8 Places To See Baby Sea Turtles Hatch

We vacationers aren’t the only ones who flock to the beach in the summer. Sea turtles of egg-laying age, recalling their own brief childhoods on the sand, return to their early homes to build nests when the weather heats up.

About two months later, lucky viewers can watch swarms of hatchling sea turtles rush along the beach toward the ocean, safety, and a long life at sea, navigating by the moonlight and the downward slope of the sand. Someday, years from now, they may return to the very same spot to make their own nests.

If you’re smitten with sea turtles, here are a few of the top spots to watch the hatchlings start their journeys. Depending on the location, hatching season can vary; according to Sea Turtle Trackers Inc., hatching season stretches from April through October, but it’s best to contact the organizations listed below for site-specific predictions.

A baby sea turtle on the beach. — Tommy Daynjer / Shutterstock

1. Fernandina Beach, Florida

Just off the northeast Florida coast, you’ll find a charming barrier landmass called Amelia Island. With 13 miles of beaches, the island offers plenty of options for kicking back and relaxing, but there’s also the unique option of becoming involved with the baby sea turtle hatching process on the island’s Fernandina Beach.

The Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch (AISTW) is a conservation organization that conducts all nesting and evacuation tours for the beaches on the island. While AISTW makes it clear just how difficult it can be to catch the baby turtles in the act of hatching and making their way to the water, you can watch volunteers “excavate” a nest after the hatch. This inventory of egg shells, unhatched eggs, and maybe even live baby turtles who were late to the party is exceptional in its own right.

Paradise island with the Atlantis Resort in the background. — Pola Damonte / Shuttertsock.com

2. Atlantis, Paradise Island, The Bahamas

The Atlantis resort on Paradise Island is just that — a true paradise. This tropical resort is home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat, employs over 100 marine biologists, and offers a variety of marine animal activities. Two of the most memorable experiences available are the Sea Turtle Swim and Hatchling Release.

The first option includes taking a boat out to the turtle release point, where you snorkel alongside a recently released sea turtle. You get to name your turtle, pose with the animal for an unforgettable photo op, and take home an official certificate at the end of the experience. Or you can choose to help release a baby sea turtle on the beach under the moonlight.

Proceeds from both of these activities go toward conservation group The Blue Project. While the resort’s water park, restaurants, and casino can be enjoyed by those staying elsewhere, the Sea Turtle Swim and Hatchling Release are reserved for guests who are checked in at Atlantis. Space is very limited, so be sure to contact the resort about your desire to participate as soon as possible.

3. Boca Raton, Florida

The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center can be found on the southeast shore of Florida in Boca Raton. This nature center is dedicated to the conservation, research, and rehabilitation of sea turtles and offers a range of turtle-centric activities.

Take the Turtle Walk for a decent chance at spotting a sea turtle building a nest. Or sign up for a Hatchling Release. While it may not involve hundreds of baby turtles dodging seagulls, it’s at least a sure chance to see an adorable animal make its way to the ocean.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center release. — Thomas Barrat / Shutterstock.com

4. Juno Beach, Florida

Also along the southeast shore of Florida is the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, which strives to research and preserve sea turtles. Here you’ll find a variety of options to learn about the lives of these fascinating animals — and to get hands-on experience with their egg-laying, hatching, and release cycles.

There’s a guided walk to learn about (and hopefully witness) a female turtle in the process of nesting and laying eggs. You can also choose to help with the excavation of a nest, or check out the after-hours experience of releasing hatchlings into the ocean.

5. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Communities on the Pacific shorelines of Mexico play an integral part in sea turtle conservation. Each year, thousands of turtles come ashore to nest, leading to thousands of baby hatchlings. While Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular resort destinations for tourists, it also has one of the most advanced sea turtle protection programs in the world.

Organizations like the Campamento Tortuguero Boca de Tomates allow visitors to witness hatchling releases. You can also check with local hotels to see if they participate in turtle releases.

A baby sea turtle in Texas. — IrinaK / Shutterstock

6. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

Located just off Texas’s Gulf Shore, not far from Corpus Christi, Padre Island National Seashore is home to a diverse group of sea turtles. There are five different species of sea turtles found in the Gulf, and all five use Padre Island and its surrounding waters for feeding and nesting.

The only sea turtle research branch of the U.S. National Park Service is found here, and the team specializes in recovery, rehabilitation, and protection of these creatures. They also offer public viewings of hatchling releases.

7. Bald Head Island, North Carolina

Off the southern tip of North Carolina, you’ll find Bald Head Island. Here the Bald Head Island Conservancy is helping protect the habitat and lives of the area’s turtles. They offer nest excavation experiences free of charge a couple of days after hatching where handlers will determine how many turtles hatched and assist any unhatched stragglers on their way. Additional educational programs are available including an overnight nest patrol ride-along that is limited to two participants per night. Costs for this and other programs can be found on their site.

8. Jekyll Island, Georgia

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center, located on Jekyll Island, is the state’s only sea turtle rehabilitation facility. In addition to offering insightful environmental education to the public, visitors can also experience turtle walks, beach patrol rides, and nest excavations.

Regardless of where you go to see sea turtles hatching, there will always be an element of chance. This is a natural process, after all, and the turtles themselves aren’t checking their calendars. However, even the sight of one or two of these cute, defenseless little buddies toddling across the beach during a controlled release is enough to change the way you think about the natural world — and our relationship with it. It’s worth it.

Want more of adorable animals in the wild? Here’s where to see koalas in their natural habitats, plus nine places to see reindeer in the wild.

Visiting Budapest’s Shoes On The Danube Memorial

Wander down the Pest (no, not west) side of the Danube River, and you’ll find one of Budapest’s most poignant and historically relevant memorials. What looks like a collection of old shoes is actually a tribute to the innocent Jewish Hungarians who were slaughtered by the Arrow Cross Party at the height of the Second World War.

Known as the Shoes on the Danube Bank, this memorial is a lasting reminder of the dangers of fascism, antisemitism, and xenophobia. Pay your respects to the 20,000 innocent fallen Hungarians on your next trip to Budapest.

Where Is The Shoes On The Danube Memorial?

The Shoes on the Danube is located in front of the Hungarian Parliament on the banks of the Danube River.

Budapest is split into two parts: Buda and Pest, with the Danube separating the two. There are many bridges that span the river, so you can easily cross and visit attractions on either side.

What’s The Story Behind The Memorial?

During the darkest days of the Second World War, the Arrow Cross Party rose to prominence in Hungary and began to carry out their ghoulish campaign of death and terror against Hungarian Jews.

The Shoes on the Danube memorial is a lasting way to honor the victims of the Arrow Cross Party. It’s comprised of 60 pairs of iron shoes scattered along the promenade and represents the final cruel act the Arrow Cross Party inflicted upon its victims, who were made to strip and remove their shoes before they were murdered on the riverbank.

The memorial is the result of a joint effort between artist Gyula Pauer and director Can Togay and was installed in 2005. The simple shoes are accompanied by multi-lingual signs that read: “To the memory of victims shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944-45.”

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of the memorial is that the shoes are different sizes, representing the indiscriminate killing inflicted by the Arrow Cross Party.

How To Visit Budapest’s Shoes On The Danube Memorial

The Shoes on the Danube Memorial is free and open to the public, but if you want to hear the story behind the shoes and the history of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, there are plenty of tours available. Not every Jewish Quarter tour stops by the memorial, so check with tour operators before booking.

The Budapest Grand Walk is a phenomenal way to catch the most famous sights in the city, including the Shoes on the Danube Memorial. As its name implies, the tour involves plenty of walking, and you should plan to devote the better part of your day to the tour. Alternately, bus tours are available and are a good option for those who would prefer to do less walking.

You can also see the memorial on your own. Tram Line 2 runs right down the Pest side of the Danube. This line passes the Hungarian Parliament, and the memorial is nearby.

Note that although the area is relatively safe, petty crimes of opportunity are somewhat common in Budapest. Many thieves strike on public transportation, so keep your bag in front of you at all times and avoid tucking cash into back pockets where it can be stolen. Think twice about bringing your passport, and leave some of your bank cards at the hotel.

Apps like Smart City and Maps.me give you access to public transportation schedules and city maps offline and are a great way to keep oriented even when you don’t have Wi-Fi, so download them before heading out!

The Little Princess statue on the Danube. — Nataliya Nazarova / Shutterstock

Other Notable Sights Around The Shoes On The Danube

The Danube promenade has a plethora of historic and fascinating attractions, so you can make the most of your time on the Pest side of the river. The area right around the memorial is bursting with amazing cafes and shops. Stroll between the Szechenyi Chain and Elizabeth Bridges to browse for unique souvenirs, get an afternoon pick-me-up, and pay a visit to the Little Princess statue perched on the Danube River promenade railing.

The Hungarian Parliament building, located right behind the memorial, offers a captivating glimpse into Hungarian politics. Hours and ticket prices vary, with special pricing for children. The Hungarian Parliament is able to accommodate guests with mobility concerns as well as visually impaired visitors.

The Inner-City Mother Church of the Blessed Virgin is another fantastic slice of Hungarian history. Its legacy spans nearly 2,000 years, and it shares space with an ancient Roman site known as the Contra Aquincum. You can visit both of these significant sites right off the Elizabeth Bridge.

Vigado, a celebration of neoclassical architecture, is one of Budapest’s most cherished concert halls. Its lavish halls and chambers were once filled with the original music of Franz Liszt, Johann Strauss, and Ferenc Erkel. You can attend a world-class concert or take a guided tour of Vigado’s spectacular architecture.

The Shoes on the Danube is a sobering memento of a terrible time in Hungarian and global history. It’s also a moving and special tribute, and a loving, humanizing reminder of the Arrow Cross’s victims. The Shoes on the Danube is a wonderful place to slow down and pay your respects if you find yourself in Hungary’s capital.

What else can you do in Budapest? Consider these nine amazing things.

6 Places To See Sloths In The Wild

Few experiences can compare to seeing wild animals in their natural habitats. That’s especially true when we’re talking about sloths. Yes, they’re adorable, but when you’ve seen them hanging from trees and swimming across lakes, you’ll gain a new appreciation for these arboreal mammals.

While sloths live throughout Central and South America, they’re easiest to find in Peru and Costa Rica. Here’s a look at a few unique destinations where you can see sloths in the wild.

A sloth in Costa Rica. — Nacho Such / Shutterstock

1. Rincon De La Vieja, Costa Rica

Rincon de la Vieja literally translates to “the old woman’s corner.” That’s a reference to a legend about a woman whose lover was thrown into Rincon de la Vieja — an active volcano — by her father.

Legends aside, Rincon de la Vieja is a dry tropical forest, so if you don’t do well with humidity, this is one of your better sloth-spotting options. And Rincon de la Vieja National Park features miniature geysers, sulfurous hot springs, and volcanic mud pits, which aren’t exactly the sights you’d expect to see in Costa Rica.

Because the climate is dry, the area isn’t quite as biodiverse as a rainforest, but you’ll still see an astounding variety of animals including two-toed sloths living in the park. Spring for a guided tour, as sloths can be difficult to see with untrained eyes.

2. Bijagua Ranas, Costa Rica

If you’re hoping to see sloths and you’re not especially concerned about seeing other wildlife, you can’t do much better than Bijagua Ranas. This privately owned property is located between the provinces of Alajuela and Guanacaste, near Tenorio National Park; it’s bordered on both sides by a river, so it’s sometimes mistakenly referred to as an island.

This little area has an enormous population of three-toed sloths in its treetops. The animals are completely wild, but Bijagua Ranas is protected from human development, and, for some reason, sloths have flourished here. You might also see red-eyed tree frogs, bats, and other wildlife, but the sloths are the real draw for tourists.

A slot in Costa Rica. — NaturesMomentsuk / Shutterstock

3. La Fortuna, Costa Rica

If you’re not willing to go deep into the rainforest, La Fortuna is one of the most accommodating places to see wild sloths (and if you are willing to don some serious hiking gear, don’t worry, we’ll get to a few options in a moment). Located northwest of San Jose, La Fortuna is a small town with gorgeous views of two volcanoes: Arenal, which is active, and Chato, which is dormant.

It’s also home to Bogarin Trail, a private urban park with 1.24 miles of walking trails. Take a guided tour, and you’ll stand a decent chance of seeing both two- and three-fingered sloths along with basilisks, snakes, toucans, and various other wild animals. This is one of the least “remote” options on this list, as you’ll still be able to hear the sounds from the city while taking your tour, but it’s a convenient way to see sloths without sacrificing many creature comforts (no pun intended).

4. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

Monteverde is a small town about three hours from San Jose, and it offers some of the world’s most breathtaking views of cloud forests, a type of high-altitude rainforest with a thin layer of clouds just below the canopy line. These humid areas offer unbelievable photo opportunities, particularly if you’re able to experience them from the canopy — and that’s certainly an option at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

To see wild sloths, you’ll probably want to book a guided night tour. If you’re especially lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the resplendent quetzal, a gorgeous migratory bird with elegant tail feathers.

A sloth in Peru. — Terri Butler Photography / Shutterstock

5. Tambopata National Reserve, Peru

Located in the Peruvian Amazon between Cuzco and the Bolivian border, Tambopata National Reserve has numerous jungle lodges offering overnight accommodations for tourists. Some of the reserves offers treetop walks, so if you’ve ever wanted to traverse canopy walkways high above the rainforest floor, you’re in luck. If you’re set on seeing an elusive two-toed sloth, consider booking a jungle nightwalk with an experienced guide.

While Tambopata is open year round, your best bet is to visit during the dry season from May to October, as rain could thwart or damper your sloth-spotting efforts.

6. Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, Peru

Pacaya-Samiria is near Iquitos, the hub of the Peruvian rainforest and one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. It also has a wet season (December through March), but this can work to your advantage, as rising waters often mean more animal diversity on dry land. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll have a decent chance of catching a few brown-throated sloths, along with pink river dolphins, squirrel monkeys, river turtles, and jaguars.

A quick note: When traveling to any part of the rainforest, make sure you’re adequately prepared. Bring raincoats, loose clothes, sunscreen, binoculars, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water. Talk to your doctor when preparing for your trip; many travelers choose to get yellow fever vaccinations, for instance, and antimalarial medication may be appropriate for some travelers.

With that said, a properly planned trip to a tropical destination can be a life-changing experience, and there’s simply no other way to see wild sloths in their natural habitat. If you’re willing to put in some legwork, this is a totally achievable bucket-list item — provided that you don’t have a sloth-like work ethic!

Going to see sloths? Here’s how to plan the perfect Costa Rica vacation, plus the best eco-lodges in Costa Rica.

9 Fantastic Day Trips From Milwaukee

Wisconsin’s largest city provides a lot for both visitors and locals to enjoy. From its lovely lakeside location and brewing history to its world-renowned museums and quirky festivals, Milwaukee does not disappoint. But as exciting as the city itself is, it’s also a great home base for exploring the surrounding area.

Here are some of the best day trips from Milwaukee. They’re sure to make your time in the Midwest extra special!

The coastline of Lake Michigan in Door County. — max voran / Shutterstock

1. Door County, Wisconsin

Known as the Cape Cod of the Midwest, Wisconsin’s Door County is an excellent day destination from the Brew City. This peninsula juts out into Lake Michigan and Green Bay (the body of water, not the city). The county is the largest by size in the entire state and is home to a number of charming communities, including Ephraim, Sister Bay, Baileys Harbor, Sturgeon Bay, Egg Harbor, and Fish Creek.

There is so much to do in Door County that one could easily spend days there, so for day-tripping purposes, I suggest picking one community or area and exploring it fully. That could mean shopping and eating in Fish Creek, taking the ferry to Washington Island, or seeing the famous cows on the roof at Al Johnson’s in Sister Bay. Other fun activities include hiking at Peninsula State Park, taking the farm tour offered by the Door County Creamery, or trying out the numerous area breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries. Dive bar connoisseurs will love The Blue Ox on the quiet side of the peninsula, the southeastern Lake Michigan side; it opened in the 1800s as a general store and is now a kitschy watering hole. Door County is also known for its iconic cherries, and day-trippers can try them in local baked goods or consider a pick-your-own-cherries experience.

The gateway to Door County and the county seat of Sturgeon Bay is a little over 2 hours away from Milwaukee by car. The other towns along the peninsula are farther, so plan accordingly for the best day-trip experience.

The skyline of Chicago, Illinois. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

2. Chicago, Illinois

The Midwest’s largest city is just an hour and a half by train or car from Milwaukee. Amtrak offers service seven times a day, and since Chicago is famous for its traffic, I suggest taking the train. You’ll save money on parking, avoid the traffic, and get there faster than you would by bus, which can take 2 hours or more. Once you’ve arrived in the city, the public transit is easy to navigate, the city is quite walkable, and ride-share options abound for those who prefer a lift.

Chicago is home to amazing upscale shopping, museums, and attractions; a famous dining scene; and so much more. For a classic Chicago experience, travelers should plan to try deep-dish pizza, see the Bean in Millennium Park, and enjoy the architecture boat tour of the city. Other fun attractions include the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Field Museum of Natural History.

It’s clear that the Windy City delivers maximum day-trip potential for those starting in Milwaukee.

3. Kohler, Wisconsin

For a charming village vibe, Kohler, Wisconsin, provides a fun day-trip experience. Plus, it’s just an hour from Milwaukee. Visitors interested in design will love the Kohler Design Center, open for daily tours during the week. There’s even a museum in the center! For those seeking to relax, Kohler is home to the renowned Kohler Waters Spa; this is one of fewer than 70 five-star spas found worldwide. The town is also known for its numerous championship golf courses. Additionally, travelers could try Kohler’s Blind Horse Restaurant & Winery, which bills itself as a Napa-style establishment.

Aerial view of Sheboygan, Wisconsin. — Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

4. Sheboygan, Wisconsin

This option is a perfect add-on to a Kohler day trip, since it’s just 10 minutes away from the village and an hour’s drive from Milwaukee. Sheboygan, Wisconsin, sits on Lake Michigan’s stunning western shore and boasts a pretty lighthouse plus waterfront activities like kayaking, fishing, and even surfing. Visitors of all ages will love the shipwreck on the lakefront and the area’s whimsical Bookworm Gardens. Sheboygan is a dairy hot spot, too — it’s home to the Sargento headquarters as well as the Old World Creamery. To sample some incredible cheese, check out these cheese shops in Sheboygan County.

If you’d prefer not to drive, you can take the train, but the trip will take up to 2 hours.

5. Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Also located in Sheboygan County is the charming town of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, near the Kettle Moraine State Forest and the Ice Age Trail. Great eateries like the bistro-style Lake Street Café and the inventive Paddock Club make this an especially tasty destination. To get more hands-on with food, home chefs and newbies alike can visit the cooking school at the Osthoff Resort. Racing enthusiasts and history buffs can check out Road America, a famous European-style track in the area; go-karts and ATVs are available there when a race isn’t occurring. During warm weather, visitors can also enjoy lake offerings like water sports, fishing, swimming, and more. The lake is one of the deepest in the state and is known for its unbelievable turquoise spring-fed water.

Elkhart Lake is about an hour and 15 minutes from Milwaukee proper by car, which is the best option to get there.

A boat on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. — Visit Lake Geneva

6. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Another lovely resort town, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, is a sure winner located just an hour southwest of Milwaukee. What is unique about this area is the 26-mile path that loops around the lake. Known as the Lake Geneva Shore Path, the trail offers pretty water views and is adjacent to some unbelievable mansions. The city’s tourism bureau recommends starting at the Lake Geneva Library and heading out in either direction for about a mile. This section of the shore path is paved, level, and easy to navigate. Lake Geneva is also home to numerous ice cream shops and tasty restaurants, including Sprecher’s Restaurant & Pub with its famous root beer. For those interested in fun high in the sky, zip-line tours are another popular activity.

Downtown Madison, Wisconsin. — Andrew Jalbert / Shutterstock

7. Madison, Wisconsin

The capital of Wisconsin, Madison, is located just an hour and a half west of Milwaukee by car. Day-trippers should make time to explore the beautiful campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, tour the Capitol building, and check out the famous farmers market. Summertime visitors should visit the sixth-floor museum and observation deck at the Capitol, which are only open during the warm-weather season. Madison is also known for its many festivals, so check the city’s calendar for any that might interest you. Food tours, breweries, distilleries, and wineries can also be found in the capital city.

Aerial view of Green Bay, Wisconsin. — Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

8. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Packers fans will especially enjoy Green Bay, Wisconsin, located less than 2 hours from Milwaukee by car. The city offers numerous activities perfect for a day trip, like the Green Bay Botanical Garden, the National Railroad Museum, and Lambeau Field. Day-trippers who want to see the stadium should also be sure to stop at the adjacent Hinterland Brewery and Restaurant in the Titletown District. Besides offering handcrafted local beers, this spot has an excellent and underrated charcuterie tray. Those interested in touring the brewing operation must visit on a Saturday afternoon.

Green Bay would be an excellent stop on the way to Door County; after all, the city is just a 45-minute drive from the heart of the peninsula.

Aerial view of the Wisconsin Dells. — Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

9. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Another fun day-trip opportunity from Milwaukee is the Wisconsin Dells area. Known as the water-park capital of the world, the Dells are located in southern Wisconsin less than 2 hours from Milwaukee by car. One great spot to visit is Noah’s Ark Water Park, the largest in the country, which features more than 50 waterslides. A family-friendly eatery there is Moosejaw Pizza, which also houses the Dells Brewing Company. The staff provides free antler headbands to all visitors for lots of family fun. Those interested in outdoor activities should consider the ropes course, zip-lining, horseback riding, or the signature Duck boat tours.

The Dells area would be a great stop on the way to Madison.

As you can see, there are countless wonderful day-trip opportunities from the Milwaukee area. These are just a few of the many excursions available.

5 Great National Parks Near Phoenix To Visit In The Winter

Phoenix is the perfect winter destination, with its clear blue skies and moderate temperatures. It’s no wonder visitors flock to the city, many of them to stay the whole winter. Affectionately nicknamed snowbirds, many retirees even move to Greater Phoenix, part of the Valley of the Sun, to get away from the freezing temperatures, snow, and ice of their hometowns.

Getting away from the cold need not mean sitting in one place, though. While Greater Phoenix itself has plenty to offer, with world-class museums and desert trails in town, the city is also surrounded by national parks worth a visit. And I am not just talking about the Grand Canyon. Everyone who visits Arizona will take a trip to see this wonder of the world. But much closer to Phoenix, lesser-known national parks offer great day trips without subjecting the adventurous to colder temperatures or long drives.

These National Parks are all within two hours driving distance from Phoenix. They showcase high and low desert environments and boast perfect weather in the winter. These are the parks that you would avoid in the heat of the summer, but as temperatures get cooler, being outdoors in these spots becomes a joy. You might even see desert flowers dotting the landscape of one of the greenest deserts in the world (when you visit in winter, you’ll notice this). Whether you choose to visit significant archeological sites or enjoy unspoiled Arizona nature, these parks offer the best of both experiences all winter long.

The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument in Arizona. — Jeffrey M. Frank / Shutterstock

1. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

About an hour’s drive from Phoenix, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument makes a great day trip from the city, giving its visitors a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the Sonoran desert.

Built by the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People sometime around 1300 A.D., the site features the largest prehistoric structures built in the Southwest: Casa Grande, or Big House, which the site is named for. The oral history of the O’Odham people, the modern-day descendants of those who built these structures, confirms that Casa Grande was a ceremonial center. Built at the crossroads of an intensive system of irrigation canals, it also served as a trading center for the surrounding ancient villages.

You can learn all about the history of these ancient people and their way of life in this hostile environment by visiting the indoor museum at the visitor center. Then walk outside and follow the trail through a few smaller structures and visit the highlight of the site, the Great House, Sivan Vah’Ki.

The self-guided tour is a short, easy walk around the ruins. But in the winter, from November to April, you can join an hour-long guided tour led by a park ranger. Though you can’t enter the Great House even with the tour due to safety precautions, you’ll learn a lot about the area and its history. Before leaving, don’t forget to walk over to the Ball Court on the other side of the parking lot.

The Montezuma Castle National Monument in Arizona. — Pamela Au / Shutterstock

2. Montezuma Castle National Monument And Montezuma Well

About a 1.5-hour drive from Phoenix, Montezuma Castle National Monument has nothing to do with the Montezuma most of us are familiar with. Its name is a misnomer. Its first Western visitors, who could not imagine anyone other than the legendary Aztec king building such a “castle,” called it Montezuma. But the site is neither a castle nor the ancient home of a king.

One of the best-preserved in the Southwest, featuring 20 rooms, the five-story cliff dwelling was actually home to an entire village of indigenous people. Called Sinagua by the Spanish, (which means “without water”) these people lived and built a civilization in this harsh environment. Although no natural river was flowing at the site, the Sinagua weren’t actually without water. Instead, they built a canal around the site to bring in enough water for the village.

The short, paved interpretive trail takes visitors to the monument on a winding path to the cliff dwelling and the canal, which is shaded by mature sycamore trees. A winter visit offers not only pleasant weather but also a chance to see water flowing through the ancient canal.

About a 20-minute drive from Montezuma Castle, Montezuma Well is an oasis — a geological marvel of the desert. The sinkhole, created over 10,000 years ago, looks like a huge bowl filled with water. A short trail from the ranger station leads to the well. If you’re up for some stairs, you can also take the side trails off the main loop closer to the water.

The Tuzigoot National Monument in Arizona. — mcrvlife / Shutterstock

3. Tuzigoot National Monument

About two hours from Phoenix, Tuzigoot National Monument is a perfect winter day-trip destination. Hot and exposed in the summer, the pleasant temperatures in the winter help visitors enjoy this ancient pueblo sitting on a hilltop in the high deserts of Arizona.

The ancient village, built and inhabited by the same Sinagua people of Montezuma Castle, was a farming community, housing around 250 people at one time. With the oldest structure dating from 1000 A.D., the site features 97 ground-level rooms.

The museum showcases artifacts excavated at the site in the 1930s. Start your visit there to learn about the people who built these structures and lived here thousands of years ago. Then follow the paved interpretive trail through Tuzigoot Pueblo and Tavasci Marsh.

If you visit Tuzigoot and Montezuma Castle in November, you’ll also have an opportunity to witness indigenous cultural events. Native American Heritage Month is celebrated at both sites as they host cultural events and indigenous arts and crafts shows each weekend of the month.

Visiting Tuzigoot or Montezuma Well during the winter months — between September and May — also offers opportunities for bird walks led by park rangers and interpreters for those interested.

Tonto National Monument in Arizona. — Zack Frank / Shutterstock

4. Tonto National Monument

About two hours from Phoenix, Tonto National Monument showcases two Salado cliff dwellings in the Sonoran Desert. Tonto’s inhabitants were a mixed people who archaeologists now refer to as the Salado.

Around 700 A.D., the Sonoran Desert people from around Phoenix settled here and mixed with the local population. Later, between 1100 and 1150 A.D., the Ancestral Puebloans and Mogollon people migrated and also settled here. The result was a cultural melting pot of several thousand people that led to a distinct culture.

The Salado built the two dwellings of Tonto overlooking the Rio Salado (and, now, Roosevelt Lake) around 1300 A.D. For the next half a century, their agricultural community thrived there, but as the climate became arid by the end of the 1300s, life became increasingly difficult, and the Salado left by 1450.

Start your visit at the monument’s newly remodeled museum, which showcases artifacts from the site. Then take the self-guided tour of the Lower Cliff Dwelling. The 1.5-mile trail is paved, but steep, and it takes about one hour round-trip. To visit the Upper Cliff Dwellings, you need to join a guided tour, offered in the winter season from January to April.

Saguaro National Park in Arizona. — Galyna Andrushko / Shutterstock

5. Saguaro National Park

Showcasing the nation’s largest cactus, the symbol of the American West, Saguaro National Park is a two-hour drive from Phoenix, right by the city of Tucson. With temperatures ranging in the 70s and 80s, winter is the perfect time to visit this desert park and enjoy walks among the giant cacti. With over 150 miles of designated trails, you can find one to hike no matter your fitness level.

Separated by the city of Tucson, Saguaro National Park has two districts, Saguaro East and West.

The East or Rincon Mountains District offers a scenic drive called the Cactus Forest Loop Drive, which offers amazing views of the Rincon Mountains. Take the short one-mile loop hike along the Freeman Homestead Interpretive Trail to an old homestead foundation and wander among a grove of large saguaros and a cool desert wash — a seasonal dry riverbed. During heavy rainstorms, water flows through desert washes, often turning them into fast and relatively deep rivers. But as soon as the rain stops, the water dries up. A few days later, the only sign of there ever having been water in a wash is the area’s vegetation, which is greener than its surroundings.

If you are there at the right time, you might see great horned owls along this trail. If you’re up for a slightly longer hike, take the Hope Camp and Ridgeview Trail. At two miles long and 400 feet elevation, it’s still relatively easy to hike. Panoramic views of Rincon Peak and the surrounding saguaro-filled desert reward you for your effort. Wildflowers might add to the view in late November or February through March, and after a rainy day, you’ll see quite a few waterfalls along the trail.

The West or Red Hills Tucson Mountain District has its own separate visitor center that offers a great orientation program that presents the Native American perspective of the giant saguaro. One of the easiest hikes on this side, the Valley View Overlook Trail, starts at the Bajada Loop and offers views of the Avra Valley and distant mountains. The Signal Hill Picnic Area offers views of hundreds of ancient petroglyphs.

If you hike in the desert at any of these sites, remember to carry water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen. Even if the weather seems perfect, with temperatures in the mid to high 70s, you are still in the dry desert, where it’s easy to get dehydrated and the sun is strong even in the winter.

Planning an Arizona getaway? In addition to penciling in your national park visits, here’s how to spend a day in Mesa.

8 Excellent Hidden Gems In New Jersey

New Jersey is always a surprise. It’s part metropolitan area, part farmland, part oceanfront getaway, and part Appalachian Mountains. Those features are usually associated with other states, but all are found in New Jersey. The state is a little bit of New York and a little bit of Pennsylvania. There are places in New Jersey where you’d swear you’re in Vermont — and then places where you’d swear you’re in South Carolina.

But when New Jersey comes to mind, people generally think of two things: an extension of New York City just across the Hudson River, from Newark to Hackensack, and the beach getaways like Atlantic City, forever popular with residents of New York City. But New Jersey is much more than that.

Here are eight hidden gems in the Garden State.

A ride at Jenkinson's Boardwalk family amusement facility along the New Jersey shore. — splask / Shutterstock.com

1. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

You’re undoubtedly familiar with the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, but that’s not the only boardwalk in New Jersey. North of Atlantic City, in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, you’ll find Jenkinson’s Boardwalk.

One one side of the boardwalk is Point Pleasant Beach, with sand stretching as far as you can see. On the opposite side is every single thing you might associate with a New Jersey beachside boardwalk: an arcade, mini golf, an amusement park, ice cream stands, pizza joints, and the beloved Jenkinson’s Sweet Shop.

Nothing says summer in New Jersey like grabbing an ice cream cone and walking the boardwalk next to the beach while listening to the sounds of the amusement park. If you have time, stop and check out the aquarium or the Jenks Inlet Bar & Restaurant.

2. Gilchrist Downbeach

If you’ve ever been to Atlantic City, you know that the pancake houses are quite busy in the morning, even during the off-season. One of the more popular pancake spots is Gilchrist Restaurant. There are four locations, and the Gardner’s Basin and Tropicana locations always seem to be busy. But many aren’t aware of the Gilchrist Downbeach location.

Located only 4 miles down the beach from the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Gilchrist Downbeach is a great place to enjoy your breakfast and (perhaps) escape the crowd. Heading there from the heart of Atlantic City, Monopoly players will certainly recognize the names. You’ll drive down Ventnor Avenue through Marven Gardens (the inspiration for the game’s Marvin Gardens) to get to Gilchrist Downbeach.

What to order? The world-famous pancakes, of course. If you’re a blueberry person, try the blueberry pancakes, but if not, the standard hotcakes are just fine. Perhaps the most popular item is the Hungry Man Combo: two eggs, two hotcakes, and your choice of meat.

The Veterans Memorial at High Point State Park. — State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

3. High Point State Park

New Jersey isn’t usually associated with mountains. But the northwestern portion of the state is a part of the Appalachian range. The highest point in New Jersey — aptly named High Point — is located there in the Kittatinny Mountains.

Surrounding High Point is High Point State Park. And at the peak sits the High Point Veterans Memorial, a 220-foot spire with the single best view in New Jersey. You don’t have to climb the stairs of the spire to appreciate the great views — the top of High Point provides plenty.

In-state vehicles pay $10 to enter the park, while out-of-state vehicles pay $20. The views are worth the money, though — you won’t believe you’re in New Jersey.

4. The Cape May-Lewes Ferry

At the very southern tip of New Jersey is the town of Cape May. It sits at the mouth of the Delaware River, which narrows as it extends up to Philadelphia and beyond. But at Cape May, the distance across is only 17 miles, and that makes for an excellent ferry ride.

If you’re visiting New Jersey and are interested in a day trip, taking the Cape May-Lewes Ferry across to Delaware and back is an excellent one. There’s much to see and do in beachside Delaware, but when I was visiting the area, the ferry ride across the Delaware River was perhaps my favorite part.

And no, this isn’t the spot where George Washington famously crossed the Delaware. That was north of Cape May, near Trenton, New Jersey. Cape May is right on the Atlantic Ocean, so you’ll be crossing the mouth of the Delaware where the river meets the ocean.

Dinner from The Pub in Camden. — The Pub

5. The Pub

You’re visiting the Garden State, so you’ll want to do something quintessentially New Jersey. Visit The Pub in Camden, New Jersey, to be transported back to the 1950s. The tables, the carpet, the decor, and even the old sign outside will take you back to a time when a Saturday night at a restaurant like The Pub was the high point of the weekend. Close your eyes, and you’ll be able to picture the lounge singer in the corner.

But the nostalgia isn’t the only thing to love about the restaurant. The Pub is also known for its food. The dining room is massive (again, think 1950s New Jersey on a Saturday night), seating up to 500 guests. And the food is excellent, from the famous zucchini bread brought to each table to the steaks and seafood. The steak is perhaps the most popular dish here, especially the filet mignon, but for something different try the “sea-kebab,” a shish kebab featuring shrimp, scallops, and lobster instead of the traditional beef and chicken.

View from the State Line Lookout. — Jim Bogosian / Shutterstock

6. The State Line Lookout

The Hudson River Valley is a photographer’s dream. And while many think of the Hudson River Valley as being a New York thing, parts of the valley are located in New Jersey on one side and New York on the other. This area is known as The Palisades, and perhaps the best place to visit is the State Line Lookout near the New Jersey-New York state line.

The State Line Lookout is located on a portion of the cliff above the Hudson River that juts out into the valley. The views are unobstructed to the north, east, and south. Squint, and you’ll be able to see the New York City skyline with the George Washington Bridge in the foreground. To the north, you’ll see the new Tappan Zee Bridge spanning the Hudson. To the east, you’ll see Yonkers, Mount Vernon, and New Rochelle in New York.

While you’re at the lookout, stop at the State Line Café for a meal or perhaps walk one of the trails in Palisades Park. Otherwise, just drive along Hudson Drive and enjoy the incredible views of the beginnings of the Hudson Valley.

The Empty Sky Memorial in New Jersey. — Oliver Foerstner / Shutterstock

7. The Empty Sky Memorial

Since opening in 2014, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum has become one of the most-visited locations in New York City. But many aren’t aware of another memorial just across the river in New Jersey — the Empty Sky Memorial in Liberty State Park.

Liberty State Park is located just across the Hudson River from the Manhattan skyline. And, as its name suggests, it is very near the Statue of Liberty out in Hudson Bay. In the northeastern corner of Liberty State Park is the Empty Sky Memorial, which commemorates the 746 New Jerseyans who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

It’s a simple yet powerful memorial. Two large stainless steel walls with the names of the people who lost their lives frame the sky where the towers once stood. As you enter the memorial, look across the Hudson, and you’ll see the exact spot where the buildings once were. It’s a poignant reminder of all that was lost on that fateful day.

The Grand Cascades Lodge at sunset. — Crystal Springs Resort

8. Grand Cascades Lodge

In the northern part of New Jersey — the mountainous area — is the Grand Cascades Lodge. Part of the Crystal Springs Resort, the lodge is perhaps the most luxurious place to stay in the entire region.

Planning a getaway with friends? The Grand Cascades Lodge is your spot. The town of Warwick, New York, is nearby, with shops, restaurants, and wineries. But you could have a wonderful time just staying at the Crystal Springs Resort and enjoying the golf course, the spa, and the restaurants.

Perhaps the best time to visit this region (and the lodge) is in the fall. The lodge can put together a harvest-themed package for you featuring orchards, pumpkin patches, farmers markets, cider houses, wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Relax at the end of the day at the luxurious resort located in the mountains of New Jersey — yes, the mountains of New Jersey!