Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Lake Tahoe is often referred to as the perfect year round vacation and wedding destination with terrific weather and breathtaking scenery! Split down the middle by the California and Nevada border, Lake Tahoe boasts of over 300 days of warm sunshine, 396 inches of annual snowfall, 18 world-class ski and snowboarding resorts, incredible golf courses,  fantastic hotels, casinos and of course, beautiful blue Lake Tahoe itself!

Lake Tahoe Hiking Boasts

Eagle Falls / Eagle Lake

This trail starts at Eagle Falls Picnic Area, highway 89 across from Emerald Bay. Permits are required on this hike and a self-registration station is at the trailhead. The hike is only about 2 miles round trip to Eagle Lake (only about 1/3 mile to the falls); the terrain varies from steep to flat and crosses beautiful Eagle Falls on a steel footbridge.

Emerald Bay – Vikingsholm

Trail starts at the parking area on the north side of Emerald Bay, on Highway 89. It’s a wide, well-maintained trail, but fairly steep, about 2½ miles round trip. At the bottom of the trail is a picnic area, as well as world-famous Vikingsholm, a replica of a Scandinavian castle.

Mount Rose Meadows

It could be the most accessible hiking trail in Lake Tahoe, which also makes it one of the busiest. Mount Rose meadows winds along the west side of Mt Rose Highway to the top of Mount Rose. Set aside a minimum of 3.5 hours.

Glacier Meadow Loop

A very short, self-guided nature trail that begins and ends at the Eastbound I-80 rest stop on Donner Summit. This is a relaxing stroll with signs along the trail explaining how glacial action carved and polished the area.

Loch Leven Lakes

Three beautiful glacial tarns make up the Loch Leven group. A well-graded trail climbs 3 miles to the first lake and then reaches two more in the next few miles. The island-dotted lakes are beautiful and excellent for swimming. Trailhead: Big Bend Exit off I-80. The parking lot is 1/8 mile east of the Visitor Center. A good hike if you’re headed for Sacramento or the Bay Area at day’s end.

Lower Lola Montez Lake

From I-80 west of Truckee, take the Soda Springs exit. Make two quick rights, passing the fire station, to the trailhead and parking area. Follow the trail north until you come to a road that will take you across Castle Creek (may cause some wet feet in springtime). Follow road about ¼ mile to a trail which veers to the right. Another ¼ mile ahead, the trail rejoins the road. Continue climbing on the road about 1 mile until you reach a flat, open meadow where the road ends. The trail begins in the meadow but may be difficult to follow due to overgrowth. At the fork in the meadow, bear right to go to the lake, which is about ¼ mile ahead. There are campsites and fishing. This is an easy 6-mile round-trip hike. Much of the trail is on private property; hikers are requested to stay on the trail and observe the rights of landowners.

Marlette Lake

Trail starts near Spooner Lake Picnic Area, at the junction of Highway 28 and 50, Nevada (green metal gate on east side of 28). It’s about 5 miles each way to the lake but it’s mostly mild terrain (one full day will do it). Years ago, its water was diverted to Incline Village via flume and used to shoot logs through a tunnel to Washoe Valley for use in the Virginia City mines.

Rubicon Trail

This shoreline route starts in D. L. Bliss State Park, about 13 miles south of Tahoe City on Highway 89. The trail has moderate ups and downs, following an undeveloped portion of Lake Tahoe’s shoreline for about 3 miles to the mouth of Emerald Bay. From there it follows the Bay shoreline another One ½ – Two miles to Vikingsholm. (NOTE: Vikingsholm up to Highway 89 us a steep mile but the hearty can return along the highway instead of doubling back on the trail.) Handicap accommodations are available with advance reservation. State Park fee: $5 per vehicle. No dogs are allowed on the trails in state parks.

 Shirley Lake

It’s in Squaw Valley and the trail starts at the end of Squaw Peak Road. (There are numerous trails which follow the creek up to Shirley Lake; this is one of them.) It follows Squaw Creek about 2½ miles each way to Shirley Lake, passing gorgeous waterfalls and canyon boulders. (Top of tram to Shirley Lake adds considerable distance.) Going uphill, stay to the left of the creek; going downhill, stay to the right. The trail diverges and disappears at times but just keep following the creek and you’ll get there. Carry water. The hike is somewhat difficult and takes 2½ – 3 hours. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes.

Tunnel Creek Station

Trail road starts at Nevada Highway 28, across from Hidden Beach, about 1 mile past Ponderosa Ranch (no sign, look for gate). A steep trail road, about 1½ miles each way, at the ruins of the western portal of the old log flume tunnel. Limited parking along Highway 28.

Lake Tahoe Attractions

Heavenly Scenic Gondola Rides

If you have only one day to spend in South Lake Tahoe, take this mountain ride. My twin 6-year-old boys begged for a second trip up Heavenly Mountain. We went up 2.5 miles to see a spectacular view of Lake Tahoe at The Deck — a 14,000-square-foot place to breath in the jaw-droopingly beautiful Tahoe view. Pack a picnic lunch, and snack at one of the clean picnic tables while taking in the phenomenal view. You’ll also find wandering rangers, who want more than anything to be asked about their favorite topic.

HeliTahoe Helicopters

HeliTahoe offers scenic tours of Tahoe at all price ranges. Fly for 10 minutes over Emerald Bay, 20 minutes over the south shore, 30 minutes over Sand Harbor, or take a 60-minute sunset cruise. All offer very cool experiences.

Kid Zone Museum

For most of us, the word “museum” conjures up images of boring stuff to look at. Not so at this kids’ museum. From its elaborate farm theme with small versions of haylofts and ridable miniature tractors to its adorable playhouse, it’s all about hands-on fun. One night every month, the Kid Zone offers a “Parents Night Out.” For a reasonable price, you can leave the kids in play heaven from 5:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Call for prices and scheduling.

Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts

Ski enthusiasts throughout the world know Tahoe, thanks to the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley USA. And, while Squaw is certainly a go-to resort for top-flight skiers (and families too, we might add), locals and regulars know that Squaw is but one of a bevy of fine resorts, each delivering its own particular brand of charm and first-class schussing for families with skill levels that range from beginner to black-diamond hot-dagger.

MS Dixie II Paddlewheeler

MS Dixie II is an old paddlewheel boat that actually hauled cotton on the Mississippi in the 1920′s. One of my 6-year-old sons devoured every moment of the two-hour cruise from Zephyr Cove to the famed Emerald Bay, but the other boy, also 6, put his head down on an indoor table and fell asleep. My husband and I enjoyed the trip, especially when we made it to Emerald Bay and learned about Vikingsholm Castle.

Magic Carpet Golf

Magic Carpet Golf has two locations — one on the north shore and a second on the south shore — to serve when that inevitable miniature golf urge hits. It’s fun and entertaining for the kids.

Northstar-at-Tahoe Mountain Bike Park

A biking enthusiast friend recently told me that he had once thought, “why would I pay good money to bike down a mountain? I can bike for free anytime on the river trails.” Last summer, he finally decided to do a day at the Northstar Bike Park and proceeded to spend 13 days last summer alone blasting down the trails, jumping hills, and maneuvering around obstacles. Mountain biking at Tahoe is for the thrill-seekers among us, not for those who love a quiet Sunday ride. The rides are steep (full protective gear required), and injuries can occur, so proceed with wisdom and caution.

Shakespeare Festival

With an incredible setting and scene-stealing back drop of Lake Tahoe, this event is certainly not “much ado about nothing.” Lake Tahoe’s Shakespeare Festival is famous in these parts. If you’re in Tahoe (north or south), find time to sit under the stars in this beautiful outdoor amphitheater, and enjoy this classic Tahoe summer pastime. Visit the festival’s site, and click on the “for kids” window. You’ll find well-designed programs for children that help kids become comfortable and familiar with the Bard’s important works.

Tahoe Adventure Company

The Tahoe Adventure Company offers kayak tours, hiking, biking and rock climbing — all with expert tour guides. From May to October, try a two-hour introductory paddle, or go for the five-hour trip, and really get to know the intricacies of Lake Tahoe. Sunset and moonlight trips are always popular, but so is an astronomy tour. The “lodge to lodge” kayak paddle program lets you paddle from one amazing hotel on the lake to another, spend the night, enjoy the amenities and awaken ready for a new day of paddling and exploring.

Tahoe Whitewater Tours

As a kid, I had an absolute blast whitewater rafting down the Truckee River. Almost four decades later, I have great memories of the fun my family and I had when we booked a trip with another family and let the company handle everything, from life jackets to a white-tablecloth lunch. And that’s exactly how the Tahoe White Water Tour folks handle it, too. They take care of everything, from start to finish, so you can sit back and enjoy the wild ride. Call to discuss specific river rides, kids’ ages and skill levels. Kids 8 and older have the most fun. This activity is highly recommended.

Taylor Creek Visitor Center

Taylor Creek is absolutely a don’t-miss place to take the whole family if your plans include a face-to-face experience with the wilds of Lake Tahoe. We just happened to visit during October, when the Kokanee Salmon spawn (laying eggs and then dying), and a black bear sauntered out of the brush and calmly reached into the creek for easy pickings. Summers are wonderful at Taylor Creek. Special programs for kids, ages 6 to 12, are on the schedule almost every day. Spend evenings sitting around a campfire, hearing legends and facts about the region. Smokey the Bear and Mark Twain are known to make scheduled visits to talk about the Tahoe region. It’s an easy walk for little legs, and strollers a breeze to navigate on these trails.

Vikingsholm Castle

Vikingsholm Castle is a win-win activity for families. Parents will find the castle fascinating, thanks to its rich history and architecture, and kids will love it for the running around and swimming activities the castle affords. Caution for parents with small kids: It’s a steep, 1.7-mile walk to this castle, and, if you’re not used to the thin mountain air and elevation, it can be a challenge. However, I’ve seen 5- and 6-year-olds hike to the castle, so it’s certainly possible. There are plenty of nice resting spots along the way. On the trail down, you’ll see butterflies, wild flowers and waterfalls, and at the castle itself boasts 39 rooms to explore.

Beaches of Tahoe

Commons Beach in Tahoe City

This one is too rocky for great swimming, but kids can build sandcastles and navigate the fun climbing wall and play structure. Free Sunday summer concerts, grassy areas, bathrooms and picnic tables under trees are offered.

Kings Beach State Recreation Area

At this classic beach, spend an entire day soaking up everything summer. The kids will love the great play structure, free weekly movies and live concerts.

Sand Harbor State Recreation Beach

This is Lake Tahoe’s sweetest strip of sand, featuring turquoise water, fun rock formations to climb and jump from, easy parking, great bathrooms, barbecues and picnic tables.

Round Hill Pines Beach & Marina

Beautiful Round Hill Beach offers great parking, bathrooms and the best in water sports, including paddle boats and wave runners.

Regan Beach

More of a park then a beach, Regan beach provides a fun play structure, volleyball court and extensive snack bar. Regan is also is a great place to catch the fireworks on the Fourth of July. You’ll be close enough to the magic, but far away from the gridlock of traffic.

Meeks Bay

This is Tahoe at its best — crystal-clear swimming water, white-sand beaches. Picnic, barbecue, and make great memories in the great family atmosphere.

Zephyr Cove

Like Hawaii, this area offers lots of water sports, sand, sun and maybe even a margarita or two. Zephyr Cove offers great parking, bathrooms and activities.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a great location to enjoy some of the most diverse and beautiful scenery in the United States. Boston is a historical city, home to the Freedom Trail and the U.S.S. Constitution. Plymouth allows a look back at the Pilgrim’s voyage to America on the Mayflower. A visit to the Springfield Armory National Historic Site reveals one of the world’s largest firearms collections. Minute Man National Historical Park in Concord preserves several sites that relate to the battles of the American Revolution. The Berkshires (or the Berkshire Hills) region in western Massachusetts is a favored resort destination with several attractive villages and attractions such as the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge. Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket are filled with many classic seaside towns whose architecture has been emulated worldwide.

Massachusetts Attractions

New England Aquarium

The Aquariums extensive collection includes the exotic and the familiar. More than 70 exhibits feature aquatic animals from as far away as India, the Amazon Rain Forest and Hawaii and as near as the Maine coast. And marine mammals make a big splash in daily presentations aboard Discovery, a unique floating pavilion.

Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology

Founded in 1866, the Peabody Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world devoted to anthropology and houses one of the most comprehensive records of human cultural history in the Western Hemisphere.

The Butterfly Place

The Butterfly Place is an indoor living environment which has been carefully designed for the propagation and development of some of nature’s most colorful living creations.

Moby Duck Sightseeing

A unique 55 minute family experience aboard amphibious U.S.C.G. certified vessels. Enjoy this narrated tour, with your personal, licensed Captain at the helm and narration by your “”Duck Mate”". Your trip will provide spectacular panoramic views, by “”land and sea”". A calm sightseeing cruise will provide fun for the entire family.

Cabot Street Cinema Theatre

Restored 1920 theatre offering magic shows and movie classics.

Ocean Spray’s Cranberry World Visitors’ Center

Exhibits and interactive displays bring you the history of the cranberry from Native American times to present day. Learn how cranberries are grown and harvested, how your favorite juice company was formed, and how the growers who own the company work at preserving the environment while bringing you the wonderful products you know and love.

Fall River Carousel

Located at Battleship Cove is the magnificent Fall River Carousel. Fully restored to its previous splendor, this Philadelphia Toboggan Company Carousel #54 is now housed in a beautiful Victorian-style pavilion. This seventy-three year old carousel, with its 48 majestic steeds and two spectacular chariots, is the oldest functioning carousel in America.

Green Briar Nature Center and Jam Kitchen

The old jam kitchen was started in 1903 where they still make jam “the old fashioned way.”  The nature center is great for families with exhibits, nature trails, a wildflower garden and organized programs.

Cape Cod Duckmobile

The Cape Cod Duckmobile offers narrated land and sea tours aboard an amphibious vehicle.

Breezy Picnic Grounds Waterslides

Breezy Picnic Grounds is a family-owned recreational facility nestled in the heart of the Blackstone Valley National Heritage Corridor in south central Massachusetts. The facility features two 300′ Alpine waterslides, picnic areas, lake swimming with 500 ft. beach & sandy areas for kids, game rooms, snack bar and more.

Davis’ Farmland & MegaMaze

Two great parks and twice the fun. Davis’ Mega Maze is a world class field maze. Designed for adults, but enjoyed by all ages, it’s the ultimate 3-D challenge of your life!  Davis’ Farmland is “”home”" to the nation’s largest exhibit of endangered farm animals and part of a seven generation family farm, operating in Sterling since 1846. Farmland features discovery learning.\

Nash Dinosaur Tracks

Collection of bones and fossils found on site.

Magic Wings

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens consists of a 14,400 square foot facility that includes a 4,000 sq. ft. glass conservatory filled with butterflies, moths and tropical vegetation.

Massachusetts National Parks

Adams National Historic Park

Adams National Historical Park is located in the City of Quincy, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, approximately ten miles south of Boston. The site comprises 11 historic structures and a cultural landscape totaling almost 14 acres. The site provides a unique opportunity for preservation, education and participation in the history and development of the United States, the Revolutionary War, and the United States Presidency.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a 2,167-mile (3,488 km) footpath along the ridge crests and across the major valleys of the Appalachian Mountains from Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in north Georgia. The trail traverses Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia.

Boston National Historic Park

Discover the revolutionary generation of Bostonians who blazed a trail from colonialism to independence. Boston National Historical Park is an association of sites that together give the visitor a coherent view of the city’s role in the nation’s history.

Boston African American National Historic Site

Located in the heart of Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood, the site includes 15 pre-Civil War structures relating to the history of Boston’s 19th century African-American community, including: the African Meeting House, the oldest standing African-American church in the United States.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Boston Harbor Islands national park area includes 30 islands situated within the Greater Boston shoreline. The islands are rich in natural and cultural resources.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod National Seashore comprises 43,604 acres of shoreline and upland landscape features, including a forty-mile long stretch of pristine sandy beach, dozens of clear, deep, freshwater kettle ponds, and upland scenes that depict evidence of how people have used the land. A variety of historic structures are within the boundary of the Seashore, including lighthouses, a lifesaving station, and numerous Cape Cod style houses. The Seashore offers six swimming beaches, eleven self-guiding nature trails, and a variety of picnic areas and scenic overlooks.

Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site

Frederick Law Olmsted (1822-1903) is recognized as the founder of American landscape architecture and the nation’s foremost parkmaker. Olmsted moved his home to suburban Boston in 1883 and established at “Fairsted” the world’s first full-scale professional office for the practice of landscape design. Over the course of the next century, his sons and successors expanded and perpetuated Olmsted’s design ideals, philosophy, and influence.

John F. Kennedy National Historic Site

John F. Kennedy National Historic Site preserves the birthplace in 1917 and boyhood home of the 35th President of the United States. The modest frame house in suburban Boston was also the first home shared by the president’s father and mother, Joseph P. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, and represents the social and political beginnings of one of the world’s most prominent families.

Longfellow National Historic Site

Longfellow National Historic Site is an outstanding example of a historic site representing the themes of arts and literature. For almost half a century (1837-1882) this was the home of one of the world’s foremost poets, scholars and educators, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Lowell National Historic Park

The history of America’s Industrial Revolution is commemorated in Lowell, Massachusetts. The Boott Cotton Mills Museum with its operating weave room of 88 power looms, “mill girl” boardinghouses, the Suffolk Mill Turbine Exhibit and guided tours tell the story of the transition from farm to factory, chronicle immigrant and labor history and trace industrial technology. The park includes textile mills, worker housing, 5.6 miles of canals, and 19th-century commercial buildings.

Minute Man National Historic Park

The events of April 19, 1775 were a turning point in the long struggle between Mother England and her American colonies. In a march of protest and petition turned independence and revolution, the fighting on April 19, 1775 would foreshadow the rebellious action of the American colonies to ultimately create a new nation, the United States of America.

New Bedford Whaling National Historic Park

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park commemorates the heritage of the world’s preeminent whaling port during the 19th century. A variety of cultural landscapes, historic buildings, museum collections, and archives preserve this history and collectively recount the stories of a remarkable era. Whaling, a leading 19th century enterprise, contributed to America’s economic and political vitality.

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Salem Maritime, the first National Historic Site in the National Park System, was established to preserve and interpret the maritime history of New England and the United States. The Site consists of about nine acres of land and twelve historic structures along the waterfront in Salem, Massachusetts, as well as a Visitor Center in downtown Salem. The Site documents the development of the Atlantic triangular trade during the colonial period, the role of privateering during the Revolutionary War, and the international maritime trade, especially with the Far East, which established American economic independence after the Revolution.

Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

This is the site of the first integrated ironworks in North America, 1646-1668. It includes the reconstructed blast furnace, forge, rolling mill, and a restored seventeenth century house.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site

Established on March 21, 1978 to preserve the history of the first National Armory, 1794 – 1968. Springfield Armory technology profoundly affected the lives of soldiers and civilians. Armory arms decided battle tactics. They were essential in all major conflicts in U.S. History. Armory inventions revolutionized the manufacture of consumer products like keys, shoes, baseball bats and furniture. Housed in the original Main Arsenal, the museum maintains one of the most extensive and unique firearms collections in the world. Special exhibits, events and film. Public and school programs. Springfield Armory National Historic Site encompasses approximately 55 acres and several buildings of the original armory complex.

Vermont

Famous for its country inns, covered bridges, and recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, and cross country skiing, Vermont has a reputation for being the state with a “mind of its own.” Visit Montpelier, the state’s capital, which has the oldest and best-kept state house in the union. See Lake Champlain from the shore or on a schooner cruise, or visit one of the area’s numerous historic sites. In Burlington, check out the summer jazz music festival. A trip to the Green Mountains area of Vermont is an absolute must. It is here that the ski resorts for which Vermont is so well known are located. Spend some time at Killington/Pico, Stowe, Rutland or one of the several other resorts.

Vermont Attractions

Smugglers’ Notch

Enjoy Smuggs summer, fall and winter family fun vacations in a beautiful mountain resort village in Vermont. Award winning children’s programs, skiing, snowboarding, hiking, tennis, biking, adventures, waterslides, pools, swimming. Smuggs offers family fun activities, dining, family and adult entertainment and more.

Vermont Teddy Bear Company

The Vermont Teddy Bear Company is the largest maker of handcrafted, American-made teddy bears! Embraced by the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain & the Adirondacks, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory colors the countryside in beautiful Shelburne. You can see how the adorable Teddy Bears are handcrafted, personalized, and are born!

Birds of Vermont Museum

Birds of Vermont Museum is a natural history museum based on wood carvings of the state’s birds. Robert N. Spear has spent 18 years creating the first 172 exhibits. The Museum’s displays, the surrounding bird sanctuary/nature preserve, and the bird viewing area offer an opportunity of a lifetime.

Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour

Learn how two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, turned a $5 correspondence course on ice cream making into a very successful business. Enjoy the sample of the day, and visit the scoop shop & gift shop.

Old Stone House Museum

The Old Stone House Museum is a monumental 30-room granite dormitory built in 1836 by Alexander Twilight. Today it houses the collection of the Orleans County Historical Society. Included in the exhibits are furniture, decorative arts, folk art, paintings, textiles, costumes, kitchenware, farm and trade tools.

Frog Hollow

Frog Hollow galleries exhibit a unique collection of fine traditional and contemporary Vermont craft work of over 230 juried Vermont artisans. Each gallery hosts special exhibitions year round.

Vermont Marble Exhibit

Vermont Marble Exhibit is the world’s largest marble exhibit. The facility displays include marble from Vermont and around the world. The Hall of Presidents displays statuary white marble relief carving of all past U.S. Presidents.

Rock of Ages

Rock of Ages offers a look at the 50-acre, 500-foot-deep active granite quarry. Watch as seemingly ant-like creatures cut granite far below you in the quarry depths. Their tour offers a bit of geology, cultural heritage, technology, and artistry – truly something of interest for every member of your family.

Montshire Museum

Montshire is a hands-on museum, located in Norwich, Vermont, with dozens of exciting exhibits relating to the natural and physical sciences, ecology, and technology.

Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

Climb aboard a 54-foot replica of Benedict Arnold’s gunboat Philadelphia II, Watch craftsmen continue traditional maritime skills of boat building and blacksmithing in 18th Century working shops, Uncover the rich legacy of shipwrecks in a Nautical Archaeology Center.

Vermont Institute of Natural Science

Located next to one of New England’s natural wonders, the Quechee Gorge, the VINS Nature Center includes a state-of-the art Raptor Exhibit, displaying one of North America’s finest collections of birds of prey. Visitors can now get eye to eye with Snowy Owls, Peregrine Falcons, Red-tailed Hawks, Bald Eagles and other birds of prey.

Parade Gallery

Parade Gallery offers a constantly evolving selection of original art, sculpture, ceramics, limited edition prints and reproductions

Santa’s Land

Visitors can experience the Magic of Christmas throughout the Year!

Olallie Daylily Gardens

Olallie Daylily Gardens offers six-acre fields, brim full with daylilies, and the farm also harbors other spectacular natural beauty. We have natural grass paths, which meander through the beautiful gardens. Also they maintain over four hundred high bush blueberries and blackberries that are delicious!

Green Mountain Railroad

Green Mountain Railroad features lots of great scenery, plenty of photo opportunities, always a relaxing ride to enjoy, vintage cars from the 30′s and 50′s, historical sites to visit and more! Fun for the whole family.

Bromley Adventure Zone

Bromley Adventure Zone is Vermont’s largest family fun park! The park features a 25 foot climbing wall, mini golf, DévalKarts, the best exciting rides and slides, America’s longest Alpine slide and much more!

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a 2,167-mile (3,488 km) footpath along the ridge crests and across the major valleys of the Appalachian Mountains from Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in north Georgia. The trail traverses Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is the only national park to focus on conservation history and the evolving nature of land stewardship in America. Opened in June 1998, Vermont’s first national park preserves and interprets the historic Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller property.  The Park is named for George Perkins Marsh, one of the nation’s first global environmental thinkers, who grew up on the property, and for Frederick Billings, an early conservationist who established a progressive dairy farm and professionally managed forest on the former Marsh farm. Frederick Billings’s granddaughter, Mary French Rockefeller, and her husband, conservationist Laurance S. Rockefeller, sustained Billings’s mindful practices in forestry and farming on the property over the latter half of the 20th century. In 1983, they established the Billings Farm & Museum to continue the farm’s working dairy and to interpret rural Vermont life and agricultural history.

Best Farms of Vermont

Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms features walking trails, children’s farmyard, nearly 400 acres of woodlands, dairy, and cheese making. Come explore and have a fun family time.

Sugarbush Farm

Sugarbush Farm is one of the few places in the state where you can get the real Vermont Cheddar. Also find other genuine Vermont farm products like pure maple syrup and pure Vermont honey. At the same time, it’s a place where people can soak up a bit of Vermont’s past, its rural life and the family farm to enjoy.

Billings Farm & Museum

Billings Farm & Museum is a living museum of Vermont’s rural past, as well as a working dairy farm. The farm dates back to 1871, when owner Frederick Billings, a lawyer, railroad entrepreneur, and philanthropist began importing cows from the Isle of Jersey. His farm prospered, and today, is still a working dairy, which operates with this nationally renowned farm life museum.

Dakin Farm

See how time-honored skills and century-old tradition combine with the most modern smokehouse facilities to produce ham, cheddar cheese, Vermont maple syrup, and other specialty foods known the world over for their unique flavor and wholesome goodness. Visitors can view our educational Vermont maple syrup movie, tour a maple syrup cannery, tour a state-of-the-art smokehouse and more

Morse Farm

Morse Farm specializes in presenting the maple process in their Sugarhouse and Woodshed theatre, live during sugaring and via humorous and educational video year round. See dioramas depicting Vermont farm life, folk art sculptures, maple trail and exciting and beautiful views.

Olallie Daylily Gardens

Olallie Daylily Gardens offers six-acre fields, brim full with daylilies, and the farm also harbors other spectacular natural beauty. We have natural grass paths, which meander through the beautiful gardens. Also they maintain over four hundred high bush blueberries and blackberries that are delicious!

Adams Family Farm

Adams Family Farm is family fun! Visitors can experience sleigh rides, afternoon tea and shepherding demonstration, hayrides, a quilt and fiber arts loft, livestock barn and more.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers spectacular views and a wide range of activities and adventures. New Hampshire supplies year-round appeal with its wide variety of attractions. Whatever your leisure choice, The Granite State has it all—hiking, biking, swimming, fishing and skiing to name but a few. The South and the Atlantic Coast have majestic beaches, including the well-known Hampton Beach Area. For great mountain biking and skiing visit the White Mountains. The famous Mount Washington offers impressive views and many ski resorts. The Lakes region is one of the best locations for boating, fishing and Lake Tours, including Lake Winnipesauke.

New Hampshire Attractions

Christmas Gallery & Tree Farm

Delight in new discoveries while you browse in the trim-a-tree gallery barn for treasures reminiscent of Christmas’ past. The farm features a wide selection of classic collectibles that have evolved over the centuries, but are still hand-crafted in the same age-old manner.

Seacoast Science Center

Open daily, the Center’s aquariums and live-animal exhibits interpret coastal habitats from tide pools to the seafloor. Interactive exhibits allow you to design your own fish for offshore aquaculture. Discover how the crew of a sunken submarine was rescued in 1939.  Located in Odiorne Point State Park.

Fuller Gardens

Formal, turn of the century estate garden that was once an ornament to Alvan T. Fuller’s summer home. Over two thousand roses of many varieties bloom all summer, with unusual and eye catching annual and perennial plantings, a host display garden, public conservatory and a Japanese garden are all within the sculpted hedges of this seaside gem.

Canterbury Shaker Village

Take a step back in time, experience 200 years of the Shaker way of life. An informative and fascinating guided tour will introduce the customs, inventions, furniture, architecture and values of this utopian society.

Canobie Lake Park

This state-of-the-art amusement park features over 45 rides including 4 coasters, the Log Flume water ride, the Timber Splash water coaster, a hand-painted antique carousel, authentic steam train, giant skywheel, over a dozen kiddie rides, a tantalizing variety of foods, fabulous prizes and merchandise to win, live entertainment, fireworks, and much more!

Charmingfare Farm

Visit the largest collection of Agricultural Animals & North American Wildlife in NH. A visit to this 180-acre farm is affordable, educational, and exciting for children and adults. The farm is home to over 200 animals. The barnyard offers traditional farm animals, hands-on petting area, pony rides, horse-drawn hayrides.

Great River Arts Institute

The Great River Arts Institute is an educational resource for the visual and literary arts, providing seminars, teaching workshops, symposia, retreats, and performance opportunities under the guidance of nationally recognized writers, artists, playwrights, critics and academicians.

Friendly Farm

Wander among and feed all sorts of friendly farm animals and their young in a natural, relaxed setting.

Fells Historic Site at the John Hay National Wildl

Lake Sunapee summer home of John M. Hay, statesman, author, and private secretary to President Lincoln. Nature trail, formal gardens, scenic lake view and guided weekend tours.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

Family fun resort with camping, swimming, beach, minigolf, and great entertainment. Planned & Supervised Daily Activities for All Ages from Tots to Teens to Adults.

Polar Caves Park

The Polar Caves offer spectacular views and a glacially formed network of caves. These caves, unlike the typical caves most people think of, were not formed by water but by glaciers over 50,000 years ago.

Lost River

Follow Lost River as it appears and disappears through a narrow steep-walled gorge, tumbled granite, crevasses, caverns, falls. Explore and learn about natural history, ecology, plant life. One hour, self-guided tour on walkways and bridges – enjoyable, comfortable for whole family. Geological display and nature garden with over 300 varieties of native flowers, ferns, shrubs.

Mount Washington Auto Road

Looking for a completely unique adventure while visiting the White Mountains? Take a ride on the Mt. Washington Auto Road, one of the most amazing drives you’ll ever experience! Drive yourself or take a 1.5 hour guided van tour.

Ruggles Mine

Explore this 191 year old, spectacular open pit mine: shining white walls, huge rooms, tunnels. Over 150 minerals are found here including beryl, mica, amethyst, rose and smokey quartz, garnet, etc. Mineral collecting permitted with admission tickets.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is a 2,167-mile (3,488 km) footpath along the ridge crests and across the major valleys of the Appalachian Mountains from Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in north Georgia. The trail traverses Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina and Georgia.

Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site

Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site consists of 150 acres including the home, gardens and studios of Augustus Saint-Gaudens (1848-1907), one of America’s foremost sculptors. This was his summer residence from 1885-1897, and his permanent home from 1900 until his death in 1907. There are two hiking trails that explore the park’s natural areas.

Best Museums in New Hampshire

American Independence Museum

Established in 1991, the American Independence Museum is a private, not-for-profit institution whose mission is to be the premier center and historic site in New Hampshire for the study, research, education and interpretation of the American Revolution and the role that one state, one town, and one family played in the founding of the new republic.

Strawbery Banke Museum

Experience how people lived throughout four centuries of New England history through restored furnished houses, exhibits, period gardens, and historic landscapes. Costumed role players interpret the living history of generations who settled in Portsmouth, NH.

The Children’s Metamorphosis Museum

You and your child can come visit, learn, play and discover. Experience lots of unique exhibits, activities and displays where kids can have fun while they learn about, experience and participate in the world around them.

Lawrence L. Lee Scouting Museum

Displays of the world’s finest collection of Scouting memorabilia and books. The museum also features Lord Baden-Powell’s collection of rare items.

Fort at No. 4 Living History Museum

This Historically correct re-creation of the actual Fortified Village helps educate people World Wide on the day to day living as well as Historical Events which took place at this location during this important period of American History.

Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum

Through exhibits and programs, the museum seeks to teach and inspire an understanding of the natural world and of resource conservation and land stewardship as developed by native people over thousands of years.

Hood Museum of Art

The Hood Museum of Art is one of the oldest and largest college museums in the country, housing an outstanding collection of works of art and artifacts and presenting a lively and diverse schedule of exhibitions and educational programs.

Enfield Shaker Museum

Here in 1793, the Shakers established their Chosen Vale, a village of quietly majestic buildings, gardens and fields. Today, the Shaker heritage is preserved at the Enfield Shaker Museum. Walking tours, exhibits, craft demonstrations, workshops, special programs and events, and extensive gardens bring new life to Shaker culture at the Museum.

Annalee Doll Museum

Trace the evolution of Annalee Thorndike and her dolls, from 1934 to the present, at the Annalee Doll Museum, complete with its exterior reproduction of her childhood home. You’ll be treated to a massive collection of dolls, from every decade of her career.

E. Stanley Wright Museum

The Wright Museum is a non-profit institution dedicated to teaching present and future generations about the conditions on and the contributions of the American Home Front during the Second World War (1939-1945). The Wright Museum engages in the collection, preservation, and exhibition of memorabilia, books, films, records, vehicles, and other relevant artifacts.

Remick Country Doctor Museum and Farm

Explore the family’s home with its antique period furnishings. Marvel at early medical history and see what a doctor’s office would have looked like in the days of the horse and buggy and Model T’s.

New Hampshire Boat Museum

Included in this exciting exhibit are boats ranging from 10′ to 26′, marine signs, poster work, outboard motors, lake artifacts, and memorabilia.

New England Ski Museum

The museum dedicated to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting elements from the broad spectrum of ski history for the purpose of research, education, and entertainment. The Museum houses the most extensive collection of historical ski equipment, clothing, film, photographs, literature, and artwork in the East.

Christie’s Maple Farm & Maple Museum

Christie’s Maple Farm & Museum is located in the shadows of the White Mountains. Visitors can see how they make their famous maple syrup. Free samples are available at the Taste Testing Bar. The farm also offers an Authentic sugarhouse, gift shop, picnic area, Motor Coach parking and spectacular views.

South Dakota

A perfect balance of scenic brilliance and a rich cultural heritage, South Dakota will call you back time and time again. The Black Hills, in the southwestern part of the state, is one of the treasures of the world. Its unique rock formations and mysterious caverns, demonstrated by such wonders as the wind caves and Crystal Cave Park are unprecedented. South Dakota’s Custer State Park is filled with thousands of roaming bison and wild animals; the Badlands are another geological marvel, with ridges and cliffs covered in a blanket of white sediment. Former U.S. presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln greet visitors from the side of Mount Rushmore in Keystone. The Southeast part of South Dakota is home to many lakes and three major rivers. It is a haven for fisherman, hunters, golfers and skiers alike. Mitchell is home to the world’s only Corn Palace, and De Smet preserves the heritage of Laura Ingalls Wilder of the Little House stories. Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s most populated city and boasts many state parks and recreational areas.

Attractions of South Dakota

Four Mile Old West Town

Four Mile Old West Town offers hayride tours which allow visitors to travel through the town site while the guide narrates the way of life your ancestors lived, from the mid 1800’s into the early 1900’s, during the time the when the Black Hills were settled. Walking self-guided tours are also available.

1880 Train/Black Hills Central Railroad

The 1880 TRAIN is beyond imagination. Located near Mt. Rushmore National Monument and Crazy Horse Memorial, the locomotive offers a western experience like no other. Feel the power. Hear the bellow of the engine and the whine of the whistle as it winds its way through the scenic hills between Hill City and Keystone and back again.

Reptile Gardens

Exhibiting the World’s Largest Reptile Collection living among rare and beautiful minerals, fossils, and sculptures. The Sky Dome features the nation’s first walk-through jungle filled with lizards, crocodiles, harmless snakes, parrots, and hundreds of stunning orchids and tropical plants.

Beautiful Rushmore Cave

Beautiful Rushmore Cave is the area’s largest stalactite cave and the closest cave to Mt. Rushmore National Memorial. The one hour tour winds through a series of rooms and passages, the most stunning of which is the BIG ROOM. This legendary room contains thousands of stalactites, stalagmites, ribbons, helectites, columns and other breathtaking cave formations.

SD Discovery Center & Aquarium

The South Dakota Discovery Center provides interactive exhibits and hands-on science activities that are fun and educational.’

Dacotah Prairie Museum

The Dacotah Prairie Museum of Aberdeen, South Dakota mounts both long and short-term exhibits concerning the prairie; early settlers, their lives and lifestyles; the railroad and its influence on settlement; and Native American life.

Redlin Art Center

This remarkable building and the paintings within were donated to the city of Watertown as a gift from world famous artist, Terry Redlin.

W. H. Over State Museum

Preserving and interpreting the heritage of South Dakota and its people is the Museum’s mission. Founded in 1883, the Museum began as a study collection in the natural sciences at what is now the University of South Dakota . This is the state’s largest collection of natural and cultural history.

Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science

The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science is the region’s newest and largest cultural and entertainment center. The Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science includes the Husby Performing Arts Center, the Kirby Science Discovery Center and its Wells Fargo CineDome Theater, the Visual Arts Center, the Discovery Store and Leonardo’s Café.

State Agricultural Heritage Museum

The South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum is a great place to visit and enjoy the history of the Dakota prairie. The museum is a powerful resource for all aspects of the rich history that South Dakota has proudly carried for many generations.

Rushmore Tramway

Ride up to a beautiful alpine landscape: get off on top to see impressive rock formations, waterfalls, flowers, and panoramic views. Have a cold drink or a bite to eat as you take in the unique view of Mt. Rushmore from this scenic mountain top setting. Breathe in the fragrance of the pines as you take a relaxing stroll through this beautiful Black Hills mountain-garden setting.

Sitting Bull Crystal Caverns

Experience a world unlike any other. Knowledgeable and friendly guides lead you through subterranean, crystalline passages in the Paha Sapa limestone. Marvel at the world’s most extensive display of dog-tooth spar crystal. Peer into the still, clear water of Diamond Lake. Visit the famous French Chandelier room, Crystal Palace, and Rainbow Arch.

Best Parks of South Dakota

Thunder Road Family Fun Park

If speed is your ticket, race right over to the most dynamic go-kart tracks in the Dakotas. The tracks feature banked corners, hairpin turns, and endless racing fun for all members of your family. Adventure golf and bumper boats are also available.

Badlands National Park

Located in southwestern South Dakota, Badlands National Park consists of acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires blended with the largest, protected mixed grass prairie in the United States. The Badlands Wilderness Area covers 64,000 acres and is the site of the reintroduction of the black-footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America. The Stronghold Unit is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe and includes sites of 1890s Ghost Dances.

Jewel Cave National Monument

With more than 122 miles surveyed, Jewel Cave is recognized as the third longest cave in the world. Airflow within its passages indicates a vast area yet to be explored. Cave tours provide opportunities for viewing this pristine cave system and its wide variety of speleothems including stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, frostwork, flowstone, boxwork and hydromagnesite balloons. The cave is an important hibernaculum for several species of bats.

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

This site celebrates the heroic expedition of the Corps of Discovery, led by Captain Meriwether Lewis and Captain William Clark. Thirty three people traveled with them into unknown territory, starting near what is now known as Wood River, Illinois in 1804, reaching the Pacific Ocean in 1805 and returning in 1806.

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site (NHS) is one of our newest additions to the National Park System, established on December 2, 1999. Located in western South Dakota, Minuteman Missile is not yet open to the public; however, the National Park Service is already at work developing educational materials to help the public better understand the future plans for the Site and to gather information and perspectives from an international audience on the complex story of the Cold War. The Site consists of a Launch Control Center (an above ground facility attached to a subterranean capsule which contained two Air Force officers, awaiting the command to launch nuclear warfare) and a Launch Facility, also known as a missile silo. Although the tangible resource relates directly to the Minuteman Missile program, the story of the site will include the larger issues of the Cold War era.

Missouri National Recreation Area

Two stretches of the Missouri River are protected here. The portion set aside in 1978 from Gavins Point Dam near Yankton, South Dakota, to Ponca, Nebraska, still exhibits the river’s dynamic character in its islands, bars and chutes. The portion set aside in 1991 from Ft. Randall Dam near Pickstown, South Dakota, to Niobrara, Nebraska, represents the natural landscape of the Missouri River, reminiscent of pre-settlement days. Included are the lower 20 miles of the Niobrara River, and the lower eight miles of Verdigre Creek. In both segments native flood plain forest, tall and mixed grass prairie, and the river, provide habitat for several endangered and threatened bird and fish species.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore memorializes the birth, growth, preservation and development of the United States of America. Between 1927 and 1941, Gutzon Borglum and 400 workers sculpted the 60-foot busts of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln to represent the first 150 years of American history. Visitors to the memorial come primarily to view the granite sculpture itself, but also of interest is the Sculptor’s Studio built under the direction of the artist, Gutzon Borglum, in 1939. Unique plaster models and tools related to the sculpting process are displayed there.

Wind Cave National Park

One of the world’s longest and most complex caves and 28,295 acres of mixed-grass prairie, ponderosa pine forest, and associated wildlife are the main features of the park. The cave is well known for its outstanding display of box work, an unusual cave formation composed of thin calcite fins resembling honeycombs. The park’s mixed grass prairie is one of the few remaining and is home to native wildlife such as bison, elk, pronghorn, mule deer.

Iowa

Situated at the crossroads of the U.S. Interstate system, Iowa has become a permanent home to pioneers and immigrants from various European countries. The capital city, Des Moines, home to 191,000 people, is known for Living History Farms and the legendary Iowa State Fair. Des Moines is filled with family-centered activities. The beautifully landscaped zoological park, Blank Park Zoo, the Historical Building and the Science Center are all ideal for family activities. The impressive collection at the Des Moines Art Center is particularly worth a visit. Cedar Rapids, the second largest city in the state, is a city of rich history and diverse culture. You can imagine traveling to Central Europe by visiting Czech Village. Iowa features many fine museums. For those who love outdoors and nature, Indian Creek Nature Center presents 210 acres of restored savannas, prairies and woodlands. Cedar Rapids also features numerous campgrounds and hiking trails. Known for its scenic landscape and historic trails situated throughout the state. The western part of the state features Old O’Brien Glacial Trail and Western Skies Scenic Byway, while the East boasts Woodlands Scenic Byway, Drift less Area Scenic Byway, and River Bluffs Scenic Byway—all are a haven for wildlife and provide numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.

Attractions of Iowa

The Lakes Art Center

The Lakes Art Center Offers traveling exhibitions that showcase local, regional, and national artists. It also features a foreign and classic film series, a gift shop, sculpture gardens and performing arts.

Ice Cream Capital of the World Visitor Center

Le Mars, Iowa, located in Northwestern Iowa, has been home to Wells’ Dairy since 1913. The Wells family still resides in Le Mars, along with nearly 10,000 other citizens who are proud to live, work and play in a community that has prospered since 1869. Visitors can view the past, present and future of dairy production with a tour through a family-friendly production exhibit.

Donna Reed Center for the Performing Arts

A non-profit organization to memorialize Donna Reed’s accomplishments and perpetuate her deep commitments to youth, education, and the performing arts. Housed in the restored 1914 Germania Opera House, the Center offers both film and theatrical productions, a turn-of-the-century soda fountain, gift shop, photos as well as personal and movie memorabilia from Donna Reed’s life.

EOWATA

EOWATA offers the ideal setting to reduce stress, gain knowledge and wisdom, and marvel at the wonder and majesty of all creation. The magnificent grounds offer Oriental gardens, numerous fountains, an eighty-foot diameter, brick patio, authentic Indian village, rose gardens and other beautiful floral displays, lush nature trails, a wildlife reserve and more.

Country Relics Village

A scaled down version of an early 1900s village, Country Relics Village is tastefully detailed with authentic artifacts – children’s furnishings, salesman’s samples, and toys. In addition to the ‘little’ village, the complex includes the original Stanhope Chicago Northwestern Depot and a replica of the Hove and Mathre McCormick Machines dealership.

Des Moines Playhouse

The Des Moines Playhouse was founded in 1919 by members of the Iowa Press and Authors Club. The Playhouse’s mission is to partner with volunteers to create and deliver extraordinary theatre and education programs for communities in central Iowa through high-quality entertainment with special emphasis on issues of social significance.

The Birthplace of John Wayne

Step back in time and picture the life of a young Midwestern boy and his family near the turn of the century. This modest four-room home has been restored to reflect its appearance in 1907, the year of the Duke’s birth.

Bluedorn Science Imaginarium

The Bluedorn Science Imaginarium provides a fun way for you to learn and experiment with physics, light, sound and momentum. Hands-on exhibits provide a playground for your imagination.

Crystal Lake Cave

You are invited to visit and witness the ongoing miracle that created this natural masterpiece of underground panorama. Competent & friendly tour guides will lead you through this wondrous cave on an exciting half hour to 45 minute adventure.

Duffy’s Collectible Cars

Filled with 30′s-40′s-50′s-60′s and 70′s American made hardtops and convertibles. This dealership lets you step back in time with lots of Classic Car memorabilia and nearly 100 fully restored automobiles. All cars are for sale.

Wildthings Flower Farm and Learning Center

Over 400 varieties of pesticide free specialty flowers and herbs are grown. Facilities include a gift shop, a Summer House bordering and gardens. The Learning Center provides garden lovers with botanical crafts, seasonal garden projects, recipes from the garden, a Q & A’s section for mid-west gardeners and more.

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Prehistoric mounds are common from the plains of the Midwest to the Atlantic seaboard, but only in this general area were they constructed in an effigy outline of mammals, birds, or reptiles. The Monument contains 1,481 acres with 191 mounds of which 29 are effigies. The others are conical, linear and compound. Eastern Woodland Indians built these mounds from about 500 BC to 1300 AD. Natural features in the monument include forests, tall grass prairies, wetlands and rivers.

Great Museums of Iowa

Mid America Air Museum

The museum features an exciting collection of military, commercial and general aviation artifacts and memorabilia starting with the Wright Flyer to the Space Shuttle. View military, general aviation and homebuilt static displayed aircraft. The museum also offers hands-on aero-science displays.

Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum

The Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum is located next to beautiful West Okoboji Lake, a natural glacial lake created by the Wisconsin glacier some 12,000 years ago. The Maritime Museum and excursion boat the Okoboji Queen II are located adjacent to the Arnolds Park Amusement Park in Arnolds Park, Iowa.

The Danish Immigrant Museum

The Museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Danish immigrant’s experience across North America — from Perth Amboy, New Jersey, to Solvang, California, and from Danevang, Texas, to Dalum, Alberta. The traditions carried on by later generations of Danish Americans will be presented in programs and special events.

Danish Windmill Museum and Welcome Center

Come take a guided tour of the authentic windmill from Denmark built in 1848 and transported to Elk Horn in 1975. The mill grinds wheat and rye by wind power. See a 10-minute video, and tour the 60-foot mill, gears and grinding stones.

Iowa Aviation Museum

The Museum celebrates Iowa’s remarkable aviation heritage…from the state’s first recorded flight in 1910 to native sons and daughters exploring the universe. 11 civil aircraft are on display, including some rare examples of early flying machines from the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s. Memorabilia and photographs tell the story of how aviation grew in Iowa.

Blanden Memorial Art Museum

The Museum is a center of art and culture, not only for Fort Dodge, but for a large area of north central Iowa. Free admission gives access to items from the world-class permanent collection and current exhibitions by local as well as internationally renowned artists. A full range of classes, receptions, concerts, lectures and special events for all ages are available.

International Wrestling Institute and Museum

The mission of the International Wrestling Institute and Museum is to preserve, maintain and promote the long and illustrious heritage of mankind’s oldest sport in a manner which will benefit the sport, educate and entertain the public, and financially support the Institute and its activities.

Nelson Pioneer Farm & Museum

Founded in 1844, the Nelson homestead is one of the premier historic attractions in Mahaska County. The property, maintained by the Mahaska County Historical Society, Inc., a non-profit, educational institution, now features historic buildings from all over Mahaska County, providing visitors a glimpse of what life was like for Iowans in 19th century America.

Grout Museum of History and Science

Throughout its more than 40-year history, the Grout Museum of History and Science, widely acknowledged as one of the cornerstones of culture in Northeast Iowa, has worked to fulfill its mission to provide a window on our world. The Museum specializes in area history and natural history. The Museum also features a 50-seat planetarium and hands-on Discovery Zone.

Family Museum of Arts and Science

Hands-on museum with interactive exhibits for children and families. Touch a tornado; make a cloud ring; hop through a rabbit hole. Explore the workings of the human heart. For active kids of all ages, the outdoor ‘Kingdom for Kids’ Playground has things to climb, slide down, swing across, go up and down and slither around.

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is the foremost institution in the United States that preserves and interprets Czech and Slovak history and culture through its artifact and library collections, exhibits, and public programs.

Midwest Old Threshers Heritage Museums

The Heritage Museums house scores of steam traction and stationary engines, antique tractors, agricultural implements and tools. They also feature a farm house, barn and mill, and exhibits on the use of water and electricity. An exhibit on farm women past and present is also highlighted.

Minnesota

Carved by glaciers centuries ago, Minnesota is now known as the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes. The Eastlake’s area borders Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes and the largest body of freshwater in the world. The Westlake’s area is home to Bemidji, an old logging center with a historic downtown and a place in its heritage for the legendary lumberjack Paul Bunyan. The Twin Cities—Minneapolis and St. Paul, the state capital—are vibrant and alive with the cultural arts and a heavy emphasis on professional sports. The large metro area, separated by the Mississippi River, has more theatres, dance companies, and concert venues per person than anywhere in the U.S., excluding New York City. America’s largest shopping center, the Mall of America, is located in Bloomington, and features an amusement park, 520 shops, and 14 theatres. The south part of the Minnesota is mainly farmland on the edge of the Great Plains. And, the world famous Mayo Clinic is located in Rochester.

Minnesota Tourist Attractions

Minnesota State Capitol

See the legislature in action in the historic House and Senate chambers. Original furnishings and vivid colors of the restored Senate, House, Supreme Court and Rathskeller cafe add to your experience of this working masterpiece by acclaimed architect Cass Gilbert.

Mall of America

Mall of America is the nation’s largest retail and entertainment complex, located in Bloomington, Minnesota. Mall of America is the country’s most visited destination, attracting more than 42.5 million people each year.

Minnesota Zoo

The Minnesota Zoo is situated on 500 acres in Dakota County. The zoo features about 2,300 animals, with 105 animals representing 15 species on the United States Endangered Species list.

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

Chanhassen is the nation’s largest professional dinner theatre, the largest restaurant in the state of Minnesota, and 13th largest in the nation. Critics from across the U.S. have hailed Chanhassen as ‘one of the best dinner theatres in the country!’

Wild Mountain Waterpark

The Wild Mountain Water Park, Alpine Slides & Go-Karts are located just 7 miles north of Taylors Falls, MN. A great park for the whole family! There are activities that will get you wet, and some that will allow you to stay dry!

Minnesota Orchestra

The 95-member Minnesota Orchestra performs more than 200 concerts each year. The Orchestra reaches annual audiences of over 400,000, as well as a vast broadcast public in well over 100 cities, and more than 50,000 students through its Young People’s Concerts and school projects. With numerous commissions in its history, the Orchestra nourishes a strong commitment to contemporary music.

Hockey Hall of Fame

Since 1973, 103 great American hockey people with outstanding hockey achievements from all of the competitive levels of the game have been enshrined. Visitors experience the thrilling game action and inspiring achievements of players, coaches, builders and administrators through authentic, informative and entertaining displays and memorabilia.

Duluth Entertainment Convention Center

The Duluth Entertainment Convention Centre restored steamer S.S. William A. Irvin, former flagship of U.S. Steel’s Great Lakes Fleet, Duluth OMNIMAX, Ship of Ghouls. The center is also home to a variety of concerts, movies, ballet, symphony, broadway shows and more.

Great Lakes Aquarium

Dive into the Great Lakes Aquarium, where exploring Lake Superior – and all the freshwater wonders of the world – is fun! The 62,000-square-foot aquarium showcases 70 species of fish, plus birds, reptiles, amphibians and river otters in five habitat exhibits around Lake Superior and 19 satellite tanks.

Commonweal Theatre Company

The Commonweal Theatre Company is a non-profit, professional theatre company dedicated to delighting and challenging the audiences of their region. Run by a collective of theatre artists, they are committed to the values of collaboration, community, diversity, learning and artistic integrity, and to making live theatre accessible to as many as possible.

Jeffers Petroglyphs

Amid the prairie grasses are islands of uncovered rock, where American Indians left carvings —petroglyphs— humans, deer, elk, buffalo, turtles, thunderbirds, atlatls and arrows. They tell a story that spans 5,000 years.

Grand Portage National Monument

Located on the magnificent shore and boreal forest of Lake Superior in northeastern Minnesota, Grand Portage National Monument preserves a vital headquarters of 18th, 19th and 20th century fur trade activity and Ojibwe heritage. The monument is enclosed within Grand Portage Indian Reservation, for centuries home to Ojibwe Indian families.

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is a narrow corridor of land on either side of the Mississippi River extending from Dayton, MN on the north boundary through the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and downstream to Hastings, MN.

Minnesota Historic Attractions

Historic Murphy’s Landing

Murphy’s Landing is a living history village of the 1800s. More than forty period buildings that were once in danger of being destroyed have been moved to the Landing’s 88 acre site for their preservation and restoration, and the enjoyment and education of more than 40,000 visitors’s a year.

Sibley House Historic Site

Tour the 1836 Sibley house, home to Henry Hastings Sibley, a man whose life and career were at the center of Minnesota’s territorial and early statehood era. Unravel stories of the fur trade, uncover memories of changes to the structures, and browse through furnished mid-19th century interiors and exhibits.

Minnesota History Center

At the History Center’s museum, enjoy lively exhibits that feature such varied objects as an authentic birch bark canoe, a printing press from the early 1800s, Minnesota Twins’ World Series memorabilia, Burma Shave signs, a recreated barbershop and a windmill straight off the farm.

Bell Museum of Natural History

The Bell Museum’s exhibits encourage exploration and convey the wonder of nature, the excitement of science, and the importance of research and conservation of the natural world.

Stearns History Museum

Two floors of exhibits provide the visitor with an entertaining learning experience. Discover the legend of controversial auto maker Sam Pandolfo and see a 1919 Pan Automobile. Peruse an 1850 natural environment and examine Ojibwe and Dakota summer lodges. Enter a dairy barn and see milking as it was done 100 years ago.

Landmark Center

Landmark Center was built in 1902 and originally served as the Federal Court House and Post Office for the Upper Midwest. Today, Landmark Center serves as a cultural center for music, dance, theater, exhibitions, public forums, and special events.

Heritage Hjemkomst Interpretive Center

See how one man’s dream became a reality. Photographs, recordings and an award-winning documentary chronicle the construction of the 76-foot, hand-built Viking ship Hjemkomst, and its incredible 6,000-mile voyage across the Atlantic in 1982. The ship is on display at the Center, along with other national traveling exhibits.

Saint Louis County Heritage and Arts Center

You haven’t seen Duluth until you’ve explored the Saint Louis County Heritage and Arts Center, better know as the Depot. This former Union Railroad Depot was built in 1892. The historic part of the building houses exhibits by four different museums and its theater wing functions as a studio and administrative home to five performing arts organizations.

Forest History Center

Visit a recreated turn-of-the-century logging camp where you’ll find the camp blacksmith, saw filer, clerk, cook and lumberjacks. Then, board the moored river ‘wanigan,’ a floating cook shack used when the logs and men headed downstream to the mills.

Lower Sioux Agency Historic Site

Explore Dakota life before the reservation era and discover how the reservation system changed traditional Dakota ways of living. Learn about the Agency’s operation and discover how government employees and missionaries sought to change traditional Dakota ways. Look for underlying causes of the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 in the new interpretive center exhibit.

American Swedish Institute

The American Swedish Institute, founded in 1929 by Swan J. Turnblad, is a historic house/museum offering a variety of programs designed to celebrate Swedish culture. The Turnblad mansion, which houses the Institute, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the only castle in the Twin Cities.

Glensheen Estate

Glensheen is the 7.6 acre estate built between 1905-08 by Chester A. Congdon. Glensheen is historically important because of its original condition. A significant part of Duluth’s history has been preserved at Glensheen and is available for you to experience.

Michigan

Michigan provides visitors with many incredible sights, including superb lakes, skylines and ski resorts. Greater Detroit is best known for being a leader in the automobile industry and was the home of Henry Ford. The Upper Peninsula is a great location to visit with much of interest for visitors, such as Saulte Ste. Marie which features a great location on Lake Superior. Take pleasure in Michigan southeast area’s vast natural areas and understand these places at the Exhibit of Natural History in the academic center of Ann Arbor. In Grand Rapidsthe Botanical Gardens and Sculpture Park is worth a stop. Travel to the North Mainland to participate in the many activities offered, such as the community of Traverse with the Dennos Museum Center which focuses on the performing arts, and the famous resort of Mackinaw City.

Michigan Attractions

Mackinac Island Butterfly House

At the Butterfly House you can walk through our garden while 500 – 700 butterflies from all over the world are in flight.

Soo Locks Boat Tours

The Soo Locks have been referred to as one of the great wonders of the world and it is still the largest waterway traffic system on earth. Your boat will travel along the international shoreline of the lower harbor letting you experience all the sights, sounds, and excitement of Michigan’s oldest city, Sault Ste Marie.

Fort Wilkins Historic Complex

Today, Fort Wilkins is a well-preserved example of mid-19th century army life on the northern frontier. Attractions include 19 restored buildings, costumed interpreters, copper mining sites, evening slide programs, camping and picnicking.

Keweenaw Peninsula

Visit the underwater preserve, paddle down the water trail, or ski and snowmobile in the winter.

Michael and Barbara Dennos Museum Center

A regional hub for arts and culture, this dramatic building features three rotating exhibition galleries, a sculpture court, a “”hands-on”" Discovery Gallery, a gallery of Inuit art from the museum’s permanent collection as well as the 367-seat Milliken Auditorium, a 32-seat video theater, a community room and a museum store.

Mackinaw Trolley Company

Tour with the Mackinaw Trolley- History Tour over the Bridge, Mackinaw Trolley Trail Tour, Lighthouses,Ships & Shipwreck Tour & Fall Color Tour.

Grand Traverse Lighthouse

Tour the restored lighthouse resembling a keeper’s home of the 1920′s and 30′s. Exhibits on area lighthouses, foghorns, shipwrecks and local history are located in the Lighthouse and Fog Signal Building. The restored air diaphone foghorn is demonstrated throughout the year, and visitors can climb the tower for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan.

Jesse Besser Museum

As the only accredited museum in the region, it offers changing exhibits, lectures, workshops and classes in art, history and science. Jesse Besser Museum’s galleries feature artworks by painters, photographers, potters and other artists drawn from across the area, state and country.

Alcona Park

The 1100 acre park has three miles of shoreline on each side of this trophy fish producing river. The park is surrounded by the Huron National Forest. The river provides quality fishing of Walleye, Pike, Perch, Bass and Trout. Canoeing, boating, swimming, fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing are all popular activities for visitors.

Outdoor Discovery Center

The Outdoor Discovery Center is a non-profit outdoor education center located on a 110-acre preserve south of Holland, Michigan in Allegan County. The site is home to several major ecosystems, walking trails, wild and captive animals and interpretive educational displays.

Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland

The world’s largest Christmas store is the size of 4 football fields. It’s a shopper’s dream…especially for Christmas lovers! There are over 50,000 gifts and trims from around the world. Christmas is celebrated all year at Bronner’s.

Public Museum of Grand Rapids

The Public Museum of Grand Rapids is a nonprofit educational institution whose mission is to collect, preserve, and present the natural, cultural, and social history of the region. Also included are the Van Andel Museum Center, Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, Voigt House Victorian Museum, and the Blandford Nature Center.

Jollay Orchards

Jollay Orchards offers a unique entertainment experience – blending a working Orchard with family activities. Activities include: Animal Farm, Farm Market, Greenhouse, Orchard Trails, Play Ground and Picnic Area.

Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village

Greenfield Village is the most remarkable of Henry Ford’s restoration projects. The collections at the Henry Ford Museum has its roots in Henry Ford’s antique collecting expeditions in the early 1920′s, representing American life from colonial to modern times. The village has seven restored mills, as well as several buildings important in Henry Ford’s life, including Henry Ford’s birthplace.

The Detroit Institute of Arts

Sixth largest fine arts museum in the country with holdings of over 60,000 works. Tour any one of the one hundred galleries devoted to the best in painting, sculpting, graphic and decorative arts.

National Parks of Michigan

Isle Royale National Park

Wolves and moose, the wild North Woods forest, ever changing weather and a cool climate, and the crystal clear waters and rugged shoreline of Lake Superior characterize Isle Royale National Park. This wilderness archipelago is 45 miles long and nine miles wide at it’s widest point. The park encompasses a total area of 850 square miles including submerged lands which extends four and a half miles out into Lake Superior.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses a 60 km (35 mi.) stretch of Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline, as well as North and South Manitou Islands. The park was established primarily for its outstanding natural features, including forests, beaches, dune formations, and ancient glacial phenomena. The Lakeshore also contains many cultural features including a 1871 lighthouse, three former Life-Saving Service/Coast Guard Stations and an extensive rural historic farm district.

Father Marquette National Memorial

Father Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary, established Michigan’s earliest European settlements at Sault Ste. Marie and St. Ignace in 1668 and 1671. He lived among the Great Lakes Indians from 1666 to his death in 1675. During these nine years, Father Marquette mastered several native languages and helped Louis Jolliet map the Mississippi River.

Isle Royale National Park

Wolves and moose, the wild North Woods forest, everchanging weather and a cool climate, and the crystal clear waters and rugged shoreline of Lake Superior characterize Isle Royale National Park. This wilderness archipelago is 45 miles long and nine miles wide at it’s widest point. The park encompasses a total area of 850 square miles including submerged lands which extends four and a half miles out into Lake Superior.

Keweenaw National Historic Park

Keweenaw National Historical Park was established to commemorate the rich history of copper mining on the Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan; the only place in the world where commercially abundant quantities of elemental copper occurred. It has the oldest metal mining heritage in the western hemisphere — one which dates back 7,000 years. It was the site of America’s first large scale hard-rock industrial mining operations.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Multicolored sandstone cliffs, beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, inland lakes, wildlife and the forest of Lake Superior shoreline beckon visitors to explore the park, which at its widest point is only five miles and hugs the Superior shoreline for more than 40 miles.

North Country National Scenic Trail

The North Country National Scenic Trail links scenic, natural, historic, and cultural areas in seven northern states. The approximately four thousand mile long trail incudes a variety of hikes from easy walking to challenging treks. When completed, through the efforts of many people, the trail will become the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States.

Wisconsin

America’s Dairyland, as Wisconsin is suitably nicknamed, is particularly famous for two things: cheese and beer. The rolling plains filled with cattle are unquestionably responsible for earning the state its reputation and status as a leader in dairy production. Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s largest city, legendary for the tempting scent of malt seeping from its many breweries. Nearly one million people gather each year along the banks of Lake Michigan for Summer fest—a live music and entertainment festival. The Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison, a stunning example of Roman Renaissance architecture, stands between Lake Mendota to the west and Lake Monona to the east. Green Bay is home to the NFL’s oldest team, the Green Bay Packers. A trip to this city during football season would not be complete without taking in a game at Lambeau Field, or visiting the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. Although the wilderness of North Wisconsinis vast and sparsely populated (the largest city is Eau Claire), it does offer plenty of recreation for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward.

Wisconsin Attractions

White Pines Family Fun Center

Waterfalls, fountains and the natural setting create a beautiful atmosphere for this family fun center! Enjoy 18 holes of mini golf, go-karts, video game arcade and snack shop.

American Folklore Theatre

The mission of the American Folklore Theatre is to develop and present professional dramatic productions of a cultural and/or educational nature which will further the knowledge and appreciation of the heritage of the United States through creation, development, publication, and presentation in live or recorded form, of dramatic and musical works of art.

Big Top Chautauqua

Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua (LSBTC) is a year round non profit performing arts organization. LSBTC operates an intimate 780 seat capacity, all professional tent theater, producing and presenting a seventy-plus night summer season of concerts, plays, lectures, and original, illuminated historical musicals.

International Snowmobile Hall of Fame

The International Snowmobile Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich and exciting history of snowmobiling at both the recreational and competitive levels through the operation of a museum, hall of fame and library for the sport.

The Hideout

Closed and tightly guarded by imported gangland guns since it was carved from the stately pine and hardwood forest in the early 1920′s, this scenic north woods retreat of Chicago’s most notorious gangster of the Roaring 1920′s now reveals its secrets to the public.

National Fresh Water Fishing Hall Of Fame

The world’s largest fishing museum includes a 5-story building shaped like a musky, hundreds of mounted trophy fish, a research library, 30,000 sq. feet of displays of antique and classic fishing artifacts, 500 outboards, 800 reels, 6,000 lures, hundreds of rods and varied fishing accessories. Video fishing theater. Boat and motor display building and six acres of landscaped grounds.

Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame

Journey to the humble beginnings of this fan-owned franchise. Follow the Packers to their first championships; read the biographies of some of the inductees; view the exhibits; have fun with football trivia.

Oshkosh Public Museum

The museum tells the rich story of exploration, settlement, and development of the Lake Winnebago Region in Wisconsin. It is the story of Native Americans; French explorers, missionaries, and fur traders; immigrants from far-away places including Germany, Poland, Russia, and Scandinavia; pioneers and investors; builders and dreamers; farmers, shopkeepers, and lumber barons.

Little Norway

Nestled in a beautiful valley twenty miles west of Madison, hidden in the foothills of Blue Mounds WI. is a charming and unique outdoor museum known as Little Norway. It has another, more romantic name which suggests more vividly the sense of magic that pervades this lovely valley: Nissedahle, or Valley of the Elves.

Kettle Moraine Steam Train

Kettle Moraine Steam Train offers an eight mile nostalgic ride on a turn of the century steam train.

Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center

Norskedalen, a nature and heritage center located three miles north of Coon Valley, offers six miles of nature trails; the Helga Gundersen arboretum; and seasonal guided tours of the restored Bekkum pioneer log homestead. Nearby, the Thrune Visitors’ Center houses heritage and nature museums, a gift shop, library and meeting facilities.

Museum of Norman Rockwell Art

America’s most beloved illustrator is alive in Reedsburg at the world’s largest collection of its kind. Open to the public. Enjoy almost 4000 examples of Rockwell’s work displayed in original magazine covers, calendars and commercial art.

Woodland Dunes Nature Center

Woodland Dunes is an oasis of marshland, swamps, sandy fields and meadows and wooded ridges between Manitowoc and Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Enjoy the sight of waxy, yellow buttercups, hear the clear,whistled notes of an oriole, feel the swish of the wind through the hemlocks or feel the soft breast feathers of a bluebird at the bird banding station.

Best Parks of Wisconsin

Marion Amazement Park

A permanent 30,000 square foot series of walkways, towers and platforms that twist through the maze. Built of lumber and walkways, and walkways are made of pea gravel. There are only 5 others like it in US. maze changes every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month.

Forts Folle Avoine Historic Park

Folle Avoine Historical Park brings to life the rich heritage of the fur trade area in the Folle Avoine (“”Wild Rice”") region of northwestern Wisconsin. Costumed interpreters interact with modern-day visitors in an Ojibwe village and four traders’ cabins, historic reconstruction’s of 1802-1804 winter of the North West and XY Fur Trade Companies.

Peck’s Wildwood Wildlife Park

Peck’s Wildwood is home to over 500 animals and birds including; wolf, black bear, elk, bobcat, buffalo, deer, mountain lion, wallaby, coatimundi, emu, ring-tailed lemur, African spurred tortoise, eagle, birds of the world, and much, much more!

Ellwood H. May Environmental Park

This unique, diverse park offer 120 acres of forests, wetlands and prairie with ponds, river and an abundance of wildlife. Miles of free trails are perfect for birding, hiking and skiing with some being handicap accessible. The Ecology Center, Prairie Overlook and Environmental Lab allow for dozens of natural history program offerings to school and tour groups of all ages.

Rainbow Falls Family Fun Park

Rainbow Falls Family Fun Park is Wisconsin’s best kept secret! Attractions include water slides, wave pool, River of Rainbows, kiddie pool, bumper boats and more.

Apostle Island National Lakeshore

Wisconsin’s northernmost landscape juts out into Lake Superior as the scenic archipelago known as the Apostle Islands. The national lakeshore includes 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland Lake Superior shoreline, featuring pristine stretches of sand beach, spectacular sea caves, remnant old-growth forests, resident bald eagles and black bears, and the largest collection of lighthouses anywhere in the National Park System.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail travels through the edges of the glacier that passed into Wisconsin.

Saint Croix National Scenic River

The St. Croix National Scenic River way consists of the Namekagon and St. Croix Rivers providing 252 miles of recreational opportunities.  The River way is a unique area with a diversity of habitat, which provides many opportunities for viewing wildlife. A variety of recreational activities can be enjoyed in this picturesque setting. The upper stretches are ideal for canoeists, the rivers are shallow and narrow with some rapids. The lower stretches broaden and widen and can be used by boats.

Riverview Park & Waterworld

Situated on more than 35 acres, Riverview Park & Waterworld offers action-packed entertainment, including the largest U-Drive’Em and Amusement Park, combined with Grand Prix racing, go carts and Mini-Indy cars, 5 Rapids Inner Tube Ride, waterslides, a wave pool and numerous other pools exclusively for children’s activities! The park also features amusements rides.

Mitchell Park Conservatory (Domes)

Experience a desert oasis, a tropical jungle and special floral gardens . . . all in one afternoon! Come to the deserts of Africa, Madagascar, South America and North America in the Arid Dome where one of the world’s finest collections of cacti, succulents, shrubs and arid-land bulbs grow.

Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida spreads a blanket of sand and warmth along the state’s southernmost Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Starting around Port Charlotte in the north and tripping along a continuum of cities and beach towns all the way to the Everglades, Southwest Florida is a vacationing mecca for any tourist seeking sun, water sports, wild treasures, topnotch golf, world-class shopping, fresh seafood, and some of the finest Florida hotels and resorts to be found.

In tourism circles, Southwest Florida is known for the best beaches in the world; they populate maps of Southwest Florida from one end to the other. Thanks to our tropical Florida weather, playing outdoors happens year-round on the beaches and beyond. Whether your idea of fun and adventure means a hole-in-one, pulling in a feisty 100-pound tarpon, or whizzing through the Everglades alligator wetlands, you will find the vacation that’s meant for you in SW Florida.

Southwest Florida Top Attractions

Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Step into the lives of the world’s greatest inventors through the Thomas Edison and Henry Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers. With 15,000 square feet of inventions and artifacts, it is one of the top ten most visited historic homes in the nation. Learn More

Swamp Buggy Races

Ever wanted to really experience the Florida swamps, but didn’t know how? Swamp Buggy Races offers the chance to do just that. The buggies were born from necessity to get through the swamps, but like any other vehicle, the swamp buggy soon took its place in the racing world. Learn More

Historic Spanish Point

Take a step into the past and experience the history of Florida by visiting the Historic Spanish Point. You will be immersed in the history of this region with tours and nature walks, as well as a historical boat trip on “Magic”. With a variety of tours to choose from, you will always find the perfect excursion. Learn More

A Boater’s Paradise

Awarded the “Cleanest Marina,” the Fisherman’s Village, located in Punta Gorda on Charlotte Harbor, provides everything that you would need to experience the majesty of the harbor. The Fisherman’s Village is a marina as well as a resort, making it easy to enjoy the harbor to its fullest. Learn More

Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum

In the Seminole language, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki means ‘a place to learn’ and the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum does just that. Rare artifacts from Seminole prehistory to its most recent moments make this one of America’s finest Native American museums. Learn More

Mound Key State Archeological Site

This 125-acre island rises more than 30 feet above the water in Estero Bay and can only be reached by boat, which makes it a perfect destination for water-lovers. Mound Key State Archeological Site brings the past to life, preserving the artifacts of prehistoric Native Americans. Learn More

Big “M” Casino Boat

Big “M” Casino Boat will give you thrills of being in Las Vegas, while enjoying the beauty of the ocean! This 186-foot luxury yacht offers a variety of games for every gambler. On every ride, you will also get an excellent buffet as well as entertainment after a long day of playing. Learn More

Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida

The Holocaust was one of the most horrific periods of the world and it cannot be forgotten – and you certainly won’t after a visit to the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida. Created based on the thoughts of seventh-grade students, this museum houses some of the rarest articles of the Holocaust. Learn More

The Schoolhouse Theater

Take an evening during your getaway and enjoy Sanibel Island’s only musical theater! The Schoolhouse Theater provides a close, intimate setting with Broadway-quality talent. The Theater is kid-friendly, so bring the whole family! Learn More

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

These aren’t your typical botanical gardens. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota is home to many tropical plants not even found in America. The Gardens’ seven greenhouses hold more than 20,000 plants. This collection of botanicals is sure to delight the eyes of all ages.

The Best of Southwest Florida

Air Boating

Skim through the “river of grass,” past mangroves and marshlands aboard an airboat piloted by native Seminole Corey Billie or his crew of local captains who know the best spots for gator, osprey and roseate spoonbill photo-ops. The gift shop’s authentic tomahawks are better than any souvenir T-shirt.

Paddle the Islands

Explore mangrove tunnels and the quiet backwaters along Chokoloskee Bay, Sandfly Key and the surrounding Ten Thousand Islands during a guided or solo paddling excursion from Naples Kayak Company’s Everglades City location.

Say Aah to Spa

Let skillful massage therapists and aestheticians knead, rub and exfoliate your cares away at the famed Golden Door Spa in Naples. Follow a bamboo massage or fresh fruit sugar scrub with a leisurely day spent relaxing in the hot tub and sauna. Enjoy a coconut macaroon on your way out.

Shelling Safari

Sanibel’s beaches offer a treasure trove for shell seekers, but the folks at the island’s Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum claim that Blind Pass or Bowman’s Beach are the best for the elusive junonia shell. Find one and you get your picture in the newspaper.

Island Hopping

Think of Tropic Star’s water taxi as your own private island-hopping limo to Pine Island Sound’s barrier islands. Beach comb deserted Cayo Costa, savor a cheeseburger in paradise at Cabbage Key Inn and get the camera ready as you pass historic fishing houses perched on stilts above the water.

Fight with a Fish

You’ll be thankful for that upper-body gym workout once a 150-pound tarpon tugs on your line while you’re fishing with Capt. McLaughlin along Boca Grande Pass in the Gulf. They grow big here and can take up to 20 minutes to land.

Seafood Special

Cast a line right outside your room at Bridgewater Inn in Matlacha, a rustic 1920s fishing town that’s home to the “world’s fishingest bridge,” a handful of artists’ studios, Bert’s seafood shack and nary a beach.

From Dawn to Dusk

Take inspiration from the name of America’s No. 1 beach — Siesta Key — and spend a day dozing in the sun, splashing in the aqua-tinged Gulf or playing in the silky-soft sand. Grab a bite to eat at the concession stand or walk to nearby Siesta Key Village for dinner before returning for a Sarasota sunset.

Away with the Circus

Visiting Sarasota’s Ringling Museum of Art is akin to Dorothy peeking behind the curtain in Oz. You get an insider’s perspective on “the greatest show on Earth” and, thanks to an addition at the Circus Museum, a look at the acrobats and aerialists who dazzled audiences — plus a chance to walk a tightrope.

Nature Lovers

Inside the tropical conservatory at Marie Selby Gardens in Sarasota, you’re surrounded by a dazzling tropical rain forest of bromeliads and no fewer than 6,000 orchids, many of which you’ve probably never seen before. Take the canopy walkway through a banyan grove and sample teas at the Carriage House.