can even add a day trip or overnight trip to your itinerary. Destinations like Pompeii make great detours from Rome, and Pompeii is just under two hours away on the train.

Quick Tips

One way to make the most of your Rome itinerary is with a series of quick insider tips. These are some essential things to remember:

Learn a few of the dining etiquette rules

Italy has a lot of food crimes. While you are unlikely to actually get a slap on the wrist for anything (within reason), researching a few etiquette rules beforehand is an excellent way to embrace Italian food culture. For instance, a cappuccino is only drunk before noon since milk is best paired with breakfast. After noon, a caffe macchiato is a socially acceptable alternative.

Rome has free attractions on the first Sunday of every month

Any attraction owned by the state rather than private companies offers free entrance on the first Sunday of every month. If you are visiting Rome on this date, it is worth bagging free entrance to one of the more expensive museums or galleries. It does get busy, though, as good ideas only stay secret for a short time. Get there early to avoid getting stuck at the back of a huge queue.

Mind your pockets and bags

Rome is very safe on the whole. However, like most big cities, it is not immune from pickpocketing and street theft. Don’t tempt would-be thieves by leaving valuables hanging out of open pockets and if possible, store luggage securely to avoid carrying bags around that you be snatched. We’ll cover luggage storage in more detail later.

Be aware of laminated menus

Dining in Rome is exciting, but it can feel like you are constantly dodging tourist traps. One sign that a restaurant is more targeted toward tourists than authentic Italian cuisine is that the menu is laminated. Similar signs include being a short walk from a major attraction, showing pictures of the food on the menu, and leaving salt and pepper ready on the table.

When to visit Rome

The best month to visit Rome is October, as long as you avoid the October Half Term holiday, which is popular amongst families. October still has warm temperatures and light evenings. Still, it is a shoulder season and attracts fewer crowds than in July and August. It is also nice to have slightly cooler temperatures for sightseeing, as Rome gets notoriously hot in summer, situated inland with a little breeze.

Can’t visit Rome in October? Well, there are some more choices. October to April is generally considered the best period to visit Rome, but we can break that down further. While December and January are festive, they are rather hectic. February and March are good options for fewer crowds, and temperatures aren’t totally freezing, reaching up to 62 degrees Fahrenheit.

How to get around Rome

You can quickly get around Rome on foot with a bit of planning. This is a great way to soak up the city’s atmosphere, too – walking is how you find ‘pinch yourself’ corner street cafes with the best coffees and little squares you’d have never thought to visit.

For the sake of our 3 days in Rome itinerary, we’ve planned an itinerary that connects attractions within walking distance. The majority of Rome’s major attractions are accessible on foot. Of course, you need to know what order to see attractions in before you set off; otherwise, you end up walking large, unnecessary distances.

!f you need to hurry things up a bit, no problem. The Rome metro connects the city well, with metro stations dotted all over the city center and outer suburbs. Three metro lines run diagonally across the city: A, B, and C. While it is one of the smallest metro systems in a European city, the Rome metro does pass many tourist sights you couldn’t reach easily on foot. It is most convenient for tourists and commuters from outer Rome.

Does the metro not pass your planned destination? The bus is your next choice. Rome has over 350 different bus lines, including several night buses. There are four types of Rome buses to remember: Urban lines (U), night buses (N), express buses (X), and exact buses (E). Rome’s tram system is another good option, and Rome has six tram lines that run from 5:30 am until midnight every night. Of course, you will also find taxis if you get really stuck.

Luggage Storage

Most hotels will provide you with luggage storage after and before check-in. It is always worth checking with your hotel before seeking other luggage storage options. And since you’ll be walking around a lot in Rome, you don’t want to carry any unnecessary weight.

If your hotel isn’t an option, there are several luggage storage facilities around Rome. The most popular ones include Stow Your Bags, scattered throughout the city. You’ll find Stow Your Bags near the Vatican, Piazza di Spagna, and Roma Termini. This is useful, considering some attractions will only let you bring large bags inside. Just download offline maps in the Google Maps app to get directions without using data or wifi.

Prices range from $6 depending on how long you store luggage, and some storage spots let you keep bags there for multiple days.

How to get to Rome from the Airport

Getting from the airport to Rome’s city center might not be the most exciting part of your Rome itinerary, but it is an important part. Rome has two airports – Fiumicino Airport and Ciampino Airport. 

Fiumicino Airport

Fiumicino Airport is nicknamed ‘Leonardo da Vinci Airport’ and is the most popular airport for international travelers. If you are flying with a well-established airline, you will fly into Fiumicino. The best way from Fiumicino Airport to Rome city center is on the Leonardo Express, a 32-minute train ride for just $19. This is ideal if you want the easiest, quickest option. Otherwise, you could get a bus transfer if you want to save some money, as a return bus transfer costs $13.80 and takes just 50 minutes – slightly longer. SIT BuShuttle and Terravision are the leading bus companies from Fiumicino Airport. Alternatively, you could book a private transfer which starts at around $80 USD.

Ciampino Airport

Ciampino Airport is primarily used for budget airlines. You’ll land at Ciampino Airport if you bag a flight deal. The only option (apart from a taxi) to get to Rome city center from Ciampino Airport is to book a bus transfer. You hop on the bus outside Ciampino Airport, and it takes you to the Termini Station in the center of Rome in 40 minutes. The bus costs $13.80 for a return trip and requires online booking in advance since it is really popular.

As far as taxis are concerned for both airports, you may find it easier to schedule a pick-up service in advance. Rome is notorious for taxi scams. Try to pay in advance where possible and always agree on a fare before entering a taxi. From Fiumicino Airport, taxis cost around $50 and take 40 minutes to central Rome. From Ciampino Airport, the taxi costs 25 minutes and costs just under $40 usually.

Where to stay in Rome for 3 days

Rome has some fantastic hotels. The ‘eternal city’ has a lot of options. Do you want somewhere steps away from Piazza del Popolo or Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, or just enjoy excellent facilities and a pool? You can check out our comprehensive guide on where to stay in Rome here. But for some quick suggestions, these are our top three.

Luxury: The St. Regis Rome

St. Regis Rome looks more like a palace than a hotel. To splash out on luxury accommodation in Rome, St. Regis Rome is your best option. This hotel has its own in-house spa and health club and was formally recognized as one of the world’s best hotels by Travel & Leisure. The luxe property even offers an afternoon tea experience and Murano glass chandeliers in several grand hallways.

The hotel is favored amongst honeymooners and celebrities, and its guest reviews are glowing reports of outstanding customer service and superb facilities. Right next to the Roma Termini, St. Regis Rome is as central as central can get, and you are within easy walking distance of most major attractions. Get rates and availability here.

Mid-Range: Nerva Boutique Hotel

Nerva Boutique Hotel is a gorgeous three-star hotel with tasteful, chic decor and a spacious collection of rooms and suites. For comfortable luxuries and a high-quality base for your stay in Rome, it is a haven priced for a mid-range budget. Each room features air conditioning, satellite TV, and elegant wooden furniture pieces. The rooms are decorated in bold, rich colors like navy with hip ornaments and furnishings. Guests get a continental breakfast and complimentary wifi. And, as a cherry on top, you are just minutes from the Colosseum and Roman Forum on Palatine Hill. Get rates and availability here.

Budget: Free Hostels Roma

Free Hostels Roma has dormitories and private rooms, offering the perfect accommodation for travelers on a budget. The hostel has female-only dormitories for female travelers wanting extra security as well. It has a complimentary breakfast and excellent communal facilities like a terrace and bar. Its location is dreamy too. The property is just 3 km from the Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, and Colosseum. Check rates and availability here.

Where to eat in Rome

Where to eat in Rome is a serious question. Italian cuisine has a reputation that spans the entire globe. When visiting Italy, experiencing the culinary scene is an absolute must. We’ve already carved out special time for tasting Italian food in our 3 days in Rome itinerary. However, for evening meals and fancy lunches, there is still plenty of space to try different restaurants across the city.

From tiny corner street venues famed for traditional pasta to the ultimate dessert spot, these five places are the best places to eat in Rome.

Felice e Testaccio is a retro, traditional restaurant famed for its ‘cacio e pepe’ dish, spaghetti noodles smothered in cheese and black pepper. The noodles are brought to your table and tossed in front of you, performatively served onto your plate. Felice e Testaccio brings both food quality and a restaurant atmosphere with plenty of character.

Fassi Gelateria has been serving sweet treats since 1880 – even serving royalty on occasion. It has some of the most delicious gelatos in all of Rome. For a traditional experience, opt for the gelato sandwich.

Moma is a Michelin-starred gem located directly in front of the US Embassy. To treat yourself to a Michelin-starred meal in the capital of Italy is certainly an experience, and you’ll find luxurious twists of all the beloved Italian classics.

Aroma is a Michelin-starred restaurant, as well, although this restaurant offers a bit of a twist. It is situated on the rooftop of the five-star hotel Palazzo Manfredi Hotel. It has stunning views of the Colosseum, which is close enough to touch. Aroma is a brilliant if slightly expensive, dining spot for an unobstructed view of Rome’s most famous landmark.

Why You Should Visit Rome

Visiting Rome is a guarantee to have a holiday of a lifetime. The city is full of interesting facts and attractions from years gone by, and this Rome itinerary will keep you well entertained. We hope that you enjoy this three days in Rome itinerary.

Of course, if you find some extra time to spend in Rome, you can easily adapt the three-day Rome itinerary. If you have 4 days in Rome, add a beach day to your itinerary. With four days, you’ll have enough time to venture out of central Rome and into the suburbs. You could head to the beach or choose another day trip – check our guide for off-the-beaten-track destinations outside Rome.