8 Incredible Things To See And Do In South Dakota

South Dakota might not be the first state that comes to mind when you’re planning a vacation — but this Great Plains gem actually has a lot to offer. While the state has heavily relied on agriculture as an economic mainstay over the years, the tourism industry has been growing rapidly to become a serious contender. The state’s charms go far beyond Mount Rushmore.

While Mount Rushmore is probably the most famous attraction in South Dakota, there are many other beautiful sites, towns, and natural wonders to explore.

Here are eight things you absolutely must see and do during your time in this underrated state.

Badlands National Park in South Dakota. — EQRoy / Shutterstock

1. Explore Badlands National Park

The Lakota named this area of the state Mako Sica, meaning “no good land,” for a good reason. Located in the western portion of the state, the Badlands showcase some of the most extreme, rugged, isolated terrain and geological formations in the nation. Badlands National Park covers 244,000 acres of buttes, pinnacles, spires, and some of the world’s richest fossil beds, all juxtaposed with mixed-grass prairies that are home to bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.

One of the best ways to experience this national park is on the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway. It’s a two-lane, 31-mile route that guides you through some of the most magnificent areas of the park. There are numerous pull-offs and trailheads along this route, giving you plenty of options to get out and fully immerse yourself in the scenery. You can access this scenic drive from Interstate 90, which connects with Highway 240 (the loop road).

Badlands National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Entrance fees are $25 per private vehicle, $15 per motorcycle, and $12 to hike or bike through (all entrance fees cover visitation for seven days).

Custer State Park in South Dakota. — Jess Kraft / Shutterstock

2. Experience Local Wildlife At Custer State Park

About 15 miles east of Custer, you’ll find some of the wildest land in the country. Within Custer State Park’s 71,000 acres, you can experience hiking trails, scenic driving routes, well-kept recreational areas, boating, swimming, fishing, horseback riding, as well as herds of bison and other indigenous wildlife. (Don’t try to pet them.)

The park is sectioned into four quarters (Northeast, Southeast, Central, and West), each with its own activity options. Don’t know where to start? Try one of the scenic drives. The Wildlife Loop (18 miles) takes you through prairie and pine-studded landscapes, offering the real possibility of getting up close and personal with the bison, white-tailed deer, elk, prairie dogs, and feral burros that all freely roam the area. (Again, if you do come across a group of animals, stay in the car and never try to make direct contact.)

Needles Highway (14 miles) takes you through a striking landscape of Black Hills spruce forests and granite mountains. Be sure to stop and see the Needle’s Eye rock formation, located southeast of Sylvan Lake along Highway 87.

Custer Park is open year-round and has an entrance fee of $10 per motorcycle and $20 per car. Want to stay for multiple days, but don’t enjoy camping? Book a room at the Custer State Park Resort.

The Dignity statue in South Dakota. — Travel South Dakota

3. Visit Dignity

Set high on a bluff, just off of Interstate 90 near the town of Chamberlain, you’ll find a striking statue called Dignity. This 50-foot-tall, stainless steel sculpture is a beautiful blend of art and history. Artist Dale Lamphere crafted the statue to honor the Lakota and Dakota people, who were some of the first inhabitants of what is now South Dakota.

The statue depicts a Native American woman holding a star-and-diamond-studded quilt that waves and glitters in the wind. At night, Dignity is softly lit and casts a glow that can be seen from the interstate. Dignity is free to visit and can be found between exits 263 and 265 off of Interstate 90.

Just across the interstate from the statue, in the town of Chamberlain, you’ll find the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center. This museum is truly an interactive experience, showcasing the past and present of the area native people’s lives.

The Wall Drug Store in South Dakota. — Frank Romeo / Shutterstock

4. Shop And Eat At Wall Drug Store

North of the Badlands along Interstate 90, you’ll find the town of Wall. It might not look like much — it’s quite small and unassuming — but the local pharmacy, Wall Drug Store, has become one of the most popular tourist stops in the state.

Wall Drug Store originally opened in 1931. Since the 1930s, it’s grown into a sprawling roadside attraction that proudly offers free ice water to all patrons, as well as 5-cent coffees.

At Wall Drug Store, you can find leather goods, Western wear, plenty of South Dakota-related gifts, an art gallery, a full restaurant, homemade ice cream, and much more. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and shop, and there is plenty of free parking nearby.

Mammoth Site of Hot Springs. — Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock.com

5. Travel Back In Time In Hot Springs

In the southwestern portion of the state you’ll find the town of Hot Springs. It was here, 26,000 years ago, that woolly mammoths, giant short-faced bears, camels, llamas, prairie dogs, wolves, and coyotes became trapped and died in a watering hole. Now, just off the Highway 18 Bypass, you can explore the active paleontological dig site, where more than 60 mammoth fossils have been discovered.

You can visit the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs and tour the dig site for an up-close view of the fossilized remains. The museum’s hours change with the seasons, so be sure to double check the times before setting out for the day. Admission for children and military personnel costs $7.37. Admission for teens and adults costs $10.14, and seniors pay $8.29.

Sioux Falls in South Dakota. — Sopotnicki / Shutterstock

6. Walk Among Art And Natural Wonders In Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, the most populous city in South Dakota, is located at the far eastern edge of the state, slightly south of Interstate 90. The city got its name thanks to the numerous cascades along the Big Sioux River, and Falls Park is the city’s best spot to enjoy these waterways.

The park is located just northeast of the downtown area and features a 50-foot viewing tower, the remnants of the old Queen Bee Mill, as well as plenty of recreational space. Hours change seasonally, but from March 8 to November 1, the park is open to the public from 5 a.m. to midnight every day.

When you’re finished enjoying the scenery at Falls Park, you can start the city-wide sculpture walk that will lead you from Falls Park to the Washington Pavilion. Established in 2004, the Sioux Falls SculptureWalk is the largest exhibit of public art sculptures in the country. Each year a new set of sculptures is installed, and the public votes on their favorite piece.

You can find statues in the downtown, uptown, and eastbank areas of the city; most of the pieces are located along Phillips Avenue between 13th Street and 8th Street. If you have any questions about the walk, you can find the visitor center on the second floor of the Washington Pavilion.

A field of sunflowers in South Dakota. — Carol Mellema / Shutterstock

7. Tour Sunflower Fields Between Adventures

Kansas might be the Sunflower State, but South Dakota is actually one of the country’s top producers of these floral marvels. This means that if you’re driving through the state between July and August, you’ll catch a glimpse of some massive flowering fields. Most sunflower farms are located off of Interstate 90, with some of the best spots said to be near Pierre (north of Interstate 90 off of Highway 14) and between Rapid City and Box Elder.

If tracking down a flower farm seems like too much of a hassle, you can book a room at the Hydeout Bed & Breakfast in Highmore, located just south of the intersection of Highways 14 and 47. The owners offer tours of the local fields, so you’ll get to relax and enjoy your time in town without having to worry about the details.

The Black Hills in South Dakota. — Dan Thornberg / Shutterstock

8. Create Your Own Adventure In The Black Hills

Butting up to the Wyoming-South Dakota border, the Black Hills National Forest covers more than 5,000 square miles and is home to numerous monuments, parks, and natural wonders. You could easily spend months exploring this part of the state, but since most people don’t have that kind of time, these are some of the must-see attractions.

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial are both located in the Black Hills, north of Custer. Visiting these legendary monuments is a virtual rite of passage for all Americans.

Jewel Cave National Monument is one of the country’s largest known caves, with more than 190 miles of passageways under the ground of the Black Hills. Guided tours of the caves allow you to see naturally created calcite crystals, stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and hydromagnesite balloons. Keep in mind that any cave tour will involve some moderately difficult walking paths and limited lighting.

Historic Deadwood has been a town since 1876, when the gold rush of South Dakota brought prospectors to the area. Its rough-and-tumble history includes the stories of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. The town survived and is currently thriving, brought back from the brink of extinction in 1989 with the legalization of limited-wage gambling.

Today, your visit to Deadwood can include a luxury hotel or a charming bed and breakfast. You can find upscale dining options as well as more casual eateries, not to mention a few old-timey Western saloons. Visit the casino or spend your day at the local spa or antique shops. Deadwood may be worlds away from its Wild West origins, but it’s still as exciting as ever to visit (not to mention quite a bit safer).

If creating your own Black Hills itinerary feels too intimidating, check out these suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your vacation time.

Whatever you do in South Dakota, you’re sure to head home with incredible memories.

Visiting The Outer Banks: 11 Fun Things To Do With The Family

As the birthplace of flight and the home to nearly 100 wild horses, the Outer Banks appeal to travelers of all ages. This stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina attracts travelers throughout the year with its rich history, laid-back vibe, and easy access to adventure.

Whether your family is into unwinding at the beach or checking every lighthouse off the bucket list, it’s hard to go wrong with a family trip to the Outer Banks. This beach oasis is home to hundreds of things to see, do, and eat, but today, we’re highlighting the top 11 things to do with the whole family in the area.

Wild horses in North Carolina. — TmBachmann Photography / Shutterstock

1. See The Wild Horses

The Outer Banks’s wild horses will fascinate family members of all ages. The region is home to roughly 100 wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs, and a guided tour is the best way to see them up close. Outfitters like Wild Horse Adventure Tours offer safari trips to the beaches of Corolla. Along the way, guides discuss the history and legends of the area. Aside from the horses, you might see dolphins or foxes, so keep your eyes open for wildlife.

Tours start at $44 per guest, take around 2 hours, and are available most months of the year. According to the website, there are no tours from December through February.

2. Explore Island Farm

The Outer Banks are chock-full of history, and visiting Island Farm, a family-friendly living-history site, is a great way to experience it. The site takes visitors back to the mid-1800s, when islanders relied on the land to feed and support their families. The experience centers on a family that faced struggles during the Civil War and assisted the Wright brothers with their first flight.

Island Farm is open from April 2 to November 30; admission costs $8 but is free for children under 5 years old.

3. Learn About Marine Life At The Aquarium

The Outer Banks are home to the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, which features animals like river otters, turtles, and American alligators. The family-friendly aquarium runs a Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation Center where you can witness the work being done to save local sea turtles. The whole family can marvel at sea jellies and sharks — and touch stingrays!

Those brave enough — and with proper certification — can even swim with sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks, and sandbar sharks in the aquarium’s 285,000-gallon Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit. This program is for guests 15 and older and takes about 2 hours.

The main aquarium is open daily. Admission starts at $10.95 for children and $12.95 for adults.

4. Take A Dolphin-Watching Tour

People of all ages love seeing dolphins in the wild — that’s why the Outer Banks’s dolphin-watching tours are the perfect multigenerational experiences. Outfitters like Captain Johnny’s Outer Banks Dolphin Tours take guests on 2-hour, kid-friendly adventures complete with scenic views and lots of information about the Atlantic Coast’s bottlenose dolphins. While a dolphin sighting isn’t guaranteed, Captain Johnny’s has a 99 percent success rate on its trips. Some lucky visitors have even seen dolphins giving birth!

Tours run from May through October, and there are morning, afternoon, and sunset options. Prices start at $10 for children and $30 for adults.

A sailboat on the coast of North Carolina. — jennyt / Shutterstock

5. Go Sailing

Family time is great as it is, but on a scenic sailboat ride, it’s even better. An Outer Banks sailing adventure will give your family time to relax, reconnect, and bond as the coastline passes by. Companies like Sail the Outer Banks in Manteo offer 3-hour sunset cruises along the waterfront, with up to six guests allowed on board. These experiences are private, and guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks; there’s a refrigerator on board to keep those cold ones, well, cold. You can also learn how to sail with a professional instructor, a great option for kids and teens while parents and grandparents sit back and relax.

Sailing tours average around $60 per person; spring, summer, and fall are the most popular seasons, although trips are offered into November and as early as March, weather permitting.

6. Visit The Wright Brothers Memorial

A family vacation to the Outer Banks wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. At this interactive visitor center, you’ll learn all about Orville and Wilbur Wright, how they learned to fly, and the historic events that led to their monumental December 17, 1903, flight.

Admission costs $10 for adults and is free for children 15 years old and younger.

A lighthouse in North Carolina. — Cvandyke / Shutterstock

7. Lighthouse-Hop Along The Coast

The Outer Banks are home to four beautiful lighthouses, including Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and Ocracoke Island Lighthouse.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse still operates as a guide for passing mariners and can be seen up to 18 nautical miles away. The lighthouse grounds are open throughout the year, and you can climb the 220 steps to the top any day between Easter and the day before Thanksgiving.

Just outside of Nags Head, along a row of cedar trees, is Bodie Island Lighthouse, with its black-and-white stripes that stand out against the blue sky. The 156-foot lighthouse is visible from 19 miles away, and you can climb the 214 steps to the top during the summer.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is the Outer Banks’s most famous lighthouse, not to mention the world’s tallest brick lighthouse at 208 feet high. This destination attracts 175,000 visitors each year with its 257 steps that lead to 360-degree views of the Outer Banks. You can climb the lighthouse from late April until Columbus Day. Tickets are available at the adjacent gift shop.

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is the second-oldest lighthouse in the United States. While it’s not as tall and mighty as its peers, its beam is still bright; it can be seen up to 14 miles away. The lighthouse is 65 feet tall, although it’s not open for climbing.

Sand dunes in North Carolina. — Steve Bower / Shutterstock

8. Lounge At The Beach

While the Outer Banks offer history, wildlife, and adventure, the most popular thing to do at the coastal destination is to relax and sunbathe at the beach! The Outer Banks feature miles and miles of scenic coastline, but three of the most family-friendly beaches are in Kitty Hawk, Duck, and Nags Head.

Kitty Hawk Beach’s top-notch waves are perfect for teens or adventurous adults hoping to surf, boogie board, or stand-up paddleboard. Kitty Hawk Watersports offers a variety of rental gear.

Duck Beach, on the other hand, is slightly calmer in terms of waves. And it’s not only family friendly — it’s pet friendly, too! Dogs can roam the beach off leash (as long as an owner is present, of course).

Nags Head is the most natural of the three beach towns. Dogs are allowed on the Nags Head beach as well, as long as they’re on leashes that are 10 feet or shorter. You can also bring beer to the beach, although wine and liquor are not permitted.

9. Go Fishing

Rock On Charters runs a children’s fishing trip where the boat’s captain teaches little ones the ins and outs of equipment, technique, and safety. Fishing excursions take place along the sounds surrounding the Outer Banks, and most trips include a dolphin sighting or two. You can catch up to 10 different species of fish during the trip; most fish are released, but if it’s a “keeper,” the captain will let you take it home for dinner.

Fishing trips start at $400 for 4 hours; trips are available seasonally, with a focus on the peak season of summer.

10. Play Mini Golf

For a fun night out with the family, play a round of mini golf at Frisco Mini Golf and Go Karts. This no-frills center is great for family members of all ages, with inexpensive mini golf ($9) and go-karts ($11). Bumper cars are also available ($6).

11. Relax At The Spa

If it’s time for a break from the little ones — or you need some mother-daughter bonding time — hit up AQUA Spa, a scenic, full-service spa with massage therapy and skin and nail services. One of the spa’s most popular offerings is the sunset-view Swedish massage, which includes warm stones set to the tune of crashing waves by the ocean.

Another spa option, Stillwater Spa & Wellness in Ocracoke, offers a range of spa treatments, including facials, body scrubs, body wraps, foot treatments, and a variety of massages.

After a weeklong adventure with the family in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, you may want to extend your stay in the state with a stop in Raleigh, just 3 hours away. Offering everything from art museums to outdoor adventures and history to craft beer, Raleigh would make the perfect end to your family’s Outer Banks vacation. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Raleigh. Happy travels!

How To See Lake Baikal’s Turquoise Ice: The Oldest And Deepest Lake In The World

When you think of perfect winter and early spring vacation destinations, Siberia is probably not what comes to mind, but it should. Lake Baikal is a game changer, luring tourists away from balmy tropical beaches to marvel at its bright ice formations that gleam like tanzanite in the sun.

A vast, deep, ancient freshwater body, Lake Baikal, is known for its clear waters, winter sports, and brilliantly blue ice hummocks that make its frozen surface look like it’s studded with precious gemstones. It’s also important from a conservation perspective. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains 20 percent of the world’s fresh water and upward of 1,500 different types of animals, 80 percent of which are unique to the lake.

Ice on frozen Lake Baikal. — Sergey Pesterev / Shutterstock

March Is The Month To Visit Lake Baikal

Although summer is a nice time to do some hiking around the calm shores of Lake Baikal, March is the ideal month to visit. Temperatures in March hover around 16 degrees Fahrenheit, a pleasant break from the below-zero temperatures of earlier winter months. Although you’ll still need a parka, gloves, and a thick scarf in March, you’ll be able to check out the spectacular ice formations in relative comfort.

Most of the ice is still visible until May, when the average temperature climbs to 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Warmer lake and air temperatures mean that the hummocks are less prominent and spectacular. During the summer months, the hummocks vanish altogether as the lake ice melts.

An ice cave on frozen Lake Baikal. — gumbao / Shutterstock

Visiting Beautiful Lake Baikal

The closest city to Lake Baikal is Irkutsk, Siberia. You can fly into the city’s international airport and be on the shores of Lake Baikal within a matter of hours. You have the option of arranging your own travels, which would involve taking the bus, or signing up for a tour from Irkutsk. If you want to spend more time marveling at Lake Baikal’s fantastic formations or partake in some of the lake’s winter sports, you can find accommodation right on its shores.

Although Lake Baikal isn’t on the international tourist map yet, it’s still advisable to book ahead. This is especially true if you’re planning on traveling there between March and May, or are interested in spending New Year’s or Christmas at the lake.

Frozen Lake Baikal in Russia. — Nickolay Vinokurov / Shutterstock

Things To Keep In Mind

The ice on Lake Baikal is tremendously thick, so you can technically venture out onto it if you visit during the winter months. If you want to walk amongst the turquoise-colored ice, make sure you consult a local guide ahead of time and adhere to any safety precautions. If you have any doubts, stay on the shore.

Frostbite is a health concern for those visiting Lake Baikal during the winter months. Try not to leave your skin exposed for too long, and get to a warm place right away if you experience any numbness or tingling in your extremities. There are hospitals in Irkutsk if you need them, but why spoil your vacation? Wear those extra-toasty wool socks and pack a good pair of mittens.

All ice has extraordinary reflective properties, and the vast expanse that covers Lake Baikal is no exception. Wear heavy-duty sunscreen, even if it seems counterintuitive in a cold climate.

Lake Baikal is truly one of the most remarkable places on the planet, from its amazing collection of animal life to its stunning ice hummocks. Don’t miss this unparalleled natural wonder.

15 Truly Unique Experiences To Have In Arizona

Fancy a bit of mining lore, a gunslinger legend or two, pop-culture references galore, and a forest of 225-million-year-old petrified trees?

Well, there’s one place on Earth where you’ll find them all.

Arizona, with its extreme deserts, mountains, and canyons, has a culture all its own. And while every state has its own quirks and phenomena, Arizona lays claim to a host of natural features and activities that set it apart.

With elevations ranging from just 70 feet above sea level along the Colorado River to 12,633 feet in the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff, Arizona spans five distinct climate zones and is home to a wide variety of landscapes.

Here are 15 truly unique experiences that you can only have in the Grand Canyon State.

A moonscape in the Petrified National Forest. — Cindy Barks

1. Visit A Moonscape

Walk among the flat-topped mesas and sculpted buttes of the Petrified Forest National Park in northeastern Arizona, and you’ll surely feel like you’ve been transported to another world — or perhaps merely to the moon.

The park’s Blue Mesa Trail takes hikers into the heart of the otherworldly badlands — an eerie landscape dotted with mounds of petrified wood. The National Park Service describes the petrified wood as 225-million-year-old trees that have been fossilized and are made up of almost solid quartz.

2. Channel The Eagles

If the Eagles were ever your jam, or even if they weren’t, one of the 1970s/1980s rock band’s lines will probably ring a bell.

“Well I’m a-standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona” turned out to be a musical shout-out with staying power. The line from the band’s 1972 hit “Take It Easy” put the small northeastern-Arizona town on the pop-culture map.

Today, the community has immortalized the lyric with the Standin’ on the Corner Park, located along a section of the old Route 66 in downtown Winslow. Complete with a statue of a guitar-wielding man on the corner — and yes, a flatbed Ford — the park offers plenty of fun photo ops for Eagles fans.

Meteor Crater near Flagstaff, Arizona. — turtix / Shutterstock

3. Tour The Crater Made Famous By Starman

It’s nearly a mile across, more than 500 feet deep, and 50,000 years old. Meteor Crater, located about 37 miles east of Flagstaff, is so unusual that it has been featured in a number of science fiction movies. In the 1984 movie Starman, Jeff Bridges’s alien character famously made a run for Meteor Crater.

The crater is said to have formed when a nickel-iron meteorite struck the Earth. An interactive visitors center offers a crater-viewing area, a widescreen theater, and artifacts and exhibits. Guided rim tours are also available.

4. Cross A London Icon

As the story goes, a developer bought the real 1830s-era London Bridge from the City of London in the late 1960s. He then reassembled it in the Colorado River community of Lake Havasu City in a bid to entice tourists and prospective homebuyers.

The stunt paid off. The London Bridge, which crosses a channel of the river, is now one of Arizona’s top tourist attractions.

The Superstition Mountains in Arizona. — JoMo333 / Shutterstock

5. Search For Lost Gold

The search for gold was never easy, and the Lost Dutchman Mine in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains is a case in point. As perhaps the West’s most famous lost gold mine, it has inspired countless legends involving missing maps, treachery, and deathbed confessions.

Today, the fables come alive at Lost Dutchman State Park.

For many, the gorgeous desert terrain in the park and in the nearby Tonto National Forest is even more tempting than the prospect of gold. Routes such as the Peralta Trail take hikers deep into the stark and rugged area and offer glimpses of the famous Weavers Needle.

6. Plummet Down A Natural Waterslide

Sedona’s Red Rocks offer more than just stunning views. At Slide Rock State Park, the sandstone rocks also form an 80-foot-long chute that serves as the ultimate summer waterslide. Algae on the rocks creates a slippery slide for the adventurous.

The state park is located near Oak Creek at the site of an old apple farm.

Food and drinks from the El Tovar Hotel. — Cindy Barks

7. Enjoy A Happy Hour Near A Natural Wonder

Both complementing and contrasting with the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon is the historic El Tovar Hotel, a former Harvey House built in 1903.

While the restaurant offers elegant dining, another option is the hotel’s lounge, which features a small adjoining veranda overlooking the canyon — it’s the perfect spot for an after-hike happy hour as the setting sun illuminates the natural wonder.

8. Travel Back In Time To The Wild West

The Earps made Tombstone their own back in the 1880s, and now you can, too. The southern-Arizona community known as “The Town Too Tough to Die” offers nonstop Western action along its wooden sidewalks, including reenactments of the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

Burros at Phantom Ranch in Arizona. — GPSmith / Shutterstock

9. Stay At A Historic Lodge

For decades the Phantom Ranch has served as a shady oasis for weary hikers and mule riders who have ventured deep into the Grand Canyon. The 1922 lodge offers a store with basic provisions, as well as a dormitory and cabins, and is located near the banks of the Colorado River.

10. Walk Among Giants

Known for its massive pipe-like trunks reaching toward the sky, the organ pipe cactus is unique to one isolated spot in the United States — the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, located in southern Arizona near the Mexican border. A walk among the spiky giants is sure to make you feel small, but in a good way.

11. Dine In An Asylum

Jerome was once known as “The Wickedest Town in the West,” and its Asylum Restaurant is a reminder of the days when the 1926 building served as a hospital for the raucous mining community perched on the side of a mountain.

Although never actually an insane asylum, the building that houses the restaurant and hotel has a slightly spooky vibe that makes it a popular destination for ghost hunters.

Browsing jewelry at a Navajo Flea Market. — Cindy Barks

12. Browse A Navajo Flea Market

Navajo specialties such as frybread, kneeldown bread (Navajo tamales), and blue-corn mush don’t come any more authentic than they do at the Tuba City Flea Market. Along with an assortment of home-cooked Native American foods, the market offers a huge array of turquoise jewelry, colorful blankets, and native-inspired pottery.

Tuba City is located near the eastern edge of the vast Navajo Nation in northern Arizona, about 80 miles north of Flagstaff.

13. Refresh At A Route 66 Soda Counter

If it’s a vintage Route 66 experience you’re after, the Hackberry General Store will more than fit the bill. The former mining town in northwestern Arizona evolved over the years into a service station/general store featuring old signage and gas pumps, antique cars, and an authentic soda counter.

The general store is located on a scenic but isolated stretch of the old Route 66, about 30 miles northeast of Kingman.

14. Cliff Jump Into Spring Water

Perhaps no water feature in arid Arizona is more special than Fossil Creek. At a temperature of 70 degrees, water gushes from Fossil Springs at the bottom of a deep canyon on its way to the Verde River.

The calcium carbonate-rich water has a beautiful blue-green color, which adds to the appeal of the area. One of only two Wild and Scenic Rivers in Arizona, Fossil Creek attracts crowds of visitors despite its remote location. Many climb the cliffs above the falls to dive into the deep pools.

“Because of its beauty and year-round water, people are drawn to this area,” states the Coconino National Forest website. “The lushness of the riparian area strikes a sharp contrast to the dry and sparse desert vegetation that surrounds it.”

Permits are required to access the creek between April 1 and October 1.

15. Ride A Mule Through The Grand Canyon

Teams of mules provide a distinctly Arizonan mode of transportation to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. A local company offers overnight trips down the steep Bright Angel Trail and up the South Kaibab Trail the next day. The trips include a stay in the cabins at the historic Phantom Ranch.

A great alternative to hiking, the mule rides give visitors an opportunity to take in the cliffs of the canyon’s Inner Gorge, the Colorado River, and the panoramic views along the South Kaibab Trail. Space is limited.

Planning a trip to Arizona? See our other articles on the Grand Canyon State to learn more about the hiking trails, parks, petroglyphs, and natural wonders the area has to offer.

8 Totally Free Things To Do In San Francisco

While the City by the Bay is known for having one of the most expensive real estate and rental markets in the United States, you can still enjoy a budget-friendly getaway there. San Francisco’s no-cost attractions include everything from natural wonders to flea markets.

Here are eight totally free things to do in San Francisco. Each one is sure to make your next visit a memorable (and cheap!) one.

1. Enjoy The San Francisco Botanical Garden

Located in beautiful Golden Gate Park, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is one of the natural gems of the Golden City. And fortunately for budget-conscious travelers, it offers free admission for early birds every day from 7:30 a.m. until 9 a.m. And if you happen to be visiting on the second Tuesday of the month, you’ll be able to enter for free at any time of the day! Regular admission prices are $6 for youth and seniors, $9 for adults, and $2 for children.

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a natural wonder, with 55 acres of winding pathways, secret gardens, centuries-old redwoods, water features, and more. You’ll find an entire hill of succulents, more than 9,000 types of plants, and rotating exhibits throughout the year, so be sure to get up early and head over to the park to earn free admission to this lovely place in San Francisco.

Pro tip: While you’re in Golden Gate Park, consider participating in disc golf. That’s another free activity available in the area.

The Coit Tower Murals in San Francisco. — ChameleonsEye / Shutterstock

2. See The Coit Tower Murals

One of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks is Coit Tower. Located atop one of the city’s seven hills, Telegraph Hill, the tower features beautiful murals. You can see the murals from the ground floor of the tower, which is free to access. If you would like a bird’s-eye view of San Francisco, you can purchase tickets for the elevator; they range in price from $2 to $8 and can include a guided tour. The Coit Tower was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.

Surrounding Coit Tower is the pretty Pioneer Park. This natural area is also free to access and is famous for its parrot residents. Pioneer Park would make an ideal setting for a lunchtime or sunset picnic.

People crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. — GCapture / Shutterstock

3. Cross The Golden Gate Bridge

No visit to San Francisco would be complete without a trip to the city’s signature site, the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. While cars do pay a toll, walking or biking across the bridge is absolutely free. The bridge is roughly 1.7 miles across, so if you’d like to experience the beauty of the bay from the bridge itself, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Before you go, grab a bite to eat at the café on the city side. Be prepared for the bridge to be busy — about 10 million people visit it each year!

The Painted Ladies in San Francisco. — Luciano Mortula / Shutterstock

4. Admire The Painted Ladies

Another signature San Francisco sight is the iconic row of Queen Anne homes in Alamo Square. The opening credits of the sitcom Full House have helped to make the area one of the most photographed in the whole city. You can experience the green space in the square — and take photographs of the houses with the stunning San Francisco cityscape behind them — for free. If you’d like to tour the homes, however, you’ll have to pay a fee.

Please note that the home from Full House had a fictional address (1882 Gerard), so don’t try to find it using a map. The home that was used wasn’t one of the famous painted ladies from the show’s opening credits. It sits at 1709 Broderick Street in the Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood, and the show’s producer owns the home now.

Land's End in San Francisco. — Mookyoung Jeong / Shutterstock

5. Hike To Lands End

This northwestern corner of San Francisco boasts stunning sea views and a beautiful rocky landscape. It is free to access and links up to the 1.5-mile Coastal Trail. Be sure to apply plenty of bug spray and put on comfortable shoes before heading out on a hike.

Lands End offers views of old shipwrecks, plus chances to see wildlife like seabirds and otters. The park adjacent to the lookout point features a Holocaust memorial and options for those interested in biking rather than hiking.

6. Browse The Offerings At Fog City Flea

Each Sunday at the Ferry Building, San Francisco hosts a huge flea market. Known as the Fog City Flea, this is another great free activity to enjoy during the summer or fall months. It’s located in the pretty Embarcadero waterfront area, where you can enjoy a scenic walk, see the famous seals, experience the farmers market, watch the cruise ships depart, and see ferries cycle to and from Alcatraz at any time of the year. Obviously, shopping at the flea market is not free, but wandering around and chatting with the vendors won’t cost you a cent!

Lombard Street in San Francisco. — f11photo / Shutterstock

7. Drive One Of The World’s Curviest Streets

San Francisco is also known for its famous Lombard Street, said to be one of the world’s curviest roads. It’s actually quite a long street, but one specific block in a residential area contains eight hairpin turns. You can drive down this wacky street for a scenic good time. Even if you don’t have a car, you can experience and enjoy the street as a pedestrian.

Please note that the crooked portion of the street can be found between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets.

Presidio park in San Francisco. — TanyaBird / Shutterstock

8. Picnic In The Presidio

Another no-cost San Francisco activity is picnicking in the 1,500-acre Presidio park adjacent to the Golden Gate Bridge. The Presidio Picnic takes place every Sunday from March through October on the Main Parade Lawn. This community event features food trucks plus a host of free activities like yoga, yard games, and a photo booth. You’ll need to bring money if you want to purchase grub from any of the 30 or so food trucks selling cuisine from all over the world, but you’re welcome to bring your own food.

The Presidio itself is both a California Historic Landmark and a National Historic Landmark and offers gorgeous woodlands and beautiful water and bridge vistas.

Even an expensive city like San Francisco offers free hidden gems and famous sites for visitors to explore. Want to eat out in San Francisco while sticking to your budget? Check out our guide to the city’s best budget-friendly restaurants. And if you have more time in the area, consider a day trip or two.

How To Spend A Day On St. Barts

It’s not difficult to find an idyllic escape in the Caribbean. But laid-back luxury has never come together with European elegance quite like it does in St. Barts. This jewel of an island seamlessly fuses French flair with magnificent tropical landscapes. Picture a fine bottle of chilled rose with a backdrop of lush mountains, powder-soft sand, lusciously scented frangipanis, and yachts that lilt atop turquoise waves. St. Barts is undoubtedly the Caribbean’s darling when it comes to the playgrounds of the rich and famous. Expect fabulous hotels, world-class dining, and designer shopping along with unique French and Caribbean history that dates back centuries.

In 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated much of the island and its hotels and restaurants. But after a careful, dedicated, and passionate effort to rebuild and renew, St. Barts is 100 percent back in business and ready to show off its new look.

But what if you only have one day to see and do it all? This seems overwhelming, to say the least, as there are so many fantastic spots to visit. That said, St. Barts is only 10 square miles, so it’s entirely possible to tackle its very best in a single day. Here’s your guide for the best way to spend a day in St. Barts.

Colombier Beach in St. Barts. — Przemyslaw Skibinski / Shutterstock

Set The Scene With Private Views

There’s no better way to set the scene for your day in St. Barts than with a hike to Colombier Beach. One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Colombier Beach is a crescent-shaped bay of turquoise water fringed with powdery sand and emerald-colored hills. What’s even more special about this beach is that it is only accessible by boat or hike. And trust us, the hike is worth it. It begins directly off the end of Flamands. Keep in mind it can be a strenuous hike. It is best to begin early in the morning before the heat of the day kicks in. Pack snacks, water, and plenty of sunscreen. If this hike isn’t in the cards for you and your travel companions, consider chartering a boat to Colombier Beach.

Aerial view of Gustavia. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Get Your Bearings In Gustavia

Seventy years ago, Gustavia, the capital of St. Barts, was just a sleepy fishing village. But the 1960s brought huge investments from jet-setting A-listers like the Rockefellers and Rothschilds, celebrities, and wealthy Europeans. The Gustavia of today is a thriving seaport where glamorous glitterati stroll the lovely promenades. The streets are flanked with upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants, historic sites, and that iconic French-Caribbean flair.

Here in Gustavia, you’ll find most of the island’s acclaimed restaurants and bars as well as Shell Beach, which is just a short stroll from the harbor and is one of the most photographed on St. Barts. If you’ve rented your own villa, be sure to stop at the fish market to pick up the day’s catch, from marlin and dorado to tuna and lobster.

Saline Beach in St. Barts. — Sandra Foyt / Shutterstock

Hit The Beach

When on vacation on a Caribbean island, a beach day seems to be sort of a given. Fortunately, St. Barts has some of the most idyllic in all of the Caribbean, so you will have your pick — and all the beaches on St. Barts are free.

Saline is one of the most beautiful, and pristine, on the island. This no-frills beach has just the essentials: sun, sand, and crystal-clear water. Just be forewarned that it is BYO-everything. Shell Beach is another fan-favorite, known for having crushed seashells instead of sand. Those looking to soak up the St. Barts scene won’t want to miss St. Jean Beach, home to the fabulous Eden Rock hotel and Nikki Beach, a luxury beach club.

Enjoy A “Pique-Nique”

Al fresco dining is one thing, but you can take it to the next level by planning the perfect St. Barts picnic. Stock up on provisions at Maya’s To Go. From smoked salmon on brioche for breakfast to a host of delicious sandwiches, cauliflower gratin, onion tarts, and more, Maya’s combines French flavors with authentic island ingredients for a truly unique dining experience. Stop into Le Gout du Vin as well. This specialty shop carries more than 800 labels of wine. It’s also the supplier for the top restaurants and bars across many Caribbean islands. Pick up your favorite bottle of chilled rose, and the picnic procurement is done. Just add a beach blanket and be on your way.

A scuba diver off the coast of St. Barts. — bcampbell65 / Shutterstock

Marvel At The Island’s Underwater Paradise

St. Barts is very much invested in preserving the aquatic habitat that surrounds it. In the late 1990s, the island created the Natural Reserve of St. Barthelemy, which includes five sanctuary zones around the island that provide protection of underwater ecosystems. Tourists can dive, boat, and fish while still adhering to the reserve’s regulations, and it’s entirely worth the experience to be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of colors and species that thrive beneath the lapping turquoise waves. The island is surrounded by shallow reefs with 22 dive sites. Be sure to explore the upside-down wreck of the Nonstop, a fancy yacht that sunk in 1989 during Hurricane Hugo.

Treat Yourself A Few Hours At A Decadent Spa

As the ultimate playground for the rich and famous, St. Barts does spa culture justice. Pampering isn’t just a perk — it’s a way of life. One of the best places to treat yourself is the spa at Le Barthelemy Hotel and Spa. Le Spa is a pocket of pure serenity with treatments for the mind and body. This holistic escape has an open-air atrium that invites the outdoors in, plus a full menu of pampering therapies. Indulge in a facial with La Mer products, or upgrade your look at the nail salon or blow-out bar.

Colombier Beach (Anse de Colombier) in St Barths. — Przemyslaw Skibinski / Shutterstock.com

Drink In Swanky Sunsets

For those in the know, Hotel Christopher is a front-row seat to the island’s best sunsets. This is the best place to pull up a beach chair, sip a frosty tropical drink, and take in nature’s spectacular show. The hotel is very welcoming to non-guests. Grab a seat at Mango Beach Club for a barefoot luxe experience, or step up the elegance at Christo Lounge Restaurant, which overlooks the pool and the beach. Hotel Christopher specializes in organic cocktails and has an impressive wine list, to boot. You won’t regret ending the day in such sweet style.

Get Ready To Rock And Roll

Get into the island groove at Baz Bar, a Gustavia hot spot known for its live music — from reggae and rock to funk and blues — and hosting international DJs. The low-key venue on the harbor is plastered with celebrity-signed posters and has an on-site restaurant that serves top-quality sushi.

Inside Orega restaurant in Gustavia. — Orega

Eating In St. Barts

Breakfast on St. Barts doesn’t get better than Kiki-e Mo. This simple, healthy, colorful cafe in St. Jean offers French, American, and “Royal” breakfasts with set menu items. Bloody Maries and Prosecco Mimosas add to the Royal Breakfast’s regal status. Kiki-e Mo also offers fresh juice and yogurt, pastries, and delectable avocado toast.

If you’re more of a brunch person, everyone’s favorite weekend meal doesn’t get more lavish and glamorous than the offerings at Nikki Beach. The ultimate in barefoot chic, this beachside scene in St. Jean recently re-debuted following hurricane damage and is showing off an upgraded and refreshed look. Their brunch is absolutely legendary, so be prepared to indulge and keep your plans for the rest of the day loose. It’s unlikely that you’ll be getting anywhere on time as you’ll want to linger here.

Iconic Shell Beach may be known for the colorful shells that carpet the seaside, but it’s also known for the delicious evening cocktails and gorgeous sunset views at Shellona. This completely open-air bar and restaurant is a wonderful place to kick back and reflect on a fabulous day. We hear the Shell Spicy Dream cocktail is to die for.

If you only have one day in St. Barts, deciding where to eat dinner can be a challenge. But if there’s one restaurant to try, it has to be Orega, an intimate French-Japanese fusion experience. You’ll be treating yourself to one of the most unique dinners in the Caribbean. Orega is located in Gustavia just a few steps from the Anglican Church.

Shopping In St. Barts

With an emphasis on quality, the finer things, and barefoot luxury, you can imagine that the shopping scene on St. Barts is top notch. From local handcrafts to designer boutiques, St. Barts has some of the best shopping in the Caribbean.

Peruse the one-of-a-kind treasures at Mignot St Barth, an understated, luxe shop in the middle of downtown Gustavia. Browse their selection of black Tahitian pearls that have been transformed into bohemian jewelry, adorned leather bracelets, and more.

Looking for that special memento from your vacation? Baya, also in Gustavia, may have just what you’re looking for. This unique, boho-chic home goods store is evocative of a whimsical yet upscale bazaar. From cowhide rugs and colorful bags to wooden bowls, pillows, and vinyl mats, this eclectic shop has a little bit of everything.

En route to Salines Beach, just off the main thoroughfare in Saint-Jean, Yume St. Barth is a spacious yet subdued shop with handmade items, from table runners and jewelry to stuffed animals and more.