8 Amazing Virginia Foods To Try And Where To Find Them

Virginia’s foods are as varied as the state’s landscapes. Each region of the state — from the Chesapeake Bay and the Coastal Plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Plateau — produces its own delicious specialties. Seafood is at the top of the list, of course — oysters and crab are abundant in the Chesapeake Bay — but Virginia is known for beef production, too. You’ll also find lots of local produce, including peanuts, artichokes, and blackberries, plus Southern favorites like pimento cheese and fried chicken.

On your next trip to Virginia, be sure to indulge in some of the foods the state does best.

Blue crabs from Tim's Rivershore Restaurant & Crabhouse — Blue crab from Tim’s Rivershore Restaurant & Crabhouse. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

1. Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab

You may have heard of Maryland crab, but you probably didn’t know that most Maryland crabs are born in Virginia. Crab mating occurs in the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay, but the female blue crab travels to the saltier Virginia waters, sperm packet in tow, to release and fertilize the eggs.

The soft-shell crab is eaten during its molting stage — soft-shell crab season extends from late spring to early fall. Once it sheds its shell, the blue crab experiences a growth season, providing a feast of hard-shell crab from April through November. Both varieties are available frozen at any time of year, but fresh blue crab is a treat you shouldn’t miss.

Where To Find It

In Prince William County, head to the waterfront, where Tim’s Rivershore Restaurant & Crabhouse sits at one of the widest points of the Potomac River and offers panoramic views of the river and beach. Eating blue crab is an exercise in patience, since it’s messy and sometimes hard on the fingers, but crab lovers swear that it’s worth the effort.

The owner, Tim Bauckman, told TravelAwaits that during peak season, some diners will spend the day shelling crab and enjoying the delicacy.

“It’s a long process to eat them, but it becomes an event and a way for people to connect over a meal,” said Bauckman.

Visit Hampton, Virginia, and you’ll find a family-run crabbing business that’s been around since 1942: Graham & Rollins. Nichole Leighton, Graham & Rollins’s marketing specialist, told TravelAwaits that the city of Hampton was once nicknamed “Crabtown U.S.A.” because of the large number of crab processors that could be found on its waterfront. Graham & Rollins is the only one that still exists.

Stop by the Graham & Rollins Seafood Market to purchase fresh-caught seafood, or head next door to the family’s restaurant for some soft-shell crab and she-crab soup.

“The soft-shell crabs are considered a delicacy in Virginia. They are only available for about five months a year fresh. Usually, they start arriving with the first full moon of May. Once a crab molts, it must be removed from the water within a few hours, or the shell will begin to harden again. Gathering peeler crabs — crabs that are starting to molt — and maintaining them until they become soft-shells is considered one of the oldest forms of aquaculture in the U.S. During processing, the soft-shell is cleaned and fried. Each person usually has their own version of a coating — most use cornmeal and/or flour and seasonings. End-of-season soft-shell crabs can be frozen for up to one year,” said Leighton.

Brisket meal from Brown Chicken Brown Cow — Brisket plate from Brown Chicken Brown Cow. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

2. Beef

Cattle first arrived in Virginia in the late 1500s — they were brought over by the earliest immigrants to the region. Now cattle can be found in every county in Virginia, and there are an estimated 675,000 cattle in the state. A whopping 97 percent of Virginia beef operations are family owned, and the average herd size is only 30. Virginia beef includes conventional beef, 100 percent Certified Angus beef, certified organic beef, grass-finished beef, and more.

Where To Find It

In downtown Hampton, you’ll find Brown Chicken Brown Cow, a chic restaurant that specializes in hamburgers and barbecue. Although the restaurant is known for its grass-fed burgers, its brisket — which is smoked for 10 hours with a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic — is also flavorful and tender.

While you’re there, be sure to try one of the ice cream floats made with locally sourced, antibiotic-free and hormone-free milk. Choose from wholesome options like strawberry milk and coffee, or go bold with one of the boozy floats.

Beef is also on the menu at Kybecca in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Wade Troung, executive chef at Kybecca, told TravelAwaits, “One of the things that makes Kybecca unique is that we are not tied to one type of cuisine. Our food and beverage offerings change seasonally, and we basically serve whatever we think is tasty, fun, and unique. We utilize traditional as well as modern cooking techniques, which allows us to make the best of prime ingredients as well as change the texture and taste of lesser-known ingredients.”

The 36-hour chuck eye is one such ingredient, and it’s one of the restaurant’s bestselling dishes.

“We’ve taken a cut that was traditionally only used for braising, and through sous-vide cooking we’ve made it into a prime tender cut. You get deep, beefy flavor and a tender steak texture. We rub the meat with a house blend of spices, pair it with local asparagus that is simply seasoned and grilled, and top that off with porcini-mushroom-infused demi-glace,” said Troung.

Peanut soup from the King's Arms Tavern — Peanut soup from the King’s Arms Tavern. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

3. Peanuts

Peanuts have a long history in Virginia, with the first commercial peanut crops being grown in the state in the 1840s. A much-loved Virginia specialty is peanut soup.

Where To Find Them

The King’s Arms Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, serves traditional peanut soup. A Southern favorite and a King’s Arms specialty, the soup is garnished with peanuts and served with sippets, or small pieces of toast.

“Today’s menu items are 18th-century recipes adapted for 21st-century tastes and methods. Some of the more unusual items come straight from colonial cookery books,” said Keith Nickerson, the director of the culinary historic area of Williamsburg.

Olde Salt oysters from Rappahannock Restaurant — Oysters from Rappahannock Restaurant. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

4. Oysters

Virginia’s seafood industry is one of the oldest and largest in the U.S., and the state is the top oyster producer on the East Coast. It’s no wonder that Virginia oysters are legendary!

Where To Find Them

To explore the oyster region, try the Virginia Oyster Trail.

In Richmond, Virginia, the Rappahannock Restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, but you can’t leave without trying the Olde Salt oysters.

Chicken and waffles from Iron Horse Restaurant. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

5. Southern Fried Chicken

The classic Southern fried chicken recipe involves a buttermilk bath and spices. The result? Fried chicken that is crunchy on the outside and juicy and flavorful on the inside.

Where To Find It

In Ashland, Virginia, the Iron Horse Restaurant serves premium chicken and waffles at Sunday brunch. The sweet and savory flavors make a delightful meal. Be sure to try the artichoke soup, too!

At the King’s Arms Tavern, the Mrs. Vobe’s Tavern Dinner features Southern fried chicken. Three large pieces of chicken crowd the plate, leaving just enough space for mashed potatoes and a vegetable of your choice.

Pimento cheese toast from Foode. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

6. Pimento Cheese

The South’s favorite cheese spread, pimento cheese, can be found at many Virginia restaurants. The simple blend of Cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and sweet peppers is delicious with ham (another Virginia specialty), melted on toast, or as a succulent sopper for a savory dish.

Where To Find It

In Ashland, the Ashland Meat Company at Cross Brothers Grocery sells a barbecue ham sandwich that oozes with Southern flavor. It consists of pimento cheese, local chopped ham, and barbecue sauce on a bun.

For a more sophisticated taste of pimento cheese, visit Foode in Fredericksburg, a farm-to-table restaurant in an old bank building, and order one (or more) of the pimento cheese toasts.

Shrimp and grits from Foode. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

7. Shrimp

You can’t leave Virginia without trying another seafood specialty: shrimp. It’s especially delectable when it’s served in the traditional Southern style with grits.

Where To Find It

Shrimp and grits alone are delicious, but Foode adds onions, bell peppers, celery, grilled bread, and house-made sausage to the dish for a salty, savory spin on the old favorite.

Pie from Mom's Apple Pie Company — Pie from Mom’s Apple Pie Company. *Photo Credit:* *Jill Dutton*

8. Fruit

According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, farms make up 32 percent of Virginia’s total land area and are spread over more than 8.1 million acres. Virginia’s agricultural production is one of the most diverse in the nation, and the state ranks in the top 10 for many fruits, including apples, grapes, and fresh-market tomatoes.

Where To Find It

Mom’s Apple Pie Company in Prince William County serves up pie in every flavor imaginable. “Mom” — Avis Renshaw, the founder — started the business back in 1981, and it now employs four generations. The family is dedicated to using natural, preservative-free ingredients. They aim to grow as much of their own fruit as possible, and they use their own strawberries, rhubarb, raspberries, blackberries, and pumpkins in their pies. They want the fruit to be the focus, so they use sugar sparingly. Plus, they make a flaky crust that enhances the natural flavor of the fruit.

10 Things To Do In New Orleans Besides Visiting Bourbon Street

You can spend hours wandering the streets of the French Quarter, the oldest section of the city of New Orleans. The city just celebrated its tricentennial, so it’s no surprise that history can be found on every corner. You can hear it in the soulful jazz performances, smell it in the melting pot of cuisines being served, and see it preserved through generations of traditions.

The next time you find yourself in the Big Easy, skip overcrowded Bourbon Street and try these 10 things instead.

Jackson Square in New Orleans, Louisiana. — Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

1. Stroll Through Jackson Square

A visit to New Orleans must include a stop at beautiful Jackson Square. Modeled after the Place des Vosges in Paris, the 2.5 acres served as a market and military center when New Orleans was a French colony.

New Orleans changed hands from France to Spain, to France again, and finally to the United States through the Louisiana Purchase. After Major General (and future President) Andrew Jackson defended New Orleans from the British in 1812, the square was named in his honor.

Jackson Square has since become an iconic landmark of New Orleans, and it welcomes more than 2 million visitors each year. Stroll through the square, people-watch from various benches, and gaze at the magnificent Saint Louis Cathedral. Although the square itself closes in the evenings, the perimeter of the square is always alive with artists showcasing their work against the iron fence.

2. Groove To Jazz Music On Frenchmen Street

Bourbon Street is to tourists what Frenchmen Street is to locals.

That’s not to say that tourists don’t meander over to Frenchmen Street, but the locals know that you go to Frenchmen Street to enjoy the best jazz.

A half-mile walk from Bourbon Street will land you in the middle of a bustling street lined with restaurants and bars. Live music streams out of open doors and windows into the street, inviting passersby to peek inside. Featuring both local musicians like the Hot 8 Brass Band and national stars like Jimmy Buffett, Frenchmen Street provides entertainment every day of the week.

Go to The Spotted Cat’s cozy venue for jazz, blues, funk, and an occasional swing dance. If music, food, and drinks are more your flavor, visit Three Muses to get a hearty filling! Whichever bar or restaurant you choose, it’ll be a musically memorable evening out.

commander's palace — William A. Morgan / Shutterstock

3. Explore The Garden District

Just a short streetcar ride from the French Quarter is the beautiful, serene Garden District, known for its remarkable mansions, oak-lined streets, and distinguished restaurants. A stroll through this neighborhood is essential. What started out as several plantations with large gardens has become an immaculately maintained urban district.

Many actors, authors, and athletes reside in the Garden District. Take a free guided tour or self-guided tour of the neighborhood and admire the mansions of Sandra Bullock, Anne Rice, and Archie Manning.

End your tour at Commander’s Palace, right across from the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, for lunch (11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and 25-cent martinis. If you’re visiting on a weekend, be sure to attend the jazz brunch featuring a seasonal menu.

4. Visit The Museums

Although history seems to be tucked behind every board and stone in this picturesque city, there’s nothing like a classic museum to transport you back in time. Voted the third-best museum in the U.S. by travelers on TripAdvisor, the National World War II Museum in New Orleans is captivating in both its architecture and its exhibits. You’ll leave with a new perspective on the war that changed the world.

Across the street from the National World War II Museum is the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, home to one of the largest collections of Southern art in the country. Ogden’s mission is to “broaden the knowledge, understanding, interpretation, and appreciation of the visual arts and culture of the American South.”

One block north of the Ogden Museum is Julia Street, renowned for its art galleries. Although this area stored imported goods in the 19th century, it’s now referred to as Gallery Row. On the first Saturday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the galleries invite guests to see new exhibits.

5. Take An Unconventional French Quarter Tour

An incredibly beautiful part of the city, the French Quarter brims with tours of all kinds. Whether you fancy ghosts, vampires, voodoo, or gastronomy, there are 422 acres of the French Quarter to explore.

Gaze at the intricately designed homes while enjoying haunting tales of the people who lived in them. Ghost tours take visitors through the supernatural world, exploring stories of lost love, revenge, and evil.

Continue experiencing the paranormal on a voodoo tour that delves deep into the practices, notable people, and noteworthy places of this misunderstood religion. You’ll learn what voodoo really is, why it’s a belief system based on love, and how its reputation became twisted over the years.

If you didn’t lose your appetite during the spooky and mysterious tours, you can enjoy a top-notch food tour that covers the best dishes New Orleans has to offer. From jambalaya, red beans and rice, and shrimp étouffée to inventive cocktails, the Big Easy has it all. You’ll undoubtedly fall into a food coma upon returning to your hotel room.

Beignets from Café Du Monde in New Orleans — Kelli Hayden / Shutterstock

6. Indulge In Sugary Beignets

Beignets, or soft, pillowy doughnuts topped with powdered sugar, are gobbled up by tourists and locals alike. This addictive dessert originated in 16th-century France and traveled across the ocean to Louisiana.

Opened in 1862, Café Du Monde, located across from Jackson Square, is the beignet master. For a complete meal, pair your three beignets ($2.75) with a French Market chicory coffee or a café au lait. A true expert in the beignets-and-coffee field, the café serves nothing else. And fortunately for tourists, Café Du Monde sells packaged boxes of its beignet mix to bring home.

Café Beignet, just a few blocks from Café Du Monde, also sells classic beignets. Head to The Vintage in the Garden District for unconventional beignet flavors like s’mores, raspberry, and coffee. Bakery Bar also puts a twist on the simple beignet with its daily beignets du jour. During Mardi Gras, it offers king cake beignets topped with yellow, green, and purple sprinkles.

7. Float Down The Mississippi River

Revolutionary in the 19th century, steam-powered boats soon made their way to New Orleans. Commonly used for trade, steamboats were faster than other forms of transportation. Once trains became common, however, steamboats became places of entertainment.

There are two options for exploring the Mississippi River on a steamboat: the Steamboat Natchez and the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. Both provide cruises down the river with buffet meals, jazz music, and spectacular views of New Orleans from the water.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or you’re just celebrating a special occasion, you’ll enjoy this method of transportation from a different era.

Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans, Louisiana — travelview / Shutterstock

8. Discover The Above-Ground Cemeteries

Living in a city that’s located below sea level has its challenges, and many visitors to New Orleans wonder what happens to the deceased. The solution? Above-ground cemeteries.

Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the most famous cemetery in New Orleans; it attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year. Founded by the French in 1789, it’s the city’s oldest functioning cemetery.

To prevent vandalism, the cemetery only allows visitors to enter with a tour group. Seeing the hauntingly beautiful graves is worth the $20 entrance fee. You’ll be able to visit the vault of the most widely known voodoo queen, Marie Laveau, and the pyramid tomb installed by Nicolas Cage.

A Louisiana swamp just outside of New Orleans — David Litman / Shutterstock

9. Encounter Swamp Wildlife

Going on a swamp tour will give you an understanding of what New Orleans was like before it became a city.

There are two types of tours: airboat tours and swamp boat tours. Swamp boats are the most popular, since they can accommodate more visitors. Faster and smaller, airboats are boats with large fans on the back.

Regardless of the tour you book, you’ll see a lot of wildlife. The swamps are full of alligators, raccoons, nutrias, turtles, and birds.

Since alligators are cold-blooded, the best time to take a swamp tour is during the fall or spring. Most animals hide during the winter. In the summer, the animals sunbathe, but most visitors find the heat and humidity uncomfortable.

If you’re staying in New Orleans, consider taking a swamp tour with a plantation tour. Packages usually include a plantation tour in the morning and a swamp tour in the afternoon (or vice versa).

10. Remember The Lives Of The Enslaved

Without the fusion of the French, Spanish, Creole, West African, and Haitian cultures, New Orleans wouldn’t be the city that it is today. For example, okra, a New Orleans favorite and a staple of Southern cooking, originated in the West African culinary tradition. It’s important to learn about the enslaved people of New Orleans and the atrocities they endured — and to realize at what cost you are enjoying the melting-pot culture of New Orleans.

Within an hour of New Orleans are several historic plantations, including Whitney Plantation, Laura Plantation, and Oak Alley Plantation. Each shows a different side of plantation life, but Whitney Plantation is the only one that focuses exclusively on the lives of the enslaved. Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll hear the stories of 350 enslaved people who were held against their will at Whitney Plantation. It’s a harrowing and truly eye-opening experience that everyone should have when visiting New Orleans.

Photo Credit: Alexander Lukatskiy / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Mike Flippo / Shutterstock

Phoenix Day Trip: Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Located 3 miles west of Superior, Arizona, and just over 60 miles from Phoenix, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden.

Dedicated to fostering education, recreation, research, and conservation opportunities associated with arid-land plants, the arboretum features flora from the Arizona desert and deserts around the world.

Set alongside unspoiled native Sonoran Desert vegetation with a backdrop of rock formations, Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers both beautiful walks and the chance to learn more about desert vegetation.

And it’s all close enough to make a great day trip from Phoenix.

Plant life at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum — Donna Janke

History Of Boyce Thompson Arboretum

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum was founded by natural resource developer and philanthropist Colonel William Boyce Thompson.

One of his ventures was Magma Mine in Superior. He built a home, Picket Post, in the Arizona hills, and shortly thereafter purchased over 400 acres of land around the property. He selected Franklin J. Cider of the University of Arizona to establish an arboretum on a portion of that land in the 1920s. Its initial mission was to study the plants of the desert and to make the results available to the public.

The arboretum entered into an agreement with the University of Arizona in the 1960s. It became part of the Arizona State Parks system in 1976. In July of 2019, it became a 501c3 nonprofit.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum Trails

Over 3 miles of nature trails weave through the arboretum. The trails take you past gardens and exhibits that recreate various deserts of the world and offer scenic views of the arboretum and the land around it. When walking the trails, be sure to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, and always stay on the path.

Main Loop Trail

The Arboretum Main Trail 1.5 miles long. It begins at the visitor center and is the main trail through the garden. You should allow at least 2 hours to walk the trail and its offshoots.

The trail goes past the Smith Interpretive Center; through the Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden, the Heritage Rose Garden, the Children’s Horticultural Garden, the Taylor Family Desert Legume Garden, and the Cactus and Succulents Garden; and past Ayer Lake before connecting with the Steep Trail. It then takes you past the Wing Memorial Herb Garden, a eucalyptus forest, and a ceremonial stone labyrinth. At the herb garden, be sure to visit the Clevenger House. This stone-and-mortar building was home to a homesteading family of five in the early 1900s. Today, the arboretum uses the house for drying and displaying herbs.

The Steep Trail takes you to the Upland Sonoran Natural Area. Although the trail has a few steep sections and drop-offs, it is not overly strenuous. It offers scenic views of the natural desert mountainside. It also gives you views of the west-facing wall and windows of the 7,000-square-foot Picket Post mansion perched on the volcanic cliffs.

Numerous named and unnamed trails branch off from the Main Loop Trail. The 0.2-mile Magma Ridge Trail takes you through the volcanic cliffs leading to the Cactus and Succulents Garden. The 0.3-mile Chihuahuan Desert Trail features plants from every part of the Chihuahuan Desert. Several connected trails wind through an Australian desert exhibit. These trails include the 0.2-mile Adelaide Track, the 0.1-mile Blue Bush Loop Trail, the 0.1-mile Gum Bark Trail, and the 0.1-mile Walkabout Trail. The 0.2-mile South American Desert Trail showcases plants from the Cuyo, Monte, and Chaco regions of Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia.

Only half of the main trail is accessible to those in wheelchairs and to those who use walkers, canes, or crutches. Signs on the trails branching off the Mail Loop Trail indicate accessibility. The Demonstration Garden, the Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden, and the Children’s Horticultural Garden are all wheelchair accessible.

High Trail

The High Trail is a more challenging 0.45-mile path through rugged terrain in the Upland Sonoran Natural Area. It connects with the Main Loop Trail and crosses Queen Creek, offering panoramic views of the area.

Tip: On a hot day, you may want to hike the High Trail and the Steep Trail first thing in the morning, before the heat makes the climb more difficult and less comfortable.

Curandero Trail

The Curandero Trail is a 0.3-mile trail near the visitor center. It exhibits native medicinal and edible plants. In Mexican-American culture, curanderos are traditional healers who use herbal medicines to treat various conditions. Signs provide information about the plants’ natural habitats as well as their uses. The trail is relatively short, but you will want to take your time to read about the various plant remedies and the ways plants can be used as varnishes, dyes, food, skin products, and fuel.

Cacti at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum — Donna Janke

Boyce Thompson Arboretum Gardens

The arboretum is home to numerous gardens. These areas aren’t specifically sectioned off but rather flow from one to the next as you walk the trail.

The first garden you’ll encounter is the Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden. Although this is a good area to see hummingbirds and butterflies, birds and butterflies are not limited to this section. You will hear birds and spot butterflies throughout the arboretum.

The 300 species of cacti and succulents in the Cactus and Succulents Garden include saguaros, prickly pears, twisted chollas, barrel cacti, and hedgehogs. Cacti produce delicate and intensely colorful flowers that will make a late-spring visit to the arboretum particularly memorable.

The Taylor Family Desert Legume Garden contains mesquite, peanuts, beans, ironwood, and the palo verde, Arizona’s state tree, which is ablaze with yellow flowers in April.

The water-efficient residential theme plots in the Demonstration Garden show ways to live in harmony with the desert by choosing appropriate plant species.

The Wing Memorial Garden contains herbs that have flavored food and healed the sick for centuries. There is also a Heritage Rose Garden.

The Smith Interpretive Center, built of quarried stone, highlights cacti and succulents from around the world.

Ayers Lake inside the Boyce Thompson Arboretum — Sue Stokes / Shutterstock

Boyce Thompson Arboretum Lake And Trees

Ayers Lake, a man-made reservoir, supplies the arboretum with irrigation water. The lake is home to migratory waterfowl and is stocked with two species of endangered fish, the Gila topminnow and the desert pupfish.

As you walk the trails through the arboretum, you can sit, rest, and enjoy the scenery under a grove of palm trees or in the fresh scent of the eucalyptus forest.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum Wildlife

More than 300 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians call the arboretum home. You’ll almost certainly see chipmunks and rabbits, but you may also see foxes, coyotes, javelinas, raccoons, coatimundis, bobcats, or even a snake or two. The snakes are important for rodent control. Most are nonvenomous, but you are advised to notify staff if you come across a rattlesnake. A staff member will relocate it.

At least 250 species of birds have been recorded in the arboretum. Lists of the different types of birds on the property are available at the visitor center.

A trail at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum — Donna Janke

Events At Boyce Thompson Arboretum

Specialized tours and events offered at Boyce Thompson Arboretum include history tours, geology walks focusing on the rock and volcanic formations along the Main Loop Trail, and guided walks dedicated to specific creatures. On the Edible & Medicinal Plants Tour, you will discover how native plants have fed, healed, and clothed the people of the Sonoran Desert for over 1,000 years. You can take a guided wildflower walk in the spring, and if you’re a shutterbug, you’ll love the photography workshops. Meditation, yoga, and tai chi sessions are offered at times.

Plants are sold at the visitor center all year long; larger selections of plants are available at the arboretum’s fundraising events in October and April.

The Picket Post House at Boyce Thompson Arboretum — Donna Janke

Visiting Boyce Thompson Arboretum

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is open every day except for December 25. Hours vary by season, so be sure to check the website before you visit.

The arboretum’s signage identifies plants and provides lots of information, so you can easily tour the property on your own. To learn more and enhance your visit, consider buying the Main Trail guidebook, which contains information about plants, animals, and natural history that corresponds to numbered signs along the Main Loop Trail. You can also purchase the Curandero Trail guidebook, which describes medicinal and other uses of Sonoran Desert plants.

If you don’t want to tour the arboretum on your own, guided tours are available daily. Whether you visit the arboretum on your own or with a tour, you should allow at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit.

No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find beautiful scenery and something in bloom. The gardens change with the seasons; you’ll see spring flowers in March and April, cactus blooms in April and May, butterflies and dragonflies in summer, colorful foliage in fall, and plenty of birds in the winter.

A trail at Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Phoenix — Donna Janke

Beyond The Arboretum

There are no restaurants at the arboretum, but there are picnic tables and grills for visitors to use. You can bring your own food or purchase snacks at the gift shop. Alternatively, you can grab a bite to eat in Superior, a small community that was founded as a mining town in 1875.

Be sure to check out the World’s Smallest Museum before heading back to Phoenix. This quirky establishment, located on U.S. Route 60 in Superior, is dedicated to the artifacts of everyday life. Outside the 134-square-foot building, you’ll find sculptures made of rusted tools and mining equipment.

How To Visit Multnomah Falls In Oregon

Complete with a bridge and a quaint stone lodge at the foot of the mountain, Oregon’s Multnomah Falls looks straight out of a Thomas Kinkade painting. Peeking out from above treetops, the stream — fed by snow, rain, and an underground spring — plummets 620-feet to the ground. It’s not a fantasy, however. Multnomah Falls is real and even more magical in person.

Attracting over 2 million visitors a year, Multnomah Falls has garnered a coveted place on many bucket lists. As the tallest waterfall in Oregon, it’s a must-see when visiting Portland and the surrounding areas. Here is everything you should know about visiting Multnomah Falls!

Where Is Multnomah Falls?

Located in northwestern Oregon, Multnomah Falls is tucked away in an area known as the Columbia River Gorge.

The slow erosion of rock layers created the Columbia River Gorge that cuts through the scenic Cascade Mountains. The river marks the border between states, with Oregon to the south and Washington to the north. Multnomah Falls’ proximity to the border allows for a three-hour drive from Seattle, Washington.

However, the closest city to Multnomah Falls is Portland. A 30-minute drive east from Portland lands visitors amongst over 90 waterfalls waiting to be explored in the Columbia River Gorge. Standing out above the rest, Multnomah Falls can be found right off the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Multnomah Falls in Oregon. — f11photo / Shutterstock

How To Get To Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls can be seen from I-84 off the main highway that winds through the Columbia River Gorge. To appreciate the full effect, visitors should take the short stroll from the road to Multnomah’s viewing platforms.

Getting To Multnomah Falls By Car

Getting to the Falls by car is one of the easiest means of accessing this natural wonder. Not only will you be able to visit Multnomah Falls, but also the other waterfalls and hiking trails around the area.

From Portland, you can either take the Historic Columbia River Highway or I-84 to reach Multnomah Falls. Although the waterfall is off the Historic Columbia River Highway, parking is limited to a few parking spots. Once Multnomah Falls became popular, parking was expanded, but can only be accessed from I-84.

If your GPS says to take Historic Columbia River Highway from Portland, reroute it to I-84. Take I-84 east for 30 minutes and get off at Exit 31. It’s the same exit for westbound drivers. From both directions, Exit 31 for Multnomah Falls Car Park will be on the left-hand side instead of the right.

Although the car park holds 186 cars, the visiting car rate is estimated to be 13 times that per day, so prepare to be patient and read on for parking tips! Once parked, walk along the path under the freeway to access the viewing platforms, hiking trails, and Multnomah Lodge.

It’s common to see the exit blocked by a mechanic gate. It automatically closes when the car park reaches its capacity and doesn’t reopen until a significant number of spots are available (about 10 percent). Don’t wait for the gate to open as it is dangerous to stop on the freeway.

Instead, drive to Rooster Rock State Park (Exit 25). Park for $5 and take the free shuttle provided by Columbia Gorge Express. Another option is to continue on I-84 East to Cascade Locks. Park for free near the post office and take a $5 bus ride to Multnomah Falls.

Getting To Multnomah Falls By Bus

First started as a pilot program in 2016, Columbia Gorge Express has become a popular option for visiting Multnomah Falls. Instead of fighting for limited parking spots, the bus provides an affordable, relaxed way to enjoy the scenic drive.

The Columbia Gorge Express has five stops total: Gateway Transit Center, Rooster Rock State Park, Multnomah Falls, Cascade Locks, and Hood River. An individual day pass, $15 day-of or $12 online, provides unlimited rides between stops. If traveling from Portland, parking at the Gateway Transit Center is free.

Only interested in Multnomah Falls? For the price of a coffee ($5 round trip), take the 30-minute bus ride from Portland to Multnomah Falls. For a slightly shorter bus ride, park at Rooster Rock State Park ($5) and board the shuttle for a free 15-minute trip to Multnomah Falls.

One of the viewing areas at Multnomah Falls. — crbellette / Shutterstock

Best Spots To See Multnomah Falls

Whether viewing Multnomah Falls from Multnomah Lodge, Benson Bridge, or Multnomah Falls Upper Viewpoint, each vantage point provides its own unique and equally beautiful experience.

Multnomah Lower Viewing Platform

Just a 5-minute walk from the car park stands Multnomah Lodge — a perfect place to rest, enjoy a snack, and prepare for the trail ahead.

To the right of Multnomah Lodge runs a paved pathway that takes visitors to the Lower Viewing Platform. Although it may be the most crowded area, it provides the striking view of Multnomah Falls that’s printed on almost every brochure. From this vantage point, both tiers of Multnomah Falls and Benson Bridge can be seen unobstructed.

From here, continue down the paved trail for one-fifth of a mile to view Multnomah Falls from iconic Benson Bridge.

Benson Bridge

To preserve the land, businessman Simon Benson bought the areas around Multnomah Falls which he gifted to the City of Portland later in life. Named after Benson, the stone bridge was originally built in 1914.

Situated between the Upper and Lower Falls, Benson Bridge sits 105 feet above Multnomah Creek, providing prime viewing of both the Falls’ sections. On the left, watch the lower Falls cascade into the pool below. On the right, crane your neck up to see water tumbling off the cliff’s edge.

Multnomah Falls Upper Viewpoint

A trail continues beyond Benson Bridge, climbing the full 870 feet to Multnomah Falls Upper Viewpoint. The trail includes 11 switchbacks and several outlooks to enjoy while you catch your breath.

The outlook is a half moon-shaped wooden platform that provides views from the top of the waterfall down to Benson Bridge, Multnomah Lodge, and — on a clear day — over the treetops and the Columbia River Gorge.

Multnomah Falls during the fall. — Bob Pool / Shutterstock

When Is The Best Time To Visit Multnomah Falls?

Because the area experiences four distinct seasons, Oregon’s Multnomah Falls provides different experiences during each time of year. Winter brings snow and ice while fall brings bursts of orange and yellow with the changing leaves.

Although stunning during every season, the best time to visit Multnomah Falls is during the spring months, from April to June. The melting snow from winter creates a full, gushing waterfall that shows Multnomah Falls’ powerful potential. Blossoming white, yellow, and purple wildflowers will dot the landscapes surrounding nearby hiking trails. Although crowds start to pick up, fewer visitors travel to Multnomah Falls during the spring.

As expected, July and August are the hottest months of the year. Due to school holidays, it’s also the busiest season. Although the flow of water is not as strong, Multnomah Falls is just as scenic during the summer since it never fully dries up. If you opt to go over the summer, visit Multnomah Falls early in the morning to beat the crowds and the heat.

Overall, you should prepare for crowds regardless of the season. Weekends and holidays almost always guarantee an influx of visitors. Arrive early in the morning and visit during the week if possible.

What Is There To Do In Multnomah Falls?

Although the lodge and viewing platforms of Multnomah Falls are the main attraction, this area is also an excellent entry point to several hiking trails. Since some of the trails may be closed, consider volunteering with the Forest Service to repair them.

Visit Multnomah Falls Lodge

Built in 1925 by Albert E. Doyle, a philanthropist who made his fortune in lumber, Multnomah Lodge originally functioned as a resting spot for travelers. Intentionally constructed to incorporate every rock type found in the Columbia River Gorge, the lodge was nominated for the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.

Today, it’s expanded to be a destination in and of itself. Complete with a visitor’s center, a gift shop, bathrooms, and a restaurant on the second floor, you can spend several hours at the lodge. The U.S. Forest Service runs the visitors center and provides information about hiking trails. The lodge is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Multnomah Lodge also hosts events and has become a popular venue for wedding receptions.

The lodge at Multnomah Falls. — C.Echeveste / Shutterstock

Hike To Viewing Points And Beyond

Multnomah Falls Trail is the gateway to a longer, six-mile hike to Larch Mountain that weaves through tall trees and lush underbrush. Additionally, the 4.9 mile Wahkeena-Multnomah Falls Loop passes by waterfalls including Ecola Falls and Fairy Falls. Monitor the U.S Forest Service to check trail openings before attempting any hikes.

Help With Recovery Efforts

The effects of the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire are still being felt at Multnomah Falls. From remnants of burned trees to trail closures, it will take a community to bring the beautiful Columbia River Gorge to its pre-fire safety. While visiting the area, get involved in recovery efforts by providing financial support or working with an agency to repair trails.

Other Things To Know About Multnomah Falls

Given the high drop and powerful rush of water, Multnomah Falls is not completely contained by the pools below. Generally, mist covers the surrounding area creating a cool climate.

Bring a waterproof jacket with a hood to keep dry while standing on Benson Bridge and traversing the trail. Cooler temperatures may also require an extra layer such as a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater. It’s also a good idea to wear shoes with traction, such as hiking boots, to minimize your chances of slipping on slick pavement.

Photo Credit: Jon Bilous / Shutterstock, kevin baca / Shutterstock

10 Important Things To Know Before You Get A Timeshare

Do you dream of a place you can visit year in and year out with your family? Does the idea of a holiday home excite you? If so, a timeshare may be the perfect solution.

Planning a new vacation every year can be stressful. Plus, the price tag of buying a second home just for holidays seems unnecessary if you consider the time-to-use ratio. Timeshares, on the other hand, can provide you and your family with a dedicated use time, a beautiful home, and a great location each year.

There are many joys to owning a timeshare, including saving money by paying for years of vacations in advance, but there are things you need to keep in mind before signing on the dotted line. In order to get the most out of your future vacations, consider the following 10 things before you get a timeshare.

A couple receives the keys to their timeshare. — fizkes / Shutterstock

1. Don’t Buy A Timeshare Impulsively

To save money in the long-term, you need to make sure you will actually use your timeshare. The biggest mistake and leading cause of timeshare buyer’s remorse is buying a timeshare without thinking through all the details. Most timeshare brokers are legitimate, but sometimes they can pressure potential buyers into making a hasty decision.

Of course this doesn’t mean you can’t purchase a beautiful timeshare that you will love for years to come!

Some tactics to watch out for include limited-time offers and giveaways with complimentary vacations. Although these offers are tempting, it’s important to make a carefully considered decision. For example, don’t purchase the timeshare before you see the unit in person. If you are going to invest thousands of dollars into a shared vacation home, you want to make sure it’s actually as good as it looks in the brochure!

Additionally, you don’t want to commit to something you don’t fully understand. Take the timeshare contract with you, have a lawyer read it, sleep on it for a few days, and then make your decision.

2. Know Your Vacation Budget

Sometimes people overlook the financial implications of taking a vacation at their vacation home.

Think about the costs that the vacation entails. Can you afford the cost of travel to your timeshare? Will you need airplane tickets, car rentals, or a budget for entertainment and activities for your family once you arrive? If you’re planning to vacation with extended family or friends, think about whether they will be able to afford these vacation costs as well.

One way to understand your vacation budget is to compile all your expenses from the past five or six years of vacations. If they add up to more than your assumed travel costs and timeshare fees going forward, then a timeshare may save you money long-term.

It may also be helpful to investigate prices of hotels or other accommodations in your desired vacation location. Will you be saving money by vacationing at this timeshare or are hotels, AirBnBs, or similar accommodations available at lower prices?

A timeshare cabin in the woods. — givaga / Shutterstock

3. Know Your Time Commitment

Although you may have the desire to travel several times a year, is it realistic for you and your family?

Timeshares are worth the monetary investment if you commit to taking one or two trips a year. Consider if you’re able to take the allotted time off work and, if children will be involved in your vacation, whether your timeshare window falls on school holidays. Since many timeshare owners have a claim to the same place, changing your week may be hard.

If you’re not able to vacation during your allotted time, renting out your timeshare may be an option. However, this is not guaranteed with every timeshare. If you’d like to explore this option, check to see if your contract allows you to rent it out before you sign.

Also: Keep in mind the rental market is saturated. Fewer people are looking to rent a timeshare than there are timeshares for rent.

4. Know Your Timeshare Location

Does one particular vacation home excite you or are you always searching for new experiences?

Your designated week may be at a cabin over winter break, which can make an incredible annual destination. Yet, once you’ve vacationed 5 or 10 years in the same cabin, in the same mountains, will you be itching to try something new?

If that’s the case, it’s important to understand whether or not your timeshare affords you access to other properties or entails agreements with other timeshare companies. Contracts that grant access to affiliated resorts and hotels pave the way for timeshare owners to trade their weeks and points for new experiences. For example, vacation exchange program RCI claims to have 38,000 timeshare exchange opportunities!

If you choose to exchange your timeshare, your vacation usually has to be booked months, if not years, in advance. Since other timeshare owners have priority for their weeks and locations, it may be hard to lock in your desired time and location.

A piggybank watches over its financial records. — prasit2512 / Shutterstock

5. Understand The Costs Involved With Owning a Timeshare

Buying a timeshare includes an initial purchase fee based on your share of the property. While a house mortgage can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to the American Resort Development Association (ARDA), a timeshare cost an average of $20,940 in 2016.

Compared to average homeowner prices, this seems like a nominal fee. Unfortunately, a one-time purchase fee is not the lifetime price. Brokers often don’t disclose all the costs involved with timeshare ownership during their sales pitch.

In addition to the one-time fee, timeshare ownership implies annual fees and maintenance costs. Naturally, you want your timeshare well cared for, but the annual fees add up. In 2017, ARDA disclosed the average annual ownership fee was $980.

These fees are not stable either. For example, if the timeshare needs repairs, the fees increase to cover the costs. Even if you don’t take your annual trip, you’re still responsible for paying the fees.

6. Make All Payments On Time

In addition to understanding the costs associated with your timeshare, it’s essential to make the necessary payments consistently. Defaulting on payments can have scary repercussions — including facing foreclosure.

Of course, foreclosures reported to credit agencies can negatively affect your credit score. It will be harder to get a loan, and future lines of credit will have higher interest rates.

On top of that, you may be sued for the “deficiency” if the timeshare sells at a lower price than what you owe. Although some states protect against deficiency judgments, your other assets may be at stake.

A beautiful Italian subdivision. — Luca Lorenzelli / Shutterstock

7. A Timeshare Is Not A Real Estate Investment

It’s essential to understand that timeshares are not a property investment. In fact, timeshares’ values can depreciate, much like a car’s.

House purchases can be written off on taxes, while only certain timeshare expenses are tax deductible, and these depend on your ownership type. If you need to borrow money to purchase a timeshare, it’s probably not worth the investment. Due to depreciation, banks often refuse loans for timeshares. If they do provide a loan, it will come with a higher interest rate.If you decide to sell a timeshare in the future, you will have to do so at a significantly discounted rate.

8. Know The Difference Between “Deeded” And “Right To Use”

There are different types of contracts — “deeded” or “right to use” — that stipulate your timeshare ownership.

When a timeshare is divided into weeks and provides fractional ownership, this is a “deeded” contract. As an owner of a deeded contract, you can use the week yourself, rent it out, give it away, leave it to someone else, or sell it to another buyer, etc. With this type of contract, you may also be liable for a portion of the real estate tax as part of the maintenance fees.

If your contract specifies your timeshare as “right to use,” you don’t own part of the property, you’re just allowed to stay there for a certain amount of time.

If you’re unclear on the type of ownership implied by a contract, consult with a lawyer before purchasing.

A couple admires their new timeshare. — Twinsterphoto / Shutterstock

9. Understand Your Trading Power

As previously mentioned, it’s possible to exchange your timeshare time and location. The higher your “trading power,” the easier it is to exchange your timeshare for another window or destination.

There are several ways your trading power, or the value of your timeshare, is determined. Main factors include location, type of property, and ownership season. For example, if your assigned timeshare is on the beach over the 4th of July, you will have more trading power.

You may even consider buying a timeshare based on its trading power to increase your chances of taking vacations in different places. However, this can be risky as trading power can fluctuate. Depending on the number of units being exchanged, your trading power will increase and decrease with supply and demand.

10. Understand The Difficulty Of Selling A Timeshare

Before you commit to purchasing a timeshare, it’s essential to understand that it’s a lifetime investment. Although it’s possible to sell a timeshare, it can be challenging.

If buyers remorse hits after a few years, the best option is to sell it to a timeshare seeker. It’s possible to sell it back to the original company, but it’s rare. Either way, due to timeshare depreciation, you should expect to sell at a considerable loss.

Due to the difficulty of selling a timeshare, many selling services exist, and they usually take a large cut of the profit.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of reselling scams. Fraudulent companies may ask for upfront fees that amount to hundreds or thousands of dollars. They provide promises about existing buyers when in actuality they pocket the upfront fees and never sell your timeshare.

Photo Credit: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock, totophotos / Shutterstock

10 Great Free Things To Do Outdoors In (And Around) Tokyo

Tokyo is known for its bustling nightlife and world-class eateries, but it’s also one of the best major cities for hikers, bikers, and runners. Theoretically, you could spend an entire Tokyo trip outdoors — not that we’d necessarily recommend that approach, since you’d miss out on some of the city’s exceptional restaurants.

That said, when you’re ready to explore some of the city’s many parks and cultural monuments, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few ways to spend your downtime in the Japanese capital (without spending a dime).

1. Jog (Or Walk) The Path Around The Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is a major tourist destination, as it’s the home of the Emperor of Japan and one of the country’s most iconic architectural monuments. You can (and should) take a guided tour of the palace proper, but simply strolling through the outer grounds will provide plenty of memorable experiences.

The Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan. — Guillermo Olaizola / Shutterstock

There’s a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) route around the palace, and it’s extremely popular with runners. Emperor Naruhito even runs the path on occasion; if you’re lucky, you might see him on your route.

You’ll want to follow the course counter-clockwise, keeping the palace on your left. Follow the other joggers and you won’t breach etiquette. You can also walk the path, but allow room for runners to pass you easily. The course slopes slightly, but it’s a fairly easy jog.

2. Walk The Path To Meiji Jingu

The Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who are generally credited with transforming Japan from an isolationist nation to a world power. Japan’s Shinto religion is heavily based on linking the country’s history with its present through rituals and prayer, and Emperor Meiji’s spirit is said to rest at Meiji Jingu, one of the best-known Shinto shrines.

That sounds fairly complex to Westerners, but visit Meiji Jingu, and you’ll gain an appreciation of the religion’s practices. You’ll often see Shinto priests walking the 170-acre grounds, and various displays tell the story of the Meiji Restoration. You’ll see barrels of wine from France and Japanese sake presented in honor of Emperor Meiji’s spirit. Groundskeepers brush the walking paths with bamboo brooms, and visitors remain quiet while walking the hallowed grounds.

We wouldn’t recommend running through Meiji Jingu, but walking slowly through the grounds is an extraordinary experience. If you’re looking for more active exercise, plan to visit the shrine on your way to Yoyogi Park (which we’ll discuss in a minute).

Shrine on the way to Yoyogi Park in Tokyo.

This is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy nature, as it features a beautiful evergreen forest with some 120,000 trees. You’ll forget that you’re in the middle of Tokyo. If you’re feeling slightly overwhelmed by the bustling city, Meiji Jingu is an essential stop.

3. Get Some Fresh Air At Yoyogi Park

Just past Meiji Jingu, you’ll find Yoyogi Park, one of Tokyo’s largest parks (and another one of its most popular tourist attractions, though there’s plenty of room to spread out — no feeling cramped by the crowds). Explore the cycling trails on the north and west ends of the park, or, if you’re feeling pensive, take a slow walk through the central field to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

On the weekends, street performers, theater groups, and artists converge on Yoyogi Park to practice their crafts. Head to the park for a morning jog, then watch a few performances while sampling food from the pop-up vendors. There’s even a dog run, so if you’re traveling with a canine companion, bring them along (just be sure to stay on the path and keep your pup on a leash).

We visited several parks in Tokyo, and while they’ve all got their perks, Yoyogi was our favorite. It’s large, eclectic, and beautiful, and given that it’s right next to Meiji Jingu, we think it’s fair to call it a must-see.

4. Walk Through Shinjuku Central Park…

Shinjuku Central Park is — quite obviously — located in Tokyo’s Shinjuku ward, and while it’s much smaller than Yoyogi, it’s typically less busy. You’ll often see office workers in suits enjoying their lunch in the park’s center, and it’s a nice place for a casual walk or jog. It’s also another great place to see cherry blossoms, although some of the other locations on this list offer more breathtaking views.

Shinjuku Central Park is surrounded by some of the tallest buildings in Tokyo, and if you’re looking for a true “city park” experience, you’ll feel right at home. However, if you’re making the trip, be sure to add another stop to your schedule: the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings.

5. …And Enjoy Skyline Views Of The City

These two buildings have free observation decks, and they’re some of the best places in Tokyo to take in the skyline. We visited the observation deck in Tower 1, which is 663 feet high.

The entire city opened up before us, with snow-peaked mountains in the distance adding some context that elevated (pardon the pun) the rest of our trip.

View of Tokyo from Shinjuku Central Park.

If you’re going up in the Metropolitan Building, head there early on a weekday for the best possible experience. This is one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist destinations, and even during low-traffic times, you’ll wait in line for at least 20 minutes. The view is worth the wait, but savvy travelers can avoid the big crowds by timing their visits appropriately.

6. Explore The Markets Of Kabukicho

If you’re visiting Tokyo, you’ll need some decent shoes. Odds are you’ll spend a lot of your time on your feet, and if you’ve got a packed itinerary, you’ll spend most of your time walking from one place to another (often while trying to decode the city’s complex subway schedules).

On our trip, however, we made time to walk the streets without any specific purpose, and that led to some of the best experiences of our vacation. One of the highlights: walking in the dense crowds of Kabukicho, an entertainment district in Shinjuku. Kabukicho has the bright lights, odd advertisements, and offbeat street stores that Westerners often associate with Tokyo, and you don’t have to spend a dime to enjoy your time here.

Be sure to make your way to Tohos Cinema, where you’ll see a giant Godzilla head peeking out from the top of the building.

Godzilla looking over Tohos Cinema in Tokyo, Japan.

When walking Kabukicho, you’ll deal with large crowds, so don’t plan on jogging or running. This is more of an urban hike. You’ll also want to plan your trip during the day as the area is famously a red light district. While it’s not dangerous, most older tourists will prefer the casual feel of daytime Kabukicho.

7. From Kabukicho, Head Over To Toyama Park

We noted that Yoyogi Park was our favorite Tokyo park overall, but Toyama Park is our favorite place to get some exercise. It’s surprisingly large, with plenty of hills to delight joggers and hikers, plus it features some truly beautiful plant life.

You’ll also see the Shinjuku Sports Center, and you’ll likely cross paths with students from nearby universities, as Toyama is a popular practice meet-up spot. Of the parks we visited in Shinjuku, Toyama seemed to have the fewest tourists, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the weather.

8. Take A Trip To Kamakura

Most Tokyo vacations include at least one day trip, but if you’re trying to avoid spending too much time on the train, head just south of the city to Kamakura. Once the political capital of Japan, it offers a distinctly different experience than what you’ll get on the busy streets of Tokyo.

Giant Buddha statue in Kamakura. — Tooykrub / Shutterstock

Walk by small, quaint shops, making your way to the statue of Amida Buddha at Kotoku-in. Kamakura has some of Japan’s greatest Buddhist temples, including Engaku-ji, Jochi-ji, and Jufuku-ji, all three of which are major draws for tourists. Hikers will want to visit the Asaina Pass, an entrance to the city lined by the Saburo Falls.

Kamakura is also home to a number of dedicated hiking trails, most of which take 30 to 90 minutes to complete. If you’re looking to get some exercise while enjoying some of Japan’s most treasured cultural sites, the trip is well worth your time.

9. See Red Pandas At Edogawa Natural Zoo

This small, admission-free zoo might shock Westerners, as it doesn’t really resemble the zoos you’d find in the States. There aren’t ice cream vendors or souvenir-purchasing opportunities at every corner, and on most days, you can enjoy a relatively quiet stroll through the grounds.

Edogawa Natural Zoo in Tokyo, Japan. — wothan / Shutterstock

Located in Gyosen Park, Edogawa Zoo features red pandas, Humboldt penguins, and various other small animals. There’s also a petting zoo, which makes this an essential stop if you’re traveling with kids in tow.

You’ll have to cross into Tokyo’s Edogawa ward to get here, but that’s an easy trek via subway, and it’s a great starting point for other Edogawa excursions.

10. Jog The Tama River Trail

Dedicated runners, joggers, cyclists and hikers will want to visit the Tama River trail at least once (and, in all likelihood, several times). It’s a great place to get in a long workout, and it features some stellar views of the Tama River.

The Tama River Trail in Tokyo, Japan. — Rourue / Shutterstock

The trail begins in Hamura, a quiet suburb on the edge of greater Tokyo, and runs along the Tama Hills Recreation Area. It also passes by Tamagawadai Park in Southern Tokyo, which features gorgeous hydrangea in the summer.

Best of all, the Tama River trail has no mandatory stopping points, so you won’t have to pause your workout. It’s 50 kilometers in total, so keep an eye on your smartphone to make sure you’re not getting lost in your workout — you’ll want to have enough energy to make your way back to your starting point! If you’re an experienced cyclist, however, the 50-kilometer trail isn’t especially challenging, as it’s mostly flat and well maintained.

Photo Credit: apiguide / Shutterstock, vichie81 / Shutterstock