USA
A Guide to Iowa’s Maquoketa Caves State Park
Iowa isn’t exactly known for its natural beauty, and the stereotype of endless cornfields as far as the eye can see is largely true. But the state is also home to the stunning Maquoketa Caves State Park which is easily among the finest parks in the Midwest. Its main highlight is the massive Dancehall Cave
Exploring More Mounds of Illinois
The state of Illinois is home to one of the most significant and impressive archaeological sites in all of the United States: Cahokia, known for its large earthen pyramid. But like its neighboring Midwestern states, Illinois is also home to dozens of smaller mounds, some of which are 2000 years old. During a recent road
Cuyahoga Valley: Hiking The Ledges Trail & More
Situated between the urban centers of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley isn’t your typical National Park. It’s divided up into various sections with modern towns and residences scattered between them. While it lacks the sense of immersion of other National Parks, nature lovers who find themselves in the area shouldn’t miss hiking the Ledges trail.
Garnet Ghost Town: Montana’s Best-Preserved Abandoned Town
Nearly everyone enjoys a good ghost town, though exploring abandoned places often comes with potential risks. But not Montana’s Garnet Ghost Town, a former mining town located near the city of Missoula. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Garnet could be thought of as a large outdoor museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into
Glacier National Park: The Ultimate Planning Guide
Montana’s Glacier National Park attracts about three million visitors each year, making it the 11th most-visited park in the country. But due to weather conditions, a large majority of visitors come between July and September, making the peak summer season rather chaotic. Given the circumstances, you’ll have to do a lot of meticulous planning to
Top 5 Things to Do in Glacier National Park
Montana’s Glacier National Park is the quintessential hiker’s park, while it’s also home to a thrilling scenic drive. But with so much to see and do, planning for your first trip to the park can be overwhelming. Below we’ll be taking a look at the top things to do in Glacier National Park that those
Hiking Glacier’s Highline Trail: Everything You Need to Know
Many who’ve done it call the Highline Trail one of Glacier National Park’s quintessential hikes. As we’ll cover below, the most challenging part of the hike is figuring out transport to the trailhead. But once you begin, it’s a relatively flat journey that takes you through some of the park’s most stunning scenery. In the
A Guide to Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road
Constructed over the course of nine years and completed in the 1930s, Going-to-the-Sun Road is the only way to get from one end of Glacier National Park to the other (without leaving park boundaries, at least). But more than just a way to get from point A to point B, the drive offers stunning views of
Visiting Waterton Lakes National Park: Glacier’s Sister Park
Waterton Lakes is located in southern Alberta, just across the border from Glacier National Park. The two parks, in fact, make up the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. But those basing themselves at Glacier may be wondering: Is visiting Waterton Lakes National Park for a day worth it? If you only have two or three days in
Grinnell Glacier: Glacier National Park’s Top Hike
Many visitors to Glacier National Park regard the Grinnell Glacier Trail as their favorite hike in the park (though the Highline Trail is another top contender). But what makes it so special? Though strenuous and somewhat crowded, the hike’s scenery constantly evolves. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning views of turquoise lakes, encounter waterfalls, and
Many Glacier: Hiking to Iceberg Lake & Red Rock Falls
Glacier National Park is comprised of several different districts, but lots of visitors call Many Glacier their favorite. The area offers some of the park’s best hiking experiences, while it’s also home to pristine lakes and abundant wildlife. In this guide, we’ll be taking a look at two of Many Glacier’s top hikes: Iceberg Lake
Yellowstone: The Ultimate Packing List
Known for its hydrothermal features and wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of the largest parks in the country. Most people visit in summer, but at 7,733 feet (2,357 m) above sea level, temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day. Furthermore, this being bear country, you’ll need to take special precautions to ensure a smooth
The Perfect 4-Day Yellowstone Itinerary
At over two million acres, Yellowstone requires several days to fully appreciate. While it would probably take weeks to see 100% of the park, three or four days is enough to see the main highlights. In the following Yellowstone itinerary, we’ll be detailing how to experience the park over four days as efficiently (and as
Top 5 Things to Do in Yellowstone
Yellowstone will forever be known as the United States’ (and the world’s) first-ever National Park. Designated in 1872, it remains one of the country’s largest and most unique parks to this day. But it can be hard to keep track of all there is to do and see when planning a trip. This guide to
North Yellowstone: Mammoth Hot Springs & Bunsen Peak
Just about every corner of Yellowstone National Park is home to something special. And the northern part of the park is no exception, as it’s here that you’ll find the stunning travertine pools of Mammoth Hot Springs. Though largely formed over the course of thousands of years, the area remains in a constant state of
Exploring Yellowstone’s Colorful Norris Geyser Basin
Located in the western part of Yellowstone, Norris Geyser Basin is home to hundreds of hydrothermal features like geysers, mud pots and fumaroles. While it may not be as well-known as Upper Geyser Basin (known for Old Faithful) or Middle Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic), it’s easily one of the most interesting hydrothermal areas of the park.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: The Top Viewpoints & Hikes
At over two million acres, Yellowstone has a bit of everything – geysers, wildlife, a large lake, and a scenic 20-mile canyon, the latter of which we’ll be focusing on in this guide. A visit to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone should be considered essential during your trip to the park. But how should
Hayden Valley: Yellowstone’s Top Wildlife Watching Spot
Aside from its geysers, if there’s one thing Yellowstone is known for, it’s wildlife. While you’ll inevitably have a few chance encounters while exploring the park, where should one go in hopes of seeing as many animals as possible? The answer is Hayden Valley, situated just south of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Hayden
Yellowstone Lake: West Thumb Geyser Basin, Boat Tours & More
For those with several days in Yellowstone, exploring Yellowstone Lake is one of the top things to do in the park. The lake covers 136 square miles, and with 110 miles (180 km) of shoreline, there’s plenty to do and see nearby. Highlights include West Thumb Geyser Basin, a few interesting hikes, and a Yellowstone
Southwest Yellowstone: Upper Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic & More
Established on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the world’s very first National Park. While the US is now home to over 60 such parks, visiting Yellowstone remains a unique experience thanks to its hydrothermal features and abundant wildlife. While the park is massive, there’s no better place to start than at Old Faithful in
A Guide to Grand Teton: How to Spend a Weekend in The Park
As its name suggests, Grand Teton National Park is most known for its stunning 40-mile-long Teton Range. From all throughout the park, one can enjoy unobstructed views of the mountains, whether it’s from the other side of a lake, valley or historical structure. The following Grand Teton guide will take you to all the best vantage
Hiking Cascade Canyon: Everything You Need to Know
As its name suggests, the highlight of Grand Teton National Park is viewing the Teton mountain range from a variety of angles. But when it comes to hiking, the park either has numerous short excursions that could barely be considered hikes, or long strenuous treks that take you deep into the backcountry. Cascade Canyon, however,
Exploring Craters of The Moon National Monument & Preserve
Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is an overlooked gem. But while the park does indeed contain many craters, it doesn’t quite resemble the moon. Instead of dust, the park is largely covered in hard volcanic rock. It’s situated on the Snake River Plain, one of the largest volcanic regions on the
Exploring Twin Falls’ Box Canyon & Shoshone Falls
Southern Idaho is often overlooked in favor of neighboring states. But Twin Falls and its surroundings – particularly the stunning Shoshone Falls and Box Canyon – make for the perfect stopover when traveling between Yellowstone and Salt Lake City. Not being a local, there are surely plenty more hidden gems around Twin Falls that I
The Perfect Two-Week Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip Itinerary
Utah has so many incredible locations – many of which remain relatively unknown – that it would probably take a lifetime to explore them all. With that said, this Utah Mighty 5 road trip itinerary will take you to many of the highlights over the course of two weeks. Throughout the itinerary, you’ll encounter ‘Extending
Ranking Utah’s Mighty 5
Utah is home to five incredible National Parks that are collectively known as the Mighty 5. But nobody can seem to agree on which is best. After ranking Utah’s Mighty 5 in my head, I was surprised to discover that no other list online seems to place the parks in the same order. While indeed subjective,
Exploring The Great Salt Lake: Antelope Island & Bonneville Salt Flats
The Great Salt Lake is among the saltiest bodies of water in the world, while it’s also among the largest lakes in the western USA. It’s such a big deal that they even named a city after it. Accordingly, most visitors to Salt Lake City will want to experience the lake in one way or
Canyonlands: A 4×4 Tour Up The Shafer Trail & White Rim Road
Most people will visit Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district via a smooth, paved road from central Moab. But if you have the right vehicle, driving up the many switchbacks of the Shafer Trail is an unforgettable way to get there. About halfway up the mesa, meanwhile, is the scenic White Rim Road,
Dead Horse Point State Park: Worth The Visit?
Dead Horse Point State Park is situated atop the same mesa as Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district. As such, it offers similar views. But as it’s outside the National Park system, you’ll need to pay a separate fee of $20 per vehicle. With so much to see around the Moab area, you’re
Arches National Park: The Ultimate Guide
Arches National Park, just outside of Moab, Utah, is home to over 2,000 natural arches. But while many of them are inaccessible, you can expect to see a few dozen of them while exploring the park’s scenic hiking trails. And given the park’s small size, you can reasonably expect to see everything in under two
Hiking Fiery Furnace: A Hike Unlike Any Other
While Zion’s Angels Landing and The Narrows are renowned for being some of the most unique hikes in the country, Arches National Park‘s Fiery Furnace should definitely be included in that conversation. While indeed scenic, hiking Fiery Furnace won’t bring you to any breathtaking vistas. Rather, think of it like a maze that requires both
Canyonlands: Exploring The Overlooked Needles District
The Needles is the southernmost of Canyonlands National Park’s three main districts. But there’s no way to drive there directly from the Island in the Sky, the park’s most popular area. As such, visiting The Needles district feels like going to an entirely separate park. And it looks like one, too. Canyonlands gets the least
Ancient Utah: Exploring Bears Ears National Monument
Established as recently as December 2016, Utah’s Bears Ears National Monument consists of a staggering 1.36 million acres. While it does indeed include beautiful scenery, the land is largely being protected due to its archaeological, historical and religious importance. Bears Ears was founded upon the insistence of native tribes who wanted federal protection for numerous
Canyonlands: Exploring The Island in The Sky
Canyonlands National Park is the largest of Utah’s Mighty 5. It’s comprised of multiple different districts such as The Needles, the Maze and the Island in the Sky, the latter of which is the most popular by far. This district is situated atop a huge 1,000 ft-high mesa which offers some of the Southwest’s most
Goblin Valley State Park & Its Mysterious Hoodoos
Located at the southern end of the San Rafael Swell, Goblin Valley State Park is known for its thousands of hoodoos which, with a bit of imagination, can make you feel as if you’re indeed being watched by goblins! Goblin Valley State Park makes for a convenient stopover for those traveling between Capitol Reef National Park
Hidden Utah Gems: Factory Butte & Moonscape Overlook
Just east of Capitol Reef National Park – an underrated destination in its own right – are even more obscure geological landmarks that relatively few have heard of. Everyone driving along Utah State Highway 24 will at least see the massive Factory Butte from a distance at some point, though it’s much better appreciated from
Capitol Reef National Park: The Ultimate Guide
Established in 1971, Capitol Reef National Park has a bit of all the things that Utah’s other parks are famous for – arches, hoodoos, canyons and stunning overlooks. But it’s easily the least crowded of Utah’s Mighty 5. In this Capitol Reef guide, we’ll be covering nearly all the hikes, historical landmarks and scenic vantage
Cathedral Valley: Bentonite Hills, Temple of the Sun & More
Cathedral Valley may be part of Capitol Reef, but it looks and feels like an entirely different park. The district is most known for two main sections: the Bentonite Hills and the Temples of the Sun and Moon. But as we’ll cover below, there are plenty of additional amazing sites to discover throughout Cathedral Valley. Before
Hiking Capitol Reef’s Rim Overlook & Navajo Knobs Trail
After dealing with stressful hike permit lotteries and timed entry systems at other Utah parks, visiting Capitol Reef National Park is a breath of fresh air. The park’s flagship hike – Navajo Knobs – is freely accessible to anyone, while you’ll likely have much of the trail to yourself. It’s easily one of the most
Kodachrome Basin State Park: What to Do & See In a Day
The southern half of Utah is home to so many parks and unique landmarks that plenty of great destinations get lost in the shuffle. Kodachrome Basin State Park is one such overlooked site. Yet if you plan in advance, it makes for an easy stopover between Bryce Canyon (or Zion) and Capitol Reef National Park.
Hiking The Narrows: One of America’s Most Unique Hikes
Hiking The Narrows is a one-of-a-kind experience that has you hiking through a gorge cut out by the North Fork of the Virgin River. In other words, the river is the trail! And that, of course, means you’re going to get soaking wet. As such, you’ll need to consider a number of factors when preparing
Hiking Angels Landing: Everything You Need to Know
Zion National Park’s Angels Landing is one of America’s most thrilling hikes, as the final section can only be traversed by grabbing onto metal chains. But thanks to its uniqueness, the hike has also gotten extremely popular, and it can now only be accessed with a permit. In this guide, we’ll be covering everything you
Death Valley: The Ultimate Packing List
Death Valley National Park is one of America’s largest parks and also one of its most diverse. Infamous for its extreme summer temperatures, the park can also get surprisingly cold in the mountains – especially during winter. Coming adequately prepared is essential to both your enjoyment and your survival, and this Death Valley packing list
An Unforgettable Death Valley Itinerary: From 1-5 days
Given the massive size of the National Park and how distant its main landmarks are from nearby towns, planning a perfect Death Valley itinerary is extremely tricky. There are also plenty of other variables to consider, such as the season you visit, the type of vehicle you’ll be driving, how much of a hiker you
Top 5 Things to Do in Death Valley
Death Valley National Park is the United States’ largest park outside of Alaska. While many picture it as a lifeless desert, at over 3 million acres, few other parks offer as much variety as Death Valley. While by no means an exhaustive list, the guide below takes a look at the top five things to
Hiking Death Valley’s Golden Canyon & Gower Gulch Loop
The Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Loop Hike is arguably the quintessential Death Valley hike. Over the course of a few hours, it takes you through the harsh and lifeless – yet stunningly beautiful – desert scenery that most people associate with the National Park. But in true Death Valley fashion, the hike can get
Hiking Telescope Peak: Death Valley’s Highest Mountain
While far from the type of excursion most people picture when they think of Death Valley, hiking Telescope Peak is one of the park’s most thrilling and rewarding adventures. The National Park may be home to the lowest point in the Americas, but conquering Death Valley’s highest mountain takes you up to an elevation of
Racetrack Playa & The Mystery of the Sailing Stones
Racetrack Playa and its sailing stones have mystified scientists and adventurous travelers alike for over a century. Situated in a remote and hard-to-reach part of Death Valley National Park, the playa is a flat, dry lakebed that’s home to dozens of rocks that seemingly move on their own – but only when nobody’s around. In
Hiking Ubehebe Crater: Everything You Need to Know
At half a mile wide and up to 777 ft deep, Ubehebe is Death Valley’s largest crater. While visitors have the option to simply overlook the colorful crater from the parking lot, more adventurous travelers can get a much closer look. Not only does the Ubehebe Crater hike entail walking around the rim, but you
Mojave National Preserve: The Kelso Dunes & More
The massive Mojave National Preserve, located between Joshua Tree and Death Valley, is one of California’s most overlooked outdoor destinations. The towering Kelso Dunes alone are worth the trip, while other parts of the park feature unique hikes like the Ring Loops Trail. Established in 1994, the Mojave National Preserve covers 1.6 million acres – about
A Guide to Joshua Tree: How to Spend a Weekend in The Park
Spreading out to nearly 800,000 acres, Joshua Tree National Park is the place where the Colorado and Mojave deserts converge. Millions of visitors flock to this harsh desert environment each year to admire its uniquely shaped granite boulders and of course, Joshua trees, a species of yucca. In this Joshua Tree guide, we’ll be covering the top
Hiking The Ladder Canyon and Painted Canyon Loop Trail
While easily one of the most thrilling hikes in southern California, the Ladder Canyon and Painted Canyon Loop Trail often gets overlooked. It’s not a part of any major park system, nor is it simple to reach. But considering how it’s right in between Joshua Tree National Park and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, outdoor enthusiasts
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: The Top Sites & Trails
At over 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California’s largest State Park. For reference, if it were a US National Park, it would rank among the top twenty largest. As such, you can’t expect to see everything in a single day – or even two. The park was named after Juan Bautista de Anza,
Torrey Pines: A Complete Hiking Guide
Just north of San Diego is a gorgeous State Park that doesn’t quite get the attention it deserves. The Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve is home to the Torrey pine, one of the rarest pine trees in the world. The park also features numerous hiking trails and a beach. In the following guide, we’ll help you
A Day at Red Rock Canyon: Hikes, Petroglyphs & More
It’s hard to believe that the rugged sandstone cliffs of Red Rock Canyon can be found just seventeen miles from the Las Vegas Strip. But while easy to reach, a day at Red Rock Canyon isn’t that easy to plan for, as the Conservation Area is home to more than two dozen hikes. In the
A Day in Death Valley: Experiencing the Beauty of This Land of Extremes
At over 3 million acres, Death Valley is the largest National Park in the United States outside of Alaska. Needless to say, you can’t expect to see it all in a single extended visit, let alone within a single day. Be that as it may, there is indeed a lot one can see and do
Valley of Fire State Park: The Fire Wave, Elephant Rock & More
Situated in the Mojave Desert just an hour east of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is home to so many beautiful formations that it even rivals some US National Parks. In the following guide, we’ll be covering nearly all of the trails and landmarks one can experience when visiting Valley of Fire in
Cathedral Gorge State Park: Exploring Its Slot Canyons & Hiking Trails
Outside the town of Panaca, Nevada lies a Southwest hidden gem. Despite having become a Nevada State Park as early as 1935, Cathedral Gorge gets relatively little attention, likely due to its remote location. As with plenty of other spots in the Southwest, it’s home to slot canyons and desert trails. Yet Cathedral Gorge State
One Day in Bryce Canyon: The Top Hikes & Viewpoints
Bryce Canyon is the smallest of Utah’s Mighty 5 by far. At around 36,000 acres (or 72 km2), it’s less than half the size of Arches. And it’s nearly a tenth the size of Canyonlands (337,000 acres). But millions of visitors still come each year to admire Bryce’s iconic hoodoos. Most people, however, stick to the
Exploring the Extraordinary White Pocket
Some describe visiting northern Arizona’s White Pocket as like walking across a giant glob of strawberry swirl ice cream. Others liken it to exploring an alien planet. Whatever it may remind you of, nearly all those who visit White Pocket call it one of the most extraordinary geological formations in the US Southwest – if
A Guide to the Overlooked Grand Canyon North Rim
The Grand Canyon has long been one of America’s most iconic and popular destinations. A large majority of people, however, visit what’s known as the South Rim. The North Rim, in contrast, sees only a fraction of the visitors. And with equally impressive views, it’s ideal for those who want to escape the crowds. In
Colorful Kanab: Toadstool Hoodoos – Old Paria – Coral Pink Sand Dunes
The small town of Kanab, Utah serves as a base for countless geological wonders, and it would probably take weeks to see them all. Below, however, we’ll be focusing on three remarkable sites on the town’s outskirts: Toadstool Hoodoos, Old Paria and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. I visited each on the same
Antelope Canyon X vs. Lower Antelope Canyon
Even if you don’t recognize the name, you’ve surely seen photos of Antelope Canyon’s wavy sandstone walls at some point, be it a computer desktop background or digital ad campaign. Located just outside of Page, Arizona, it’s now one of the US Southwest’s most popular destinations. While, as we’ll cover shortly, the canyon is divided
Top 5 Things to Do in Page (That Aren’t Antelope Canyon)
While Page, Arizona’s top attraction is undoubtedly Antelope Canyon, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to experience within easy reach of the town center. The following list of the top things to do in Page – almost all of them hikes – will help you escape the crowds while getting to enjoy some of
Mexican Hat: Valley of the Gods, Goosenecks State Park & More
There are few towns with names as unusual as Mexican Hat, Utah – a town of a few dozen people about 25 miles north of Monument Valley. But there’s much more to Mexican Hat than a silly name, such as its namesake rock formation, Goosenecks State Park and Valley of the Gods, which many call
Experiencing a Monument Valley Sunrise Tour
Monument Valley is arguably one of the most photogenic places on the planet. But a large portion of it is off-limits without a guide. So, to gain special access to the backcountry, you may want to consider a Monument Valley sunrise tour. There are two types of sunrise tours available: basic tours and special photography tours,
Sunset Over Mystery Valley
Monument Valley is arguably one of the most beautiful places in North America – if not the entire planet. But visitors are only allowed access to a small portion of it without a guide. And one of the most popular guided excursions in the area is a sunset tour through the aptly-named Mystery Valley. Located
The Monument Valley Scenic Drive: A Complete Guide
Thanks to its appearance in numerous influential films over the years, Monument Valley has become synonymous with the American West. Officially known as Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, it’s not a US National Park, as it’s managed by the Navajo Nation. And unlike public parks, non-locals are prohibited from accessing most of the area without signing
The Mysterious Towers of Hovenweep National Monument
Shortly after the collapse of sites like Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde, the unique Ancestral Puebloan city of Hovenweep arose in what’s now southeastern Utah. Hovenweep National Monument is mainly known for its well-preserved towers built in the 13th century. But their true function remains a mystery. Were they built for defense, or perhaps long-distance
A Tour Through Colorado’s Canyons of the Ancients
The Great Sage Plain, which encompasses southwest Colorado and southeast Utah, was settled between 500 and 1300 AD. In its heyday, it was the most densely-crowded part of the Ancestral Puebloan world. Today, a large portion of the area is part of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, home to a staggering thousands of individual
Mesa Verde National Park: The Ultimate Guide
Despite having been occupied for a relatively brief period of time, the cliff dwellings of Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park make up what’s arguably the most breathtaking archaeological site in the United States. But with the park covering such a massive area, and with accessible attractions changing from year to year, planning a visit can
The Valley of Dreams: Hiking to The Alien Throne
Northwestern New Mexico is home to some of the most bizarre yet strikingly beautiful rock formations on the planet. Under ordinary circumstances, such unique landscapes would attract hordes of visitors year-round. But the remote locations of the Valley of Dreams and nearby Bisti Badlands, which can only be accessed by traversing poorly-maintained dirt roads, keep
The Otherworldly Landscapes of Bisti Badlands
The American Southwest is home to some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. But even with so much competition nearby, New Mexico’s bizarre Bisti Badlands is among the most breathtaking and unique parts of the region. With that being said, it hardly gets any visitors, and there’s a high chance you’ll have it
Visiting The Aztec Ruins National Monument & The Salmon Ruins
The Four Corners region of the Southwest United States is arguably the most archaeologically rich part of the country. While Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde are easily the top highlights, many visitors miss various smaller sites that are scattered throughout the region, such as the Aztec Ruins National Monument and the Salmon Ruins. Conveniently, they’re both
Chaco Canyon: The Ultimate Guide
Situated in a remote corner of northwest New Mexico are what were once the United States’ largest manmade structures. Established by the Ancestral Puebloans over a millennium ago, Chaco Canyon (officially known as Chaco Culture National Historical Park) is arguably the most impressive archaeological park in the country. But planning a visit can be tricky,
Exploring Bandelier National Monument & The Tsankawi Trail
Just about an hour outside of Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument is a unique archaeological site consisting of dozens of cave dwellings carved into the walls of the scenic Frijoles Canyon. In the following guide, you can learn exactly what to expect from a visit to the main site, in addition to a hike along
A Weekend in Santa Fe: America’s Oldest Capital
Known for its adobe buildings, thriving arts scene and fascinating blend of multiple cultures, Santa Fe is one of the United States’ most unique cities. And it’s also among the country’s most historic, having been established as early as 1610. In the following Santa Fe guide, we’ll be covering the top things to see and
Street Art: New York City
When looking at the history and development of street art, it would be impossible to overlook New York City’s massive role. While public art, in the form of murals or sculptures, has been around since the birth of civilization, many credit 1970’s NYC youth culture with the creation of what we now call graffiti. Graffiti
Five Secrets of Central Park
Designed back in the 1850’s, Central Park often tops the list of places to see in NYC, with millions visiting each year. But if you’re the type who generally avoids crowds and touristy places, you may be wondering if there’s more to explore beyond the top highlights. Fortunately, there is. From the secluded Hallett Nature
Touring the Tombs of Green-Wood Cemetery
Back in the early 19th century, New York City was completely lacking in vast, open green spaces (Central Park wasn’t established until 1853). So when Green-Wood Cemetery, which stretches out to 478 acres, opened up in 1838, it was a pretty big deal. New Yorkers flocked there for family picnics and leisurely strolls – completely unconcerned about
The Colorful Mosaics of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Taking up over half a block along the bohemian South Street, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is immediately recognizable at a glance. The entire structure is covered in colorful mosaic tiles, appearing straight out of a dream. And for a fee of $10, visitors have the chance to step inside and explore. Started by local artist Isaiah
Street Art: Philadelphia
Considering Philly’s rank as the fifth-largest city in the United States, it shouldn’t come as a big surprise that it’s got an abundance of street art. But the Philadelphia street art scene has something going for it that other cities don’t: Mural Arts Philadelphia, the largest public art program in the United States. Started in
A Guide to Philadelphia’s pre-20th Century Architecture
Philadelphia is home to some of the USA’s most stunning – not to mention oldest – architecture. Many of these buildings, of course, could still be considered ‘new’ by European standards. But what’s fascinating about Philadelphia’s oldest buildings is that they also reveal the story of the nation’s early years, as well as the transitions
The Spooky Cellblocks of Eastern State Penitentiary
It’s not often that one pays money to enter a prison. But even if walking down spooky, crumbling cellblocks isn’t normally your thing, consider making an exception for Eastern State Penitentiary. Not only was the massive prison – which ceased operations in 1971 – home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, but it was
The Mounds and Mysteries of Ancient Ohio
Long before the first European settlers arrived, the Ohio region was home to some of North America’s most advanced civilizations. As they left behind no writing, we know relatively little about them. But we do know that the Adena, Hopewell and Fort Ancient peoples, as they’re called today, loved to build mounds. And masterpieces like
Touring the Tombs of Bellefontaine Cemetery
Tragic struck 1849 St. Louis when a cholera epidemic resulted in the deaths of thousands. But according to common belief at the time, urban cemeteries were a public health risk. So where to place all the bodies? Prominent residents of the city decided to build a new large cemetery well outside the city limits. It
Street Art: St. Louis
As ‘street art tourism’ gains popularity around the world, St. Louis is fast becoming recognized as one of North America’s premier graffiti destinations. The ‘Gateway to the West’ has been hosting regular street art festivals since the ’90s, and the city is also home to the Graffiti Wall, the longest of its kind in the
Cahokia: The Forgotten Pyramid of Illinois
Many Americans are shocked to learn that their country is home to an ancient pyramid that stands as tall as 100 feet. Mysteriously, the fascinating history of Cahokia and its Monks Mound pyramid aren’t covered in most schools. Be that as it may, Cahokia was the largest pre-Colombian urban settlement north of the Rio Grande.