What to Do at Fort Worth Stockyards: 10 Fun Things

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The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is known for its Western heritage and rich history. Where else can you see a herd of Texas longhorns and real cowboys strolling down the brick walkways like they did in the Old West? Nowhere but Fort Worth. It’s no surprise that this city is known as Cowtown, Texas.

The Fort Worth Stockyards in Texas preserves the rich Western heritage of the whole region. Established in the 19th century as a hub for cattle drives, it now stands as a historic district where you can experience cowboy culture, watch cattle drives, visit rodeos, and explore Western-themed shops and restaurants.

This is why whenever someone I know is visiting the Fort Worth area for the first time and wants to know what to do with their time, I send them to the Fort Worth Stockyards. It’s the perfect place to discover what Fort Worth is all about. Whether you’re looking for Western shops, restaurants, rodeos, cattle drives, saloons, or historical landmarks, you’ll find them at the Stockyards — there’s no need to go elsewhere.

Most of the action happens on East Exchange Avenue, but don’t overlook West Exchange Avenue. The Stockyards District is a magical place to go that never gets old. Below, I’ve listed some of my favorite things to do while visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards — and this is coming from a Fort Worth native.

What to Do at Fort Worth Stockyards: 10 Fun Things

1. Shop Till You Drop

The Stockyards District is your one-stop shop for all things Western. Tourists and locals alike love to shop from one end of East Exchange Avenue to the other. You’ll find things only a tourist could love, but also plenty of quality, handcrafted goods. The one shop I always recommend to visitors is The General Store on the corner of West Exchange Avenue and Main Street; it’s one of the best places to pick up Fort Worth souvenirs and memorabilia.

All up and down East Exchange Avenue and across Main Street on West Exchange Avenue are shops offering authentic Western wear, Western art, vintage records, jewelry, antiques, souvenirs, and much more. You’ll find a little bit of Fort Worth charm at every shop. But don’t stop shopping until you’ve browsed all the unique shops at the Stockyards Station located at the end of East Exchange Avenue. And don’t skip Mule Alley — it’s the latest addition to the Stockyards and offers shopping, eating, and staying.

There’s no need to leave the Fort Worth Stockyards to find that perfect pair of cowboy boots, hat, belt, or anything else that’s on your Western wish list. Each store has something unique to offer, and you might even hear a tall tale or two.

The best way to shop here is to start at one point and work your way back around to where you started. That way, you won’t miss a thing.

2. Try The Steak

When it comes to the cuisine scene at the Stockyards, it’s hard to know where to start. Since you’re in Texas — and in Cowtown, Texas, at that — trying the steak is a must. One of the most popular places to eat for locals as well as for tourists is Cattlemen’s Steak House. It’s known for its big, juicy steaks and quaint Western atmosphere. H3 Ranch is another famous steakhouse that serves up lunch and dinner.

If steak isn’t what you’re looking for, there are places on East Exchange Avenue offering everything from authentic Texas barbecue to Southern cuisine to spicy Mexican food.

Pro Tip: You’ve got to try The Biscuit Bar — it’s one of the newest places to eat in the Stockyards and is in Mule Alley. Whether you’re there for breakfast or lunch, everything is served on big, flaky, buttery biscuits. They’re to die for!

The cattle drive at the Fort Worth Stockyards. — Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock

3. Witness The Famous Cattle Drive

This is a must! Every day on East Exchange Avenue at 11:30 a.m. and again at 4 p.m., traffic comes to a halt and passersby come to a standstill to watch the herd come through. Every person, young and old, enjoys watching as the Old West comes to life and real cowboys drive cattle through the Stockyards. Find yourself a spot on the sidewalk if you’re walking, or if you’re driving, pull over to watch as this authentic piece of Fort Worth brings out the smiles. It still amazes locals!

Pro Tip: The cattle drives do begin promptly, so don’t wait to find your spot on the sidewalk or book your tour in advance!

4. Enjoy The Nightlife

Nightlife in Cowtown is a big deal, especially to locals, and the Stockyards area has plenty of it. There are so many bars and saloons to visit that you could literally spend the night going from one to the next.

The White Elephant Saloon is one of the oldest saloons in the Stockyards and is probably the one establishment that draws people just because it’s so well known. But the strangely named Booger Red’s is also worth a visit!

Most of the bars and saloons are on East Exchange Avenue, and all are within walking distance of each other. So, whether you want to pretend you’re a cowboy, look for a cowboy (or cowgirl), or just kick up your heels and relax, the nightlife at the Stockyards will not disappoint.

Pro Tip: Note that the Stockyards can become quite rowdy at night, so if the nightlife isn’t your thing, you might want to consider booking accommodations off the main drag.

5. Go Two-Stepping At Billy Bob’s Texas

Billy Bob’s Texas is a legendary country music establishment and the world’s largest honky-tonk. You’re going to want to take some time to visit because it’s a big place with lots to do inside. Grab lunch or dinner or a beer or two, go bar-hopping, ride the mechanical bull, hang out near the indoor rodeo arena, shop for souvenirs, and stay for a little two-stepping and a country-western concert. For many years, the iconic Billy Bob’s has been an enormous success and the largest attraction in the Stockyards. Don’t forget to wear your boots!

Pro Tip: Kids are allowed inside, but only if they’re accompanied by an adult.

6. Catch A Championship Rodeo

After you’ve gone shopping, bought your Western wear, and are feeling like a real cowboy or cowgirl, you’ll need a real cowboy experience! Grab your boots and hat and head to the historic Cowtown Coliseum to catch an action-packed championship rodeo. Every Friday and Saturday starting at 8 p.m., some of the best rodeo athletes from all over Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and beyond come out to compete for championship titles and prize money in bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and many other daredevil events. It’s lots of fun for the whole family to watch!

Pro Tip: You really don’t need to dress like a cowboy to have fun here. Come as you are, but do kick up your heels — tennis shoes will work!

7. Visit The Cowtown Winery

Open every day of the week, the Cowtown Winery in Mule Alley offers wine by the glass, wine tastings, wine to go, and bottles of wine. Happy hour is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. — all glasses of wine cost $6. There’s live music on the weekends.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the winery offers a 90-minute walking ghost tour through the Stockyards. You’ll hear stories about haunted places (including the winery), and learn about the history of the Fort Worth Stockyards. A few stops on the tour include the Cadillac Hotel, Miss Molly’s Hotel, the Stockyards Hotel, and many more. A glass of wine is included!

8. Hang Your Hat At A Western-Themed Hotel

If you want to stay right in the middle of it all, you can hang your hat at the Stockyards Hotel, which has welcomed guests with Texas-style hospitality and Western-themed rooms for more than 100 years. It’s located right on East Exchange Avenue, and you can walk right out of the hotel and turn in either direction to begin your day or evening.

There are also hotel chains within walking distance of the Stockyards. If you’re looking to stay in a brand-new hotel with outdoor walking paths and firepits, the Hotel Drover, located in Mule Alley, will open its doors in early 2021.

Or if a cozy bed and breakfast is more your style, check out Miss Molly’s Hotel on West Exchange Avenue, offering antiques in every room, a fresh breakfast each morning, and maybe even a ghostly experience or two! (This is one of the hotels featured on the Cowtown Winery’s ghost tour.)

9. Kids Will Love the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze

Cowtown Cattlepen Maze is the perfect destination for those seeking a distinctive and thrilling experience in the heart of Fort Worth Stockyards. It is a kid magnet, but adults can join in too. Cowtown Cattlepen Maze is a 5,400-square-foot labyrinth designed to resemble a cattle pen, complete with authentic wooden fences and gates.

The maze requires around 15 minutes to complete while the friends and family watch the fun from an observation deck. Throughout the year, the maze may introduce different seasonal themes. During Halloween, for example, there might be spooky surprises within the maze. These special events add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

10. Book a Stagecoach Ride

A stagecoach or a carriage ride with the Stockyard Stables is the best way to see the Fort Worth Stockyards in style and to step into the Stockyards’ past. Ride along the cobbled streets in an 1800’s Concordia Stagecoach Replica, or enjoy one of the open-top carriages. Your visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards won’t be complete without taking a ride. The tickets can be bought next to the Petting Zoo at East Exchange Avenue.

FAQs

How Long Do I Need at the Fort Worth Stockyards?

Spending a whole day in the Fort Worth Stockyards is recommended. There are historic buildings, saloons, shops, and restaurants all along the weathered brick streets. In the evenings, there are plenty of bars with live music in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

What Is the Fort Worth Stockyards Famous For?

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District truly embodies the essence of Western heritage. From the original brick walkways to the wooden corrals, every inch of the Fort Worth Stockyards tells the rich history of Texas’s famous livestock industry.

What Are the Top Attractions in the Fort Worth Stockyards?

Apart from the famous twice-daily cattle drive, you can watch a rodeo at The Cowtown Coliseum located in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards or take an intimate museum tour of the life of John Wayne. Later you can go two-stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas or seek premier spots for live country music.

What Time Is the Cattle Drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards?

The cattle drive is every day at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. The Livestock Exchange Building at 131 East Exchange Avenue is the best place to watch the cattle drive.

How To Get to the Fort Worth Stockyards?

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is about 35 miles from Fort Worth Stockyards and Downtown Dallas is about 45 miles away. Depending on the time of day and traffic it could mean a 45-minute drive or a 2-hour drive.

11 Things To Know Before Visiting Glass Beach, California | Admire the Ocean-worn Remnants

The Northern California coastline undulates past breakers, cliffs, and grand hillsides that once held the ancient redwood forests. Most were sacrificed to build San Francisco during the Gold Rush and after the earthquake of 1906. As Highway 1 veers past Fort Ross, an early Russian outpost, forests again dominate between villages. Today, logging small beach towns in California have turned to tourism to maintain their economies.

Those that survived fires and economic cycles, including the colorful village of Mendocino, burnish their Victorian heritage to lure visitors with galleries, bookstores, and trendy restaurants. Nature lovers also have much to appreciate in the area thanks to its trails and viewpoints. The most intrepid venture even further north to explore the phenomenon of Glass Beach, where ocean-worn remnants of broken glass carpet several small coves.

Beach glass, also known as sea glass, forms over decades as discarded glass is tumbled by waves, sand, and rocks, smoothing its edges and giving it a frosted appearance that Glass Beach visitors come to admire.

Man holds glass pebbles in Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, California. — Glass Beach, Fort Bragg, California
Photo credit: Poorty Chitre

Visiting Glass Beach, California: 11 Things To Know

1. Finding Glass Beach

Glass is found in the sandy deposits of the southern coves in and around MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg. The most famous is Glass Beach, situated inside the park. Getting there is simple enough; just take the wide walking path from the free parking area on Glass Beach Drive. It’s a few blocks west of Highway 1 off of West Elm Street. Wear shoes or sandals with good tread as you’ll want to climb between the rocks to get to the small beaches and coves where the glass is found. Many dot the area. There are several trails going south out of the state park that lead to other glassy and colorful beaches as well.

There’s More Than One Glass Beach

There are technically three glass beaches. At Mackerricher State Park and outside of it, you will see small pieces of sea glass scattered along many of the beaches. Two of the three original dumping sites are easily accessible by a path at the north end of Fort Bragg, Northern California.

Although the southern beach is slightly more difficult to access with a steep descent in part of the trail, it retains more sea glass than the northern beach. The third beach is where a significant amount of sea glass is still preserved, especially non-white and green colored glasses, but you can only reach it by sea kayak.

2. How Glass Beach Formed

There’s an old myth that every time a sailor was lost at sea, mermaids would cry and their tears would wash onto the shores as sea glass. The story began with a mermaid who loved a sailor from afar and tamed the stormy sea to save his life. Neptune was incensed and banished her to the depths. Since then, her mermaid tears wash up as sea glass — mementos of unrequited love. In truth, the origins of the Fort Bragg sea glass are far more mundane.

The 1906 earthquake that devastated San Francisco also tore Fort Bragg apart. Prior to that tragedy, people stored their garbage on their properties and reused what they could. After the quake and before rebuilding could begin, the fallen homes, shops, and all the garbage had to be removed. Much was burned or bulldozed toward the ocean. This practice continued for decades while, to the surprise of the community, most of the garbage remained in the coastal coves. It’s thought that broken bottles and pottery, old glass windows, and mirrors washed into the surf to become sea glass, though there’s no consensus on why it keeps returning to this area.

The refuse remained on the beach until the 1960s when coastal cleanup began and the phenomenon of Glass Beach was revealed. The shards, smoothed from tumbling in the sea, poured onto the sand with every wave. When author Richard Lamott, appeared on the Martha Stewart Show to give tips on collecting sea glass, Glass Beach became an international phenomenon.

Sea glass on Glass Beach in California. — artem evdokimov / Shutterstock

3. Making Sea Glass Takes Years

It takes years for the tumbling and aging of glass to create the unique frosted sheen and pitting associated with sea glass. The lime and soda used in making most glass leaches out in a process called hydration. When you make it to Glass Beach, hold a piece and run your fingers over the edges — you’ll find they’re round and feel soft, unlike the glassware we’re used to.

4. Is It Beach Glass Or Sea Glass?

Since the glass on Glass Beach came from many different sources, other chemicals have interacted in the weathering process, forming crystals on some of the pieces’ surfaces. Glass tumbled in freshwater escapes the pitting process due to the difference in pH. Some experts argue that freshwater glass is “beach glass” but saltwater glass should be called “sea glass.”

5. You Can Learn About Sea Glass From The Captain and His Transparent Collection

Captain Cass Forrington, a retired sea captain, has been telling visitors all about Mendocino Coast sea glass since he opened the International Sea Glass Museum in the winter of 2009.The small museum is set back from Highway 1 in between Mendocino and Fort Bragg and is packed with cases of unique sea glass arranged according to their color and history.

Forrington began collecting sea glass during his voyages and proudly exhibited rare and chemically unique pieces. The gift shop features Glass Beach and other sea glass jewelry. At last count, Forrington had over 150,000 pieces — and he’s still collecting. His galleries include displays of rare stoppers, handle pieces, marbles, and “rounds.” While the cottage museum is quite small, there’s room for displays detailing the history of wrecks like the clipper ship Frolic, which spilled its Gold Rush cargo along the coast, and Vaseline glass, which was manufactured until the end of World War II. Under a black light, uranium in this unique glass glows, making it a sight to see.

Interested in all things sea glass? Before you pummel the Captain with questions, watch one of the short videos playing inside the museum.

A small tourist-made tower at Glass Beach. — IrinaK / Shutterstock

6. What To Look For At Glass Beach

Author Lamotte suggests that the best times to look for sea glass are after a high tide or during a full moon during the spring or fall. While new beach glass may wash up after storms, what remains in the Glass Beach coves are very small pieces and most of the colored pieces are gone. Years as a popular tourist destination have led to poaching.

It’s illegal to remove anything from a state beach, but many visitors settle into a comfortable position and begin the relaxing task of sifting through the glass pebbles, unable to resist the urge to take their favorite finds. Don’t add to their abuse.

7. Where The Color Comes From

According to the collectors at By The Sea Jewelry, most sea glass is green, brown, and clear (which becomes white), which corresponds to items most commonly discarded at sea, including beer and soda bottles. Sometimes bits of pottery or china emerge from the sea. Lavender, pink, red, and blue glass are rare finds.

Blue glass likely came from Noxzema and Bromo Seltzer bottles, and some perfume and prescription medicine containers.
Gem shades from pink to lime green may have come from perfume bottles or clear glass mixed with manganese during the clarification process. As the chemicals oxidized, they led to shades of lavender and pink.
Clear, faintly green pieces, known as Vaseline glass, were made from the 1800s to the 1940s. Larger pieces glow when you hold a light up to them — a phenomenon accounted for by the uranium that melted into the molds. This glass is extremely rare.
Fire glass is the rarest find. Old dumps may have undergone burning, which can lead to glass melting around objects, or inclusions. These pieces are considered precious for their “impurities.” Some of these gems can be found in the International Beach Glass Museum.

Pudding Creek Beach in California. — KevinN / Shutterstock

8. Take Pictures At Beautiful Pudding Creek Beach

After searching Glass Beach, stretch your legs along the multi-use trail that leads out of MacKerricher and north to Pudding Creek Beach, crossing a tall, wooden train trestle.

This beach is worth exploring for the lofty views of the trestle and several tide pools in the small, picturesque cove that’s dotted with rock outcroppings. There are several trails over the bluff. One leads to a huge tidal pool below rocks on the point just north of the beach. If you have more time and the tide is low, cross around the point to the “hidden” sandy strand known as Old Haul Road Beach.

9. Explore Beyond The Coves

Ten miles north of Mendocino, Fort Bragg holds onto its working-class roots. Commercial and sport fishing boats still anchor in the deep shelter of the Noyo River harbor. This beautiful California town has a small street of shops, the requisite Starbucks, and several modest restaurants where a decent meal or several plates of sushi will cost far less than in Mendocino. North of town and west along the coast there are staggeringly picturesque views. Given all the natural wonders in the area, Glass Beach is only one of the interesting spots worth a visit.

Look to the forested hills for a land adventure. You’ll pass old miners’ cabins, some of the same design as those destroyed in the earthquake that led to the creation of Glass Beach. The 1885 Skunk Train runs from the coast to Willits, another Mendocino-County locale. It once hauled logs inland but now shuttles tourists through second-growth redwoods. Marvel at the towering forest while listening to the costumed guides who are full of historical insights. Before turning back, passengers will enjoy lunch at a recommissioned logging camp. A handful of hotels are scattered between Pudding Creek and the Noyo River.

Coral growing along Glass Beach in California. — Tangent Imagez / Shutterstock

10. Low Tide Treasures And Cautions

The coves and cliffs of MacKerricher State Park are dynamic places defined by the incessant roar of breakers. Low tides often reveal much more than glass. Crabs, mollusks, anemones, and aquatic plants make their homes between rocks and in tide pools. Stay still for a few moments and the small world underfoot becomes busy with movement. Cast a shadow and all goes still again.

Take care while beachcombing as waves can be dangerous along the Fort Bragg coast. Children should be watched. Dogs need to remain on their leashes. Stay on trails as the sandy cliffs can collapse, especially after one of the area’s frequent rainstorms.

The most important thing any visitor to Glass Beach can do is to leave what glass remains. If you must have a souvenir, find it at the International Museum of Glass gift shop.

11. Is It Safe to Swim at Glass Beach?

While combing this spectacular coastline for treasure may be a bucket-list experience for travelers, it wouldn’t be advisable to include swimming as part of the experience. You’re taking the risk of encountering some garbage that may still be sharp and the terrain is rocky and rough.

It’s also important to note that the tides come in and out rather quickly, so it’s much safer to walk the beaches than to go for a swim.

For more beautiful stops on a California Highway 1 drive, check out these 10 quaint towns on California’s coast.

Photo Credits: Wollertz / Shutterstock

FAQs

How Many Fort Bragg’s Glass Beaches Are There?

Three glass beaches in Fort Bragg are layered with beautiful sea glass. About 1,000 to 1,200 tourists visit this stretch of Northern California each day and most collect some glass. Because of this and natural factors, the glass is slowly diminishing.

How Was the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg Formed?

Colored pieces that cover Glass Beach in Fort Bragg are the remnants of discarded glass that Fort Bragg residents used to dump there. Over time, the natural pounding force of the waves broke down the glass debris and evolved it into smooth, picturesque sea glass.

What Sea Glass Is the Rarest?

Fire glass is the rarest. Such pebbles first went through the fire before being dropped into the ocean. Blue, lavender and pink pebbles are also rare. The most common are green, brown, and aqua sea glass which came from beer bottles, perfume bottles, and more.

Where Is Glass Beach Located?

Some 120 miles north of San Francisco, Glass Beach is located on the Mendocino Coast in Fort Bragg, Northern California. It is believed to have the highest concentration of sea glass in the world.

Can I See Wildlife on Glass Beach in Fort Bragg?

Yes, the beach is a habitat for local wildlife, including an array of bird species, sea lions, and seals, making it a haven for wildlife watchers. Also, small tide pools along the beach have everything from crabs to sea anemones. In 2002, the beach received protection under California State Parks.

Looking For a Moonbow in Kentucky? | Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Is One Of Two Places In The U.S. To See Not a Rainbow But a Moonbow

Everyone has seen rainbows — and maybe even double rainbows. But have you seen a moonbow?

It’s a fairly rare phenomenon that requires a number of weather and astronomical conditions to align perfectly. When those conditions are just right, you’ll see a white moonbow arcing across the night sky.

Things To Know Before Visiting Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Kentucky In the Quest for a Moonbow

There are only a handful of places around the world where moonbows, sometimes called lunar rainbows, occur regularly. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park in Kentucky is not only one of those places, it’s one of only two places in the U.S. where you can see a moonbow.

How Moonbows Are Formed

A moonbow is formed the same way rainbows are formed. When light shines on water droplets hanging in the air, light passes through the droplet. The light then bends, or “refracts,” reflects off the back of the droplet, and exits the water droplet after refracting again, a Farmer’s Almanac article explains.

In the case of a moonbow, the moon’s light is refracted by water droplets hanging in the air. Moonbows are rare because they require those hanging water droplets, a full or nearly full moon low on the horizon, a clear night with few clouds, and very dark skies.

Moonbows aren’t colorful like rainbows because light from the moon is nowhere as bright as light from the sun. Consequently, the colors of a moonbow are too weak “to be picked up by the color-detecting cells in our eyes,” the Farmer’s Almanac article notes. That means we see a white moonbow because when all the visible colors combine, it creates what we see as white light.

Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, near Corbin, Kentucky, sits just outside the Daniel Boone National Forest. Although the park is known for its bird-watching and memorable hiking trails, near the park’s waterfalls is one of the two places in the U.S. where you can see a moonbow.

Since it’s just outside a national forest, the park is dark at night. Plus, the mist caused by water plunging over the Cumberland Falls hangs in the air. In the days before, during, and after a full moon — if the sky is clear — you’ll see the moonbow.

To help plan your visit, the park even publishes a calendar of when the moonbow will occur. You can find that calendar here.

Moonbow in Yosemite. — DTM Media / Shutterstock.com

By the way, if you’re wondering where else moonbows regularly occur, it’s a short list of locations. They are Yosemite Falls at Yosemite National Park in California, Victoria Falls in Africa, and in the cloud forests of Costa Rica.

Know Before You Go

Cumberland Falls State Park Activities

There is plenty of outdoor adventure in the park besides waiting for the moonbow at the second-largest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. The park is home to 17 miles of hiking trails through the scenic areas. The most famous Moonbow Trail is open twenty-four hours to allow hikers to experience the moonbow, a lunar rainbow, during nighttime.

You can also have a memorable birding experience as pileated woodpeckers, wood thrush, and wood warblers pass through the area as they fly from South America to the Northern States and Canada. The Cumberland River is known for bass and trout fishing.

Stay at the Cumberland Falls

For the best experience of Cumberland Falls book a couple of nights at DuPont Lodge, one of the state park’s most beautiful lodges. The historic lodge is great if you appreciate grand stone fireplaces, sturdy hemlock beams, and knotty pine paneling. The Riverview Restaurant and back patio of the DuPont Lodge offer stunning views.

Fifty-one rooms that have that cozy rustic feel offer a full range of amenities and free on-site parking. They also have a large observation deck that offers a scenic view of the river. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park also includes two campgrounds with a total of 50 campsites.

FAQs

What Does Cumberland Falls Moonbow Look Like?

It’s white. The Cumberland Falls moonbow, also called a white rainbow or lunar rainbow, is formed just like a rainbow when light is refracted in tiny water drops. It appears for two or so days on either end of the full moon.

When Can I See the Cumberland Falls Moonbow?

You can see it for two to three days before and after the full moon. After the sunset is your best chance at seeing the Cumberland Falls moonbow. Unlike many Kentucky State Parks, Cumberland Falls State Park is open 24 hours.

Why Is the Cumberland Falls Moonbow Special?

The Cumberland Falls moonbow is unique because it manifests on a fairly predictable schedule. Other moonbows in the Western Hemisphere cannot be calculated like the one at Cumberland Falls. The only other predictable moonbow occurs at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Africa.

What Else Is There to Do at Cumberland Falls?

You can follow the five-mile-long Cumberland River Trail or the longer and more strenuous Moonbow Trail. The river makes for a fishing spot, and bird-watching is something the Cumberland Falls State Park is especially known for.

What Is the Difference Between a Moonbow and a Rainbow?

The source of light is the only difference between a rainbow and a moonbow or a lunar rainbow. Due to the lower intensity of moonlight compared to sunlight, moonbows are generally fainter than rainbows. This adds to their allure and makes them more challenging to spot.

9 Things To Do At Incredible Saguaro Lake, Arizona

Cruises and water sports may not be top of mind when planning a trip to Phoenix or Scottsdale, Arizona. Despite its desert climate, you’ll find several lakes and reservoirs created by dams built to control river flow and provide irrigation. Saguaro Lake in Tonto National Forest is one of these. Located approximately 40 miles east of downtown Phoenix, 20 minutes east of Mesa, Arizona, along the North Bush Highway, the lake was created by the construction of the Steward Mountain Dam on the Salt River. Completed in 1930, it was the last of four reservoirs formed by the damming of that river.

The 1,200-acre lake is 10 miles long and reaches depths of more than 110 feet at its deepest point with an average depth of 90 feet. Its 22 miles of shoreline include rocky crags, canyon walls, marshland, and desert shrubland. Saguaro Lake offers a variety of recreational activities and is the site of a scenic and educational riverboat cruise.

For those reasons, it makes a very fine day trip from Phoenix.

Check out our picks for the best vacation rentals in Arizona for your next trip.

On the water at Saguaro Lake
Photo credit: Paul B. Moore / Shutterstock.com

9 Things To Do At Saguaro Lake, Arizona

1. The Desert Belle

The Desert Belle riverboat has provided a pleasant and relaxing way to enjoy the beauty of Saguaro Lake for over fifty years. On this 90-minute, narrated cruise, you’ll see the rugged desert and mountain beauty, birds, and wildlife. The two-level boat seats 145 passengers inside an air-conditioned lower cabin, on an open deck at the front of the boat, and on the covered open-air upper deck. Seating is first come, first serve. There are bathrooms and a snack bar on board.

The Captain narrates your ride from the upper deck via an intercom system. The ride would be enjoyable even without the narration as you lean back and take in the fresh air and dramatic scenery, but it is worth paying attention to what is being said. Not only does the Captain point out places of interest and wildlife you might otherwise miss, he provides interesting information about the history, geology, plants, and wildlife of the lake, along with fun Arizona myths and trivia.

With only snacks available on the Desert Belle, you may wish to have a more substantial meal before or after your cruise. The Lakeshore Restaurant at the Marina overlooks the lake and offers indoor and outdoor dining. You can take in panoramic views of the mountains or watch the ducks in the water closer to shore.

Saguaro cacti in Arizona
Photo credit: 86Eric_Anthony_Mischke 86 / Shutterstock.com

The Desert Belle sails two to three times a day, depending on the season. Although tickets can be purchased at the walk-up ticket booth if there is still room on the boat, buying advance tickets is recommended to guarantee a seat. Note that payment at the ticket booth is via credit card, check, or traveler’s check. Cash is not accepted at the booth. Credit/debit cards are not accepted on the boat. Snacks and drinks must be purchased with cash. The boat is accessible to people with disabilities. In addition to its regular, narrated cruises, the Desert Belle has special wine, craft beer, and live music sailings. Check the website for details.

2. See Saguaro Cacti

Saguaro Lake is named for the saguaro cactus. The Sonoran desert is the only natural habitat of this iconic symbol of the American West. Although saguaros can reach heights of 40 to 60 feet, they are very slow-growing; a ten-year-old saguaro may be less than a couple of inches tall. It takes 75 to 100 years for saguaros to grow the first of their signature arms. Mature saguaros may have a dozen arms. Others grow none. White saguaro blooms appear on the top of the cactus in May or June, and sometimes as early as April. The fleeting blooms open at night and last through midday. The saguaro flower is the state flower of Arizona.

The scenery changes as you cruise around the lake. Given the lake’s name, you may not be surprised to see saguaros of varying sizes dotting the cliffs and flatlands amid other desert shrubs and cacti. At times, a lone saguaro appears to be growing out of pure rock. However, it may surprise you to discover diverse ecosystems in the lake basin. You’ll pass stands of mesquite and ironwood trees and marshlands filled with cattails.

3. View Wildlife

Many types of birds live here. You may see bald eagles, woodpeckers, hawks, vultures, blue herons, cactus wrens, cardinals, quail, or thrashers. You may also spot wildlife along the shore and up the sides of the mountains. Bighorn sheep are the most common, but the area is also home to coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, and deer. Bring binoculars.

Saguaro Lake paddle boarding — Saguaro Lake is perfect for the kids to try paddle boarding
Photo credit: Dr Kar / Shutterstock.com

4. Water Activities

For those who are interested in more active water activities, Saguaro Lake offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, sailing, waterskiing, and jet skiing. The lake is also a popular fishing hole. It is known for its largemouth bass, but carp, bluegill, rainbow trout, crappie, catfish, walleye, and other kinds of bass are also found. The Arizona Fish and Game Department stocks rainbow trout. (Note that an Arizona fishing license is required.)

Find boat rentals and fishing supplies at Precision Marine at Saguaro Lake Marina.

5. Hiking

For those interested in walking through the scenic Sonoran desert surrounding the lake, Butcher Jones Trail skirts the edge of the lake and winds in and out of the many coves. Suitable for all skill levels, the trail is a total of four miles in and back. It has minimal elevation changes and offers beautiful mountain and lake views. Burro Cove at the end of the trail is a popular fishing spot.

The trailhead is located in the Butcher Jones Recreational Area where you’ll also find a beach and a picnic area.

6. Overnight At The Lake

Bagley Flat Campground is located about four miles from the dam. The 30-site campground is accessible only by boat. There are picnic tables, grills and toilet facilities, but no drinking water and no trash facility. Bring your own drinking water and take your trash with you when you leave.

For overnight accommodations accessible by land and with more amenities, consider Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch. Saguaro Lake Ranch was created out of the work camp built in 1927 for workers building the Stewart Mountain Dam. It later operated as a fishing lodge before it became a guest ranch. Its twenty rustic ranchette cottages feature traditional Western decor. There is a buffet-style dining hall. Amenities to keep you active include a swimming pool, a shuffleboard court, a ping pong table, badminton, and volleyball. Try your hand at kayaking or tubing in the warmer months. Go horseback riding for an “Old West” experience. Trail rides, available full-time from October through April, take you through the majestic Goldfield Mountain range and along the Lower Salt River.

7. Dine With A View

Enjoy a magnificent view of the lake and the mountains while dining at Shiprock Restaurant. Located at Saguaro Lake Marina, the restaurant offers both indoor and patio seating. It is open for breakfast and lunch daily. Early dinners (the restaurant closes at 7 p.m.) are available on Fridays and Saturdays.

8. Take Incredible Photos

Whether you’re an expert or a novice photographer, don’t forget to pack your gear on a visit to this unique location. Incredible birding, amazing wildlife, and landscape opportunities are things that attract a variety of professionals and make photography a popular activity in Saguaro National Park. You’ll also have plenty of chances to capture the amazing sunrises and sunsets.

9. Picnicking at Saguaro Lake

Saguaro Lake boasts seven designated picnic areas and beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for a relaxing day with family and friends. Six of these areas are accessible by vehicle. Butcher Jones Beach is the most popular picnicking area where camping is not permitted.

There are 32 picnic sites with tables, grills, and restroom facilities and it can be reached by a road a few miles north of Saguaro del Norte.

So, pack a delicious picnic and unwind under the shade of mesquite trees, or find a sunny spot to soak up the Arizona sun. Take a refreshing dip in the lake’s cool waters or build sandcastles on the beach. These scenic locations provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban living.

Bonus tip: Visit Fountain Hills

Fountain Hills, situated near Saguaro Lake in Arizona, boasts stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can marvel at the town’s iconic fountain, one of the tallest in the world. Surrounded by desert landscapes and close to the serene waters of Saguaro Lake, it offers a picturesque escape for nature lovers.

Sagauro Lake in the Tonto National Forest — Saguaro Lake in the Tonto National Forest
Photo credit: Brent Coulter / Shutterstock.com

Saguaro Lake is located in Tonto National Forest. A park pass is not required to take the Desert Belle tour or to visit the marina restaurant, but you need a Tonto National Park pass to enter the area for all other activities, including boating, fishing, hiking Butcher Jones Trail and camping. Although the passes are not expensive, they need to be purchased before you get to the lake. Passes are available at a number of gas stations or stores in town. Details can be found on the USDA Forest Service website.

FAQs

How Was Saguaro Lake Formed?

Saguaro Lake was formed by the Stewart Mountain Dam after its completion in 1930. Saguaro Lake was the last of the reservoirs to be built on the Salt River. The lake was named after the Saguaro Cactus, which the area is most known for.

What Makes Saguaro Lake So Special?

Apart from the majestic Saguaro cactus, you’ll be stunned by dramatic desert vistas, towering canyon walls, and the rich and exotic Arizona wildlife. Saguaro Lake is a popular recreation site due to its proximity to Phoenix.

What Can I Do at Saguaro Lake?

Saguaro Lake is ideal for swimming, jet skiing, kayaking, hiking, and picnicking. The Lake is stocked with channel catfish, yellow bass, and other fish so renting a fishing boat or a pontoon boat is a great idea. The Saguaro Lake Recreational Area includes the Saguaro Lake Marina with boat ramps and the Lakeshore Restaurant.

Where Can I swim in Saguaro Lake?

Butcher Jones Beach is set aside for swimming and picnicking only with picnic tables and restroom facilities. Butcher Jones Beach can be reached by a road a few miles north of Saguaro del Norte and is open from April through September.

How to Get to Saguaro Lake?

Saguaro Lake is a 40-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. From Mesa, it’s a 27-mile drive on State Highway 87 to Bush Highway, and from Scottsdale, take Shea Boulevard or McDowell Road east to SR 87, then turn north on Beeline. Saguaro Lake is on the right, about 8 miles after crossing the Verde River.

Visiting Copenhagen, Denmark: What To Know Before You Go

Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital, part of Northern Europe’s Nordic countries and Scandinavian culture.

The name itself, Copenhagen, has an interesting history. The original Danish name for the word meant “merchants’ harbor,” and through German translations, became known as Copenhagen.

Copenhagen is a unique city, characterized by its canals, cycling culture, strong economy, and happy locals. It is actually known as being the happiest city in the world, due to its shorter workdays, free college tuition, more vacation days, and levels of personal interaction.

Beyond being the happiest city in the world, Copenhagen is home to excellent Danish cuisine, a magnificent transportation system, stunning churches and museums, and even a hippie commune that attracts foreign visitors from across the globe.

The following guide will give you the ins and outs of this stunning capital city, with information on weather, what to eat, what to see, how to get around, and where to stay.

Visiting Copenhagen, Denmark – Our Full Guide

Weather In Copenhagen

Average High/Low Temperatures By Month

January: 38°/30°F
February: 38°/30°F
March: 43°/33°F
April: 51°/39°F
May: 62°/47°F
June: 68°/53°F
July: 71°/57°F
August: 71°/57°F
September: 63°/51°F
October: 54°/45°F
November: 45°/38°F
December: 40°/33°F

Months With The Most Rainfall/Snow

June through September and November see averages of 2.4 inches of rain per month. The annual rainfall in Denmark averages 24 inches of precipitation, and Copenhagen has an average of 170 rainy days throughout the year.

Winter in Copenhagen is gloomy with minimal sunshine, and there are sometimes extreme amounts of snow. Despite the capital city’s snowy months from December until early March, the snow usually subsides quickly and seldom lasts very long.

Climate

Copenhagen has an oceanic climate, which can vary greatly throughout the year. Beyond the city’s previously mentioned rainy and snowy months, June sees the most sunshine in Copenhagen, with an average of around eight hours of sun per day. On June 21 of this year, Copenhagen will experience it’s annual Summer Solstice, with extended hours of sunshine during this day. July is the warmest month in Copenhagen.

Best Time To Visit

Deciding the best time to visit Copenhagen all depends on the individual traveler’s tastes! June and July are the city’s warmest months, with average high temperatures around 70ºF. Temperatures are ideal during summer months in Copenhagen, a great excuse to hop on a bike and cruise around the city like a true Copenhagener!

If you’re like me and you love Europe’s festive holiday markets, you may want to visit Copenhagen during the winter. It is cold, yes, but the city boasts an array of charming Christmas markets, filled with unique gifts, souvenirs, and, of course, the ever-so-popular mulled wine known as Glogg.

What To Pack

Considering Copenhagen’s constantly changing and unpredictable weather, it would be in a traveler’s best interest to pack both warm and light clothes, depending on when you’re going to visit.

Don’t forget the essentials when packing for a trip to Copenhagen: a warm coat, light jacket, sunglasses, an umbrella, a scarf, hat, gloves, rain boots, and other comfortable walking shoes!

As you can see, there’s a lot of things to know before going to Copenhagen!

The Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. — Anastasia Pelikh / Shutterstock

Best Things To See In Copenhagen

1. Tivoli Gardens

An amusement park and pleasure garden, Tivoli Gardens is situated in central Copenhagen, offering rides, games, musicals, ballet, and major concerts.

Travelers visiting Tivoli Gardens can catch stunning views of the city on the Ferris Wheel, embark on virtual reality adventures, or test-taste various Danish specialities throughout the park’s many food stalls.

2. Little Mermaid Statue

The Little Mermaid statue is unquestionably one of Copenhagen’s biggest tourist attractions, a gift given to the City of Copenhagen from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen in 1938. This bronze and granite sculpture is inspired by Danish author Hans Christian Anderson’s famous fairytales.

3. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is a 400-year-old Renaissance castle built by Christian IV, quickly becoming the former king’s favorite castle and venue for special events. When visiting the castle, guests can gaze upon Christian IV’s possessions, the Danish Crown Jewels, Knights’ Hall, and the Princess’ Chamber.

4. Nyhavn

Nyhavn is one of the most recognizable spots in Copenhagen, with its beautiful, old, colorful houses lined across the former commercial port.

What was once a popular hangout for sailors filled with pubs, alehouses, and ladies of leisure has since been renovated and features an abundance of restaurants with jazz music and a relaxed atmosphere along the canal.

5. Church Of Our Savior

One of Denmark’s most renowned churches, Church of Our Savior was inaugurated in 1752 and has attracted visitors across the globe as a popular pastime to climb the 400 steps to the top. Each year, more than 60,000 people climb the flights of stairs to the top of the church, standing 270 feet above street level.

A hot dog from Copenhagen. — Rezi Koudelkova / Shutterstock

Best Food To Eat In Copenhagen

1. Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are life in Denmark. The nation consumes more pork than anyone in the world, with the average Danish citizen consuming around 142 pounds of pork per year. Linked to this fun fact is the culture of hot dogs in Denmark.

‘Sausage wagons’ abound in Copenhagen, and a trip to this unique capital city wouldn’t be complete without taste-testing a proper Danish hot dog, topped with crispy fried onions, pickles, and creamy remoulade.

2. Rugbrød

Rugbrød is a very common form of rye bread in Denmark, resembling a long brown and expelled rectangle. This popular Danish bread is commonly slathered with cured or pickled fish, meat, pâté, or pickled vegetables, and is usually served for lunch.

3. Smørrebrød

Similar to rugbrød, smørrebrød normally consists of a piece of buttered rye bread, topped with homemade cold cuts, fish, meat, cheese, and garnishes. Smørrebrød is the ultimate Danish sandwich.

4. Stegt Flæsk

Consisting of fried pork belly and served with potatoes, a white sauce, and chopped parsley, stegt flæsk could be translated literally to “crisp fried pork strips” and is the national dish of Denmark. Needless to say, you shouldn’t leave Copenhagen without trying stegt flæsk.

5. Risalamande

Typically served at Christmas, risalamande is a traditional Danish dessert, made out of rice pudding and mixed with whipped cream, vanilla, and chopped almonds.

6. Danish pastries

If you’re traveling around Copenhagen and want a quick bite to eat, either for breakfast or in between tourist attractions, hop into any bakery that smells good and grab yourself a Danish pastry.

Traditional Danish pastries are multi-layered and made with sweetened yeast dough, usually topped with fillings such as fruit, nuts, or cheese.

Best Kept Secret In Copenhagen

Freetown Christiania

Tucked away in the borough of Copenhagen’s Christianshavn neighborhood lies Freetown Christiania, an intentional community and commune of around 850 to 1,000 residents.

This hidden gem and alternative neighborhood in Copenhagen is home to various concert venues and halls, bars, organic and vegetarian eateries, workshops, art galleries, and beautiful nature. It’s also home to Christiania Smedie, the oldest business in all of Freetown Christiania.

Christiania Smedie was a blacksmith that originally opened in the ’70s. Primarily producing furnaces in its early years, Christiania Smedie then shifted its focus to creating crate bikes for the car-free community of Christiania.

Another big draw to this hippie commune is its Green Light District. There were once several stalls along Pusher Street where visitors could purchase an array of cannabis products. But today, locals have tried to halt the buying and selling of marijuana in Christiania, due to conflicts surrounding drugs in the area, though remnants of this culture are still prevalent.

Regardless of the reason you wish to visit Christiania, a stop at this quaint hippie district will be worth your while.

People riding bikes in downtown Copenhagen. — lkoimages / Shutterstock

Other Things To Do In Copenhagen

Take a Canal Cruise

Copenhagen boasts some very charming canals that are adorned with sailboats and vividly-colored buildings. Nyhavn is the most popular canal, but there are also lesser-known, picturesque areas like Christianshavn.

Cooking Classes And Food Tours

Danish cuisine is some of the best in the world, and Copenhagen offers an array of cooking classes and food tours, an essential outing for foodie travelers!

CPH Good Food invites guests to eat their way through Nordic food and traditions while highlighting unique ingredients and simple techniques of Nordic cuisine.

COH Good Food offers three different courses: Nordic Cuisine for the Home Cook, Nordic Baking, and Nordic Terroir. Courses run throughout the weekdays and cost between $230-$307 USD (1500-2000 DKK).

Copenhagen Food Tour is another great way to indulge in Danish cuisine, a unique opportunity to experience authentic Copenhagen through delicious food, all while listening to fascinating stories about the city’s history.

Rent Bikes

One of the most defining characteristics of Denmark as a whole is its cycling culture, similar to that of the Netherlands.

Among a lot of things to do in Copenhagen, renting a bike and riding around the city is a must, and a trip to the Danish capital wouldn’t really be complete without doing so. You’ll feel like a local, and it’s a great way to see all of the city’s main tourist attractions while saving time on wheels!

Pro Tip: Copenhagen’s bike lanes are often nestled between the sidewalk and the road so make sure not to step out into the bike lane without looking. It’s like stepping out into the road without looking.

Nyhavn in Copenhagen. — Iryna Kalamurza / Shutterstock

Best Areas To Stay In Copenhagen

1. Indre By (Old City)

Known as the inner city, Indre By is Copenhagen’s oldest neighborhood, filled with pleasant walking streets, and a handful of the city’s most famous museums and churches. This area offers some of the best hotels in the capital city.

2. Nyhavn (New Harbor)

A neighborhood as well as a canal, Nyhavn is situated within Indre By and is one of the trendiest places in the city. If you’re coming to Copenhagen to taste some exquisite Danish cuisine, you’ll want to stay in this neighborhood. Nyhavn is home to the city’s restaurant culture, with the main street being lined with endless top-notch restaurants.

3. Christianshavn

Christianshavn is a picturesque small village right in the center of the city, an eclectic area with 16th century houses, old brick lanes, and quaint canals. Residing in Christianshavn in Copenhagen will also be your ticket in the door to visiting Christiania.

4. Frederiksberg

Known as Copenhagen’s beautiful theater district, Frederiksberg is a municipality in itself, consisting of several world-class theaters. It is known amongst locals as the Beverly Hills of Copenhagen.

Getting Around Copenhagen

While you can see a lot of Copenhagen on foot, the city offers some superb public transportation, including a metro, trains, and buses. All of these modes of transportation can be accessed using the same card known as the CityPass, which covers the trip to and from the airport to Copenhagen, and allows travel through the rest of the Greater Copenhagen area. With the CityPass, travelers can enjoy unlimited travel on buses, trains, and the metro.

The metro in Copenhagen runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. During rush hour, there are 2-4 minutes between trains; outside of rush hour, trains stop every 3-6 minutes. After midnight, trains run less frequently.

The S-Trains in Copenhagen run between 5:00 a.m. and half past midnight, with Line F running every 4-5 minutes, and Lines A, B, C, and E running every 10 minutes.

Aerial view of Copenhagen. — S-F / Shutterstock

Key Danish Phrases

When traveling to Copenhagen, don’t be afraid to fully immerse yourself in the culture and test out your Danish speaking skills! Even if you feel like you’re butchering it, locals from any country usually appreciate foreigners making an effort. When traveling abroad, a little effort can go a long way.

While Danes typically have a very high level of English, learning and practicing the following important words and phrases could potentially make your trip to Copenhagen a little easier. Even if you don’t attempt to speak the language while you’re there, at least recognizing these phrases in conversation could help you find where the bathroom is, or know how much something costs.

The following vital Danish phrases are sure to help you during your trip to Copenhagen.

Hello: Hej
Good morning: God morgen
Goodbye: Farvel
Please: Hvis du vil være så venlig at
Thank you: Mange tak
Yes: Ja
No: Nej
You’re welcome: Selv tak
Excuse me: Undskyld
How much?: Hvad koster det?
Bathroom: Toilet (herrer)= Men’s; toilet (damer)= Women’s
Do you speak English?: Taler du engelsk?
I don’t speak Danish: Jeg taler ikke dansk

If you’re worried about the pronunciation of some of these phrases, check out Useful Danish Words and Phrases for help with pronunciation.

Things To Know About Danish Culture

1. Mind Your Manners

The Danes are incredibly particular about manners and politeness, so make sure you’re on your best behavior in Copenhagen!

2. The Art Of (Not) Saying ‘Thank You’

Despite the truth that Danes are incredibly polite, don’t expect many ‘thank you’s’ when visiting Copenhagen.

In the Danish language, the words for ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ are simply redundant, thus Danes will rarely say these words in conversation due to their already constant politeness.

3. Privacy, Privacy, Privacy

It is well known that Danes are very private people, and really getting to know Copenhageners might be difficult during your travels. It’s not because locals don’t want to talk to foreigners, they just live with the notion that everyone is busy and has their own lives, and they don’t want to interrupt, bother, or disturb anyone.

4. Superficiality

Danes have a problem with superficiality, and you won’t find anyone being ‘fake nice’ in Denmark or Copenhagen. It’s one of the reasons they find the question “How are you?” so amusing. To people from Denmark, saying “how are you” is blatantly superficial, for most people don’t actually mind or listen to how a person responds to the question.

5. Punctuality

Like many Scandinavian countries, punctuality is key. Relating to the ways in which Danes are overtly polite and well-mannered, being punctual is just another layer to that!

6. Outspokenness

Danes are known for being outspoken, which can oftentimes come off as rude. Try not to take offense to any locals “telling it like it is” and understand that openly expressing yourself and your opinions is simply part of Danish culture.

7. ‘Hygge”: Learn It, love It

You may hear the term ‘hygge’ while traveling through Copenhagen and wonder what that means.

Hygge is a Danish term that doesn’t necessarily have a direct translation or meaning, but more broadly refers to the country’s most prototypical social commodity of being in a state of comfort, relaxation, and peace with the ones around you, usually while out eating and drinking.

8. Mind Your Looks

Many Danes are known for their propriety which is demonstrated in almost every aspect of their culture. While your attire can be casual, ensure your clothes are tidy and clean. Copenhageners dress stylishly yet practically, favoring comfortable attire like jeans and sneakers for daily wear. If you’re dining out, jeans are generally not acceptable.

In professional settings, business casual is standard, often showcasing minimalist, well-tailored outfits.

Special occasions call for fashionable attire, blending Scandinavian simplicity with contemporary trends. Copenhagen’s cycling culture influences clothing choices, with an emphasis on practical yet stylish outfits suitable for city biking.

FAQs

Why Visit Copenhagen?

You can enjoy Copenhagen’s unique atmosphere, rich culture, 20+ restaurants with Michelin stars, colorful buildings, and numerous landmarks. Visiting Copenhagen must be at the top of your list if you are considering traveling to Scandinavia.

What Is the Best Way to Explore Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is best explored on two wheels. Other alternatives include public transportation or a free walking tour. Buy a Copenhagen Card and you will save money by getting free rides on public transportation and free admission to more than 80 attractions.

When to Visit Copenhagen?

The peak summer months are best to visit Copenhagen if you want any chance of clear blue skies. Christmastime is the fairytale season in Copenhagen but also very busy. Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit if you want fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation.

What Are Copenhagen’s Top Attractions?

Copenhagen’s most significant tourist attractions are Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid statue, the Round Tower, the Amalienborg, and the Christiansborg Palaces. Visit Rosenborg Castle, Frederik’s Church, Copenhagen’s many museums, and the world’s most famous restaurants.

How to Get to Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is best reached by flying into Copenhagen Airport. The metro is the cheapest way to get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center in less than 15 minutes. To get to the city center you can use any form of public transportation or a taxi, which isn’t cheap.

Castellfollit de la Roca, Spain | This Tiny Village Is One Of The Most Photographed Places In the Country

There’s a reason why Castellfollit de la Roca is one of the most photographed towns in Spain. The town, which is more than 1,000 years old, appears to be perched precariously on the edge of a 164-foot-high cliff. What’s more, the basalt cliff’s edge is very narrow, so the town’s houses stretch along the edge of the cliff in a long line.

Castellfollit de la Roca, Spain – A Tiny Village Popular Among Photography Buffs

The Cliff’s Formation

Castellfollit de la Roca is a municipality in the La Garrocha region, in the province of Girona. It is part of the judicial district of the neighboring town of Olot.

As is usually the case when towns are set in breathtaking spots, the location is a result of unique geologic activity. In this case, the cliff’s formation is due to lava flow — or more accurately, two overlapping lava flows.

The basaltic ridge Castellfollit de la Roca sits on was formed when two lava flows converged. First, approximately 217,000 years ago, lava flow came from volcanoes in the Batet de la Serra area, near Olot, Fascinating Spain explains. The other lava flow came from volcanoes near San Juan les Fonts approximately 192,000 years ago.

A Picturesque Village

This amazing European destination that feels like time stood still, with a population of 961, has narrow streets that “still carry the characteristics of its medieval origin, and the city center features ramparts that fortified the town during the civil war,” Atlas Obscura explains.

Castellfollit de la Roca is renowned for its dramatic setting atop a sheer basalt cliff, overlooking the Fluvià River. Its unique geological formation, coupled with its charming medieval architecture, creates a picturesque scene that attracts visitors seeking both natural beauty and historical intrigue.

“Many houses and streets in the city center are also built of the dark, volcanic rock that serves as a pedestal for the town,” the article continues. “The main street of Castellfollit winds through the entire town, narrowly pressed between houses on both sides, straining to remain on the cliff face.”

Adding to the town’s beauty are two rivers — Fluvià and Toronell — one on each side of the cliff. As if that isn’t enough, the city is known for its beautiful sunsets, as the sun’s rays illuminate the rocky cliff.

Building in Castellfollit de la Roca. — funkyfrogstock / Shutterstock.com

Sites To See

Once at Castellfollit de la Roca, there are two landmarks that simply must be seen in person.

The first is the San Salvador church, which is located at one end of the cliff. First built in the 13th century, the church has a square bell tower and has openings on each side. The bell tower is crowned by a dome decorated with small pilasters. It still preserves several reused basalt ashlars and a late Romanesque window, Fascinating Spain explains.

The second site to visit is the clock tower, located in Sant Roc Square, where the town hall is also located. The top of the clock tower features a clock and its bell tower. A fountain sits near the clock tower’s base.

View of Castellfollit de la Roca. — David Ortega Baglietto / Shutterstock.com

The Local Cuisine

The Garrotxa volcanic area’s hearty gastronomy is famous for its local ingredients such as Sant Pau beans and wild mushrooms. There are a small handful of traditional restaurants in Castellfollit de la Roca that offer jaw-dropping views you’ll struggle to find elsewhere.

Foodies will also enjoy a visit to the El Museu de l’Embotit dedicated to Catalan charcuterie. You can retrace the history of meat curing in Spain and sample artisan-cured meats and sausages.

The Girona Region Is Easy to Explore

The village is often visited as part of a day trip to the Girona region and the Catalan countryside. The historic town of Sant Joan les Fonts seamlessly blends centuries-old architecture and breathtaking hiking trails. Olot serves as the capital of the Girona region while Besalú is renowned for its historic bridge and well-preserved medieval architecture.

The Views Are Fantastic

If the view of the town is impressive, so too is the view you can enjoy from standing at the Josep Pla Square viewpoint. Not for the faint-hearted, the 160-meter sheer drop that stands at the end of the village opens up onto Fluviá and Toronell Rivers beneath and you can soak up some breathtaking views of the valley down below.

Know Before You Go

One of the most picturesque villages I’ve visited, Castellfollit de la Roca is 5 miles away from Olot. Buses run to Castellfollit de la Roca from Girona (about 30 miles away) and from Barcelona (about 75 miles away).

To visit Castellfollit de la Roca from the USA, fly to Barcelona–El Prat Airport in Spain. From Barcelona, you can drive or take a bus or train to Castellfollit de la Roca

FAQs

Do People Still Live in Castellfollit de la Roca?

Yes, about 1,000 residents live among the narrow streets of Castellfollit de la Roca, one of the smallest towns in Catalonia, Spain. The historic old town, perched on top of a cliff ledge between two rivers, dates back to the Middle Ages.

What Is the History of Castellfollit de la Roca?

Castellfollit de la Roca is a more than millennia-old town. It has its origins in the Middle Ages and consists of squares and dark, narrow streets. The houses are mostly made from volcanic rocks.

Where in Castellfollit de la Roca Can I Get the Best Views?

The Josep Pla Square viewpoint is right on the edge of the cliff and offers stunning landscapes and views. Sant Salvador Church and, above all, the village’s natural surroundings can be fully appreciated from the Josep Pla Square viewpoint.

Why Is Castellfollit de la Roca So Special?

Set between the Fluviá and Toronell Rivers, Catalonia Castellfollit de la Roca is one of the most picturesque villages in the whole of Spain. The old church and houses cling to the top of a spectacular basalt rock face, which has become one of the most widely recognized images of the region.

What Are Castellfollit de la Roca’s Most Beautiful Attractions?

Its most noteworthy attractions are Sant Salvador Church, which dates from the 13th century, and the village’s gorgeous natural surroundings. A trip to the Cós Sanctuary is also strongly recommended.