Month: July 2021

If you are looking to commemorate our heroic armed service members, there are several best places to go for Veterans Day parades, events, and attractions. Veterans Day is a national holiday to honor, appreciate, and show gratitude to United States military vets. If you are planning on taking a solo travel adventure or family vacation this November, there are plenty of amazing options to consider. From memorial sites, museums, as well as historic parks, there are plenty of incredible destinations where you can enjoy and learn something new. Read on to learn about the best places to go for Veterans Day parades, events, and attractions.

New York City, New York

The Big Apple, New York City, is one of the best places to go for Veterans Day this year. NYC is widely known for its annual Veterans Day parade. Every year, the parade makes its way down Fifth Avenue, originally beginning at 26th Street. The nearly 1.5 mile procession then makes its way all the way to 46th Street. During the parade, viewers will get the opportunity to see more than 20,000 marchers, which arrive from nearly 300 different groups. This include military units, youth groups, marching bands, and veterans. Certainly, NYC is one of the best places to go for Veterans Day this year.

Birmingham, Alabama

In addition, Birmingham, AL offer plenty of Veterans Day parades, events, and attractions to explore this November. Birmingham is widely known as the birthplace of Veterans Day way back in 1947. Annually, this Alabaman city holds a National Veterans Day Parade. The parade typically occurs every year on November 11th, typically between 12:00 and 1:30 PM.

The usual route wraps right around Railroad Park, where you will get sweeping views of the skyline. In addition to the parade, there are incredible sights to see at Alabama Veterans Memorial Park and Hall of Honor. Surely, explore “The Heart Of Dixie” for parades, celebrations, and events this Veterans Day.

Boston, Massachusetts

Of course, these is plenty to do, see, and experience in Boston, Massachusetts every Veterans Day. Every year in Boston, travelers can experience not one, but two incredible parades. The very first Veterans Day Parade in Boston takes place every November 11th at 12:00 PM. The parade starts right on the corner of Tremont and Boylston Street. Following immediately behind is the Veterans For Peace Parade, which also takes place every year. This parade is commemorated to celebrate the original purpose of Armistice Day, which was peace.

Before you leave Beantown, check out our guide on the best things to do in Boston this year. Indeed, Boston, MA is a great place to visit this upcoming Veterans Day.

Washington D.C

The Nation’s Capital in Washington D.C. is undeniably one of the best places to visit on Veterans Day. On Veterans Day, the city is most widely-known for its patriotic wreath-laying ceremonies. These can be found at the Arlington National Cemetery, World War II Memorial, or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. In addition, these commemorative ceremonies are also held at the U.S. Navy Memorial, as well as the Women In Military Service for America Memorial.

Of course, there are plenty of additional attractions at Mount Vernon. Here, travelers will get to experience special flag raisings, harmony heritage singers, and strings orchestras. Absolutely, travel and commemorate our U.S. military in Washington D.C this Veterans Day.

Jacksonville, Florida

Now, explore Jacksonville, FL for exciting Veterans Day parades, events, and attractions. Every November, Jacksonville celebrates the United States military in a big way. Start off by experiencing Florida’s largest Veterans Day Parade, which starts near the Federal Reserve Bank and ends by Lee Street. Here, you will witness spectacular bands, beautifully-decorated floats, and massive balloons. Simultaneously, you will get to see plenty of active duty and retired military members.

Leading up to the parade, you will love patriotic family festivals, military appreciation celebrations, and ship tours. In future years, the day even become more spectacular with a new interactive Naval Museum, which is expected to come to Downtown Jacksonville. Definitely, Jacksonville, Florida is one of the best places to go for Veterans Day parades, events, and attractions.

There are several educational, incredible, and historical destinations to visit this Veterans Day with parades, events, and attractions. First, stop in NYC, where you can experience a massive annual parade. In addition, Birmingham, AL offers incredible parades, parks, and memorials to honor our Armed Service members. Of course, visit Boston, MA to witness two incredible patriotic parades. Or, head South to the Nation’s Capital for wreath-laying ceremonies and spectacular performances. Even further down the East Coast, explore Florida’s largest Veterans Day parade in Jacksonville. To help you learn something new on all of your travels, check out our ultimate Black History and Civil Rights itineraries. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the best places to go for veterans day with parades, events, and attractions.

There are plenty of fun, kid-friendly travel ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest United States. The American Southwest is filled with incredible destinations which are perfect for family exploration. Whether you are looking to visit historical attractions, soak up scenic views, or admire the desert landscape, there is something for everyone here. As a travel-savvy mom or dad, its time to get the kids ready to explore. This way, you can start building life-long memories, break your usual routine, and open your children’s minds to new experiences. To help you get started, check out these kid-friendly ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest.

Visit The Mighty Five In Utah

First and foremost, Utah’s Mighty Five is a great kid-friendly idea for the best Southwest family vacations. The Mighty 5 refers to five incredible national parks located throughout the Southern half of Utah. Here, families can experience Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Each of these world-famous opportunities delivers unrivaled beauty, serenity, and scenery. Even better, there is plenty of great boating, hiking, and biking that the entire family can enjoy. If you are looking to add more National Parks to your itinerary, check out our official Montana outdoor travel and adventure guide. Certainly, Utah’s Mighty 5 is a great destination for your kid-friendly Southwest family vacation.

Go Glamping

Families looking to soak up the Great Outdoors in the American Southwest are rapidly booking glamping travel expeditions. Rent a cabin or family yurt and set off on your journey. Typically, these include a wood stove, fireplace, and propane kitchen appliances. If you are seeking a more luxurious experience, check out RV rentals. Of course, these vehicles pack all the comforts of home, include TVs, bathrooms, and electricity. Once you get your RV, you can begin embarking on the Southwest’s best road trip. Be sure to make the drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend. Absolutely, going glamping is a great kid-friendly idea for the best Southwest family vacations.

Explore The Grand Canyon

Next, the Grand Canyon is one of the best kid-friendly Southwest vacations to experience with the family. There is plenty for kids to do when visiting the Grand Canyon in Arizona. For a start, you can bike along the rim trail, ride the train, and walk to Shoshone Point. Afterwards, take a hike up the Bright Angel Trail. Then, you can have your children get sworn in as Grand Canyon Junior Rangers. Surely, this is an amazing experience you will never forget. After all, the Grand Canyon is one of the best travel experiences in the US. Surely, explore the Grand Canyon for a fun, kid-friendly family vacation in the Southwest United States.

Visit Some Museums

Before you head home, soak up some knowledge at the Southwest’s best family-friendly museums. In AZ, some of the best kid-friendly museums include the Pioneer Living History Village, Arizona Railway Museum, Arizona Science Center, and the Musical Instrument Museum. For families that love eccentric oddities, stop by the International UFO Museum & Research Center, Tinkertown Museum, and the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures. Definitely, visit some fun, educational museums on your kid-friendly family Southwest vacation.

Travel To New Mexico

In addition, consider booking your family a kid-friendly vacation to New Mexico. New Mexico is widely-renowned for its diverse cultures, fun adventures, and educational hands-on museums. Even better, families will love New Mexico’s world-famous festivals and events. One of the most popular is the Hot Air Balloon Festival, which is held every year in Albuquerque. To find out more, check out our guide to hot air ballooning in Albuquerque NM. For families of outdoor enthusiasts, be sure to stop by White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, and Chaco Culture National Parks. You may even want to add a visit a trip to Bandelier or Petroglyph National Monument to your family-friendly itinerary. Indeed, New Mexico is ripe with great opportunity for family travel enthusiasts.

There are plenty of amazing kid-friendly ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest USA. First off, check out the Mighty 5, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Next, head over to Arizona, where you can admire the beauty of the Grand Canyon. In addition, travel to New Mexico. To get the most from your vacation, try to time it along wit the Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival. Before you head home, learn something at some of the best Southwest museums. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about kid-friendly ideas for the best family vacations in the Southwest.

When you think of the beaches of California, The Beach Boys music, surfers, volleyball and rollerblading come to mind. California Beaches all have their unique personality and features. The coastline is very long and can be enjoyed at any time of the year with its natural beauty. Driving along the coast of California you will find the views change dramatically from north to south. Some of the beaches listed below are well-known but others are a little away from the crowds and totally idyllic. Either way you will enjoy them all.

Natural Bridges State Park

Located right in Between Half Moon Bay and Monterey, beach-loving tourists will find Natural Bridges State Park. Right in Santa Cruz, his park and beach is a great spot to see birds, migrating whales, seals and otters. Along the beach, tide pools give you a glimpse of life beneath the sea. During low tide you may see shore crabs, sea stars, and other colorful life. Stop at the Visitors Center to pick up a guide of what you may see in the tide pools.

Monarch Grove

The park’s Monarch Grove is home for thousands of Monarchs, making it a great stop for your endangered wildlife species vacation. The mild seaside climate and eucalyptus grove provide an ideal place for them to stay until spring. Late October and all of November is often the best time to go observe the Monarchs.

Watch the surfing action, especially when the waves are high. It is also a good spot to watch the sunset. Call (831) 423-4609 for hours and special events being held on the dates you plan on going.

Half Moon Bay

The drive from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay is stunning, and it compares to the Big Sur area as one of the most beautiful stretches of oceanfront highway in California. Take Highway 1 North for 47 miles to get there.

There are plenty of incredible beaches to visit in Half Moon Bay. For a start, check out Venice, Francis, Roosevelt, and Dune Beach. With so many options, this is a favorite destination for beach-lovers. Simultaneously, its miles of stunning oceanfront walkways make it an excellent stop for hikers and runners.

Poplar Beach

Poplar Beach is a great spot for animal lovers. After all, the park is dog-friendly and known for horseback riding. If you are interested in partaking, check out Sea Horse Ranch, which helps riders navigate the Coastal Equestrian Trail. From here, you can experience spectacular ocean views, scenic bluffs, and more. The Early Bird Special is a 2-Hour Trail & Beach Ride offered at 8:00am for $ 60. It is $ 100 at any other point in the day. Seahorseranch.org

Pillar Point Harbor

In the nearby community of Princeton-by-the-Sea, the picturesque Pillar Point Harbor has fishing boats and an old wooden pier. This harbor is also the departure point for whale watching, as well as fishing charter boats.

Huli Cat will take you whale watching for 3 hours $ 65. Humpback Whales can be seen April-Nov and Gray Whales Jan-Mar. hulicat.com

Several waterfront restaurants offer fabulous views and fresh seafood. You can’t go wrong with Barbara’s Fishtrap with beachside tables overlooking the harbor at 281 Capistrano Road, and Sam’s Chowder House at 4210 N. Cabrillo Highway.

Then, stop by the famous Pillar Point Harbor. This amazing beach spot overlooks the towering waves of Mavericks Beach, which often reach height of thirty feet. Notable surfers from all over the world travel to this sport to catch these incredible waves.

Keep in mind that the parking lot will quickly fill up whenever big waves are predicted. Simultaneously, eager tourists will cover the bluffs to watch some great surfing action. Be sure to bring some binoculars along with you. After all, some of the best waves are often up to two miles out. To access, follow a simple trail that stretches for a half-mile to the beach. You can always take the Pillar Point Bluff Trail too. This follows the coastal ridge, where better wave views are possible. Certainly, this is one of the best off the beaten path beach towns to visit in California.

Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is southwest of Los Angeles and is in-between Manhattan and Redondo beaches. It has almost 2 miles of ocean beach. There is excellent surf, good swimming areas, and volleyball nets along the sand. Volleyball tournaments and surf festivals take place throughout the year.

Enjoy the Strand there by stopping by Hermosa Cyclery. You can rent bikes, skates and beach gear just steps from one of the most spectacular bicycle paths in the world. Enjoy a ride along the beach and no reservation is needed. hermosacyclery.com

Right in town there are 10 murals in the area that you can see that represent the history and culture of the city of Hermosa Beach. hermosamurals.org The Hermosa Beach Historical Society may start offering mural tours in 2022.

Stop at Jeffers in town to rent bicycles or beach chairs for the day. $ 20 bicycle and $ 6 for beach chairs.

Here is a good tip for your day here. Once you have a parking spot, don’t give it up. The locals walk or bike everywhere. Move your car only when you’re ready to head home.

Stick around in the evening and go to the Comedy & Magic Club. They have been part of the Hermosa Beach community since 1978 and they are known for hosting Jay Leno weekly. Jay is a friend of the club, not an owner, and loves to perform in front of a small, intimate audience.

Just a quick walk from the beach is Grandview Inn. Here, you will find everything you need just a short walk away. For example, tourists generally love the local restaurants, nightclubs, and salons. Even better, this location is just 7 miles from LAX. Starts at $ 179/night for 2 adults.

Crystal Cove State Park

Right off the Pacific Coast Highway, be sure to stop at Crystal Cove State Park. Located right between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar, this spot is essential to stop by on your PCH itinerary.

Start at Moro Beach. Walk through the short tunnel to get to this beach. Very popular with body boarders, paddle boarders, fisherman, and kayakers.

Reef Point has beach access using the very short trail that travels north right down to the beach. A stairway takes you into Scotchman’s Cove and, to the south, a ramp down to Muddy Creek. That is a great body surfing spot.

Pelican Point has a 1 mile multi-use trail paralleling the coast line that offers a view of the coastal bluff and wildlife.

The beachcomber Cafe’ is a unique beach cottage where you can enjoy California cuisine with a spectacular oceanside view. It is right on the beach and we recommend breakfast or lunch. Dinner is pricey. thebeachcombercafe.com

Prismo Beach

Much further north on the Central Coast, stop by Prismo Beach. Here, you will experience a totally different feel and ambiance compared to SoCal beaches.

This is a great spot if you are looking to see some bright Monarch Butterflies. These amazing creatures flock here annually between October and February. For butterfly viewing, check out the grove, right off of Highway 1 in South Prismo Beach. Keep in mind that the Monarchs that visit Prismo are unlike any other species. In fact, they live for nearly half-a-year, whereas traditional Monarch butterflies only live for four to six weeks.

The Natural History Museum In Morro Bay is an excellent resource for information about Monarchs. The panoramic waterfront view from the museum is amazing! There are daily talks at 11am and 2pm. For more information call 805-773-5301.

Before leaving Prismo, be sure to check out some massive clams. After all, the Prismo Clam is one of the biggest on the California Coast. This makes this under-the-radar beach town the perfect location for clamming, which is permitted here all year. To get started, grab a clam fork, bucket, caliper, and head over to Grand Avenue.

Before any clams can be taken, they need to measure at least 4.5 inches in diameter. Also, you will need a saltwater fishing license. If you just want a day pass, you can purchase one for less than $10. Even with this, you will still be limited to ten clams a day for each person. To avoid getting sick, do not eat any clams from shells that are closed.

The Pismo Beach Pier juts out into the Pacific from the center of Pismo Beach giving visitors a nice view of the beach. It is best known for fishing and surfing. You can fly a kite or watch seagulls.

Then, walk out to the pier and admire the spectacular hills and ocean. Afterwards, walk under the pier where you can experience the waves up close and personal. On the northern side of the beach, experience the spectacular Wilmar Stairs. There are spectacular ocean views from here. Use the wooden stairway to access the beach. The Pier is just a short walk away along the beach.

If you plan on staying overnight, The Inn at the Cove is oceanfront with a cliff top setting. There is a heated pool and access to Elmer Ross Beach for swimming. Rates in the off-season are $160 which includes breakfast, Wi-Fi and parking. Kontiki Inn is another option. Rooms are all oceanfront. Nightly rates Sun thru Thurs for up to two people are $130, off season.

As you see, there are beaches in California for all activities. Try to experience them in all parts of the state. The best part is that all the views are free! Once you have made your way through the top hidden towns in California, you are ready to begin seeing the best secret Caribbean islands without a cruise ship.

There are plenty of incredible mail boat travel adventures for cruise vacation enthusiasts. Small, mail boat cruises offer truly amazing experiences to far-out frontiers, under-the-radar destinations, and luxurious locations. Here, you can explore remote beaches, quaint small towns, and frozen shorelines. As a cruise value traveler, there has never been a better time to set-sail on your ocean adventure. This way, you can see new places, try something new, and achieve exceptional ticket barrier. Read on to learn about the top mail boat travel adventures in the world for cruise vacationers.

Hurtigruten Mail Boat Cruise, Norway

First off, the Hurtigruten mail boat cruise is an excellent attraction to see Norway’s spectacular coastline, as well as breathtaking fjord scenery. These cruises run between the charming cities of Kirkenes in the North, and Bergen, Norway in the South. Crossing along the Artic Circle, these tours are offered year round. Of course, this is the perfect choice if you are looking to experience the Northern Lights or midnight sun. If you are planning this for your next getaway, check out our recent guide on money-saving travel hacks for cruise vacations. Certainly, the Hurtigruten mail boat cruise is a great Nordic travel experience to take this year.

Pelorus Mail Boat Cruise, Havelock, New Zealand

Next, New Zealand’s Pelorus mail boat cruise is an excellent option to explore the jagged beaks and deep, sunken valleys of the Marlborough Sounds. This tour delivers mail to some prominent residents on the most remote corners of the sound. During your journey, you may see some fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. At the same time, you captain will provide you with educational information about the local residents. Some tours will even a complete tour of New Zealand muscle farms, which is truly an incredible experience. Surely, take an adventurous Pelorus mail boat cruise in remote New Zealand.

Lake Geneva Mail Boat Tour, Wisconsin

You can always take the Lake Geneva mail boar tour in Wisconsin, which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Visitors can experience this journey for about $35 for adults. Over the course of your journey, you will make stops at over fifty piers. At each point, your captain will provide insightful information about the historic mansion homes, estates, and history. You may even learn about some famous Chicagoans from notable US history. To date, this is still the only continuous marine mail delivery service that uses jumpers in the entire world. Therefore, your ride is also part of history. Undeniably, this is one of the best travel experiences in the US. Indeed, Lake Geneva’s mail boat tour is a great way to experience U.S history, culture, and explore remote towns.

Mount Washington Lake Winnipesaukee Boat Tour, New Hampshire

Then, set sail on the U.S mail boat travel cruise in Mount Washington, New Hampshire. This incredible journey makes four island stops, where you will learn about local lake history, culture, and scenery. On a nice day, you will receive impeccable views of the nearby islands and surrounding terrain. While aboard, fill out a custom postcard, which can then be mailed right off the ship. Then, finish your journey with a memorable, unique collectible stamp. Absolutely, the Lake Winnipesaukee mail boat cruise is one of the best travel experiences in the world.

Monhegan Mailboat Experience, Port Clyde, Maine

At the same time, climb aboard the Monhegan mailboat experience, which still serves a central role to Maine’s remote island communities. After leaving Port Clyde, this spectacular cruise immediately embarks to the Marshall Point Lighthouse. On your journey, you will see plenty of amazing animals, such as puffins. You may even see some small whales and porpoises. On the way back, you may even see some wildlife sitting on the famous “Seal Rock.” Therefore, it is a great destination for your endangered wildlife travel itinerary. Throughout the trip, you will also pass by lobstermen, pleasure watercraft, and sailboats gliding along. Definitely, the Monhegan mailboat experience is an amazing cruise journey to take this summer.

There are plenty of amazing mail boat travel adventures in the world for cruise vacationers. First off, visit Norway to see the spectacular shoreline and amazing scenic fjords. Next, set sail on the Pelorus cruise to explore remote New Zealand. In addition, Lake Geneva offers plenty of relatively affordable and informational cruise options. Of course, the Mount Washington tour and Monhegan mail boat experience are great options for travelers looking to stay in the Northeast. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the top mail boat travel adventures in the world for cruise vacationers.