The Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA: Where To Stay, Eat, And Play

Unlike in winter in Provincetown, when this unique destination is cozy and relatively empty, P-town (as it is called by many) in summer has a feeling of constant celebration; it is chock-full of parades, outdoor entertainment, bikes zipping through crowds on the street, and sugar-charged children and adults.

Getting to Provincetown in the summer also takes some creative planning. Although P-town is only about 60 miles from Boston as the crow flies (and, although pricey, you can fly to the small Provincetown Municipal Airport), it can be a multi-hour trek by car to the very tip of Cape Cod during the summer. On weekends, more than 100,000 cars will cross the Bourne and Sagamore bridges from the mainland.

3 Stress-Free Ways To Arrange Your Journey

1. Practice Meditative Driving

And don’t go on Friday afternoon or return on Sunday. You may enjoy your journey more if you stop at Moby Dick’s Restaurant or other spots along the way. You’ll get there eventually.

2. Drive While A Festival Is In Progress

That’s what we did last year. I arrived while the Carnival parade was going on. It was a breeze — and we even got to see the end of the parade.

3. Leave The Car At Home

Take a bus (Greyhound goes out the cape) or, much more pleasant, a fast ferry from Boston (it’s a 90-minute journey with Bay State or Boston Harbor Cruises). There are also less frequent ferries from Plymouth.

The entrance to MacMillan Pier. — Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock

Things To Do In Provincetown

1. Take A Trip From MacMillan Wharf

When you step off the boat you’ll be right on MacMillan wharf, with boats lined up for whale-and-seal watching trips, schooners and fishing boats, flocks of seagulls, and happy tourists already relaxing. Almost everything is in walking distance or, if you are traveling light, you can rent a bicycle at Provincetown Bike Rentals, Arnold’s Bike Shop, P-town Bikes, or others.

2. Wander Commercial Street

The main street in Provincetown is lined with charming houses, many surrounded by brightly-colored gardens, as well as a plethora of shops, historic inns, great views to the bay, and dogs (and their owners) of all shapes and sizes.

3. Discover The Long Point Floater Homes

A fun walk into history can include looking for distinctive white-on-blue plaques that mark buildings that were moved by rafts and floated across the harbor from Long Point (site of the Long Point lighthouse) to Provincetown beginning in 1850 because of challenges to their fishing industry.

The beach at Long Point is accessible in summer from MacMillan wharf via a boat shuttle or a strenuous eight-mile round trip hike.

4. Head Out To The Beaches

Thousands of people end up either at Herring Cove or at Race Point in the summer months. Both beaches are part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Everyone — on bike, car, or foot — has to pay a fee to get on the beach from June through Labor Day. Cape Cod National Seashore annual passes may be purchased online, or you can use your America the Beautiful National Park Pass.

The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM). — EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

5. Peruse Art

Provincetown is America’s oldest continuous art colony. You’ll see art — painting, sculpture, folk art, and crafts — all over town. But P-town’s amazing collection of museums and art galleries include the 100-year-old Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM), the Fine Arts Work Center, and the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum, as well as such galleries as the Albert Merola Gallery, the Cortile Gallery, the Schoolhouse Gallery, and the Julie Heller Gallery.

Where To Eat In Provincetown

Eating (and drinking) are main activities in Provincetown in the summer, and there are a variety of places, from shops selling sandwiches to casual outdoor cafes to high-end restaurants overlooking the bay. Here are some that are memorable:

1. Nor’East Beer Garden

Choose from an extensive menu of craft beers, herb-infused cocktails, and fresh Wellfleet oysters, pasta, and more, all while sitting in a cool, plant-filled haven right on Commercial Street.

2. Aqua Bar

Enter the Aquarium Mall from Commercial Street, grab something to eat at the food court, and wander back to the Aqua Bar to drink and gaze at the beach and bay. On a sunny day, you may have to wait for a seat, but lots of tourists aren’t aware of this pleasant escape from the crowds.

3. Relish Bakery and Sandwich Shop

Relish is a great place to pick up provisions for the beach, with everything from breakfast sandwiches to salads and vegan dishes to sweets.

4. Provincetown Portuguese Bakery

Famous for its fried dough with granulated sugar and cinnamon called malasada in Portuguese, this storefront is unprepossessing but an appreciated remnant of the large Portuguese community in P-town.

5. The Lobster Pot

The Lobster Pot has been in business for more than 70 years. This family-run restaurant is the go-to place for fish chowder and lobster rolls — their steak has fans, as well.

6. Spiritus Pizza

A long (50-year) beloved go-to place for reasonably priced pizza and other snacks, Spiritus Pizza is especially popular with night owls (the kitchen stays open until an hour after the bars close).

7. Lewis Brothers Homemade Ice Cream

Worth a sometimes long line, Lewis Brothers features flavors like maple walnut and black raspberry, along with such originals as Grape Nut and green tea. They also have a solar-powered ice cream truck that visits the beaches.

Where To Shop In Provincetown

Shops in Provincetown largely rely on the summer crowds to keep them going year-round, as do restaurants and hotels.

1. Provincetown Bookshop

Pick up a copy of Michael Cunnigham’s Land’s End: A Walk in Provincetown in this 90-year-old bookstore to give depth to your visit. Current and past P-town residents wrote many books sold here. Also check out Ted’s Used Books nearby.

2. Botanica

Botanica is a home and garden store that features everything from plants to pots to birdhouses and candles, all designed with love and an original eye.

3. Captain’s Daughters

A teahouse and boutique, Captain’s Daughters has been described as “one part tea bar, one part gallery, and one part boutique.”

4. Mad As A Hatter

Whether you are looking for a beach hat, a fedora, or a straw boater, Mad as a Hatter will provide toppers that you never knew you needed.

5. Map

Map is an eclectic kind of alternative shop with everything from t-shirts to hip home decor and cool posters.

Where To Stay In Provincetown

Wherever you stay in Provincetown in the summer, make sure that you make reservations well in advance. Few places are inexpensive in high season (although there are some Airbnbs that are bargains).

1. Inn At Cook Street

On the east end of town, the historic Inn at Cook Street was built in 1836 and has been lovingly maintained. Built in Greek Revival style, it has a main house, two cottages, and gardens.

2. White Porch Inn Art Hotel

A mixture of modern and classic, many rooms at the White Porch Inn include fireplaces and spa tubs and provide views of either Pilgrim Monument or the bay.

3. Lands End Inn

Set on a hill overlooking the town, Lands End Inn offers panoramic ocean views and a sunny dining room with a great room featuring a fireplace and a solarium.

4. Secret Garden Inn

Near the center of town, the small seven-room Secret Garden Inn was once an 1830s sea captain’s home; it has a private garden and views of the harbor from a balcony.

5. Carpe Diem Guesthouse And Spa

Featuring a Zen garden and Namaste Spa with free access for guests, Carpe Diem Guesthouse features 18 rooms and a full breakfast.

Travel Tips

Attend A Celebration

The nightly throb of music emanating from P-town’s infamous bars and cabarets is heard up and down Commercial Street — especially on weekends — but some of P-town’s most happily raucous celebrations happen during the daylight hours.

Some of these have been canceled in 2020, like the giant LGBTQ-friendly Family Week in August, but so far others are still on the schedule. Still, be sure to check ahead of time.

In June, the four-day Provincetown Portuguese Festival is filled with traditional Portuguese music, dancing, and food. It ends with the Blessing of the Fleet, during which a statue of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fisherman, is carried to MacMillan wharf. Boats — many bedecked with flags and pennants — are blessed by the bishop.

Other Summer Highlights

July: July 4 Parade and Fireworks

August: Whale Week, Provincetown Jazz Festival, Carnival Week

September: Antique Car Show and Parade, Pet Appreciation Week and Blessing of the Animals

For more recommendations (many of which are accessible during the summertime, too), see our take on Provincetown as a perfect winter weekend getaway.

Canyonlands National Park: 11 Key Things To Know Before Visiting

Canyonlands is one of the big five national parks in Utah. Encompassing 527 square miles of canyons, arches, buttes, rivers, and mesas, Utah’s largest national park is a colorful landscape.

The Colorado and Green rivers have carved the park into four distinct districts: the Maze, Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the rivers. All have a primitive desert atmosphere, but each offers different opportunities for your viewing and exploring pleasure.

Canyonlands is just 30 minutes (26 miles) away from Arches National Park. Many visitors spend time in Arches and forget Canyonlands is hiding in the shadows. Even though it is near Arches, it is very different, and you shouldn’t miss it. It offers hiking, stargazing, camping, water activities, and technical rock climbing as well as beautiful vistas for viewing and photography.

Here, we answer 11 important questions so you have key information for planning your visit.

The Needles in Canyonlands National Park. — Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

1. Where Is The Best Sightseeing In Canyonlands National Park?

As mentioned above, the rivers divide the park into three districts plus the rivers. Each of the districts has different types of landmarks and scenery.

Island In The Sky

Island in the Sky is the most visited and accessible district, offering expansive views from many overlooks along the paved scenic drive. You can park and view a variety of scenic wonders from the vista points without hiking.

The most popular site in the park is Mesa Arch. It is a spectacular stone arch perched at the edge of a cliff with vast views of canyons, rock spires, and the La Sal Mountains in the background. It is a relatively easy half-mile hiking trail. Early morning and late in the day are the best times for photos. It is one of the busiest spots and can become crowded.

There are several hikes of varying lengths available for those who desire more exercise.

For the adventurous 50+ traveler wanting more excitement, there is a moderate four-wheel-drive route called the White Rim Road for your enjoyment (note that it requires a permit).

Island in the Sky is one of the places we visited when we were at Canyonlands National Park. We spent the better part of a day in just this section viewing the different landscapes.

The Needles

The Needles offers more of a backcountry experience, requiring some hiking or four-wheel driving to see the area’s attractions. Those with physical limitations that make walking or hiking a challenge should probably not attempt to visit this area.

The Maze

The Maze is a remote district requiring considerably more time and self-reliance to visit. You need to be in excellent physical condition to attempt hiking in this area. It can easily take three days to see it all, plus hours to get there. So be prepared if you decide to visit the Maze.

The Rivers

There are a variety of ways to enjoy Canyonlands National Park via its rivers.

Flat water trips on the Green or Colorado rivers are popular. Whitewater trips in Cataract Canyon that include Class V rapids are also available and provide a unique way to experience the park that usually involves two or more days of boating.

There are also kayak, canoe, paddleboard, and tubing options available.

When we visited, we chose a jet boat tour to see more of the park in less time. The tour was three hours in length, and we zipped through the 2,200-foot canyon walls on the calm part of the river to see a fossilized sea bed, beautiful views of arches, and Native American petroglyphs, among other things.

Native American rock art panels in Canyonlands National Park. — Michael P. Smith

2. What Are The Other Must-See Areas?

Horseshoe Canyon Unit

Northwest of The Maze, Horseshoe Canyon is a day-use area with stunning Native American rock art panels. During our boat tour, we visited this area as well. It was my favorite. You will find impressive rock art on the walls. We were able to see this area both during daylight and at night.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Nearby Dead Horse Point State Park showcases 2,000-foot vertical cliffs carved by ice, water, and wind that have created a visual masterpiece. Just over 30 miles from Moab, it is one of the most photographed places in the world.

Dead Horse Point’s famous cliff was highlighted in the movies Thelma and Louise, Mission Impossible II, and The Lone Ranger.

3. Is Hiking Available In Canyonlands National Park?

Hiking and backpacking in Canyonlands National Park is a dream come true for day hikers and thru-hikers alike. The Needles district alone provides over 70 miles of hiking paths.

The awe-inspiring Mesa Arch in the Island in the Sky district is an easy hike for most. It is a great family hike at just a half-mile in length. It is often crowded during busy times, but other hikes in the district are usually uncrowded.

Each region of the park offers secluded backpacking that will provide incredible views. Be on the lookout for black bears if you are in secluded areas. Be sure to double-check and learn about the required permits before you head out, and read up on tips for safely viewing wildlife in national parks, too.

Beautiful views of Canyonlands National Park. — Michael P. Smith

4. Should I Take A Guided Tour Of Canyonlands National Park?

Due to the size of the park, most tours focus on one district of the park. With over 337,598 acres of land in the park, it is hard to know what to visit and what is worth the limited time you might have. Booking a local guide to visit must-see destinations and learn about the park’s history might be a great option.

You can find a variety of guides available via Google search. I found a boat tour with a guide (more info below) that was an excellent option.

5. Is Boating Permitted In Canyonlands National Park?

The Colorado and Green rivers with their currents and tributaries have carved out and shaped the landscape of Canyonlands. What better way to see the park than from the river, looking up at the towering walls of the canyons? Seeing it by boat or watercraft gives you a unique perspective. Within Canyonlands, the rivers offer miles of calm, flat water perfect for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Below where the rivers meet, the combined flow of both rivers spills down Cataract Canyon, creating class III to V whitewater rapids for 14 miles.

Unfortunately, there are no areas within the park to launch boats. All launch ramps are outside the park boundaries.

All private river trips require a permit. Day-use permits are available up to 24 hours in advance.

There are a variety of tours available that take the stress out of seeing Canyonlands by boat. We used Canyonlands by Day and Night for both our daytime jet boat tour and an evening Sound and Light Show jet boat tours.

6. When Is The Best Time To Visit Canyonlands National Park?

All seasons showcase the natural beauty of Canyonlands. Spring and fall are ideal with the daytime temps ranging from 60 to 83 degrees. It is significantly warmer in the summer, with many 100+ degree temps and late afternoon thunderstorms. Winter is beautiful, but temperatures do dip below freezing.

Even though it is hot, crowds are plentiful in summer when school is out of session.

7. How Much Time Do You Need To Visit Canyonlands?

It is impossible to see it all in just a day or two. To see the entire park, you should plan four or five days within Canyonlands and will wind up driving approximately 100 miles each day. Though they appear close on a map, there are no roads that directly link the districts to each other. Traveling from one district to another requires two to six hours by car as there are few places to cross the rivers.

If you have a week, I suggest staying in Moab and dividing your time between Arches National Park and Canyonlands. While there, squeeze in a visit to Dead Horse Point State Park as well. If time is limited, I suggest taking a boat tour or selecting one specific area of the park to visit.

When we visited, we spent a day doing the boat tour. We did two tours, one in daylight and one at night. They provide a light show on the evening tour. The second day, we drove through the Island in the Sky area.

8. What Is The Weather Like At Canyonlands National Park?

Bitterly cold winters and sizzling hot summers are the norm in Canyonlands with elevations ranging from 3,700 to 7,200 feet above sea level. Temperatures may fluctuate 40 degrees in a single day. Rainfall is less than 10 inches per year.

9. Can I Stay In Canyonlands National Park?

There are two camping sites within the park, Squaw Flat and Willow Flat, plus numerous backcountry campsites (permits are required). You won’t find any hotels or cabins.

If you are not a camper, I recommend staying in Moab. They have hotels and many Airbnbs.

Both times we were in Moab, we stayed at Airbnbs in the same complex. It was beautifully decorated, centrally located, and had all the comforts of home, plus a few more, like a hot tub on the patio and a community pool a few steps away.

Stunning rock formations in Canyonlands National Park. — Michael P. Smith

10. Is Dining Available In Canyonlands National Park?

There are no dining facilities in Canyonlands National Park, so plan to take a picnic lunch and snacks with you when spending the day. If camping, be sure you have sufficient food for your stay. Nothing is sold within the park.

There are many restaurants in the Moab area, but they are a half hour away from the park.

11. What Is The Entry Fee?

You can also use a National Parks Pass at Canyonlands or will have to pay a per-person, motorcycle, or private vehicle fee. Up-to-date entrance fees can be found here.

Travel Tips

Beat the heat by planning ahead and visiting in the morning and evening during the peak of summer.
Sunscreen: Whether hiking or just driving around the park, the sun’s rays will be intense at Canyonland’s elevation, and you need sunscreen. See our best sunscreen of 2020 review here.
Take snacks or picnic lunch — remember there is no food in the park.
Bring plenty of water. You will need it, and none is sold in the park. You can never have too much water when visiting the desert.
Sturdy shoes are a must for hiking.
Depending on your activity, permits may be needed, so be sure to double-check before departing on your adventure.

Do yourself a favor and don’t hurry through the park. Let nature speak to you as you visit and enjoy the beautiful masterpiece nature has painted in the desert.

Shifting Gears: How My Approach To Travel Changed From My 60s To My 70s

There has been a decided but welcome shift in how we travel. When I was in my 60s, I was bouncing around. We had just married and plunged into RVing as a never-ending honeymoon. I drove my husband nuts because I wanted to see so many things and felt we had such little time left. As I approached my 70s, though, the purpose, pace, and budget of our travels changed.

The writer and her husband in the Arctic Circle. — Carol Colborn

Purpose

When I became a sexygenarian — a word I coined to substitute for sexagenarian to make it more exciting — I had just retired. It was early but work had burned me out. I traveled then, but I usually just saw the four walls of a hotel. I was too focused on earning enough as a single parent. Thus, I felt my time had finally come. I wanted to see as much of the world as possible.

One story I will never forget happened when I was 61. I had stayed up all night to wait for the Northern Lights in Dawson City in Canada but was sadly disappointed. Instead of going back down to the U.S., I urged my husband to drive farther north to the Arctic Circle on the Yukon. We spent three days and two nights on gravel roads. Our RV would have died had my husband not used his belt to prop up the tailpipe that had broken loose. But I wanted the bragging rights.

Even before I reached my 70s, however, things began to change. My husband says the turning point probably happened when we started to hibernate during winter at Viewpoint RV and Golf Resort in Phoenix. Our momentum was broken and inertia set in. He discovered he was already tired of hooking and unhooking the RV every one to three weeks. It was time to slow down, he said. He had already turned 70, and it was understandable.

We bought a home base at Viewpoint Golf Resort and sold our huge motorhome. We were finally able to make a real home, eight years after we married. Now we travel to places where family and friends live or where we have made great memories and select new destinations where our timeshare memberships have great resorts for us to enjoy. We intend to explore the areas around these places.

The Omar Mosque in Brunei. — Carol Colborn

Pace

These two decades of my life couldn’t be more different in terms of pace. As a sexygenarian, I was obsessed with speed. In the beginning, we stayed only three to four days at a campground. Later, it became longer but only for a max of two or three weeks. Still, I felt I had the energy of a 50-year-old. As a sensuagenarian — instead of septuagenarian, so it can also be exciting — I have followed my husband’s lead.

When I was 69, for example, I traveled to four Southeast Asian countries in just four days with my girlfriends. I was on a rare visit to the Philippines and had very little time to spare. So we stayed overnight at the international airport in Malaysia, spent a day and a half in Vientiane, Laos, overnighted at the international airport in Bangkok, and spent a day and a half in Brunei.

Now that I am 72, I fully agree with my husband. I have begun to like spending rest time at a base, like our home, and use it to explore the neighboring areas with more comfort and convenience. In a sense, I have seen the wisdom of the slow and gradual revelation of landscapes, landmarks, and stories that surround us wherever we are.

Last month, for example — before our trip was cut short by circumstances that now affect everyone worldwide — we spent two weeks in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico instead of our usual week. After a busy day trip, we took a rest day at the beautiful beach behind our resort in Nuevo Vallarta before doing another trip the following day. We were able to cover all the places we wanted to see and still had time to luxuriate at the resort and enjoy the nearby areas.

The Golden Stupa in Vientiane, Laos. — Carol Colborn

Budget

When we were in our 60s, we bought second-hand RVs, cooked our meals and ate in a lot, and delighted at finding treasures in Goodwill stores. Our income had shrunk to a monthly pension, investment dividends, and rental money from our homes. We were so successful in following our budget that we lived on far less than we would have if we’d stayed home.

When I was 69, I flew 36 hours from Phoenix to Melbourne instead of taking the normal 18-hour flight because the fare that included long layovers in Guangzhou was dirt cheap. Well, I never got to see the city as I’d intended to during the long layovers. Instead, I suffered in the airport for seven hours on the way there and 12 hours on the way back, both without Facebook. There were times we chose cheaper lodging even if it was far from the city center. And there were many times we kept to street or fast food to save travel dollars.

Now that we are in our 70s, we need to travel more comfortably, if not stylishly. Being older, we look for more convenience, too. That means a higher budget, which leads to traveling less and more selectively. It’s good our children told us to die poor. Now we are vacationing in timeshares — we have four months’ worth — that give us a consistent level of quality at a more affordable cost.

As a matter of fact, when we were in Mougins, France, for a week, we realized we didn’t have enough time to cover all the places we wanted to see. So we arranged for a car with a driver to take us to all the picturesque towns around Nice, including Eze, Saint Paul de Vence, and Grasse. We got to go to Monaco, too. Maybe later on, we will even be able to upgrade to business class for long haul flights.

Now I can say that I am past bouncing around. I prefer slow and immersive travels. We look for a base where we can stay for preferably a minimum of two weeks and from where we can leisurely explore the neighboring areas with comfort and convenience. And going to every country is no longer a dream. Instead, I look forward to our all-inclusive three-month vacation at a resort in Mexico, which has become a mainstay, too.

7 Things To Do In Kearney, Nebraska

Kearney is known as the best place in Nebraska to view the annual spring sandhill crane migration. However, the central Nebraska community of about 31,000 is home to a variety of attractions that make it a great place to visit at any time of the year.

If you’re visiting for the crane migration, plan on an extra day to take in the sights. If you’re looking for an enjoyable long weekend getaway, Kearney is an excellent option. It offers everything from pioneer history to local art to outstanding dining options.

Here are seven things to do when you’re in the area.

The Archway in Kearney, Nebraska. — Charles Lewis / Shutterstock

1. The Archway

Crossing Interstate 80, The Archway celebrates the pioneers’ westward migration across the plains. Three major pioneer trails passed through Nebraska — the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails — and each followed a similar route to the Rocky Mountains.

The interactive exhibits at The Archway give visitors a sense of the challenges the pioneers faced as they left their homes in the East for a new life in the West. As you explore the museum, you’ll encounter exhibits simulating lightning striking the prairie along with claps of thunder. Out in the open, there was no protection against these storms. Then you’ll see the landfills where pioneers dumped their family heirlooms and furniture they hoped to bring with them, but instead bogged down the wagon trains. The exhibits also offer a look at the relationship between the pioneers and Native Americans.

Another exhibit focuses on travel across United States Route 30, also known as the Lincoln Highway. Built in the early 1900s, it was the first transcontinental highway that connected the East Coast to San Francisco. Nebraska was one of the states the highway ran through. Kearney celebrates its place on the highway with exhibits showcasing auto travel, including an old-fashioned diner and drive-in.

2. Classic Car Collection

Whether or not you’re a classic car enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the stories behind the vehicles at the Classic Car Collection. Appropriately located on the historic U.S. Route 30, the museum features an assortment of vehicles donated by a couple who sought to keep their 200-car collection together rather than sell them individually. With more than 125 vehicles on display at a time, the Classic Car Collection showcases them against fun backdrops, including a vintage downtown scene, a gas station display, and a drive-in showing classic movies.

3. Museum Of Nebraska Art

Housed inside an old post office, the Museum of Nebraska Art features the works of native Nebraska artists and others who have called the state home. From oil paintings to sculptures, there’s a lot of talent showcased over the three floors. Some paintings depict scenes you’ll find around the state, such as people gathering at a local ice cream joint or sandhill cranes spending time in area cornfields.

Behind the museum is the Hillegass Sculpture Garden, named in honor of the founder of CliffsNotes. Cliff Hillegass graduated from Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska — find the sculpture of him sitting on a bench holding a copy of his notes. You’ll find about a dozen other sculptures in the garden, including one recognizing Nebraska’s infatuation with basketball.

4. G.W. Frank Museum Of History And Culture

The G.W. Frank family lived in this Richardsonian Romanesque mansion from 1886 until 1900. One of the first homes west of the Missouri River to be wired for electricity, the mansion had 10 fireplaces.

Today, the home is the G.W. Frank Museum of History and Culture and is located on the campus of the University of Nebraska at Kearney. When you tour the historic house, take in the fine wood-carved staircase and furnishings, as well as the rooms decorated as they were when the Frank family lived there.

Fort Kearny State Historical Park in Nebraska. — Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

5. Fort Kearny State Historical Park

Built in 1848 to protect settlers traveling along the Oregon and California Trails, Fort Kearny also served as an outlet for the Pony Express, a stagecoach stop, and housing for workers along the railroad. Today, the Fort Kearny State Historical Park offers a look back in time with a replica of the fort’s walls, a blacksmith shop, and a stockade. Visitors can also stroll the parade grounds.

This area is an excellent spot for bird-watching during crane migration time, and it’s a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch. Note that you must have a permit to visit — you can purchase one at the visitor center.

Sandhill cranes from the Rowe Sanctuary. — Megan Bonham / Shutterstock

6. Iain Nicolson Audubon Center At Rowe Sanctuary

Located a few minutes east of Kearney, the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary offers visitors an opportunity to spot birds in their natural habitat year-round. Hugging the Platte River, the Rowe Sanctuary is home to natural trails where you can enjoy a leisurely hike, taking in views of beautiful birds like the belted kingfisher and piping plover.

During the spring migration, the sanctuary hosts daily tours showcasing the sandhill cranes. You might also spot the elusive whooping crane or bald eagle patrolling the river. A few miles away, you can watch the cranes nesting for the evening from a public viewing station.

7. Shopping In Kearney

Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs at the Stagecoach gift shop or exploring downtown’s shops and boutiques, you’ll find plenty of local treasures in Kearney.

As you explore downtown Kearney — also known as The Bricks because of its brick streets — you’ll find a variety of shops, including gift shops, clothing boutiques, and pottery stores.

Best Restaurants In Kearney

Angus Burgers & Shakes

Angus Burgers & Shakes serves up unique burgers from beef raised by the restaurant’s owners. For something that challenges your palate, try the relleno burger, starring poblano peppers, Monterey Jack cheese, avocado spread, salsa verde, cilantro, and mayo. For something milder, consider The Knockoff, a basic cheeseburger with regular toppings.

You’ll want to forget about any diet when you dine here, because you’ll want to cap your meal with one of the handmade shakes. These aren’t your average shakes — each is specially designed. Try the banana pudding shake, which features vanilla ice cream, a whole banana, Vanilla Wafers, and chocolate garnish, or the Captain Crunch, with vanilla ice cream and lots of Captain Crunch cereal. You can always order a basic vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry shake if you’re not feeling adventurous.

Alley Rose

With a menu that features delicious steaks, sandwiches, and entrees such as turkey and brie frites, Alley Rose offers a casual dining environment. With its fireplace and brick walls, the restaurant is a throwback to the old-fashioned steakhouse with salad buffet. The aged steaks, seafood, and pasta are reasonably priced and delicious. Alley Rose also offers an excellent wine menu with both reds and whites.

The Breakfast Cart & Catering

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, head to The Breakfast Cart & Catering, which has been serving up breakfast in Kearney for nearly a decade. The Breakfast Cart offers classic breakfasts — such as two eggs, breakfast potatoes, and your choice of meat (bacon, ham, or sausage) — as well as omelets and egg sandwiches. You can also enjoy the eatery’s unique cinnamon monkey bread.

Best Hotels In Kearney

You’ll have your choice of national chain hotels in Kearney, including Hampton Inn, Country Inn & Suites, and Holiday Inn Express.

However, if you’re looking for a unique experience, you might want to reserve a room at Burchell’s White Hill Farmhouse Inn near Minden, Nebraska. About a 25-minute drive south of Kearney, the converted farmhouse features four guest rooms, each with a private bathroom and entrance. Located on a century-old working farm, Burchell’s White Hill Farmhouse Inn offers plenty of quaint country charm.

For more on the sandhill crane migration, see this page.

South Dakota Road Trip: Sioux Falls To Deadwood

South Dakota is a state with many different landscapes. When you start your road trip on the eastern side of the state, you are in the rolling hills. On the western end of your road trip, the Black Hills greet you for an experience of a lifetime in and around the forested area near Deadwood. Summer is a great time to explore South Dakota as the weather is ripe for stunning outdoor activities.

This road trip offers experiences all year long, but summertime brings magical experiences that do not happen year-round. The wide open skies with beautiful summer sunsets along this route offer an opportunity to appreciate middle America. Here are my recommendations of the things that you need to experience on your epic South Dakota road trip. Keep in mind that I suggest a one-week itinerary, but this road trip could easily fill two weeks of your time.

Sioux Falls in South Dakota. — Steven Frame / Shutterstock

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls is located along the eastern side of the state and is home to beautiful Falls Park. The park itself covers 123 acres and is beautiful during the daylight but extra colorful after the sun goes down. The Butterfly House and Aquarium is fun for everyone as it’s home to more than 800 free-flying butterflies who will greet you. Highlights of the aquarium are the coral reefs, marine life, and other sea creatures who reside in South Dakota’s only public saltwater aquarium.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Sculpture Walk, and the Arc of Dreams offers a nice walking tour of the downtown area. Visitors have the opportunity to explore art and take in the beautiful downtown while experiencing culture in the Midwest. Plan a minimum of two hours in the downtown area and one full day to explore before you head west toward the other side of the state. Sioux Falls offers a good three days worth of activities, which means you will have several things to choose from.

The Mitchell Corn Palace in South Dakota. — Phil Lowe / Shutterstock

Mitchell, South Dakota

Mitchell is home to The World’s Only Corn Palace. As an Iowa farm girl, I grew up stopping here on all of our trips to the Black Hills and Yellowstone. To this day, I still stop here with my family when we head west in South Dakota. I highly recommend that everyone visit the Corn Palace as it’s a wonderful tribute to agriculture and beautiful architecture.

The Dakota Discovery Museum is an affordable museum that offers insight into history and art. These two attractions alone make Mitchell a place to unwind from your South Dakota road trip. Another unique place to explore is the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village, which showcases archaeology in many different forms. RV parking is available onsite at the village as are picnic areas for your enjoyment.

The Dignity of Earth and Sky sculpture in Chamberlain. — Richdoc / Shutterstock

Chamberlain, South Dakota

A highlight of Chamberlain is the Dignity of Earth and Sky sculpture of a Native American woman standing tall on a bluff over the Missouri River. She honors the Native Americans of the Great Plains and can be accessed via I-90 at the Chamberlain rest area. Be sure to take a photo of this stunning sculpture and visit the wonderful museum inside the rest stop. I would plan to spend two days in this area.

The Native American National and State Scenic Byway runs through this area of the state. Landscapes along the way include mixed-grass prairie and rolling hills that end in limestone cliffs that line the river in many places. It’s common to see prairie dogs, pronghorn, and deer as you travel this north-south route through central South Dakota. A lot of this route is undeveloped, making it a historical route that appears to be untouched by time.

Hunting and fishing are both very popular, and the area offers several outfitters and lodges that accommodate guests. Birding is very popular in the Chamberlain area, so make sure you have packed your binoculars.

Wall, South Dakota

Wall is home to the world famous Wall Drug. As you travel westward to Wall, you will see signs that read, So many miles to Wall Drug. In the 1930s, this became known as the place to stop for free ice water as folks traveled west. Plan to spend a full partial day here, as you will find unique shops, Western art collections, a chapel, and even a good old-fashioned soda fountain.

Your stop would not be complete without a meal at the Wall Drug Store Cafe. The bison burgers are popular as is the coffee. If you enjoy quirky roadside attractions, you will fall in love with Wall Drug. If not, you may want to travel onward to the next stop, which is south of town.

Badlands National Park offers rugged beauty that you cannot find elsewhere. The bighorn sheep will lure you in, and you will spot them around many turns. If you are fortunate, you will also see bison, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets. The overlooks are handicap accessible and afford you vistas of 244,000 acres of natural beauty containing one of the world’s richest fossil beds. I would highly recommend visiting near sunset as the golden hour is truly a magical sight. This park has never been exceptionally busy when I have visited, which makes it an extra special place to visit.

The South Dakota Air and Space Museum. — Paul R. Jones / Shutterstock

Rapid City, South Dakota

Rapid City sits on the eastern edge of the Black Hills and offers experiences that many just drive by. Instead, this is where I suggest you explore museums on this road trip. The South Dakota Air and Space Museum is located at Ellsworth Air Force Base and offers adventure for everyone. With more than 30 vintage military aircraft on site, you will appreciate fascinating stories.

The Museum of Geology offers specific insight into paleontology and mineralogy. Sioux Pottery is made from the red clay that you find in the Black Hills in South Dakota, and it’s fun to see it come to life here. Visitors cannot only view the pottery, but also visit the factory to see how it is made. You will most likely want to plan a future trip to Rapid City alone.

Keystone, South Dakota

Keystone is where you will find yourself in the heart of the Black Hills and can experience Mount Rushmore. The Rushmore Borglum Story is located in town and offers tours that provide insight into the creation of Mount Rushmore. Upon your arrival at Mount Rushmore, you’ll find that this attraction is unique in the fact that there is a fee for parking but admission is free. Hang onto your parking ticket, as it is good for one year. This will give you an excuse to plan another road trip through this area of the country, as Mount Rushmore is truly an all-American experience you may want to have again.

Near Keystone is where you can also hop on the well-known Iron Mountain road. This is where you will experience granite tunnels and pigtail curves. If you are lucky and paying attention, as you near Mount Rushmore, you will have a view of it through your windshield. Anyone with a tendency toward motion sickness will want to sit in the front seat, as this is a winding road.

Deadwood, South Dakota

Deadwood is where you will wrap up your road trip across the beautiful state of South Dakota. This town is loaded with history, as there’s a story to be told around each corner. The Historic Fairmont Hotel, also known as the Oyster Bay Bar and Casino, and the Bullock Hotel are where you can have a ghostly experience if you’re after the paranormal. Mind Blown Studio offers glass blowing classes, which I would highly recommend. You can also grab a sandwich and a cup of coffee while observing this fun craft.

The Historic Adams House offers tours that showcase its beautiful oak interiors, hand-painted canvas wall coverings, and stained glass windows. A tip I would give you is to purchase a combo pass, which includes the Adams Museum, Days of ’76 Museum, and the Historic Adams House. The best tip I can give you is to make time to stroll the streets of Deadwood. You will find something that intrigues you as you explore.

Your road trip from Sioux Falls to Deadwood, South Dakota, has the potential to be a life-changing experience. Make the time to explore each town, dine in the local diners, and get to know the people in the communities. The people of South Dakota are warm, welcoming, and very proud of their state. From the historical sites and museums to outstanding nature experiences, I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed in the time that you spend in South Dakota.

Travel Down Memory Lane With Mom Photo Contest

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