Sometimes the only way to truly love New Orleans is to leave it. Whether you're fleeing from the brutally hot and humid weather or simply looking for a respite from the Big Easy's riot of colors and sounds, here are a few of the best day trips from New Orleans.

Get swampy in Barataria Preserve

There are all sorts of swamp tours that operate out of New Orleans – we're even recommending one below – but one of our favorite ways to experience the south Louisiana wetlands is a visit to Barataria Preserve, a national park located about 25 miles south of New Orleans. Easy trails – dirt and boardwalk – thread through the swamps, and you may be able to spot local alligators, although wildlife viewing is often hindered by prolific invasive water flora. On your way back to New Orleans, make sure to pop into the superlatively good Tan Dinh for some excellent Vietnamese food.

How to get to Barataria Preserve: Take US-90 and cross the Crescent City Connection Bridge over the Mississippi to the New Orleans West Bank. From US-90, take exit 4B to access Barataria Blvd which takes you to the preserve.

Learn about the history of slavery at the Whitney Plantation

A cluster of restored mansions sits roughly 50 miles west of New Orleans, with the Whitney being the most interesting of the bunch to visit. While most plantations now pay lip service to the history of slavery, the Whitney is a museum dedicated to unpacking the grim institution. Through a series of thoughtful exhibits, the Whitney demonstrates how the South did not just benefit from but was built upon chattel slavery.

How to get to the Whitney Plantation: The most direct route is I-10 West for about 40 miles, then detour south on LA-641 for another 10 miles.

Visit Cajun Country in Lafayette

Cajun country is as fabled a destination as New Orleans, a land of low prairies, deep swamps, good music and delicious meals that you may never want to let your cardiologist know about. "Acadiana," as the area is known, consists of many small towns scattered over southwest Louisiana. The capital of the region is Lafayette, a friendly small city located 140 miles west of New Orleans, packed with great food and excellent live music venues – don’t leave without stopping in for a night of dancing at the Blue Moon.

How to get to Lafayette: Take I-10 West for about 2-and-a-half hours. Part of the route goes through the preserved Atchafalaya Basin, one of the state’s remaining wild wetlands.

See small-town Louisiana in St Francisville

When the furnace of New Orleans gets too hot or you just need some small-town arts atmosphere, head north about 120 miles to St Francisville, a tidy bohemian retreat set amidst hills and forests. A glut of historical buildings, cute cafes, antique-and-artsy shopping and hiking trails through the woods makes for a perfect break from New Orleans.

How to get to St Francisville: Take I-10 West up through the state capital to Baton Rouge, take exit 8C to get on I-110 North. From there, take US-61 North to St Francisville.

Feel the beach vibes on the Mississippi Gulf Shore

Despite being totally tied to the water, there’s no real beach access in New Orleans, barring a few stretches of not very friendly sand on Lake Pontchartrain. While the beaches of Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island, Alabama, are pretty lovely, they’re also a fair distance. Consider instead the decent sand, friendly restaurants and generally laid-back seashore vibe at Mississippi Gulf Coast towns like Bay St Louis and Gulfport. While this area can get inundated with day-trippers on hot weekends, you can still embark on a relatively quiet escape during the week.

How to get to Mississippi Gulf Shore: It depends on where you’re going, but this advice applies from Biloxi to the Alabama border – just head east on I-10.

Visit sleepy (but a little weird) North Shore

The north shore of Lake Pontchartrain is made up of several bedroom suburbs of New Orleans and radiates a more sedate vibe than what you’ll find in the Crescent City. Attractions include sampling some brews at the Abita Brewery or exploring the surreal madness of the Abita Mystery House, one of the state’s great roadside attractions. Need a place to stay? Cabins at Fontainebleau State Park are raised on stilts over Lake Pontchartrain and make for a supremely relaxing, breezy escape.

How to get to the North Shore: To cross Lake Pontchartrain, take I-10 West and exit to cross the Pontchartrain Causeway, one of the largest bridges in the world.

Smell the flowers and taste the hot sauce in New Iberia

The hazy, humid town of New Iberia sits about 140 miles west of New Orleans. On the sleepy main streets you’ll find the well-preserved plantation of Shadows on the Teche, and just outside of town is the area’s main attraction: Avery Island (not really much of island), home of a huge salt mine and the headquarters of Tabasco, the iconic hot sauce maker. You can take a tour of the Tabasco Factory, and afterward amuse yourself by exploring the nearby Jungle Gardens, a sort of hybrid botanical retreat, wildlife preserve, aviary and a slice of historical trivia.

How to get to New Iberia: US-90 West gets you almost 100 percent into New Iberia, and you’ll get to see some low-lying Louisiana prairie and farmland on the way.

Paddle Louisiana swamps

While it’s great fun to trod a boardwalk at Barataria or watch an old fisherman point out gators on a motorized boat tour, there’s something utterly otherworldly about paddling the Louisiana swamps. It’s a strange, primal, beautiful experience; you are at once present in the midst of the bayou, yet also deeply aware that you are a visitor to this ecosystem, a fish out of water (or a human gliding across it, more accurately).

Louisiana Lost Land Tours, conducted by local environmental experts, give participants an excellent kayaking experience, as well as a solid grounding in the unique environmental issues confronting south Louisiana.

How to get to the Louisiana swamps: Lost Lands will help you coordinate the launching point for your swamp adventure.

Experience the spectacle of sporty Baton Rouge

A lot of New Orleanians blow off Baton Rouge – named for a red stick used as a geographic marker by local Native Americans. This may be known as the state’s grey, faceless capital, yet it's also a sprawling town with some decent attractions. Football games at LSU are a non-stop display of pageantry and spectacle; it's a glimpse into the football-mad world of the American South where a tailgating party is a monumental sports moment. For a quieter experience, the Rural Life Museum is a window onto the state’s past.

How to get to Baton Rouge: The "BR" is an easy 80-mile trek northwest of New Orleans via I-10.

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This article was originally published on August 20, 2019.

Swamps, small towns and cajun food: Top 9 day trips from New Orleans

As the gateway to the Pacific Northwest, Oregon offers visitors a broad range of activities, from coastal viewpoints to volcanic peaks to rolling hills flush with vineyards.

If you’re willing to drive (and drive a lot), there are a slew of trips that each provide their own uniquely Oregon experience, whether you’re looking for outdoor scenery, extreme adventure, or a dose of literary and culinary history. From scenic day trips to multi-day excursions, here are our favorite road trips in Oregon.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Best road trip for scenic photographers
Start – La Grande; End – Baker City; Distance – 213 miles

For the family looking for a long weekend escape or the adventurous #vanlife couple angling for that next great travel vlog, the Wallowa Mountains and Hells Canyon Scenic Byway are bristling with opportunities for road-trippers who enjoy an active respite from the hours on the asphalt.

Winding mountain roads take you through a handful of Oregon’s most iconic small towns, including La Grande, Joseph (bonus points if you listen to the band of the same name on your way through), and concluding in Baker City.

Midway through the trip, be sure to stop off at Wallowa Lake State Park, home of the impressive Wallowa Mountain Range, and a large part of what makes this one of the best road trips in Oregon. Nicknamed “Little Switzerland” for its pristine glacial peaks and fresh alpine air, Wallowa Lake and the surrounding Eagle Cap Wilderness also feature a tramway, where visitors can ascend to the top of the impressive Mount Howard, over 8000ft above sea level.

Top things to do in Oregon

The 101: PNW edition

Best road trip for beachgoers
Start – Bandon; End – Pacific City; Distance – 168.5 miles

Monumental, jagged cliffs overhang crashing waves as seals, whales and other wildlife make their home in the murky blue depths below. The Oregon coast remains one of the most picturesque locations in the country, and, consequently, one of the best road trips for scenery the Beaver state has to offer.

The trip starts in Bandon, a small but oft-mentioned town about 100 miles north of the California border. Play a round at the legendary Bandon Dunes Golf Course (where the PGA Junior Tour is held each year), and try to leave with the same number of golf balls you arrived with.

Next, as the 101 winds its way east from the coastal cliffs, stop off in Florence, an inlet town at the mouth of the Siuslaw River (and only 60 minutes from Eugene), for a night or a weekend spent four-wheeling across the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

For the extra bold, the Siuslaw Dunes Daybreak Racing offers a 25k or 50k footrace that treks across the dunes, the beach, and a forest trail all in the same course. After that, visit Nye’s Beach in Newport, located almost exactly halfway up the Oregon coast, and only an hour outside of Corvallis, home to Oregon State University.

Don’t let your visit pass by without a tour of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse (originally erected in 1871), and keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales in the early fall. The last stop on this epic coastal tour is Pacific City, site of yet another coastal dune and the flagship location of Oregon’s own Pelican Brewing, where guests can sip on hop-laden Pacific Northwest IPAs or the flagship Kiwanda Cream Ale while watching the Dory Boats (a traditional, flat-bottomed boat meant to sit on top of the surf) launch from the shore.

11 best beaches in Oregon

Trace Oregon’s literary history

The best road trip for book lovers
Start – Bridge of the Gods (Columbia River Gorge); End – Salem; Distance – 87 miles

Whether you’re an Oregon native or just a really big fan of Powell’s Books, this road trip itinerary features the state’s most well-known literary landmarks. The first stop includes a short drive up the Columbia River Gorge to the Bridge of the Gods, where Cheryl Strayed, author of the memoir Wild, finished her inspirational journey on the Pacific Crest Trail. Enjoy fantastic views of the Columbia River, as well as the feeling of being just one degree removed from literary stardom.

Next, venture from the Gorge into Portland, where you can spend time visiting all of the highlighted passages in Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Quimby series, from her iconic home on Klickitat Street to Central Library, where Cleary worked when she first conceived of the novels.

Follow the Multnomah County Library’s “ Walking with Ramona ” for a full list of locations and the literary events that happened there.

Finish off your real-life book tour by visiting the site of Ken Kesey’s famous novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest in Salem. While the book was based on an unnamed location in Oregon, the movie was filmed in the Oregon State Hospital, transformed in 2012 into the Oregon State Museum of Mental Health.

Especially eager bibliophiles can also add the State Library of Oregon to their list, located just across town in the historic district.

The 25 best hikes in Oregon

Surf & Turf: The Hood to Coast road trip

The best road trip for outdoor enthusiasts
Start – Portland; End – Rockaway Beach; Distance – 222 miles

A long-running PNW sufferfest, the Hood to Coast relay is an annual summer tradition that brings runners across the varied terrain of Oregon’s volcanic peaks all the way to the rocky coast. But, why run when you can drive, and ski, and surf, all in the same day?

While most easily completed from Portland, this road trip itinerary can technically be started anywhere. The first stop is the well-known Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort, where skiers, snowboarders and sledders can find skiable snow in season almost six months out of the year. After spending the morning shredding the slopes, trade the bibs for a wetsuit and start your trek to the coast.

Just under three hours away, Rockaway Beach is a somewhat lesser-visited beach with a great local restaurant scene. If you leave the slopes after lunch, you’ll arrive just in time for an evening wave sesh as the sun sets over the scenic coastline. Top off your surf n’ turf day with a surf n’ turf meal at the Old Town Smokehouse, a no-frills seafood joint that’s been impressing locals and tourists alike for decades.

The Fruit Loop

The best road trip for foodies
Start – Hood River; End – Hood River; Distance – 35 miles

Oregon’s seasonal fruit crops offer a tasty reward to anyone who can make it through the wet winter months. Beginning just above Hood River off of Highway 35, this 35-mile Fruit Loop features 25 different fruit stands, farms and u-pick centers that feature the Pacific Northwest’s finest selection of homegrown fruit.

Start with a fresh pear picking at The Gorge White House, followed by a fresh cider tasting at Fox Tail Cider & Distillery. Move onto lunch at the Packer Orchards & Bakery, and give your lavender picking skills a test at the renowned Hood River Lavender Farm.

Not sure you can do it all in one visit? The beauty of the Fruit Loop is that the fruits vary season to season, making this an easy choice as one of the best road trips in Oregon for foodies and fresh-picking fanatics alike.

Catch fresh Hood Strawberries in the early summer, blackberries and cherries in the middle of July, or the reliably delicious Oregon apples in the fall.

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The 5 best road trips in Oregon for every type of adventurer 

Nashville has been on a serious roll in recent years.

Country-music stars are slapping their names on brand-new honky-tonks. Boutique hotels seem to open monthly. Bachelors and bachelorettes are arriving in hordes to party. And acclaimed chefs are going far beyond the meat-and-three, though biscuits and hot chicken are doing just fine.

But where to base your hub in Music City?

Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, a fun history lesson, fodder for your Instagram feed, or a memorable meal, you can find it in Nashville neighborhoods from Donelson to 12 South. Wondering what Music City has in store? We've broken it down district by district so you know exactly where to go.

Downtown and the Gulch

Best for honky-tonks, live music and nightlife

Lower Broadway is downtown's country heart, thumping with shops, restaurants and honky-tonks. South of Lower Broadway is known as SoBro, anchored by the Music City Center and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Printers Alley, just west of 2nd Ave N, is a narrow cobblestoned lane known for its nightlife. Along the Cumberland River, Riverfront Park and, across the pedestrian bridge, Cumberland Park are landscaped promenades, home to a greenway, a dog park and an amphitheater. The Gulch, once an industrial railway yard, has gone glossy with hip restaurants and upscale shops, while microbreweries cluster in the Brewery District.

Downtown Nashville is rich with cultural attractions and fine places to drink and dine, so count on a few days to explore the area. Immerse yourself in music, beginning at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Then head over to the brand-new National Museum of African American Music for a look at the impact Black musicians have had on the American songbook.

Next take a stroll by the Music City Walk of Fame across the street and look for the star of your favorite Nashville musician. For lunch, take your pick of innovative new restaurants – there's one in every direction. Stop by a brewery or two in the Brewery District, followed by a walk through the Gulch, where patios lure you in for an afternoon snack. Your evening ends with live music, and probably more beer, at the honky-tonks lining Lower Broadway.

Recent years have brought celebrity-owned and branded bars, but Robert's Western World, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, and Layla's Bluegrass Inn are still our favorites.

East Nashville

Best for local flavor and culture

The word hipster is overused when describing East Nashville. Yes, many of its new residents can be found making small-batch foods, donning eclectic vintage apparel, brewing creative beers and sipping complex coffees. But the neighborhood holds a true cross-section of the community, from working class to tech nerd. Despite that diversity, the residents here share one trait: passion. Come to appreciate their creativity – shop the pop-up retailers, sample the specialty chocolate, try a dish in the farm-friendly eatery, and sip the seasonal brews. For lush natural distractions, hit Shelby Bottoms Park.

Start your explorations at the Nashville Biscuit House on Gallatin Ave, the busy main drag. Next up is Shelby Bottoms Park along the Cumberland River. Here you can rent a bicycle and pedal from the railroad bridge into the riparian greenery, seeing up-close the importance of the river for regional commerce. Continue exploring with a drive through upscale Lockeland Springs, and then head to the Fatherland District, an artisanal shopping hub. Nearby you'll see new homes under construction as the neighborhood seems to transform right before your eyes.

Hit an Eastland Ave eatery for lunch, and then browse nearby boutiques and vintage shops. Take a photo at one of East Nashville's many murals before settling in for cornhole and conversation at a microbrewery. Not ready for beer? Try a complicated coffee at Barista Parlor or explore a music shop or chocolate factory. Afterwards, travel to the block of Main St, between 7th and McFerrin Ave, for craft beers and a handful of the neighborhood's top restaurants. Hot chicken, elevated Southern fare and craft cocktails are in your future here. Head north, back to Gallatin Ave, to let loose at a bar or nightclub.

The next day, meander over to bustling Five Points, an intriguing mishmash of dive bars, stylish restaurants and pop-up retailers clustered around Woodland Ave. It's also the site of the wacky Tomato Arts Festival, which happens every August. End with a meal at one of East Nashville's farm-to-table eateries and a show at the beloved 5 Spot.

Germantown and North Nashville

Best for foodies and history

Home to German immigrants in the mid-1850s, Germantown has become a dining and shopping standout. Local chefs are earning national kudos, new boutiques are thoughtfully curated and specialty shops feature well-crafted products. With easy-strolling sidewalks and a bit of greenery, this neighborhood is an oasis. Compact Germantown can be explored in a half-day, but stretch it out to enjoy the restaurant scene, which buzzes with more than a dozen acclaimed eateries. Fuel up with a craft java from a local purveyor, either Steadfast Coffee or Barista Parlor (there are two locations!), and stroll down 4th Ave N to browse the boutiques.

While North Nashville is mainly residential, it's a bastion of African American history – the area is home to the historic Fisk University and played a central role in Nashville's Civil Rights movement during segregation. Today, exciting eateries and shops have opened in the Buchanan Arts District.

For lunch, it's time for Southern comfort food at locally beloved Monell's, a family-style food extravaganza – set aside plenty of time to get the full experience. Walk off all that home-cooked goodness by perusing some of the area's boutique shops, or popping over to the indie Marathon Village mall. Next up is craft-beer happy hour at Butchertown Hall or Bearded Iris Brewing. For dinner, you won't want for choice. Try inventive Southern specialties at City House or flavorful seasonal creations at Rolf & Daughters.

Green Hills and Belle Meade

Best for getting outside

Belle Meade is the neighborhood where you take time to smell the flowers, and we mean that literally. Flowers and greenery go wild in the sprawling Warner Parks, while the blooms come manicured at the neighborhood's impressive botanical garden. Green Hills is the city's busy chain-shopping district and home to the famed Bluebird Cafe.

Pick up a picnic, then head west to the city's premier parks: Percy Warner and Edwin Warner. Named for two brothers and businessmen, the parks sit side by side. Come here for hiking, mountain biking and nature talks. For lunch, try a classic meat-and-three at an old-school neighborhood diner. Afterwards, you'll find that nature and culture abound among the blooms and art at Cheekwood Botanical Garden & Museum of Art. Then spend your evening at Bluebird Cafe, one of the area's best-known music venues.

Next morning, drive to Belle Meade Plantation for equestrian history. Spend the afternoon shopping in Green Hills, being sure to stop at indie bookseller Parnassus Books.

If you have one more day, travel further west to Loveless Cafe for a classic Southern breakfast, followed by a scenic drive on the tree-lined Natchez Trace.

Midtown, Music Row and 12 South

Best for shopping and people watching

Busy Midtown is energized by Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities. But beyond the campuses, greenery and culture are best found at the city parks, with Centennial Park grabbing the spotlight. Music Row is an economic force, but there's not much there for the casual visitor. The most action is found in pocket-sized neighborhoods such as Hillsboro Village, 12th Ave S (known as 12South) and Edgehill Village, which bustle with boutiques, bakeries, coffee shops, indie eateries and craft beer and cocktail bars. Patios are great for people-watching and nightlife thrives along Division and Church Streets.

Breakfast options abound in Hillsboro Village, which is tucked between the universities. The neighborhood is home to the famous Pancake Pantry and prime patios for people-watching and sipping Bloody Marys. After eating, wander to the area's specialty shops. Next up is the West End and Centennial Park, a pleasant place for a stroll and home to the 1897 Parthenon, a replica of its Greek namesake. Join the line at Hattie B's off Broadway for fiery hot chicken.

Appreciate art and trees at Vanderbilt University – the campus doubles as an arboretum. Next, if you're a music lover, tour the Historic RCA Studio B on Music Row as part of a package deal offered by the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. From there, join revelers at the Division St bars. For a lower-key night, grab a pre-booked spot at Catbird Seat restaurant, Nashville's most coveted reservation.

The next day, sugar up at Five Daughters bakery in 12South then relax at one of Midtown's smaller parks. A tour of Belmont Mansion offers an informative look at 19th-century high-society life. Return to 12South to browse trendy boutiques, vintage shops and eclectic gift shops. Folks cluster near a pair of attractions: Reese Witherspoon's Draper James store and the I Believe in Nashville mural. For dinner, there's barbecue, Lebanese fare or Southern specialties. Nightclubs and bars on Church St in the West End keep things alternative – and will keep you partying late into the night.

Wedgewood-Houston and South Nashville

Best for families

Kids, history buffs and craft-cocktail enthusiasts will enjoy this part of Nashville. The zoo keeps children happy with critter encounters, a zipline and an awesome jungle gym. The neighborhood's glossy science center and planetarium is almost too much fun, with kids actively learning – or should we say banging on things? A plantation house and an 1860s fort delve into the city's Civil War past, while the craft-everything scene in Wedgewood-Houston will satisfy the taste buds of even the pickiest food and drink lovers.

One day is enough time to explore South Nashville. If you're traveling with kids, sit down for breakfast at Fenwick's 300, before driving to the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere. Here, exotic animals strut their stuff on the Savannah and Jungle Loops, while the meerkats show who's boss in Zoo Central. If you're still feeling energetic, spend the afternoon at the Adventure Science Center. On rainy days and holidays, you'll be joining heavy crowds. Kids love climbing the Adventure Tower and getting their hair mussed in the tornado machine. Visitors can double as astronauts in the Space Chase exhibit.

History buffs and Civil War enthusiasts, start your day with a fancy pastry and a cup of Crema coffee at Dozen Bakery in Wedgewood-Houston. This industrial neighborhood south of SoBro and I-40 is earning its hipster badge. Stretch your legs at Fort Negley, a hilltop fort built in the 1860s for use by federal forces. Next, tour Travellers Rest, a well-preserved house and former plantation dating from 1799. It sits beside I-65, south of the colorful bungalows of Berry Hill. For lunch, join the line at Gabby's Burgers, which serves some of the best burgers in the city. Add to your pre-owned collections with a visit to neighborhood antique stores, vintage shops and a used-record joint. Hit the Sutler for dinner and live music followed by comedy at long-running Zanie's.

Donelson and Music Valley

Best for convenience, shopping and a bit of Music City history

Most visitors to Nashville start their trip in Donelson at the Nashville International Airport. From here, rent a car or catch a taxi to your hotel in Music Valley. Entertainment and shopping are the big draws in this neighborhood, and if you've got kids you'll want to spend a few minutes considering all your options.

Golf and go-carts appeal to those who prefer an active vacation, while dinner shows bring the country music fans. The General Jackson Showboat offers live music on the Cumberland River. One night, be sure to catch the legendary Grand Ole Opry live radio show, performed at the Opry House February through October. The next day explore the sprawling Gaylord Opryland Resort, most of which is open to non-guests, stop by the Willie Nelson Museum and shop at Opry Mills Mall.

If you're staying a few days, spend one morning at Two Rivers Park, where the kids can skateboard in the skate park or splash around in the wave park. You can also rent bikes and pedal the greenway. History buffs should drive east to the Hermitage, which examines plantation life at the former home of 19th-century president Andrew Jackson.

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This article was originally published on March 11, 2021

Honky-tonks, hot chicken and music history: the 7 best neighborhoods in Nashville

With the mention of "New York" many often think of Times Square and the hustle and bustle of one of the world's busiest cities. Beyond the city life, New York State 's vast upstate countryside is home to The Adirondacks, expansive forests and its fair share of notable national parks.

From the Statue of Liberty to Niagara Falls, these are our top historic parks and monuments.

Get your history fix at Saratoga National Historical Park

The Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, NY holds activities and attractions for travelers during any season. The significance of the property dates back to the Battle of Saratoga. During a fall evening in the 1770s, American forces defeated the British army, forcing them to surrender and locking in crucial foreign support.

Although the park is known for its rich history (including the Schuyler House, Saratoga Monument and Victory Woods), it’s also a popular destination for cycling at any level.

Serious hikers and bikers can take part in the 100-mile challenge in the park. Anyone can join, all you need to do is just log your miles (walking, hiking or biking) in the park and once you hit that magic number you’ll earn “a special reward” and some serious bragging rights.

For some spectacular views of the Hudson River Valley, climb the 188 steps to the 155ft stone Saratoga Monument, on a clear day visitors can see for miles. It’s especially beautiful during autumn.

Hudson River Valley’s top experiences

Get a little misty at Niagara Falls State Park

We could talk about the beautifully landscaped state park (the country's first) which was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1880s or the picturesque hiking trails and kitschy trinkets you'll find in the city of Niagara Falls, but let's be real, it's all about that stunning natural wonder.

With 150,000 gallons of water per second plunging more than 1000ft, Niagara Falls is truly a sight to behold. Though some believe the Canadian side offers better views, the New York side is pretty darn impressive.

Hop on the all-electric Maid of the Mist ferry to get that up close and very wet view of the falls (don't worry, you'll get a poncho). The seasonal schedule changes from week to week so be sure to check the site before you head out.

For a somewhat drier option, visitors can head to the base of the Niagara gorge and take the elevator to the Observation Tower (or the steps to the Crow's Nest) for unobstructed panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding area.

And if you're curious to see what the Canadian side has to offer, it's an easy walk across the Rainbow Bridge – just be sure to bring your passport.

Pay your respects at the African Burial Ground National Monument

A sacred space in Lower Manhattan, the African Burial Ground National Monument is the largest known burial ground in North America for both free and enslaved Africans, according to the National Parks Service website. As the city developed and grew, the resting place was essentially forgotten until the remains of 419 Africans and 500 artifacts were found in 1991.

It's estimated that more than 15,000 Africans were laid to rest in these hallowed grounds from the 1690s to the 1790s. The re-discovery shed light on the little-known lives of Africans (both enslaved and free).

The African Burial Ground was designated a New York City and National Historic Landmark in 1993 and a National Historic Monument in 2006.

The visitor’s center is located on the first floor of the Ted Weiss Federal Building in Lower Manhattan. The center is home to five public pieces of artwork featuring work from Frank Bender, a forensic artist and other talented individuals; there’s also educational exhibits and a 20-minute video.

The outside memorial, known as “The Ancestral Chamber” is a granite structure with one entrance resembling the bow of a ship while the other entrance is a spiral platform that descends into a granite courtyard. There are African symbols etched into the structure.

The park is free to visit with ranger-led tours available.

Enjoy NYC views at Castle Clinton National Monument

Although the Castle Clinton National Monument was originally developed to keep people out, it ironically now invites millions of people in to visit. Located at the south end of Manhattan in Battery Park along the water, the monument represents where New York City began.

Originally built to protect New York Harbor from the British in 1812, Castle Garden (as it was known back then) has been used as an opera house, entertainment center, an immigrant processing center and the home of the New York City Aquarium (relocated to Coney Island in 1941).

Visitors can tour the circular red brick building with a park ranger year-round to learn about the history of the monument and its role in shaping New York City.

Sightseers can even hop on one of the ferries leaving from the area to go to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Get groovy at Governors Island National Monument

Governors Island, located less than a mile off the tip of southern Manhattan, has become one of the most popular spots for New York City events. From huge music concerts like the Governors Ball to Urban Farm tours, Governors Island has come a long way since being an outpost to protect New York City from naval attacks.

Relics of its military history can still be explored with self-guided tours of Castle Williams (erected in 1811) and Fort Jay (erected in 1796). Governors Island was a major command headquarters of the US Army from 1794 to 1996.

Today, visitors can rent bikes, wall climb, play mini-golf and even zipline high above the island. Public art like Cabin by Rachel Whiteread, Not For Nutten by Duke Riley and the Yankee Hanger by Mark Handforth are scattered throughout the island. Complete the evening by relaxing in the vibrant, fragrant Lavender Field on Governors Island.

Stroll the trails at the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site

Nearly two hours north of Manhattan in the small town of Hyde Park sits the beautiful home of American political figure and former First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt. Affectionately called Val-Kill, the stone cottage served as a meeting place for friends, media and visitors to New York. It became a National Historic Site in 1977.

Today, visitors can explore the beautiful trails and gardens dotted throughout the property. Use the pond to take reflective photos of the home from the bridge before taking a tour of Val-Kill Cottage and Stone Cottage on the grounds. The only way to visit is via a guided tour.

New York’s best road trips

Tour the Women’s Rights National Historical Park

The significance of the fight for civil rights needs no explanation. It paved the way for women’s rights and in Seneca Falls, New York you can visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park marking the legacy of the first Woman's Rights Convention in 1848. The park tells the story of the fight for women's equality and civil rights, and is significant when it comes to issues women still unfortunately face today.

Visitors can take ranger-led tours of the historical park, visit the Wesleyan Chapel, the site of the first Women’s Rights Convention held in 1848, Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s House – a prominent figure in the women’s rights movement and the M’Clintock House – where the Declaration of Sentiments was drafted.

But it’s the 100ft flowing bluestone water wall at Declaration Park where the text of the Declaration of Sentiments is etched alongside the signatures of the women in attendance that provides a scope to the importance of this site in American history.

Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty National Monument

Is there a more iconic site that represents New York than the Statue of Liberty? A symbol of hope and freedom, Liberty Enlightening the World has been welcoming millions since officially opening to the public in 1886.

Visit Lady Liberty on the 12 acres of Liberty Island in the New York Harbor. Reserve tickets online to avoid the massive lines – the more access you want, the more you’ll have to pay.  Guided ranger tours or self-guided audio tours are available. Don’t forget to check out the Statue of Liberty Museum where you’ll see Lady Liberty’s original torch and a life-sized replica of the statue’s face in its original bronze form.

New York’s best hiking trails

Get presidential at Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

In Oyster Bay, New York, the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site was home to Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, until he passed away in 1919. Nicknamed his “Summer White House,” the house is 83 acres of picturesque views and well-crafted buildings. Tour the home and the grounds before enjoying a picnic, taking in the scenery and the beautiful architecture in Sagamore Hill.

On a clear evening, visitors can enjoy the sunset from Theodore Roosevelt's piazza. Stroll around Eel Creek and Cold Spring Harbor, a trail that leads to amazing waterfront views and salt marshes. Hike through the woodsy trains and explore the forest in Sagamore Hill.

Escape to Fire Island National Seashore

Take in the crashing waves, sand dunes and nature views on a visit to Fire Island National Seashore in Ocean Beach. Throughout history, Fire Island has been a staple for plant life and wildlife, offering visitors to the shore peace and divine solitude. While there, take a walk to the lighthouse with your feet in the sand for a serene break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Tour the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park

The Harriet Tubman National Historic Park in Auburn, New York celebrates Harriet Tubman's astonishing legacy, forever enmeshed in American history. In her lifetime, Tubman saved nearly 300 people from a life of slavery. In the mid-1800s, Tubman led her family from Canada to Auburn, New York, where she continued to push for equal human rights until she passed away in 1913.

Visitors can pay their respects at her gravesite which is located a short distance from the church Tubman attended for 20 years – Thompson Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. There’s also a visitor center and the Tubman Home for the Aged. Though the interior of Tubman’s home is closed to visitors, you can stroll the grounds and check out the exterior of Tubman’s residence.

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As Canada's largest city, Toronto is a mix of fascinating neighborhoods and people, at once rich in culture and bursting with energy while also providing a truly global perspective. Its extraordinary depth in arts, business, cuisine, education, tech and sports make it one of the major cosmopolitan centers of the world. But that doesn't mean the city is easy to navigate.

Operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), Toronto's antiquated subway, streetcar and bus system is adequate at best. At worst, it seriously under-delivers services to a city that continues to expand more rapidly than its infrastructure is improving. On a good day, you'll get to where you need to go in the expected time frame. On a bad day – usually in midsummer or the throes of winter – you might wish you'd just stayed put.

So while the city offers a variety of public transportation options, it's perhaps best explored on foot. Focus on a few nearby sights and meander the neighborhoods between them, and you’ll avoid spending unnecessary time crisscrossing the city. You’ll see more, learn how the city works, and have the freedom to pop in and out of places along the way.

But if you’ve got to get to a destination further than your feet can take you, here are the best ways to get around Toronto.

Bicycle

Bikes are best for exploring the Waterfront and the Toronto Islands.

Bike-rental agencies, charging about $15/35 per hour/day, are found along the waterfront; Wheel Excitement is highly recommended.

For short rides, consider using Bike Share Toronto, a citywide bike-share program that rents bikes in 30-minute increments, either for a single-use ($3.25) or for unlimited periods using one- and three-day passes ($7/15). These can be easy on the wallet and are a minimal hassle. Just remember to dock your bike every 30 minutes; otherwise, you'll end up paying a premium.

City buses have easily loadable bike racks; they're first-come, first-served. Bikes are permitted on streetcars and subway trains during off-peak hours only (before 6:30am, between 10am and 3:30pm, and after 7pm weekdays and all weekend).

Boat

Ferries and water taxis are the only way to get to the Toronto Islands.

Toronto Islands Ferries services run from the terminal at the foot of Bay St to Centre Island, Hanlan's Point and Ward’s Island. Services are slashed to roughly hourly from October to March, only running to Ward’s Island. The journey to any of the islands takes only 15 minutes. During summer, lines can be long on weekends and holidays – show up early or book online to skip the purchase line.

Many water taxis also service the island from the ferry terminal; Tiki Taxi operates from a pier just off Spadina Ave. All charge about $10 per person (pay on board) and depart when full.

Bus

Buses are best for accessing areas outside Toronto's core; service from 6am (8am Sunday) until 1am daily.

Regular city buses run every 10 minutes from 6am (8am Sunday) until 1am daily. “Blue Night Network” buses provide service on major bus routes every 30 minutes from 1:30am to 5am daily (6am Saturday, 9am Sunday); reflective blue bands mark transit stops. Check the TTC's website for maps and timetables.

Buses pick up and drop off passengers at designated stops. The only exception is between 9pm and 5am when travelers can request to be dropped off between stops.

Car and motorcycle

Driving in Toronto, especially downtown, is not ideal. Traffic is horrendous amid ongoing construction. If you must drive, remember to stop for streetcars – behind the rear doors when the streetcar collects or offloads passengers – and for pedestrians at crosswalks when signals are flashing. Look out for cyclists in your blind spots.

Parking in Toronto is expensive, usually $3 to $4 per half-hour in a private lot; public lots and street parking range from $1.50 to $4 per hour, depending on the neighborhood. Private lots offer reduced-rate parking before 7am and after 6pm.

Hwy 407, running east to west from Markham to Mississauga, is an electronic toll road. It can be a wonderful alternative to the congested 401. Cameras record your license plate and the time and distance traveled. Expect a bill in the mail (Canada, US or Zanzibar – they'll find you).

Taxi

Taxis are abundant and easy to hail in downtown Toronto. Often, major hotels have a line of taxis outside, too. In outer neighborhoods, you'll have to call a cab. In either case, metered fares start at $4.25, plus $1.75 per kilometer (0.62 miles), depending on traffic. A tip of 15% to 20% is customary. Credit and debit cards are typically accepted.

Streetcar

Streetcars run extensive service throughout the city, though maddeningly slow during rush hour. They run 24 hours daily. Service slows to every 30 minutes from 1:30am to 5am. Streetcars are notoriously slow during rush hours, stopping frequently.

The main routes run east–west along St Clair Ave and College, Dundas, Queen and King Streets. North–south streetcars grind along Bathurst St and Spadina Ave.

Passenger pickup and drop-off are only at designated stops, sometimes in streetcar-only islands in the middle of a road.

To get off, wait until your stop is announced, then pull the yellow cord above the windows. Head towards the nearest door to step off.

The TTC website has maps and timetables.

Subway

Taking the subway is the fastest way to get across town.

The two main subway lines are the crosstown Green line (Bloor–Danforth) and the U-shaped Yellow line (Yonge–University–Spadina). The subway operates every two to six minutes from 6am (8am Sunday) to 1:30am daily. Check the TTC website for maps and timetables. Stations are generally safe and have Designated Waiting Areas (DWAs) monitored by security cameras.

Accessible travel

Toronto gets a passing grade for accessibility – it's not last in the class, but it's certainly no teacher’s pet. The good news is that all TTC buses are low-floor accessible and have tools for the vision and hearing impaired. Only half of the subway stations have elevators, though, and few streetcars are accessible to the mobility impaired: the 509 and 510 lines are the only routes that accommodate everyone. (New streetcars are being purchased and deployed, but gradually.) It’s a similar story for hotels; modern hotels tend to have elevators and wider doors and bathrooms, while smaller hotels, many built in refurbished Victorians, often do not.

Transport Passes

Tickets, tokens, day passes and PRESTO cards can all be used on the TTC ($3.20/free per adult/child).

Tokens are discounted ($3) if you buy at least three – a good idea if you plan to use public transportation for more than a day.

Day passes cost $13 and are good for unlimited travel until 5:30am the next day. On weekends, a one-day pass can be used by families or two adults.

Tickets, tokens, and passes can be purchased at subway collector booths, kiosks in subway stations, and streetcar stops. Select vendors sell them, too; check online for locations.

A PRESTO card, a smart card storing credit, costs $6; it's convenient if you'll be using the TTC a lot or going to/from Toronto Pearson International Airport.

You can transfer from one form of TTC transit to another for free using your transfer ticket or PRESTO card. You must be joining an intersecting route within two hours of having started your journey. Transfer tickets can be requested from streetcar and bus drivers and collected in subway stations from red machines after you pay your fare and go through the turnstile. Be sure to keep the transfer ticket. Transit police perform routine inspections and will issue fines if you fail to present proof of payment.

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Toronto can be tough to navigate - here are our tips for getting around town

Some of the world's best hiking trails—through deserts and snow-capped peaks—will soon be available to tourists when Chile reopens its borders in October, just in time for summer in the southern hemisphere. But traveling there won't be a straightforward process, regardless of your COVID-19 status.

From October 1, fully vaccinated travelers from around the world will be welcomed back to Chile, but they'll need to take some additional steps before traveling such as taking a COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours before boarding their flight, and undergoing a mandatory five-day self-isolation upon arrival at an address of their choice. For tourists that could be their hotel or Airbnb accommodation.

International visitors will also need to get their vaccination certificate validated by the Chilean health ministry before traveling to Chile, a process that could take about a month. Chile's public health secretary Paula Daza warned travelers not to book their trip until that step is completed to avoid the potential hassle of rescheduling flights.

We are happy! As of October 1st our borders reopen for international visitors. Chile is Back! Plan your trip following the rules and sanitary measures. Find out everything you need to know before traveling here https://t.co/FlML9y1VVk pic.twitter.com/1d3tKBwqfu
— Chile Travel (@chiletravel) September 16, 2021

In addition, travelers will need to take out health insurance with a minimum coverage of $30,000 USD for health benefits to cover any medical expenses should they contract COVID-19 on their trip. Once they're in Chile, a tourism spokesperson said "every person must comply with the traveler’s follow-up process, which is done over a period of 14 days and consists of daily self-reporting of health status, current location, and testing via email."

Chile has reported a successful immunization campaign with almost 87% of the eligible population fully vaccinated, according to the health ministry. But despite the decreasing infection rate, Chile doesn't plan to cut back on border precautions too quickly. For now, it remains under a State of Emergency through September 2021, and nightly curfews are still in place throughout the country.

When borders reopen, visitors will be permitted entry through dedicated airports in the capital Santiago, the beach resort of Iquique and Antofagasta, the gateway to the Atacama Desert. Unvaccinated visitors, including children, will not be permitted to travel to Chile.

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The first thing to know when planning a trip to Big Sur is that this is no typical beach destination. Despite having a few bucket list beaches to its credit, this 90-mile stretch of uber-photogenic California coastline is about far more than sun and sand. Many of Big Sur’s most beautiful beaches are little more than rocky coves, and sun may be scarcer than expected at certain times of year, thanks to Northern California’s notorious coastal fog.

Big Sur’s biggest gifts, like sunsets to sigh over and views that seem to take in the entire Pacific, vary so profoundly with the changing light that artists and photographers like Ansel Adams have been drawn to making their homes here to experience it year-round. It’s no wonder, then, that visitors tend to return again and again to explore this rugged outpost in all its seasonal glories.

Here’s a guide to getting the most out of one of California’s most addictive destinations at all times of year.

Splendid Color: Fall in Big Sur

Lack of rainfall turns California’s hills gold in the summertime. So Big Sur’s color palette is already burnished as fall begins, with the wine red of madrones, glowing yellow of sycamores, and rust of poison oaks layered over a wash of ochre. Contrast these with the gray-green of cypress and the emerald of pine and you have a study in contrasts that may be less showy than the aspens in the Sierras, but no less eye-catching.

The bigger reason to visit Big Sur in fall, however, is that in many ways it’s a continuation of summer - without the crowds. Northern California gets some of its best weather in September and October, when sunny days continue into evening, uninterrupted by the arrival of the coastal fog, which tends to vanish soon after Labor Day. With campgrounds less crowded, it’s possible to enjoy the still-long days and brilliant sunsets without having to wrap yourself in a sleeping bag as the gray mist rolls in.

Storm Season: Winter in Big Sur

Tides take center stage in the drama of Big Sur at all times of year, pulling out to reveal the underwater worlds of intertidal pools and thundering back in to crash, spout and foam against the rocks. Every winter, king tides raise the drama to new levels, reaching highs of at least seven feet, realigning beaches and strewing the sand with huge logs and other detritus. The phenomenon, which occurs near the winter and summer solstices when the sun and moon are aligned to create the strongest gravitational pull, also creates extremely low tides known as minus tides, which lure beachcombers out to explore rocks and reefs filled with sea life that’s normally well underwater.

Some of the best beaches for tidepooling include Pfeiffer and Garrapata State Park, while there’s nowhere better for high surf-watching than Partington Cove.

King tides aren’t the only act in town, though; storm-watching has also become a popular winter draw. After all, what could be cozier than curling up with a mug of hot chocolate in front of a plate-glass window at Ventana Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn, Treebones, or another Big Sur hideaway to watch the storm clouds roll in over the Pacific? The Point Sur Lighthouse offers a particularly spectacular storm-watching vantage point with the sea on three sides.

Wildflowers and Waterfalls: Spring in Big Sur

Wildflower season in Big Sur is a little like the California gold rush: people pour in from afar to seek their treasure, and everyone has a carefully guarded secret spot. No need for claim jumping, though; all of Big Sur’s best hikes feature fields and forests filled with blooms. Check with park rangers to find out peak bloom times in different locales.

Streams and rivers replenished with winter rainfall make for bigger waterfalls. Check out McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Pfeiffer Falls in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Whale watching is all part of a day’s leisure in Big Sur. Spring is peak season for spout spotting, as the California gray whales that have wintered in Baja California’s whale nurseries head north again, babies in tow. As author Richard Brautigan put it in his 1965 novel “A Confederate General From Big Sur”:

“This morning I saw a coyote walking through the sagebrush right at the very edge of the ocean – next stop China. The coyote was acting like he was in New Mexico or Wyoming, except that there were whales passing below. That’s what this country does for you. Come down to Big Sur and let your soul have some room to get outside its marrow.”

High Season: Summer in Big Sur

The summer road trip is a tradition in the United States and Hwy 1 through Big Sur is one of the country’s most scenic routes, so it’s no wonder that summer is high season along California’s central coast. That means you’ll elbow fellow photographers aside at key photo ops and struggle to find parking at popular beaches and parks, but it also means that all of Big Sur’s restaurants, bakeries, shops and galleries will be open and well-stocked and you’ll find a festive vibe along the way.

Summer is also when things get lively up and down the coast, and you’re likely to spot crowds gathered around a band, a ranger giving a talk, or a naturalist pointing out a nesting bird.

The Big Sur River Inn has live music every Sunday, along with barbecue straight from the smoker. Fernwood Big Sur also hosts regular live music concerts; check their calendar for dates and times.

The event schedule at the Henry Miller Memorial Library [Link to best things to do in Big Sur] fills up fast on weekends, with concerts, readings, and artsy happenings.

January-February

Between December and February, California gray whales make their southward migration to Baja, where the mothers will give birth. While they’re easier to see headed north because they hug the coast when traveling with their young, look for the telltale spouts off Point Sur and other vantage points.

Visit the elephant seal rookery at Piedras Blancas to see the mothers give birth and nurse their young.

Mycologists, otherwise known as mushroom foragers, descend on Big Sur in the wettest months to hunt for candy caps, slippery jacks and other colorfully named local fungi at the Big Sur Foragers Festival. This three-day event takes place at various venues and includes the “Fungus Face-Off,” in which local chefs vie to cook up rarefied delicacies, all in the name of charity to benefit the Big Sur Health Center.

And on late January and February weekends, rangers with binoculars await at Mile Marker 37, one mile north of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, to guide visitors in identifying migrating California gray whales and soaring condors at Vista Point.

March - April

Early spring is the height of whale watching season, with the migrating California gray whales coming in close to shore as mothers teach their newborns  how to forage and swim.

Sea otter pups are also born in February and March; look for playful family units in the harbor at Morro Bay.

The Point Sur Light Station opens for the season in March, with guided tours provided by volunteers on weekends.

May - June

The start of the high season is marked by the launch of the ranger-led campfire program at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Family-oriented talks and movie nights take place on weekend evenings in the campground amphitheater.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park hosts a Junior Ranger program of guided nature walks and talks tailored to various ages on Saturdays.

The Henry Miller Memorial Library hosts concerts and other programs on weekends throughout the summer and early fall. The organization’s website does not always list all musical programming; check Eventbrite for current concert listings.

Live music every Sunday at Big Sur River Inn starts in May.

In spring, Big Sur whale watching gets even more exciting, with endangered humpback whales - known for their antics - arriving to take the place of the more sedate California gray whales. Majestic great blue whales can also sometimes be seen off the Big Sur coast or outside Monterey Bay.

The Point Sur Light Station is open for guided tours provided by volunteers on weekends.

July - August

On summer weekends, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park features a campfire program of talks and movie nights hosted by rangers, ecologists and wildlife experts. All events take place in the campground amphitheater.

The Junior Ranger Program at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park features guided nature walks and talks. Events are tailored to different ages and take place on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Point Sur Light Station continues weekend guided tours.

Henry Miller Memorial Library hosts concerts and other programs on weekends throughout the summer and early fall. The organization’s website does not always list all musical programming; check Eventbrite for current concert listings at the library.

Big Sur River Inn continues its live music Sundays, and Fernwood Big Sur also hosts live bands on weekends.

September - October

Hipnic, a three-day festival of music and camping Organized by FolkYEAH, takes place at Fernwood Big Sur.

Live music Sundays continue through October at the Big Sur River Inn. Fernwood Big Sur also hosts live music on weekends.

November - December

Music shows continue through the winter at Henry Miller Memorial Library, with most being shuttle events hosted by FolkYEAH.

Elephant seal watching begins in earnest with the arrival of male seals at the Piedras Blancas rookery [Link to Things to Do in Big Sur] in November.

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Winter, spring, summer, fall: Big Sur is always in season

A visit to Big Sur is, in truth, an invitation to do nothing. Enjoying and exploring the area’s breath-stopping natural beauty will keep you plenty busy enough. That said, this California jewel boasts enough can’t-miss sights and must-do activities to pack any itinerary - especially when you think about the beaches and hikes you’ll almost certainly include. So go ahead, check out all these top things to do in Big Sur - just leave time for some peaceful contemplation, too.

Take a photo of the Bixby Bridge

You know you have to do it, if for no other reason than to show the folks at home you’ve stood on the spot made famous by countless movies, car commercials and TV shows, most recently “Big Little Lies.” Built in 1931, it soars 260ft above Bixby Creek, making it the highest single-span arch bridge in the world at the time and still one of the tallest. You can’t reach Big Sur without driving across the bridge, but the trick is finding a place to park to get your shot. The handful of pullouts fill up quickly and the traffic backups on Hwy 1 have made locals see red - and officials crack down. The solution is to park well before or after the bridge and walk until you can get the shot you want, which also gives you the chance to see the landscape from many angles.

Dine at Nepenthe

As much a destination as a restaurant, Nepenthe has to be seen to be fully understood. But once you arrive on the terrace, seemingly suspended directly over the Pacific, you’ll understand why this 72-year-old gathering place is so much more than an eatery and belongs on every Big Sur hit list. Of course, if you can get a dinner reservation, do so, and you’ll instantly appreciate Nepenthe’s role as a pioneer in the farm-to-table food movement, served up in every locally sourced bite. And if you can time your dinner to savor one of the area’s legendary sunsets, even better. But even if you just sit down for a Caprese baguette or a fresh fruit smoothie at low-key Cafe Kevah, or stop at the shop to browse local books and crafts, you’ll have a new appreciation for the role food and bohemian culture played in putting Big Sur on the cultural map.

Visit Henry Miller Memorial Library

This ramshackle and decidedly offbeat establishment, the former home of writer Henry Miller, trumpets its irreverence with the slogan “Where nothing happens.” But that’s not true. The library has evolved into a local art and event center which hosts readings, folk music performances, quirky fashion shows and other happenings. Visitors enter through a grove punctuated with junk art sculptures to find a funky bookstore and gallery surrounded by a sun-splashed deck and outdoor performance area. Censorship and rebellion are common themes of the works collected here, since Miller’s most famous work, “Tropic of Cancer,” was banned from the US for obscenity until 1964. After Miller’s death in 1980, the property was maintained by his friend and confidant Emil White, who turned it into a memorial and then deeded the institution to the Big Sur Land Trust, which maintains it as well as its limited budget allows.

Laugh at elephant seals

With their gigantic bulbous noses and enormous girth, elephant seals are the clowns of the ocean as they flop, lumber, wriggle and roll to maneuver across the sand. The Piedras Blancas reserve, 16 miles south of Ragged Point, considered the southern entrance to Big Sur, is the only place in the world to see the awkwardly charming seals year-round without restriction. At peak times, which occur in January, April and October, as many as 17,000 of the ungainly beasts crowd the rookery. Mating season is the most exciting of all, as the males - which can weigh up to 5000 pounds - challenge each other for dominance with bobbing, thrashing duels. Expectant moms start hauling out on the beach in late December and January, where they give birth and nurse their pups. February to April finds the beach full of pups, who’ve been left behind by their mothers to learn to swim and forage on their own. Docents are on hand to explain the seals’ habits and keep overenthusiastic visitors in check.

Ride horses on the beach

Settled by non-indigenous people in the early 1800s via several large rancho land grants, Big Sur was ranch country well into the 1970s, and that legacy remains important today. See what it was like to travel this rugged country by horseback - and make good on your dream of galloping down the beach - by signing up for a trail ride or guided horseback adventure. Outfitters like Monterey Bay Equestrian Center offer trail rides in the area, and one, Seahorse Equestrian, even brings the horses to you.

Eat scones in a fairy tale garden

No trip to Big Sur is complete without a stop at Big Sur Bakery, which made national headlines within a year of its founding for its crusty, wood-fired breads, flaky, butter-rich croissants and down-home jelly donuts. And 20 years later, it has earned near-legendary status. Behind the bakery, a fanciful botanical garden offers numerous sunny nooks where you can take your coffee, scone, and a good book and indulge in peace. Baked goods are only the beginning of what’s on offer, here, though. the hearty soups, wood-fired pizzas, and veggie-mushroom lasagna are all prepared with the same creativity and care as the pastries and breads. Lines out the door, locals and visitors side by side, are part of the experience; come early if you don’t want your favorites to sell out.

Appreciate local art in a gallery

It’s not just that COAST Big Sur is inside a converted water tank, it’s not just that its rooftop cafe serves the best coffee on the coast (Cat & Cloud, from Santa Cruz) and a date nut shake cookie to die for, and it’s not just that the art they showcase is the real deal, with serious cred; it’s all of those along with a true sense of investment in the local community. COAST’s pedigree is impeccable, having showcased the sleek, bronze animals of groundbreaking sculptor Loet Vanderveen since 1958. But there’s no resting on laurels here; the gallery is constantly adding new artists, as many as possible from the coastal community. And of course, after all that culture imbibing, you need one of chef Nick Balla’s farmer’s cheese tarts to revive.

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In Big Sur, you can do it all - or nothing

Cancún is all that it’s hyped up to be – spectacular white sand beaches, high-rise resorts and a world-renowned party scene that spills from the nightclubs to the beach clubs. It has some unexpected gems too: leafy downtown plazas, festivals and holiday celebrations almost monthly, even a nearby national park and Maya ruins.

Add to that blue skies and balmy weather, and it’s no wonder Cancún is such a popular destination. Prices can certainly be high, especially at popular times like Christmas and Spring Break, but deals (and quiet beach days) can be found if you’re willing to visit in the off-season. It may be hot and there may be some rain, but it’s glorious just the same.

Low season: May to June & September to November

Best time for travel deals

Hot weather and rain showers keep crowds at bay. Deal hunters will find major discounts on hotels, tours and even cover charges. The sun shines most days, but keep an eye on the forecast and heed hurricane warnings come autumn. Even if they don’t make landfall, stormy weather can mean heavy rain, powerful waves and a damper on nightlife too. November sees the return of beautiful weather and yet prices stay low.

High season: December to April

Best time for perfect weather and around-the-clock partying

Sunshine, warm weather and a legendary party scene brings plane-loads of beachgoers and partiers to Cancún, especially during Christmas, New Year and Spring Break. Book your accommodation far in advance and expect to pay a premium during the holidays. The temperate weather is optimal for sightseeing and snorkeling excursions, while strong and consistent winds on nearby Isla Blanca are ideal for kiteboarders.

Shoulder season: July to August

Best time for nightlife and whale sharks

The heat and humidity don’t stop partiers, especially Mexicans, from flocking to Cancún’s beaches. Short bursts of rain aren’t uncommon, but the sun always manages to shine. Balmy nights also mean perfect weather for bar hopping and dancing ‘til dawn. This is also the best time of year to snorkel with whale sharks and to watch sea turtle hatchlings make their first journey to the sea on Parque Nacional Isla Contoy. Hotel rates drop somewhat from high season, but not entirely.

January

Cancún is busy with travelers on an extended holiday and the last of the Christmas-related festivities. Peak-season prices continue through the middle of the month. Expect perfect beach weather – warm days and cool nights – with an occasional cloudy day.

Key events: Día de los Reyes Magos

February

The beautiful weather continues but Cancún slows down. The crowds dissipate until Carnaval when parades, wild costumes, street parties and live music take over downtown, including at Parque de las Palapas.

Key events: Carnaval

March

March brings spring-break madness as college kids descend on Cancún – expect epic beach parties, top-name musical acts, and packed nightclubs. Inception Fest, a month-long, nonstop party, adds fuel to the fire. Hotel rates peak and the weather gets warmer.

Key events: Spring Break, Inception Fest.

April

Spring breakers continue to arrive. Hotel rates stay high through Semana Santa (Holy Week) when Mexicans traditionally head to the beach. Cancún also celebrates its founding with free concerts and a parade along Avenida Tulum. The temperature continues to tick up.

Key events: Easter, Semana Santa, Fundación de Cancún.

May

The temperature breaks into the 90s and the humidity rises. It’s low season – tourism slows and hotel prices drop – but that doesn’t stop Cancún’s vibrant and often raucous events scene. Sea turtles begin to arrive on the shores of Isla Contoy for the nesting season.

Key events: Cancún Jumpoff, Wine and Food Festival Cancún, Challenge Cancún Triathlon,

June

Hurricane season officially begins. Expect hot, muggy days with occasional rain showers. Tourist numbers and hotel prices remain low though Pride Cancún brings a weekend of rainbow-themed beach parties, nightclub events and booze cruises.

Key events: Pride Cancún

July

July is a scorcher but marks the beginning of Mexican summer vacation. The city is busy again and hotel prices jump up. It’s the height of the whale shark season too, which runs from May to September; local dive shops offer snorkeling tours with these gentle giants near Isla Contoy. Festivals feature everything from beach cleanups to foam pits.

Key events: Festival de los Océanos, Destination X.

August

One of the hottest months of the year, August also sees an increase in rain. Mexican vacationers continue to arrive so prices hold steady. The first sea turtle hatchlings make their way to the ocean from their nests on Isla Contoy.

September

It's the height of the hurricane season, which means rainy days, few tourists and lots of deals. Mid-September brings Mexican Independence Day celebrations in Parque de las Palapas. Nearby, El Grito, the traditional cry of independence, can be heard at city hall.

Key events: Día de Independencia

October

Heavy rains continue in October but the sun typically makes a daily appearance. Cancún’s slowest period, some tour operators and restaurants close for the month. Major deals continue and the beaches are gloriously empty. Halloween is celebrated in the Zona Hotelera with alcohol-fueled costume parties. The sea turtle season winds down.

Key events: Cancún Jazz Festival, Halloween

November

November brings a welcome break from the heat and rain. It kicks off with Day of the Dead celebrations in downtown Cancún and theme parties in the Zona Hotelera. Music and cultural events round out the month’s festivities. Tourist numbers remain low, as do hotel prices.

Key events: Día de Muertos, Día de los Inocentes, Festival de Cultura del Caribe, Festival Internacional de Música de Cancún.

December

The hurricane season is long gone and except for occasional nortes (storms bringing northerly winds), it’s perfect beach weather. Deals can be had until mid-December, when travelers begin to arrive for the Christmas holiday season, filling hotels and driving prices sky high.

Key events: Día de Virgen de Guadalupe, Christmas, New Year's Eve, Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Cancún

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