Nowhere else rivals Africa for its untamed wildlife, vast landscapes, and timeless traditions – get ready to fall in love.
The Timeless Tale of the Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains trace their origins back to ancient times when colossal continental collisions formed a mountain chain that now ranks among the oldest on Earth. Some of the rocks here began as seabed sediment over a billion years ago before being thrust upward when the African tectonic plate collided with North America.
Human history in this region runs deep as well. Indigenous communities have inhabited the Smokies since prehistoric times. Archaeological discoveries include 10,000-year-old hunting tools and ceramic artifacts dating to around 700 BCE. When European settlers arrived in the 17th century, they encountered the Cherokee, who had long-established settlements along the river valleys. The Smokies were central to their homeland until they were displaced by force along the Trail of Tears. In the early 20th century, logging operations nearly devastated the forest. Fortunately, efforts by local advocates in the 1920s led to the establishment of the national park in 1934.
Today, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. Its popularity stems from its accessibility to major cities like Knoxville, Atlanta, and Washington, DC, and from its thoughtful design, which balances scenic roadways and hiking trails. An added benefit is that the park is free to enter—no permits or passes are required.
If you’re considering a visit, you’ll find everything you need here—from travel advice to hiking recommendations and camping details. Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, the Smokies always have something new to offer.
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains
Part of the Appalachian range, the Smokies are among the planet’s most ancient mountains, originally formed over 200 million years ago. Though once as tall as the Himalayas, centuries of erosion have sculpted them into the rounded ridgelines seen today. Hiking to the top of a 6000-foot peak offers not just sweeping views, but also a moment to reflect on this profound geological history.
With over 800 miles of trails, the park caters to every level of hiker—from quick waterfall walks to multiday treks. Here are some highlights:
Clingmans Dome
This is the highest point in the park, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from a modern observation tower. A steep but short paved trail leads to the top, while longer trails—including the famed Appalachian Trail—intersect nearby. In winter, the closed access road ensures solitude for those who make the journey on foot.
The Appalachian Trail
Stretching nearly 2200 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail runs 71 miles through the Smokies. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas, dense spruce-fir forests, and historic fire towers. Even a short walk along this legendary path offers a memorable experience.
Mt LeConte
The third-highest peak in the park, Mt LeConte, is a favorite for dedicated hikers. Multiple trails ascend the mountain, offering encounters with waterfalls, wooden footbridges, and panoramic viewpoints. At the summit sits LeConte Lodge—accessible only by foot—where rustic cabins offer a unique overnight stay.
Alum Cave Bluffs
A popular trail that draws crowds, Alum Cave Bluffs delivers a rich hiking experience. The trail features narrow stone staircases, scenic rock formations like Arch Rock, and eventually leads to a massive rock overhang known as the Bluffs. The route continues to Mt LeConte for those seeking a longer challenge.
Ramsey Cascades
This strenuous hike winds through an untouched forest filled with towering tulip trees. After a steep and rugged path, hikers are rewarded with a 100-foot waterfall—the tallest in the park. Note: Climbing the slippery falls is dangerous and not permitted.
Camping Options
Camping in the Smokies offers a range of experiences. LeConte Lodge is the park’s only on-mountain accommodation and is accessible only by hiking. Most overnight visitors stay in gateway towns like Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, with the latter offering more budget-friendly options.
The park has nine developed campgrounds, all with restrooms and basic facilities but no showers or hookups. Campsites include fire rings and picnic tables. Some are reservable while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Cades Cove and Smokemont are open year-round; others are seasonal.
Backcountry camping is available for a nominal fee (up to five nights) and requires a permit. Reservations can be made online, and rangers can provide additional guidance at visitor centers.
Exploring by Car
When national parks were first developed, building roads was controversial. Critics debated whether roads enabled more people to enjoy nature or encroached on wild spaces. In the Smokies, the roads have become part of the experience. With 384 miles of roadway, scenic drives offer a relaxing way to enjoy the landscape.
Newfound Gap Road
The park’s main paved route stretches 33 miles between Gatlinburg, TN, and Cherokee, NC. The drive features pull-offs, picnic spots, and trailheads. It’s an ideal introduction to the park’s beauty.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This short but scenic route follows a fast-moving stream past waterfalls, forests, and historical buildings. Several popular hikes, including the trail to Grotto Falls, begin here.
Foothills Parkway
A newly extended 33-mile parkway provides dramatic vistas, thanks to decades of planning and recent infrastructure investments.
Seasonal Activities and Natural Wonders
The Great Smoky Mountains are stunning year-round. Spring bursts forth with wildflowers, summer brings vibrant greenery, fall paints the mountains in gold and crimson, and winter blankets the landscape in snow and quiet.
Firefly Viewing
In late spring to early summer, Elkmont lights up with synchronous fireflies flashing in unison. Entry requires a shuttle and a lottery-based parking pass.
Cataloochee Wildlife Spotting
This eastern valley is a prime location for spotting elk, wild turkeys, and even black bears. It also contains preserved buildings from early settlers.
Rafting on the Pigeon River
The merging streams of the Smokies feed into the Pigeon River, offering both calm and adventurous rafting options depending on the section you choose.
History at Cades Cove
This scenic valley is rich in both natural beauty and pioneer history. You can explore 19th-century buildings, hike to waterfalls, and watch for wildlife—all in one visit.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round. Summer and fall are peak seasons due to blooming wildflowers and colorful foliage. Spring brings fewer crowds and fresh blooms, while winter is perfect for solitude and snow-draped scenery.
Spring starts in April with sunny days and cold nights. May offers ideal wildflower viewing. June and July are the busiest months, with events like the firefly displays and Gatlinburg’s parade. October is peak foliage season, with November bringing thinner crowds and falling leaves.
Winter months bring peace, icy waterfalls, and cozy cabin stays, especially around Christmas in nearby towns.
Getting There and Staying Safe
The closest airports include McGhee Tyson (Knoxville), Asheville Regional, and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson. A rental car is necessary, as there is no public transit to the park.
The park is free to enter. Visitor centers are located inside and outside the park at major access points. Safety regulations—especially regarding bears—must be followed. Keep food and scented items in your vehicle or designated lockers, and ensure dogs are leashed and stay off hiking trails.
The Park’s Formation and Preservation Efforts
European contact began in 1540 when Hernando de Soto’s expedition camped near the Oconaluftee River. The Cherokee had long established seasonal camps and permanent villages in areas like Cades Cove and Oconaluftee.
William Bartram, a Quaker naturalist, documented the region in 1775. The Mingus family settled in the Oconaluftee Valley in 1798, with other settlers arriving in the following decades. After the 1819 Treaty of Calhoun, the Cherokee were forced out, and industrial logging eventually took hold.
By the early 1900s, massive deforestation raised concerns. In 1923, Ann Davis and others began campaigning for a national park. After legislative approval in 1926, fundraising and land acquisitions—many of them contested—took years.
In 1930, the first land transfer was completed, and in 1934, the park was formally established. In 1940, President Roosevelt dedicated it at Newfound Gap.
During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps built much of the park’s infrastructure. Their stone shelters, bridges, and fire towers remain a testament to their lasting work.
Glacier National Park Overview
Rivaling Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park showcases jagged peaks shaped by dramatic geological thrust faults and ancient glaciers. Yet its mountains and forests are only part of the story. The park is deeply tied to Indigenous heritage, features one of the National Park system’s most scenic roads, historic lodges built in early 20th-century ‘parkitecture’ style, and 740 miles of hiking trails roamed by moose and grizzly bears.
Glacier’s Glaciers
Despite its name, Glacier National Park has just 26 named glaciers today—down from 35 in 1966. By comparison, North Cascades National Park has over 300 glaciers. Current climate trends suggest the park may be glacier-free by 2030. A prime spot to view one is Jackson Glacier Overlook, near Gunsight Pass trailhead, where telescopes offer views of the park’s fifth-largest glacier near the 10,052-foot Mt Jackson.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
This 50-mile scenic route was designed to offer access to Glacier’s interior without hiking. Now a national historic landmark, the road crosses Logan Pass (6,646 feet) and is lined with waterfalls, trailheads, and striking mountain views. Its full opening marks the beginning of the summer season.
Logan Pass
At the park’s highest drivable point, Logan Pass offers panoramic views from above the tree line, atop the Continental Divide. Popular hikes here include the Hidden Lake Overlook and the Highline Trail. Parking can be difficult during peak hours.
Two Medicine Valley
Once the most accessible part of the park before Going-to-the-Sun Road was built, this area remains a deeply sacred space for Indigenous tribes. The landscape features a strong bear population and the haunting presence of Triple Divide Peak—where water can flow to the Pacific, Atlantic, or Arctic Oceans.
Top Hiking Trails
Highline Trail
A Glacier favorite, this 7.6-mile route hugs the Garden Wall and ends at Granite Park Chalet. It’s rich with wildflowers and offers incredible views with only 800 feet of elevation gain.
Iceberg Lake Trail
One of the most loved hikes in the park, this 9-mile out-and-back route takes you to a glacier-fed lake where icebergs float in summer. The ascent is gentle and filled with scenic meadows.
Sun Point to Virginia Falls
Easily accessed by the park shuttle, this 7-mile round-trip hike passes St Mary and Virginia Falls. A good half-day option with relatively easy terrain.
Piegan Pass
Starting from Siyeh Bend on Going-to-the-Sun Road, this 12.8-mile trail cuts through Preston Park and ends in Many Glacier. It’s a point-to-point hike with transportation connections at either end.
Dawson-Pitamakan Loop
A challenging 18.8-mile route over two Continental Divide passes, this trail is known for epic views and abundant wildlife. It can be done in a day or stretched over multiple days with backcountry camping.
Where to Stay
Lodges
Iconic early 20th-century lodges built in a mix of Swiss chalet and Wild West styles offer a rustic, scenic retreat.
Glacier Park Lodge: Built in 1914, it features giant Douglas fir beams, manicured grounds, and a classic rocking chair porch. No TV or AC.
Lake McDonald Lodge: Located lakeside, with cozy rooms and renovated cabins. Built in 1913 with beautiful common spaces and ranger programs.
Many Glacier Hotel: With the most dramatic setting in the park, this 1915 lodge offers updated rooms and stunning lake and mountain views.
Historic Chalets
Granite Park Chalet: Accessible only by trail, this rustic lodge has 12 rooms, shared facilities, and a kitchen. Reservations are essential.
Sperry Chalet: Rebuilt after a 2017 fire, this backcountry lodge is a 6.5-mile hike from Lake McDonald and offers private rooms and meals.
Belton Chalet: Opened in 1910, Glacier’s first hotel has 25 elegant rooms, a taproom, spa, and rustic family cabins.
Camping
Apgar Campground: The park’s largest, close to West Glacier and Lake McDonald.
Avalanche Creek: Lush and close to popular trailheads, but busy.
Many Glacier Campground: Popular for its access to top trails; half of the sites are reservable.
Bowman Lake Campground: Quiet, spacious, and remote. The road can be rough after rain.
Sprague Creek: Small, tents-only, and located lakeside off Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Indigenous History
Glacier has long been home to the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai peoples. Sacred sites such as Chief Mountain and Two Medicine remain important. In 1855, the tribes signed treaties that led to the loss of much of their land, and by 1910, part of their former territory had become Glacier National Park. Today, the Blackfeet Reservation borders the park’s eastern edge and continues to hold cultural and ceremonial ties to the land.
Getting There
By Air: Glacier Park International Airport (Kalispell) offers year-round service to major U.S. hubs and seasonal routes from cities like Atlanta and Chicago.
By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder stops at West Glacier, East Glacier Park, and Browning. Shuttle connections are available.
By Shuttle: The park operates a free shuttle from Apgar to St Mary, stopping at key trailheads. Guided Red Bus Tours are also available.
By Car: Be prepared for winding roads, limited parking, and peak-season traffic—especially on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but most services operate from mid-May to October. In winter, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing. Going-to-the-Sun Road typically opens fully by early July. Always check the park’s website for the latest updates on conditions and accessibility.
Visitor Centers & Accessibility
Apgar Visitor Center (near West Glacier) offers free Wi-Fi and access to the park shuttle.
Logan Pass Visitor Center features exhibits and trail access in a stunning alpine setting.
Glacier provides large-print brochures, braille handouts, audio-described videos, and accessible trails, campgrounds, and shuttle buses. Service animals are permitted, and all lodges have wheelchair-accessible rooms. Contact the park ahead of time for specific accommodation needs.
Yosemite means “killer” in the Indigenous Miwok language, and the name fits the park’s impressive and awe-inspiring landscape. Everywhere in Yosemite you find towering granite domes, sheer cliffs, rushing rivers, reflective lakes, mesmerizing waterfalls, and peaceful meadows — all linked by spectacular viewpoints offering panoramic scenes.
As the third national park established in the US, Yosemite perfectly captures the spirit of conservation and recreation. It is famous for iconic natural landmarks such as Half Dome, El Capitan, Mariposa Grove, and Yosemite Falls, as well as the summer retreats of Tuolumne Meadows and Glacier Point. It’s no surprise that over 5 million visitors arrive annually to experience its grandeur.
Conservationist John Muir fell deeply in love with Yosemite, writing eloquently about the Sierra Nevada’s beauty, helping to secure its protection. The park has also become a mecca for rock climbers drawn to its challenging routes and sheer faces. Yosemite even gave rise to slacklining, a new outdoor sport invented by climbers experimenting between climbs.
Activities in Yosemite
With over 800 miles of trails ranging from easy half-mile strolls to multi-day backpacking journeys, Yosemite offers options for every type of hiker. There are 13 campgrounds and many backcountry sites. Camp 4 and Tuolumne Meadows are popular summer hubs for climbers. Equipment rentals are available at the Yosemite Mountaineering School.
Other activities include horseback riding, swimming, rafting, kayaking, skiing, fishing, golf, and hang gliding. Evening entertainment ranges from events at Yosemite Theater to campfire programs, children’s photo walks, twilight strolls, night-sky viewing, ranger talks, and slide shows. The Evergreen Lodge tavern hosts live music some weekends.
Best Views of Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley is the park’s centerpiece — a 7-mile-long meadow bisected by the Merced River and framed by some of the world’s most majestic granite formations. Waterfalls tumble dramatically throughout the valley, complementing the natural beauty that contrasts with the busy Yosemite Village.
The top viewpoint is Tunnel View, located at the east end of Wawona Tunnel on Highway 41. From here, you can see El Capitan on the left, Bridalveil Fall on the right, the green valley floor, and Half Dome prominently in the center. Often confused with Inspiration Point (which requires a steep hike), Tunnel View is easily accessible by car.
Valley View is another excellent spot, located a mile west of El Capitan Meadow along Northside Drive. It offers a bottom-up perspective of the valley and is perfect for a final glance at Bridalveil Fall, Cathedral Rocks, and El Capitan. You can even dip your toes in the Merced River here.
Near Yosemite Falls is Yosemite Valley Lodge, a modern complex with motel-style rooms, restaurants including Base Camp Eatery and Starbucks, shops, a bar, bike rentals, a pool, and a tour desk. The amphitheater hosts evening programs, and the pool is open to the public.
The Yosemite Valley shuttle bus and YARTS buses stop here, as do guided tram tours, ski shuttles, and hiker buses.
Climbing El Capitan
El Capitan rises nearly 3,600 feet from base to summit and is one of the world’s largest granite monoliths. Its sheer face attracts experienced climbers worldwide. The famous “Nose” route is a challenge many attempt. At night, with headlights dimmed, the rock face is dotted with climbers’ headlamps. Voices can sometimes be heard echoing through the valley.
The meadow opposite El Capitan offers a good vantage point to watch climbers with binoculars. Haul bags are easier to spot than climbers because they are colorful and move more. From mid-May to mid-October, rangers run an ‘Ask a Climber’ program with telescopes set up on El Capitan Bridge from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
Half Dome
Standing at 8,842 feet, nearly a mile above Yosemite Valley’s floor, Half Dome is the park’s spiritual symbol and one of the most famous granite domes worldwide.
Its “half dome” shape is actually an illusion. From the valley floor, it looks sliced in half, but from Glacier or Washburn Points, it appears as a thin ridge with a steep backside. Half Dome presents many different profiles throughout the park, from the “big toe” shape seen from Panorama Trail to the powerful form from Mirror Lake.
Glacier Point
A 16-mile road leads to Glacier Point, considered by many the park’s best viewpoint. At 3,200 feet above the valley floor and 7,214 feet elevation, it offers stunning views at nearly eye level with Half Dome.
Directly below Glacier Point lies Half Dome Village (formerly Camp Curry), which hosts the valley’s second-largest cluster of restaurants, shops, and lodging. Founded in 1899 by David and Jennie Curry, the camp grew rapidly and was famous for the Firefall, a nightly event that drew many tourists.
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is one of the world’s most dramatic waterfalls and a favorite of naturalist John Muir, who wrote extensively about its changing sounds, movement, and seasonal transformations. The falls are visible from many places in the valley and never fail to impress.
Spring snowmelt fills Yosemite Creek, creating a spectacular display. You may also see “frazil ice,” a unique watery slush flowing beneath the bridges. On bright full moon nights in May and June, a rare lunar rainbow or “moonbow” may appear.
In winter, frozen spray forms massive ice or snow cones at the base. To reach the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, get off at shuttle stop 6 or park near Yosemite Valley Lodge and take an easy quarter-mile walk.
In midsummer, when snowmelt fades, the falls may reduce to a trickle or dry up entirely.
Bridalveil Fall
At the southwest end of Yosemite Valley, Bridalveil Fall plunges 620 feet. Known as Pohono, or “Spirit of the Puffing Wind,” to the Ahwahneechee people, winds often sway the falling water, sometimes pushing it upward.
The fall usually runs year-round but weakens in midsummer. Visitors should bring rain gear or expect to get wet when the flow is heavy.
To visit, take the seasonal El Capitan shuttle or park at the large lot where Wawona Road meets Southside Drive. A paved quarter-mile path leads to the base but includes a short uphill section and may be rough for wheelchairs. Avoid climbing on slippery rocks.
The Yosemite Conservancy plans to improve parking and trail access here.
Tuolumne Meadows
About 55 miles from Yosemite Valley, at 8,600 feet, Tuolumne Meadows is the Sierra Nevada’s largest subalpine meadow. It offers a cool, lush contrast to the valley with wildflower-covered fields, clear lakes, and rugged granite peaks. It is a paradise for hikers and climbers, especially in July and August.
Tuolumne Meadows Grill serves burgers, hot dogs, and salads, with picnic tables outside. The nearby store stocks supplies for picnics.
Tuolumne Meadows lies along Tioga Road west of the Tioga Pass Entrance. The Tuolumne Meadows Hikers’ Bus runs once daily each way and can be used for one-way hikes. A free shuttle also travels between Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, Olmsted Point, and Tenaya Lake.
The Majestic Yosemite Hotel
Nearly as iconic as Half Dome, the Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly Ahwahnee Hotel) has welcomed visitors since 1927. Visitors don’t have to be guests to enjoy its Great Lounge, which features leaded glass, sculpted tiles, Native American rugs, and Turkish kilims.
Relax on plush couches, admire views through ten floor-to-ceiling windows, visit the Solarium, or snap a photo at the walk-in fireplace. The Tudor Room upstairs offers great views of the lounge below.
Designed by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood, who also created Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Canyon lodges, its lobby inspired the Overlook Hotel in Stanley Kubrick’s film The Shining.
Yosemite Ski Area
California’s ski industry began here at Badger Pass (now Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area), the state’s first alpine resort. The area became popular after Highway 140 was completed in 1926 and the hotel opened in 1927.
When Wawona Tunnel opened in 1933, skiers flocked to Badger Pass. In 1935, a crude “upski” lift was installed, making it the first alpine ski resort in California.
During winter, a free shuttle runs between Yosemite Valley and the ski area. Wilderness permits can be self-registered at the A-frame building, which houses first aid and ski patrol, staffed daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
History of Yosemite National Park
The Ahwahneechee people, a group of Miwok and Paiute, lived in Yosemite for around 4,000 years before explorers arrived in 1833. About 3,000 people lived in 22 villages in the valley. During the Gold Rush, conflicts with miners escalated until the military Mariposa Battalion forced Chief Tenaya and his tribe to surrender in 1851.
Tales of Yosemite’s waterfalls and granite spread widely after the battalion’s expedition. In 1855, entrepreneur James Hutchings led the first tourist party to the valley. His published accounts sparked increased visitation, leading to roads and inns being built.
Concerned conservationists petitioned Congress, and in 1864 President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant, which gave Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove to California as a state park. Influenced by John Muir, Congress created Yosemite National Park in 1890, helping establish the national park system in 1916.
Tickets and Tours
Admission is $35 per car, $30 per motorcycle, and $20 per person on foot or bike.
Guided tours include:
Yosemite Conservancy: Multiday courses, custom trips, and seminars.
Sierra Club: Paid trips and free outings by local chapters.
Discover Yosemite Tours: Year-round bus tours from nearby towns.
Aramark/Yosemite Hospitality: Bus and tram tours, including wheelchair-accessible Valley Floor tours and trips to Glacier Point or Tuolumne Meadows.
Tenaya Lodge: Full-day park tours with luxury buses.
Green Tortoise: Backpacker-friendly camping trips from San Francisco.
Incredible Adventures: Biodiesel van tours from San Francisco, including camping.
For more information, visit tour desks at Yosemite Valley Lodge, Half Dome Village, or Yosemite Village, or check www.travelyosemite.com.
When Frederick Law Olmsted, the architect of New York’s Central Park, first saw the 1,013 acres of sand dunes on the edge of San Francisco in 1865, he was understandably doubtful. The area was a windswept, unappealing stretch buffeted by harsh Pacific winds. Olmsted declined the opportunity to design what would have been a park larger than Central Park before even completing his first masterpiece.
A century later, Olmsted might have smiled at what Golden Gate Park had become — a vibrant space filled with bonsai, buffalo, redwoods, Frisbees, free music, and free spirits. The park was the heart of the 1960s Summer of Love and remains a cherished part of San Francisco’s identity. You could spend a week wandering its paths and still only scratch the surface of its history and attractions.
Walk Through History in Golden Gate Park
The park was the idea of San Francisco politicians, including Mayor Frank McCoppin, who wanted to convert former Mexican land on the city’s outskirts into a profitable expansion. This move also aimed to resolve legal disputes caused by squatters claiming the “Outside Lands.”
Despite Olmsted’s skepticism that such a park could succeed on the site, civil engineer William Hammond Hall and master gardener John McLaren embraced a vision focused on nature rather than commercial developments like casinos and racetracks. Their work began before Yellowstone and other national parks were preserved, making Golden Gate Park a pioneering effort in urban green space.
What to Do in Golden Gate Park
The park’s “wild” and “labyrinthine” character is largely man-made, with every inch transformed from sand dunes. Some of its earliest features highlight this effort. The Conservatory of Flowers, opened in 1879, houses rare tropical plants from the Americas and aquatic species from the Amazon. Stow Lake, created in 1893, features Strawberry Hill, a family favorite for over a century.
The Japanese Tea Garden, established during the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States. It hosts plants, birds, and fish thriving far from their native Japan.
After the 1906 earthquake, thousands of refugees camped in parks including Golden Gate Park. Some temporary army-built shacks remain in use today.
As the city rebuilt, new institutions joined the park: Kezar Stadium (former Oakland Raiders home), California Academy of Sciences, and the de Young Museum. The park’s iconic windmills bookend the 1906 earthquake era, and the Dahlia and Shakespeare Gardens were added in the 1920s.
The WPA and the Summer of Love
During the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration added features such as the San Francisco Botanical Garden, an archery field, Anglers Lodge, and the Model Yacht Club. They restored the 1926 Horseshoe Pits and built the Beach Chalet, adorned with murals depicting the park’s history.
In 1930, the Hoover Grove of giant sequoias was planted to honor World War I casualties, offering visitors a chance to see towering trees without leaving the city.
The park evolved culturally, with the 1967 Human Be-In at Hippie Hill near Haight-Ashbury ushering in the Summer of Love. Thousands gathered for free concerts and communal gatherings fueled by countercultural ideals.
Golden Gate Park Today
One of the newest permanent additions is the National AIDS Memorial Grove, dedicated in 1991 to those lost to the epidemic that deeply affected San Francisco’s queer community.
The park continues to evolve, hosting events such as the Bay to Breakers race, the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass and Outside Lands music festivals, and Christmas light displays.
In 2020, the park celebrated its 150th anniversary with art installations like Charles Gadeken’s Entwined light show and the SkyStar Wheel ferris wheel, set to remain through March 2025. That year also saw protests leading to the removal of some historic statues.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the park hosted community events like the Sunday Roller Disco Party, featuring live DJs and free skating. Summer visitors can find one of 12 pianos hidden around the Botanical Garden as part of the Flower Piano event, which includes free lessons and community sing-alongs.
Getting to Golden Gate Park
Spanning over three miles long and half a mile wide, Golden Gate Park has many entrances. The Panhandle entrance via Fell Street is popular, while 9th Avenue off Lincoln leads to key attractions.
Main park roads include JFK Drive, Transverse Drive, Chain of Lakes Drive, and 25th Avenue/Crossover Drive/19th Avenue/Park Presidio. Some roads are part of the city’s Slow Streets program to encourage walking and biking during the pandemic. Check the park website for current road closures and updates.
Biking, walking, and skating are popular ways to explore. Several bus and trolley lines serve entrances around the park’s perimeter. The park is open 24/7, with restrooms located throughout.
Vehicle Parking in Golden Gate Park
There are more than 4,700 street parking spaces throughout the park. Accessible parking is available at McLaren Lodge, the Music Concourse (behind the Bandshell), MLK Drive & Music Concourse, and on JFK/Transverse Drive.
The Music Concourse garage, with 800 spaces, charges $33 per day and serves the SkyStar Wheel, de Young Museum, several gardens, and the California Academy of Sciences. It is accessible via Fulton Street at 10th Avenue and open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Golden Gate Park Shuttle
A free shuttle runs within the park from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every 15 to 20 minutes on Saturdays, Sundays, and city holidays.
One of the world’s most renowned green spaces, Central Park spans 843 acres of rolling meadows, boulder-studded outcroppings, elm-lined walkways, manicured European-style gardens, a lake, and a reservoir. The park also features an outdoor theater, a memorial to John Lennon, an idyllic waterside eatery, and a famous Alice in Wonderland statue.
Highlights include the 15-acre Sheep Meadow, where thousands lounge and play on warm days; Central Park Zoo; and the forest-like paths of the Ramble, popular with birdwatchers. In warmer months, free outdoor concerts take place on the Great Lawn, and the annual Shakespeare in the Park productions at the open-air Delacorte Theater draw large audiences. Other recommended spots include the Shakespeare Garden between 79th and 80th Streets, known for its lush plantings and skyline views.
The History of Central Park
Like the city’s subway system, Central Park is a great class equalizer, just as its creators envisioned. Built in the 1860s and 1870s by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux on what was then marshy land at Manhattan’s northern edge, the park was designed as a leisure space open to all New Yorkers regardless of background.
Central Park is the fifth largest park in New York City, smaller than parks like Pelham Bay and Van Cortlandt in the Bronx, the Staten Island Greenbelt, and Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens. Even so, its 843 acres are significant in dense Manhattan. Much of the land was acquired through eminent domain.
Ironically, the area included Seneca Village, a settlement of immigrants and free Black residents who were displaced to make way for the park. Olmsted and Vaux’s task was to transform a raw, swampy site into a natural American landscape, inspired in part by Birkenhead Park in England, the first publicly funded park there.
The result was a sprawling green space distinct from the city, featuring separated paths for pedestrians and carriages, and designed to provide a pastoral oasis from the urban bustle. The construction involved years of labor and considerable expense, made slower by the Civil War.
The Legacy of Central Park
Olmsted’s vision, realized here, launched his career and influenced generations of landscape architects across the United States. Central Park is also a popular filming location and cultural icon, appearing in movies such as Hair, When Harry Met Sally, Enchanted, and The Muppets Take Manhattan.
The park’s surroundings include notable architecture, from the Dakota Building — home to John Lennon and Lauren Bacall — to the modern Central Park Tower, which soars 1,550 feet above the park.
Things to Do in Central Park
Central Park remains one of New York’s most popular destinations, busy with joggers, skaters, musicians, and tourists on warm days. It is quieter during weekday afternoons, especially in areas like the Harlem Meer and North Meadow above 72nd Street.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing and camping without leaving Manhattan. The Victorian Bow Bridge, spanning Central Park Lake, connects Cherry Hill and the Ramble. Nearby, the Bethesda Fountain and the Loeb Boathouse, where rowboats are available for rent, are beloved landmarks.
Dining options include the iconic Tavern on the Green. Originally a sheep paddock designed by Vaux in 1870, it was converted into a restaurant in 1934. Despite a brief closure, it reopened in 2014 and remains a city classic.
In winter, visitors enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and skating at Wollman Rink (southeast corner) and Lasker Rink (north). The Central Park Conservancy offers guided tours focused on art, wildlife, and kid-friendly spots. Running routes are plentiful for those wanting to explore the park more quickly.
Getting to Central Park
Central Park is accessible via numerous subway lines, including the N, R, Q (to 57th Street & 7th Avenue), 1, 2, 3, A, B, C, and D trains (stopping at Columbus Circle, 72nd, 96th, and 110th Streets), and B and C trains along the park’s west side.
Several bus routes run along or near the park, including the M10 (Central Park West), M20 (from Penn Station), and Q32 (from Grand Central).
There is free and metered street parking surrounding the park, but it’s important to check signage. Paid parking lots and garages offer options for short- or long-term parking.
Central Park Accessibility
Though designed before the Americans with Disabilities Act, Central Park offers an accessibility map to help visitors plan for wheelchair, cane, rollator, or other mobility aid use. The map indicates inclines, stairs, and accessible facilities like restrooms and trails.
The Robert Bendheim Playground, redesigned in 1996, is fully accessible, featuring ramps, a wheelchair-accessible water feature, an elevated sandbox, and play structures with auditory elements for children who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
MGM Grand Las Vegas
Owned by the iconic Hollywood studio, MGM Grand embraces the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown with theatrical touches like flashing LED screens and computerized fountains spotlighting the massive 45-foot, 100,000-pound bronze lion statue at its entrance.
Casino & Entertainment
Inside the sprawling casino, visitors can enjoy table-side massages, free Texas hold’em lessons in the poker room, and top entertainment such as the famed Hakkasan nightclub—a former epicenter of electronic dance music—and Cirque du Soleil’s martial-arts-inspired show Kà.
Grand Pool Complex
The outdoor pool area is a major attraction, featuring four swimming pools, several whirlpools, and an 8,000-foot-long lazy river—the longest in Las Vegas—winding through waterfalls and lush foliage. It’s a lively scene with families, sunbathers, students, and partygoers. The summer hotspot Wet Republic pool club offers a stylish, party atmosphere.
Grand Spa
This 29,000-square-foot spa combines Asian-inspired decor with signature treatments such as the two-hour “Dreaming Ritual,” drawing on Australian Aboriginal healing and massage techniques. Spa access varies—hotel guests enjoy day passes daily, while non-guests may book Monday through Thursday.
MGM Grand Garden Arena
The 17,000-seat arena hosts major concerts by stars like U2, Cher, and Miley Cyrus, as well as championship boxing and fight events.
Dining Options
The MGM Grand boasts several celebrity-chef restaurants and vibrant nightlife venues, including:
Joël Robuchon
Fine dining in a Parisian mansion-style setting. Sophisticated seasonal tasting menus by the “Chef of the Century.” Reservations required.
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
A more casual, tapas-style counter bar experience with masterfully prepared small plates. Booking advised.
Morimoto
Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s Japanese restaurant offers a unique dining experience blending traditional and contemporary flavors. Advance booking recommended.
Heritage Steak
Tom Colicchio’s contemporary steakhouse features open-flame-grilled meats and innovative dishes like ash-roasted bone marrow and sweet corn ice cream. Reservations essential.
Pub 1842
Casual gastropub by chef Michael Mina with creative comfort food and craft cocktails. Happy hour 3pm–6pm daily.
Hakkasan
Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine in a dramatic, futuristic setting. Creative cocktails complement the menu.
Crush
Mediterranean-inspired casual dining with wood-fired pizzas, antipasti, and options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
Hecho en Vegas
Mexican cantina near the monorail station serving authentic dishes like handmade tamales and Sonoran hot dogs.
Craftsteak
Another Tom Colicchio steakhouse with a broad menu of grass-fed steaks and seafood, accompanied by extensive bourbon and scotch selections.
Bars and Nightclubs
Hakkasan Nightclub
Upscale Asian-themed club featuring international EDM DJs like Tiësto and Steve Aoki. Dress code strictly enforced.
Wet Republic
Vegas’s premier daytime pool party with top DJs, stylish crowds, and vibrant cocktails. VIP cabanas and daybeds available by reservation.
Accommodations
MGM Grand is one of the world’s largest hotels, with options ranging from standard rooms to ultra-luxurious suites.
Skylofts
Exclusive, architect-designed loft-style penthouses with floor-to-ceiling windows, spa tubs, gourmet kitchens, and 24-hour butler and concierge service. Ideal for families or romantic getaways, complete with private airport transfer.
Signature Suites
These suites often feature full balconies, kitchenettes, plush furnishings, and all the amenities expected at MGM Grand.
Overview
Alcatraz, famously known as “The Rock,” has served various roles—from a military prison to a maximum-security federal penitentiary, and later as a focal point for Native American activism. With over 1.4 million visitors annually, its chilling history and stunning views of San Francisco continue to fascinate.
Historical Highlights
Early Years: Discovered in 1775 by Spanish lieutenant Juan Manuel de Ayala and named “Isle of the Pelicans,” Alcatraz became the first U.S. West Coast fort in 1859 and a military prison holding deserters and Native American prisoners, including Hopi who resisted government assimilation policies.
Federal Penitentiary (1934–1963): Known for its harsh conditions, Alcatraz housed notorious criminals like Al “Scarface” Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and Robert Stroud (“The Birdman”). Despite being deemed escape-proof, the infamous 1962 escape by the Anglin brothers and Frank Morris remains a mystery. The prison closed in 1963 due to high upkeep costs.
The American Indian Movement Occupation (1969–1971)
Native activists, under the Indians of All Tribes (IOAT), occupied the island to claim sovereignty and protest federal Indian policies, invoking the Treaty of Fort Laramie.
The occupation gained national attention through media broadcasts and support from celebrities but ended after federal intervention and cutoffs of essential services.
The island was transferred to the National Park Service and became a symbol of Indigenous resistance, commemorated annually with an “Un-Thanksgiving” ceremony.
Visiting Alcatraz Today
Open daily except on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day. Advance tickets are highly recommended due to popularity.
Access via ferry from Piers 31-33 in San Francisco; ticket prices range from $25 (children) to $41 (adults), with family packages and special tours available.
The site offers accessible features, including braille and ASL materials, assistive listening devices, tactile markers, and an accessible tram for visitors with mobility challenges.
For tickets and information, visit alcatrazcruises.com or call (415) 981-ROCK.
Overview
Rising atop Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, the US Capitol is the symbolic and functional center of American democracy. Laid by President George Washington in 1793, it houses the 435-member House of Representatives and 100 senators, where laws shaping the nation are debated and passed.
Note: Capitol tours are currently suspended due to COVID-19.
History
Designed by Dr. William Thornton in a neoclassical style, the Capitol sits on Jenkins’ Hill (now Capitol Hill) at the eastern end of the National Mall.
Construction involved enslaved laborers who quarried stone and carved columns.
Opened in 1800, the building originally housed the Supreme Court and Library of Congress. These institutions later moved to separate buildings as the Capitol campus expanded.
The building was burned by the British in 1814 during the War of 1812 and was the site of the January 6, 2021, insurrection. Despite these challenges, it remains a proud symbol of American governance.
Highlights of a Capitol Tour
Capitol Visitor Center: The starting point underground, featuring Emancipation Hall museum exhibits, restaurants, and gift shops.
Old Supreme Court Chamber: Historic courtroom famous for the 1857 Dred Scott case.
Crypt: Intended resting place of George and Martha Washington, now housing statues of the original 13 colonies.
Rotunda: The grand heart of the Capitol where important ceremonies occur. The dome’s fresco, Apotheosis of Washington, glorifies the first president surrounded by allegorical figures. The Rotunda also honors distinguished Americans lying in state.
National Statuary Hall: A former House chamber turned gallery for two statues from each state, showcasing revered citizens in a stunning Greek Revival setting.
US Capitol Grounds: Landscaped by Frederick Law Olmsted, featuring the Summerhouse and excellent views of the dome and the statue of Freedom atop it.
Visitor Information
Passes: Free but required for tours. Obtain passes online, through congressional offices, or at the Visitor Center (limited availability). Separate passes needed for viewing House and Senate sessions.
Visitor Center Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Saturday (closed major holidays).
Tours: Offered Monday through Saturday, beginning at the Visitor Center.
Location: East Front Plaza, between Constitution and Independence Avenues.
Getting There: Metro access via Union Station (Red Line) and Capitol South/Federal Center SW (Orange, Silver, Blue Lines). DC Circulator bus serves the National Mall.
Fun Fact
When the white light atop the Capitol dome is lit at night, it signals that Congress is in session.
