Family Travel

The Best Things to do in Yosemite

There’s nothing in Yosemite but its raw beauty and outdoor activities for you to enjoy. Find out the top 10 places to check out.

There are many things to do when visiting Yosemite National Park. You can relax, test your endurance, take amazing photographs, and even interact with native wildlife.

But just like any other national park, there are a couple of sights and experiences you can’t afford to miss out on during your trip. Here are some of them.

#1 – Visit Yosemite Falls

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Checking out this amazing waterfall is one of the best things to do in Yosemite. Watch the water tumbling down a massive granite wall – it’s the centerpiece of the picturesque scenery in that rather large swath of Yosemite.

You can admire the waterfall from numerous angles. However, the two best viewing spots are at the start of the Yosemite Falls hike and the Swing Bridge picnic site.

If you want, you can also get to the base of the fall without having to go on a trek.

#2 – Have a Picnic at El Capitan

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This particular rock is one of the most popular Yosemite attractions.

El Capitan is a massive cliff located on the valley’s left side. When seen up close, it becomes clear that nothing in the area towers over it. You’ll also have access to a popular picnic area near El Capitan. Of course, the 3,000-foot cliff is also famous among professional rock climbers.

Here’s an interesting fact about El Capitan: In 2017, Alex Honnold climbed the ridge for the first time without ropes. That endeavor lasted just under four hours.

#3 – Go Camping

It’s an ideal way to experience the area and take on a bunch of hikes. In fact, camping is one of the top things to do in Yosemite.

You’ll find that the best campsites are the North, Upper, and Lower Pines. But if you’re an avid climber, Camp 4 is a much better choice since it has you close to some of the best climbing spots.

#4 – Check Out the Yosemite Museum

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Sure, most people go to Yosemite to gaze at all the natural beauty. That said, the region has a rich history despite being inhabited for thousands of years.

While at the park, visit the Yosemite Museum. It offers a variety of artifacts, demonstrations, and stories about the first people in the valley.

You can also see some of the native architecture behind the museum. There you’ll find bark-covered structures and some early Euro-American-type buildings.

The free entrance is an added incentive to check it out.

#5 – See Postcard-Worthy Sights from Tunnel View

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This is where you can see the most iconic view of Yosemite Valley. Tunnel View is a popular vista that offers the best views in the afternoon when the cliffs are bathed in sunlight.

From this point, you can see many of the park’s best features: Half Dome, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the lush valley.

#6 – Take Your Pick of Hikes

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Hiking is definitely among the top things to do in Yosemite. In fact, various trails featuring different elevations and difficulty levels await you. You can find some wheelchair-accessible routes, too.

Hardcore hikers often choose the multi-day trails that cover most of the park. But know that it’s hard to escape the crowds in some areas.

The hike to Half Dome is perhaps the most exciting due to its high elevation gain and cable section. But if you want to see amazing scenery, the hikes to Mirror Lakes and Vernal Fall Footbridge will keep you satisfied. However, these can get quickly crowded since they are family-friendly trails of little difficulty.

If you want the less traveled hikes, those around Tioga Road are your best bet. Also, don’t dismiss the Sentinel Dome hike if you want an awe-inspiring sunset trail.

These examples show just a tiny sample of the hundreds of routes available in Yosemite Park.

#7 – Visit Bridalveil Fall

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It’s an iconic Yosemite sight, one that you can see in all its glory from Tunnel View. Fortunately, reaching the Bridalveil Fall on foot is easy enough that you have no reason to miss it.

Located in the southern region of Yosemite Valley, the waterfall has a short trail that lends easy access to the base. You can get close enough to let the tumbling water spray you when it crashes on the bottom rocks.

#8 – Travel the Tioga Road

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A trip on the Tioga Road part of Highway 120 is one of the best things to do in Yosemite. It offers unique alpine scenery, a wide range of hikes, views of pristine lakes, and blooming open meadows.

However, this jaw-dropping location is only available during the summer. The high elevation of 9,945 feet is what prevents the road from staying open in the winter.

For the best views, you’ll get it at Olmsted Point.

#9 – Climbing at Half Dome

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There isn’t a professional climber who hasn’t heard of Yosemite’s Half Dome.

Taking the Mirror Lake hike is the easiest way to get up close to the massive rock formation. Meanwhile, Tunnel View also provides a glimpse of the wall in the distance. However, the best vantage point is the Glacier Point lookout.

You can hike Half Dome anytime you feel adventurous, although it’s preferable to do so when you have some experience and appropriate gear. What’s great is that the later stage of the hike brings you to the backside of the wall, which is a really unique sight.

#10 – Rent a Bike to Explore the Park

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When in Yosemite, you can stop at Curry Village and rent a bike to explore the park in a different way. It’s also one of the fun things to do with kids in Yosemite.

A paved service road that will lead you to Mirror Lake is an excellent choice for bikers. Know that you have other roads to choose from, with some more challenging than others.

In total, the park has around 12 miles of paved tracks.

Don’t Forget Your Yosemite Map

There’s so much to see and do when visiting Yosemite. That’s why it’s best to have an updated map with you so as to not get lost or waste time trying to get to a specific location.

If you’re into the great outdoors, then a trip to Yosemite might turn out to be your dream vacation.

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Adelaide

Awesome Adelaide (And the 11 Tourist Spots for Visitors)

Is Australia next on your to-visit list? We suggest taking a trip to Adelaide, the beautiful cosmopolitan city on the coast of Gulf St Vincent. Its cultural offering is spectacular, but that’s not all you can enjoy.

Adelaide is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Australia, and for a good reason. It’s an ideal mix of culture, fun, and nature. Not to mention that it’s a heaven for animal lovers, especially if you have time to visit nearby places.

Out of all the fantastic tourist spots in Adelaide, you’ll find in the following a list of 11 favorites. These are some of the attractions and places that you simply can’t afford to miss while in this sophisticated city.

1. Central Market

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The best place to learn about local food and drinks is the Adelaide Central Market. And if you’re a fan of always lively places, the market is a perfect launching pad for exploring Adelaide. It’s where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious sweets, and then some.

And if you stop by on a Friday night, you can also enjoy live music. There are also workshops for kids, cooking lessons, and other exciting activities, depending on the season.

2. Glenelg Beach

A metropolis with a beach that’s only 25 minutes away sounds like a dream. And this is exactly what you get in Adelaide.

Glenelg Beach, one of the most famous in all of Australia, is easily accessible by tram and will amaze you with its awesome sunset. It’s perfect for photographers and romantic souls who want to enjoy a cup of coffee or cocktail in one of the cozy cafés along the beach.

3. Haigh’s Chocolate Store

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Are you up for fine chocolates? If so, Haigh’s Chocolate Store is a logical stop on your route.

The factory is a family-owned business and is where the best South Australian sweets are born. The factory’s part of a host of Adelaide city tours, and it’s where you’ll learn all about the chocolate-making process.

Haigh’s selection includes more than 250 types of chocolates in all shapes and sizes imaginable. You might want to bring home at least one gift box as a souvenir.

4. North Terrace

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Adelaide’s famous boulevard’s filled with historical sites and cultural monuments. And if you’re not sure where to start, this may be perfect. You’ll first see the Parliament House, undoubtedly the city’s most impressive building.

And as you continue the walk, you can visit the State Library of South Australia, various museums and galleries, and the University of Adelaide campus.

You may have to spend a whole day to fully take in these examples of splendid architecture.

5. Art Gallery of South Australia

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As you walk down and explore North Terrace, make sure to stop by the Art Gallery of South Australia. Located in Adelaide’s primary cultural area, this Victorian building houses some superb art collections.

You’ll have a chance to see different kinds of artworks – from the colonial days to the contemporary. Whether you favor sculptures, paintings, or photography, you’ll find something to enjoy in this gallery.

6. The Adelaide Oval

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There’s something for sports fans as well among the many tourist places in Adelaide. Whether it’s the cricket or soccer season, the famous Adelaide Oval is always packed.

Like in many European cities, the stadium is also a huge tourist attraction. It’s located in the Riverbank Precinct and can hold thousands of spectators. More than 16 sports competitions have taken place at this historic stadium.

7. Barossa Valley

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As you know, Australia is one of the world’s major wine-producing countries. The Barossa Valley is the best-regarded wine region in South Australia and has a lot to offer all visitors.

Aside from the remarkable wines to try, you’ll find excellent food and even golf courses and cycling tracks. There are also a few galleries to visit for those who are into art.

If you have the time, you might want to consider spending a few days in this beautiful valley.

8. National Wine Centre

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Speaking of Australian wines, the National Wine Centre isn’t off the beaten path and certainly worth a visit.

It’s the place to attend all types of wine events, including tastings and interactive wine discovery journeys. And if you’d like to learn more about wines a bit more, you should know the Centre is also an enology research institute.

9. Adelaide Zoo

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One of the unavoidable tourist attractions in Adelaide, Australia is the Zoo. Close to 300 species of animals live here. You’ll catch a glimpse of everything, from local animals to the most exotic, including the southern hemisphere’s only couple of giant pandas.

A visit to the Adelaide Zoo is an excellent choice for families with kids. The tour can include interactive presentations and a petting zoo of farm animals. There’s also a unique vertical garden and a huge terrarium.

10. Botanic Garden

Off North Terrace Boulevard, the Adelaide Botanic Garden has a long history. It’s home to many medicinal plants, for starters. You’ll also find rainforest plants, Amazon water lilies, the oldest fig trees in Australia, and more.

The best thing about the Adelaide Botanic Garden? It’s open all year round and it doesn’t cost a dime! The guided tour is also free.

11. Cleland Wildlife Park

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Who knew that a wildlife park could be only 20 minutes away from the city center? While in Adelaide, don’t forget to stop by the Cleland Conservation Park.

At the park, you can get your daily dose of kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and koalas. Not only can you see them up close, but you can also feed and cuddle them.

This park is among the most visited tourist places near Adelaide. It’s fantastic for photographers, as well as kids who want a souvenir photo of them cuddling a koala.

Family Travel

Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah

You shouldn’t postpone your trip to Savannah. See a city packed with American history, great scenery, and tons of attractions.

Visiting one of the oldest cities in the south should be on anyone’s list of vacation ideas – whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or nature enthusiast. That’s because Savannah has a bit of everything for everyone.

The city is a piece of living history, but with all the modern amenities and premium facilities.

Check out some of the top tours, attractions, and tourist spots in Savannah:

1. Relax in Forsyth Park

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This park is part of the Savannah Historic District and is recognized for its impressive scenery. And every Saturday, you can sample the local goods at the farmer’s market.

The 300-acre park offers lush landscapes, flowers, green trees, a fountain, and enough room for live concerts. It’s so picturesque that you can find pictures taken in this park all over the internet. But nothing compares to experiencing it in person.

2. A Ride Down the Historic Route

The trolley tours in Savannah are legendary. One ride covers 22 squares and lets you see some of the most important landmarks in the historic district. It’s a great choice if you’re not thinking of an extended stay but want to see as much of the city as you can.

Each tour runs about every 20 minutes, so it’s impossible to miss one. Even better, it’s a hop-on-hop-off tour. That means you can step off the ride and spend time at any hotspot on the line and hop on another trolley to continue your tour anytime.

3. Walk the Wormsloe Path

Visiting the Wormsloe Historic Site is another good idea. Before reaching the estate, you can travel on a path covered by suspended trees. It’s quite the artistic marvel in a natural site and simply breathtaking in the summer.

You can see Savanna’s oldest building that’s still standing at the site. Tours are available throughout the year and the locals even host memorable events there.

4. Visit the Museums

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If you’re a fan of old ships, the Sea Maritime Museum is the place to visit. The museum has a rich collection of ship memorabilia dating back to the 1700s. What’s interesting about this is that the museum opened only in 1966.

The Telfair Museum of Art is another top tourist attraction. This museum features 19^th century and 20^th century art collections of both European and American origins. It also has an impressive sculpture gallery. Even the building, the 200-year-old Neoclassical Regency mansion, teems with a rich history.

Located in the Tricentennial Park is the Georgia State Railroad Museum, another tourist hotspot.

Having multiple museums that are rich with history and unique collections on display, this city will meet all your need for history.

5. Admire the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

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Originally built in the 1870s, the cathedral saw many restorations over the years. The first rebuild was in 1899 and restoration work carried on up until the 1990s.

Its interior features marble floors, railings, and an altar weighing 9,000lbs that came all the way from Italy. The Renaissance murals and the Great Rose Window are breathtaking and any art lover would want to see them up close.

6. Learn More About the Girl Scouts

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The Girl Scouts of the USA has its origins in Savannah at the house of Juliette Gordon Low. Being an iconic organization, the founder’s home became one of the first national historic landmarks of the city.

It’s been restored to its original look in the 1880s and you can even see most of the original family furniture and memorabilia. Many of the items on display, including photographs, personal jewelry, and writings, are more personal in nature

The house isn’t a destination just for Girl Scout troops, but also for tourists of all ages. And the tour offers great insight into the Girl Scouts movement from its inception to modern times.

7. A Tour of Unfiltered History

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One of the most common things to do in Savannah is to visit historic landmarks just because there are so many of them. The Owens-Thomas House is a great example of a National Historic Landmark you’ll want to check out.

It commemorates the lives of 14 slaves that lived there, and it’s done in great detail. The tour helps one to understand the complex relationships of that time by putting things in perspective.

You can also visit the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. It’s in Franklin Square, inside the oldest African Baptist Church in Savannah. The exhibit features written stories and photographs, as well as lots of information that is not widely publicized.

8. Visit Georgia’s Oldest Still Standing Fort

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Old Fort Jackson is a brick fort and one of the few still standing in America. It got its name in 1812, during the war, and saw enough action during the Civil War. The Coastal Heritage Society manages the fort and sees to the continuous display of military history.

And, if you’re lucky, you might see some old cannon firing demonstrations. Talk about getting a bang for your buck while vacationing in Savannah.

9. Outdoor Activities in the Fort McAllister State Historic Park

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Even if you’re not a Civil War buff or offended by anything related to the Confederacy, this park is still great to visit. Along with cannons and military memorabilia, the park features acres of natural beauty.

It’s a wonderful recreational spot right near the Great Ogeechee River south of Savannah. You can enjoy various activities, like hiking, fishing, and going on picnics, and you can even camp in certain spots.

10. Experience the Local Cuisine in Unique Locations

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If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in Savannah, GA, you might want to try the Olde Pink House Restaurant. It’s a great restaurant and a city landmark.

You can eat inside the 1700s mansion and sample the fine dining menu. It’s so popular with both tourists and locals that it also has accommodations nearby to cater to guests who need them.

The Oldest City Is Still Bustling with Life

Savanna, GA, may be an old town, but it’s teeming with life. It has so many attractions for you to see for yourself – from old mansions and history-packed museums to fine dining and lush parks. Savannah really has it all.

That’s why it’s worth more than your average weekend trip.

Family Travel

The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers

The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers

Go beyond sports and Mediterranean cuisine. Madrid is a top destination for art and history enthusiasts, too.

Spain’s capital city is elegant, expansive, and very busy 24/7. It also holds some of the largest collections of European art and weaponry. And there are many museums, historic landmarks, and other repositories that you can visit. When you’re tired of taking in Spanish history, the scenic parks await.

Check out some of the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid.

1. Tour the Prado Museum

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What is Madrid known for? It’s many museums, one of the most famous being the Prado Museum. It opened in 1819 and now features over 2,000 paintings and hundreds of sculptures. And the exhibits have Spanish, Italian, and Flemish artist signatures.

It’s also one of the busiest museums in all of Spain. So, make sure you get your ticket early in the day. But if you’re on a tight budget, you can try to get in for free during the last two hours of the schedule.

It’s truly one of the essential Madrid sights for art and history lovers.

2. Visit the Royal Palace and Gardens

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Sometimes referred to as the Spanish Versailles, it’s a royal court with impressive statues and lavish gardens. You can even take your own photos of the statues of Spanish kings and visit the apartments of King Charles the Third.

It has breathtaking interiors and features just about everything you could think of – from marble flooring and silk wall hangings to chandeliers and famous paintings. The palace walls feature works made by the likes of Goya, Rubens, Caravaggio, and other masterful artists.

The Royal Armory is also a nice stop for history buffs. The 3,000 exhibits tell the story of the Spanish military. And some of these pieces date back to the 16^th century.

3. Stand in the Puerta del Sol

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You can’t go to Madrid without standing in the heart of the city. It’s a big town square that acts as a central hub of transportation and occupies a unique position. That’s in reference to the sun.

But this is not just a place with gorgeous architecture and geography.

It’s also the site of many historic events. The most important being the site of where Spain made a stand against Napoleon in 1808. And it’s also the site of the Second Republic proclamation of 1931.

Aside from being rich in history, it’s known to be lively both day and night. It’s also a great place to grab something to eat or drink. And if you’re interested in the local nightlife, in and around the square are some of the hottest locales in the city.

4. Grab Your Dose of Contemporary Art

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The Contemporary Art Museum is a must-see if you’re looking for something more modern. It opened in 1986, making it one of the newer, and yet highly popular, museums in the world.

It’s where you can also see the works of Picasso and Salvador Dali, among many other famous artists. The building itself has three glass towers around the elevators and a beautiful garden in its courtyard that has a variety of quirky sculptures.

The exhibit occupies over nine acres. It will take you a while to take it all in, but there are also a cafeteria and a restaurant for when you need a break.

5. Visit Spain’s Egyptian Monument

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The Temple of Debod is a gift from Egypt to Spain back in 1968. It’s an ancient temple located in La Montana Park and is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

The temple has original decorations, peaceful gardens surrounding it, and impressive shrines. A visit here’s considered as one of the most unique things to do in Madrid.

6. Tour the Archaeological Museum

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Visiting the Archaeological Museum is a must if you want to learn more about Spain’s history. In fact, it has an impressive collection of artifacts that predate the Romans.

Here you’ll find pieces over 2,500 years old that still look amazing and even almost new. The restoration and preservation work on this collection is most impressive and, as an art lover or history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss it.

7. Step Into the Oasis of Buen Retiro Park

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This park offers 296 acres of lush scenery away from the busy streets. While the park is still part of the town, it acts as an oasis for those seeking peace and quiet and clean air.

It’s also one of the most elegant public parks you’ll see, as the park has many fountains and reflecting pools. From time to time, you can even catch an art exhibit right here. Like any other park, you can also relax in shade here or drink a cup of coffee at an open-air café.

And for nighttime travelers, the park’s historic observatory is the place to be on a clear night.

8. Experience Street Performances at the Plaza Mayor

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Madrid is a hotspot for art lovers from around the world, but it doesn’t just offer museum exhibits. There are also some lively spots that are a must-visit.

The Plaza Mayor is a large open square that’s thriving with life. It’s also convenient, as there are many cafes where you can sit down and watch street performers. It’s also a great place to visit when on holiday if you want to sample holiday markets.

The place definitely has a touristy vibe to it. Yet it has an authentic ambiance that offers a unique experience. It even comes with a guided walking tour where you can learn about the history of the square from 1617 to the present.

9. Visit the Old Royal Hunting Grounds

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What was once the Spanish hunting grounds for the royal family is now a great park to spend time with the kids. When you’re done taking in the scenery, architecture, and works of art, you’ll want to stop here for a while.

For starters, you can go on a walk and have a picnic. But you can also go kayaking on the lake or hop on one of the dozens of theme park rides. Casa de Campo is also home to the Zoo Aquarium where you’ll find a dolphin show, giant pandas, and many other unique displays.

Visit One of the Best Places to Live in the World

Madrid has a lot to offer for tourists of all ages. While many may see it as a destination for sports fans, perhaps even more people visit for its many art, history, and architectural gems.

This city is teeming with life and gorgeous exhibits and it’s worth a longer stay.