If your family wants to take a vacation for spring break 2012, don’t worry – there are plenty of spring break deals in places that won’t break the bank and won’t be swarmed by college students, either. Whether you are looking for some fun in the sun, an outdoor adventure, or a trip that’s both fun and educational, here are six family friendly travel ideas, complete with spring break hotels to consider.
With all there is to do in Hershey, a week might not be long enough. Hershey’s largest attraction is Hersheypark, a chocolate themed amusement park with roller coasters, children’s rides, and a boardwalk. Nearby, families will find fun at Hershey’s Chocolate World, taking a virtual chocolate factory tour and making their own candy bars.
The Hershey Lodge in Hershey is one of the best spring break hotels for families, offering guests discounts and complimentary shuttle service to Hersheypark, an indoor pool, Hershey character appearances, and a Wii room.
Home of the famous Riverwalk, San Antonio offers mild weather in the spring and diverse entertainment options. See dolphins, penguins, even alligators at SeaWorld Adventure Park, or take a swim in Six Flags Fiesta Texas’ wave pool, one of the largest in the country. For more water rides, visit Splashtown Water Park for spring break deals, with fifty water rides and attractions.
First time visitors to San Antonio may want to stay on the Riverwalk, a walk along the San Antonio River flanked by spectacular restaurants and great shopping. The Riverwalk Marriott Courtyard is family friendly, with an in-hotel restaurant and an outdoor pool. El Tropicano hotel is also located on the Riverwalk, with a retro vibe, exclusive river taxi access for guests, and an outdoor pool.
Or you can stay at the Four Points by Sheraton San Antonio Downtown and enjoy further discounts available exclusively to MHNSaves members at select MHN member properties.
Families vacationing over spring break 2012 will find Williamsburg offers educational opportunities for adults and the younger set. Colonial Williamsburg is the “world’s largest living museum”, with actors staffing exhibits, historic buildings, and working trade shops. After learning about colonial times, families can visit Busch Gardens Amusement Park, with rides for all ages.
If you plan on staying in Williamsburg, the Great Wolf Lodge offers an immersive experience with cabin-themed rooms, an indoor water park, MagiQuest facility, and an “ice cream spa” for kids. Also in Williamsburg, King’s Creek Plantation offers guests amenities that cater to the entire family, with an indoor Aquatic Center and a spa for parents.
Branson prides itself on being a family destination. There are many caves in and around Branson, and most are well-lit with stairs and handrails making them family accessible. There are also cruises and fishing on the many local lakes. Indoors, Branson offers family activities from laser tag to entertainment shows, as well as several unique museums, including the Dinosaur Museum and the Titanic Museum.
If you’re staying in Branson, review The Stone Castle Hotel. Located on Table Rock Lake, it offers a game room, free hot buffet breakfast, and two indoor pools. You might also want to check out Still Waters Lakefront Resort for spring break deals, with a game room, playground, and several outdoor swimming pools completed by an island oasis.
Amelia Island is one of few beach front towns in Florida that is a family friendly destination even during spring break, and the small community offers vacationers true relaxation. Visitors can take a Segway tour to visit birds, turtles, and dolphins in their natural environment, or take a horseback ride on the beach. Afterwards, families can just sit back and relax.
There are several spring break hotels on Amelia Island. The Ritz Carlton Amelia Island is an ocean front property that offers everything you would expect from a Ritz Carlton property. On the other side of Amelia Island, Hampton Inn and Suites is located downtown, close to fine dining and shopping; guests enjoy free continental breakfasts and swimming pool access.
Active families will enjoy all that Steamboat Springs offers, but be aware that most activities in Steamboat Springs are outdoors. Besides skiing, visitors enjoy tubing and hot air balloon tours. Returning to their hotel, families can enjoy hot chocolate around the fire – no matter which hotel you choose, most in Steamboat Springs have fireplaces in the lobby.
The Steamboat Grand is a family oriented hotel with entertainment on premises, including a heated outdoor pool, arcade games and DVD players in all rooms. Close to the hot springs that give Steamboat Springs its name is the Highmark Steamboat Springs, which offers indoor and outdoor heated pools as well as a secure storage area for skis and snowboards.
With so many family friendly options, it’s time to start planning your family’s spring break 2012 vacation!
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach has a little something for everyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in beautiful Jacksonville. The beach is usually not too crowded, so one can spend a day relaxing on the beach. Located along the beach are beautiful shopping centers, restaurants and fun shops. An experience at Atlantic Beach is exactly what a day at the beach should be.
Little Talbot Island State Park
At Little Talbot Island State Park, there are so many activities that will keep everyone occupied and happy. From picnicking, to beautiful scenery, bicycling, kayaking, walking paths and more. This park will give you the best that the outdoors has to give and then some. Don’t feel like leaving? You don’t have to as they also offer a nice camp site.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Who doesn’t love taking a trip to the zoo? At Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, you are about to enter so much more than an ordinary zoo. Sure you still have your normal exhibits to observe the monkeys, elephants and giraffes, but what sets this zoo apart from others is the walking safari! Come and witness some of the world’s most exotic and rare animals!
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
At The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, you can enjoy over 1,500 works of art and over 1.5 acres of historic gardens. A site that must be seen to believe, the beautiful artwork and gardens have been bringing in tourists from all around the world for years. Check out their website to see any programs or events that they may be offering such as jazz in the gardens!
Anheuser-Busch Brewery
This one is for the adults only. Ever wanted to go behind the scenes and see how your favorite beer is made and manufactured? Well, now you can do just that at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Stop on in for a tour that is also best of all FREE! Here you can observe the entire process that your favorite bottle of beer must go through before ending up on your hand. At the end of the tour, you will also get complimentary beers for your enjoyment!
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
Ready for a night of relaxing entertainment in Jacksonville? Then take on a show with the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. With various performances held year round, be sure to check out the calendar to find a show that is right for you. With shows and performances such as “The Pirates of the Caribbean” and “La Boheme”, we are certain that you will find a show that you will enjoy in no time!
Jacksonville Landing/Riverwalk
One of the finest sites and scenery you will find in all of Jacksonville. Jacksonville Landing and Riverwalk offer the perfect place to being a sweetheart, friends and family or just yourself for a leisurely stroll or jog. Outside of the river you will find a handful or restaurants, shopping and a fun area for nightlife. Come and enjoy the day, and then dance the night away!
E2ride Bike Tour
Rated #1 among tourist and locals, e2ride bike tours offer a fun, friendly and healthy way to experience and discover Jacksonville! Bike through scenic back roads, along rivers and oceans and find out why people say that Jacksonville is one of the most beautiful cities in America!
Settled in the 1600’s, Newport News has plenty of history. So much in fact that even the residents aren’t exactly sure how the town got its name. A good assumption is that Captain Christopher Newport had good news about supplies to the early settlers here. Outside of a unique history, Newport News breathes modern living and fun for all inside a frame of well preserved landmarks and natural beauty. All four seasons can be experienced in Newport News with generally moderate highs and lows. Yes they get snow but, not enough to panic. It gets hot in the summer but generally stays in the 80’s. Newport News is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, history, nightlife, and family fun. Enjoy, and if you have the time, check out these fun and unique places in Newport News Virginia.
Virginia Living Museum
Virginia is pretty big and has a lot of diversity of ecosystems and life within them. The Virginia Living Museum is a great place to enjoy them up close and safely. Indoor and outdoor venues are available and are always great for enjoying or hiding from the weather. Inside, you will find interactive workshops, a planetarium, observatory, and multiple recreations of Virginia’s many vibrant habitats. Outdoors, you’ll find an aviary, boardwalk, butterfly garden, and more. Inside and out, this museum provides plenty to see while learning about the living bounty of Virginia.
Hilton Village
Noted as the countries first Federal war-housing project, Hilton Village is a step into the past and a great place to get lost for a few hours. Protected as a historic site, you will see this part of town much like it was during the first world war while enjoying bistros and shopping. There are annual parades to bring the kids to. There’s a pier (one of the longest on the east coast) off of the James River to bring your significant other to at sunset. There are so many reasons to visit Hilton Village. Be sure to make a little time to pop over to this quirky little piece of Newport News.
Newport News Park
Ever want to try archery or disc golf? If yes, here is your chance! If you don’t, that’s ok, skip it and have a good time wandering through one of the country’s largest city run parks. Remains of confederate structures sporadically appear along trails and waterways. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boating are all available activities in the park. Located on the northern portion of Newport News, the park is just a great “get away” destination for all ages.
Mariner’s Museum
This place should make for a good stop if you are cramped up in the hotel and want to stretch your legs, well come do it at the Mariner’s Museum. The Nolan trail there boasts fourteen bridges each with exquisite views of James River and Lake Maury. Inside, you will find plenty of friendly and helpful staff along with really interesting artifacts, collections, and exhibits that focuses on the history of boating. Truthfully, you don’t have to be a boat or ship enthusiast to “dip” into the Mariner’s Museum. With the museums expansive collection and picturesque location you’ll be sure to find plenty to do and see. So, enjoy your day in Newport News and for an afternoon enjoy it here.
Ferguson Center for the Arts
Built in 2005, this new edition to Newport News is located on the Christopher Newport University campus. Attracting a wide variety of audiences is part of the performing art center’s mission. Ferguson Center accomplishes this with a myriad of performers and forms of entertainment from Jazz to big name comedy acts to the Temptations to Stomp. Ferguson Center for the Arts is easily accessible by transit and just a hop away from the Mariner Museum and Lake Maury. Just call or check out the website for times and shows.
Endview Plantation
I promise that I don’t travel the world looking for Civil War things. These are the kind of things you find below the Mason Dixon line. I like to think of it as a chance to peak back and discover where our country came from. If you live down the street or in a different time zone, this is a fine place to make that discovery. Admission is just a few bucks for adults and less for seniors and children under eighteen. On the website you will be able to see a full calendar of events which are sure to entertain year round. Yes, they have people dressed up in respective period attire.
Busch Gardens
This place is worth the fifteen minute drive from town. Endless thrill rides and themed sections of the park will be sure to amaze. This fun packed yet quaint theme park is a guaranteed good time for anyone with a heartbeat. A classic ride and must see is the loch ness monster. Fly through the beautiful setting of the park and hold on tight as you are thrust through the densely wooded area on this particular attraction. For those who have been before, there are plenty of recently added attractions such as the parks new ride in 2012, the Verboten. They take a break between January through most of March so don’t plan on going there during there down time. Beyond that, just go! It’s only the right thing to do.
Oyster Point
This is a great way to do some shopping or just window shopping. An open aired market style pocket in town has a variety of shops and services. Highly touted as the new center of the city, residents and businesses thrive in this up and coming part of town. A fine example of modern life and commerce created to beautify the city. Plenty of parking makes it nice for the impatient. Restaurants abound for the hungry and thirsty.
If a city were to have a nickname as simply “The Beach”, that beach better live up to that moniker! Well, simply put, Miami Beach is “The Beach” and so much more! If you are looking for adult fun, family fun or any other type of fun that you wish to have, Miami Beach does not run short of fun for you! From South Beach to North Beach, Miami Beach will keep you busy with tons of activities to do!
South Pointe Park
Starting off with South Beach, South Pointe Park offers a relaxing, yet modern way to relax at the beach. Perfect place to bike, hike, set up a picnic, walk your dog, hang out with your friends, if you want to do something, South Pointe Park will offer the space to do it! Take my advice and be sure to watch the sunset there at least once during your trip! You won’t be disappointed.
Art Deco Historic District
Perfect place to take a walk or a tour, the Art Deco Historic District gives you over 800 art deco buildings all within about a mile. If you are a fan of art, you surely will not be let down. Check the website for special events such as the famous Art Deco weekend held in mid January!
Holocaust Memorial
While Miami Beach has plenty of options for fun, one important and beautiful place to visit takes on a more serious tone. The Holocaust memorial in Miami Beach will simply take your breath away. Come and pay your respects to those we have lost and witness breath taking architecture like you have never seen!
Haulover Beach
Remember watching those movies or shows that showed people in nude beaches and wondered where they were located? Well, one of our country’s best resides right here in Miami Beach. Do not worry as not the whole beach is nude, only about 35-40% of the beach is sectioned off for nude guests, so the beach is still family friendly. Haulover Beach has increasingly become a popular place to visit as they average about 7,000 visitors a day!
Lincoln Road
One of the two famous hot spots for visitors when visiting South Beach is Lincoln Road. Here we have 8 blocks of restaurants, bars, clubs, hip hotels, tons of shopping, cigar shops and more! Perfect place to take a walk during a nice day and enjoy the scenery and really take in Miami Beach!
Ocean Drive
The second of the very famous hot spot destinations of visitors in Miami Beach, Ocean drive starts at South Pointe on 1st St and runs to 15th St. Here again, you will find the lavish hotels and architecture that Miami has become known for with beautiful buildings, restaurants, clubs and other fun places to experience along the way. You simply cannot say you have visited Miami Beach without spending some time on Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive.
Espanola Way
We haven’t forgotten about the famed and celebrated Hispanic and Cuban roots that are in place in Miami Beach. Come and visit Espanola Way on 14th St between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenue to enjoy nice restaurants, tours, music and dancing that has been inspired from the Hispanic and Cuban roots located in Miami Beach! Don’t be surprised if you run in to a celebrity here on your visit as it is a very popular place to visit and spend time in!
Ocean Force Adventures
The perfect place to close out the list of places to visit in Miami Beach, Ocean Force Adventures is a one of a kind boat tour that will seem almost like a thrill ride! Using the same boats used by the FBI and Special Police, you know… those fast high paced ones, Ocean Force Adventures sends you on a 2 hour tour that will allow you to uncover the beauty of Miami Beach!
Those that have traveled to Mobile, AL know that Mobile is a city that is continually growing and evolving. Located on the central part of the Gulf Coast and the Mobile River, Mobile is the birthplace of Mardi Gras and knows how to throw one heck of a party. Don’t be fooled though, we are still in the south, and the “Mobilians” sure do remind you of how great Southern Hospitality is. Come and partake in one of the many festivals, or take some time to relax. Mobile has a little bit of everything for everyone!
Mardi Gras
As much hype that New Orleans gets for their Mardi Gras party, Mobile is the true home and birthplace of Mardi Gras. Plan your vacation accordingly and be ready to have your party hat on for one unforgettable experience! Families don’t need to fear as all parades in Mobile are family friendly!
USS Alabama Battleship
Annually voted as one of the best tourist stops in Mobile, one can truly take part in a memorable experience that allows us to view and learn submarines, ships and planes that have been used in past wars. Come and take part in one of the many events and adventures offered at the museum.
Museum of Mobile
For a city that was founded in 1702, you better believe that there is a lot of history to be uncovered and learned about. Come visit this fun museum where you will be able to learn about the history, heritage and culture that has shaped this great city. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a much higher respect and appreciation of this great city.
Mobile Carnival Museum
The birthplace of Mardi Gras must have a great history of floats and other fun things right? Correct! Here, we can walk through time and see past floats, costumes and other designs that has shaped the way we think of what Mardi Gras is. Here, we can also view past parades that are truly a crowd pleaser!
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Mobile is proud to be the home of one of the most beautiful Cathedrals if not just in the country, but in the world. While the Cathedral was built in 1850, its beauty remains intact after so many years. Open for mass, tours and weddings, there are not enough words that can describe how beautiful this Cathedral is. This is truly one that you have to see for your own eyes.
The Mobile Bay
While Mobile may not be known for white sands and blue waters, the Mobile bay does offer a great time to be had on the sand. With many events, exhibits and outdoor adventures to be had, the Mobile bay offers a great family fun experience. Not to be forgotten, there are plenty of fresh seafood restaurants, delta expeditions and golf courses that will please everyone!
Dauphin St.
Dauphin St. in Mobile truly has a little of everything for everyone. From fancy restaurants, to hip bars, and to even having a skyscraper on the street, Dauphin St. is a great place to start out your day or night. Family friendly and also has a ton of adult fun options; you simply cannot go wrong with visiting Dauphin St. in Mobile!
Golf!
There are too many great golf courses to just state one; Mobile has plenty of top golf courses that are open to the public. If you are an avid golfer or just wanting play for the fun of it, Mobile welcomes you to hit the links and experience one of the many gorgeous golf courses available! Fore!
Established in the late 19th century as an important river crossing, Tempe, Arizona was originally a center of agriculture and farming. However, that all changed when they founded a teachers’ college there that would eventually become Arizona State University. Nowadays, Tempe looks and feels like a college town, but has a myriad of cultural and athletic attractions. In case you want to venture a little ways off the beaten path, we have compiled a list of some of the more unique and fun things to do in Tempe. Check out some of these attractions and enjoy your visit to Tempe!
Arizona Historical Society Museum
The goal of this museum is to gather data about the history of central Arizona and make it relevant to today’s generations. Through the use of creative exhibits and dioramas, the museum covers much of Tempe’s history, along with other crucial moments in Arizona history. Tours are available and there is also a gift shop and library.
Arizona State University Art Museum
Housed in an interesting contemporary building, you will recognize this museum when you see it. Named “the single most impressive venue for contemporary art in Arizona” by Art in America magazine, this museum is a great place to visit for art-lovers in Tempe. They display a wide variety of artists and pieces, focusing on modern, Latin, and folk art.
Arizona State University Campus
Even if you are not planning to attend school there, a trip to the Arizona State University Campus is a great idea. Head there to just walk around and explore, or pick up a map at the visitors center and uncover the beautiful campus. They have basic campus maps, maps of all the public art, and even a plant map to give your exploration some more direction.
Arizona State University Planetarium
For astronomy buffs and science lovers, the planetarium on the Arizona State University campus is a must-visit destination. Open for public shows on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and reservations are required. However, groups can also schedule tours anytime during the day or evening.
Big Surf Waterpark
Whether you have kids or just like water parks, Big Surf is a great place to go to escape the Tempe heat. Covering 20 acres, this park is complete with a wave pool, water slides, and activity areas. They also have H2Overload on Friday nights for some fun without the sun.
Kiwanis Community Park
For those looking to get away from the Tempe city streets, head over to Kiwanis Community Park, a local favorite. Covering 125 acres, this park includes a lake where you can boat and fish, as well as numerous other activity areas. There is also a recreation center, which has an indoor wave pool and a gymnasium.
Petersen House Museum
Built in 1892, this Victorian Home was renovated in the 1930s and is now in the National Historic Register. Restored and open to visitors, it offers a look into the past of Tempe, from the early settlement days to the Depression era. While there, it is worth noting the creative architecture that was designed specifically for Tempe’s sun and heat.
Tempe Bakery / Hackett House
Another historic building, the Hackett House is also open for viewing. Originally used as a bakery, the building was built in the late 1800’s and is the oldest fired red-brick building in Tempe. It was later converted into a residence and is now home to the Tempe Sister City organization, who operating a gift shop and museum rooms.
Tempe Beach Park and Town Lake
Created by reclaiming the waters of the Salt River, this manmade lake was officially opened in November 1999. The two mile long lake is contained using inflatable rubber dams. The 25-acre park surrounding it offers plenty of recreational opportunities, including bike paths, picnic areas, and boat rentals for taking out on the lake.
One of the most beautiful places in the world, Hawaii is an extremely popular vacation destination. In spite of this, the Aloha State has managed to preserve much of the natural beauty that makes it such a great place to be. While you’re in Hawaii, there is nothing wrong with just doing the tourist thing or even just lying on the beach. However, if you want to venture away from the crowds a little bit, try some of these great alternatives that we have found just for you.
Manoa Falls
While you're in Hawaii, you should definitely try to get in some hiking. It's a great way to take in some of the amazing scenery and get back to nature. That being said, Manoa Falls is a great place for beginners to hike and travels through the lush Manoa Valley and ends at a waterfall. The trail is less than a mile long and relatively flat, so this is a great hike for everyone.
Koko Head
For those of you looking for a more difficult hiking experience, you should check out Koko Head. What was once an old railway track is now a great hike going up the side of a mountain. Unlike Manoa Falls, the Koko Head trail does not have the lush foliage of Manoa Valley, but it does have a spectacular view at the top. Overall, this is a relatively short, but strenuous hike, and is very satisfying at the end of it.
Makapu'u Point
On the easier end of the spectrum of hikes on Oahu is the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail. A paved, winding road that leads up to a lookout overlooking a lighthouse, this is a nice, easy hike that the whole family can do. One of the nice things about this trail is that there are also side trails there that take you to old military bunkers on top of the mountain and to tide pools down by the ocean.
Diamond Head
Finally, the easiest hike on this list is definitely the Diamond Head trail. Named by 19th -century British sailors who thought that the crystals they saw in the soil were diamonds; it is one of the most recognizable symbols of Hawaii. Overall, this is a very easy hike that the entire family can do. There is no rough terrain and it is paved the whole way.
North Shore
For a look at the more natural side of Hawaii, head on over to the North Shore. With many of the residents resisting development, the North Shore has remained a great place to visit, and is a stark contrast to the developed city of Honolulu. While you’re there, you obviously can’t miss the amazing beaches, but also be sure to make a trip to Haleiwa for some world famous Matsumoto’s Shaved Ice.
Waimea Bay Beach Park
One of my personal favorite destinations on the island of Oahu is Waimea Bay Beach Park. Not only is this a great white sand beach, but it definitely has a trick or two up its sleeve. During the winter months, this beach offers some of the best surfing you will find. However, we recommend you head there during the summer months, when the water is a lot calmer and you can jump off the 25 foot rock right into the clear blue ocean. This is really a one-of-a-kind experience that you should not miss.
USS Arizona Memorial
Visitors to Hawaii should also think about going to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Commemorating the 1,177 men who lost their lives during the bombing of Pearl Harbor, this memorial is a truly unique experience for visitors. In addition to exhibits on the shore, the tours include a ride to the memorial built over the sunken battleship. We recommend going early in the day when it is less crowded.
Bishop Museum
Founded in 1889 as a repository for the Bishop family’s artifacts, the Bishop Museum has become the state’s premiere institution for documenting the state’s history. This is a great place to learn about and experience the history of the Aloha State through a wide variety of exhibits and performances.
Dole Plantation
What was once just a road-side fruit stand has now become the Dole Plantation. Attractions here include the World’s Largest Maze, and the twenty minute Pineapple Express train tour. However, easily my favorite part of the Dole Plantation and the main reason I go there every time I am in Hawaii is Dole Whip, the amazing pineapple soft serve treat they sell at the Plantation Grille café.
Maui, HI
The second largest island in the state of Hawaii, Maui is a can’t miss travel destination. Home to a number of amazing beaches and great sightseeing opportunities, Maui also has a number of great attractions that you will take you off the beaten path. Just for you, we have compiled a list of some of the more unique and fun things to do and see while you’re in Hawaii. See below and enjoy!
Haleakala National Park
Covering more than 27,000 acres, the Haleakala national park is home to a wide variety of terrains and climates, including the Haleakala Mountain. A dormant volcano, the mountain, whose name means “House of the Sun”, is probably one of the best places in the world to watch the sun rise. Other activities in the park include hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
Ho’okipa Beach
While it is not the best beach for swimming, Ho’okipa Beach is still definitely worth checking out. Known as one of the best places to wind-surf, this is a great place to just hang out while watching world-class talents do things that will make your jaw drop. There are also grills available on the grounds, so you can cook some lunch while you are there relaxing.
Ka’eleku Caverns
For an opportunity to see something you are unlikely to find elsewhere, visitors should head to the Ka’eleku Caverns. An underground network of caves formed during the creation of the island, these caverns offer great sightseeing opportunities for those with a geological inclination. Visitors should dress appropriately, wearing long pants and comfortable shoes.
Maui Myth & Magic Theatre
While we recommend enjoying the outdoors as much as you can while visiting Hawaii, visitors might also be interested in taking in a show at the Maui Myth & Magic Theatre. In a theatre that was designed specifically for the show, this production combines tradition and technology to put on a spectacular show. While tickets are not cheap, they are reasonably priced for a show of this caliber, which you can only see here.
Oheo Gulch
Sometimes referred to as the “Seven Sacred Pools”, this attraction actually boasts more than seven pools, none of which are sacred. Despite that, they are still an amazing sight to see and a great way to cool off after a long day. We definitely recommend coming here and seeing and experiencing Oheo Gulch for yourself.
Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach
For a truly unique attraction, head over to this amazing red sand beach. Set in a small, isolated cove, this beach has a sheltered bay that is great for swimming and snorkeling. The sand, which is actually made of cinders from old volcanic activity, is a spectacular sight. While getting to the beach is somewhat challenging, it is well worth it, as pictures do not do justice to the magnificence of this beach.
Wai’anapanapa State Park
A free copy of this guide if you can pronounce the name of this park. Home to a number of freshwater caves, created by ancient lava tubes, this park is a great place to visit while you are on Maui. Hiking is available throughout the park, although we recommend staying on the paved paths unless you are familiar with the area. What the park is really known for, though, is its majestic black-sand beach, a truly amazing sight.
Wailua and Kanahualui Falls
Since you’re probably expecting to see a waterfall or two while you are in Hawaii, we recommend seeing the Wailua and Kanahualui waterfalls. Picturesque examples of what waterfalls should be, these are great places to come take a picture and just take in the natural beauty of Hawaii.
Authentic Hawaiian Luaus
While you’re in Hawaii, we highly recommend you experience an authentic Hawaiian Luau. They are a great way to experience a slice of Hawaiian culture and history while also enjoying great food and fun. There are a number of great options available on the island of Maui, so ask around to see which one would be best for you.
Kauai is the oldest of the original islands of Hawaii, and looking around; it is easy to see how well the island has aged. As beautiful as Kauai sounds on its own, the island is known as the garden isle. With beautiful greens and waves surrounding the island, it will make leaving one of the hardest things you will ever have to do!
Allerton Garden
Once the site of a private estate, Allerton Garden is now a member of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Located on the South Shore of the island, the Gardens are made up of a series of unique outdoor venues that include fountains, statues, and exotic plantings of both rare and native plants. Be sure to call ahead though, as advance reservations are required for entrance.
Hanalei Bay
While you can’t go wrong when going to the beach on Kauai, we would like to mention Hanalei Bay as a place to check out. Located on the North Shore of the island, the large bay has a number of great beaches and is protected by coral reefs. Additionally, while conditions get a little rougher during the winter, they remain manageable, making this a great place to visit year-round.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Built in 1913, the Kilauea Lighthouse is located high above the ocean on the North Shore of Kauai. While the original light has been replaced, it remains an active lighthouse, assisting local sailors. However, you should head here for the amazing views this site offers, as well as the chance to see the native fauna from one of the nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
Na Pali Coast and State Park
As any local will tell you, one of the best parts of Hawaii is the hiking. With Kauai being one of the most naturally preserved islands in the state, there are some really great hikes to be found there. One of the greatest hikes I’ve ever seen can be found along the Na Pali Coast and State Park. Be warned, though: many people find the hikes here to be very difficult and there is some risk involved with cliffside trails and the danger of flash floods. However, if you are aware of these and prepare yourself adequately, the experience is well worth it.
Kuilau Ridge Trail
If you’re looking for something a little less strenuous than the Na Pali hikes, then the Kuilau Ridge Trail is right for you. A relatively easy hike, it starts out gentle and has a consistent incline, which can be tiring over time. Luckily, though, there is also a great picnic area about halfway up that will let you stop and get some rest if you need it. Overall, the hike should take about three hours, during which you’ll get to see amazing views of the coast, valleys, and mountains.
Waimea Canyon
When you go to Hawaii, you probably don’t expect to hear much about the Grand Canyon. However, Waimea Canyon might make you think of the giant Arizona gorge, given the nickname “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” by none other than Mark Twain. Even though the entire island is only 26 miles across, the canyon measures 10 miles long, a mile wide, and about 3600 feet deep. Unlike the dusty Canyon on the mainland, though, Waimea canyon is covered with lush vegetation coloring the canyon shades of red, green, blue, gray, and purple. This is truly a must-see attraction while you’re on Kauai.
Queen’s Bath
Located on the North Shore of Kauai, the Queen’s Bath is a relatively large tide pool housed right up against the ocean. The level of the pool depends on the level of the ocean and the time of year. During the summer months, this is a great place to visit, as you can see some amazing marine life right in the clear waters of the bath. However, it is extremely important to realize that it is very dangerous during the winter months, as the water is rougher and the waves reach higher on the rocks. This is a great place to visit from April to August, but we do not recommend going outside of those months.
Limahuli Garden and Preserve
Hidden away in the Limahuli Valley is the gem that is the Limahuli Garden and Preserve. With the stated mission of protecting Hawaii’s native species and conserving the tropical ecosystem, this is a spectacular sight to see. A member of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, the 17-acre site has labeled the plants for the education of visitors. You have the option of taking a guided tour or guiding yourself, but you will need to make a reservation to gain entry.
Kamokila Hawaiian Village
Erected on the site of an ancient Hawaiian village, this present-day compound features replica homes and community buildings that you would find in such a village. Located along the Wailua River, the Kamokila Hawaiian Village teaches visitors about the islands before they encountered Western Civilization. In addition to taking in numerous demonstrations ranging from cloth to poi-making, visitors should be sure to try some of the fruit that grows there.
While Houston may not be the capital of Texas, it is the largest city in the state and boy does it have a lot to offer! With basically containing everything that someone would want to experience, Houston is home to various locations of NASA, museums, theater districts and other cultural institutions that attract millions of people every year. With a sports team in every major sport except for hockey, it would be easy to find something to do every night in the wonderful city of Houston which proves the adage correct that everything is “bigger in Texas.”
The Galleria
Why did we put a mall on the list of one of the must do things while in Houston? Because simply put, the Galleria in Houston Texas is not just a mall, it is an experience and it is a destination! With over 375 stores, restaurants, 2 hotels and a giant ice rink all inside the Galleria, it provides everyone with a different experience every time you walk in. With 2.4 million square feet of space, you better get your walking shoes one when arriving at the mall!
Sporting Events
With major local sport teams such as the Houston Texans, Houston Rockets and Houston Astros, visiting one of these parks for a game provides a great experience to be had with friends and family. Come early to tail gate and stay late and enjoy the nightlife around the stadium. If you are a sports fan, you cannot find much better cities than Houston!
Miller Outdoor Theatre
One of the best kept secrets of Houston is their wonderful outdoor theatre. With all shows absolutely free, come and take in the fresh air and a great show! Come early to get a seat in the box office, or bring a blanket and snacks and lay out in the beautiful weather while enjoying a show! Miller Outdoor Theatre has something for everyone, so check their website to find the right show for you!
Houston Museum District
Well, we told you above that Houston is known for some of their great art and museums... How great is it? Well they have their very own museum district that offers over 10 museums to be enjoyed and experienced. From the Holocaust museum to the Houston zoo, there is again, simply something for everyone!
Houston Urban Adventures Tour
Here we can take a tour of the downtown historic district of Houston. The tour will allow us to uncover little known facts of the city, as well as open us to carriage rides, historic tunnels and buildings, as well as a famous pub crawl. After leaving this tour, you will be sure to leave Houston with a whole new perspective on this wonderful city!
Segway Tour of Houston
While we all know of walking and boating tours in Houston, how about a fun new alternative to learning about the city, and what’s more fun than riding a long a Segway with your family and friends!? Experience many parts of this large and growing city, but be sure to dress accordingly with appropriate shoes. Pick a nice day and enjoy the weather and city in a new and fun way!
Saint Arnold Brewing Company
Saint Arnold is Texas’s oldest craft brewery and one of the best destinations to go to for adults. With tours Monday-Saturday and cheap in price under $8, visiting Saint Arnold and experiencing how they brew the famous beer is quite the experience. Check their website for weekly and monthly events, as they have special events for local sporting events and other fun events and competitions!
Williams Waterwall Park
Located in the uptown district of Houston, Waterwall Park offers great space to be enjoyed by everyone, but is mainly famous for one thing, and it is the Williams Water-wall. This is a manmade fountain attraction that has to be seen to be fully appreciated. Built in 1983, this fountain is 64 feet tall and contains 78,500 gallons of water. Beautiful and amazing will be two words that come out of everyone’s mouth after witnessing this beautiful architecture.
