US Travel Guides Archives - Live Adventure Travel

How to get Jimmy Fallon Tickets for FREE in 2026!

Laura — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 01:35:00 +0000

One thing is for certain, you will never run out of things to do in New York City, from taking in the views of the iconic skyline, cycling a bike around Central Park or enjoy the famous NYC pizza slices.

However, for such a well known city it is surprising how many attractions slide under the radar. One of them being, TV Show tappings. Did you know that you can sit in the audience of some of your favourite American talks shows while you’re in New York?

Well, you can…and one of them is the iconic Jimmy Fallow Show. I was looking to attend a live tapping back in 2018. And my god it was a pinch me moment. And today, I am going to show you how you can do the same.

So, without further a do, this is how to get Jimmy Fallon tickets for FREE while visiting NYC!

how to get tickets for jimmy fallon – Option 1

Getting tickets is surprisingly easier than you would expect. You just need to do a little bit of pre planning, have a small bit of patience and a splash of good luck.

Let’s first take a look at the main way to securing tickets – the lottery method as I like to call it.

I would start off by following the official Tonight Show Tickets on twitter (X as it is now known as). They typically announce ticket releases on there first.

The Tonight Show Tickets are usually made available once a month, and the twitter account will generally announce the release date with plenty of notice.

When you click the link twitter you will be redirected to Jimmy Fallon ticket section on the 1iota website.

It is important to note that tickets go FAST, so make sure to set a timer on your phone to avoid disappointment.

The website will invite you to join the lottery for your selected date. You will need to fill out all your information, including an email address. Once you have completed the form it is time to wait. It all comes down to faith after that (well, sort of, there is one other way to secure tickets which I will explain later in the post).

jimmy fallon Tickets important information

Ok, so there is a few things that you need to know both before and after securing your tickets. We will address them in this section of the post.

You can check your ticket status

As you can imagine, tickets are limited due to the high volume of people trying to get them. Therefore, don’t be surprised if you don’t hear back after filling out the lottery request.

Generally, you will find out if you received a ticket at least a week before the tapping. It is rare that you will receive a ticket 24 hours before hand, however, this is not unheard of.

The 1iota does have a status checker to see your application status. This is perfect for those looking to work their New York Itinerary around getting tickets.

Age restrictions

All guests must be over the age of 16 to attend the show. This is regardless of of whether a parent or guardian is present. Everyone must also bring a form of identification and proof of date of birth to the tapping.

There is a dress code

While the website does not state what kind of attire audience members should wear it does say that ticket holders can be refused entree. So, my best advice is to dress moderately. You are potentially going to be on TV after all.

You MUST be ontime

When you receive your ticket you will be given a check-in time. It is important you arrive at that time or slightly before it as the ticket still does not guarantee entree into the studio. Sometimes, they overbook and the first to come will receive a seat over late arrivals.

how to get tickets to jimmy fallon – Option 2

Ok, so you didn’t hear back from the booking system, and you are devastated.

Don’t worry all hope is not lost, you still have a chance of securing tickets through the standby method. Although, you will have to have a lot of patience for this! Just a little bit of prior warning.

Typically, they hand out standby tickets for every taping when there is last minute availability. And, you can get your hands on one of these tickets by visiting the Shop at NBC Studios between 8 am – 3 pm EST on the day of filming.

Again, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the Tonight Show Tickets on twitter as they announce if there is any standby tickets left.

This is actually how I managed to see the live show from central park. I lined up for hours Still 100% worth it!

Now, just because you receive a standby ticket, it doesn’t mean you automatically get to see the show. You will have to line up at the venue at a certain time and IF they have a few seat free in the studio you will be invited to sit down. It’s the luck of the draw really.

When I went to the show in Central Park, I was standby ticket number 13, they wrote numbers on my ticket when I arrived. I was glad I got there early because I was one of the last people to get in, and there were A LOT of people behind me.

However, in this circumstance things were a little different because the show was outside and a tropical storm was supposed to hit (thankfully it didn’t), therefore, they released more tickets expecting some people to drop out.

tonight show jimmy fallon tickets FAQ

Ok, so let’s clear all the confusion up by answering some of the most asked questions about getting the Tonight Show Jimmy Fallon tickets.

How easy is it to get Jimmy Fallon tickets?

I wouldn’t say it is easy to get tickets to Jimmy Fallon, but it is also not hard. It really just comes down to luck and determination.

How much is the Jimmy Fallon show?

Tickets to the Jimmy Fallon Show are FREE and done on a lottery style system. You should not be asked for money to see a live tapping.

What time is Jimmy Fallon filmed?

Most tapping begin at 5pm, however, this may vary depending on the type of show it is. If it is a special tapping they may start slightly earlier or later.

Is there a dress code for Jimmy Fallon?

Simple but nice clothes are fine. Smart casual if you will. Remember that the camera might be on you. They reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone who is not dressed properly.

How long is the Jimmy Fallon tapping?

It will take about an hour and a half to do the taping, and the whole experience, from checking in to the end of the show, should take about four hours.

What can I bring to the Jimmy Fallon show?

When your group is told to leave the Peacock Lounge and go to the studio, all cell phones and cameras must be turned off. After this time, anyone caught using a cell phone, taking pictures, or making videos could be kicked out of the studio. In the Peacock Lounge and the studio, you will not be able to bring backpacks, luggage, large shopping bags, weapons of any kind, mace, spray bottles, promotional items, food, or drinks. You can bring bottled water.

My experience getting tickets to jimmy fallon

PINCH ME I’M DREAMING! The exact four words that repeatedly replayed in my head on the 13th of September, 2018. Safe to say, it was one of the most exciting Thursdays of my life.

I was lucky enough to secure Jimmy Fallon tickets. Yes, that’s right, JIMMY FRICKEN FALLON. Not only was I a studio audience member of Jimmy Fallon, I was a studio audience member of Jimmy Fallon’s first show in Central Park.

To top off my excitement, the celebrity guests of the show where out of this world. The first being, Blake Lively. Like, I just basically spent the day exploring the sets of gossip girl, aka the streets of New York and a few hours later I was sitting a few metre away from the leading lady herself. Teenage me was fangirling inside. Blake was amazing. I really wish I took more pictures for you guys but I was so blown away from excitement and awe.

The second guest was none other than Carrie Underwood. Blake, Carrie, Henry Golding and Jimmy battled in a game of name that song. I’m used to watching on Youtube so it was super cool to see in person and absolutely hilarious.

The show was unbeilable, Carrie and Jimmy even had a little karaoke session after the camera’s were turned off. I am still in disbelief that I had the opportunity to see it live.

This is one of New Yorks best kept secrets, and must do for anyone looking to do some unique while in the city!

Other New York TV Show Tickets

Tickets for Jimmy Fallon are not the only FREE tv experience in New York City. In fact, two years prior to securing tickets to the tonight show I was in the audience of Live with Kelly. I even managed to get on TV! (I won a competition).

There are some other New York TV show tickets up for grabs, including, Good Morning America, Late Night with Seth Meyers, The Rachel Ray Show, Saturday Night Live and The View to name a few.

Now, the process for getting each ticket are a little different so it is worth doing a little research in advance. For the live with Kelly tickets I just arrived on the day, originally I had tickets to a completely different show. It was however, February, when New York is a little less busy.

So, to get tickets for live with Kelly and Ryan online, visit the official website. I hope you enjoyed this blog post, if you have any question please don’t hesitate to ask in the comment section below. And Best of luck getting your tickets.

The post How to get Jimmy Fallon Tickets for FREE in 2026! appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

New York to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary: National Parks, Beautiful Hikes & Iconic

Laura — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 21:45:00 +0000

The United States is one of the best countries in the world to go on an epic road trip. It is home to many diverse landscapes and within a matter of hours, you can go from being in an enchanting national park to a vibrant city. No matter what route you decide to take, one thing is for certain, you will be blown away by the beautiful scenery the US has to offer. In this post, we are going to highlight all the wonderful stops you should make if you are considering adding a New York to Los Angeles Road Trip to your US Bucket List.

New York to Los Angeles Road Route

Before we dive into our detailed itinerary for a New York to California Road Trip let’s take the route we will take, starting in the iconic city that is New York and ending in Los Angeles. This route will provide you with a lifetime of memories, experiences and sights to see.

New York to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

Ok, so before we begin with our itinerary. I wanted to address one important note, this itinerary is perfect for the Spring and Summer months as some roads are closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall and ice. For those of you from New York, I recommend skipping days 1-3 as they feature things to do in the NYC area.

Liberty State Park, New Jersey

Stop 1: New York City

Ok, so the first stop on our US road trip itinerary is none other than NEW YORK CITY.

That’s right, spend the first 4 days of your American dream in the big apple.

Check out some of the iconic skyscrapers, catch an outstanding Broadway performance or visit some of New York’s top-notch attractions.

I’d recommend splitting the New York portion of this road trip into four sections Mid-Town Manhattan, Lower Manhattan, Central Park and Brooklyn.

New York is HUGE but by following my 4-day guide, it will be easy to cover all the must-see attractions and some more off-the-beaten-track locations without spending all too much money and time on the subway.

For me, the best part of my New York visit would have to be getting the opportunity to sit in the audience of Jimmy Fallon. It was a truly unique and unforgettable experience. One I’d highly recommend trying to secure tickets too. After all, they are 100% free.

Top 5 things to do in New York City

See a Broadway Show: I decided to threat myself on a rainy day in New York, by buying tickets to the Broadway version of Frozen. And let me tell you it did not disappoint. I highly recommend choosing a show that best suits you and your interests, whether it’s a classic like The Lion King or a newer production like Hamilton. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as shows tend to sell out quickly!

Take the Staten Island Ferry: For a free and scenic way to see the Statue of Liberty, hop on the Staten Island Ferry. This 25-minute ride offers great views of the city skyline and Lady Liberty herself.

Cycle Around Central Park: Rent a bike and explore the beautiful Central Park at your own pace. With 843 acres to cover, there’s plenty to see including scenic views, famous landmarks, and even some wildlife.

Indulge in New York’s Food Scene: With such a diverse population, New York City offers a wide variety of cuisines to try. From street vendors selling hot dogs and pretzels, to high-end restaurants serving up gourmet meals, there’s something for every taste and budget.

Wonder Around Brooklyn: Take a trip across the Brooklyn Bridge and explore the hip neighborhoods of Brooklyn. Here you can find trendy shops, delicious food, and great views of the Manhattan skyline. And of course walk across the bridge!

Where to Stay in New York

Budget-Friendly Option: HI NYC Hostel located in the Upper West Side, this hostel offers affordable dorm rooms and private rooms. It also has a shared kitchen and common areas for socializing with other travellers.

Great Deal Option: Pod 39 Hotel – This stylish hotel offers compact and modern rooms at an affordable price. It also **features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

High-End Option: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott located by times square , this high-end hotel offers spacious and modern rooms with luxurious amenities. It also has a fitness center and onesite rooftop lounge serving cocktails and small bites.

Luxury Option: Royalton Park Avenue is a trendy and stylish hotel in the heart of Manhattan, just a short walk from popular landmarks such as the Empire State Building and Madison Square Park. It offers lavish rooms, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant.

Next Destination	Niagara Falls
Drive Time	6/7 hours (Big Drive Day) (Directions)

Spectacular rainbows at the Niagara Falls (purchased stock)

Stop 2: Niagara Falls, New York

On day 5 of your epic road trip from New York to Los Angeles, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring power of Niagara Falls.

It is honestly, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, you’ll be able to feel the spray on your face and see the massive volume of water plunging down into the river below. It is no wonder, Niagara Falls is one of the most popular falls in New York state. It’s an experience not to be missed.

At night, the falls are illuminated with a dazzling firework display that will take your breath away. You can see the times here.

The next morning, board the Maid of the Mist and prepare to be drenched as you venture into the heart of the falls.

After the boat tour, take some time to explore the grounds and enjoy the beautiful views from every angle. And don’t forget to take plenty of pictures.

MOST UNIQUE TOUR

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls, USA: Guided Tour w/ Boat & Cave
Boat Tour Through the Falls
Tower entry ticket
Cave of the Winds entry ticket

↳ Book it

Where to stay at the Niagara Falls

Camping Option: Niagara Falls KOA Campsite (Where I Stayed) located on Grand Island, this campsite offers a peaceful and scenic setting just minutes away from the Niagara Falls. It has a variety of camping options including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. The site also features amenities such as swimming pools, mini-golf, and laundry facilities.

Budget-Friendly Option: Gorge View Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel located just across the Niagara Falls State Park. It offers both dorm-style and private rooms, as well as shared kitchen facilities and a common lounge area.

Great Deal Option: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York is a 4-star hotel located just minutes from the Niagara Falls State Park. It offers spacious and modern rooms, an indoor pool, and on-site dining options.

Mid-Range Option: The Giacomo is a 3-star hotel located just a short walk from the Niagara Falls. It features elegant and upscale rooms, a rooftop lounge with stunning views of the fireworks from the 19th floor.

Next Destination	Sandusky, Ohio
Drive Time	4.5 hours (Directions)

Sunset, Sandusky, Ohio

Stop 3: Sandusky Ohio

The next stop on our trip is Sandusky Ohio, the purpose of this stop off is to relax and take it easy. This may seem like a boring option right now but believe me you will need it!

Being constantly on the go can get incredibly tiring, especially when you are driving.

If you do wish to do something in the area then I recommend checking out Cedar Point Amusement Park, known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”. It is a must-visit for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies.

Or, for nature lovers , there is the beautiful and tranquil Kelly’s Island State Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails, bird watching, and even camping.

Where to stay Sandusky Ohio

The Cedar Point’s Express Hotel is a convenient and affordable option, located just a few minutes away from Cedar Point. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and free shuttle services to the amusement park.

Tru By Hilton Sandusky has a fun and modern design, with amenities such as a gym, indoor pool, and free breakfast.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sandusky, located just a short drive away from Cedar Point, offers comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast. The hotel also has an indoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a day of rides and attractions.

Sandusky KOA Campground is a great option for those looking to stay in a more outdoor environment. The campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins. It also has amenities such as a swimming pool, playground, and mini golf course. This is where I stayed on my trip and I loved it!

Next Destination	Chicago, Illinois
Drive Time	2.5 hours (Directions)

Chicago Drive Tip
If time allows, I’d advise stopping in a small town called Shipshewana on the way to Chicago, it is a quaint village with a large Amish population. Before my trip, I was guilty of believing that the Amish were ‘weird’ or a ‘little odd’. And this is a common misperception among many thanks to main stream media outlets. However, I was pleasantly surprised, my friends and I ended up chatting to a family of Amish as we stopped for some lunch in a local park. I found them to be some of the kindest people I met on my travels. During the two-hour conversation, we exchanged stories and learned about each other’s cultures. They didn’t once judge us for a life choices, they where intrigued to meet so many international people and greeted us with opening arms. It was a really humbling and memorable experience. Although my friends did need to translate my Irish accent a few times

Chicago Drive Tip

If time allows, I’d advise stopping in a small town called Shipshewana on the way to Chicago, it is a quaint village with a large Amish population. Before my trip, I was guilty of believing that the Amish were ‘weird’ or a ‘little odd’. And this is a common misperception among many thanks to main stream media outlets.

However, I was pleasantly surprised, my friends and I ended up chatting to a family of Amish as we stopped for some lunch in a local park. I found them to be some of the kindest people I met on my travels. During the two-hour conversation, we exchanged stories and learned about each other’s cultures. They didn’t once judge us for a life choices, they where intrigued to meet so many international people and greeted us with opening arms.

It was a really humbling and memorable experience. Although my friends did need to translate my Irish accent a few times

View from Willis Tower, Chicago

Stop 4: Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a must add to anyone’s US Bucket List, known for it’s iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower, the famous Bean sculpture and the beautiful Lake Michigan.

The city also has a thriving food scene, with a range of cuisines too choose from. And we can’t forget about the famous deep dish pizza that Chicago is known for. Word’s can not decribe how delicous these are. So, much so I wish it was possible to get them in Ireland.

I also highly advise trying to catch a cubs game while in the city, even if you don’t understand the rules of baseball. I did not have a clue what was going on, yet had such a brillant time cheering alongside the locals.

The nightlife after a baseball win is also incredible, the atmosphere is sure you put you in an amazing mood, there is also endless options of bars and clubs to choose from.

A night time bike tour through the city is also a MUST! We explored with Bobby’s Bike tours and had the BEST time. Admiring the skyscrapers soar above us, taking in the nighttime fireworks and racing through the streets of Chicago.

More Things to do in Chicago:

Willis Tower Sky Deck is an amazing experience. Walkout on a glass platform with Chicago’s skyline presented before you. It’s a thrilling and exciting experience to say the least.
Chicago sits on Lake Michigan, although, it almost seems more like the sea as the lake is so big. I’d advise taking sometime to walk along the waterfront to admire the views.
Buckingham Fountain, is also quite a nice place to stop and take a picture.
In the summer months (on Wednesdays and Saturdays) there is a biweekly firework display. It is worth checking out if you happen to be there when they are on.

Where to Stay in Chicago

HI Hostel Chicago is a great budget option, centrally located in downtown Chicago. It offers shared and private rooms, as well as various amenities such as a common room, self-catering kitchen and free breakfast.

For those looking for luxury accommodations, the Waldorf Astoria Chicago is highly recommended. This elegant hotel offers spacious rooms, a spa and fitness center, as well as various dining options.

For mid range travellers then Virgin Hotels Chicago is a great choice. This hotel offers unique room designs, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, and various amenities such as a fitness center and complimentary social hour.

Next Destination	Lake Okoboji, Iowa
Drive Time	7.5 hours (Directions)

Sunrise, Lake Okoboji, Iowa

Stop 5: Gull Point State Park

Next, it is time to say goodbye to the State of Illinois and hello to Iowa. The drive here is LONG, so make sure you are prepared, with plenty of snacks, a good playlist and some road trip games.

You will be stopping in the highly underatted Gull Point State Park, home to the beautiful Lake Okoboji.

There is plenty to do in and around the state park, from taking part in the stunning walking trails, fishing and water sports.

If camping is your vibe then I reccomend staying in the park itself and waking up early to watch the sunrise the next morning.

It’s magical here!

Where to stay near Lake Okoboji

The Oakwood Inn, located just a short distance from Lake Okoboji, is a charming and cozy bed-and-breakfast that offers a peaceful retreat for guests. The inn features comfortable rooms with modern amenities, as well as a delicious homemade breakfast each morning. It also has a beautiful outdoor patio area where guests can relax and take in the serene surroundings.

Vintage Block Inn & Suites is another great option for accommodations near Lake Okoboji. This hotel offers a variety of room types, including spacious suites with lake views. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s outdoor pool, as well as its convenient location near popular attractions like Arnolds Park Amusement Park.

Next Destination	Badlands National Park
Drive Time	Just over 5 hours (Directions)

Stop 6: Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Badland’s National Park is one of those places that took my breath away.

If I am being honest, it wasn’t even that high up on my bucket list before visiting, but it quickly surpassed my expectations.

The unique landscape of the park, with its rugged rock formations and canyons, is truly a sight to see. It feels like you stepped away from planet earth and straight onto the moon.

Not to mention, the sunsets here are to die for, not only does the sky light up in a reddish hue, so does the landscapes.

It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive the Badland’s National Park loop and stop at each viewpoint. Alternatively, you can take part in a range of walks and hikes with the most popular being the Door and Window trails which are both about a mile long.

Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes as it can get quite hot and the terrain is rocky. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife such as bison, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep that call this park home.

Where to stay in Badlands National Park South Dakota

Badlands and White River KOA (Where I Stayed) located just outside of the national park, this KOA offers a range of accommodation options from tent sites to cabins. It also has a pool and hot tub for guests to enjoy after a day exploring the park.

Best Western Plains Motel – conveniently located in the town of Wall, this motel is just a short drive from the park. It offers comfortable rooms and amenities such as a pool and hot tub.

America Best Value Inn Wall – another budget-friendly option, this motel is also located in Wall and offers basic rooms and amenities.

Under Canvas Mount Rushmore – for a unique experience, consider staying at this glamping site just outside of the park near Mount Rushmore. They offer luxurious tent accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Next Destination	Mount Rushmore & Devils Tower
Drive Time	1.5 hours (Directions) & 2.5 hours (Directions)

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, United States

Stop 7: Mouth Rushmore

Next, let’s drive towards one of the United States most famous national monument’s Mount Rushmore located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, this iconic sculpture features the heads of former American presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

Visitors can explore the monument’s history and significance at the visitor center or take a walk along the Presidential Trail to get an up-close view of the faces carved into the mountain.

I recommend getting there early as it gets extremely busy throughout the day. It is free to visit the monument, however, at the time of writing, parking costs $5. But… let’s be honest, is any US road trip really complete without seeing it?

In addition to Mount Rushmore itself, the surrounding area also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Also, nearby Mount Rushmore lies the Crazy Horse memorial. While this is a popular site among tourists. I’d advise giving it a skip, I personally didn’t really get the hype and it is unfinished to this day.

Instead continue along the black hills to see what you might find. This is a stunning part of the US with scenic stop offs, waterfalls and picnic spots!

Where to stay in the Black Hills Region

Camping Option: Devils Tower KOA (Where I stayed) – Located just 9 miles from Devils Tower, this campground offers stunning views of the tower and a fun atmosphere with activities like movie nights and ice cream socials.

Budget Friendly Option: Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins – Situated near Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, this budget-friendly lodging offers a variety of accommodations including cabins and luxury suites.

Great Location: Ramada by Wyndham Keystone – Located in the heart of Keystone, this hotel is just minutes away from Mount Rushmore and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities.

Next Destination	Cody, Wyoming
Drive Time	5 hours (Directions)

Devils Tower National Monument with a highway in Wyoming

Stop 8: Devils Tower & Cody

Following spending the day exploring the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore, I advise staying near Devils Tower.

This peculiar rock formation is considered sacred by many Native American tribes and offers a beautiful backdrop for camping and hiking.

For the adventurous, you can also try your hand at rock climbing (although I advise alongside professional guides)!

You can walk around the tower, it takes around an hour to complete the looped trail and isn’t too strenuous, but if you want a more challenging hike, there are several trails to choose from that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Don’t forget to bring your camera for some amazing photo opportunities! After spending time at Devils Tower, continue on to Cody, Wyoming.

Cody is a charming town, known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World” and home to the renowned Buffalo Bill Center of the West. This museum, named after famous showman and buffalo hunter Buffalo Bill Cody, offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the American West.

In addition to the museum, there are also nightly rodeos (personally I’m not a big fan of these) during the summer months that showcase traditional cowboy skills like bull riding and barrel racing.

Cody is the gateway town to YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK one of the highlights of the whole trip. So head to bed early and start getting excited for Yellowstone.

*The weather changed significantly once we reached Cody, make sure to your review my road trip packing list to ensure you have packed the right things*

Where to stay in Cody

Camping Option: Cody KOA campsite – Situated on the outskirts of Cody, this campsite offers a variety of amenities including Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a swimming pool. It’s also just a short drive away from popular attractions such as Yellowstone National Park and Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

B&B Option: Robins Nest Bed & Breakfast – This quaint bed and breakfast offer cozy rooms with mountain views and a delicious homemade breakfast each morning. It’s also conveniently located near downtown Cody, where you can find a variety of shops and restaurants.

High End Option: Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites – For a luxurious stay in Cody, look no further than this modern hotel. It boasts spacious rooms with high-end amenities, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a fitness center.

Next Destination	Yellowstone, Wyoming
Drive Time	1-hour beautiful drive (Directions)

Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 9: Yellowstone National Park

Next is one of the most iconic stops on this trip, and that is none other than Yellowstone National Park. Did you know that it was one of worlds FIRST ever National Parks.

The landscapes here are so unique and diverse that they are sure to take your breath away. The park is home to the renowned Old Faithful Geyser, which offers a dramatic spectacle of nature’s power, regularly spouting steaming water up to 180 feet in the air.

Visitors can also explore the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States, known for its striking, rainbow-like coloration.

The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, providing the chance to spot grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison and elk.

For the adventurous, the park offers more than 900 miles of hiking trails traversing forests, mountains, and valleys. If you don’t mind waking up early in the morning I highly recommend watching the sunrise at the West Thumb Geyser Basin. It is a truly unique experience to see! Then throughout the day pay a visit to Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano, Artist Point, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Calcite Springs Lookout and Mammoth Hot Springs.

Where to stay in Yellowstone

Camping Option: Grant Village Campground (Where I Stayed) – Set in a beautiful wooded area with access to the picturesque Lake Yellowstone, this campground offers a true outdoor experience.

Mid Range Option: Yellowstone Lodge – Located just outside the park’s West entrance, this lodge offers rustic accommodation with modern amenities, including an indoor pool and hot tub.

Cabin Option: The Eagle Ridge Ranch Cabins are for a more secluded and luxurious stay, these cabins offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and access to various outdoor activities such as horseback riding and fly fishing.

Next Destination	Grand Teton National Park
Drive Time	Only 9 Minutes! (Directions)

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Stop 10: Grand Teton National Park & Jackson, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park is often overshadowed by it’s famous neighbour Yellowstone. And this may be a little bit of a confrontational opinion, but I much prefer Grand Teton to Yellowstone.

It’s not in terms of beauty, both parks have their fair share if incredible landscapes but the crowd levels in Grand Teton makes it a much more enjoyable place to visit.

I recommend first visiting String Lake, take some time to walk around the looped trail, taking in the incredible landscapes as you explore.

And if you are brave enough you can hop in the lake at the end for a freezing cold swim

Following a morning at String, I recommend making your way to Jenny Lake, it offers some breathtaking hiking opportunities, a shuttle boat and a stunning lakeside view.

Finshing the day at Jackson hole Wyoming, a cute cow boy town on the edge of Grand Teton National Park. Here, they have regular ‘cow boy shootouts’ a street performance that is a true American experience.

If you are a little bit of an adrenaline junkie I recommend going white water rafting down Snake River, the rapids are perfect for beginners and experienced rafters alike, providing a thrilling adventure while also offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Where to stay in Grand Teton/JacksonHole

Budget Friendly Option: Jackson Hole KOA Campsite (Where I stayed) – located just 25 miles from the entrance of Grand Teton National Park, this campsite offers affordable cabin and tent options for a rustic yet comfortable stay. It also has amenities such as a pool, and even a mini-golf course.

Mid Range Option: 49’er Inn & Suites – located in the heart of Jackson Hole, this hotel offers cozy rooms with mountain views and is within walking distance to restaurants and shops.

High End Option: Snow King Resort – located at the base of Snow King Mountain, this resort offers luxurious rooms and amenities including spa bathtubs, swimming pool and fine dining options.

Luxury Option: SpringHill Suites – for a truly luxurious experience, consider staying at this hotel which offers spacious and elegant rooms with breathtaking views of the Grand Tetons. It also has a pool, fitness center, and is nearby many restaurants.

Next Destination	Shoshone Falls Park, Idaho
Drive Time	4 hours (Directions)

Shoshone Falls Park, Idaho

Stop 11: Twin Falls and Nevada Dessert

The next few stops are very much places that will allow you to break up the drive. While it may be tempting to reach Lake Tahoe as quick as possible I’d advise avoiding this.

You will be on the road for over 2 weeks at these stage and tiredness will well a truly start to kick in.

Besides, there are plenty of spots to stop by on route, one of my favourites being, Twin Falls (photographed) in Idaho. This is a great spot to stop to stretch the legs and admire the views.

On my trip we camped in the Nevada Dessert, although this was just a place to rest for the night, it ended up being a great stop thanks to the clear starry night.

Where to stay in Grand Teton: South Fork State Recreation campsite

Next Destination	Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Drive Time	5 hours (Directions)

Stop 12: Lake Tahoe

Tahoe is a destination that I fell in LOVE with, I didn’t want to leave. The pristine lake, natural landscapes and soaring mountains are to die for.

The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of activities across all seasons.

However, you will more than likely visit in the warmer months, so get ready enjoy boating, water sports, swimming, and hiking.

The lake is also how to some vibrant food spots and lively entertainment.

One popular spot is the Heavenly Village, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants and nightlife options.

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe

Budget Option: Basecamp Tahoe City – For the budget-conscious traveller, Basecamp Tahoe City provides a perfect mix of comfort and affordability. With its rustic decor and cozy atmosphere, guests will feel a strong connection to the lake’s natural beauty. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, and easy access to local attractions.

Mid-range Option: Deerfield Lodge at Heavenly – Situated close to Heavenly Village, Deerfield Lodge offers spacious rooms and beautiful garden views. The Lodge also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a fireplace in the lobby, and is pet-friendly.

Luxury Option: The Landing Resort and Spa – For those seeking luxury, The Landing Resort and Spa offers an exquisite experience with its lakefront suites, gourmet dining, and full-service spa. The resort’s prime location offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe, taking your vacation to a whole new level.

Next Destination	Yosemite National Park
Drive Time	Just over 3 hours (Directions)

Yosemite National Park, California

Stop 13: Yosemite National Park

A visit to Yosemite National park is most definitely something that should be high on your bucket list.

The views and scenic drives through the park are outstanding. Yosemite stole my heart and I don’t want it back.

On the drive into Yosemite be sure to stop by Tenaya Lake for a swim. Just a little of prior warning. IT’S FREEEEEZZZINNNG!! But hey… How many people can say they swam at Yosemite National Park? Not many. Tenaya Lake is also a great place to stop and have a picnic. Lunch with a view <3

Next on the road trip agenda is Sequoia National Park. The tree’s in the park are over 2000 years old and the highest tree soars at 275 feet tall. It was honestly super cool to see.

On the second day in Yosemite, I’d advise exploring one of the many possible hiking trails. I hiked up to Nevada Falls, on the mist trailhead. This hike is BEAUTIFUL <3 My favourite part was the Emerald Pool as it offered fantastic views of El Captain.

After a long day of hiking, reward yourself with some well-deserved food. There are many fast food options down in the main valley. Once your tummy is full, get ready to see Yosemite’s most famous viewpoint, Tunnel View. The Phenomenal views of El Capitan and the Half Dome, where used by Apple for the Yosemite OS X screensaver. Check out my Yosemite Itinerary for a more detailed guide.

One of my favourite things about this coast to coast road trip was having the opportunity to visit some of the US most breathtaking national parks. It made me fall in love with the counties natural beauty. If you have more time why not combine this road trip with a west coast National Parks road trip.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Budget Friendly Option: Yosemite Lakes Thousand Trails Preserve – Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, this budget-friendly option offers various accommodation options such as cabins, RV sites, and camping grounds. With access to hiking trails and scenic views of the Tuolumne River, this preserve is perfect for nature lovers on a budget.

Lodge Option: Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite – This rustic lodge offers comfortable cabins and glamping tents for a cozy stay in the heart of Yosemite. The lodge also has an on-site restaurant and bar, and swimming pool.

Cottage Option: Homestead Cottages – Situated in a quiet and secluded area, these charming cottages offer a tranquil stay with breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley.

Great Deal Option: Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite – With spacious rooms and suites, a range of dining options, and various on-site activities, Tenaya Lodge offers a great value for your stay at Yosemite. Located just minutes away from the entrance to Yosemite National Park, this lodge is perfect for families and groups.

Next Destination	San Francisco
Drive Time	5 hours (Directions)

San Francisco Bay

Stop 14: San Francisco

The next stop on of US road trip is the wonderful city of San Francisco.

Famous for it’s Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Prison and steep hills lined with colourful Victorian houses, this city has something for everyone.

Spend some time to truly admire the streets, visit the iconic Lombard Street, the worlds most crooked street, or take in the views from the Coit Tower.

For a more relaxed experience, head to the Golden Gate Park for a picnic or take a stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden.

In the evening, make sure to catch the sunset at Pier 39 and enjoy some delicious seafood from one of its many restaurants.

Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars and explore different parts of the city. Whatever you choose to do, San Francisco is sure to leave a lasting impression on your road trip.

Where to stay in San Francisco

HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel (the one I stayed in): This hostel is centrally located near Union Square, with easy access to public transportation and many of the city’s top attractions. It offers clean and comfortable dorm rooms as well as private rooms, making it suitable for both solo travellers and groups.

For travellers with a higher budget, the Fairmont San Francisco presents an unrivaled luxurious experience. Situated atop Nob Hill, it provides breathtaking views of the city and the bay. The hotel boasts of grandeur, with lavishly decorated rooms and top-notch amenities, including a choice of fine dining restaurants on-site.

For a boutique, high-end experience, consider the 1 Hotel San Francisco located in the bustling heart of downtown, this eco-friendly hotel showcases modern and sustainable design. It offers spacious rooms with big bright windows, providing stunning views of the city skyline. Guests can also indulge in locally sourced and organic cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Next Destination	California Coast (Big Sur)
Drive Time	3/6 hours (Directions)

Big Sur, California

Day 23: The California Coastal Route

The California Coastal Route should undoubtedly make it to your itinerary. This drive is iconic, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, charming seaside towns, and numerous attractions.

The scenry is like something out of a movie backdrop with soaring cliffs, crashing waves, and hidden beaches waiting to be explored.

Stop in the quaint town of Monterey and visit Cannery Row, known for its old sardine canning factories turned into shops and restaurants.

Further south, you’ll find Big Sur, a rugged stretch of coastline with panoramic views of the ocean.

The route ends in Santa Barbara, known for its Spanish architecture and beautiful beaches, however, we will stop for the night near the town of Santa Margarita.

Where to camp on the California Coast: Santa Margarita KOA

Next Destination	Los Angles, California
Drive Time	3.5 hours (Directions)

Santa Monica, California

Final Stop: Los Angeles California

Mission complete, we have made it to the end of our New York to California road trip! And now it is time to celbrate.

There is so much to see and do in and around the LA area, from exploring the stunning seaside towns of Santa Monica and Venice.

Taking a trip into Hollywood to see where all the a list stars live, walk down the walk of fame and take a snap of the famous sign.

Explore the film sets in Burbank, or go back stage at Universal Studios.

Or, take a magical trip to Disneyland California, a once in a lifetime experience.

Where to stay in Santa Monica

I recommend staying in Santa Monica it is the nicest place in this area and it is nice to have some coastal views.

Budget: Santa Monica Hostel by PodShare, is a great option for backpackers and budget travellers with its communal living space and affordable rates.

Mid-range: Ocean View Hotel, located right by Santa Monica beach, offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the ocean.

Luxury: Shutters on the Beach, a luxurious beachfront hotel that boasts elegant rooms, fine dining restaurants, and spa services. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

California to New York Road Trip: Self-Drive VS Organised Tour

Planning a road trip from New York to Los Angeles is by no means, an easy task. There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration before embarking on the epic journey. And one of those is, to DIY it or opt for an organised tour.

So, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each!

The pro’s of going with an organised tour

Organised tours usually take care of all the planning and logistics so you can sit back and relax.

You’ll have a knowledgeable guide who can provide insight into the history, culture, and landmarks along the way.

Activities and accommodations are typically included in the package price, making budgeting easier.

Traveling with a group can be a great way to meet new people and make friends along the way.

Safety and security are often top priorities for tour companies, giving travellers peace of mind.

The cons of going with an organised tour

Often more expensive than a self-drive trip, as you’re paying for convenience and added services.

Lack of flexibility in terms of itinerary and activities. You’ll have to stick to the pre-planned schedule.

Limited independence and freedom, as you’ll be following a set route and schedule.

You may be traveling with people who have different interests or travel styles, leading to potential conflicts.

I personally went with an organised tour, it was an INCREDIBLE experience, one I will never forget. I met some of the most amazing people, visited places I could have only dreamed of and learned so much about each destination.

If you too choose to book a pre-organized road trip, you can check out companies like GA Adventures or the Travel Department to find a tour that suits your needs.

However, while I am happy I decided to do a tour, now, five years later I would definitely opt into doing a DIY trip. For starters, I am older and a more experienced traveller AND one thing I didn’t like about the tour was the lack of freedom. I would have much sooner spent 2/3 days more in the likes of Yosemite or Yellowstone. And on that note, let’s take a look at…

The pro’s self drive road trip

Offers a high level of flexibility and independence, as you can choose your own itinerary and modify it along the way.

You have complete control over your budget, as you’re not tied to pre-booked activities or accommodation.

Ability to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and make spontaneous stops that are not part of a tour package.

Perfect for solo travelers or those who prefer a more private and intimate experience.

The cons of a self drive road trip

Requires careful planning and research to ensure all aspects of the trip are taken care of, such as car rental, accommodations, and activities.

Can be more stressful and tiring as you have to navigate unfamiliar roads and deal with unexpected situations on your own.

May end up being more expensive than a pre-organized tour, as you have to cover all expenses on your own.

Safety concerns may arise, especially when traveling in remote areas with limited cell phone coverage.

New York to California Road Trip FAQ

Ok, so we are coming to the end of our New York to California road trip itinerary but I first wanted to answer some frequesntly asked questions that will hopefully help you with your planning.

How long does a New York to Los Angeles Road Trip take?

If you drive non-stop from New York City to Los Angeles, it will take approximately 41 hours. However, this does not account for stops for gas, food, restrooms, or rest.

The total distance between the two places is 2,789 miles. If your goal is to get there quickly, it may be better to book a flight, as it will be both faster and cheaper. You can compare flight prices on Skyscanner.

The minimum amount of time it will take to complete this particular itinerary is 3 weeks, however, if you have the additional days I recommend spending 4/5 weeks exploring these destinations.

California to New York Road Trip

How much should I budget for a New York to Los Angeles Road Trip?

It’s difficult to give a precise budget for a road trip from Los Angeles to New York, as it depends on individual circumstances. On my own road trip, I spent around $3,500 in total.

However, I booked a pre-arranged budget tour, which included most food, accommodation, some activities, and gas.

The cost of a road trip in the US can range from $160 to $300 per day, depending on your preferences.

To save money, you can camp or stay in hostels, make your own food, and limit your alcohol consumption.

What should I pack for a NYC to California Road Trip?

Packing for a road trip is never an easy task, that is why I have created this in-depth packing guide to ensure you don’t forget anything. I will however list the essentials down below.

Waterproof Jacket
Hiking Boots (<- my favourite brand)
A Day Bag (<- Also my favourite)
A torch/Headlight (for hiking)
Travel First Aid Kit
Water Bottle (The Tap Water is Drinkable)
Camera (Essential)
A Rucksack (Women/Men)

What is the best time of year to do a New York to LA road trip?

I would advise doing this particular road trip in the Spring/Summer months, the weather will be much nicer at this time of year meaning your will not have any difficulties driving on higher grounds. Yes, in the summer key locations will be busy and warm but snow and ice will make it considerably difficult to complete this full route.

Drive Timeline for a New York to Los Angeles Road Trip

Destinations	Drive Time	Google Maps Link
New York to Niagara Falls	6/7 hours	Directions
Niagara Falls to Sandusky Ohio	4.5 hours	Directions
Sandusky Ohio to Shipshewana	3 hours	Directions
Shipshewana to Chicago, Illinois	2.5 hours	Directions
Chicago to Lake Okoboji, Iowa	7.5 hours	Directions
Lake Okoboji to Badlands	5 hours	Directions
Badlands to Mount Rushmore	1.5 hours	Directions
Mount Rushmore to Devils Tower	2.5 hours	Directions
Devils Tower to Cody, Wyoming	5 hours	Directions
Cody to Yellowstone	1 hour	Directions
Yellowstone to Grand Tetons	9 minutes	Directions
Grand Teton to Jackson	24 minutes	Directions
Jackson to Shoshone Falls Park	4 hours	Directions
Shoshone Falls to Nevada Dessert	5 hours	Directions
Nevada Dessert to South Lake Tahoe	3 hours	Directions
Tahoe to Yosemite	3 hours	Directions
Yosemite to San Fran	5 hours	Directions
San Fran to Big Sur	3/6 hours	Directions
Big Sur to Los Angeles	3.5 hours	Directions

*Check out a full video trailer of my New York to Los Angeles Road Trip*

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you purchase anything through those links I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. links. That means if you purchase anything through those links I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post New York to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary: National Parks, Beautiful Hikes & Iconic appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

Off the beaten path NYC: Escape the crowds with 15+ Hidden Gems in New York

Laura — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 21:45:00 +0000

New York is one of the most iconic cities in the World, attracting over 60 million tourists each year. All hoping to catch a glimpse of the towering skyscrapers witness an outstanding performance at a top Broadway show or shop till they drop at 5th Avenue. It’s common for tourists to stick to the stereotypical NYC Itinerary, quickly forgetting about the amazing off the beaten path NYC attractions just waiting to be explored.

There is so much more to New York than just ‘Manhattan’ yet visitors rarely venture further afield. In today post we will do just that, venture a little bit out of the top things to do in New York City. So get ready for astonishing views, a secret cable car ride and even an opportunity to see Jimmy Fallon live on stage because below are the top New York Off the Beaten Path attractions.

New York Off the Beaten Path Locations: Exchange Place, New Jersey

TRAVEL TOOLS I USE ON EVERY TRIP

Let’s Make Travel Planning Easy

AVOID HIGH ROAMING CHARGES

Avoid expensive roaming charges by using an eSIM. Airalo works in 200+ countries and takes about two minutes to install before your trip. Use code IRELAND10 for 10% off.

DON’T SKIP INSURANCE!!

Travel insurance is one thing you never want to skip!

Thankfully, VisitorsCoverage is great for comparing affordable, trusted insurance plans to find one that actually suits your needs.

DISCOVER UNIQUE LOCAL EXPERIENCES

I always use platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator to find fun and exciting things to do in each destionation. From walking tours, food experiences, and unique activities most people miss.

FIND BUDGET FRIENDLY PLACES TO STAY

If you’re travelling on a budget or hoping to meet other travellers along the way, Hostelworld is great for finding social hostels and community focused stays around the world.
For hotels, apartments, and private rooms, Booking.com is usually the easiest place to compare prices and locations in one place.

AVOID OVERPAYING FOR CAR RENTALS

Even if you’re just renting for a day trip, DiscoverCars is one of the easiest tools for comparing prices across multiple rental compa

Top 5 Off the Beaten Path NYC Activities

I wanted to kick start this list with 5 off the beaten path NYC activities, all of which should be included in your New York Itinerary.

Roosevelt Island, Manhattan, New York

1) Roosevelt Island, Manhattan, New York

Who knew there was a cable car running through New York City? I certainly didn’t.

Riding a cable car is one of my favourites off the beaten path things to do in NYC.

The moment I found out about the Roosevelt Island Cable Car I quickly began to research ways to ride it.

It’s actually pretty simple. The cable car station is located on east 60th street, 2nd avenue. A short walk from Central Park. The cable car ride is valid with the subway card and costs $4.50 for a return journey.

The cable car leaves you at Roosevelt Island, a small skinny Island located between Manhattan and Queens, with Manhattan on the west and Queens on the east.

Points of interests include four freedom park, a small pox’s hospital ruins, the Blackwell island lighthouse and the stunning views of Manhattan. Visitors have the option to walk around the Island or make use of the free shuttle bus to enjoy the views and explore. It is a really fun and unique thing to do in New York City.

2) Become an Audience Member of a New TV Show

Who knew that it is 100% completely FREE to go see a live taping of some of the world’s most popular TV show? Yes, FREE. You just have to be lucky enough to secure tickets.

I was a lucky studio audience member of a New York City TV Show. Not once, but… TWICE. That’s right, on two occasions I was able sit in on a live television taping.

The first being, Live with Kelly. This one was actually a complete accident. I initially had tickets to ‘the chew’ but due to NYC traffic, I missed the taping. Well, lucky for me, they were allowing people walking by to attend the live with Kelly show. Now, this was in January, So, I’d imagine in the peak season tickets would need to be reserved online.

But… the second show tapping I saw had me fangirling for days. I got tickets to JIMMY FALLON. Not only did I get tickets to Jimmy Fallon, but Blake Lively was the guest star of the show I attended. As a massive Gossip Girl fan, it was safe to say, my life was complete.

If you would like more information on getting FREE tickets to popular New York TV shows, be sure to check out my guide: Jimmy Fallon & Live with Kelly Tickets.

New York Heli Flight ©

3) Take a Helicopter Flight over New York City

Contribution by Vivkli from Vicki Viaja

Without a doubt, New York City is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With such a fantastic city, which grows so high, it is worth seeing the city from an entirely new angle.

Of course, you can go to one of the observation decks, but you won’t be able to see the whole city from there—the solution: a helicopter flight along the Manhattan skyline.

The flight usually starts just outside the city (e.g., from New Jersey’s Linden Airport). It offers you an absolutely unique view of the Manhattan skyline, the likes of which you’ve certainly never seen before.

Before you go, of course, you’ll get a safety briefing. This is especially useful if this is your first helicopter flight. The flight goes along the Statue of Liberty, and then you circle Manhattan.

Depending on the provider, you can choose between a closed model or one with open doors. If you are afraid of heights, you should definitely select the closed model. You can take one of those typical photos of you dangling your feet above the skyline with the open version.

Tip: If you purchase a New York Tourist pass, you might even get a significant discount on your flight.

NYC HELICOPTER TOUR

New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights
Live Commentary
Floor to Ceiling Windows
Incredible Views

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Glamping at Governor’s Island

4) Glamping at Governor’s Island

Contribution by Lindsay from The Purposely Lost

One of the most unusual things to do in New York City is to go glamping on Governor’s Island.

Just off the coast of Lower Manhattan, Governor’s Island was used for United States military operations for centuries through the 1990s.

Since then, it has been transformed into a public park for New Yorkers to visit in the warmer months. Although covered with various parks and green spaces on the island, Governor’s Island is not a place where you could stay overnight–until now.

Collective Retreats has opened a luxury camping experience, where you have the opportunity to sleep in a luxury tent, with views of Lower Manhattan, Jersey City, and the Statue of Liberty right outside your front “door.”

You might even see some stars since you’re just far enough away from the city’s bright lights.

Collective Retreats also has a restaurant on-site called Fire & Water at Three Peaks Lodge. With a unique, chef-designed menu, it serves brunch on the weekends and lunch and dinner every day. If you decide to make a reservation for dinner, they have a private boat that will pick you up in Manhattan and bring you to the retreat.

GLAMPING IN NYC

Collective Governors Island
Stunning Views
Peaceful Stay
Private Glamp Hut

Book Your Stay

Exchange Place, Jersey City, New Jersey

5) Exchange Place, Jersey City, New Jersey

What many people don’t realise, that while you can get some incredible views of the New York Skyline from the likes of the Empire State Building or the Rockefeller Centre, the most impressive view is actually FREE.

For this next stop on our Hidden Gems in New York list will lead us to New Jersey.

The Exchange Place is pretty easy to get too, Path trains run directly from Westfield Shopping Centre at the world trade centre, costing just $2.75 for a single journey.

It’s possibly my favourite spot to view the Manhattan Skyline. It’s not too crowded, and weirdly peaceful (at times) depending on how many other people decide to visit.

Exchange Place is located in the centre of Downtown New Jersey and is often referred to as “Wall Street West” as many financial companies have set up there. It is a beautiful spot to watch the city lights glisten at night time or admire the sunset.

Need a sim card plan while in New York? Then I recommend checking out Airalo, an eSim company that offers affordable data plans with a click of a button. I used them every time I am in the US and the service is always amazing.

Noteworthy NYC Hidden Gems for your Bucket List

Next, is some off the beaten path places in New York that I think you should add to you NYC Bucket List. Some of these you may never have heard of, so get your note pads ready.

Washington Street, Brooklyn, New York, USA

6) Washington Street, Brooklyn, New York

The next stop on our New York off the beaten path locations brings us to the streets of Dumbo.

Dumbo is famous for it’s Flea Market, the free weekly concert series and well, the view of Manhattan.

One street that caught my eye and lead to many of my Instagram followers asking ‘Is that photoshopped’ was Washington Street. While strolling by the street I noticed the Manhattan Bridge inlines perfectly with the break in the buildings.

As I walked further down the street, I began to notice that the Empire State Building perfectly inlines with the structure of the Manhattan Bridge, supplying the perfect picture opportunity.

Now, this street isn’t completely free of tourists, as many flocks here to get an insta worthy pic with the Manhattan bridge. I did, however, notice, that most were unaware of the Empire States and the Manhattan Bridges alignment. To capture this picture it is all about the camera angle. Or, Just pretend your a 5ft 2 woman because I could see it from eye level

Although, this little photo spot is starting to become widely popular in the Instagram world. At this moment and time, it still remains one of the best New York secret spots.

(Washington Street on Google Maps)

The New York Transit Museum

7) The New York Transit Museum

Contribution by Rachel from Rachels Ruminations

You’re very likely to take the subway at some point on your visit to New York City, but did you ever wonder how it got to be the vast system that it is today?

If so, check out the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn.

Housed – appropriately – in a disused 1930s-era subway station, the Transit Museum tells all about how the system was built and developed and what it was like to work on the subways and buses.

It also displays things like old change dispensers and turnstiles. The highlights, though, are the vintage subway cars, parked along with the platform as if they’re about to leave the station.

The cars date from the beginning of the 1900s to the 1970s. Visitors are welcome to enter them, and each design is slightly different from the one before: whether it was built of wood or metal or a combination, the style of the seats and upholstery, the colour scheme, and so on.

The ads inside the train cars are fascinating as well. They’re posted on walls or on a strip of space above the seats just like in modern-day subway cars and they match the era of the car they’re in. So, for example, in a subway car that saw service during World War II, ads promote things like war bonds.

The New York Transit Museum is well worth the subway ride over to Brooklyn. You can read more about the museum at Rachel’s Ruminations.

8) Fraunces Tavern

Contribution by Megan from Your Brooklyn Guide

One of the best hidden gems in New York City for history lovers is Fraunces Tavern located in the historic financial district in Lower Manhattan.

Besides being a fascinating point of interest history-wise, this spot is also a fantastic restaurant and place to grab a drink.

Fraunces Tavern is the oldest tavern in New York City and one of the oldest in the entire country located at 54 Pearl Street.

This location is steps away from Stone Street which is the oldest area in NYC as well that being one of the oldest streets in New York City lined with 17th-century buildings in what was the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam.

The history of Fraunces Tavern that visitors find most fascinating is its ties to the Revolutionary War, in particular, General George Washington who would go on to be our first President of the United States.

This tavern served as the headquarters for George Washington and was where he strategized his moves during the Revolutionary War.

This is also the watering hole that Alexander Hamilton was last seen alive before his ill-fated duel with Aaron Burr. Some historians argue that this tavern could be the oldest surviving building in Manhattan too! Although, some argue that since it was partially rebuilt after fires that it’s not.

This historic landmark is on both the New York Freedom Trail as well as the American Whiskey Trail. Stay and enjoy a meal and a drink Besides being a fully functioning restaurant and tavern, there’s also a full museum here as well if you want to learn more about the historic events and figures that frequented this place.

One World Trade Centre, New York, USA

9) Liberty Park, Manhattan, New York

For the next NYC off the beaten path location let’s jump on over to the financial district, to one of New York’s newest parks. The Liberty park is described as an ‘acre-long elevated oasis overlooking the World Trade Center’.

On a summers day, the newly opened park is the perfect place for those to enjoy some lunch, while admiring the sky-scraping buildings of the financial district. The park is a true New York Hidden Gem, it was designed to allow people to relax and reflect on the tragedy of 9/11.

Now, I must admit, I struggled to initially find the elevated gardens so I have attached its location on Google Maps. Hopefully, that will make things easier for you on your visit to NYC.

Non Touristy Things to do in NYC

Next, let’s take a look at some non touristy things to do in NYC, I’m talking less crowded parks, attractions and spaces.

Liberty State Park, New Jersey

10) Liberty State Park, New Jersey

Next on our NYC off the beaten path list is none other than Liberty State Park.

Although the park is in the state of New Jersey, Liberty State Park is the perfect place to escape the city but still have that city view.

It is the only place outside New York that offers boat trips to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. In fact, passengers can board the Statue Cruises from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan and stop off at Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and Liberty State Park all in the one ticket. of

Other points of interest at Liberty State Park include the empty sky memorial for 9/11, the old New Jersey railroad terminal and in the evening time, it’s a popular spot to watch the sunset.

Sunset Time Lapse, Liberty State Park, New Jersey

Exchange Place, New Jersey

11) Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York

This is my favourite places to enjoy some peace and quiet.

Yes, that’s right. Who knew that it was possible to find a ‘quiet spot’ among the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Brooklyn bridge park is home to an astonishing views of the iconic New York Skyscrapers, the Statue of Liberty and of course the beautiful Brooklyn Bridge.

But… The park’s fun does not stop there, in the summer months free Kayak sessions are offered from the Hudson River, Pier 4 to be exact.

It is also common to see fitness classes being held on the pier 2 area of the park, they have it all from Yoga to Zumba. The park even has its own Environmental Education Centre.

Even if you don’t want to take part in any activities, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great place to sit back and enjoy the surroundings while escaping the loud atmosphere of the city.

(Brooklyn Bridge Park on Google Maps)

Pebbles Beach, Brooklyn, New York

12) Empire Fulton Ferry Park, Brooklyn, New York

Ok, so let’s continue the theme of ‘quiet spots in New York’ and take a short walk over to Empire Fulton Ferry Park.

I think it’s ironic because the view of the Brooklyn Bridge is so much better from this park. Walkers can literally get up close and personal with the bridge without even having to be on it.

I personally fell in love with this park, just because of the endless photo opportunities. The Brooklyn Bridge looks fantastic from every angle. And then once you turn slightly to the right, you are presented with a phenomenal view of the great Manhattan Bridge.

To be honest it is easy to spend hours in this park taking in the views or sunbathing in the warm summer sun.

Points of interest in the Empire Fulton Ferry Park include the Empire Fulton Ferry Lawn, Jane’s Carousel and an interpretive satellite museum of Brooklyn Historical Society.

(Empire Fulton Ferry Park on Google Maps)

Unusual & Unique Things to do in NYC

Finally, let’s take a look at some attractions in New York that are a bit on the peculiar side, things you may not expect to find in the iconic city.

5th avenue and Broadway Street Signs purchased stock photography from Deposit Photos

13) Play a Game of Accomplice in New York

Contribution by Nicole Go Far Grow Close

If you are looking for a fun and exciting thing to do in New York, then consider purchasing a ticket to the Accomplice Show.

The Accomplice is a unique interactive theatre experience that takes place on the streets of New York City, allowing you to explore different areas, try different restaurants, and meet some very interesting people.

The game begins with a phone call the day before purchasing your tickets. You receive instructions from the “Wise Guy” about where you should meet making you feel like you have been thrown into a scene from a Godfather movie.

The following day it is time to meet at the designated meeting point along with a few other participants. Thereafter, you spend the next three hours solving clues and figuring out your next destination all the while collecting items along the way. You encounter at least 6 actors in character and walk around a minimum of 5 distinct parts of town. Every so often you get delicious food, beer and wine, at an amazing restaurant or bar that you would never have discovered if it wasn’t for the experience.

The game ends with a discovery of “who did it”. The whole experience is a complete blast.

Garden of the Cloisters Museum in New York Purchased Stock from Deposit Photos

14) Cloisters branch of the Metropolitan Museum

Contribution by Kelly of Travel New York Now

“One of my favourite NYC Off the Beaten Path activities is the Cloisters branch of the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is perched high on a hill in Fort Tyron Park and offers visitors stunning views of the Hudson River below. It also features stunning, Moorish-style architecture that makes the structure look more like a castle than a museum.

However, it really is a museum that was first built in 1917 by John D. Rockefeller to house an overflow of art from the MET.

As a result, the interior features an eclectic collection of art that includes paintings, tapestries, frescoes, and more.

Although, the real highlight of any visit here is a stop at The Hunt of the Unicorn – a stunning tapestry from the 16th century that is one of the museum’s true masterpieces. And then afterwards, take some time to sit and admire the interior courtyard with its fabulous archways and terracotta roofs.

And while admission used to be “pay what you wish”, that option is currently only available to residents of NY, NJ, and PA who present a valid form of ID. Everyone else must pay $25 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for children (kids 12 and under are free).

Also, because this is a true hidden gem, it’s a bit out of the way. Therefore, to get here, you’ll have to take the A train all the way to the Bronx and get off at Dyckman Street station.”

Hamilton’s Grave © History Fan Girl

15) Visit Hamilton’s Grave

Contribution by Stephanie from History Fan Girl

One of my favourite hidden gems in NYC is the gravesite of Alexander Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton, known affectionately and musically as Eliza.

The graves are in the cemetery at Trinity Church, which is referenced in the last song of the musical Hamilton. Visitors come by to pay their respect, and the site has become more popular in the last few years because of the song and the musical.

Other notable figures in the Trinity Church cemetery include other famous contemporary figures from the show Angelica Schuyler, Hercules Mulligan, and Hamilton’s son Phillip.

A cemetery in this part of the city is quite unusual, speaking to the church’s age stretching back to some of the earliest days of the city.

It is closed to new burial sites since there was a law passed in the city in 1823 making burial sites below Canal Street illegal. While here, make sure to go inside and see the beautiful interior of the church. Nearby attractions include Wall Street and Battery Park.

If you decide to visit the Statue of Liberty, this is a great stop before or after leaving for your tour. If you are in town on a long weekend in New York City, make sure to set aside an hour to visit this lovely and unique corner of the city!

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2 Days in San Francisco: Visit all the Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Laura — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:15:00 +0000

San Francisco is a must on anyone’s US Bucket List, featuring some of America’s most iconic landmarks and historic sites, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Lombard Street. There is so much to see and do in San Francisco and I’d be lying if I told you it is possible to ‘see it all’ in just 48 hours. However, if 2 days in San Francisco is all you have, do not fret, because this San Francisco Itinerary will walk you through the in’s and outs of the iconic city.

My first trip to the bustling city was back in 2011, I spent 5 days exploring all of what San Fran has to offer. I was 16 years old and in awe at the fact that I had made it to the set of ‘that’s so Raven’. Fast forward to 2018, on my road trip from the east to the west coast of America, I found myself in San Francisco once again. This time was different, I began to appreciate the history and importance of this great US city. I walked the city at a slower pace and really enjoyed the ‘chilled vibe’. Today’s itinerary will ultimately allow you to visit the top see attractions in San Franciscos in 2 days! Let’s dive in.

San Francisco Itinerary: San Francisco Itinerary: Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, USA

2 Days in San Francisco: Visit all the Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

My first visit to San Francisco was with my family, we opted into purchasing a ticket for the hop on hop off bus tour. Now, I do see the benefit of these bus tours when time is limited. However, I quickly learned that San Francisco is a very walkable city and a bus tour is most defiantly not needed.

So, if you are willing to walk, I’d suggest doing so. For starters it’s a budget-friendly approach, it’s better for the environment and it’s overall good for your health Just be prepared to stumble up a hill or two as you stroll.

Day 1: A Self Guided Walking Tour

Day 1 of our weekend in San Francisco is all about ticking off those major city attractions. We will pay a visit to the famous Golden Gate Bridge, the Place of Fine Art, Lombard Street, Hyde Street Pier, Fishermans Wharf and even take a sunset Cruise.

Walking the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA

1. Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge

You see it in all the pictures, it’s featured in all the movies and it’s talked about in all the travel brochures, the Golden Gate Bridge is the most iconic landmark in all of San Francisco. Therefore, no visit to San Fran is complete without walking across the famous bridge.

I’d recommend doing this first thing in the morning to avoid high crowd levels and in hope for some nicer weather as San Francisco is known for having some rather cloudy and windy days.

A one way walk across the bridge can take anywhere from 25 minutes to an hour. It really depends on how many pictures you take along the way. Depending on how you arrive at the bridges starting point you may have to walk back across to collect your car.

Golden Gate Tip: Watch out for cyclists, make sure you stay on the pedestrian sidewalk. I nearly got ran over by a bike twice.

Once you make it to the city side of the bride, there are many viewpoints that enable visitors to capture an iconic shot of the Golden Gate. Some include Strauss Plaza, Marshall’s Beach and Fort Point National Historic Site.

Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, San Francisco, USA © Purchased Stock from Deposit Photos

2. Palace of Fine Art

It is easy to spend hours taking photos of the Golden Gate, however, I’d suggest walking along the waterfront towards the Palace of Fine Art.

From there, you’ll get a great view of the bridge with the city in the background.

The Palace was designed in 1915 as part of the Panama Pacific Exposition. It is situated in a city park and it is the perfect place to go for a 30-minute stroll.

The Palace makes you feel as if you have been transported back in time to the ‘Roman Era’.

With its detailed architecture and grand design, you won’t be able to help but marvel at the beauty of this historical building.

Lombard Street, San Francisco, California, USA

3. Lombard Street

Next on our San Francisco 2 day itinerary is the famous Lombard Street.

The streets is known for being the ‘most crooked street in the world’ with 8 sharp zig-zag turns.

The street is one of San Frans top tourist attractions and at times can see up to 17,000 visitors per day. Now that is one busy street!

Now, don’t worry, you don’t need to walk in a zig-zag fashion in order to walk up Lombard Street. There is a pedestrian sidewalk to the right-hand side, giving visitors the perfect side profile view of the street.

It is also super fun to watch the brave soles who attempt to drive down the street. I know that is something I’d be scared to do!

‘Go on without me, this hill is too steep’

4. Have Fun on the Streets of San Francisco

So, one thing I find with those planning their 2 days in San Francisco is that they leave little time to ‘freely’ explore.

Designing an itinerary that is jam packed can be overwhelming and intimidating. There is so much more to this charming city than it’s leading tourist attractions.

I’d advise giving yourself some time to ‘get lost’, walk along the steep hills and really get a feel for what the city has to offer.

For an hour or two, have no plan, just admire the scenery, take fun pictures and enjoy.

This picture is probably my favourite from the trip

Hyde Street Pier, San Francisco, California, USA

5. Hyde Street Pier

The next stop on our San Francisco itinerary is Hyde Street Pier. The Pier is home to a range of historical ships. Including the Balclutha (pictured), which was built in 1886 and is a registered US National Historic landmark.

Also pictured above is the Eureka, the world’s largest wooden ship. The ship was built in 1890 and is also a US National Historic Landmark. Some of the ships docked at Hyde Street Pier offer free admission on board and allow passengers to explore the deck.

If you’re interested in history and maritime culture, then this is definitely the place for you. You’ll be able to learn about the vessels and their journeys, as well as take some incredible photos of these impressive ships.

There’s also a gift shop on the pier where you can purchase souvenirs or grab a snack.

Sea lions at Pier 39, San Francisco, USA © Purchased Stock from YAY Images

6. Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

A short stroll away from Hyde Street Pier takes you to the bustling area of Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning waterfront views.

An iconic part of San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a range of attractions.

Here, you can treat yourself to fresh, locally-sourced seafood, browse through unique shops, and even meet the famous sea lions who have made Pier 39 their home.

At the end of the pier lies an outstanding view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and San Francisco Bay.

I’d advise spending an hour or two shopping, taking pictures and eating at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Cruising San Francisco Bay, California, USA

7. Cruising Underneath the Golden Gate Bridge

I’d highly recommend taking part in the sunset cruise through San Francisco Bay. Now, it’s clear from the picture above that a ‘sunset’ in San Francisco can be hard to come by. But…. still, this cruise is AWESOME! Even though I didn’t see a picture-perfect sunset as I cruised beneath the Golden Gate, I still had an amazing time aboard.

The cruise costs 60 dollars and includes 2 drinks, finger-sized food and a 1.5-hour cruise. As you sail down San Francisco bay, you will get up close and personal with the Golden Gate Bridge, have a 360 view of Alcatraz Island and dance away to some AWESOME music. If this sounds like something you’d enjoy, be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

What to do in San Francisco in 2 days: Day 1 Map

Below is a map of all the locations mentioned on day 1 of our 2 days in San Francisco. As you can see the city is extremely walkable. Making the day 1 itinerary perfect for anyone looking to do a self-guided walking tour of San Fran.

Two Days in San Francisco – Day 2

Day 2: Alcatraz, Union Square & the Painted Ladies

Day 2 of our two days in San Francisco will allow us to see some more of those San Fran highlights. We will visit the famous Painted Ladies, do a little bit of shopping in Union Square and head back towards pier 39 for a cruise out to Alcatraz Island.

Painted Ladies, Alamo Square, San Francisco, USA © Purchased Stock from YAY Images

1. The Painted Ladies

Visiting the Painted Ladies is one of the most famous picture opportunities in the city, home to an iconic row of Victorian houses, also known for being in the opening credits of the classic TV show ‘Full House’.

These pastel-painted homes sit as a backdrop to the city ‘s skyline and Alamo Square Park, offering a breathtaking view that is not to be missed.

They survived the 1906 earthquake and the subsequent fires, standing as firm reminders of the city’s resilience.

Visiting the Painted Ladies offers not just a photo opportunity but a chance to appreciate the beauty of San Francisco’s past in the midst of its bustling present.

The Painted Ladies are also a prime example of Victorian architecture, characterised by intricate details such as ornate woodwork, stained glass windows, and steep roofs. These houses were built during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, which influenced much of the architectural design during that time.

Purchased Stock from Deposit Photos © Oscity

2. Union Square

Union Square is where all the tourist action takes place. Here, you will find most hotels, Airbnb’s and hostels. It is the ideal location to shop to you drop, get a delish bite to eat or check out San Francisco’s theatre district.

Things to Do in Union Square:

Shopping: Explore the numerous high-end boutiques and department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue. This area also boasts several flagship stores, including Apple, Nike, and Louis Vuitton.
Dining: Union Square offers an array of restaurants catering to all tastes. From the renowned Cheesecake Factory located at the top of Macy’s to local eateries serving San Francisco’s famous clam chowder, there’s something for everyone.

3. Visit the Theatre District: Catch a show at the American Conservatory Theater or the Curran Theater, both prominent venues in the city’s vibrant performing arts scene.

4. Art Galleries: For art enthusiasts, Union Square showcases numerous art galleries with pieces ranging from contemporary to classic.

5. Relax in the Public Square: The heart of Union Square is a public plaza where you can relax, enjoy a coffee, or simply people-watch against the backdrop of the city’s hustle and bustle.

If you don’t feel like walking from your hotel all the way down to Fisherman’s Wharf, there is a San Francisco cable car that leaves from Columbus Ave & Bay St that takes 15 minutes

Chinatown of San Francisco, California, USA © Purchased Stock from Deposit Photos

3. China Town

Did you know that the China Town in San Fran is the oldest in all of North America, it offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and food that is unlike any other spot in the city.

From traditional Chinese herbal shops to bustling markets and authentic restaurants, this neighbourhood is a must-visit for those looking to experience the unique fusion of Eastern and Western influences in San Francisco.

In addition to exploring China Town’s rich cultural heritage, visitors can also participate in various activities such as cooking classes, tea tasting, and guided tours to learn more about this vibrant community.

You can even visit a Fortune Cookie Factory, where you can see how fortune cookies are made and even make your own personalised cookies!

And for a unique experience, head over to China Town’s famous Dragon’s Gate at night, when the iconic red lanterns light up the streets and create a magical atmosphere.

Don’t forget to try the delectable dim sum and other mouth-watering dishes at one of China Town’s many restaurants for a true taste of Chinese cuisine.

Alcatraz, San Francisco , California, USA

4. Alcatraz Island

The moment we have all been waiting for. The Ultimate ‘MUST SEE’ in San Francisco… Alcatraz Island.

Words can not describe how amazing a trip to Alcatraz Island is. The Island is located in San Francisco bay and was home to the most famous prison in the US.

The prison began operation from 1934 to 1963 and housed some of the Worlds deadliest criminals.

Visitors are transported over to the Island, otherwise known as ‘The Rock’.

Here, they learn about some of the prisons most famous inmates and their attempt to escape the prison. Although considering the prison is surrounded by water, it is uncertain if some of the inmates ever made it to land.

I must stress how important it is to book your tickets to Alcatraz well in advance as they DO SELL OUT! I learnt this the hard way as on my second visit to San Fran as I could not get tickets to Alcatraz. No matter how hard I tried. Now, I was lucky as I had been before, but I know many of my friends that I met on my travels were left rather disappointed.

Once you have finished your tour of Alcatraz Island, I’d suggest heading back to pier 39 for a bite to eat.

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Alcatraz, San Francisco , California, USA

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2 Day San Francisco Itinerary – Map of Day 2

Below is a map of all the locations mentioned on day 2 of our San Francisco in 2 days itinerary. I hope this comes in handy in planning your trip to San Francisco.

Getting to San Francisco from the Airport

Flying into San Francisco is a really easy option due to cities public transport facilities. I have compiled a list of ways to make it into San Francisco from the airport to save you from having to do extensive research.

The BART: The BART service runs all the way from the airport into Union Square. Generally speaking, the journey takes a half hour to complete, for information on fare costs please visit the BART website.

The SamTrans: Alternatively, if you are not staying in Union Square and don’t want the hassle of transferring you may consider catching the SansTrans buses. These busses drop off at various locations throughout the city. Please but mindful that the journey time is hard to predict due to traffic levels on the day. Click here to check out the various routes from the airport into San Francisco.

Uber or Lyft: If you are looking for a more direct way to arrive in the city, then why not consider availing of services such as Uber or Lyft. This option is of course more expensive but it does ensure door to door drop off. Perfect for those who are a little jet-lagged

Getting Around San Francisco

As I mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, San Francisco is quite a walkable city. It is easy to get from A to B without the need for public transport or a taxi service. In saying that, sometimes we do need a quicker option… or perhaps we can simply no longer fight the dire need to sit down after a long day of exploring. That is why I have put together a quick guide to getting around San Fran when your ‘leg’s don’t work as they used to before’

Public Transport: There are many public transport options throughout the city, including the BART, Muni, Muni Metro, historic streetcars, cable cars and SamTrans. Odds are on your visit to the iconic US city you are going to want to take a ride on the world-famous cable cars. If you plan on taking more than one trip on public transport, it may be worth checking out the visitor passport which has a 1, 3 and 7-day pass. Please be mindful that the pass only covers the Muni, Muni Metro, historic streetcars and cable cars. The BART and SansTrans are not included in this service.

Bike Your Way Through the City: Another cool way to make your way through San Fran is by bike. Lyft offers a rental bike service throughout the city. I’d highly recommend checking this out before you arrive, so you have the app downloaded and your information ready to go.

Lyft and Uber: Finally, Lyft and Uber rides are generally much cheaper than a taxi service and are the best way to avail of the door to door drop-offs.

Where to stay in San Francisco

It’s no secret. San Francisco is an EXPENSIVE city. Therefore, making it extremely difficult to find an affordable place to stay. Especially for those of you who like me, tend to travel on a budget. Throughout my travels, in the US I grew rather fond of the HI hostel group. Below is a list of 3 options in San Francisco.

HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hostel: Located in the lively Fisherman’s Wharf area, this hostel is just steps away from popular tourist spots such as Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square. It offers a variety of room options, including female-only dorms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

HI San Francisco City Center Hostel: Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, this hostel is within walking distance to many of the city’s famous landmarks such as Chinatown and Union Square. It offers both dorm rooms and private rooms, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge area for guests to socialize.

Alternative Options for less Budget conscious travllers

When to Visit San Francisco (with a weather guide)

San Francisco boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate throughout the year, making it a destination that can be enjoyed in any season. However, mild does not mean warm…remeber that. San Francisco is known for it’s coastal wind so pack accordingly with layers and jackets! To help you decide when to visit, below is a weather guide for each season:

Spring (March – May): This is considered the best time to visit San Francisco as the weather is pleasant, sunny, and not too hot. Temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 18°C (64°F). However, keep in mind that this is the peak tourist season, so expect higher hotel rates and crowds at popular attractions.

Summer (June – August): The summer months are the busiest and most crowded in San Francisco. Temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) to 20°C (68°F), with occasional heat waves reaching up to 27°C (80°F). This is a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but be prepared for higher hotel rates and summer crowds.

Fall (September – November): The fall season in San Francisco brings cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 17°C (63°F), and the famous fog begins to roll in. This is considered the shoulder season, so you can expect lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. It’s also a great time to visit if you want to catch some of the city’s popular food and wine festivals.

Winter (December – February): The winter months in San Francisco are mild with temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 15°C (59°F). Rain is common during this time, but you can also expect some sunny days. This is the low season, so you’ll find lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. It’s a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter experience and want to take advantage of off-season deals.

In addition to the weather guide, here are some other factors to consider when planning your trip to San Francisco:

Holidays and Events: Keep in mind that certain holidays and events, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, can affect hotel rates and availability. If you’re planning to visit during these times, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance.
Weekends vs. Weekdays: Hotel rates tend to be higher on weekends, so if you’re on a budget, consider visiting during the week. You’ll also find that popular attractions and restaurants are less crowded on weekdays.
Local Events: San Francisco is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with various events held throughout the year. Be sure to check the city’s event calendar when planning your trip to see if there are any festivals, concerts, or exhibits that you’d like to attend. It’s also worth noting that some events, such as the popular Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival, can make hotel rates go up.

Tips For Those Visiting San Francisco

Safety Tips

San Francisco is generally a safe city, that is if you have your wits about you. Like when visiting all major cities, it is important to take extra caution when walking about. You don’t want to run into problems like pickpocketing. And try not to do things to draw attention to yourself and you will be fine.

Packing Tips

As I said, San Fran can be COLD, even in the summer months. I’d 100% advise bringing a sweater, jeans and a jacket. You never know when the sea breeze will decide to make an appearance. Other than that, pack accordingly for the season in which you plan to visit.

Budget Tips

San Fran is one expensive place, one that is pretty hard to do on a Budget. One bit of advise I can give to those looking to spend a little less money is to try to avoid going on ‘expensive’ nights out. If you do choose to drink while visiting considering taking part in FREE bar crawl or hostel events. You can also go to the grocery store and cook your food in your hostel to avoid spending money on expensive meals.

2 Day San Francisco Itinerary Q&A

Is 2 days in San Francisco enough time?

Yes, while you will not be able to see everything, you will have enough time to explore the highlights including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island and more.

Is San Francisco expensive as a tourist?

Yes, San Francisco is known to be one of the most expensive cities in the United States for tourists. The costs of accommodation, dining, and attractions are relatively high compared to other cities.

For instance, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around $20, whereas a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $80.

Similarly, a one-night stay at a mid-range hotel can cost around $200. However, there are ways to navigate the city on a budget.

Opting for public transportation, visiting free attractions, and trying out affordable local eateries can help manage expenses.

Is San Francisco still worth visiting?

Absolutely, San Francisco is definitely worth a visit. Despite its relatively high cost, the city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history that is hard to find in other cities.

There’s something for everyone, from the bustling Pier 39, the serene beauty of the Golden Gate Park, the historic charm of Alcatraz Island, to the colourful neighborhoods like Chinatown and Mission District.

Also, the city’s food scene is diverse and innovative, offering a range of culinary experiences, from food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants.

What is the best month to see San Francisco?

The best time to visit San Francisco largely depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. Typically, the months of September to November offer the most pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for sightseeing.

This time of year is also far less busy compared to the peak tourist season from June to August.

What month is rainy season in San Francisco?

The rainy season in San Francisco usually kicks off in November and lasts through March. During this period, the city experiences a significant amount of its annual rainfall, with the heaviest showers typically occurring in January and February.

However, the rain rarely continues all day, and there are often breaks in the weather, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s attractions. Despite the rain, many outdoor activities are still possible, and the city’s indoor attractions, such as its world-class museums and vibrant arts scene, offer plenty of entertainment options.

Is it free to walk the Golden Gate Bridge?

Yes, it is free to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. There is a pedestrian walkway that is open during the day and offers stunning views of the city and bay. The walkway stretches 1.7 miles from end to end, so it can be a substantial walk depending on your pace.

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Thanks for Reading!

I hope my San Francisco blog came in handy and helped you plan your trip to the iconic US city. As I mentioned my second trip to San Fran was part of my coast to coast road trip with Trek America. If you two are including San Fran in your US road trip be sure to check out my packing list here.

I have linked some of my favourite stops from my American road trip down below:

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post 2 Days in San Francisco: Visit all the Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

4 Day New York Itinerary: Discover NYC’s Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

Laura — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 22:55:00 +0000

Liberty State Park, New Jersey, USA

4 Day New York Itinerary: Discover NYC’s Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

New York is one big city, with over 15 miles in Manhattan alone! Making it rather difficult to navigate around, especially for those on their first visit. That is why I have decided to put together the ultimate 4 day New York Itinerary for those looking for a carefree way to explore the Big Apple.

Who is this itinerary for? Well, Just about anyone looking for insider tips on 4 days in NYC!

Throughout this post, I will feature all of New York’s must-see attractions, some tip-top secret hidden gems and some practical tips and advice. We will dive deep into a step by step guide on how to spend each day with a carefully planned out itinerary featuring most attractions that are within walking distance of each other. I have even included a map of each day to allow readers to go on a self-guided tour of New York City hassle-free!

This guide will also give details on solo female travel in New York, Budget Travel (PSST… The only way I know how to travel and first-timers tips and advice. So, if this sounds like the perfect guide for you, stay tuned because we are just about to have a whole lot of virtual fun!

4 Days in New York – Day 1: Mid-Town Manhattan – Iconic Skyscrapers, Scenic Parks & Must-See Attractions

The first day of our 4 days in New York City lets us explore the streets of mid-town Manhattan. From iconic buildings, scenic parks and NYC Must-See Attractions. So, start packing your walking shoes because after reading this guide you’ll be running for the airport.

Times Square, New York, USA

Stop 1: Times Square

Our New York Itinerary starts off bright and early with a stop in one of the most visited places in all of New York, Times Square. Yes, it’s Cheesy, yes, it’s touristy and yes, it is a whole load of fun.

Once you arrive, take a moment to watch the screens flash before your eyes and let it sink in that you have in fact made it to NEW YORK CITY. What can I say, Times Square is a busy spot, with an average of 330,000 visitors each day. Making it the ideal location for some time lapse action.

Want to see Times Square without any crowds? Then I’d highly suggest paying a visit in the early hours of the morning. The above photo was taken at 5am and I basically had the whole place to myself. I did come across a commuter or two but nothing to the extent of the crowds seen both in the busy hours of the day and at night.

Budget Tip for Times Square: It is important to note that Times Square is one of the most expensive places to eat in Manhattan. If you are looking for a little bit of breakfast to kick start the day, I’d advise walking a little further away from all the action. Otherwise, you will be paying an outrageous price for a small bit of food. This is something I wish I knew before my first trip to New York.

New York Public Library, New York City, USA

Stop 2: New York Public Library

Next on the list is the New York Public Library. If you are anyway like me and much sooner read online recourses, watch movies or basically do anything else except read a book. It can be hard to picture yourself voluntarily walking into a library while on vacation. In saying that, the New York public library is an attraction not to be missed. Especially for those book worms out there!

The building’s exterior is absolutely stunning, in fact, it is hard to believe it is placed right in the middle of New York City. It is of the Greek style architecture called ‘Beaux-Arts’ and gives visitors the travelling back in time feeling.

The inside of the building is no different, with huge chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, fairytale-style staircases and beautifully detailed rooms. My favourite is the famous ‘Rose Main Reading Room’ which is pictured above.

The best thing about the New York City Library is that it is 100% FREE to enter.

Insider Tip: The library has free public bathrooms for its visitors. I’ll go into a little more detail on the restrooms in New York a little later in this post.

Grand Central Station, New York, USA

Stop 3: Grand Central Station

Just a quick 5-minute walk from the New York city library lies another one of New York’s world-famous building, Grand Central Station. Similar to the library, the station’s unique architecture is of the Greek Beaux-Arts Style.

Grand Central Station is listed as one of the top 10 visited tourist attractions in the world with nearly 22 million visitors each year. And… that does not include commuters :O

Not only is the station a leading tourist attraction, a world-renowned transport facility and an outright gorgeous building it is also one of Hollywood’s most famous filming locations.

It is clear why a visit to Grand Central Station is one of the best things to do in New York City. Once you arrive, I advise heading into the main concourse room and walk up the famous steps featured in most movies. There, you could easily stand for hours watching the commuters rush on by.

The view of the Chrysler Building from Grand Central Station in New York

Stop 4: The Chrysler Building

When leaving Grand Central Station, don’t forget to look up. You may be surprised at what you see. *Hint* *Hint* It’s the Chrysler Building.

I don’t have much information on the Chrysler building other than it being one of the nicest skyscrapers in mid-town Manhattan. I just love the detail on the top of the building. It reminds me of a crown or tiara…the royalty of New York so to speak.

Empire State Building, New York, USA © Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Stop 5: Empire State Building

Once you have finished staring high in the sky at the Chrysler building it is time to find the tallest building in all of mid-town Manhattan. And perhaps one of the most iconic buildings in all of New York City. That’s right, you guessed it, it’s the Empire State.

The Empire State is pretty much the symbol of New York. It is known by people all over the world, even those who have never shown a great interest in the big apple.

Can I go inside the Empire State Building? The Empire State consists of mostly offices, there is however an observation deck at the top of the building which is open to the public. Although this is not my favourite viewpoint in New York City it is most definitely worth the visit for first-timers. Particularly, those who are not on too tight of a budget. If you do decide to pay a visit to the Empire States observation deck, be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

What makes the Empire State Building Unique? Well, this is something I found out by accident. I was going for a nighttime stroll in Liberty State Park in New Jersey when the tip-top of the famous skyscraper began to sparkle in the night sky.

Each night, following sunset, the Empire State twinkles on the hour every hour until dawn. And as if that wasn’t cool enough, the prime colours displayed changes each night, sometimes marking special occasions like the 4th of July (red, white & Blue) and St. Patricks Day (Green, White & Orange). If you are curious what colour the building is displaying tonight and what that colour means, click here.

Related Post: EMPIRE STATE BUILDING OR TOP OF THE ROCK?

High Line Park in Chelsea, New York City, USA © Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Stop 6: The High Line

The High Line quickly became a beloved part of New York City when it opened in 2009. The elevated city garden is 1.45 miles long and follows the route of an old abandoned railway line.

I’d highly advise taking a stroll along the walkway while taking in the cityscape and surroundings. It is also a great spot to have a bite to eat, sit on a park bench and just watch the world go by.

Flat Iron Building, New York City, The USA © Purchased Stock from YayImages

Stop 7: Flat Iron Building

The next stop of the day is another one of NYC’s famous buildings, you’ve seen it in all the movies, it’s featured in millions of backdrops and it has visitors intrigued by its unique design.

The Flat Iron Building was built in 1902 and was one of three skyscrapers in New York at the time. The building soars 20 floors high and is angled on a triangular block formed by the meeting of Fifth Avenue, Broadway and East 22nd Street.

I must admit the Flat Iron is a rather tricky one to photograph, as there are so many elements that need to be taking into consideration, the angle, the suns position and the distance. So, if you’re looking for a picture-perfect image be sure to take the above into consideration.

If you are looking for somewhere nice to grab a bite to eat, I’d highly advise checking out the Chelsea Markets. There is a large range of food options, from fast food, sit down meals and take away items.

New York Itinerary 4 days Map: Day 1

Four Days in New York – Day 2: Central Park, Broadway & Hidden Gems

On our second day in New York City, we will pay a visit to the world’s most famous city park, see an outstanding performance on broadway and explore one of New York’s best-kept secrets.

Central Park, New York, USA

Stop 1: Morning Cycle in Central Park

Start the second morning of our 4 days in New York City off bright and early with a cycle in Central Park. This is the perfect way to clear the mind and get ready for a day of exploring. It takes 45 to 60 minutes to do a loop of the park but please allow time for breaks and picture taking. I’d highly advise booking your bike rental now as it is much cheaper online!

If you do not want to cycle, it is, of course, possible to visit the park on foot. Just allow for more time to explore.

Below is a list of the major highlights in Central Park:

Strawberry Fields: This is where the Imagine Mosaic lies in tribute to former Beatles member John Lennon. This is very popular among music lovers and buskers.

The Great Lawn: Is a famous spot for people to sit and chill on a hot summers day. It is in the centre of the park, alongside the turtle pond.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Or the Met for short is the top spot in New York City for Art enthusiast and it is located in the Centre of Central Park.

Belvedere Castle: This fairytale style castle is located on the Great Lawn right in the middle of central park. It is home to exhibit rooms, an observation deck and the official central park weather station.

Bow Bridge: This is the iconic bridge seen in most photos of central park. It is the main reason tourist enter the park. And is the perfect spot for those insta worthy snaps. It is also common in the Summer and Spring months for visitors to rent paddle boats to row in the lake and under the bridge.

Bethesda Terrace & Fountain: This is a section of the park is possibly the most famous all thanks to blockbuster movies deciding to film there.

Stop 2: Stroll Down 5th Avenue & Perhaps do a bit of Shopping.

Spend as long as you please exploring our next stop. 5th Avenue is New York’s most popular shopping streets and attracts millions each year. The street runs down the whole length of Manhattan and is home to some of the world’s most expensive retail stores.

Roosevelt Tramway, New York City, USA

Stop 3: Roosevelt Tramway

The next stop is one of my favourite hidden gems in all of NYC. Not many tourists know that there is a cable car right in the middle of Manhattan that transports guest too and from Roosevelt Island.

A return journey will set you back $4.50 and is available by using the subway card. Roosevelt Island is a small skinny Island in the middle of Manhattan and Queens. As visitors make their way towards the Island they are presented with a pretty neat view of the city.

Upon arrival on the Island, guests can choose to take a stroll or avail of the free shuttle bus that drives around to the varies parts of the Island. Including the four freedom park, small pox’s hospital ruins, the Blackwell island lighthouse and some stunning views of Manhattan.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City, USA © Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Stop 4: St. Patricks Cathedral

Another great addition to New York is the Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral, Saint Patricks Cathedral. The style of architecture used in the church is really unique to any other building in the iconic city.

Stop 5: The Intrepid

If you have an interest in visiting an American military Sea, Air and Space museum then consider paying a visit to the Intrepid. The museum features real-life scale military crafts and allows visitors to experience an aircraft carrier, see the first-ever space shuttle, the fastest jets in the world and enter a cold war submarine.

I’d advise booking your tickets now to avoid disappointment and avail of the best prices.

Broadway Sign, New York, USA © Purchased Stock from YayImages

Stop 6: A Broadway Show

Now, I know broadway shows can be a little pricey and certainly do not fit with a ‘budget trip’ to New York City. However, going to see a show live on broadway is a once and a lifetime opportunity and if you can afford to stretch the budget, I highly recommend you do so.

Broadway Budget Tip:

If you really want to see a broadway show but don’t want to break the bank doing so. Considering booking tickets to the Matinée, this is the same show but it is on during the day rather than in the evening. Tickets to the matinée shows tend to be a little bit cheaper.

You could also attempt to purchase tickets directly from the box office on the day of the show or the day before. At these times, tickets are sometimes sold at a discounted rate.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck, New York, USA

Stop 7: The Top of the Rock

The final stop of day 2 brings us to my favourite observation deck in all of New York, the Top of the Rock. A visit to the top of the Rock is one of the top things to do in New York at night. Visitors soar 850 feet in the air and are presented with 360 views of New York City and beyond.

Visitors board the elevator, otherwise known as the ‘Sky Shuttle’ an are transported to the 70th floor of the Rockefeller Centre in under a minute. I distinctly remember my ears popping on assent.

At the top, there are 2 indoor and outdoor observation decks that offer views of Central Park, the Empire State, the World Trade Centre and more.

I’d highly recommend going up just before sunset, that way you can see the city at day time, sunrise and nightfall. Book your tickets now for flexible time slots.

4 day itinerary NYC Map: Day 2

4 Days in New York City – Day 3: The Financial District

On day 3 of our 4 days in NYC, we will explore the Financial District of Manhattan, home to world-famous buildings, streets and businesses.

Trinity Church, New York, USA © Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Stop 1: The Charging Bull, Federal Hall & Trinity Church

Start the morning off bright and early by exploring the streets of the Financial District, there are some attractions worth stopping by for a quick picture opportunity.

The first one being New York’s favourite resident, the Charging Bull. The bull is so famous that it is common to see a line of tourist patiently waiting to get a snap with the symbol of Wall Street. Even if you are not willing to wait in line, it is still worth walking by to see the bull. You’ll be in for a shock because the statue is HUGE!

Once you have finished taking pictures of the bull walk towards Federal Hall for another quick snap. Federal hall was the first historic building of the Financial District and is of the Greek Revival style architecture.

A short walk from Federal Hall lies Trinity Church, another building that doesn’t quite fit into New York’s modern design but is most definitely worth the visit.

One World Trade Centre, New York, USA

Stop 2: World Trade Centre

Next on the list is the One World Trade Centre located in the centre of New York’s Financial District. The trade centre was built in in 2006 after the devasting attack on the original world trade centres, the twin towers on September the 11th 2001.

The One World Trade centre is now the tallest building in all of the United States and is 94 stories high. It can be seen from nearly every angle in lower Manhattan and one of NYC most popular buildings.

Similar to the Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building, the One World Trade has an observation deck open to the public. I have personally never gone up to it but I have been told that the views are phenomenal. Book your tickets online today.

9/11 Memorial, New York, USA

Stop 3: 9/11 Memorial

Once you have finished taking pictures of the One World Trade Centre it is time to pay your respect to all the lives lost on September 11th 2001. The 9/11 Memorial is simple a breathtakingly beautiful tribute of two mirroring pools that lay on the footprint of where the twin towers once stood tall. The pools are surrounded by a list of name of the people who lost their lives on that tragic day. It is heartbreaking to see, yet a vital stop while in New York.

Stop 5: Westfield Shopping Centre

Once you have finished paying your respect at the 9/11 memorial, start heading towards the Westfield Mall. The shopping facility is home to over 120 retailers and is possibly one of the most beautiful shopping facilities I have ever seen.

Insider Tips: The Westfield Mall is a great place to stop by for a bit of shade from the sun, a bathroom break and some FREE WIFI.

Stop 6: Exchange Place

Once you have taken a little break from all the walking, it is time to jump on a path train to New Jersey. The good news is the train platform is located on the bottom floor of the Westfield Shopping centre making it easy to find.

The next spot on our New York off the beaten path location list is once again in the state of New Jersey. It’s possibly my favourite spot to view the Manhattan Skyline. Exchange Place is located in the centre of Downtown New Jersey and is often referred to as “Wall Street West” as many financial companies have set up there.

Path trains running from Westfield Shopping Centre to Exchange Place cost $5.50 for a return journey and only takes 8 minutes to arrive. I will attach a google maps link for directions.

Exchange place is one of my favourite places to view the New York City skyline. I’d advise going over for sunset to admire the sun setting upon the iconic skyscrapers.

4 day NYC Itinerary Map: Day 3

New York Itinerary: Day 4 – The Streets of Brooklyn

So, we have reached our final day in New York. After 3 action-packed days, the final one will be that little bit more chilled. Start the day off exploring Brooklyn and all its glory. Then get up close and personal with Lady Liberty. And finally, end the day with another epic view of the Manhattan Skyline.

Pebbles Beach, Brooklyn, New York, USA

Stop 1: Explore Brooklyn Water Front

One of my FAVOURITE places in all of New York City is BROOKLYN <3 And the below places is why!

The Brooklyn waterfront is home to some outstanding views of Manhattan, the Hudson River and the Brooklyn Bridge. It is a nice peaceful place to spend an hour or two just exploring and enjoying the views.

Here are some of my favourite spots along the river:

The Brooklyn Bridge Park: The park is the ideal place to leave the noise of Manhattan behind. It hosts some amazing views of the skyline and of course the Brooklyn Bridge. Throughout the summer months, free Kayak sessions and fitness classes are held in the park for the public to enjoy.

Empire Fulton Ferry Park: A short walk from the Brooklyn Bridge Park is the Fulton Ferry Park which is home to yet another amazing view of the Brooklyn Bridge. In fact, this park allows walkers to get up close and personal with the bridge without having to be walking on it. I literally fell in love with this park and easily spent an hour finding different angles to take a photo of the Brooklyn Bridge. What makes this park even better is, it is also home to an amazing view of the Manhattan Bridge too.

Pebbles Beach: Now, once you have captured a few perfect pictures of both bridges, start to walk towards the Manhattan Bridge. To the left of the footpath lies the stunning Pebbles Beach. It is a great place to sit down on the steps and watch as the waves from the Hudson wash up on the shore. Who knew peaceful places like this existed in New York City?

Washington Street, Brooklyn, New York, USA

Stop 2: Explore the Street of Dumbo

Once you have finished exploring the Brooklyn waterfront, start to walk towards Dumbo. Dumbo is a great place to visit the famous Flea Markets, enjoy the free weekly concerts and enjoy the view of Manhattan.

One of my favourite places in Dumbo is Washington Street. Here, the Manhattan Bridge inlines perfectly with the famous Empire State Building. Creating a picture-perfect moment.

The Brooklyn Bridge, New York, USA

Stop 3: Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

It’s time to get those bucket lists out because the next stop on our itinerary is one of the most popular things to do in NYC! I would suggest planning to spend 45 to 60 minutes walking across the bridge, as you will be stopping for pictures every chance you get.

It can be a little bit tricky to find the walkway of the bridge, as the start is positioned a little further away from the waterfront than expected. The starting point of the Brooklyn Bridge Walkway can be seen on Google Maps.

View from the The Staten Island Ferry, New York, USA

Stop 4: Battery Park & The Staten Island Ferry

Once you have completed your walk across the Brooklyn Bridge it is time to head towards the docking station for the Staten Island Ferry. I’d suggest walking through Battery Park for a more scenic route.

The Staten Island Ferry is a FREE boat ride over to you guested it… Staten Island. But…the Island is not the reason for boarding the boat. As you sail along the Hudson you will see the perfect view of the Statue of Liberty. But..

There is also an awesome view of the New York City skyline as the boat departs from Manhattan.

Insider Tip: Ride the ferry before mid-day for the perfect pic of the Statue of Liberty. In the evening time, the sun causes the statue to come out as a silhouette in pictures.

Liberty State Park, New Jersey, USA

Stop 5: Liberty State Park

The final stop on our 4 days in New York takes us out of the hustle and bustle of the city and offers phenomenal views of NYC from afar. It’s time to board the Statue Cruises located in Battery Park, Lower Manhattan.

The cruise first drops visitors off at Ellis Island for an up-close and personal view of the Statue of Liberty. It then continues on towards Liberty State Park.

Liberty State Park offers outstanding views of the NYC skyline, the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River. On the park grounds lies a tribute to the lives lost on the 11th of September 2001. It is also home to the old New Jersey Railroad Terminal that was used up until 1967.

Liberty State Park is another great place to watch the sunset as seen in the video below.

4 day trip to New York Map: Day 4

Have 5 days in New York or More? Here, is a list of some things I like to do in NYC that did not make the itinerary.

Free Walking Tour: A guided FREE walking tour is one of the best ways to see New York City. Especially for those on their first visit. Not to mention it is super affordable. Don’t forget to give the tour guide a little tip at the end to say thanks for their time and hard work.

Become a member of a New York TV Show: I have been lucky enough to be a live studio audience member of both the tonight show starting Jimmy Fallon and Live with Kelly. If you would like to find out how you too could experience this, check out my How to get tickets to Jimmy Fallon post.

Getting to New York City from the Airport

There are two possible airports that offer easy access to Manhattan. Those being JFK and Newark Airport. Below I will highlight the most convenient ways to get to the city from both airports.

Uber, Lyft or Taxi: So, the most direct and possibly quickest way to get from both airports to New York City would to avail of taxi services. This is however, a very expensive approach. If you need door to door drop then this is the one for you. However, if you’re willing to spare a bit of time getting from A to B I’d recommend staying clear of this approach.
Shuttle Bus: The next option requires booking a ticket on port authorities official shuttle bus service. By filling it your flight details and booking your ticket ahead of time you are basically ensuring you have away of getting to and from the airports. The driver will wait for you if your flight is delayed, drop you to the front door of you accommodation and the service runs 24 hours a day. It’s really a win win!
Public Transport: Those travelling from JFK may find it difficult to make it to the city with public transport. This is most likely the most budget friendly approach but definitely the most time consuming. And requires a fair bit of planning. Those travelling from Newark Airport need to first take the AirTrain to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station. Then transfer onto the New Jersey transit train that is going towards New York Penn Station.

How to get from JFK Aiport to New York City

There are several ways to get from JFK Airport to New York City, including taking a taxi, a shuttle service, or the public transportation system.

One option is to take a taxi, which can be found outside of the baggage claim area at JFK Airport. The ride to Manhattan will take about 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost around $65, plus tolls and gratuity.

Another option is to take a shuttle service, which can be booked in advance or found outside of the baggage claim area at JFK Airport. The shuttle will take you to a designated location in Manhattan, such as your hotel or a nearby subway station. The cost of a shuttle will vary depending on the company and the destination, but it is generally less expensive than a taxi.

Finally, you can also take the public transportation system to get from JFK Airport to New York City. The New York City subway system has a station at JFK Airport, which can be accessed via the AirTrain. You can take the AirTrain to the Howard Beach subway station, where you can transfer to a train into Manhattan. The cost of the AirTrain and subway is $7.75, and the ride to Manhattan will take about an hour.

Overall, the best option for you will depend on your budget and your final destination in New York City.

Getting Around New York City

Walk: Believe it or not, New York is actually quite a walkable city. Yes, it is extremely big but if you plan accordingly (by using this itinerary) you will only need to get public transport on days 3 and 4 to the finical district and Brooklyn. This will save you a lot of money!

The Subway: There are so many different subway routes throughout New York that it is easy to get from A to B using public transport. I always like to download google maps to use offline. I use the directions feature to tell me what train to get. A one way subway journey will cost $2.50 and a 7 day pass costs $29.00 (at the time of writing) so if you plan on using the subway quite often this may be a great option for you.

Uber or Lyft: New York Yellow Taxi’s are extremely expensive, therefore, if you need to avail of a taxi service, I’d highly recommend Uber or Lyft. Of course the subway is much cheaper but it does not offer door to door service.

Hop on hop off: One way of getting around the city is to avail of the Hop on Hop off Bus Service. This will bring you around to all the major tourist attractions in the city.

Bike Around New York: You can also opt in to biking around New York City. At the time of writing a one day pass costs $12 and a 3 day pass costs
$24.

Where to stay in New York

While travelling in New York, I have always stayed with Family. I do, however, suggest for those of you travelling on a budget to consider staying with the HI Hostel Group. I have stayed with them in varies cities across America and they never disappoint. Always clean, nice staff and have fun environments.

When to Visit New York (with a weather guide)

New York get’s pretty consistent seasons, which is good for those planning trips at certain times in the year. I’ll attach below an average temperature guide for each month. This in turn, will make it easier to pack for the month you plan to visit the Big Apple.

All information was summarised from the CurrentResults website.

Month	Temperature (fahrenheit)	Temperature (celsius)
Janurary	38° to 27°F	4° to -3°C
Feburary	42° to 29°F	5° to -2°C
March	50° to 35°F	10° to 2°C
April	71° to 54°F	16° to 17°C
May	71° to 54°F	22° to 12°C
June	79° to 64°F	26° to 18°C
July	84° to 69°F	29° to 20°C
August	83° to 68°F	28° to 20°C
September	75° to 61°F	24° to 16°C
October	64° to 50°F	18° to 10°C
November	54° to 42°F	12° to 5°C
December	43° to 32°F	6° to 0°C

Tips and Advice for Those Planning a Trip to New York City

Safety Tips: I understand that many people travelling to New York for the first time may be a little scared about staying safe while exploring the Big Apple. Like when visiting any big city it is important to always have your wits about you and make smart choices.

Solo Travel Tips: My most recent trip to New York was as a solo traveller. I really enjoyed this trip as I could go to all the places I wanted to without having to consult anyone else. At no point throughout the trip did I feel unsafe or scared of my surroundings. I do have one tip for those planning a solo trip, always be sure to tell a friend or family member your plans for the day. That way they can check in with you to make sure that you are safe.

Budget Tips for New York City

New York is an expensive city, one that is hard to visit on a budget. And for those of you who are familiar with this blog will know that I am most definitely a budget traveller. Now, what I mean by that is when it comes to food, accommodation and transport I tend to opt into the most budget friendly options. I do not however restrict myself when it comes to activities, like say fulfilling my life long dream to see a live broadway show. That’s just too good to miss!

Food Budget Tips: Consider getting food at 11am that acts as a brunch so to speak, Panera Bread is a great option for this! The portions are rather generous and the food is affordable. For Dinner, try to make your own food whenever possible or opt into buying the 1 dollar pizza’s. They HUGE and DELISH! Now, I know this is not the healthiest of options but it keeps your tummy full and bank account happy. As for snacks, I usually buy fruit to keep the cost low and drink water while on the go!

Accommodation Budget Tips: I almost always stay in hostels when travelling solo. It is the easiest way to meet new people but also save some money for activities and experiences. Dorm rooms are extra cheap too!

Transport Budget Tips: I honestly just walk everywhere, I rarely use public transport when abroad unless I am visiting an attraction that is outside the main city. Even if my next stop is an hour and a half away, I usually still decide to walk as you never know what off the beaten things you may come across on your travels. However, in saying that, if walking isn’t your scene I think city bikes is the next best budget friendly option in New York. Or maybe purchase the 7 day subway pass if you are willing to spend a little bit more.

Liked the Post? Pin it for later so it is easier to find again!

If you enjoyed this blog post be sure to check out my vlog down below for extra inspiration for your New York Trip!

Thanks for Reading and I hope you enjoyed. If you have any further questions be sure to reach out to me on Facebook or Instagram. As Always, happy travels and see you in the next blog!

Thanks for Reading!

I hope my San Francisco blog came in handy and helped you plan your trip to the iconic US city. One of my trips to New York was part of a coast to coast road trip with Trek America. If you two are including New York in your US road trip be sure to check out my packing list here.

I have linked some of my favourite stops from my American road trip down below:

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post 4 Day New York Itinerary: Discover NYC’s Top Attractions & Hidden Gems appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

How big is Texas Compared to Europe? (This will SHOCK you?!)

Laura — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:31:52 +0000

How big is Texas Compared to Europe?

Have you ever been curious about how big is Texas compared to Europe? You’ll be surprised to know but Texas is actually pretty big! If you took Texas and placed it over a map of Europe, it would cover a large portion of it. To be more precise, Texas is about 268,597 square miles, while Europe is approximately 3,930,000 square miles. So, Texas is not as big as the whole of Europe, but it’s definitely larger than many European countries! And that is something we never really consider when thinking about states in America. Lets dive in a little deeper to figure out how big Texas really is.

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What countries in Europe are considerably smaller than Texas?

You’ll be shocked by how many European countries Texas overshadows in size. For instance, the United Kingdom, which has an area of 94,060 square miles, is roughly a third of the size of Texas!

Similarly, Greece, with an area of 50,948 square miles could snugly fit into Texas more than 5 times!

And Portugal, covering 35,580 square miles, could fit into Texas nearly 7.5 times. This really puts into perspective how big the US State really is.

What countries in Europe are closest in size to Texas?

In terms of size, the three European countries that come closest to Texas are France, Spain, and Sweden. France, the largest country in Western Europe and third-largest in Europe overall, measures about 213,011 square miles, which is slightly smaller than Texas.

While Spain, with its 194,897 square miles, is a good bit smaller than Texas at 268,597 square miles.

And Sweden, it is smaller than Texas by over a 100,000 square miles with texas having 173,860 square miles to offer.

So, while these countries are closest in size to the US state Texas still wins overall.

What Country in Europe is Bigger than Texas?

In Europe, we have a clear winner when it comes to size. And that is Russia! With its whopping area of approximately 6.602 million square miles, this country is not just the largest in Europe, but it’s also the largest in the world. Indeed, it can fit Texas more than 25 times. Which is CRAZY?!

It is important to note though, that most of Russia’s area extends across Asia, but even the European portion is larger than Texas. So, that’s just proof that not every European country is smaller than Texas!

How big is Europe Compared to Texas? (Map Comparison)

As you can see from the image above Texas is pretty big compared to some countries in Europe. Spanning across some of Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic and Poland.

If Texas Was a Country how large would it be?

If Texas was a country, it would be the 40th largest out of the 193 countries in the world. This makes Texas bigger making Texas bigger than the likes of France and Germany, but still smaller than others like Argentina and Kazakhstan.

How many times does Texas Fit into Europe?

Europe is pretty big, covering approximately 3.93 million square miles. Texas, though the second-largest state in the U.S., is about 268,597 square miles. So, you could fit Texas into Europe around 14.6 times!

How long does it take to drive across Texas vs driving across Europe?

To drive across Texas, you’d be looking at around 10 to 12 hours, depending on your speed and the route you take. That’s pretty much a whole day’s travel!

Now, if you compare that with Europe, it’s a whole different story. Driving from Paris in France to Berlin in Germany, two major cities in Europe, would take roughly around the same time. That’s just one country to the next!

So, if you were to drive across many countries in Europe, it would take several days, maybe even weeks if you’re taking it easy. Now, many factors would need to be taken into consideration here, like landmass and road accessibility.

How long does it take to drive north to south of Texas vs north to south of Europe?

If you’re up for a road trip from the top of Texas to the bottom, buckle up! It would take about 14 to 16 hours, depending on your speed and the route you choose. That’s a long day’s journey, but it’s filled with sights of the great Lone Star State!

On the other hand, a drive from northern Europe – say, Nordkapp, Norway – to southern Europe – let’s pick Tarifa, Spain – takes around 45 to 50 hours. That’s nearly two whole days of driving!

What is the population of Texas vs Europe?

Alright, let’s talk numbers now! Texas, which is pretty big as we’ve seen, is home to around 29 million people. Wow, that’s a lot of people.

But when we look at Europe, it’s a whole different ball game! Europe has a whopping population of around 746 million people. That’s over 25 times the population of Texas!

So, while Texas may be big in terms of land, Europe sure is bustling with people.

What are the cultural similarities between Texas and other European countries?

Even though Texas and Europe are miles apart, you’d be surprised by some cultural similarities! Take hospitality, for instance. Just like in many European countries, Texans are known for their warm, welcoming nature. Love for food is another common thread.

From Texas’s famous barbecues to Italy’s mouth-watering pasta and Spain’s delicious paella, there’s a shared passion for hearty, home-cooked meals.

And let’s not forget about festivals! Be it the lively carnivals of Europe or the vibrant rodeos of Texas, celebrations are a big part of life in both places.

Is Texas bigger than Germany?

Texas is indeed bigger than Germany. Texas is about 268,597 square miles in size, while Germany covers around 138,067 square miles. So, Texas is almost twice as big as Germany. However one thing that may surprise you in this comparison is the population of each.

Germany, even though smaller in size, is quite densely packed. It’s home to around 83 million people! Texas, on the other hand, with all its vast open spaces, has about 29 million people living in it. So, Germany has almost three times as many residents as Texas!

Is France larger than Texas?

When it comes to their sizes, Texas and France are almost in a friendly tug-of-war. Texas is a bit larger, with a land area of 268,597 square miles. France, on the other hand, covers around 213,011 square miles. So, yes, Texas wins by a narrow margin!

Much like Germany, while Texas is larger than France in size, the population is reversed with France being home to over 67 million people.

Is Texas bigger than Ukraine?

Texas is bigger than Ukraine but not by much. Texas occupies around 268,597 square miles, while Ukraine covers about 233,062 square miles.

The post How big is Texas Compared to Europe? (This will SHOCK you?!) appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

California to New York Road Trip: Discover National Parks, Vibrant Cities & Hidden Gems

Laura — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 19:32:23 +0000

California to New York Road Trip

The United States is one of the best countries in the world to go on an epic road trip. It is home to many diverse landscapes and within a matter of hours, you can go from being in an enchanting national park to a vibrant city. No matter what route you decide to take, one thing is for certain, you will be blown away by the beautiful scenery the US has to offer. In this post, we are going to highlight all the wonderful stops you should make if you are considering going on a California to New York Road Trip. But…before we dive deep into our US Road Trip itinerary I wanted to answer some important questions.

Should I go on a self-drive road trip or book an organised tour?

There are pros and cons to both. Going on a preorganised tour gives you a little more peace of mind. You will already have a good indication of how much money you are going to spend, you will have a prearranged itinerary to follow and you will more than likely make lifelong friends along the way.

If you are planning on booking a pre-organised road trip, I recommend checking out companies such as GA Adventures or the Travel Department to find a tour that best suits you. My road trip across America was part of an organised tour with Trek America who sadly is no longer trading, however, it was a trip of a lifetime. I couldn’t recommend group travel more.

However, with that being said, if I was to do the trip for a second time I’d likely rent a car. Purley because I would like to have a little more freedom to stop and start when I want.

California to New York Road Trip Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

How long does Driving from California to New York take?

If you put the drive from California (LA) to New York directly into Google it estimates it would take around 41 hours of non-stop driving.

Of course, this does not take into consideration, gas stops, sleep, food and toilet breaks.

It would take 2,789 miles to drive from one coast to the other.

To be honest, if your goal is to get there quickly I’d advise booking a flight. It would work out much quicker and cheaper in the long run.

You can check out competitive flight prices with Skyscanner.

How much time do I need to go on a Los Angeles to New York Road Trip?

Ideally, to make the most of the trip I would advise spending 3/4 weeks stopping off at all the major highlights and some hidden gems. This particular road trip itinerary will take 26 days. It can however be adapted to suit each individual person, there is a lot of time dedicated to California and New York. Those who are stuck for time could reduce the days spent in these areas.

Grand Teton National Park (One of the Stops )

What is a Better Route? New York to LA or LA to New York?

Honestly, I don’t think it really matters. At the end of the day, you will still get to opportunity to see the same epic locations.

I would go with whatever option is easiest for you. Check the rental car prices on both ends and how much the return flight will cost. That way you can make the most cost-effective decision.

I personally started my coast to coast road trip in New York. And, due to the success of the post, I decided to reverse my itinerary to help those who want to start in California.

Both routes are equally as beautiful!

What should I budget for my Los Angeles to New York Road Trip?

It is almost impossible for me to answer this question as it always comes down to individual circumstances. For example, on my road trip, I spent around $3,500 dollars in total. Which is incredibly cheap for a trip of this kind. However, I booked a prearranged tour which was around 2,500, which included the cost of most food, accommodation, some activities and gas. I went on a budget-friendly trip, I made most of my own food, camped or stayed in hostels and drank a limited amount of alcohol. The budget for a US road trip can range anywhere from $160 dollars a day to $300 a day depending on your preference.

What should I pack for a LA to New York Road Trip?

Packing for a road trip is never an easy task, that is why I have created this in-depth packing guide to ensure you don’t forget anything. I will however list the essentials down below.

Waterproof Jacket
Hiking Boots (<- my favourite brand)
A Day Bag (<- Also my favourite)
A torch/Headlight (for hiking)
Travel First Aid Kit
Water Bottle (The Tap Water is Drinkable)
Camera (Essential)
A Rucksack (Women/Men)

California to New York Road Trip Itinerary

Ok, so before we dive deep into the itinerary. I just wanted to note that some of the stops mentioned are only suited for the Spring and Summer months as the roads are closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall and ice. For those of you from LA, I recommend skipping days 1-3 as they feature things to do in the Los Angeles area.

Santa Monica, California, United States

Day 1: Santa Monica & Venice

The first stop on our road trip is the beautiful seaside areas of Santa Monica and Venice.

Santa Monica is a beautiful beachside town famous for being the backdrop for many movies and films. Spend the morning going for a stroll along the beach and checking out the amusements on the pier.

If you like shopping then I’d advise taking a walk towards Santa Monica Boulevard for some retail therapy.

I’d then advise walking along the pier towards Muscle Beach. This is basically an outdoor gymnasium. It is common to see incredibly fit people training along the beachfront.

A little further down the boardwalk lies Venice. A hipster-like area with crafty shops and businesses. My favourite part about Venice is the canals, just like in Italy. This is a lovely spot to go for a walkabout and watch the sunset.

Day 1: Highlights

Santa Monica Beach, Boardwalk & Amusements
Santa Monica Boardwalk for retail therapy
Muscel Beach
Venice Beach & Canals

Where to Stay in Santa Monica?

For the first three days of our LA to New York Road Trip, we are going to base ourselves in the Los Angeles area. Therefore, it is a good idea to find one area you want to stay in for the 3-day duration. Santa Monica/Venice is the perfect spot in my opinion. Below are some accommodation options for all budgets.

Budget-Friendly Option: HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel (My Favourite Hostel Chain in the States)

Mid-Range Option: SureStay Hotel by Best Western

High-End Option: Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Disneyland California, United States

Day 2: Disneyland or Universal Studios

Day two of our US Road Trip is all about that movie magic. Choose between a trip to Disneyland or Hollywood Studios.

I have been to both, and…This is coming from a big Disney Buff…but…if I had to choose between the two. I’d choose Universal. Gasp! I know. I feel like I am betraying Disney or something.

But… Universal Studios Hollywood offers two very cool and unique experiences.

The first being, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You quite literally feel like you are walking around the movie set. It is so cool. The rides are also top-notch for any adrenaline junkies out there.

Built into the price of the Universal ticket is the World Famous Studio Tour. You get to go backstage and experience the sets of real-life movies and tv shows. Besides, you never know who you might see. You can book your tickets here.

For those leaning towards a trip to Disneyland, I recommend the California Adventure park for those who love rides and attractions and the main Disneyland park for those looking to experience so Disney Magic (this is the one with Sleeping Beauty’s Castle).

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California, United States Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Day 3: Hollywood & LA

There is so much to see and do in the Hollywood area that it would be hard to sum it all up in one short paragraph.

I am going to highlight some of my favourite experiences to help you choose how to spend the day.

The first would be a hike up to see the iconic Hollywood Sign. There are three different trails that range in difficulty. You can find out more information about each here.

Another great spot to visit is the Griffith Observatory. The walk from the parking lot takes about 20 minutes to complete and offers insane views of the Los Angeles Skyline.

One of my favourite ‘Hollywood’ experiences is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. As part of this experience, you have the chance to walk around the sets of iconic films and shows such as Friends, Gilmore Girls and Pretty Little Liars. The set is used every day for productions so you never know who you may see as you walk around. It is honestly one of the best experiences I did on my trip to LA. You can book your ticket here.

If you like getting a few Insta Worthy snaps, then I’d consider taking a trip down towards Melrose Avenue. Here you can capture some pictures with the famous LA Walls.

To end the day, I’d recommend making your way to Hollywood Boulevard and going for a stroll along the Walk of Fame. Now, if I am being honest, ‘Hollywood’ is not as glamorous as it is made seem online. However, it is certainly an experience to tick off the bucket list at least once.

Day 3: Highlights

Hike to the Hollywood Sign
Griffith Observatory Viewpoint
Warner Bros Studio Tour
LA’s Famous Instagram Walls
Hollywood Boulevard

Day 4: Long Drive Day Via Big Sur

Throughout our road trip from California to New York, we are going to have a few days that I will refer to a ‘Drive Days’. This is inevitable when road trippin’ a country as big as the United States.

The Big Sur, California, United States

The fourth day is the first Drive Day of our trip and I recommend waking up early. We need to make our way from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

Luckily, there is a beautiful coastal route that takes up a large portion of the drive. This is known as the Big Sur.

The Big Sur is a 90-mile coastal drive that runs along California’s Pacific Coast.

The coastal section of the drive takes about 4 hours to complete and is home to many wonderful viewpoints and towns.

A little prior warning, cell phone service is limited in some areas along the drive. So, if you are relying on google maps to guide the way it may be best to download the maps before your journey.

There are so many wonderful places to stop and explore along the Pacific Coast. Below are some of the Big Sur Highlights. As the drive is rather long it will not be possible to fit them all in in one day. Unless you decide to stay the night.

The Iconic McWay Falls
Pfeiffer Beach
The famous Bixby Creek Bridge
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Carmel-by-the-Sea Town (Good Stop Off for some food)

The Drive to San Francisco via the Big Sur takes around 8 hours without stops. As it is a long drive day it is best to get a good night sleep and not be tempted to go out and explore San Francisco that night.

Los Angeles to San Fran Drive Duration: 8 Hours

Places to stay in San Francisco for all Budgets

Budget-Friendly Option: HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel (I stayed here and the location is perfect and it is a great spot for solo travellers or those looking to make new friends)

Budget-Friendly Hotel Option: Hotel Majestic (Tripadvisors to find the Best Price)

Mid Range Option: The Westin St. Francis (Find the Best Price Here) (I also stayed here, it’s in a prime location, Union Square. The building is historic and a lovely spot to walk around. They also have a ballroom-style room up the top that boasts an insane view of Union Square down below).

Luxury Option: San Francisco Proper Hotel (Check Prices)

The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco bay Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Day 5/6: San Francisco

Next, we are going to spend 2 days in San Francisco. One of the most iconic cities in the US.

There is so much to see and do in that I have made a detailed guide on how to spend 2 days in San Francisco.

I’d highly recommend taking a trip out to Alcatraz Island. A little bit of prior warning, this trip books out weeks in advance so it is best to book now to avoid disappointment.

Another great activity to take part in is the San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise. Here, you get the opportunity to see San Fran from a whole new perspective.

And if you are lucky you will also be treated to an epic sunset. It was by far one of my favourite activities from my trip to the Golden City. Check tour prices here.

San Francisco Highlights:

Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
Lombard Street
Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
Sunset Cruise
The Painted Ladies
Alcatraz Island

Day 7: Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, California, United States

Day 8: Yosemite

On the eighth day of our Los Angeles to New York drive, we will make our way to Yosemite National Park. The park is a 3/4 hour drive from San Francisco.

Yosemite is one of the most iconic National Park in the country and a must-add to any US itinerary!

I have a detailed blog post on how to best spend 2 days in Yosemite for those of you who would like to read a more detailed guide.

I recommend spending the first day exploring Tenaya Lake, Olmsted Point and Tuolumne Grove Trailhead.

The second day is one for hiking. I personally enjoy the Mist Trail, there are, however, many wonderful trails to choose from.

I recommend spending the evening driving around the park, stopping at some of the iconic viewpoints such as Tunnel View. Just be mindful, that traffic throughout the park can get heavy, especially when there is wildlife obstructing the way. It is important to be extra cautious when driving.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Budget-Friendly Option: Yosemite Lakes Thousand Trails Preserve (This is where I camped, the location is perfect and ideal for those on a budget)

Lodge Option: Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

Cottage Option: Homestead Cottages

Great Deal Option: Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite

Day 9: Drive from Yosemite to Tahoe

The ninth day of our road trip starts with a journey to Lake Tahoe. It will take around 4 and a half hours to reach Yosemite National

Lake Tahoe, California, United States Purchased Stock from DepositPhotos

Day 10: Lake Tahoe

The 10th day of our California to New York Road Trip brings us to the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe.

This is a wonderful place to spend the day relaxing! It’s important to give yourself some well earned ‘Day’s Off’.

Sometimes we forget to factor in some downtime while travelling.

I recommend spending the morning by the lake, admiring the views of the crystal clear emerald water or maybe even going for a swim.

In the evening time, why not chance your arm at some watersports. I went parasailing over the lake and it was one of the best experiences from the trip.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

The Lake Tahoe area is actually rather big and expands between two states, California and Nevada. I stayed on the South Side of the Lake which is located in Cali. Below are an example of places to stay.

Budget-Friendly Option: Blue lake Inn @ Heavenly Village (Check Prices Here)

Mid Range Option: Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa (This one opens out onto the lake <3) (Find the Best Price Here)

Luxury Option: The Landing Resort and Spa (Check Prices)

Day 11: Drive Day Via Twin Falls

The 11th day of our Coast to Coast road trip is a long drive day. I’d advise waking up super early and hitting the road.

We will be driving to Jackson Hole in Wyoming. This is one of the longest drives of the trip, taking 12 hours in total.

I’d recommend making a few stops along the way. Including a break at the beautiful Twin Falls in Idaho.

Now, don’t let this long drive deter you as Jackson Hole is the gateway to two iconic National Parks, Grand Teton and Yellowstone.

Where to stay in Jackson Hole

Budget-Friendly Option: Jackson Hole KOA Campsite (Where I stayed)

Mid Range Option: 49’er Inn & Suites

High-End Option: Snow King Resort

Luxury Option: SpringHill Suites

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, US Purchased Stock Photography from Depositphotos

Day 12: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is a wonderful town that boasts insane views of the beautiful Teton Range. It’s located in the state of Wyoming, which is regarded as one of the US friendliest states.

It is also the perfect spot for all those Adrenaline Junkies out there as it is home to a range of adventure activities.

On my trip to Jackson Hole, I went White Water Rafting along the Snake River. It was one of the highlights of my US Road Trip. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking to spice up their itinerary.

If white water rafting is a little too adventurous for your liking they do also offer raft cruises minus the intense rapids. These tours are great for those wanting to take in the area’s beauty from the waterfront.

Following a fun morning, I recommend heading back to your accommodation for a quick shower before spending the night on the town.

Every evening Jacksonhole put on a Cow Boy Shoutout performance. Which is extremely entertaining.

I would also recommend checking out the Million Dollar Cowboy for some drinks afterwards. Don’t drink too much though as day 13 is a good one

Where to stay in Jackson Hole

Budget-Friendly Option: Jackson Hole KOA Campsite (Where I stayed)

Mid Range Option: 49’er Inn & Suites

High-End Option: Snow King Resort

Luxury Option: SpringHill Suites

Grand Teton, Wyoming, United States

Day 13: Grand Teton

The 13th day of our California to New York Road Trip takes us to the breathtaking, Grand Teton National Park.

And while it is possible to spend weeks exploring the beauty of the park. We only have one day so it is best to wake up bright and early to make the most of it.

I recommend spending most of your day exploring and hiking around String and Jenny Lake.

I have a detailed guide on how to best spend one day in Grand Teton for those looking for more information. Please be mindful, for the Grand Teton Itinerary to fit in with our road trip it is best to reverse it.

Where to stay in Grand Teton

Once you have finished exploring the park I’d recommend making your way back to Jackson for the night. As the next stop is Yellowstone and accommodation options are limited on the Teton of the park.

Budget-Friendly Option: Jackson Hole KOA Campsite (Where I stayed)

Mid Range Option: 49’er Inn & Suites

High-End Option: Snow King Resort

Luxury Option: SpringHill Suites

Yellowstone National Park

Day 14/15: Yellowstone

Next, we are going to spend 2 days in Yellowstone, one of the most iconic National Parks in the US.

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in the park.

I recommend waking up nice and early in order to fit in as much as possible.

Yellowstone is a short drive from Jackson Hole. I do, however, recommend booking accommodation in West Yellowstone for day 14.

On the 15th day, I recommend looking for places to stay in Cody, a town located on the outskirts of the park. Below is a list of places for all budgets in both locations.

Where to stay in Yellowstone

Camping Option: Grant Village Campground (Where I Stayed)

Glamping Option: Wander Camp Yellowstone (Check Prices & Reviews Here)

Mid-Range Option: Gray Wolf Inn & Suites (Compare Prices)

High End (locations perfect) Option: Old Faithful Inn

Where to Stay in Cody

Camping Option: Cody KOA campsite (Where I stayed)

B&B Option: Robins Nest Bed & Breakfast

Mid-Range Option: Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites

Devils Tower National Monument Purchased Stock Photography from Depositphotos

Day 16: Drive Day via Devils Tower

After spending two exciting days exploring Yellowstone you are going to be feeling rather tired.

I’d recommend, taking it easy in the morning time. Perhaps have a lie on in bed before check out and then go for a walk around Cody.

Once you are ready it is time to hit the road towards Devils Tower.

The drive is just over five hours long. If you arrive with time to spare I recommend going for a walk around Devils Tower.

The tower is a composed igneous rock formation located in the Black Hills region in Wyoming.

The walk is 1.3 miles long and takes about 45minutes to complete. While it is not overly difficult it can be steep for a short period.

Where to Stay at Devils Tower

Devils Tower is in a rather remote location. I camped right beside the iconic landmark in the Devils Tower KOA. This is a lovely spot that overlooks the rock formation from the campsite. It also has fantastic facilities like clothes washing stations (at a fee), a swimming pool, a movie projector and hot showers. We will be exploring Mount Rushmore and Badlands the following day so I have highlighted some alternative places to stay in the Black Hills Region down below.

Where to stay in the Black Hills Region

Budget-Friendly Option: Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

Great Location: Ramada by Wyndham Keystone (Near Mountain Rushmore)

Cabin Option: Powder House Lodge

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, United States

Day 17: Mount Rushmore & Badlands National Park

Next, on our LA to NY Road Trip is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of the United States. And that is Mount Rushmore.

I recommend getting there early as it gets extremely busy throughout the day. It is free to visit the monument, however, at the time of writing, parking costs $5.

Nearby Mount Rushmore lies the Crazy Horse memorial. While this is a popular site among tourists. I’d advise giving it a skip, I personally don’t believe the attraction is worth the entrance fee.

Instead, continue on along the road toward the striking Badlands National Park. There are so many wonderful viewpoints and hikes in Badlands to explore.

Where to stay in Badlands

I stayed in the Badlands and White River KOA and witnessed one of the craziest nights of the trip. In the late evening where were faced with a storm that caused bursts of rain showers and sheet lightning. Due to the red rocks surrounding the campsite, the sky was lit up in a dusty red colour. It was truly remarkable, we then witnessed a breathtaking sunset and night sky perfect for stargazing. I’d high recommend staying in Badlands and White River KOA if you plan on camping.

Mid-Range Option 1: Best Western Plains Motel

Mid-Range Option 2: Americas Best Value Inn Wall

Day 18: Drive/Relax Day (Lake Okoboji)

The 18th day depends on whether you would like to take a rest day. If so, I recommend spending the morning exploring some more of Badlands National Park. Before hitting the road towards Lake Okoboji for a rest along the water. This is a 5-hour drive and the perfect place to spend some downtime. I recommend camping at Gull Point State Park Campground.

Alternatively, You could drive straight to the next destination which is the iconic city of Chicago. This drive will take just over 12 hours to complete, and require an early start.

Willis Tower, Chicago, Illinois, United States

Day 19/20: Chicago

The next 2 days will be spent exploring all there is to do in Chicago.

Take some time to check out some of the cities iconic landmarks such as the Big Bean, Buckingham Fountain and Lake Michigan.

A trip up to Willis Tower’s Sky Deck is a must for anyone looking to view the city from a rather scary/high perspective.

I’d also highly advise exploring the city by electric bike. This is one of my favourite memories from my trip to Chicago. Such a fun and alternative way to see the major sites.

For dinner buy some world-famous Chicago deep-dish pizza pie. I have never tasted anything like it <3 It was D-E-L-IOUS.

And finally, if time allows, I recommend booking tickets to a cubs game, the atmosphere is amazing and super fun. Even, like me, you have no clue how baseball works

Top Things to do in Chicago:

Willis Tower Sky Deck
See the Big Bean
Go to a CUBS game
Bobby’s Bike Tour (One of the BEST things to do in Chicago)
Walk the waterfront
Buckingham Fountain
Deep Dish Pizza

Cedar Point, Sandusky Purchased Stock Photography from Depositphotos

Day 21: Shipshewana & Cedar Point

Next, it is time to leave the craziness of Chicago behind and head to the next location which is Cedar Point in Sandusky Ohio.

This drive will take just over 5 hours to complete. I advise stopping in a small town called Shipshewana along the way.

The town is home to many of those from the Amish community. I will explain the wonderful experience I had here, a little later in the post.

Cedar Point is an amusement park that offers an evening ticket. Unfortunely, on my trip we were faced with a storm and most of the rides were closed. We decided to stay in and relax for the night instead. However, fingers crossed that is not the case on your trip. You can book your tickets here.

My experience in Shipshewana:

As I was passing by my friends and I stopped in a local park for a bite to eat. There, we had the opportunity to talk with a local Amish family.

I must admit it was one of my favourite moments from my trip to the states. The mainstream media often portray those from the Amish Community as ‘weird’ or ‘odd’. However, this was the last thing I thought after leaving Shipshewana.

Yes, the Amish live different lifestyles to modern-day Americans, however, they were some of the kindest people I met on my travels.

I was on my road trip with 13 solo travellers from around the world. The family was blown away that we had all met through an organised tour and didn’t know each other 4 days prior.

We spent around 2 hours exchanging stories and teaching each other about our cultures. It was honestly a lovely experience, one I will never forget. And, yes, I needed my American/English friends to translate for my strong Irish accent

Where I Stayed in Sandusky

Budget-Friendly Place to Camp: Sandusky KOA Campground (I stayed in the little cabins to wait out the storm. They are perfect for families or a small group of friends).

Where else to Stay in Sandusky

Budget-Friendly Option: South Shore Inn

Mid Range/Budget Option: Cedar Point’s Express Hotel

Mid Range/Budget Option 2: Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Spectacular rainbow near tourist boat at Niagara Falls Purchased Stock Photography from Depositphotos

Day 22/23: Niagara Falls

The next stop on Los Angels to New York Road Trip is the AMAZING Niagara Falls!

Now, this is a stop you don’t wanna skip. These falls are even more mighty in person than in the iconic pictures.

The drive from Sandusky to Niagara takes just over 4 hours to complete. Once you arrive I recommend checking into your accommodation for the night. Then, head for a stroll along one of the most famous attractions in North America.

At night, the falls are illuminated with a beautiful firework display. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.

The following morning wake up bright and early to jump on board the Maid of the Mist tour. This is a must for anyone visiting the iconic Niagara Falls. The tour allows you to get up close and personal with the mighty falls. Just be prepared to get soaked.

Following the boat tour, I recommend walking around the grounds of Niagara Falls, taking them in from every viewpoint.

Places to Stay at Niagara Falls

Camping Option: Niagara Falls KOA Campsite (Where I Stayed)

Great Deal Option: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York

Swimming Pool Option: Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

Day 24: Drive to NYC

Day 24 is our last Drive Day of the trip, jump in the car nice and early and head toward the famous New York City. The drive from Niagara Falls will take around 7 hours to complete so I recommend stopping off a few times throughout the journey. It is also a good idea to download an epic road trip playlist for the ride.

Where to stay in New York

Budget-Friendly Option: HI NYC Hostel

Great Deal Option: Radisson Hotel New York Wall Street

High-End Option: Fairfield Inn & Suites

Luxury Option: Royalton Park Avenue

New York City Skyline

Day 26/30: New York City

The final stop on our New York to California Road Trip is none other than The Big Apple itself.

I recommend spending, 3 to 4 days exploring one of the worlds most famous cities.

And, don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back, because you just made it to the other coast <3

If you are looking for the top things to do in NYC, then I advise checking out my in-depth New York Travel Guide.

It is full of the top tourist attractions, hidden gems and I may even tell you how you can see a TV show tapping for FREE!

California to New York Road Trip Map

Thank you so much for reading. I hope this helps you with planning your California to New York Road Trip. Below is a map of all the stops mentioned above.

Check out a full video trailer of my US Coast to Coast Road Trip

I documented my US Road Trip starting in New York over on my youtube channel. If you would like to catch a glimpse of all the wonderful places you will get to see be sure to check it out.

Disclaimer: Please note that some blog posts on LiveAdventureTravel contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a commission on purchases through those links. This is of course at no extra cost to you.

Live Adventure Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

The post California to New York Road Trip: Discover National Parks, Vibrant Cities & Hidden Gems appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

One Day in Grand Teton: How to see the Parks Major Highlights

Laura — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 15:06:10 +0000

One Day in Grand Teton Itinerary: String Lake

One Day in Grand Teton: How to see the Parks Major Highlights

Grand Teton is one of the most underrated National Park in the US and a must on any American Road Trip. It is home to astonishing backdrops, scenic lakes and world-class hiking trails. The park is also one of the best places to visit for those looking to catch a glimpse of the captivating wildlife. Yet, even with all these wonderful features the Teton’s still remains under the radar compared to its famous neighbour, Yellowstone National Park. If you happen to be in Wyoming, I recommend spending at least One Day in Grand Teton National Park. I promise it is a must on anyone’s US Bucket List.

Before we dive into our Grand Teton One Day Itinerary, let’s first discuss a few points you need to know before your visit.

Do I Need to Rent a Car to Visit Grand Teton?

While renting a car is not essential in order to explore the Beauty of the National Park. I’d definitely advise doing so when possible. Those who have access to their own vehicle will have a lot more time to explore on their own accord. And I promise you will want to stop A LOT when driving through the Tetons. Expedia offers competitive car rentals that are located in Jackson Hole Airport (the nearest airport to the Tetons).

Are there any organised tours around Grand Teton?

If you don’t want to drive, don’t worry, you can still experience the beauty of Grand Teton National Park. There are plenty of organised day tours that sort out your transport on your behalf.

Just be careful as not all tours include the entrance fee into the park. For example, this tour picks you up from your accommodation in either Jackson Hole or the Teton Village. However, the ticket price does not include admission.

This full-day tour, however, picks you up from the same locations, includes admission into the park, many beautiful stopping points and a boat ride across Jenny Lake. In my opinion, this particular tour is much better value for money.

You can also take part in a Wildlife Spotting Tour. Again, this tour does not include admission, however, the main focus is on wildlife. Which I must admit would be a pretty cool experience to have an expert bring you around the park.

How do I get to Grand Teton?

There are two main ways to reach the National Park, by car or plane.

Many decide to combine both Grand Teton and Yellowstone into one road trip. If you plan to do the same then you will enter the park via the Moran Entrance. On the other end of the park lies the Moose entrance.

There are 3 airports in and around Grand Teton.

The closest airport is Jackson Hole, which is quite literally located in the Teton Range. Flights into Jackson can be a little bit on the pricy side, however, in my opinion, it ways out of the other options which are long driving routes.

The nearest Airports next to Jackson is Salt Lake City which is a 5-hour drive and Denver which is an 8-hour drive away. Don’t forget to check out Skyscanner for competitive flights.

Is it free to enter Grand Teton National Park?

Unfortunely, entrance into the National Park is not free. In fact, it ranges depending on your vehicle type and the purpose of your visit. Below is a sample of the most popular entries.

No entrance fee is charged for the John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway.

Grand Teton Private Vehicle Fee: $35.00

Grand Teton Motorcycle Fee: $30.00

Grand Teton Hiker/Biker Fee: $20.00

These fees allow you to stay for a total of 7 days.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, US – Purchased Stock Photography from Depositphotos

Where is best to stay when visiting Grand Teton?

There are two towns near in and around the National Park, the Teton Village and Jackson Hole. I personally stayed in Jackson Hole and loved it. It’s a lovely spot to walk around, admire the surrounding mountain views and go for a few drinks on the town at night. Below are some places to stay in Jackson.

Budget-Friendly Option: Jackson Hole KOA Campsite (Where I stayed)

Mid Range Option: 49’er Inn & Suites

High-End Option: Snow King Resort

Luxury Option: SpringHill Suites

What to Pack for a Trip to Grand Teton?

I visited Grand Teton while on my coast to coast Road Trip across the US. If you too are planning a road trip, I’d advise checking out my packing list for an in-depth guide on what to bring. I have highlighted below the essentials for one day in Grand Teton.

Waterproof Jacket
Hiking Boots (<- my favourite brand)
A Day Bag (<- Also my favourite)
A torch/Headlight (for hiking)
Travel First Aid Kit
Water Bottle (The Tap Water is Drinkable)
Camera (Essential)
Bear Spray
Insect Repellant

One Day in Grand Teton: Must See Attractions

Ok, so now that we have covered all you need to know before spending 1 Day in Grand Teton it is time to move on with the itinerary. This guide is following a route starting from Yellowstone National Park (The Moran Entrance). If you are entering Grand Teton via Jackson Hole (The Moose Entrance), I’d advise doing this Grand Teton 1 Day Itinerary in reverse. If you are coming from Jackson Hole Airport you may need to move some stops around to best suit your needs and accommodation for the night.

It is important to note, that this is a summer itinerary as the Teton Park Road closes from November to May due to heavy snowfall and icey conditions.

One Day in Grand Teton: The Grand Teton Sign

Stop 1: Jackson Lake Overlook, The Teton Sign & The Moran Gate

As you leave Yellowstone behind and begin to approach Grand Teton National Park, you will drive past a beautiful viewpoint known as Jackson Lake Lookout.

I recommend taking a moment to enjoy the stunning view as this is the first time you will see the Tetons rugged landscape.

Once you have finished admiring the view, drive a few more minutes down the road until you reach the iconic Grand Teton Sign.

A picture with the sign is almost essential. After all, it’s another National Park ticked off the bucket list.

The Moran Gate is located just a short drive from the sign. It’s important to note that there may be a wait in the summer months. It will cost you $35 per vehicle, which will allow you to stay up to 7 days in the National Park.

Colter Bay Village, Grand Teton, Wyoming, United States

Stop 2: Colter Bay Village

The first official stop on our Grand Teton Itinerary is the captivating Colter Bay.

When I first visited back in 2018, this was the moment I fell in love with the Tetons. I stood in awe as the majestic mountain range reflected upon Jackson Lake.

There is a trailhead located at Colter Bay known as Hermitage Point Trail. It’s a 15.4-kilometre long loop and takes on average 3/4 hours to complete. If you would like to take part in this loop check out All Trails for more detail.

Once you have finished taking in the scenic lakeside scenery. I’d advise popping into the Visitor Centre for a browse. If you are in need of any snacks or a beverage here is a good place to buy them. There are also toilet facilities onsite.

Teton Park Road

Stop 3: Teton Park Road

Once you have finished admiring the beauty of Colter Bay. It is time to drive towards Teton Park Road.

Most of our Grand Teton in One Day Itinerary has us driving along Park Road. However, I wanted to put it down as an official stop as there are many viewpoints along the way worth noting, such as Potholes Turnout and Mount Moran Turnout.

The scenic road also makes for a great photo opp. Of course, always take precautions when taking a photo like the one seen to the left. Watch out for oncoming traffic before stepping out onto the road. I was there rather early in the morning and was lucky to avoid peak hours.

Stop 4: String Lake

Continue driving along Park Road until you see signs pointing toward String Lake. Parking is Free onsite, and there is plenty of spaces available.

* Tip: Get there early, this walk is quite popular, the busy period can be avoided by arriving as early as possible. You never know, you may even be treated with an epic reflection*

String Lake, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA

Activity 1: Hike String Lake Trailhead

Once you get out of the car it is time to start the first activity of the day. An adventurous hike around the beautiful String Lake.

The String Lake Trailhead begins at the lakes picnic area, it then continues through the raw forestry and eventually opens out to a panoramic viewpoint.

The walk is 4.4 miles in total and takes about 1 hour and a half to complete depending on your fitness level. The hike falls into the category of easy to moderate. You can find out more information on the difficulty of the hike from the All Trails App.

The trail is a popular place for wildlife sightings such as bears and moose.

It is surrounded by astonishing evergreens tree’s, snow-capped mountains and pristine waters.

About 1.4 miles into the hike, as you cross over the bridge, there is an option to divert towards the East shoreline of Leigh Lake. If you wish to stay on the String Lake Trailhead I’d advise giving this option a miss and continuing along the looped trail.

From that point the trail begins to gear upwards, you can no longer see the lake as the hill continues for about one mile. When the trail opens back up again, walkers are presented with a birdseye view. Which is truly breathtaking. As you near closer to the lake, the trail began to turn downhill at a rapid pace. Towards the end of the string lake loop, there is an outstanding view of Mount Moran peaking over the Trailhead.

The best part about this hike is the tranquillity. It is nice to take a moment to appreciate all the beauty Grand Teton has to offer.

One Day in Grand Teton: Swimming in String Lake Grand Teton

Activity 2: Lunch and a swim in String Lake

The trailhead ends back where it starts, at the picnic area.

This is the perfect opportunity to stop for a scenic bite to eat. I’d advise bringing a packed lunch for the day.

Take some time here, to enjoy the surrounding mountain views and the glassy lake surface.

String Lake is said to be one of the best swimming spots in all of the Grand Tetons.

So, for those of you planning a trip, It may be a good idea to bring along some swimwear.

Just a little prior warning, the water is FREEZING. Even in the summer months.

Stop 2: Jenny Lake

Following a refreshing dip in String Lake, it’s time to hop back in the car and drive to the next stop of the day, Jenny Lake. The drive between stops is incredibly scenic, so, expect to stop once or twice. In fact, there are two driving routes, you can either make your way back to the Tetons Park Road or Drive along Jenny Lake Road.

Jenny Lake, Grand Teton, Wyoming, US purchased stock photography from Depositphotos

Jenny Lake Option 1: Hike Jenny Lake Trail Head

The next activity on our Grand Teton One Day Itinerary is a hike around Jenny Lake.

The Trailhead starts at the main parking lot, however, this does get rather busy. If you don’t want the hassle of finding a spot to park I have an alternative solution.

It is a 3-mile walk from String Lake to Jenny Lake, which can be seen on the official String Lake Trailhead Map. That way you don’t have the hassle of moving your car.

The Jenny Lake Trailhead is a 7.7-mile hike and can take anywhere from 2/4 hours to complete depending on what route you take. You can find details on the hike through the All Trails Website.

Below, I will walk you through the route I took. Which took a little over two hours to complete.

The trails ascent begins at the Jenny Lake Visitor Centre, where you have the opportunity to admire the views of the lake from ground level. The walk then continues towards the first point of interest which is the Hidden Falls.

This part of the trail is rather uphill and can be strenuous in places, I recommend bringing a good pair of hiking books along with you (these are my favourites).

Hidden Falls in Grand Teton National Park Purchased Stock Photography at Depositphotos

Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point

The Falls are located off to the left of the trail. In fact, they live up to their name, tucked away neatly into the side of the Mountain. You can hear them before you see them. It’s a beautiful spot to take a moment to watch the water flow into the beautiful river below.

Once you have taken in the beauty of the Hidden Falls it is time to walk back towards the main trailhead.

Continue on up to the mountain. While this climb is not as steep as the initial ascent, it is far more narrow and has a rather uneven surface. I’d advise taking some caution as you walk along the edge.

At this point, the view starts to open up to a Panoramic view of Jenny Lake. It is a truly remarkable sight.

A little further on is the next major viewpoint known as Inspiration Point. This is the perfect place to take a rest upon the rocks and reflect on the beauty of the Tetons. From Inspiration point, you will see Jenny Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Jenny Lake, the view on the way to Inspiration Point

The way back down

The trailhead continues on in a loop from Inspiration Point, however, I decided to retrace my steps as I was getting hungry. It took about 40 minutes to reach the starting point.

The visitor centre sells ice cream and ice pops which are the perfect rewards for a day full of hiking.

The Jenny Lake Trailhead was my favourite hike in Grand Teton National Park.

The views from the trail are breathtaking and wildlife spotting opportunities are endless.

We even saw a Moose hiding in the tree’s just a little past the initial viewpoint. Those guys are MUCH larger than I thought.

The boat Jenny Lake Grand Teton National Park purchased stock photography at DepositPhotos

Option 2: Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat

For those of you not wanting to do any more major hiking, there is an option to take the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake.

From the docking station, you can opt into hiking towards the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. This method takes about an hour off the hike.

Information on the Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat:

A one-way journey costs $9 and a return journey cost $15 dollars and runs frequently throughout the day.
The boat operates from mid-May till late September.
The boat transports passengers from the east to the west of the lake.

The Teton Park Road

Stop 3: Continue Along Park Road

As you leave Jenny Lake behind, it is time to continue on down the scenic Teton Park Road.

Again, there are plenty of beautiful stop-offs along the way including, the Teton Glacier Turnout, Taggart Lake Trailhead and the Chapel of the Transfiguration.

After making a few stops you will reach the Grand Teton National Park Sign on the Moose entrance/exit of the park. In my opinion, the area surrounding this sign is more picturesque than the Moran Entrance. I’d advise jumping out of the car to catch a snap with it.

Before, continuing on towards the town of Jackson Hole for the night.

Downtown Jackson Hole in Wyoming USA Purchased Stock Photography from Depositphotos

Stop 4: Jackson Hole

After the adventurous day hiking the Tetons, head back to your accommodation for the night.

I’d advise booking a hotel in the Jackson Hole area. There is so much to do in the evening time in the beautiful little town.

In the summer months, there is a cowboy shootout show every night that starts at 6.00 pm. I honestly didn’t know what to expect with this show but I have to say it was brilliant. I laughed the whole way through.

Finish the night off with some food and drinks on the town. I recommend visiting the million-dollar cowboy bar, it is a lot of fun!

Tips before visiting Grand Teton National Park

Weather: Grand Teton’s temperatures can be a little unpredictable. I’d advise packing layers and taking them off as the day goes on. I started the day off in a pair of jog pants and three sweaters and finished the day in a pair of shorts and a tank top.

One Day in Grand Teton: Be Bear Aware

Bear Spray: I’d advise bringing bear spray. Grand Teton is a part of bear country and it is a good idea to always be prepared. Be Bear Aware!

Bug Spray: If you are like me and are absolutely adored by mosquitos. I advised packing some well-needed bug spray to avoid an itchy situation.

Food Storage: Due to the high level of bears in the area. Hikers and campers are required to store food in provided food storage units.

Sun Protection: I’d advise bringing sun protection as some of the trails are quite open, exposing hikers to regular sunlight.

Don’t forget your camera: The Tetons are too beautiful to forget to bring a camera. Who doesn’t want to capture all these unforgettable experiences?

Yellowstone National Park

Things to do Near Grand Teton National Park

If you are visiting Grand Teton I’d highly recommend extending your trip by adding at least 2 days in Yellowstone. Both parks are located just a short distance from each other and it would be a shame to miss out on their beauty when in the area.

You could also spend an extra day in Jackson and go rafting down Snake River. This is a wonderful experience for those Adrenaline Junkies out there!

No matter what you decide to do, I know you will have a fantastic time <3 Thank you for taking the time to read my Grand Teton One Day Itinerary! Hope you have a wonderful trip and if you have any questions be sure to leave a comment down below.

Disclaimer: Live Adventure Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Please note, that I may make a small commission through Affiliate links at no extra cost to you.

The post One Day in Grand Teton: How to see the Parks Major Highlights appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

2 days in Yellowstone National Park Itinerary

Laura — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 23:40:00 +0000

2 Days in Yellowstone: Yellowstone National Park Sign

2 days in Yellowstone National Park

No matter where you are from in the world, odd’s are you have heard about the breathtaking beauty of Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone is one of the most iconic landscapes on the planet, a natural playground for hikers, explorers and outdoor lovers. It is the perfect addition to a US Road Trip. It can be hard to see all of which Yellowstone has to offer in a short period of time, however, this itinerary will guide you through the highlights. So, if you are a little bit stuck for time but still dream about ticking Yellowstone National Park off your US Bucket List then keep on reading because this 2 Days in Yellowstone itinerary is perfect for you!

Yellowstone 2 Day Itinerary: Know Before You Go!

Yellowstone is unique, it is home to erupting geysers, beautiful flowing waterfalls and some of the most diverse natural landscapes in the world. Planning a trip to Yellowstone for the first time can be tricky. There is so much to see and do and it is easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why I have put together a quick guide on things you need to know before visiting Yellowstone National Park.

Getting to Yellowstone:

The easiest way to get to Yellowstone National Park is by driving. Unfortunately, Yellowstone is not really near any major towns or villages making it a little bit difficult to fly into. However, with that being said there are a few smaller airports within Yellowstone’s proximity, such as Yellowstone’s own airport located in the West of the Park and Jackson Hole Airport located near the neighbouring national park of Grand Teton.

Is it safe to drive around Yellowstone:

Yes, Yellowstone is completely safe to drive around, however, a motorist must be alert for any wildlife in the area. While travelling through Yellowstone it is common to see traffic congestion due to a Bison standing in the middle of the road. It’s important to take note of this for timing purposes too.

If you would prefer to avoid driving there are plenty of 2 days Yellowstone tours worth checking out.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone:

Yellowstone National Park is open to the public all year round, however, it becomes increasingly harder to experience all the attractions in the winter months due to road closers. With that being said, the winter is a great time to experience cross country skiing, snowshoeing and other winter activities.

I’d recommend visiting Yellowstone in the Spring and Summer months, as the weather is much nicer and it is easy to access all the attractions. However, please note that the park is much busier at this time.

Yellowstone 2 Day Itinerary: Day 1

We are going to kick start our Yellowstone Itinerary by entering the National Park through a gateway town called Cody located in the state of Wyoming. This driving route takes just over 3 hours to complete, however, it is full of incredibly scenic viewpoints along the way. It may also be a good idea to take out that road trip playlist to have a listen to some epic tunes as your drive.

Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

First Stop: Old Faithful

The first stop on our 2 days in Yellowstone itinerary is one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, Old Faithful.

Old Faithful was the first of nearly 500 of Yellowstone’s Geysers to be named. The geysers typically erupt in intervals, ranging from 44 to 125 minutes, with an average of 90 minutes. The eruptions can reach anywhere between 90 to 184 feet. It is a truly magnificent thing to watch. Let’s just say, Old Faithful really knows how to put on a show.

I would recommend spending one to two hours in the Old Faithful area, depending on the predicted eruption time. Once you witness Old Faithful erupt in front of your own eyes, I’d recommend exploring the area some more. It is possible to walk around Old Faithful and see many more beautiful geysers along the Upper Geyser Basin Trail. Just be mindful of timing as the trail stretches for 4.5 miles. The visitor centre is also a great place to visit for some factual information about Yellowstone and specifically, Old Faithful.

The Black Basin, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 2: The Black Basin Trail

A short distance from Old Faithful lies the Black Basin Trail, offering views of some smaller geyser with regular eruption patterns. Highlights from the trail consist of Rainbow Pool, Sunset Lake and Emerald Pool.

The trail lasts for half a mile and is an easy flat walk. It is the ideal place to go for a nice leisurely stroll taking in the viewpoints along the way. I’d recommend spending half an hour to 40 minutes exploring this trail.

It is possible to walk from Old Faithful to the Black Basin on a 1 and a half mile trail, taking approximately a 30-minute to walk. Alternatively, It’s a 4 minutes to drive away, with parking on site.

Following your visit to the Black Basin, it would be a good idea to stop for a bite to eat. I’d suggest bringing a packed lunch as food can be rather expensive in Yellowstone. Just remember Yellowstone is part of Bear Country so always be careful with food and keep it locked up and stored when not in use.

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 3: Grand Prismatic Spring

The next stop on the Yellowstone itinerary is one with a truly spectacular view. The journey begins at the Fairy Falls Trailhead. The trail passes over the fire hole river and continues until it reaches a viewing platform of the Grand Prismatic Spring.

The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the top spots at Yellowstone National Park. So much so, that the viewing platform and trail was built back in 2017, due to the number of visitors attempting to climb what was originally an unofficial trail. Just to catch a glimpse of the Grand Prismatic Spring from a height.

The Spring presents viewers with lovely orange, yellow and green tones. The crystal blue water can, at times, reach temperatures of 188 degrees. I’d suggest spending an hour to an hour and a half exploring the area, it is possible to hike to Fairy Falls from this trail.

Buffalo Eating Grass at Yellowstone National Park (Purchased Stock Photography)

Stop 4: Wild Life Spotting & Scenic Drive

The 4th stop of our Two Days in Yellowstone Itinerary has us driving along the Yellowstone Loop. This is a lovely scenic driving route and it the ideal places to spot some of Yellowstone’s captivating wildlife, such as Bears, Bison, Buffalo and Moose. Depending on time, it could be a good idea to stop at any scenic spots that catch your eye while driving. It’s time to relax and wind down for the night.

Night 1 in Yellowstone

After exploring the beautiful Yellowstone Loop it is time to head home for the night. On my trip to Yellowstone, I camped in Grant Village Campground, regardless of your accommodation style I’d recommend finding a spot to do a little bit of stargazing. I promise you will not regret it. It is also important to note that the food in Yellowstone can be rather expensive. It can be a good idea for those on a budget to bring their own food along with them. Just be mindful that Yellowstone is part of bear county and any unused food must be stored in appropriate containers.

2 days in Yellowstone National Park: Suggested Time Table for Day 1

Please note that this is a suggested timetable and may vary depending on time and flexibility. With this timetable, it is presumed that you will be arriving in Yellowstone on the first day our itinerary begins.

Stop/Attraction	Time Spent
Breakfast/Get Ready to Go	7:30 am
Drive to Yellowstone	8.30 am (3 hours from Cody)
Old Faithful	11.30 am (Spend 1/2 hours)
The Black Basin Trail	1.30 pm (Spend 1 hour)
Lunch	2.30pm (Spend 1 hour)
Grand Prismatic Springs	3.30 pm (Spend 2 hours)
Drive the Yellowstone Loop	5.30 pm (Spend 1 hour)
Dinner\Home for the Evening	6.30 pm

Sunrise, The West Thumb, Yellowstone National Park

2 Day Yellowstone Itinerary: Day 2

The second day of our 2 days in Yellowstone Itinerary has us waking up at the crack of dawn for a breathtakingly beautiful sunrise. We are then going to spend the day exploring some of the most scenic locations in the park.

Stop 1: The West Thumb

Rise and Shine! I’d recommend setting an alarm before sunrise and heading towards the West Thumb Geyser Basin. The Geyser faces Yellowstone Lake and is one of the best places to watch the sunrise at Yellowstone National Park.

It is magical watching the sun begin to rise as the steam from the thermal pools fills the air. Just be prepared and wrap up warm. Yellowstone tends to be FREEZING in the early hours of the morning.

Highlights in the area include Abyss Pool, the Fishing Cone and the view of Yellowstone Lake. It is a good idea to a little longer after sunrise to see some of these awesome geysers.

Mud Volcano, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 2: The Mud Volcano

A 40 minute drive from the West Thumb Geyser Basin lies Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano.

In the 19th century, the rumbles from the Mud Volcano could be heard from over half a mile away. When it erupted, it shook the ground and splattered mud all over the surrounding area.

Luckily today, the volcanos activity is a lot calmer and the eruption left some extremely interesting spots to explore along the trail.

The trail last for 3/4 of a miles, some points of interest include the Mud Caldron, the Sizzling Basin and the Dragons Mouth Spring. Just a little heads up the smell of sulphur is rather strong along this trail.

Stop 3: The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Following a walk around Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano head towards Artist Point. The scenic drive typically takes 20 minutes. Having the opportunity to see a 180 view of the Yellowstone Grand Canyon is an absolute must. The viewpoint is outstandingly beautiful. This an extremely popular spot in Yellowstone and can at times be quite crowded. The view, however, is worth the crowded battle.

Yellowstone’s Lower Falls is a truly magnificent waterfall. Once done exploring the startling viewpoint, have a lookout for a small wooden Ribbon Lake Sign. Walk on past the sign, from that point on a trail map will appear showing some further walking options.

If time allows, walk about 10 minutes up the Point Sublime Trail. The trails bring you through an uphill forest area. Not long into the trail, there is a stunning view of the Canyon. This particular trail is also a lot less popular, a great way to avoid the crowds and gear a little off the beaten path. Once reaching the viewpoint, it is possible to turn back around and return to the parking lot.

Calcite Springs, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 4: Calcite Springs Lookout

To get an alternative view of the Canyon of Yellowstone be sure to stop at the Calcite Springs Lookout Point. The view is located a 40-minute drive away from Artist Point and offers a beautiful view of Yellowstone River. The viewpoint is far less crowded and is a nice place to stop to stretch the legs while admiring the view.

After a morning of wonderful viewpoints, it is time to stop for a quick bite to eat. Calcite Springs Lookout is a great spot to doso.

Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 5: Mammoth Hot Springs

Following some yummy lunch, the next stop on the itinerary is Mammoth Hot Springs. The springs are a 40 minutes drive from Calcite Springs Lookout Point.

I highly recommend visiting Mammoth Hots Springs as they are unbelievably unique to Yellowstone. I have never seen anything like it. The area has two designated boardwalks, the lower and upper with over 50 hot springs to view.

The Lower Boardwalk consists of highlights such as the Liberty Cap, Palette Spring and the Devils Thumb. While the Upper Boardwalk is popular for Orange Spring Mound, Bath Lake, Prospect, Angel and White Elephant Back Terrace.

2 Day Itinerary for Yellowstone – Day 2 Suggested Timetable

Stop/Location	Time Spent
Sunrise at West Thumb	6.00 am (Time of Year Depending)(Spend 1/2 hours)
Mud Volcano	9.30 am (Spend 1 1/2 Hours)
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone	11.00 am (Spend 1 1.2 hours)
Calcite Springs	12.30 pm (Spend 1 1/2 Hours)
Lunch	2.00 pm (Spend 30 minutes)
Mammoth	3.30 pm (Spend 2 hours)
Dinner/Return Home	5.30 pm

Yellowstone National Park 2 Day Itinerary Map

I hope you enjoyed this 2 days in Yellowstone Itinerary. Above is a interactive map with all of the mentioned stops highlighted with a pin. I hope this comes in helpful when planning your trip to Yellowstone National Park.

Be Bear Aware, Keep Food in Storage

Tips before visiting Yellowstone National Park

Entrance Fee: To enter Yellowstone National Park costs $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcycle and $20 per individual.

Winter in Yellowstone: In the winter time, Yellowstone turns into a winter wonderland. Just be mindful that not all roads and facilities are open at this time. For more information check out the Yellowstone in Winter page.

Camping: For those wanting to camp in Yellowstone I’d recommend Grant Village Campground. The Summer rate for 2019 is $31. The camp grounds are near the West Thumb Geyser Basin and Yellowstone Lake.

Packing: Yellowstone can get extremely cold at night and then rather hot in the day time. I’d therefore recommend bringing some layered clothing. Making it easy to add or take off clothes when needed. Be sure to check out my road trip packing list.

Food Storage: Yogi Bear doesn’t only exist on the television screen. Yellowstone is the home to many grizzly and black bears. Therefore it is extremely important to store any food or personal items that smell in bear proof storage units.

DO NOT! Leave food or smelling items in your tent. Unless you are hoping to get up close and personal with Yogi in real life.

Bear Spray: Another way to avoid an encounter with Yogi, is bringing along some bear spray. It’s a good idea to always be prepared. Be Bear Aware!

Bug Spray: Those adored by mosquitos. I suggest bringing bug spray to avoid an itchy situation.

Sun Protection: It’s always important to protect your skin, particularly when spending regular time in the great outdoors.

Driving in Yellowstone National Park

The time frame between each stop on this itinerary may seem a little far fetched for those who have never visited Yellowstone before. However with that being said, it is almost 99% guaranteed that you will in-counter some wildlife trying to cross the road while driving in Yellowstone. Causing massive traffic jam. If this happens on your visit. Just take your time. It is all part of the experience.

See photoed above, a herd of Bison walking along Yellowstone’s roadside. We where easily held up for 30 minutes waiting for the herd to pass. It was however super cool to watch. There was easily 15 to 20 Bison.

Yellowstone is connected via two loops, all the stops on this itinerary are located on these loops or within proximity of one of the loops.

The Black Basin, Yellowstone National Park

1 Day in Yellowstone Itinerary

Are you wondering what to see in Yellowstone in just 1 day? Yellowstone is a wonderful place, a place where it is simply not possible to explore in just one day. However, with that being said, if you have the opportunity to stop by Yellowstone, even just for 24 hours. I’d 100% recommend it.

I have put together a bonus timetable for those a little stuck for time. Please be mindful, that this timetable will only allow quick stop offs in each location and further exploration may not be possible. It is also a very heavy itinerary, with a lot of driving, so be sure to get plenty of rest before attempting.

Before Sunrise: Wake Up\Breakfast

Sunrise (6.00am) – The West Thumb (Spend 45 minutes)

*30 minute drive to Old Faithful*

7.15am Old Faithful (spend 90 minutes)

8.45am The Black Basin Trail (Spend no more than 1 Hour)

9.45am Grand Prismatic Spring (Spend 1 hour)

*@ 11.00 1 Hour Drive to Mammoth*

12.00pm Mammoth Springs (Spend 1 hour)

1.00pm Small Packed Lunch

*@ 1.30pm 45 minute drive to Calcite Springs*

2.15pm Calcite Springs View (Spend 30 minutes)

*2.45pm 40 minute drive to Grand View*

3.30pm Grand View\The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone (Spend 40 minutes)

*4.10pm 20 minute drive to Mud Volcano*

4.30pm Mud Volcano (Spend 1 hour)

5.30pm Dinner Time

Disclaimer: I personally did not travel this route. It is just a suggested timetable. At times, the roads can get congested at Yellowstone due to wildlife and may cause a delay in schedule, resulting in missing some stops.

String Lake, Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park

Those on a road trip of the state of Wyoming. Yellowstone neighbouring National Park, Grand Teton is 100% worth the visit. Grand Teton is famous for it’s captivating scenery, beautiful wildlife and snow capped mountain tops.

While on my USA coast to coast road trip, I was lucky to visit Grand Teton after exploring Yellowstone. I was spent one day hiking both String and Jenny Lake. Please free to check out my Itinerary for hiking the Grand Tetons.

Thank you for reading my 2 Day Itinerary for Yellowstone

And… That’s a wrap. I hope this itinerary helped you decide things to do in Yellowstone for your 2 day trip. I hope you have the best time on your adventure and as always thanks for reading.

PIN ME FOR LATER

The post 2 days in Yellowstone National Park Itinerary appeared first on Live Adventure Travel.

California Bucket List: 21 Amazing Places to See on the East Coast

Laura — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 18:04:52 +0000

As an international, I have been lucky enough to visit California 3 times in total. On each trip, I find more and more new and exciting places to visit. Today, I have decided to compile a list of some of my favourite things to do in California, and I have asked some of my fellow travel bloggers help me make the Ultimate California Bucket List.

So, what are you waiting, let’s get reading, it is time for you to tick these awesome destinations off your bucket list!

1) Joshua Tree National Park

Contribution by Rhonda at Travel Yes Please

Joshua Tree National Park’s striking geological features, unique vegetation, and desert ecosystems make it a standout attraction that should not be missed when visiting California.

Outdoor adventurers and nature lovers will love exploring among the park’s iconic Joshua Trees and massive boulders. Hiking trails lead the way to scenic valleys, hidden palm oases, cactus gardens, and even ancient petroglyphs.

Climbers and boulderers will get their adrenaline rush from attempting to conquer one of the park’s 8,000+ climbing routes. There are challenges for all ability levels including crack, slab, and steep face climbing.

From September through May, visitors can spend the night at one of the park’s campsites and sleep under the stars. With some of the darkest nights in Southern California, it’s the perfect destination for stargazing and admiring the Milky Way. You can visit Joshua Tree National Park year-round, but it’s best to go in the spring and fall when temperatures are most comfortable. A park pass is required to visit and can be bought at the entrance stations and visitor centres.

2) Laguna Beach

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

Laguna Beach is a small coastal town located in the Orange County Region of California. This is honestly one of the prettiest beach areas in California, with small hidden coves, loosely populated beaches and stunning seaside views. Even the main beach is a lot less populated than the likes of Santa Monica or Malibu and features tide pools, boardwalks and parks.

Laguna is a nice place to gear off the beaten path and enjoy a simple day of relaxation and beautiful scenery. In the town, there are some trendy coffee shops that are nice for a quick bite to eat and a refreshing drink.

3) Disneyland California

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

There are 6 Disney parks scattered around the world, with Disneyland California being the first EVER park. Therefore, the addition of Disneyland is a must on any California Bucket List. The iconic park attracts over 18 million people each year and is home to some of the world’s most thrilling ride experiences, beloved live performances and of course the iconic Disney characters.

Disneyland is known for making all your dreams come true, a place for Adults to become big kids and for children to let their imagination run wild.

On the Disneyland property lies two very different parks, the Disneyland park is where all the magic began with a startling view of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle as soon as you enter. The second park, California’s Adventure is a modern layout featuring a ‘Hollywood’ themed design and more thrill-seeking rides. The price for admission into both parks changes regularly so it is best to check prices online before planning a trip. If hanging out with Mickey and the gang sounds like the ideal experience for you, why not add it to your Bucket List in California.

4) Knott’s Berry Farm

Contribution by Marcie at Marice in Mommyland

One of the most under-rated places to visit in California is Knott’s Berry Farm. Located in Buena Park (just a few minutes from Disneyland), Knott’s Berry Farm is the oldest theme park in the United States. Entrance into the park comes at a fee, with day tickets or an annual passes on offer.

There are so many attractions to choose from, roller coasters, Wild West shows and water-based experiences. There is really something for everyone, adults, teens and kids alike. One of the best kids based activity at Knott’s Berry Farm includes an entire section of the park dedicated to Snoopy-themed rides and attractions. You can even meet Peanuts characters! Knott’s Berry Farm also offers several popular special events. Did you know that boysenberries were actually invented at Knott’s Berry Farm? Each Spring, they celebrate with their popular Boysenberry Festival. During the summer months, head across the street to play at Knott’s Soak City, a super fun water park. In the fall, they offer a family-friendly Knott’s Spooky Farm during the day. But the event they are most famous for is Knott’s Scary Farm. This nighttime Halloween event is not for youngsters or those easily scared.

5) Griffith Observatory

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

The Griffith Observatory can be seen on the tip-top of the Hollywood Hills. Most of those planning on spending a few days exploring Los Angeles will pay a visit to the Griffith Observatory. Here, they will be presented with outstanding views of Downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood and the Pacific Ocean. There is also a fantastic view of the iconic Hollywood Sign. I’d highly recommend visiting during Sunset to see the sun go down over Los Angeles.

Entrance into the Observatory is FREE to the public, inside guests can watch live shows, explore exhibitions and have a glance through telescopes, possibly even get the chance to look through the 12-inch Zeiss Refractor.

6) Hollywood

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

Hollywood is the place to go for those looking to catch a glimpse of the United States famous entertainment business. A place where celebrities meet along the red carpet, the rich shop at Beverly Hills and tourists take snaps with their favourite actors star on the Hollywood walk of fame.

Even if you are only in Hollywood for a day, it is totally worth a visit to see some of the world famous music venues, the Chinese Theatre, the Hollywood Hills, the home of the Oscars, modern sleek bars, retro nightclubs and so much more.

The good news for those basing themselves near Hollywood, a large majority of places mentioned in this bucket list are of driving distance from the famous boulevard.

7) Venice Beach & Canals

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without venturing a little further afield to the surrounding beaches, with Venice Beach being one of them. Venice beach is possibly one of the most ‘hip and trendy’ beaches on all of the west coast. Featuring crafty market-style shops, live street performances and endless street art scattered around the place.

Venice Beach is also home to the famous seaside skateparks and gyms, otherwise known as muscle beach. On a hot summer’s day, it is common to see bodybuilders and fitness fanatics working out on the sand. It is fun to watch some of their amazing talents, as they swing from handle to handle in the jungle gym. And if you’re brave enough you could even give it a go!

A lesser-known area in this popular California district is the Venice Canals. Located just a short walk from the beach. The canals are a massive inspiration for the naming of the district. The residential area is home to trendy upmarket houses that look out on the canal style Marina. If you get the chance, I’d highly suggest visiting at sunset, it’s a truly breathtaking experience.

8) Santa Monica

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

Santa Monica is a famous beach town located near downtown Los Angeles. The popular spot is popular both among locals and tourists alike. It is a nice place to relax in the sand, go for a swim or enjoy a peaceful seaside walk. The Pacific Park is located on the pier and contributes greatly to Santa Monica’s iconic appearance. The park is home to a roller coaster, Ferris Wheel and many other attractions.

The Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica is a popular spot to go shopping, enjoy some street performances and get a bite to eat. Santa Monica is a must on any Bucket List for California.

9) Universal Studios Hollywood

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

Universal Studios Hollywood is home to some of the most thrilling roller coasters in California, it is a place where Adrenaline Junkies can visit to get their fix. Not only does universal have super fast rides, but it also features some fantastic performances and opportunities to meet some of TV’s most beloved characters.

Universal is the place to visit for all those Harry Potter fans out there. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is brought to light right in the middle of the theme park. Here, fans can explore Hogwarts Castle, cast magical spells with their purchased wizarding wands and ride on the extraordinarily themed Harry Potter rides.

If all that isn’t enough, Universal Studios Hollywood has something truly unique, something that is not offered in any other theme park in California. Those who purchase tickets for Universal Studios can jump aboard the park’s Studio Tour. The attraction drives visitors around the streets and movie sets of LA, visiting movie and TV sets featured on the likes of Desperate Housewives, Gilmore Girls, Back to the Future, Physco and many more. This is a truly unique experience and no ride is ever the same, so if you can afford to go on the attraction more than once, I’d highly recommend it. Besides, you never know who you may meet along the way.

10) The VIP Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

The Warner Brothers VIP Studio Tour is an experience not to be missed for those of you who have an interest behind the scenes of film and TV production. Attendees are brought onto the sets of one of Hollywood’s most famous studios located in Burbank California.

The tour lasts anywhere from 2 to 3 hours and allows guests to walk along with many famous sets such as the F.R.I.E.N.D.S set, the Ellen Degeneres Set, the Pretty Little Liars Set and many more. The tour also brings visitors inside sound stages, where they can see some behind the scenes action, movie props and even try on the sorting hat from Harry Potter.

If this sounds like the ideal tour for you, then buy your tickets now to avoid disappointment.

11) The Big Sur

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

The Big Sur is the perfect place to stop off at while cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway on a US Road Trip. The Big Sur is a stunning section off the coast of California which features rugged mountain tops that jot out of the ocean. Beneath the mountains lies the crystal clear waters of the Pacific. In fact, the Big Sur has been named the longest and most scenic road in the United States.

There are limited things to do along the highway, with the pure purpose of visiting the Big Sur is to see the stunning coastal views from the car. There are, however, viewpoints in which you can pull over your car to take a quick snap of the scenery. Some points along the highway consist of McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and finally Carmel by the sea (mentioned next).

Fairytale Style Cottage, Carmel by the Sea, California, United States © Purchased Stock Photography from Deposit Photos

12) Carmel by the Sea

Contribution by Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia

Carmel by the Sea deserves a place in your California bucket list. In fact, it makes for a great destination on any west coast road trip. The beautiful seaside town is home to stunning white sandy beaches, peaceful natural parklands and nice forest walks.

The charm does not end at the beach, the cute village is quaint with flower-filled courtyards, gardens and narrow streets. It is so photogenic, like something out of a fairytale. Two notable cottages that add to the charm of the town are Hanel & Gretel and Ocean’s End.

Carmel by the Sea is the perfect place to spend the weekend after driving along the Pacific Coast Highway and taking in the beautiful views of The Big Sur.

Golden Gate Bridge in San Fransisco, California, USA

13) San Francisco

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

San Francisco should be on the top of your US Bucket List never mind your California one! San Fran is possibly one of the most iconic cities in all of the United States, with its world-famous streets featuring in movies, TV shows and paintings.

Some of San Fran’s most notable landmarks that are a must on any San Fran itinerary include Lombard Street, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Painted Ladies. The cities hilly terrain adds extra charm to the endless list of things to do.

It is estimated that over 70,000 people visit San Fran every day, looking to get a taste of all of which the city has to offer. And by adding it to you California Bucket List, you could be one of them!

14) The Channel Islands

Contribution by James Ian at Travel Collecting

The Channel Island should be without a doubt on the top of your California bucket list, especially for those of you who have an interest in diving. The area consists of an archipelago of eight islands, stretching from Santa Barbara to San Diego.

The five most northern islands make up the Channel Islands national park. The only inhabited island is Santa Catalina. This is a popular destination for sailing and diving and there are ferries from three ports near Los Angeles. It is also possible to dive sites around Santa Catalina and the more northern Anacapa Island as day trips from near Los Angeles, or around San Miguel and Santa Rosa from Santa Barbara. The best time of year to dive here is July to January, from September to November having the best visibility of all.

The islands – made up of mostly bare rocky outcrops – dart dramatically out of the blue sea. With boats sometimes being accompanied by playful dolphins. There is plenty of different fish and other marine life around the islands for divers or snorkelers to enjoy. Highlights are bright orange Garibaldi damselfish, as well as fun-loving seals and sea lions. Many add diving in California’s Channel Islands onto their bucket lists due to the high volume of giant kelp in the surrounding waters. The cool waters around the islands are the perfect environment for giant kelp to grow and there are multiple sites throughout the entire archipelago. Kelp diving requires you to swim through thick forests of kelp that stretch from the bottom of the sea up to the surface. It’s an incredible experience.

15) A Day Trip to Catalina Island from LA

Contribution by Lauren from Ready Set PTO

If you can’t visit all of the Channel Islands at once don’t worry, it is easy to visit the most popular one, Catalina Island on a Day Trip from LA. The island is located 26 miles off the coast of Southern California, this island has a cute and colourful town, a fun beach, and some of the best snorkelling and diving in California.

The easiest way to get to Catalina Island is by ferry, from either Newport Beach or Long Beach area. The ferry ride lasts 1 hour and costs about $70 round trip.

Once you arrive, rent a golf cart in town so you can cruise around the island. Drive up and around the hills and soak in the views! Get lunch in town and head to Descanso Beach Club, the most popular beach on Catalina Island, where you can order drinks at the bar right on the sand. There is a great spot to go snorkelling right near here at the Casino building (not an actual casino) called Dive Park. You can rent a mask and snorkel for about $8 for 2 hours and check out all the colourful fish before heading back to the ferry dock for your return to the mainland!

16) Silicon Valley

Contribution by Paula from Truly Expat

If you are anything like me, Silicon Valley is a must-see! Not only is it a dream for technology lovers, but it is also a great place to get some perspective on the nature of social media and tech companies, something we all use!

Silicon Valley is only a 40-minute drive from San Francisco, so it makes for the perfect day trip. Make sure your first stop is to the Computer History Museum at 1401 North Shoreline Blvd Mountain View, CA 94043, where you will find computers of the present and the past, a great start to your Silicon Valley experience. Entrance into this museum is $17.50 with lots of exhibitions on display

A further five minutes down the street is the Google Headquarters, when you arrive, you can wander around the campus (you can’t go inside the buildings though), and marvel at this cool rather unique place to work. You can, however, head over to the google merchandise store to buy some great google Products.

After admiring the Google headquarters it is time to drive to Facebook (unfortunately, Facebook headquarters isn’t much to look at), you can’t enter the premises like you can with Google. Still, you can take a photo in front of the iconic Facebook sign.

Although there are many b8ta stores in other parts of the United States, if you haven’t seen these concept stores before, then 377 Santana Row, San Jose, 95128, is a great place to start. Each item at B8ta sits next to a digital screen that explains how it works and how much it costs.

17) Mt. Whitney

Contribution by Jenny from Campsite Vibes

Mt. Whitney is the highest point in the lower 48 states, standing proudly at 14,505 feet. This mountain is beautiful and is one of California’s 14er’s.

Mt. Whitney is definitely one of the highlights of California, it is possible to visit on a day hike or over the course of a couple of days. However, the hikes in Mt. Whitney are not easy, with the shortest to the summit and back being a 22 miles roundtrip. As a result, the miles, elevation gain and altitude, proper experience and training is required to summit Mt. Whitney. Permits are also required for both day hiking and multi-day trips.

If hiking Mt. Whitney isn’t in the cards for you, you can also see it from Alabama Hills in Lone Pine. If you get up before sunrise, you can watch as the whole mountain lights up pink in the morning glow. Alabama Hills is also a great place for some hiking, off-roading, and catching the Milkyway at night.

18) Yosemite National Park

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

Yosemite is on nearly everyone’s bucket list, the famous National Park is known for its captivating wildlife, astonishing beauty and iconic landmarks. The park is capable of taking your breath away in a matter of minutes.

Yosemite is the ideal vacation spot for those who love to hike, explore and be away with nature. No trip to Yosemite is complete without first catching a glimpse of El Capitan, The Half Dome and Tunnel Vision, all of which are what makes the park so iconic.

So, if you love to explore the outdoors and are looking for somewhere beautiful to do so, consider adding Yosemite to your California Bucket List now!

19) Sonoma Valley & Ziplining Through Redwood Tree’s

Contribution by Sierra at Free to Travel Mama

Sonoma Valley should be on everyone’s California bucket list and not just for its incredible wine tasting and gorgeous vineyard views. Sonoma also offers the experience of visiting California’s Coastal Redwoods as they fill numerous parks and forests throughout the valley. These Redwoods are the tallest living things on earth, often growing beyond 350 feet tall, and they live for an average of 500 to 700 years.

These beautiful, majestic trees can be experienced on the walking trails in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Colonel Armstrong is the oldest tree in the park at 1,400 years old. Trails range from easy and accessible to more challenging, but all offer stunning views and a serene picnic area at any time of the year. The park is open from 8 am to sunset daily and the entrance fee is $10 per car.

By far, the most unique way to enjoy the Redwoods is by zip-lining among their branches with Sonoma Canopy Tours. The exhilarating rides 250 feet above the forest floor gives a bird’s eye view of the forest and towering trees. Three different zip lines tours through the Redwoods are available consisting of several zip lines each as well as sky bridges and rappelling. Tours start at $119. It is the perfect way to see the Redwoods, unlike any way you have before!

20) Lake Tahoe

Contribution by Laura the founder of Live Adventure Travel

Lake Tahoe has it all, stunning crystal clear water, adrenaline-driven lakeside sports and a winter season to die for. No matter what time of year you are planning to visit California, Lake Tahoe is always a good place to add to your to-do list.

In the summer months, most days are spent down by the lake, paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking, boating, parasailing…the list of things to do are endless. The hot weather makes Tahoe the perfect destination to go camping and explore the surrounding mountains by foot.

In the Winter months, the Tahoe district turns into a winter wonderland and people travel from all over to take part in festive activities, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

Regardless of when you plan to visit California, Tahoe needs to be on your Bucket List. As it is a vacation spot not to be missed.

21) Redwood National and State Parks

Contribution by Gina from Evergreen and Salt

Redwood National and State Parks make up a region of Northern California that is home to the tallest trees on earth. The Redwood Trees are spectacular as they jut up high into the air, blocking out the sky in parts and providing gorgeous rays of sunlight that break through the treetop canopy. Much of the redwood forest of California was decimated in the late 19th century by the logging industry, but luckily enough is left that you can appreciate the wonder of these trees that can be hundreds of years old and up to 350 feet tall.

Humboldt State Park is a must-see in the Redwood area thanks to its Avenue of the Giants drive and proximity to drive-thru trees that are – you guessed it – wide enough to drive through. Whether you’re planning a trip to California that includes driving all along the California coastline or you’re just looking for a weekend getaway from San Francisco, the Redwood National and State Parks are a bucket list item of California you won’t want to miss seeing.

22) Santa Cruz, California

Contribution by Teresa from Brogan Abroad

Located at the north end of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a traditional Californian beach town with a very chilled vibe. It’s only over an hour away from San Francisco, so if you are staying in the Golden City, a day trip to Santa Cruz is the perfect way to explore this charming town.

It is the birthplace of mainland surfing in the US, so if you are a fan of the sport, Santa Cruz should be in your bucket list of places to visit in California. Whether you enjoy watching surfers catch some waves in style, or you are experienced enough to join them, head to Pleasure Point, an iconic surfing spot and filming location of 2012 film Chasing Mavericks. Another famous spot is Steamer Lane, just off Lighthouse Point.

It was at Steamer Lane that local legend Jack O’Neill developed the modern surfing wetsuit.While you are in Lighthouse Point, why not visit the Surfing Museum, housed within the cute little Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse. It covers 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz.But there’s more to this lovely town than surfing.

Make sure you don’t miss a visit to the Beach Boardwalk, a classic seaside amusement park, and a walk down Santa Cruz Wharf to see the resident sea lions.

Map Locations of our Bucket List California

So, this brings us to the end of our list of some of the best places to visit in California. Below is a map with all the locations mentioned above. I tried to list place in the order of there position.

Thanks for Reading!

I want to take a moment to take those who helped me put together this Epic California Bucket List. I hope this will come in handy when planning your vacation. If you are planning a trip around the US be sure to check out some of my related posts down below.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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