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8 Fantastic Day Trips From San Antonio, Texas

8 Fantastic Day Trips From San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is the land of hearty Tex-Mex food, Spanish Missions, the colorful River Walk, and big Texas experiences. The vibrant, historic city offers a multitude of things to see and do, including breweries, a rising arts district, and plenty of shopping. But sometimes it’s nice to leave the familiar streets in the rearview mirror in exchange for the open road and a sense of adventure.

The Lone Star State boasts several big cities and plenty of beautiful open spaces between them. Why not venture out to enjoy live music in Austin, learn about our galaxy in Houston, or return to nature at one of Texas’s state parks?

Here are eight of the best day trips from San Antonio.

Main Street in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Moab Republic / Shutterstock

1. Fredericksburg, Texas

The Texas Hill Country’s green pastures and aromatic merlot should be reason enough to make the hour-long drive to Fredericksburg, Texas. If not, the town’s proud German heritage certainly is! More than 160 years ago, German settlers arrived in Fredericksburg. Many elements of the group’s culture are still preserved there, including their historic homes and buildings and their delicious traditional food.

With more than 55 wineries, Fredericksburg is also one of the best and closest wine countries to San Antonio. You can opt to drive from vineyard to vineyard or walk from tasting room to tasting room on Fredericksburg’s Main Street. Be sure not to miss Fat Ass Ranch & Winery and its unique wine flavors, including country peach, apple pie, and prickly pear-jalapeño-raspberry.

Just 25 minutes from Fredericksburg is the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a nature lover’s paradise. The large pink granite rock provides 11 miles of trails, including a less-than-a-mile hike to the summit that offers gorgeous views of Central Texas. To see everything that the park has to offer, consider hiking the 4.5-mile trail around the perimeter.

The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

Mike Brake / Shutterstock

2. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Stonewall, Texas

The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 26th president of the United States. President Lyndon B. Johnson spent most of his life in this part of Texas, and he is buried on the property in the Johnson family cemetery.

You can learn how Johnson’s early life influenced his political career by visiting the rural home in which he grew up. You can also visit the nearby museum and LBJ Ranch, also known as the Texas White House. Johnson regularly retreated from the nation’s capital to the peace and quiet of the Texas countryside. Unfortunately, the Texas White House is currently closed due to structural risks; however, the drive that runs through the area is still open.

Aerial view of Austin, Texas.

Roschetzky Photography / Shutterstock

3. Austin, Texas

Home to just under a million residents, the lively city of Austin is rapidly growing due to its reputation for creative expression and its fantastic culinary scene. About an hour and a half from San Antonio, the state’s capital is brimming with things to see and do.

The first stop for foodies — and especially barbecue lovers — should be the iconic Franklin Barbecue. Make sure to jump in line — the wait sometimes takes up to 2 hours — for a taste of some of the best barbecue in the nation. The restaurant usually sells out, so be sure to arrive before it opens at 11 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

After you’ve had your fill of Texas barbecue, visit the beautiful State Capitol for a free guided tour of the building plus an overview of Texas political history (Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Or you could wander down trendy South Congress Street, take a photo in front of the famous “I love you so much” mural, savor a scoop from Amy’s Ice Cream, or grab a pair of cowboy boots at Allens.

In the evening, head to Mount Bonnell to watch the sunset before popping into one of the city’s 250 music venues that offer everything from jazz to country.

The Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs.

Brett K / Shutterstock

4. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs, Texas

You can head over to the Hamilton Pool Preserve from Austin or make a separate day trip to this spectacular watering hole. About 2 hours from San Antonio, the 232-acre preserve is well worth the trek.

Visit during the winter to hike the trails and view the year-round waterfall spilling into the pool from 50 feet overhead. It’s equally beautiful during the summer, when the weather is hot and the water is cold. The collapsed grotto’s rocky overhang provides plenty of cool shade.

Due to the pool’s popularity, Travis County has established a reservation system. Make sure to reserve a time slot so that you won’t be turned away at the gate. You can enjoy the preserve between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. or between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and you must pay $15 in cash at the entrance or $11 by credit card online.

The Magnolia Market at the Silos in Waco.

LunaseeStudios / Shutterstock

5. Waco, Texas

HGTV fans shouldn’t pass up an opportunity to visit Waco, Texas. Due to the popular show Fixer Upper featuring Chip and Joanna Gaines, Waco has become a major Texas tourist destination. The Magnolia Market at the Silos, the couple’s company headquarters, is a perfect spot for a family lunch, lawn games, and shopping for home decor.

If the Magnolia Market isn’t your aesthetic, be assured that Waco offers plenty more to do. The town is home to the beautiful Baylor University, the prehistoric Waco Mammoth National Monument, and the popular Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. You could easily spend a day learning about Ice Age fossils and the oldest law enforcement agents in the country (sorry, not Chuck Norris!) before making the 3-hour drive back to San Antonio.

Downtown Lockhart, Texas.

Philip Arno Photography / Shutterstock

6. Lockhart State Park, Lockhart, Texas

Just over an hour outside of San Antonio, Lockhart State Park is a popular place for weekend day excursions. You’ll need to pay $3 to enter. A lush and quiet retreat from the high energy of the city, Lockhart State Park provides opportunities to hike and view local wildlife such as deer, opossums, armadillos, beavers, and turkeys. After your stroll, go swimming or rent fishing equipment and stop by the creek. Sunfish, catfish, and bass are the fish you’ll most likely find in Clear Fork Creek. Plus, you don’t need a license to fish!

Another of the park’s attractions is its nine-hole golf course ($11). Grab a few friends or your partner in crime and enjoy a day on the green. Afterward, head to Lockhart, the barbecue capital of Texas, for some tangy barbecue.

If you want to stay longer than a day, overnight stays at the Lockhart State Park campsite cost $20 to $24 per night.

Aerial view of Houston, Texas.

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

7. Houston, Texas

In all honesty, Houston deserves more than just a day trip due to its size. However, even a day will provide a taste of everything the fourth-largest city in the United States has to offer.

Some of the city’s downtown attractions include the 500,000-gallon Aquarium; Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros; and the stunning Houston Waterwall Park.

If you only have time to do one thing, however, make it Space Center Houston. Dedicated to space education, the center provides a comprehensive look at the past, present, and future of space exploration. Here, you can touch a genuine moon rock, tour a space shuttle, and — if you’re lucky — meet real astronauts. You can easily spend 3 to 4 hours perusing the many exhibits.

After an afternoon of sightseeing, head over to one of the city’s many barbecue or Tex-Mex joints before making the 3-hour drive back to San Antonio. Rudy’s Texas Bar-B-Q and Hugo’s Restaurant are local favorites.

Skyline of Corpus Christi, Texas.

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

8. Corpus Christi, Texas

Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi, Texas, is about a 2-hour drive from San Antonio. As one of the closest beach towns to the Alamo City, it’s the perfect oceanside getaway for locals and visitors alike.

In addition to the beach, one of the city’s most popular attractions is the Texas State Aquarium. It’s home to more than 460 species, and you’ll learn about coral reefs, dolphins, sharks, and stingrays, among other creatures. The aquarium helps to protect the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles that are native to the Gulf of Mexico.

You can also tour the USS Lexington, known for its participation in World War II battles. The ship features an onboard museum, a 3-D theater, an escape room, a flight simulator, and a café. Several tours, including a self-guided tour, cover the ship’s history and significance.

8 Must-See Things At London’s Kew Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, known simply as Kew Gardens, is located in Richmond, a suburban town in southwestern London. The garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dates to the 18th century, when it was established on the grounds of a royal palace.

Today, the garden is a globally renowned scientific institution for plant and fungal research. The original 9-acre area has expanded to include 300 acres containing more than 50,000 living plants. With its Victorian glasshouses, arboretum, and artwork, there is a lot to see.

Here are eight of the garden’s attractions that no visitor should miss.

The Great Pagoda at Kew Gardens.

Jeff Eden / RBG Kew

1. The Great Pagoda

The Great Pagoda was completed in 1762 as a gift for Princess Augusta, who founded Kew Gardens. When it was constructed, 80 dragons carved from gilded wood adorned the roofs of its 10 floors. The dragons were removed in 1784. There were rumors that they were sold to pay King George IV’s gambling debts, but it is more likely that they simply rotted over time. The Great Pagoda was restored in 2018, and the dragons are back. Eight of the first-floor dragons were produced in the traditional manner and hand-painted. The remaining 72 were 3-D printed in a robust polyimide material.

A circular staircase inside the pagoda allows visitors to climb to the top for spectacular views. There are a limited number of spaces available per time slot, and if you wish to climb the pagoda, you must pay an additional fee. There are 253 steps to the top.

If you choose not to climb to the top, you can look through the small room at the base of the pagoda at no additional cost. Here you’ll find information about the pagoda and its architect, Sir William Chambers. You’ll also find two automata. One shows the architect visiting Canton, China, where he studied pagodas. The other shows the royal family strolling through Kew Gardens. Handwheels at the bases of the automata allow you to control the moving parts.

The Japanese Landscape at Kew Gardens.

RBG Kew

2. The Japanese Landscape

Three garden areas make up the Japanese Landscape. The Garden of Peace, an area reminiscent of a traditional Japanese tea garden, features stone lanterns and a dripping water basin. Raked gravel and large rocks in the sloped Garden of Activity represent the movement of flowing water. The Garden of Harmony unites the two. All three combine to create a peaceful, manicured oasis.

At the center of the Japanese Landscape is the Chokushi-Mon, or Gateway of the Imperial Messenger. It was created for the Japan-British Exhibition of 1910 and is a replica of the Gate of Nishi Hongan-ji (Western Temple of the Original Vow) in Kyoto, Japan. Its finely carved wooden panels feature stylized flowers and animals that depict an ancient legend.

The Temperate House at Kew Gardens.

Gareth Gardner / RBG Kew

3. The Temperate House

The Temperate House, originally opened in 1863, is the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse. It has been an iconic landmark of Kew for more than 250 years. The Temperate House reopened in 2018 after a five-year renovation project. Filled with 10,000 individual plants, it is home to 1,500 species from Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, including some of the world’s rarest and most threatened temperate plants. All of the species require conditions above 50 degrees to survive.

Level pathways wind throughout the ground floor, and a balcony around the interior perimeter offers views from above. Note that the balcony is not wheelchair accessible.

The Treetop Walkway at Kew Gardens.

RBG Kew

4. The Treetop Walkway

You’ll find 14,000 trees in Kew Gardens. The Treetop Walkway provides an opportunity to get closer to those trees and offers views of the garden and the city beyond. Made of weathered steel that blends into the natural environment, the walkway stands 59 feet tall. It is 656 feet long and loops through the upper branches of beech, sweet chestnut, horse chestnut, and oak trees. The walkway offers a unique, ethereal perspective of nature. You’ll love watching bird and insect behavior at this height and hearing the breeze rustling the branches.

The 188 steps to the walkway are a manageable climb, since the steps are broken up into several flights and there’s a landing at the end of each flight. There is room on each landing to step out of the path of oncoming climbers to rest or simply take a few moments to admire the view. The walkway itself has chest-high railings, and several circular jut-outs along the way provide additional viewpoints. There is an elevator, but it was out of service on the day I visited. If you plan to use the elevator, check the Kew Gardens website for information about the elevator’s status. As I write this, the site says that the elevator is currently out of service.

There is no additional charge to access the Treetop Walkway. It closes an hour before the whole garden closes.

The Palm House at Kew Gardens.

Jeff Eden / RBG Kew

5. The Palm House

You can explore an indoor rainforest at the garden’s Palm House. The Palm House, which opened in 1848, was the first glasshouse to be built at Kew Gardens. Inside, you’ll find lush vegetation and dense, moist air. Many of the plants in the collection are endangered in the wild, and some are even extinct. Rainforest plants cover only 2 percent of the world’s surface but make up 50 percent of plant species. Look for the Madagascar periwinkle, now used to treat a number of different types of cancer; the rubber tree; the cocoa tree; and the cycads, or palm-like plants that were widespread more than 250 million years ago.

The Marianne North Gallery at Kew Gardens.

RBG Kew

6. The Marianne North Gallery

With all there is to see at Kew Gardens, you might easily miss the attractive red brick building housing the Marianne North Gallery. But don’t hesitate to take a look inside — the exquisite interior, which incorporates different kinds of wood and stenciled floor tile, is home to more than 800 works of botanical art.

Marianne North was a wealthy, single Victorian woman who traveled the world solo in pursuit of interesting plants to paint. She was unconventional and ventured to some of the most remote places in the world. After 13 years of travel, she decided that she wanted to exhibit her vivid, detailed paintings in Kew Gardens, where her passion for plants began. She offered to build the gallery if Kew would display her work in it. The gallery was constructed in 1882, and a restoration of the building was completed in 2008.

Inside the Princess Of Wales Conservatory at Kew Gardens.

RBG Kew

7. The Princess Of Wales Conservatory

The Princess of Wales Conservatory is the newest glasshouse at Kew Gardens. It opened in 1987, and its 10 computer-controlled climate zones showcase a variety of ecosystems. In the carnivorous plant zone, you’ll find predatory plants such as Venus flytraps and pitcher plants. There are cacti and succulents in the dry tropical zone, orchids and bromeliads in the steamy zones, and a giant water lily in the wet tropical zone.

The Hive at Kew Gardens.

Jeff Eden / RBG Kew

8. The Hive

The Hive, one of the most photographed spots in Kew Gardens, is an art installation located in the heart of a wildflower meadow. The 55-foot-tall structure depicts life inside a beehive. The mesh frame is constructed from 170,000 aluminum parts and 1,000 LED lights. The LED lights glow according to the vibrations of bees in the garden. You’ll hear the whirring of bees when you walk inside, as well as background music composed by musicians who improvised to a live feed of beehive sounds in the key of C.

There is something to see in every corner of Kew Gardens. Keep your eyes open as you walk from attraction to attraction. You’ll pass colorful border plantings, various styles of gardens, peaceful and majestic wooded areas, ornamental structures, and assorted garden art.

On the website, you’ll find more information on these and other attractions, as well as the park’s hours and fees. Note that the glasshouses close an hour before the garden closes.

London bound? Don’t miss these 10 free museums in the city. And when you’re ready for a break from the hustle and bustle, consider one of these eight amazing day trips from London.

Beyond Ike: 6 Other Great Things To See And Do In Abilene, Kansas

When most people hear Abilene, Kansas, they think of America’s 34th President, Dwight D. Eisenhower. It is a known fact that the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum are what many travel to Abilene for.

What most people don’t know is that Abilene is also home to several attractions that are not to be missed. Upon arriving in town, most guests quickly realize that they did not schedule enough time here. To avoid disappointment, plan to stay a minimum of one night in Abilene — and put these six attractions on your list of things to do.

The Historic Seelye Mansion and Gardens.

Sara Broers

1. Tour The Seelye Mansion And Gardens

When most visitors arrive in Abilene, they hop off of Kansas I-70 and travel south on Buckeye Street. Located a few blocks in at 1105 North Buckeye Avenue, the beautiful Seelye Mansion comes in to view. The 25-room Seelye Mansion was built in 1905 for Dr. A. B. Seelye, who made his fortune in patenting medicine with the A. B. Seelye Medical Company.

The most unique thing about touring this beautiful mansion is the fact that Terry, the current owner, is often your tour guide. In fact, he actually shared the home with Dr. Seelye’s daughters, Helen and Marion, for several years until they passed. This is the only historical home that I have toured where it has been okay to touch the furnishings. A highlight of the tour is taking a swing at the bowling pins in the in-home bowling alley.

Tours are offered Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Adult tickets are $10 and tickets for children 6 to 16 are $5. Pencil in a minimum of two and a half hours to complete the tour of the mansion and its grounds.

If you are visiting at Christmas time, you can look forward to the magic of Christmas coming to life as several hundred nutcrackers are on display to celebrate the season.

The Greyhound Hall Of Fame

Greyhound Hall Of Fame

2. Visit The Greyhound Hall Of Fame

The Greyhound Capital of the World, the Greyhound Hall of Fame, is located in Abilene. A highlight of visiting is meeting Ginger, a lovely retired greyhound. I fell completely in love with Ginger a few years ago. Now, each time I am traveling Kansas I-70, I make an attempt to see her.

All visitors are greeted by a live greyhound, which makes the visit unique. The history of greyhounds, racing, and the people who love the sport are all highlighted in this hall of fame. If you are skeptical about greyhounds and racing, plan a visit. You will more than likely leave with a new perspective of the breed and the sport that many love.

The Greyhound Hall of Fame in Abilene is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Admission is free, and there is a place for free-will donations. Most importantly, sign the guestbook, as funding is often determined by the number of visitors accommodated within a set period of time. This attraction is located on Buckeye Street, right across from the Presidential Library and Museum.

3. Attend A Professional Production At Great Plains Theatre

The professional productions put on at the Great Plains Theatre are top-notch. The theater came to fruition in 1995, and Abilene is proud that it is a non-profit year-round actors’ equity professional theater. In fact, professionals from all across the country audition to perform in Abilene. If you are lucky, you will be in town when there’s an opening night performance and will get to partake in an afterglow party.

There’s nothing like meeting the professional actors and actresses up close and personal. Community members are also heavily involved, which brings local folks in for other events that are held in the theater.

4. Ride The Carousel At The Dickinson County Historical Society And Museum

The Dickinson County Museum is home to one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Customs. This hand-carved working carousel was manufactured in 1901 by the C. W. Parker Amusement Company. With 24 completely restored horses and four chariots, visitors can choose how they want to experience this famous carousel for a mere $2. Visitors of all ages are welcome to ride.

The Museum entry fee for all visitors is under $10 per person. The thing that surprised and delighted me the most during my visit was the number of telephones on display. It may well be the largest telephone display in the country. Everything from turn-of-the century telephones to today’s modern cell phones can be seen in one place. Plan a minimum of on hour to visit — and don’t forget to go out the back door to ride the carousel! This attraction is conveniently located near the Eisenhower Museum and Library grounds.

5. Experience Old Abilene Town

Old Abilene Town is where visitors can experience the Wild West. Explore the Alamo Saloon, Merchants Hotel, W. R. Wilson General Store, Viola Clock Shop, and more. On the weekends from May to Labor Day, guests can experience a gunfight followed by a can-can dance. The West comes to life in Abilene.

During Labor Day weekend, Abilene celebrates the Chisholm Trail, a cattle trail that routed livestock from Texas to Abilene in 1867. Because of it, Abilene flourished and became known as the “wildest and wooliest” town in the West.

6. Shopping In Abilene, Kansas

Antique enthusiasts will love the shopping scene in Abilene. With half a dozen antique shops to choose from, you can easily spend the better part of a day searching for the perfect memento or unexpected find.

My favorite place to shop in Abilene is in the historic downtown area. Cedar Street Market, located at 109 NW 3rd Street, is the perfect place to find art, gifts, and all types of antiques. What makes this shop unique is that an interior designer is on staff to help bring your shopping experience to life with expert insight. Customer service is top of the line, and you will leave knowing that you have found the best of the best in keepsakes or furnishings for your home or business.

While Ike may lure you in to Abilene, the other attractions will give you a reason to play for hours — or even days. Your time in Abilene may even warrant a return visit. From my personal experience, it will be sooner than later.

Headed through Kansas City on your way into or out of Abilene? Check out these 15 things to do on the Kansas side of Kansas City, eat at one of these seven popular Kansas City barbecue restaurants, and read up on finding the best tacos in KCK.

Chicken from Brookville Hotel.

Sara Broers

Best Restaurants In Abilene, Kansas

The food experience in Abilene, Kansas, is unique in that several eating establishments revolve around Ike. It’s hard to not see something referring to America’s 34th President while dining in Abilene. From broasted chicken and burgers to freshly baked cinnamon rolls and fresh deli sandwiches, Abilene has it all. Here are the best places to fill up.

Brookville Hotel

The Brookville Hotel is located right off of Kansas I-70 at Exit 275. The hotel (actually a restaurant) serves a family-style fried chicken dinner with all the fixings families love. Prepare to indulge in good comfort food. A platter of fried chicken paired with mashed potatoes, creamed corn, biscuits, and coleslaw makes this an award-winning meal.

Whether you’re traveling as a small family or a large group, the Brookville Hotel can accommodate you. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday and open in the evenings Wednesday through Friday. Lunch and dinner are served on the weekends.

Mr. K’s Farmhouse Restaurant

Mr. K’s Farmhouse restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Chicken breasts, roast turkey and pork, pork chops, chicken strips, and chicken fried steaks are popular menu items. I personally love the setting of the restaurant. It has a historical, country feel. The best tip I can give you: Order pie.

Mr. K’s Farmhouse Restaurant is located at 407 South Van Buren Street in Abilene. They are closed on Monday and open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. They serve up lunch on Sunday as well.

Amanda’s Bakery And Bistro

Amanda’s is located at 302 North Broadway Street in the heart of Abilene. This restaurant does not have the largest selection, but what they do serve is extremely tasty. Coffee enthusiasts will love the coffee and the setting. The freshly baked goods, including cinnamon rolls, are sure to win everyone over. The sandwiches and soups, both perfect for lunch, are tasty and fresh.

If you are looking for a quick, fresh, and tasty meal in Abilene, Amanda’s Bakery and Bistro is your go-to place.

8 Quaint Beach Towns In The Southeast

My recipe for a perfect beach vacation is two parts beach, equal parts kitschy beach village, and plenty of time to soak it all up. As a Californian, I was skeptical that my ideal beach escape could exist outside my home state — that is, until I packed my bathing suit, flip-flops, and paperback and headed to the beaches of the Southeast.

I had low expectations, but I was dead wrong. The southern Atlantic coast is dotted with beautiful beaches and charming historic towns — so many, in fact, that it will take me years to soak them all up.

Check out these eight beach towns in the Southeast where life slows down and the modern world slips away as you surf, read, kayak, eat, drink, shop, and rest in the sunshine. These are towns where pirates once walked — what more can I say?

The harbor in Beaufort, North Carolina.

LindaZ74 / Shutterstock

1. Beaufort, North Carolina

Beaufort, North Carolina, one of the Southeast’s oldest and most charming beach towns, is at the southern tip of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Pronounced “Bowfort” (not “Bewfert” like its South Carolina namesake), this colonial-era village embraces its pirate history. Time your visit for early August and shiver your timbers at the Beaufort Pirate Invasion Festival, a reenactment of the 1747 Spanish pirate invasion.

You can spend a long weekend exploring the town and beaches, but there’s so much to do here that you really need a week or two. Bring your picnic and beach paraphernalia on the ferry to the Cape Lookout National Seashore to swim, read, and watch for the wild horses living on some of the southern Outer Banks. Climb the 12-story Cape Lookout Lighthouse between mid-May and mid-September. Or hit the beach at Fort Macon State Park and tour the Civil War-era fort. When you’re ready for a day off from the beach, explore the shops in town, visit the NC Maritime Museum, or kayak in the Rachel Carson Estuarine Reserve.

Ocracoke Lighthouse in North Carolina.

Victor N. Overton / Shutterstock

2. Ocracoke, North Carolina

At the northern tip of North Carolina’s Outer Banks — accessible by ferry, private boat, or small plane — is Ocracoke Island. At the southern end of the island, you’ll find the 4-square-mile beach and fishing village of Ocracoke, dripping with Southern charm. It’s the perfect place to spend leisurely days exploring on a fat-wheeled beach bike or golf cart. Isolated from the mainland, it’s a unique beach experience that’s ideal for a summer break. The little fishing village is full of art and craft galleries, unique shops, cafés, and restaurants. At the surrounding beaches, you’ll find great surfing, shelling, and fishing. Plan on taking at least a day to drive the length of the wild and mostly undeveloped 16-mile island.

Ocracoke’s summertime events are worth planning a vacation around. First is the Ocracoke Festival, three days of music, storytelling, and craft displays in early June. Next is the three-day Fourth of July extravaganza that kicks off with the famous Ocracoke Square dance and fireworks over Silver Lake.

Duck, North Carolina.
aceshot1 / Shutterstock.com

3. Duck, North Carolina

One of the youngest villages in the Outer Banks, this charming beach haven didn’t blossom until the 21st century. Although Duck, North Carolina, existed for years with little more than a convenience store, tackle shops, and a few houses, it was finally developed into a quaint, walkable beach destination. There are 7 miles of wide beaches accessible only to residents and their guests, and summertime crowds at the beach are nonexistent.

Tourists do, however, visit Duck to enjoy the shops, excellent culinary scene, and spas. The village is on the Currituck Sound side of the island and has a long waterside boardwalk that is home to many shops and eateries. The town is the perfect spot to drop anchor for a long Outer Banks beach vacation. There are water sports to enjoy in the ocean and in the sound, miles of walking trails, and even surf fishing. Visit in early October to catch the famous Duck Jazz Festival, held rain or shine.

4. Pawleys Island, South Carolina

About 70 miles north of Charleston, South Carolina, is Pawleys Island, a barrier island known for its sand dunes, beaches, golf courses, and rope hammocks. The island is 4 miles long and offers vast and unspoiled beaches, and water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing are popular. Shelling and crabbing are also big on this low-country island. Since there’s little to no commercial development, you can easily spend a quiet weekend or a long, relaxing beach vacation here.

In the quaint village of the same name, you’ll find shabby-chic cottages alongside historic homes. The village offers three shopping areas and authentic low-country food.

Folly Beach in South Carolina.

Denton Rumsey / Shutterstock

5. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Looking for a beach vacation in a place with a “global-village-loving hippie vibe” that’s “famously funky” and very near Charleston? Then you’ll want to visit the quirky, fun beach town of Folly Beach, South Carolina.

Known for its Folly Beach Pier, which stretches 1,045 feet into the ocean, Folly Beach is full of souvenir shops and surf shops and offers fantastic fish tacos and nightly live music. But the beach is the star of Folly Beach’s show, and there’s public access at the end of every block. Spend your days on the beach, enjoying kayaking, surfing, and fishing and viewing the inaccessible Morris Island Lighthouse.

Between May and September, you can see loggerhead sea turtles come to the beach to lay their eggs. It’s also common to see pods of dolphins swimming and playing offshore.

This beach town would be ideal for a long weekend or extended summer vacation.

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

6. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina

Even closer to Charleston than Folly Beach is the 2.5-mile-long barrier island called Sullivan’s Island. Its small-town charm dates to the 17th century, and the island was prominent in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

Today, you’ll find wide beaches, water sports, shops, restaurants, and the remains of Fort Moultrie to explore. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie in the early 1800s and used the island as a setting for a few of his short stories. Another must-see is the 90-acre maritime forest that can be accessed via a nature trail.

You can pack a lot of Sullivan’s Island into three days, making it a perfect long-weekend getaway.

Saint Simmons Park and Lighthouse in Georgia.

Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

7. Saint Simons Island, Georgia

The barrier islands along the coast of Georgia are known as the Golden Isles. Saint Simons, the largest of these barrier islands, is a mix of wide-open beaches and large, Spanish-moss-draped oak trees. Life moves at a slower pace on this island, and you can spend many days enjoying seafood and cocktails on the beach. The key to a great experience here is to take advantage of the more than 30 miles of bike trails to get to Saint Simons Lighthouse, Frederica’s Christ Church, Fort Frederica, and the remains of Cannon’s Point Plantation and nature preserve.

Charming and quaint Pier Village is on the south end of the island. It’s full of shops, restaurants, and great places to stroll while enjoying some ice cream on a summer night. In June, the famous Georgia Sea Islands Festival celebrates Gullah Geechee music, food, and crafts. If you’re visiting on the Fourth of July, head to Neptune Park for fireworks.

This is the perfect island on which to spend at least a week balancing history, shopping, and eating with beach time.

Aerial view fo Tybee Island, Georgia.

SFP Aerial Stock Footage / Shutterstock

8. Tybee Island, Georgia

If you’re looking for a beach town with lots of kitschy charm, head to Tybee Island. The 5-mile-long island combines wide beaches, marshy waterways, biking, kayaking, shops, and food in a perfect, laid-back package.

Just like its barrier-island neighbors, Tybee is home to some significant American history. Visit the Tybee Lighthouse, Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse; Fort Screven; and the nearby Fort Pulaski National Monument. The movie theater in the Fort Screven Historic District was one of the first theaters in Georgia to show “talkies,” or movies with sound.

Little Tybee Island is a great place for a daylong or overnight camping adventure. This uninhabited nature preserve is south of Tybee and accessible only by boat or kayak. Pirates once roamed these shores, and if you visit Tybee Island in October, you can catch the Pirate Festival, which celebrates the island’s swashbuckling heritage with costumes, food, and revelry.

Tybee Island is a perfect spot for that long, relaxing beach vacation, but you can pack a lot into a weekend there as well.

8 Wonderful Hidden Gems In Denver

At the base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a fast-paced, rapidly-growing city with a plethora of places to experience its vibrancy and rich history. You could easily spend a week in the Mile High City and still not hit it all. But, if you only have a few days, it’s these special attractions and experiences that will give you a true Western feel and a unique look into Denver’s past.

Colorful Drone Sunset Above City Park in Denver, Colorado
Image: Jeremy Janus, Shutterstock

1. Banjo Billy’s Bus Tours

Welcome to a Denver history tour with a Wild West twist. Banjo Billy’s Bus Tour is the most unique way to see Denver (and even Boulder if you venture up that way). The adventure starts with your seat choice. You can choose from a saddle or a couch, or even kick back and relax in a recliner.

The history tour takes you by prominent landmarks and delves into the city’s roots. Banjo Billy’s ghost tour is perhaps the most popular, though, and it sells out quite often. It takes you to the most haunted places in the city and will have you questioning if spirits still live there today. Another favorite is the brewery tour, which will allow you to experience Denver’s nationally-known craft beer scene with a trip to three local breweries and even some beer tasting! Aside from the group tours, Banjo Billy’s offers private tours, too.

Banjo Billy’s runs several tours daily (except Mondays) in the summer with prices ranging from $20 to $30, and the company does offer senior discounts. There are fewer tours in the winter. Your best bet is to book online early to make sure you get a spot!

2. The Buckhorn Exchange

The Buckhorn Exchange claims to have the city’s first liquor license and has been serving up unique dishes for more than a century. Businessmen, Native American chiefs, and five U.S. Presidents have eaten here — as is evidenced by the restaurant’s walls. Perhaps the most unique feature of this establishment is its massive taxidermy collection, which includes buffalo, sheep, and a two-headed calf.

The menu is like a walk back in time. It hasn’t changed much from its roots in the 1800s. For the adventurous, try the alligator, elk, or Rocky Mountain oysters. But, don’t worry! There’s also more traditional fare like steaks, duck, and lamb. The Buckhorn Exchange is located just a few minutes south of downtown Denver and has a light rail stop (10th and Osage) right across the street for easy access.

Fall foliage colors at Washington Park by the lake in Denver, Colorado, in Autumn Season
Image: Faina Gurevich, Shutterstock

3. Twist And Shout Records

Vinyl is king at this iconic record store in Denver’s Washington Park neighborhood. A husband-and-wife duo started the store in the late ’60s and turned it into the 11,000-square-foot space that it is today. You’ll find some of the rarest records here, including out-of-print items, plus CDs, DVDs, and LPs.

The vintage posters and pop culture memorabilia make this store a true music mecca. Catching a live performance at Twist and Shout is an exciting treat, too. You might just see a future star!

According to its website, icons like Elvis Costello and Patti Smith have performed here. Twist and Shout also looks to buy items, so if you’re holding on to a piece of music history, it might be worth getting an appraisal. Twist and Shout is centrally located near Denver’s many music venues, so it’s a great stop before a show.

4. Forney Museum Of Transportation

Amelia Earhart’s famous yellow bug, an Indian motorcycle collection, even cable cars — transportation methods of all kinds are on display at the Forney Museum of Transportation. From cars and trains to airplanes and even sleighs and bicycles, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another collection like it.

Located in northeast Denver, the museum started as a private collection that ballooned to include more than 600 pieces. It frequently offers new exhibits as well as events, including car building workshops and a fall festival. Admission is $12 and there is a senior discount.

5. Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs

A hot dog joint may not be at the top of the list for visitors, but this Denver gem is so unique, it deserves a stop. Located in downtown Denver, Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs serves up delicious dogs for adventurous eaters. There are rattlesnake dogs, reindeer dogs, jackalope dogs, and even wild boar dogs (just to name a few). The toppings are equally unique.

Have your dog the “classic” way with cream cheese and caramelized onions (caramelized in soda, by the way) or kick it up a notch with cactus, wasabi, or caramelized apples. There is even a vegan dog if those meats don’t appeal to you!

You can find Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs right near Coors Field and inside the baseball stadium. There are also carts around town — most notably across from the clocktower on Denver’s 16th Street Mall.

6. Denver’s Hidden Bars

Hidden behind glass doors, behind bookshelves, and beyond pie shops lie some of Denver’s best kept secrets. These are Denver’s hidden bars — the ones that go unnoticed by the masses but promise one-of-a-kind experiences.

Williams And Graham

Perhaps the most popular is Williams and Graham in the Highlands neighborhood just east of downtown Denver. From the outside, Williams and Graham looks like a bookstore, but behind the revolving bookshelf, you’ll find a dimly-lit bar that serves small plates and hand-crafted cocktails. It opens daily at 5 p.m.

Green Russell Speakeasy

Larimer Square — located in the heart of downtown — draws visitors for the beautiful lights strung over the road, its stylish boutique stores, and trendy restaurants with outdoor seating. But behind an unassuming pie shop, you’ll find the Green Russell Speakeasy. This gem doesn’t even allow cell phone use (except inside the vintage phone booth). And it’s truly a cocktail adventure — just answer a few questions from the bartender and he will serve up a drink that’s sure to surprise you. The Green Russell opens every day at 5 p.m.

Saint Ellie

Blink and you’ll miss the door to Saint Ellie in Denver’s Riverfront neighborhood. It’s accessible via an understated glass door set in a brick wall. On the other side are stairs leading down to a cozy space beneath popular restaurant Colt and Gray. This bar has a more laid-back vibe with good food and excellent cocktails. Note that Saint Ellie is closed Sundays and Mondays.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.

Radomir Rezny / Shutterstock

7. Activities At Red Rocks

A few minutes west of Denver is the geological wonder of Red Rocks. While the outdoor amphitheater isn’t a hidden gem itself, it’s the lesser-known activities on site that make this place a rare treat. Red Rocks hosts diverse activities — think yoga, barre, and even ski conditioning — all year round. One of the best events happens during the summer. Film on the Rocks is your chance to watch movies under the stars. A local band will kick things off, with the movie starting at dusk. They show films ranging from new releases to ’80s classics. Go to the website for ticket price info and be sure to book early — some of these events fill up quickly!

For more of a relaxed time, soak up the scenery while eating at the Ship Rock Grille. Located inside the visitor center, it serves up wings, burgers, and even elk sausage. Making a reservation is a great idea because the restaurant closes early on concert days.

An added bonus is the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, also located inside the Red Rock’s Visitor Center.

If you venture out to Red Rocks, expect to walk a lot of stairs (ADA and accessibility information is available here). Odds are, your thighs will be burning, but the experience is well worth it! Admission to Red Rocks is free, but check the website to see if any of the events you want to participate in cost money.

Four Mile Historic Park.
Jim Lambert / Shutterstock.com

8. Four Mile Historic Park

This is a taste of the country within the city. Four Mile Historic Park is home to Denver’s oldest building: the Four Mile House. The house was built in the 1800s along the Cherry Creek River and offered services to travelers following the Cherokee Trail. Today, it sits among 12 acres of land near Denver’s city center. It’s a great place to relax, take a stroll, or have a picnic, all while learning about Colorado’s history. Every fourth Sunday, the Four Mile Historic Park comes to life with storytelling, crafts, and demonstrations. And you can even take some of Colorado home with you with a stop at the General Store, which sells exclusive handmade items. Proceeds go back to the preservation and support of Four Mile Historic Park.

Admission is $5 and $4 for seniors. If you time your visit right, the park hosts free days on the second Friday of each month. Admission means access to the grounds — which includes all the historical buildings, plus an opportunities to pan for gold and enjoy a guided tour of the house.

Once you’ve enjoyed the city’s hidden gems, be sure to enjoy at least one of these day trips from Denver.

7 Beautiful Places In Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is a vibrant, enchanting city, and while vacationers often overlook it in favor of other East Asian cities like Tokyo and Beijing, that’s starting to change.

In 2016, 13.57 million foreign tourists visited Seoul, setting a new record for the city, and Seoul’s Tourism Promotion Foundation expects that number to continue to rise over the next decade.

For travelers, South Korea’s capital offers a virtually endless selection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences and amazing photo opportunities. If you’re planning a trip to Seoul — or if you’re daydreaming of a visit to a truly breathtaking city — here are a few of the most beautiful spots in Seoul to add to your itinerary.

The Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul.

CJ Nattanai / Shutterstock

1. Bukchon Hanok Village

If you can appreciate traditional architecture, you’ll fall in love with this little neighborhood, nestled near Jongmyo Shrine and Gyeongbokgung Palace (the latter of which has earned a spot on this list, too). Some of the buildings in Bukchon are hundreds of years old, and many were the residences of high-ranking government officials during the Joseon Dynasty, which ruled from 1392 to 1897.

In recent years, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has set strict visiting hours to prevent tourists from disrupting residents’ lives. As such, you’ll want to plan your visit between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Also, be respectful; don’t take photographs of residents without their permission.

The Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple in Seoul.

Zoran Karapancev / Shutterstock

2. Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple

One of the most important temples in Korean Buddhism, Jogyesa was originally built in the late 14th century. After a fire, it was rebuilt as Gackhwangsa Temple in 1910, then renamed Tegosa Temple in 1936. In 1954, it was renamed Jogyesa Temple as part of a national effort to revive traditional Korean Buddhism.

Jogyesa is located in central Seoul on gorgeous grounds that sit serenely among the blocks of office buildings. It’s regularly used for worship, which, again, calls for a respectful approach. Visitors are allowed to enter the shrine and take pictures on the grounds. During the chrysanthemum festival (held annually from early October to early November), Jogyesa is filled with stunning flower displays.

Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.

CJ Nattanai / Shutterstock

3. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon dynasty. Japanese forces burned it to the ground toward the end of the 16th century, but it was rebuilt in 1867, and today, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Seoul. It’s breathtaking, particularly for fans of Korean architecture.

Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays, but accessible most of the year (admissions are occasionally limited during special events, so be sure to visit the palace’s website when planning your trip). Visit the main gate to see the changing of the guard ceremony, which is held on the hour every hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The DDP LED White Rose Garden in Seoul.

Travelerpix / Shutterstock

4. The DDP LED White Rose Garden

For a romantic night on the town, you can’t do much better than the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) rose garden. The 25,550 “flowers” are equipped with LEDs, so it’s not a traditional garden by any means — but that’s part of the appeal.

At nighttime, the garden lights up, providing a serene backdrop to the cityscape. The display was installed in 2015 to celebrate South Korea’s 70th year of independence. The garden is accessible year-round.

The Ansan Starlight Village in Seoul.

Traveling Korea

5. Ansan Starlight Village

Like the DDP rose garden, Ansan Starlight Village provides a year-round light display ideal for taking memorable photos. It’s organized into several areas with different themes that change throughout the year.

On a typical visit, you might walk past hundreds of meticulously decorated “animals” or venture down a path surrounded by umbrellas and hearts. It’s a slightly surreal experience, perfect for making memories.

The Namsan Seoul Tower in South Korea.

CJ Nattanai / Shutterstock

6. Namsan Seoul Tower

Seoul’s skyline is nothing short of incredible, and there’s no better way to experience it than at Namsan Seoul Tower (commonly referred to as N Seoul Tower). Built in 1969, this transmission tower has a roof terrace, multiple restaurants, and numerous viewing platforms.

The terrace has a wooden viewing deck, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. There’s also a Digital Observatory, which provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Screens around the observatory provide visitors with information about the history of Seoul.

Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul, South Korea.

Chintung Lee / Shutterstock

7. Cheong Wa Dae

The Korean presidential residence is also known as the Blue House (for obvious reasons). You’ll have to book an official tour to experience this attraction, but it’s worth the effort. An inscription on a stone wall reads: “The Most Blessed Place on Earth,” and the transcendent beauty of the Nokjiwon Garden, also on the property, lends itself to that claim.

In addition to the garden, you’ll get to walk through old building grounds, the Main Building, and the state guest house (Yeongbin-gwan) during your 60-minute tour. Book your visit to Cheong Wa Dae while scheduling your trip. Tours can be reserved as far as six months in advance (and must be scheduled at least 20 days ahead of time). Food and drinks are strictly prohibited, but the tours are free.

Fascinated by Asian architecture? Here’s how to see Vietnam’s beautiful Golden Bridge.

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