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Top 30 Most Instagrammable Places in The United States

The United States in its rich diversity has endless breathtaking spots. These both natural and man-made spots make for amazing shots and even better Instagram images! We have selected the best photo spots across the United States to make your friends, family and social media followers jealous. Fill your Instagram feed with amazing photos this upcoming year!

Instagram has been a big source of inspiration for us. We normally try to travel to places that are on our bucket list and then we go to Instagram to see where to actually visit in each destination. Steven has visited all 50 states and Jazmin has visited 40 states and we cannot wait to head out on the road again.

Whether you are looking for inspiration for your next adventure or already have a US road trip planned, there is some inspiration for everyone. We try to mix the iconic famous landmarks and locations with more breathtaking hidden gems. So get ready for you next instagrammable trip.

Some of the most Instagrammed locations in the country are the Golden Bridge in San Francisco, The Brooklyn Bridge in New York and the lifeguards tower on South Beach in Miami.

The most instagrammable places in USA:

Bryce canyon, utah.

bryce canyon national park

Rather than the traditional Grand Canyon, we recommend heading over to Bryce Canyon. This vast park is filled with a standing army of bright red hoodoos, tall thin rock formations created from erosion. With its breathtaking landscapes you will know the socks of Instagram.

➳ Read More: The complete guide to visit Bryce Canyon

Wynwood Walls, Florida

Wynwood Walls Street Graffiti Art

The unique open air graffiti of Wynwood Walls provides some of the most amazing street art. While many do not know about this spot in Miami it has some of the funnest shots in the city. Leave the beach resort photos behind and head to Wynwood Walls!

➳ Read More: What to do in Wynwood Walls

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls en Invierno

Niagara Falls might only be half in the United States but it still makes it on our list. Grab a blue plastic poncho before heading on the Maid of the Mist for a classic shot in the rainbow of the falls.

➳ Read More: What to do in Niagara Falls in the winter

Greenworks Florist, Washington DC

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Urban Light and LACMA in Los Angeles, California

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Los Angeles is considered one of the most Instagrammed cities in the world . Our favorite place in Los Angeles is the Urban Light installation at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The installation consists of 202 historic street lamps that bright the outside of the museum every night.

➳ Read More: What to do in Los Angeles in 3 days

Crystal Mills, Colorado

Hidden in the mountains of Colorado, Crystal Mills is only accessible by 4X4. Built in 1892 to service the now ghost town of Crystal, the mill remains intact with an epic surrounding make for a once in a lifetime image.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQjhIk0BJSM

Disney, Florida

Disney

Well, it is the happiest place on earth! Grab an image with your favorite Disney character, in any of the beautifully decorated sections of the park and of course in front of Cinderella’s Castle. In Disney World we found Epcot to offer the best photos as it is the least busy park.

Maroon Bells, Colorado

Maroon Bells is right at the edge of Aspen, Colorado. It is easy to reach in the warmer months and makes for an amazing reflection photos with its vast green grasses, large lake and towering peaks.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQt0LFcgy_P

White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire

While there is never really a bad time to visit the White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire it is a prime destination for those looking to enjoy and photograph fall foliage. Come autumn the entire forest turns to a rainbow of red, orange and yellows.

View this post on Instagram Much of the White Mountains area may be past peak but you can still find a splash of red and some shades of orange. Thanks for the tag and photo @vincentjamesphotography, it is stunning. #mountainfoliage #whitemountains #fall #foliage #nh A post shared by White Mountains New Hampshire (@whitemountains) on Oct 18, 2016 at 1:15pm PDT

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park became the first national park in 1872 and we can definitely see why. From its lush forests to its iconic geyser with endless colorful hot springs in between there is the perfect photo for everyone. Just have your camera ready in case a free roaming buffalo happens to wander by.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXxejxDFqkB

Havasu Falls, Arizona

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Havasu Falls is one of the most magical places in the United States but you do need to have a permit to visit, so make sure to plan ahead and add this amazing destination to your bucket list!

➳ Read More: Plan your hike to Havasu Falls

Rocky Mountains National Park, Colorado

We used to live in Colorado and one of the things we miss the most is visiting the Rockies Mountain National Park. The park is magical!

➳ Read More: What to do in Rockies Mountain National Park

Central Park, New York

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➳ Read More: What to do in New York City in 2 days

Nubble Lighthouse, Maine

Cape Neddick Lighthouse

Maine is one of our favorite states! It has so many beautiful landscapes. We recommend driving the whole coast starting from Boston, MA and ending in Acadia National Park.

➳ Read More: The Ultimate Road Trip to explore Maine

Brooklyn Bridge, New York

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New York is full with of amazing spots to get a Instagram worthy photo but some of the most frequently Instagrammed spots are Times Square , the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stevie & Jaz | Travel Couple (@traveltoblank) on Feb 26, 2018 at 9:19am PST

I think the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in the United States, and no matter what angle you take the photo from, it will come up fantastic! We recommend to head down to Washington Street in Brooklyn to get the “Instagram famous picture of the bridge”. The intersection of Washington and Front streets frames the Manhattan Bridge perfectly.

➳ Read More: The best things to do in New York City

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Driving along the prairies of South Dakota the vast dramatic ridges of Badlands National Park jut out in surprise. With its colorful sedimentary lines and breathtaking sky you will leave all your Instagram followers jealous.

View this post on Instagram Our last day in @SouthDakota started at 4am #worthit . . #mygreatplace #southdakota #hifromsd #Gettingstamped #ad A post shared by Adam & Hannah ✈Travel Couple (@gettingstamped) on May 3, 2017 at 9:20pm PDT

Golden Gate Bridge, California

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Death Valley, California

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Death Valley is HOT, but it is beautiful! There are so many cool hikes to do. The best places to take photos in Death Valley are the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the Badwater Basin and the Zabriskie Point, and the Artist’s Palette.

➳ Read More: The Complete Road Trip Itinerary to explore the West Coast

Seven Magic Mountains, Nevada

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My favorite art exhibition in Las Vegas. It was supposed to last a couple of years but it became so popular that they have extended its duration.

➳ Read More: What to do in Las Vegas, the best things to do!

Forrest Gump Point, Utah

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Forrest Gump Point is becoming more and more popular on Instagram! Make sure to snap the “tradicional photo” but also to explore other areas of the Park. You do not need to buy a ticket to get this photo!

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stevie & Jaz | Travel Couple (@traveltoblank) on Jan 30, 2017 at 6:09pm PST

If you love waterfalls with a unique twist then Multnomah Falls, right outside of Portland, Oregon is the right place for you!

Yosemite National Park, California

One of the most Instagram famous spot in Yosemite National Park is the view of the Half Dome from Glacier Point, but no matter where you go in Yosemite you will always find an instagrammable spot!

Valley of Fire, Nevada

one day trip usa instagram

Valley of Fire is the oldest and coolest state park in Nevada! It has so many cool hikes and many Instagrammable spots! The best day is that you can see the whole park in one day!

➳ Read More: What to do in Valley of Fire in a day

Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

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Horseshoe Bend is a dream come true for travelers and photographers! The best time of the day to visit Horseshoe bend is at the blue hour or during sunset.

Freedom Trail, Boston

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The Freedom Trail is the best way to explore Boston and to get so many beautiful photos with the main landmarks of the city.

➳ Read More: What to do in Boston in the Freedom Trail

Big Sur, California

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There is no place like California. No matter where you go in California, you will always find something that will blow your mind. Our favorite area to take Instagram photos is Big Sur, trust me you will have to stop every 5 minutes.

➳ Read More: The Complete Road Trip Itinerary to explore California

Skyview, Atlanta

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We love Atlanta and our favorite spot to take Instagram worthy photos is from the Centennial Olympic Park.

➳ Read More: The best things to do in Atlanta near the Centennial Olympic Park

Alburquerque, New Mexico

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The best time to go to Albuquerque is during the Balloon Fiesta! The Balloon Fiesta is a nine-day event occurring in the first full week of October, and has over 500 hot air balloons each year.

➳ Read More:  The Balloon Fiesta and all you need to know

Rainbow Row, South Carolina

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Charleston is packed with Instagram-worthy places, from colorful buildings to historic churches to beautiful beaches.

➳ Read More: The best things to do in Charleston in 2 days

Sedona National Park, Arizona

Sedona’s beauty is a must see for any visitors in Arizona. With its red sandstone rock formations, steep canyons and pine forests it will leave you wanting more and more. Get your walking shoes ready for a walk on the wild side.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVXW_DRHAjg

Check out Netflights for even more USA Instagram Icons . As always, let us know your favorite spot in the comments below!

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30 Most Instagrammable Places In the United States

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One Day in Sedona: What to Do on a Day Trip to Sedona

Wednesday 1st of April 2020

[…] is one of the most instagrammable places in the US, equal parts rugged terrain and equal parts resort. The town is famous for its its great views, […]

Friday 12th of January 2018

I’ve been to 4 of these places!! I wanna get to all of them! ❤

Thursday 17th of August 2017

Adore the Wynwoods Mall wall! So colorful!

xoxox Holly – http://www.collegewanderlust.com

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Mystery Road Trips

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STEP-BY-STEP

How does it work?

Our itineraries include a 'Before You Go' package and four surprise stops. Each stop is packed with a new destination, specific recommendations, maps, travel tips and fun facts.

Select your trip style.

Select a day trip based on your location, interests, and travel preferences OR take our quiz to help narrow down options.

Get your package.

Choose between receiving a beautifully crafted package in the mail OR a PDF (digital version) of the trip which gets sent right to your inbox.

Pack your car.

Each package includes a ‘Before You Go’ booklet that will give you just enough information without spoiling the surprise destinations on your road trip.

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Choose Your Starting Location

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Our Trip Map

Our interactive map allows you to search for a trip's ending destination. Simply type in your city or address to see the closest trips to you.

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Our carefully crafted itineraries feature four surprise stops, each one packed with unique suggestions, maps, insider tips, and fascinating facts that make exploring your local area a breeze.

Your trip package includes a ‘Before You Go’ guide and a series of envelopes that will lead you to several surprise destinations on your road trip.

Need help choosing a trip?

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Why this makes a great gift

Perfect for the avid adventurer or the person who has it all, let them choose their own path with the help of Guess Where Trips. With each envelope comes a new exciting destination and locale to explore with none of the long hours of planning.

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CAN'T DECIDE?

Take our road trip quiz!

Enter your departing address, select your interests, and preferred driving duration to find the best trip for you.

TESTIMONIALS

What People are Saying...

Each stop was so well thought out, perfectly timed, and so much fun. Like the rest of the world, my wife and I have been stuck inside during the pandemic, but Guess Where Trips introduced us to some hidden gems, and reminded us of how much fun it is to get out and discover new spots (and took away the stress of planning!). It was the perfect getaway. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

OMG! I did the Funky Florals trip yesterday with my mom and some friend and wow! The spots were absolutely amazing. The first stop was my favourite. If that was the only one it still would have been worth it! The rapids are insane! Doing the surprise trip next weekend and cannot wait! Thank you! Can't wait to see what's coming for the winter.

I cannot thank you enough for this! We went on our adventures trip and it exceeded our expectations! My kids were very excited to open the envelopes after each stop to see where we were going next. I took my mom as well, and she enjoyed every minute of it. The third stop was stunning! We stayed at the patio of the vineyard and enjoyed the beautiful view while we ate and sipped on some wine. Oh and the donkey sanctuary...cutest thing ever. Today has been one of the most memorable days yet!

My mom turns 60 this week and she always says she doesn't 'NEED' anything. So, I decided to get her a Guess Where Trip so that she could spend an entire day with her family doing something fun. She LOVED it!!! She said it was such a great idea and wants to go on another one with me ASAP! Thanks so much for an amazing day!

Ah! I just have to let you guys know, you're amazing at putting together fantastic road trips! We started out on the Hops & History tour, and ended up in the CUTEST beach town (you guys weren't lying).

Went on our third Guess Where Trips today, and like the others, it exceeded our expectations! Never know where we are headed until the day we go on our trip. Very well planned out road trips. They have taken me to many places I've never been to.

Not to be dramatic, but I went on one of your trips last weekend and it was the best day of my life.

My girlfriend and I went on your Weird and Wonderful trip on Saturday and we just wanted to say that it was such an amazing experience! From the moment we opened our first envelope it was clear that your team is dedicated to creating a very memorable experience for each of the stops! My girlfriend and I want to say thank you for helping us create some amazing memories and can't wait to do more trips in the future!

Absolutely LOVED our surprise adventure from @guesswheretrips! We visited so many beautiful and interesting places that we never would have stopped at otherwise. Also, the roadside food stops were 10/10. I highly recommend checking them out if you're looking for an amazing action-packed day!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We're here to help

What is guess where trips.

At Guess Where Trips®, we specialize in self-guided one-day surprise road trips . Leave the stress of planning to us! We design each road trips around a general theme, so you will have an idea of what you might get up to during the day, but you won’t know where we’re sending you! We love finding new small businesses, hidden gems, cute cafes, and picturesque towns. 

Need us to take even more stress off of the planning and help you choose a trip? 

Fill out our quiz here to help you decide on a trip!

What will I receive in the mail?

Our mailed road trips ($65) include a well-curated itinerary for the day with a focus on scenic routes, hidden gems, unique businesses, photo ops and a lot more. We pack the itineraries with travel tips, fun facts and stories about the places you’ll be visiting. Our trips come in five envelopes, which are tied with a bow and placed into a folder to keep everything neat and tidy. The digital version ($39) of the trip comes as a pdf.

Note: If you choose the PDF option, there are no surprise stop envelopes. All of the stops will be sent digitally to your email in one file , so scrolling through the entire document will reveal the surprise stops.

What's not included:  Food, drinks, gas, and admission (if there is a fee!) are not included in the price of our trips.

How long will my order take to ship? How much does shipping cost?

For orders over $50, we will ship your package for  free .

Shipping within Canada

We use Canada Post for all shipping within Canada. Our (free) expedited option takes 5-7 business days.

If you need your order quicker, there is an Xpresspost option at checkout for $12.

Shipping to the USA

We use UPS for shipping to the United States. The free shipping option takes 4-8 business days, while the $15 paid option takes 1-3 business days.

Do you have any overnight trips?

Although we cannot book hotels on your behalf, we do recommend extending the adventure by turning your one day road day trip into an overnight getaway (especially if you choose one more than 4 hours round-trip from home!) Keep an eye out for your confirmation email! In it, we will send you a list of our favourite hotels in the end destination if you would like to extend your trip.

How long are your trips?

Each trip takes roughly 6-8 hours to complete - this includes time spent at the recommendation and driving. Under the FAQ section of each trip page, you will find more detailed information about the round-trip driving distance from nearby cities. This will give you a better idea of how much time you can expect to spend in the car, based on your departure location.

How do I redeem my gift card?

After choosing a trip, please enter your 16-character code on the checkout page in the field under ‘Have a Gift Card?.’ This will then take your order to a zero balance.

Are your trips kid-friendly and dog-friendly?

Kid-friendly: Yes! Almost all of our trips are kid-friendly. Click here for our kid-friendly trips. (This will show you all of our kid-friendly trips both in Canada and the US). We recommend choosing trips shorter in driving distance to ensure it’s a pleasant drive for everyone.

Dog-friendly: Many of our trips are dog-friendly or some what dog-friendly! Click here for our dog-friendly trips (This will show you all of our dog-friendly trips both in Canada and the US). The trip page itself will also let you know if it is okay to bring your pup or not. Note: most restaurants and stores do not allow dogs inside, so most of your day will be spent outdoors if you bring a furry friend along.

Are your trips wheelchair accessible or good for people with low mobility?

Yes! Many of our trips are wheelchair accessible and good for low mobility. On the trip page, we list if the trip is wheelchair accessible. Click here for a list of all our most wheelchair accessible trips. (This will show you all of our wheelchair accessible trips both in Canada and the US).

Does the cost of the package include the entrance to any activities?

Most of the activities and attractions we recommend are free or have a minimal entrance cost (under $10/per person). We note the approximate costs per person in each trip package. If there is a higher entrance fee, we will recommend a free nearby alternative.

What's Included:

A ‘Before You Go’ guide with a packing list, approximate driving distances and more tips to plan for your day ahead.

A series of four stops that will make up your day’s itinerary with recommended roadside stops along the way.

Restaurant, attractions and activity recommendations based on your trip style.

Mailed version: includes 5 printed booklets (a Before You Go and 4 surprise stops) and shipping.

What's Not Included:

Transportation and gas.

Entrances and parking fees for some of recommended attractions (the majority of stops are free).

Food, beverages and gratuities.

PDF version: does not include printed booklets, itinerary is emailed

What we're up to

Follow us to see what we're up to

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Can’t find the answer to your question?

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Select Your Location

Choose your location to start your Summer Camp Adventure!

  • United Kingdom

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The Best Travel Instagram Accounts To Follow

Need some travel inspiration.

Every corner on Instagram, there’s travel videos and photos covering the feeds of fond travellers, who all wish they were the ones jetting off to a new country. We have to admit, we do get extreme FOMO, but there’s nothing better than diving deep into the pages and pages of pictures, inspiring the inner explorer to come alight and start planning the next trip away. While scrolling through the hundreds of traveller Instagram accounts, we discovered some accounts that we just had to share with you. If you need some travel inspiration for your 30 days of travel after camp , check out our top 11 best travel Instagram accounts you should follow.

@TheBlondeabroad

Blondieabroad travel Instagram account

Kiki aka @Theblondeabroad is inspirational for female solo travellers all around the world. She has been to over 70 countries and is still making it her mission to see and explore more of the world we live in. Her feed is inspirational and makes us proud to be strong women! Make sure to check out her blog website which is jam-packed full of tips and tricks on solo travel and travel guides.

@Oneworldjustgo

oneworldjustgo travel Instagram account

Tanya’s feed is just wow. The bright colours and unique images capture the beauty in the world. From the US, Marrakesh, Europe and Thailand, Tanya has had her fair share of trips. If you want your Instagram to look like as good as all of these travel bloggers, check out Tanya’s photographs to get inspired.

@Muradosmann

Muradosmann travel Instagram account

Murad’s feed is a work of art. Pictures are vibrant, powerful and nothing like we have seen ever before. To confirm how amazing his work is, he has been awarded the title ‘Influencer of the year’ and became one of the Top 3 Travel Influencers by Forbes. Pretty impressive, right? From exploring NYC to a helicopter ride over the Hollywood sign, Murad has taken some amazing photos from his time in the states.

@Funforlouis

funforlouis travel Instagram account

Louis has 1.2 million followers on Instagram and is known for his crazy adventures. (Louis and his team brought a little propeller plane to travel around the world!) He travelled across parts of the states and Mexico in a school bus, documenting his journey. If you want some ideas on where to go on your 30 days of travel, check out his Instagram feed and youtube videos.

@Doyoutravel

Doyoutravel travel Instagram account

Jack Morris and his girlfriend have been jumping from destination to destination. They capture each country beautifully to keep their followers up to date on their adventures. If you need some help editing your photos, both Jack and his girlfriend give tutorials on how they get their photos looking amazing.

@Girlgoneabroad

girlgoneabroad travel instagram account

Lauren aka Girlgoneabroad quit her 9-5 job and jetted off to get her travel fix. She has taught in Thailand, hopped over to Europe and travelled ever since. Her photos from the US are a little different from the typical National Park picture or Hollywood sign shot. Her unique photographs capture a different side to America that you might not have seen previously.

@The_globbers

The_globbers Instagram account

Luca and Ale are travel couple goals! Every time one of their photographs pop up onto our feed, we can’t help but wish we were anywhere but in the UK. The couple has explored California and New York in their trips to the states. Make sure to check out their NYC highlights. It has great ideas of where to go when you go to New York this summer!

@Thewayfaress

thewayfarees travel Instagram account

If you want to travel to Disneyland when in the US, check out Alexandra’s Instagram feed. She spent a couple of days travel exploring Disneyland, New York and the National Parks in the US. Her feed is truly magical and if you’re a true Disney fan, this is one of the best travel Instagram accounts for you.

@Backpackersglobe

backpackersglobe travel Instagram account

This is definitely one of the best travel Instagram accounts to follow. If you love nature and tropical vibes, you have to check out @Backpackersglobe. Their Instagram is filled with breathtaking images of the landscapes and wildlife around the US, Canada and Indonesia. One of our favourite pictures from their trip to Hawaii!

@Passportinonehand

passportinonehand Instagram account

We can’t lie. After seeing Laura’s Instagram, We all are currently wishing we were road tripping down route 66. From LA to New Orleans, Laura and Nicolas have mastered travelling in the US and have some great destinations for you to put on your list.

@Tiffpenguin

tiffpenguin travel Instagram account

If you love scrolling through hundreds of pictures of landscapes and scenery, follow @Tiffpenguin ! Her feed captures the magnificent panorama around the globe. She is also based in Los Angeles!

So, there you have it. That’s out top 11 travel Instagram accounts to inspire and motivate you to go explore and push yourself further. If you like what you saw and can’t wait to get out to the states, start your application to head out to Summer Camp here !

Jessica Lucas

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6 Emotions You’ll Feel on your First 4th of July

Here are 6 emotions you’ll feel on your first 4th of july.

It’s your first 4th of July in America and every American’s favourite day. It’s time to celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave and boy are you in for a treat. Red, white and blue are everywhere and you feel like you are in a fresh tube of Colgate toothpaste. You never thought you’d feel so patriotic for a country you’re not from but here you are belting out the National Anthem like you didn’t just learn the words two weeks ago.

Independence Day is not just a film about Aliens on the 4th of July

1. confusion.

There is none stop chanting of “USA, USA, USA!”. Everyone is in red, white and blue. There are stars and stripes literately everywhere. You didn’t realise how patriotic everyone is until today. Everyone is running around waving flags and singing Katy Perry. Independence Day isn’t just a film about aliens? What?! You thought that the bonfire firework display at your local park was a show. Think again. This display is something to rival Londons New Years Eve show. Who knew independence meant bottomless chicken wings? Sign us up!

2. Food Coma

There is food EVERYWHERE. You’ve gotten accustomed to the food at camp by now including the mad portion sizes. However, you were not prepared for today! You never knew it was possible to arrange burgers and hotdogs into an American flag display but here we are. There are snacks on snacks on snacks and you are ready. The food coma is coming and you welcome it in waves.

There is a lake with your name on it and you have the fear, bad. You’ve been hiding out all day trying to avoid getting thrown into the lake but tradition is tradition. The feeling of knowing that it is coming is the worst and you’re contemplating just throwing yourself in.

4. Patriotic

You might not be American but today you are an honorary citizen. Everyone else’s buzz for the country has got you swept up in the celebrations and your singing Star Bangled Banner with the rest of them. Today, this land is your land and today this land is my land. Go America!

All your campers have got you absolutely fizzing with excitement. There are fun, games and food everywhere. The only holiday you have to compare is Christmas and this is the Christmas of summer. You’re ready to fly the flag and fly the flag HARD. Why can’t every day be the 4th of July?

It’s been a long old day and you are ready for bed. The whole day has been non-stop and although it’s been enjoyable you are worn out. Who knew Independence was so exhausting?! It’s time to kick your feet up, make a cup of tea and go back to business as usual tomorrow. You’re retiring the red, white and blue for Color War. Until next time Independence Day!

Not Sure What To Do After Camp?

There are 52 states in America, spanning 3.8 square miles. Each state has its own individual charm as well as being packed full of a multitude of different Cities, Towns and new experiences. Deciding where you are going to go and what to see after camp can get overwhelming. For example, planning your travel after camp can end up leaving you with option overload.

Why You Should Travel With Contiki After Camp

We have recently partnered up with Contiki to bring you a selection of amazing trips and tours all across America. Take the pressure off and spend your summer enjoying your travels. Make every moment count and experience your dream trip your way. For instance, Contiki allows you to add exciting options into your trip in addition to your included experiences. With an expert Trip Manager leading your way, you’re in safe hands. Here’s why you should travel with Contiki after camp!

One Great Package

When you have selected your amazing trip all you now need to do is pay and go. Yes, it’s that simple! All your travel for the trip, accommodation and experiences are rolled into one great package. Dependent on your trip, you’ll even find some of your meals included too.  Exploring America and sourcing your own travel and accommodation can become quite costly. In addition, researching exactly where you want to go and booking onto these experiences can make the pennies stack up pretty quickly. Trying to get all this sorted while at camp can leave you with booking exhaustion. A reason why you should book with Contiki is that this is all sorted for you. What more could you need?

Make Friends Along The Way

Much like Camp, a trip with Contiki will see you making friends for life. You might find yourself left with nobody wanting to go where you would like to travel after camp. Similarly, there might only be two of you who want to travel to a certain place. With Contiki, you’ll have the safety and the comradery of being part of a group. Furthermore, the age of Contiki travellers ranges from 18 to 35 meaning you’ll be surrounded by people your own age. As well as the average age of Contiki travellers being 26, 55% are solo travellers. So, don’t be worried if you’re heading out on your own!

Unique Experiences

Prepare for your Bucket List to be looking pretty empty after a Contiki Trip! All of the must-see and do places will be included in your itinerary as well as some unique hidden spots. With tours including hot-spot locations such as Yosemite National Park and Route 66, you’ll have the opportunity to see Americas best locations. Your experience, your way. From LA to Canada, wherever you go after camp is up to you. Contiki is perfect for making the most out of your travel.

If you’re looking to explore more this summer, check out the amazing trips offered by Contiki! Save 10% on all full-price trips* and make the most of your travels!

Save 10% With Code PPUSASUMMERCAMP10

*Applicable on trips 7 days or more. Discounts apply to the land portion of your trip price only. Combinable with loyalty discount only. Discounts are subject to change.  £60 deposit, freedom guarantee, hold tours on option for up to 7 days, balance due to Contiki 45 days before departure.

The Best Way to Travel Around America?

You get 30 days of travel after America and the freedom to go where ever you, but you have one problem. How are you going to get around? With 52 States and a lot of miles in between, getting from a to b can present a few challenges. Worry not as there are plenty of travel options that can help get take you from camp to wherever you want to be! Moreover, there are also great travel packages from our amazing partners over at Contiki and TrekAmerica. They can sort out your travelling needs as well as your accommodation. Score!

You might already be familiar with Megabus , particularly if you are a seasoned traveller. With low-cost bus tickets to over 100 cities, it’s worth checking to see if Megabus can get you where you need. Either way, a quick look at the tickets could enlighten you to explore somewhere new for a low-cost price! Some tickets can start as low as $1! In all, the best way to travel around America is sometimes the cheapest and with Megabus , you get just that.

It’s worth checking whether the city you are in has a metro system. Similar to the tube, the metro can get you around the city very quickly which is often the best way to get around America! New York City is well known for its Subway and there are a handful of other cities that also have similar transportation systems. There are also handy apps as well as Google Maps that can guide you on which line to get for when you are navigating yourself around.

subway new york travelling

With low fares and a selection of direct routes, Greyhound can help you with your travel around America . There are hundreds of direct routes meaning you get exactly where you need to go. A bus ride across America will take a fair few hours but with free Wi-Fi and individual power outlets on every bus, a few Netflix episodes will help pass the time! Be inspired to explore more places and save money while you do it!

catch the greyhound bus to travel after camp

Get Lifts off America Friends

At Summer Camp, you’re bound to make friends for life. Some of these friends will even have cars! It’s worth checking to see if they are travelling after camp and whether you can hitch a ride with them. A road trip with friends is one of the best ways to explore America. If you need more info on planning a summer camp road trip, we have a handy blog post to help you out.

road trip with friends after camp

TrekAmerica

We are lucky to be partnered with great travel brands that can help you explore more. In addition, they can help with how to travel America while making more of your budget. TrekAmerica offers more than 50 unique trips. With a pre-planned trip, you’ll be with an experienced tour guide who can show you the best of what America has to offer. Also, with TrekAmerica your travel and accommodation are included, rolling your trip into one convenient package! Find out more about travelling with TrekAmerica here.

trek america travels

Another great brand we have partnered with is Contiki. Each trip is packed full of must-do experiences as well as your transport being covered door to door. An expert Trip Manager guides your trip from start to finish, allowing you to explore the best America has to offer.  With the option to include add-ons with your trip, it’s your travel your way. Make the most of America’s National parks or perhaps see the Golden Gate Bridge. With Contiki, there’s so much to explore. Find out more here.

travel with contiki across america

The Discoveries Of

7 Epic USA Itineraries: Planning The Perfect US Trip

Plan the perfect USA itinerary with this guide. Whether you have one week, 10 days or 1 month, I have you covered. 

Planning a trip to the USA ? The possibilities are endless. 

Do you want to scope the chilled-out vibes of the Southwest, or do you prefer a glimpse of the hustle and bustle in the Northeast? Maybe you’re planning a 1-month USA itinerary where you can see the highlights, or perhaps you only have 10 days in the USA. 

Let’s get a few things straight: with so much ground to cover, planning the perfect USA itinerary can be a tough gig. I travel to the States quite a few times a year, and it’s always difficult to balance wanting to see as much as possible during the course of a trip with the sheer scale of the place. However you plan to visit the USA, you’ll want to plan where to stay, what to do, and choose a few locations you can’t live without. Not to worry, I’m here to help. These travel itineraries for the USA will help you plan a straight-up banging trip so you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the ride. 

USA Itineraries

West Coast Road Trip

Twin Peaks, in San Francisco, California

Looking to see the best of the USA in 10 days? A West Coast road trip is a bucket list holiday for so many people. – Start driving down the PCH, and you’ll figure out why before your first exit. Start in San Francisco by taking the Golden Gate Bridge south (a bit of a detour, but well worth the vistas). 

On your way down Highway 1, prepare to stop a lot more than you planned. The views are epic, the towns often have their own unique charm, and there are plenty of amazing family-run restaurants (and In-N-Out burgers) you can access with a short detour.

You can take your time over 2 weeks, but if you want to do a 10-day USA itinerary, I suggest starting in San Francisco and choosing 2-3 overnight stays like I map out in this itinerary.

Route Summary

San Francisco >> Carmel-by-the-Sea >> Santa Barbara >> Los Angeles >> San Diego 

Distance: 625 miles (1,000 km) 

Length of Trip: 10 Days to 2 Weeks  

How to Do It: Car 

Highlights of the Trip

San francisco.

San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge

When it comes to San Francisco , I like to veer a bit off the beaten path here and spend a couple of days exploring the street art in the Mission District, epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge from the Presidio (a former military post that’s now a national park) and take an urban hike through the sprawling Golden Gate Park. 

Save room for incredible cuisine at the best neighbourhood joint in SF – Nopa . 

Suggested Stay: Argonaut Hotel

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-By-The-Sea

Hit up white sand beaches, secret gardens, and charming boutique shops in this vibrant coastal city just before the famous Big Sur . It’s a perfect jump-off point for exploring the epic coastal hikes in Big Sur and Point Lobos .

Suggested Stay: Carmel Bay View Inn

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Mission

I love the laid-back vibes, excellent beaches, and surprisingly vibrant downtown in Santa Barbara . Check out Sama Sama for excellent Southeast Asian cuisine in a youthful, trendy setting on your 10-day trip out west. 

Suggested Stay: Kimpton Canary Hotel

Los Angeles

Los Angeles

The Hollywood Hills, Downtown LA, Santa Monica Pier – whichever part of sprawling Los Angeles in SoCal you decide to stay in, you’ll love every minute of your star-studded stay. 

Be sure to eat all the street tacos you can, shop til you drop, and visit the iconic Venice Beach for the best people-watching and chill California vibes. 

Suggested Stay:   Mama Shelter Hollywood  

San Diego

Spend a chunk of your California itinerary in San Diego , where you can enjoy a day in the sprawling open space of Balboa Park, hit up Old Town for some handmade tortillas and fiery salsa, and end your evening in the Gaslamp Quarter or North Park for craft beer and nightlife. 

Don’t forget to check out Coronado, Pacific Beach, and Mission Beach for the best fun in the sun.

Suggested Stay: Hotel Indigo

Best of the USA

Zion National Park - Pa'Rus Trail Sunset

How can you see everything the USA has to offer in 1 month? I’m not going to lie. You won’t. But you can definitely get a feel for how different each region is with this round-the-map trip throughout the United States. Start in NYC (because why not?) before moving your way west and discovering the Great Plains, Wild West, and American South. Get ready for some of the best cuisine you’ll have anywhere and everywhere, along with some epic hiking, brilliant beaches, and plenty of nightlife on this 1-month USA itinerary.

You’ll need to take a few flights on this journey to fit everything in but plan to hire a car for the national parks portion of this United States trip.

Route Summary 

New York City >> Chicago >> Yellowstone >> Utah’s Mighty Five >> Grand Canyon >> Las Vegas >> Los Angeles >> Phoenix >> New Orleans >> Miami

Distance: 6,200 miles (10,000 km) 

Length of Trip: 1 Month 

How to Do It: Plane and Car 

New York City

New York- Brooklyn Bridge

Start your trip off in the most iconic city in the United States, New York City. If you’ve never been, you’ll want to check out the bright lights of Times Square, shop along Fifth Avenue, and mosey through Central Park. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and shop in Williamsburg before grabbing a slice at Best Pizza.

Suggested Stay: The Wallace Hotel  

Chicago, IL shutterstock_1823564576

Add a stop to this great Midwest city located on one of the iconic Great Lakes – Lake Michigan. Chicago is a great place to shop along The Magnificent Mile, watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, and try a local dish like Italian Beef or Chicago-style hot dogs.

Suggested Stay: Thompson Hotel

Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park

Next up is one of America’s great national parks – Yellowstone. Check out the roaming bison, sky-high geysers, and epic hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park.

Suggested Stay: Elk Country Inn

Utah’s Mighty Five

Sunset Point Bryce Canyon National Park

For the most adventurous travellers, you can fit in all of Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks. But if you’re short on time, you can hit Arches National Park before visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon for natural bridges, sandstone and red rock formations and epic stargazing.

Suggested Stay: The Advenire

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon - South Rim Trail Monument Creek Vista

Want to know my favourite national park in the US? Grand Canyon. Visit the massive canyon along the Colorado River and take a hike around the South Rim Trail for the most stunning views. 

If you want a more challenging hike and have the time, Bright Angel allows you to hike into the canyon, but it’s a gnarly trek with 5,000+ miles of elevation change and can be extremely hot. 

Suggested Stay: El Tovar

Visiting the Grand Canyon? Here’s What You Shouldn’t Miss

Las Vegas Nevada

Now that you’ve had some time in the best national parks in the USA, it’s time to party. Whether you head to the luxury resorts and world-class entertainment along the Las Vegas Strip or want to explore hipster coffee shops and historic hotels Downtown, Las Vegas is a winner on your USA itinerary.

Suggested Stay: Circa Resort & Casino

Sunset Strip Los Angeles

Head to the Hollywood Hills and bask in the California sun, with a few days in one of the best cities along the West Coast. Los Angeles offers great shopping in areas like Beverly Hills and pristine beaches in Malibu and Santa Monica. 

The (already stellar) food scene has taken off in the past few years, so try local favourites like the 2-Michelin-starred Mélisse Restaurant.

Suggested Stay: The Hoxton, Downtown LA

Phoenix-Arizona

You can’t leave the American West without stopping by Phoenix for some desert-chic vibes in the Valley of the Sun. I found some seriously cool bars and restaurants last time I was there. 

Check out the Southwestern flavours at Valentine before hiking at Camelback Mountain and seeing a show at the historic Orpheum Theatre.

Suggested Stay: Rise Uptown

New Orleans

New Orleans

Ready to enjoy the best food in the USA? Head to The Big Easy to enjoy heaping plates of jambalaya, the rich and tangy flavours of muffulettas, and, of course, a plate of the famous fried dessert treat, beignets. 

Spend some time people-watching in the French Quarter and catch a jazz show at Palm Court Jazz Cafe for the perfect New Orleans trip.

Suggested Stay: The Pontchartrain Hotel

Miami

Want to find the best beaches in the USA? Head to Miami Beach in Miami to explore the white sands, and warm waters in this vibrant Florida city. When you’re ready to explore the city, check out the street art at Wynwood Walls and the vibrant bar scene in South Beach.

Suggested Stay: Esme Miami Beach

West Coast Road Trip

Music Trail

Saguaro National Park Tucson

Rock and roll, the blues, country, R&B, jazz… you get the picture. Visiting America’s South is full of rich history and culture dating back centuries – and music is a big part of that history. 

You can explore some of the big cities in the South and watch a show at storied theatres, visit iconic recording studios, and maybe catch an impromptu show in a park (check the Musician’s Corner Calendar). Save your appetite, the food in the American South is ridiculously good. Staples like fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and bread pudding show up often and are usually incredible. 

If you have more time, make stops in small towns along the way, like Tupelo, Mississippi (the birthplace of Elvis), or Jackson, Tennessee, for Sun Studio and the Rock-a-Billy Hall of Fame.

Nashville >>  Memphis >> Clarksdale >> Jackson >> New Orleans

Distance:  630 miles (1015 km) 

Length of Trip: 1 Week

Nashville, Tennessee

Start your one-week vacation in the USA in Nashville. If you’re a country music fan, you can mosey over to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum for a history lesson before seeing a live show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry .

Suggested Stay: The Hutton Hotel

Memphis 

Memphis, Tennessee

Is there a more iconic rock and roll studio in the USA than Sun Studio? For $15, you can tour the “Birthplace of Rock & Roll,” where Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash recorded many of their hit songs. 

If you’re not content as a spectator, book a recording session at the world-famous studio. And of course, no music tour of the South is complete without a visit to Graceland. 

Suggested Stay: The Guest House at Graceland

Clarksdale, USA

When I think of music in the American South, the Blues immediately come to mind. Clarksdale is home to this unforgettable genre of music, and legends like Muddy Waters got their start right here. The history is very much alive in places like Ground Zero Blues Club and the Delta Blues Museum, where you can learn all about the artists, their stories, and songs.

Suggested Stay: Travelers Hotel

Jackson, MS

Visit the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum to learn more about slavery, the Jim Crow laws, and the heroes who fought for equal rights and freedom in the American South. 

Suggested Stay: Fairview Inn

New Orleans

End your 1-week USA itinerary in New Orleans. The home of Jazz music, New Orleans features dozens of excellent jazz clubs. I like the idea of stopping by Sweet Loraine’s, where you can check out some of the best jazz music and grab a Po Boy sandwich for a taste of The Big Easy.

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Southwest National Parks 

Queen's Garden Trail Hike Bryce Canyon

You’re getting the best of the American Southwest with this epic 14-day USA itinerary. Buckle up; this road trip sets you off from Salt Lake City through Utah’s Mighty Five before exploring the deserts and canyons in Arizona and New Mexico . I love this as an idea for a USA itinerary because you learn more about indigenous history and culture and sample delicious flavours of the Southwest. And, of course, you get to tick the most famous national park in the USA – the Grand Canyon .

Arches >> Canyonlands >> Bryce >> Zion >> Grand Canyon >> Saguaro >> White Sands

Distance:  1,3712 miles (2208 km) 

Length of Trip: 2 weeks 

Moab (Arches and Canyonlands)

Arches National Park

Between your visits to two of Utah’s Mighty Five, you can bed down in Moab, where you’ll find plenty to do around town. Of course, most of your time here will be spent exploring natural bridges at Arches and hiking around the vast trail system in underrated Canyonlands.

Suggested Stay: Red Cliffs Lodge

St. George (Zion and Bryce Canyon)

Zion National Park - Court of the Patriarchs Hike

Cross off another two of Utah’s Mighty Five when you stay in St. George. Try epic hikes like Angel’s Landing in Zion and explore the hoodoos and rock formations at Bryce Canyon . Visit Bryce Canyon on your way to St. George and return to Zion the next day.

Grand Canyon - South Rim Trail Monument Creek Vista

The Grand Canyon is over 1,900 square miles of beautiful red-rock canyons along the Colorado River, and visiting Arizona is the most popular way to see it. 

I think hitting the South Rim along Desert View Drive is the perfect way to see the sweeping canyons from above along several different viewpoints.  

Suggested Stay: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon  

Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park

Next up on your trip around America’s Southwest is Saguaro National Park . 

Where else can you see cacti the size of redwoods? Ok, they might not be that tall, but the candelabra-shaped thorned beauties stretch over 40 feet high, and a hike along King Canyon or joy ride along Bajada Loop Drive are the perfect ways to take in the beauty of the desert.

Suggested Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain

White Sands National Park 

White Sands National Park Tucson

Last but not least, you’ll want to head to White Sands National Park for one of the most unique landscapes you’ll see anywhere on your USA itinerary. Take the 13-mile Dune’s Drive loop to bask in the rolling snow-white sand dunes that stretch as far as you can see. 

Suggested Stay: Home2 Suites

East Coast Itinerary

New York- View from Empire State Building

Planning a USA East Coast Itinerary over 2 weeks? Check out this non-stop tour of the iconic cities and hidden gems along the Northeast United States. 

One thing I love about this trip is that it’s the rare USA itinerary in 2 weeks where you can rely on trains and public transportation to get to most destinations. 

Along the way, you’ll see the nation’s capital, the Big Apple, and the scenic coastline of Maine. You’ll want to hire a car for the final stretch, but the drive is gorgeous – especially if you’re lucky enough to see the trees change colours in Autumn. 

Washington DC  >> Annapolis >> Baltimore >> New York City >> Hartford >> Boston >> Portland

Distance:  600 miles (1,000 km) 

Length of Trip: 1 Week 

How to Do It: Train and Car

Washington DC

Cherry Blossom Season

You can’t plan a US travel itinerary over two weeks on the East Coast and not hit the nation’s capital. 

The Washington Monument and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial makes the National Mall well worth a visit, but underrated gems like Blind Whino – where local artists collaborate and host weekly live events are a fun way to experience DC like a local. 

Suggested Stay: The Normandy Hotel

Annapolis

If you want the chance to truly chill out during your 2 weeks in the USA, there are plenty of charming towns – especially in the Northeast. Annapolis is one of my favourites, and the boutique hotels, seafood restaurants, and cobbled streets will transport you to another time. 

Suggested Stay: Historic Inns of Annapolis

Baltimore

Catch a baseball game at Camden Yards, eat as much blue crab as you can in one sitting, and visit the Civil War landmark Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine for a piece of American history. 

Suggested Stay: Ulysses

New York City 

High Line

The food, the culture, the museums…NYC is the city you need to pencil into any United States itinerary. I love Manhattan, and it’s probably the most walkable city anywhere in the USA. Checking out the East Village for the best restaurants and bars, visiting Central Park or The High Line when you need a bit of fresh air, and exploring the bustling urban marketplace, Chelsea Market , are a few things you won’t want to miss. 

Suggested Stay: The Wallace Hotel

Hartford, Connecticut

The small city of Hartford, Connecticut, is the perfect stop on your USA itinerary, with some standout landmarks like Mark Twain’s former residence, the beautiful gardens at Elizabeth Park Conservancy, and the large collection of European and American artwork at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art .

Suggested Stay: The Goodwin

Boston, Massachusetts

Take the train up to Boston and explore the world-class universities like Harvard, dine on some fresh seafood, and grab a New England-style IPA at Trillium Brewery, one of the best craft beer spots you’ll find on your USA itinerary.

Suggested Stay: The Revolution Hotel

Portland Maine

Visit this charming New England town and photograph the iconic lighthouses, eat freshly caught lobster at Portland Lobster Company , and take a whale-watching tour if you’re around in May or June.

Suggested Stay: Portland Harbor Hotel

California Itinerary 

Castro District Rainbow Crosswalk Intersection - San Francisco, California, USA

Rent a nice set of wheels for this 21 day USA itinerary, you’re going to rack up more than a few miles. Start off in San Diego and drive your way up the coast, stopping by some of my favourite locations along the way. Get your hike on in the Santa Monica Mountains before exploring charming towns like Pismo Beach and Sausalito on your drive north. 

But you’ll also see everything California offers away from the Pacific Ocean, like Yosemite National Park , Lake Tahoe, and Wine Country. Top Tip: You can always plan a great 1 week trip in the US in California, so feel free to just tackle part of this itinerary.

San Diego >> Santa Monica  >> Pismo Beach >> Sausalito >> Sonoma County >> Lake Tahoe >> Yosemite

Distance:  1,000 miles (1,610 km) 

Length of Trip: 3 weeks 

Mission Beach San Diego

Start off in San Diego , where you can hit up the sandy shores of Coronado and Pacific Beach before an evening out exploring bars and restaurants in Hillcrest or Downtown San Diego.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica Pier

Before you head to some of the best hikes in Southern California , explore Santa Monica’s beaches and nightlife. I love hanging out at the Santa Monica Pier and riding the Ferris Wheel by the beach before strolling through the shops and restaurants on the lively 3rd Street Promenade.

Suggested Stay: Shutters on the Beach

Pismo Beach

Pismo beach California

Once you reach Pismo Beach , you’ll fall in love with the small-town beach vibes in this Central California coastal gem. I don’t blame you if you want to just hang out at the state beach and pier, but you can also explore wineries in nearby Paso Robles, check out a monarch butterfly grove, or relax at Avila Hot Springs. Your call.

Suggested Stay: The Cliffs Hotel and Spa

Sausalito

Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco is the charming coastal village of Sausalito. Explore the artsy town full of charming boutiques before digging into a seafood lunch at Scoma’s. You can’t visit Marin without checking out the redwoods, so reserve a spot for hiking in Muir Woods National Monument.

Suggested Stay: Cavallo Point

Sonoma County

Sonoma County, California, USA

You can’t explore Nor Cal without making a stop for wine tasting in Sonoma County. Santa Rosa is a great home base to explore amazing wineries – Patz & Hall and Gundlach Bundschu Winery are two of my favourites. Russian River Brewing Company is a great option if you’ve had enough wine tasting.

Suggested Stay: Vintners Resort

Lake Tahoe 

Where else can you paddle out in crystal clear waters overlooking snow-capped mountains on a sunny day in California? Not many places sum up a grand Alpine Lake experience quite like Tahoe.

Suggested Stay: Edgewood Tahoe Resort

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley

No trip to Northern California is complete without a visit to Yosemite . Make your way into the valley, park, and look up in awe at Half Dome, El Capitan, and the iconic Yosemite Falls.

Suggested Stay: The Ahwahnee Hotel

USA Itinerary: Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip 

  • Weather can play an enormous role in your USA itinerary. Check the forecast before you leave, and pack for all seasons if you’re planning a longer itinerary in any season but summer.
  • Summers get extremely hot in the USA. Bring lots of suntan lotion, lightweight clothing, and wide-brimmed hats. 
  • There are a lot of hotel options in the USA, but the most popular locations fill up fast on the weekends and in the summer. Book ahead for the best rates and the most options. 
  • If you’re visiting from outside the USA, apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization online well ahead of your holiday. 

Read All USA Country Guides

Sunset La Jolla San Diego

Add these to Your USA Itinerary

  • 55 Things You Should Have on Your USA Bucket List  
  • Ridin’ Along the West Coast – A Step by Step Itinerary  
  • The Ultimate California Road Trip

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USA Travel Itineraries

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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40 great day trips near philadelphia, art, history and the great outdoors — all in philly’s backyard....

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Historic homes, fascinating museums, gorgeous gardens, shopping havens and sprawling parks await visitors venturing outside the city into Philadelphia’s Countryside for an exciting (or relaxing) day trip.

Towns and boroughs throughout Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties offer adventures for nature lovers, art appreciators and history buffs, as well as some of the best shopping on the East Coast.

Historic sites like Valley Forge National Historical Park and Brandywine Battlefield take visitors back to the days of the Revolutionary War. Outdoor adventures await at preserves and parks like John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and Ringing Rocks Park . The expertly landscaped Chanticleer and Longwood Gardens delight guests with themed gardens and bountiful floral displays. And Elmwood Park Zoo and Sesame Place entertain kids with furry friends. Wrap it all up with some retail therapy at shopping destinations like Peddler’s Village and Suburban Square .

Check out our guide to 40 of Greater Philadelphia’s most awesome attractions for fun day trips — all located within a one-hour drive of Center City Philadelphia .

Brandywine Museum of Art and The N.C. Wyeth House & Studio

Brandywine River Museum of Art interior

The grounds are as breathtaking as the art at the bucolic Brandywine Museum of Art , housed in a renovated 1864 gristmill surrounded by wildflower gardens and the meandering Brandywine River. Inside, works by Andrew Wyeth sit beside other beautifully detailed illustrations, paintings and installations along with permanent and rotating exhibitions. Cross the road to visit the N.C. Wyeth House & Studio , the 1922 family home and workspace of Andrew’s father, a National Historic Landmark with Colonial Revival architecture, country furnishings, illustration tools, and many Wyeth relics including a birch-bark canoe and a firearm collection.

Where: Brandywine Museum of Art and The N.C. Wyeth House & Studio, 1 Hoffmans Mill Road, Chadds Ford

Fonthill Castle

People outside of Fonthill Castle

Former home to archeologist, anthropologist and ceramist Henry Chapman Mercer, Fonthill Castle is a 115-year-old museum displaying Mercer’s massive collection of prints, books and handcrafted ceramic tiles produced at his historic Tile Works (see above). The collection — including a 2,000-year-old whale oil lamp and cuneiform tablets dating back four millennia — is spread among mansion’s 44 rooms and 32 stairwells. As impressive as the relics, the building features 200 windows, 23 chimneys, and a bevy of turrets and balconies (plus 11 bathrooms!). The castle hosts year-round programming, including summer festivals, fall ghost tours and foodie events.

Where: Fonthill Castle, 525 E. Court Street, Doylestown

King of Prussia, a Simon Property Mall

A family walks through King of Prussia mall pointing at stores and holding colorful shopping bands.

With over 450 stores and at nearly 3 million square feet, King of Prussia, a Simon Property Mall is the third-largest in America and the premier shopping destination on the East Coast. Together, The Court, The Plaza and The Pavilion welcome around 20 million visitors each year to anchor stores like Nordstrom; shops like Tiffany & Co., Sur La Table, Givenchy and Versace; and 17 dining options for on-the-go eats or sit-down relaxing. Get there via SEPTA’s M line (formerly the Norristown High Speed Line) or grab one of the center’s 13,000 parking spaces.

Where: King of Prussia, a Simon Property Mall, 160 N. Gulph Road, King of Prussia

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia

Three kids build and play with Legos at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia.

Are you a LEGO maniac? Then head to the 33,000-square-foot LEGOLAND Discovery Center at Montgomery County’s Plymouth Meeting Mall. Designed for kids 3 to 10, the indoor LEGO playground offers a dozen LEGO-themed rides and attractions (including the Imagination Express and Great LEGO Race Virtual Reality Experience), a 4D cinema, create-your-own build stations, LEGO workshops with master builders and the LEGO Ninjago Training Camp — plus a themed café and LEGO store. Don’t miss Miniland, with huge miniature recreations of Philly’s most iconic buildings and landmarks created from over 1 million LEGO bricks.

Where: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia, 500 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting

Linvilla Orchards

Pumpkins and kids at Linvilla Orchards

One of the last working farms in Delaware County , the year-round fun of Linvilla Orchards offers pick-your-own apples, peaches, berries, corn and more, plus fun-filled festivals and educational programs built around them. Visitors can stop by the open-daily, always-fresh farmers market, or enjoy seasonal events and activities like fall’s Pumpkinland for hayrides and pumpkin carving and Christmas Around the Farm’s chop-down-your-own Christmas tree and a holiday gift market.

Where: Linvilla Orchards, 137 W. Knowlton Road, Media

Longwood Gardens

At over a thousand acres, Longwood Gardens is Philly’s largest and arguably most famous botanical garden, named No. 1 on Fodor’s list of Best Botanical Gardens Across the United States . Pierre du Pont’s tranquil horticultural oasis showcases nearly 10,000 varieties among its indoor and outdoor grounds. Guests can enjoy permanent exhibits like the Green Wall, Orchid House and Hillside Garden, as well as the seasonal Illuminated Fountain Performances (color-lighted musical dancing water shows at the center of a magnificent five-acre fountain garden) and elaborate installations like the late-winter Orchid Extravaganza, Chrysanthemum Festival and A Longwood Christmas .

Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square

Peddler's Village

Popular Lahaska shopping haven Peddler’s Village welcomes more than 1.6 million visitors a year to enjoy its 70-plus charming colonial-style independent boutiques, specialty shops, wineries and restaurants ringing the storybook-like landscaped grounds connected by winding brick pathways. While browsing through vintage apparel, handmade jewelry, and local art and craft stores, take a moment to stop by the flowing fountains, Zen gardens and historic carousel, and check the village’s calendar for annual festivals celebrating strawberries, blueberries, apples, scarecrows, gingerbread houses and other seasonal events.

Where: Peddler's Village, 2400 Street Road, New Hope

Ridley Creek State Park and Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation

Three people walk through the trees of Ridley Creek State Park with a dog.

Delaware County’s Ridley Creek State Park is a 2,600-acre oasis of wooded trails and rolling hills perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking and horseback riding trails, a creek stocked with trout, park space for archery and deer hunting, and picnic areas. History buffs can explore the former workers’ cottages, mill dam and historic buildings in the 18th-century milling village known as Sycamore Mills and visit the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation , the 112-acre Pratt family farm that operated from 1720 to 1820 that’s now a living history site.

Where: Ridley Creek State Park and Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media

Sesame Place

We’ll tell you how to get, how to get to Sesame Place , the only Sesame Street -themed amusement park east of California. Fans can meet their furry friends like Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Elmo and many more lovable costumed characters along with experiencing kid-level thrills on 35 rides and water attractions. The 14-acre park also features carnival games, plenty of refreshments and concessions, daily (and nightly) parades, and special festivities like character birthdays and the popular A Very Furry Christmas celebration. Sesame Place is open seasonally from spring through the holiday season.

Where: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

Valley Forge National Historical Park

People looking at huts at Valley Forge National Historical Park

The difficult 1777-1778 winter the Continental Army spent at at Valley Forge went down as one of the Revolutionary War’s most trying periods. Today, Valley Forge National Historical Park honors those who encamped here with monuments, statues and buildings throughout the grounds, along with replicated huts, General Washington’s original headquarters, the National Memorial Arch , and a recently renovated visitor center that features artifacts and a lifesize statue of the future first President. The 3,500-acre park also includes scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and miles of recreational trails where runners and cyclists can cruise the park.

Where: Valley Forge National Historical Park, 1400 N. Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia

Historical Sites

Brandywine battlefield park.

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What is now known as Brandywine Battlefield Park was the site of the longest single-day battle for George Washington and his Continental Army in the entire Revolutionary War. Stop by the visitor venter to explore the on-site museum and exhibition, take a self-guided tour or explore two onsite historic homes : the Benjamin Ring House, a reconstruction of the home that Washington used as battlefield headquarters, and the Gideon Gilpin House where the Marquis de Lafayette stayed before the battle, complete with an 18th-century cookware collection.

Where: Brandywine Battlefield Park, 1491 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford

Glencairn Museum and Bryn Athyn Historic District

The Glencairn Museum in Montgomery County ’s Bryn Athyn Historic District is one of the nation’s largest museums dedicated to religious art and history, containing nearly 8,000 works from across ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, medieval Europe and Asia, early Islamic and Indigenous nations, and more. The gallery also features a large collection of Nativity art, including stained-glass windows, sculptures, manuscripts and paintings. Also in the historic district: the 26,000-square-foot Gilded Age-era Cairnwood Estate historic home and gardens, as well as the picturesque Early Gothic-style Swedenborgian Bryn Athyn Cathedral .

Where: Glencairn Museum and Bryn Athyn Historic District, 1005 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn

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Cairnwood Estate, 1005 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn

Bryn Athyn Cathedral, 900 Cathedral Road, Bryn Athyn

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Tucked into the expanse of French Creek State Park in rural Chester County , historic Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is home to 14 now-restored structures that were part of a colonial-era iron-producing village that relied on free labor and the work of enslaved people. Nature lovers enjoy birding and photography opportunities, and visitors can participate in demonstrations of crafts, agriculture and other 19th-century activities.

Where: Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, 2 Mark Bird Lane, Elverson

Pearl S. Buck International

Bucks County ’s Pearl S. Buck International — the early 18th-century Perkasie estate and farmhouse of the Nobel Prize-winning author — is home to a museum featuring a plethora of The Good Earth writer’s personal belongings on display, including the typewriter she used to pen the classic historical fiction novel. Visitors to the site, often referred to as Green Hill Farms, can tour her former home, the stunning gardens and Buck’s nearby gravesite.

Where: Pearl S. Buck International, 520 Dublin Road, Perkasie

Washington Crossing Historic Park

Both a preserved historic site and nature area, Washington Crossing Historic Park offers visitors a chance to see where General George Washington and his troops covertly crossed the Delaware River in the dark of Christmas night 1776 on their way to key victories at Trenton and Princeton. The park, open daily, features a bevy of historic sites including Thompson-Neely House & Grist Mill and Bowman’s Hill Tower plus a visitor center, walking paths, picnic pavilions, fishing areas and boat launches. Come back Christmas Day to view the annual reenactment of the famous crossing.

Where: Washington Crossing Historic Park, 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing

Delaware Canal State Park

A 60-mile linear park along the Delaware River from Easton to Bristol, Delaware Canal State Park calls to joggers and cyclists, as well as nature enthusiasts who enjoy the wildlife that thrives along the river shoreline and nearly a dozen river islands. There’s plenty of fun on the water, too, as the river and canal the path follows offer ample opportunities for fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

Where: Multiple points of entry including 603 Jefferson Avenue, Bristol

John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

Established in 1972, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum is a 1,000-acre park just outside Philadelphia International Airport built to protect the largest freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania. The refuge, which lies mostly in Delaware County , is an urban enclave for outdoor recreation featuring 10 miles of low-lying trails for hiking and biking and four-and-a-half miles of tidal creek and boat ramps for canoeing, kayaking and fishing access. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting the over 300 varieties of resident and migratory birds, rare plants and numerous land animals, including several endangered species.

Where: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard

Nockamixon State Park

Southeastern Pennsylvania’s largest lake — located inside the 5,000-acre Nockamixon State Park — is a great spot for boaters and fishers of all types. Visitors can find more than 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, picnic sites, and four public launching areas for boats. Park rentals include motorboats, paddleboats and canoes, and the seven-mile-long Lake Nockamixon welcomes fishers of bass, pickerel, catfish and beyond.

Where: Nockamixon State Park, 1542 Mountain View Drive, Quakertown

Ringing Rocks County Park

Bring your own hammer (no joke!) to Ringing Rocks Park , a seven-acre field of hulking round stones that respond to strategic whacks and thumps with the sound of ringing bells. Climb onto the field and start banging away on the primordial igneous diabase boulders to experience an unexpected and unforgettable melodic geological sound created by a combination of melting permafrost, weathering and rock shape. Once through the boulder field, visitors can continue on into the 123-acre park, a dense forest for hikers, bikers and picnickers which also features High Falls, Bucks County ’s highest waterfall.

Where: Ringing Rocks County Park, 1924 Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy

Art Museums

George nakashima woodworkers.

The Nakashima family incorporates its samurai roots, as well as experiences in construction and art, to its museum-like George Nakashima Woodworkers furniture studio. The grounds double as the family’s private residence, and visitors are welcome by appointment into the showroom, finishing room, chair shop and Conoid Studio. The hand-crafted wood pieces are designed with art and utility in mind.

Where: George Nakashima Woodworkers, 1847 Aquetong Road, New Hope

James A. Michener Art Museum

Visitors walk through the gallery at the Michener Art Museum.

Pennsylvania impressionist paintings take center stage at the James A. Michener Art Museum , named for the Pulitzer Prize-awarded and Doylestown native writer of classics like Centennial , The Source , Chesapeake and the novel that inspired the Broadway musical South Pacific . The museum, built from a historic 19th-century prison, also features other historical and contemporary works, photography exhibits, a reading room inspired by the sleek woodwork of nearby furniture maker George Nakashima Woodworkers (see above), an outdoor sculpture garden and a terrace built in the original prison yard.

Where: James A. Michener Art Museum, 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove

A blue bird rests on a branch with pink blossoms at John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove outside Philadelphia

Opened in 2019, the immersive John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove museum and nature facility occupies the site of famed ornithologist and environmentalist John James Audubon’s historic 18th-century home. Visitors can explore galleries and exhibits on conservation and art, an outdoor birdwatching area and an interactive exhibit that allows individuals to experience the earliest stages of a bird’s life from egg to first flight. The center rests beside the existing historic house, barn and nature trails located on the farm where an 18-year-old Audubon lived when he first arrived in America in 1803.

Where: John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, 1201 Pawlings Road, Audubon

The TileWorks

Moravian Pottery and Tile Works

Doylestown’s “working history” TileWorks museum (formerly known as Moravian Pottery and TileWorks) is a National Historic Landmark that continues to create handmade tiles in a manner similar to the method established at founder and ceramicist Henry Chapman Mercer’s workshop that produced hand-crafted ceramic tiles during the American Arts & Crafts Movement of the late 19th and early 20th century. Visitors can tour the site to see original displays and get a glimpse of the production process. Pair a visit with stops at the artist’s Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle (see below).

Where: The TileWorks, 130 E. Swamp Road, Doylestown

Wharton Esherick Museum

The Wharton Esherick Museum in the woods of Chester County

Deep in the Chester County woods and atop a mountain adjacent to Valley Forge National Historic Park lived wood sculptor Wharton Esherick, “Dean of American Craftsmen,” whose work can be seen at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Upon his death in 1970, his magnificent hand-built, 12-acre rural modernist home, farmhouse and studio was turned into the Wharton Esherick Museum , an immersive, interactive National Historic Landmark for Architecture featuring 200 of his pieces including works made in collaboration with Philadelphia architect Louis Kahn. Guided tours are available when scheduled in advance.

Where: Wharton Esherick Museum, 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern

Cultural Museums

American helicopter museum & education center.

Nearly three dozen helicopters, autogiros, convertiplanes and other spiral wing aircraft are on display at the American Helicopter Museum & Education Center . The nation’s premier rotary flight aviation museum features displays including a model helicopter room with over 400 pieces and an exhibit dedicated to the Whirly-Girls , a pioneering group of women helicopter pilots. Several times a year, guests of all ages have a chance to ride in a helicopter for a bird’s-eye-view of the countryside. If you own your own helicopter (!), you can arrive in rotary style utilizing the adjacent helipad, ramp and runway.

Where: American Helicopter Museum & Education Center, 1220 American Boulevard, West Chester

American Treasure Tour Museum

The American Treasure Tour in Oaks is the region’s kitschiest museum. The 100,000-square-foot collection features over 1 million pieces of American pop culture memorabilia including neon road signs, self-playing orchestras, life-sized cartoon characters, decades of movie posters, herds of stuffed animals and fleets of antique autos … all accessed via an indoor electric tram. The museum is part of The Factory in Oaks complex, which includes Arnold’s Family Fun Center (think go-karts, laser tag, bumper cars and the like), a trampoline park, a rock climbing gym, a bowling center and more.

Where: American Treasure Tour Museum, One American Treasure Way, Oaks

Mercer Museum

Old wagons, boats and other pre-mechanical materials fill the Mercer Museum

The towering castle that houses the Mercer Museum is full of themed rooms dedicated to the tools and crafts of American life before mechanization. Archaeologist, collector and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer founded the museum in 1916 to display his incredible 40,000-piece collection of pre-industrial tools, early manual technologies and crafts related to American life before mechanization including a whaling boat and a Conestoga wagon. Permanent exhibits include the kid-oriented and interactive Animals on the Loose gallery , as well as shoe- and hat-making stations.

Where: Mercer Museum, 84 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

Pennsbury Manor

Fall foliage at Pennsbury Manor

The statue of William Penn atop Philadelphia’s City Hall gazes down toward the city founder’s landing site at Penn Treaty Park . But it was 22 miles north and 20 years later where Penn resided at the turn of the 18th century in his bucolic Pennsbury Manor country estate on the Delaware River he built for his Quaker family. Visitors to the manor, reconstructed in 1939 and the only museum dedicated to Penn, can check out period furnishings, historical objects, an award-winning exhibit about Penn and his legacy, plus hands-on activities and open hearth cooking demos.

Where: Pennsbury Manor, 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville

Botanical Gardens

Bowman’s hill wildflower preserve.

A pond at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve

Head to Bucks County’s historic Pidcock Creek Valley to unwind among 134 acres of 2,000 native plant species and the wildlife that depend on them. Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve ’s grounds span forests, a meadow, hillsides, a creek, two ponds and extensive wetlands. The preserve also offers varied programming for children and adults , including specialty walks like “mornings in the meadow” and forest bathing. Pro tip: View the preserve from above atop the nearby 12-story-tall Bowman’s Hill Tower .

Where: Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, 1635 River Road, New Hope

Chanticleer

People exploring the grounds of Chanticleer.

The gardeners at 35-acre Chanticleer pleasure botanical garden are also artists, incorporating wood, metal and stone into the lush landscape. The exquisite locale on the grounds of the century-old Rosengarten manor displays over 5,000 plants across a dozen collections from perennials to agricultural crops, tended by in-house landscape artists who design their own installations. Make time for the Teacup Garden, brimming with tropical plants carefully arranged to create a colorful, sensory experience, and the Minder Ruin Garden, a folly built on the main cottage’s foundation resembling ancient ruins overtaken by the elements, including a 24-foot sarcophagus-shaped reflecting pool.

Where: Chanticleer, 786 Church Road, Wayne

Tyler Arboretum

Fall foliage at Tyler Arbroetum

The 650 acres of Tyler Arboretum ’s woodlands, meadows and flora are part of a property that English Quaker Thomas Minshall purchased from William Penn in 1681. With 17 miles of trails, 80-foot-tall trees and delicate wildflowers, it’s one of the region’s oldest and largest public gardens. Adventurers relish solving the seven-ringed Meadow Maze labyrinth, children learn about nature at Discovery Stations, those with decreased vision enjoy the aromatic Fragrant Garden (one of the first designed primarily for people who are blind) and history-lovers can tour several sites on the National Register of Historic Places.

Where: Tyler Arboretum, 515 Painter Road, Media

Family Attractions

Elmwood park zoo.

At the 16-acre Elmwood Park Zoo , guests can meet over 100 species, including bison, zebras, jaguars, red pandas, otters and more — including Liana the two-toed sloth, Penny the American alligator and Noah the bald eagle, the mascot of the Philadelphia Eagles. Families can pet the goats, sheep and donkeys in the barn, feed the giant giraffes (ticket required), ride the zoo-themed carousel or zip line 50 feet above the grounds. Adults can picnic with BYO snacks or grab a craft beer at the Zoo Brew Bar & Beer Garden.

Where: Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Boulevard, Norristown

Herr’s Snack Factory Tour

Children on Herr's Factory Tour with Herr's mascot, Chipper.

You can make Herr’s yours, as the slogan goes, with the tasty Herr’s Snack Factory Tour , a guided firsthand learning experience with a behind-the-scenes look at the production floor and factory warehouse where Herr’s Foods’ beloved pretzels, tortillas, popcorn, cheese curls and potato chips are created and packaged. The one-hour tour also includes fresh warm samples, a visit to the gallery in the gift shop, lunch at Chipper’s Café and a myriad of little-known snack facts. Tours run Monday through Wednesday for both folks with reservations and walk-ins.

Where: Herr’s Snack Factory Tour, 271 Old Baltimore Pike, Nottingham

New Hope Railroad

Passengers aboard the 150-year-old New Hope Railroad can enjoy narrated train tours of scenic Bucks County on classic rail cars pulled by either a 1925 steam locomotive or one of two diesel engines that date back to the early 1960s. Coast through the county’s hills and valleys past sprawling farms, historic bridges and other countryside features on one of several trips, including the 45-minute standard tour, 21-plus excursions for wine and cocktail lovers, or one of the seasonal holiday trains from Valentine’s to Christmas.

Where: New Hope Railroad, 32 W. Bridge Street, New Hope

Baldwin’s Book Barn

First established in Delaware in 1934, Baldwin’s Book Barn has been offering used, rare, and fine books along with hundreds of manuscripts, maps and prints at the more “recent” West Chester location since 1946. The friendly-family bookstore is located inside a 200-year-old five-story stone barn housing a collection of over 300,000 items packed into every corner, cranny and hideaway. Named one of the World’s Most Beloved Independent Bookstores by Architectural Digest , everything in the bookshop is available for purchase or for leafing through while lounging in a cozy nook or discussing around the wood-burning stove.

Where: Baldwin's Book Barn, 865 Lenape Road, West Chester

Philadelphia Premium Outlets

Philadelphia Premium Outlets

Home to more than 135 designer and brand-name factory stores from Coach and Kate Spade to Nike and Swarovski, outdoor shopping plaza Philadelphia Premium Outlets offers 553,000 square feet of deals as big as 70% — all just 35 miles outside of Center City . When all those discounts make you hungry, grab lunch at one of a half-dozen restaurants or the convenient food court — with plenty of outside seating during warmer months.

Where: Philadelphia Premium Outlets, 18 W. Lightcap Road, Pottstown

Suburban Square

Pedestrian-friendly Suburban Square in Ardmore is an upscale outdoor shopping plaza that serves as one of the Main Line’s premier retail and dining destinations. Among the nation’s oldest planned shopping centers (and the first with a department store), the square dates back to the late 1920s. Brands like Apple and Free People have set up here, and visitors can also find affordable silver and gemstones at Dandelion, work up a sweat at SoulCycle, and grab a meal at eateries like Lola’s Garden, DanDan or Sweetgreen. The six-square-block development — which is adjacent to Amtrak and SEPTA’s Ardmore Station — also features a daily farmers market.

Where: Suburban Square, 602 Coulter Avenue, Ardmore

Performing Arts

Bucks county playhouse.

Take in a show at historic Bucks County Playhouse (founded 1751), a theater on the Delaware River in New Hope that presents both local and touring productions that has seen the likes of Grace Kelly, Dick Van Dyke, Robert Redford, Liza Minnelli and more grace the stage converted from a gristmill in 1939. Since a reboot in 2012, the 500-seat theater has hosted several world premieres and has returned to its roots as an incubator for soon-to-be Broadway hits.

Where: Bucks County Playhouse, 70 S. Main Street, New Hope

Hedgerow Theatre

Delaware County’s Hedgerow Theatre , founded in 1923, is a repertory theater and company that has attracted prominent performers to its stage including Keanu Reeves, Paul Robeson and Ann Harding (who purchased and donated the theater to the company in 1931). Hedgerow has also operated as a proving ground for writers like Eugene O’Neill, Langston Hughes and George Bernard Shaw, and features furniture and staircase designs by Wharton Esherick (see above). In addition to general audience productions in the 144-seat playhouse, the “Mother of All Philadelphia Theaters” offers an outdoor children’s theater and innovative sensory-friendly performances.

Where: Hedgerow Theatre, 64 Rose Valley Road, Media

Philadelphia Union and Subaru Park

Pre-match activities on the field at Philadelphia Union's soccer stadium in Chester, PA

The Philadelphia Union , the region’s Major League Soccer club, has been thrilling association football fans decked out in navy and gold since 2010 — including capturing the 2020 Supporters’ Shield for the league’s best regular season record, three U.S. Open Cup finals appearances and a run to the MLS championship match in 2022. Beautiful soccer-specific Subaru Park stadium in Chester hosts the Union’s lively home games, led by the friendly-but-rowdy 5,000-member strong Sons of Ben supporters’ group. Bonus: Spectators can enjoy impressive views of the Delaware River and the Commodore Barry Bridge which soars above the site.

Where: Subaru Park, 1 Stadium Drive, Chester

  • Museums & Attractions
  • Bucks County
  • Chester County
  • Delaware County
  • Kennett Square
  • Montgomery County
  • West Chester

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The Traveling Moore

150+ Short Travelling Captions for Instagram Photos or Reels

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Wondering what to caption your latest travel photo on the ‘gram? This list of over 100 short travelling captions for Instagram is for you!

As a travel blogger, one of the most frustrating parts of my job is captioning photos on Instagram . I know that’s hard to believe, but my mind always goes blank when trying to come up with something clever.

I decided to save myself (and you) some frustration by putting together this list of hundreds of short Instagram captions. Some of funny, others serious. There are also some perfect for a beach vacay for city trip.

Keep reading for a list of caption ideas for your next post or reel.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Short and Simple Travelling Captions for IG

one day trip usa instagram

1. Wanderlust and city dust.

2. Life is short, travel often.

3. Adventure awaits.

4. Exploring new horizons.

5. Roaming free.

6. Lost and loving it.

7. Making memories around the world.

8. Escape the ordinary.

9. Adventure is out there.

10. Travel far, travel wide.

11. Collect moments, not things.

12. Exploring the unexplored.

13. Wander often, wonder always.

14. Lost but found.

15. Leaving footprints all over the world.

16. Wander often, wonder always.

17. Travel far and wide.

18. The journey is the destination.

19. I left my heart in [destination].

20. Life is an adventure.

Funny Travel Captions

21. Where to next?

22. Jet lag is for amateurs.

23. Salt in the air, sand in my hair.

24. A change of latitude would help my attitude.

25. Let’s wander where the Wi-Fi is weak.

26. I’m in a long-distance relationship with my suitcase.

27. I need six months of vacation, twice a year.

28. My travel budget: 10% plane tickets, 90% food and souvenirs.

29. Just a girl trying to make everyone jealous of my vacation.

30. I like long walks on the beach, especially when they lead to a bar.

189 Funny Travel Captions that Will Make You Laugh

Short Travel Quotes

Dubrovnik View from Water

31. “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine

32. “Adventure is worthwhile in itself.” – Amelia Earhart

33. “Travel makes one modest, you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” – Gustave Flaubert

34. “Not all those who wander are lost.” – J.R.R. Tolkien

35. “To travel is to live.” – Hans Christian Andersen

36. “Travel far enough, you meet yourself.” – David Mitchell

37. “Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

38. “The journey not the arrival matters.” – T.S. Eliot

39. “Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous

40. “Travel far, travel wide, and travel often.” – Anthony Bourdain

Song Lyrics About Travel

41. “Leaving on a jet plane, don’t know when I’ll be back again.” – John Denver, “Leaving on a Jet Plane”

42. “I’ve been everywhere, man, I’ve been everywhere.” – Johnny Cash, “I’ve Been Everywhere”

43. “On the road again” – Willie Nelson, “On the Road Again”

44. “I’m on the pursuit of happiness and I know everything that shine ain’t always gonna be gold.” – Kid Cudi, “Pursuit of Happiness”

45. “Come sail away, come sail away, come sail away with me.” – Styx, “Come Sail Away”

46. “Life’s a journey, not a destination.” – Aerosmith, “Amazing”

47. “Two drifters off to see the world, there’s such a lot of world to see.” – Louis Armstrong, “What a Wonderful World”

48. “I’m on my way, driving at 90 down those country lanes.” – Ed Sheeran, “Castle on the Hill”

49. “She’s got a ticket to ride, but she don’t care.” – The Beatles, “Ticket to Ride”

50. “Country roads, take me home to the place I belong.” – John Denver, “Take Me Home, Country Roads”

Social Media Captions About City Travel

View of Broadway Nashville

51. Discovering the world one city at a time.

52. Lost in the city lights.

53. Urban explorations and coffee shop conversations.

54. City streets and city beats.

55. Wandering through the heart of the city.

56. The city is my playground.

57. Concrete jungle adventures.

58. Finding magic in the city’s chaos.

59. In a city full of stories, I’m writing my own.”

60. Every city has a soul; I’m here to discover it.

  • 300 City Instagram Captions for Travel Photos and Videos

Short Captions About Nature

Lahaina Banyan Tree

61. Follow the call of the wild.

62. Chasing sunsets.

63. Lost in paradise.

64. Find me where the wild things are.

65. Explore the beauty of the world.

66. Into the wild I go, losing my way, finding my soul.

67. The best views come after the hardest climbs.

68. The mountains are calling, and I must go.

69. Getting lost in the beauty of Mother Nature.

70. Exploring the world’s natural wonders, one adventure at a time

Beach Vacation Instagram Captions

Beach in Oahu with people playing in the water and the sand. Jungle hill in the background

71. Living on island time.

72. Meet me where the sky touches the sea.

73. Sea you in paradise.

74. Good times and tan lines.

75. Just keep swimming.

76. Life is better in flip-flops.

77. Sunshine and tan lines.

78. Island vibes only.

79. Life’s a beach, enjoy the waves.

80. Sandy toes and salty kisses.

Instagram Captions About Cruising

explorer of the seas

81. Sail away with me, to new horizons on the open sea.

82. Cruisin’ through life one wave at a time.

83. Salt in the air, adventure on the horizon.

84. Waving goodbye to the real world for a while.

85. Life is better on a cruise ship.

86. Every sunset is an opportunity to reset at sea.

87. In love with the cruise life.

88. Cruising: where every day is a new voyage.

89. I’m on a boat, and it’s going fast.

90. Waking up in a new place every day – the magic of cruising.

More cruise captions ➡️

Short Travel Captions about Flying

bush plane in uganda

91. Jet, set, go!

92. Catch flights, not feelings.

93. Jet-setter at heart.

94. Jet-setting through the clouds.

95. In the sky, I find my peace.

96. Up, up, and away!

97. Traveling at the speed of flight.

98. Exploring the world one flight at a time.

99. Fly high, dream big.

100. In the clouds, I find my happy place.

150 Flying Captions for Instagram Photos and Reels

Instagram travel captions for road trips.

101. On the road again.

102. Always take the scenic route.

103. On the road to anywhere but here.

104. Endless roads and open hearts.

105. Adventure is out there, and it starts with a full tank.

106. The best therapy is a road trip.

107. Life is a highway; I want to ride it all night long.

108. Getting lost is half the fun.”

109. Road trippin’ and memory-makin’.

110. Driving into the unknown with the windows down.

Romantic Travel Instagram Captions

Capital of victoria BC

111. Let’s get lost together.

112. Our love story: written in the places we’ve been.

113. Exploring the world hand in hand with my love.

114. Traveling with you makes every journey an adventure.

115. Love and adventure go hand in hand.

116. Wanderlust and love, the perfect combination.

117. With you, every place feels like home.

118. Finding love in the most unexpected places.

119. Romance is in the air, and so are we.

120. You and me, chasing dreams and creating memories around the world.

More couple travel captions ➡️

Cute Travel Captions Instagram with Friends

girls weekend in Chelan at a winery

121. Finding paradise wherever we travel together

122. Embracing my resting beach face with my girls

123. “I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

124. Cheers to new adventures with old friends

125. The one place I want to be is wherever my girls are

Travel Captions for Instagram Reels

126. For a bustling cityscape video: “Where the streets are alive with more than just dreams.”

127. Showcasing local cuisine: “Taste-testing my way around the world, one bite at a time.”

128. Luxury hotel room tour: “My home away from home is fancier than my actual home.”

129. Hiking adventure: “Taking the scenic route to my next meeting.”

130. Beachfront relaxation scene: “Current status: Making waves and taking names.”

131. Cultural festival or event: “Dancing to the rhythm of new cultures.”

132. Safari experience: “Out of office: currently in a meeting with the real Big Five.”

133. Historic landmarks tour: “Walking through history, one step at a time.”

134. Sunset or sunrise view: “Chasing sunrises (or sunsets) around the globe.”

135. Thrilling adventure activity (like skydiving): “Because my business suit needed a break.”

136. Exploring local markets: “Finding treasures and bargaining in the world’s most colorful markets.”

137. Luxurious spa day: “Self-care level: Luxury Spa in a foreign land.”

138. Iconic train journey: “All aboard my journey to the extraordinary!”

139. Street food sampling: “Going where the flavor takes me.”

140. Aerial view of a destination (via drone): “Bird’s-eye view, bucket-list destination.”

141. Winery or vineyard tour: “Sipping my way through the finest vineyards.”

142. Onboard a cruise ship: “Where my office view rocks and waves.”

143. Local music or dance performance: “The universal language of music, from a new corner of the world.”

144. Snowy adventure (skiing, snowboarding): “Trading sand for snow, and loving every minute!”

145. Underwater exploration (snorkeling, diving): “Going off the deep end in the best way possible.”

146. Biking through scenic landscapes: “Two wheels, one epic journey.”

147. Luxury shopping spree: “When in Rome, shop as the Romans do.”

148. Stay in an unusual or unique lodging: “Where the wild things are – my incredible stay in [Destination].”

149. Visiting a famous cafe or restaurant: “More than just a meal – it’s an experience at [Cafe/Restaurant Name].”

150. Panoramic city view (from a high vantage point): “On top of the world, or at least [City Name].”

Summary of this List of The Best Travel Captions for Instagram

If you’re still wondering what to caption your Instagram post, I don’t know what to tell you! At the end of the day, sharing on Instagram is about connecting with others and capturing memories so don’t stress the caption too much.

Want to see some of these travelling captions for Instagram in action? Follow me on insta @TheTravelingMoore .

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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Travel enthusiast based all over the USA with more than 65 passport stamps collected. Since 2015, I’ve explored 36 states, 28 national parks , and for two years, fully embraced vanlife.

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20 Unique Day Trips from Cleveland: One Tank Trips Ohio Destinations

If you’re in Cleveland and are looking for one tank trips Ohio destinations, this list will provide you with some of the best Ohio day trips from Cleveland — all less than a 4-hour-drive away, organized from closest to farthest. 

Cleveland Ohio sign

There are plenty of things to do in Cleveland Ohio with its great mix of both city and rural life. There’s always somewhere exciting to explore in town while being surrounded by the beauty and serenity of Lake Erie. 

But… Cleveland just so happens to neighbor so many other fantastic Ohio cities with must-see destinations, like the Holden Arboretum, The Wilds, and even Amish Country. Cleveland is within a few hours of some travel-worthy, out-of-state spots, too – perfect for a quick road trip or weekend getaway. 

27 Best Spring Things to Do in Ohio

You might be surprised to discover some of the lesser-known Ohio gems right outside Cleveland in Northeast Ohio . So, go pack your day bag and explore some of these one tank trips from Cleveland!

Cuyahoga Valley National Park - Brandywine Falls, Things to do in Canton

Ohio Day Trips from Cleveland

Cuyahoga valley national park in peninsula ohio.

30-minute drive from Cleveland

If you haven’t been to Ohio’s national park yet, you need to! The nearly 33,000-acre park has an abundance of beautiful hiking trails with varying difficulties (more than 125 miles worth) – all so very close to Cleveland.  

If you’re backpacking the state-wide Buckeye Trail, it intersects the park. Make sure to spend some time exploring other areas of Cuyahoga National Park.

Family-friendly activities include traversing through the park on a scenic train ride , picnicking, paddling the river, fishing at Kendall Lake, joining one of the park’s group education or excursion events, and snowshoeing in winter.

Don’t miss exploring Brandywine Falls – one of the park’s most popular features!

Holden Arboretum in Kirtland Ohio

You’ll see some of the most beautiful gardens in Ohio at the 3,500-acre Holden Arboretum . The arboretum is divided into several sections, each featuring different plant and animal life and cared for to maintain the native habitat. 

The Holden Wildflower Garden shows off the beauty of Ohio’s native plants. Spot graceful butterflies and hummingbirds in the peaceful Holden Butterfly Garden. Walk through the tree tops and across a bridge 65 feet above the ground on the Murch Canopy Walk.

If you hike to the top of the 120-foot-tall Kalberer Emergent Tower, you’ll experience scenic 360 views of not only the gardens but as far as Lake Erie.

views of Akron Ohio

Check Out the Sights in Akron Ohio

45-minute drive from Cleveland

Less than an hour away, Akron is the perfect Ohio day trip destination near Cleveland. There are so many great things to do that it’s hard to choose where to start! 

Here are a couple unique, don’t-miss Akron spots:

Tour the Stan Hywet Hall and Garden s, a historic estate that’s one of the largest in the US. The National Historic Landmark was once the home of the co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The beautiful mansion is one of the best Ohio spots to visit around Christmas time, as they adorn the manor with festive decorations. 

Visit the Akron Art Museum , where you’ll find a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary art. The building’s architecture itself is a work of art. 

A couple of other family-friendly destinations include the Akron Zoo and the historic Hale Farm and Village .

The J.M. Smucker Co. Store and Cafe in Orrville Ohio

1-hour drive from Cleveland

Visit the Smucker’s flagship store and cafe to buy unique products from one of America’s most-known and loved brands (they’ve been in operation for more than 120 years). 

The store has for sale from their family of brands a variety of jams and jellies, coffee, peanut butter, pet gifts, kitchen accessories, clothing, and custom gift baskets, too.

Aside from the gift shop and souvenirs, visitors can also have a meal in the cafe. The Smucker Co. Store and Cafe gives you a sense of wholesome Americana while being just an hour away from Cleveland.

J.M. Smucker Co. Store and Cafe - Orrville, Ohio - Cleveland Day Trips

Sip through Ohio’s Wine Country in Ashtabula County Ohio

Just an hour from Cleveland is the scenic Ohio Wine Country . Have a glass at any (or all) of Ashtabula County’s over 30 wineries. Most of these Ohio wineries have vineyards to explore along with tasting rooms.

Some of the best Ohio wineries include Debonne Vineyards (if you like beer, they also have a microbrewery), Harpersfield Vineyards, Laurentia Vineyard and Winery, M Cellars, and Cask 307 (try their delicious charcuterie and cheese). 

If wine isn’t your thing, there are many idyllic, covered bridges in Ashtabula County. The nearly 230-foot-long Harpersfield Covered Bridge is a local favorite; it reaches across the Grand River. Sit down at the nearby park along the river bank and admire the view. 

Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield Ohio

1-hour and 15-minute drive from Cleveland

If you’re a lover of all things paranormal, you won’t want to miss this Ohio day trip from Cleveland. Tour the “haunted” former Mansfield Reformatory during one of their tours or ghost hunts; they also offer The Haunted Prison Experience around Halloween time. 

Its chillingly beautiful exterior and architecture coupled with a dark history draws in visitors from Ohio and from throughout the US. The Ohio State Reformatory first opened in 1896 and is now nearing 130 years old.

Movie buffs will also want to visit the Ohio State Reformatory. It was the primary filming location of the award-winning 1994 film, The Shawshank Redemption . 

Related:  14 Movies Filmed in Ohio: An Incomplete List

Ohio State Reformatory - Mansfield, Ohio - Cleveland Day Trips

Visit Sandusky Ohio

Sandusky is, of course, famous for Cedar Point – the Roller Coaster Capital. The Ohio amusement park has been open since 1870 and is the second-oldest operating in the United States. It’s the perfect spot for thrill seekers with 16 roller coasters, a water park, and more. 

But if you visit Cedar Point, don’t make the mistake of missing out on the rest of what Sandusky has to offer …

  • Ride the classic merry-go-round at the Merry-Go-Round Museum .
  • Paddleboard, kayak, swim, or fish on Lake Erie .
  • Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky . 
  • If you’re a foodie, check out some of the fantastic dining options that Sandusky has to offer.

Check Out Youngstown Ohio

Youngstown OH is blooming, especially downtown. If you take the short drive from Cleveland to Youngstown, don’t skip these local favorites.

Indulge at One Hot Cookie ! You can’t miss the cute, pink and white trailer that’s home to delectable desserts like the Cherry Cheesecake Cookie or the Death by Chocolate Cookie. If you have a late-night craving, you’re in luck; on Friday and Saturday, they’re open until 2:30 AM. 

Toast at Whistle and Keg . Spend the evening out at this brewery and beer hall with a ton of craft beers on tap. Top-rated pours include CRYOHIO, an imperial IPA from Fat Head’s Brewery; Most Excellent Razberry Limeade, a mead from Crafted Artisan Meadery; and Gumballhead, a wheat beer from 3 Floyds Brewing.

Relax and enjoy the outdoors at Mill Creek Park . Inside the park are also the beautiful Fellows Riverside Gardens and Lanterman’s Mill , which was constructed in the 1840s.

Mill Creek Park - Youngstown, Ohio

Take a Trip to Amish Country in Holmes County Ohio

1-hour and 30-minute drive from Cleveland

Just a short drive from Cleveland is the world’s largest Amish and Mennonite community! If you embark on this Ohio day trip from Cleveland, there are a few stops you simply have to make. 

Educate yourself about their culture and unique community at the Amish and Mennonite Heritage/Behalt Center , or at Yoder’s Amish Home . 

Immerse yourself in the slow-living communities of Walnut Creek, Farmerstown, and Charm (yes, it’s charming there), where you can shop, dine, and take in the scenery. Check out the local bakeries and produce stands for deliciously fresh baked goods and produce. 

Ohio Amish Country is also known for its beautiful expanses of rolling hills and farmland; for this reason, many Holmes County roads are designated as scenic byways.

P.S. The world’s largest cuckoo clock is in Sugarcreek (in the neighboring Tuscarawas County).

Escape to Kelleys Island Ohio

2-hour drive from Cleveland

Kelleys Island is the perfect getaway for those embarking on an Ohio day trip . 

For the easiest (and most fun) way to get around the popular island, rent a golf cart or bike after getting off the ferry. Take a ride and you’ll find some shops and restaurants, hiking trails, sandy beaches, and fantastic views of Lake Erie.

One of the island’s most unique sights is the glacial grooves, which are the biggest in the world at 400 feet long by 35 feet wide and up to 10 feet deep. These Ice Age remnants are an extraordinary National Natural Landmark .

Other things to do on Kelleys Island include kayak rentals and tours, exploring Kelleys Island State Park , touring the Kelleys Island Historical Association museum , and admiring the artwork of the Charles Herndon Sculpture Garden and Galleries . 

Kelleys Island - Kelleys Island, Ohio

Visit German Village in Columbus Ohio

2-hour and 15-minute drive from Cleveland

German Village is one of Ohio’s destinations on the National Register of Historic Places. The lovely neighborhood has quaint, brick buildings and idyllic scenery along with fantastic food, culture, and things to do. 

For foodies: have an ice cream cone filled with Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks at Jeni’s Ice Cream , or indulge in decadent fudge while you watch it being made at Schmidt’s Fudge Haus . 

Art lovers can enjoy the Umbrella Girl fountain at the historic Schiller Park , or the contemporary and historic art collection at Keny Galleries .

Catch a production at Actor’s Theater of Columbus , or if you’d rather snuggle up with a book, visit The Book Loft — a massive haven for literature-lovers housed within an old general store, saloon, and other historic buildings.

Explore Attractions in Put-In-Bay Ohio

Put-In-Bay is one of our favorite Ohio day trips from Cleveland. There are so many unique things to do in this Ohio city nestled on a Lake Erie island.

One of the top destinations is Crystal Cave , where you can explore the inside of the world’s largest celestite geode. Yes, you can actually stand and walk inside it—the 12,000-15,000-year-old geode is 35 feet in diameter. Adults can also visit the accompanying historic Heineman Winery , which has been in operation since the 1800s.

Other Put-In-Bay attractions include Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center, the Butterfly House, South Bass Island State Park, Stonehenge Estate, the Chocolate Museum, Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, and the adult-friendly The Sand Bar. 

Put-in-Bay - Put-in-Bay, Ohio

The Olander Park System in Sylvania Ohio

The Olander Park System is one of the top family-friendly Ohio day trips from Cleveland. Their parks are spread throughout Sylvania and include Fossil Park, Sylvan Prairie Park, Whetstone Park, Olander Park, and Southview Oak Savanna. 

Some of their parks include unique features. Sylvan Prairie Park is a lovely area that’s being rehabilitated to restore the vitality of the natural prairie and wetland environments; visitors can bike, walk, skate, jog, fish, and sled at the park during wintertime. 

Their Fossil Park is one of two great Devonian Era sites in the world. Visitors of all ages can dig for (and take home!) fossilized remains of over 200 different species of prehistoric life, including coral and brachiopods. 

The Wilds in Cumberland Ohio

2-hour and 30-minute drive from Cleveland

The Wilds isn’t just any old Ohio zoo . Visit the nonprofit park and conservation center to experience a safari adventure and see wild animals up close. Even though it’s a short drive from Cleveland Ohio , it’ll feel like you’re on the Savannah thousands of miles away.

This popular destination also offers other outdoor activities, including fishing, horseback riding, and for thrill-seekers, zip-lining. If you want to extend your day trip , you can stay at one of their cabins or check out WildNights at the Outpost (a camping experience outdoors near exotic animals, like giraffes and rhinos).

The Wilds - Cumberland, Ohio - Summer in Ohio

Ohio Caverns in West Liberty Ohio

2-hour and 45-minute drive from Cleveland

Did you know that the largest caves in Ohio are only a couple of hours from Cleveland? 

The Ohio Caverns feature over 2 miles of passageways and a variety of rock formations and colors, including stalactites and stalagmites. Crystal King’s Cave features one of the biggest stalactites in the world—it’s about 400 pounds and five feet long. 

The caverns are open year-round and are explorable by guided tour. There are several types of tours including the Natural Wonder Tour, Historic Tour, Winter Tour (Oct 1-April 30), and the Limestone Tour.

The caves stay about 54 degrees year-round, so make sure to wear a light jacket and sneakers when you visit, even in July!

Clifton Mill in Clifton Ohio

3-hour drive from Cleveland

The historic Clifton Mill is one of the largest, still-standing, water-powered grist mills. Originally built in 1802, the site has since expanded to include an idyllic covered bridge, an American restaurant, Country Store, and vintage gas station with Americana charm. 

The nostalgic 1940s Gas Station Museum is still stocked with original products and authentic relics from the era. Walk across the covered bridge for fantastic views of the Clifton Mill, Clifton Gorge, and the Little Miami River waterfalls.

You’re in for a treat if you visit during the winter, as the property goes all out with Christmas decorations. The whole family will enjoy their display of over 4 million twinkling, festive lights!

Clifton Mill, Clifton OH

Idle-Hour Ranch in Troy Ohio

3-hour and 15-minute drive from Cleveland

Idle-Hour Ranch is a family-owned farm in Ohio with a diverse array of activities. Aside from the farm, their zoo features animals of all shapes and sizes from camels to kangaroos and even anteaters. Plus, you can feed the kangaroos and take a ride on a horse or camel!

The Ranch also offers gem and fossil mining and a gift shop. If you want to extend your stay, you can camp overnight in genuine tipis. 

It’s a great Ohio day trip from Cleveland especially during the fall months when they host bonfires, hayrides, and a fun, six-acre corn maze. 

Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio

Hocking Hills is a treasured Ohio state park with beautiful scenery and diverse flora and fauna. It’s received international acclaim for its waterfalls, caves, idyllic cliffs, gorges, and native wildflowers.

Visitors can hike and explore some of Hocking Hills’ various caves including Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, and Whispering Cave. Other famous trails showcase Cantwell Cliffs and Cedar Falls, the latter of which features grottos, waterfalls, blankets of hemlock, and tall rock walls.

Other things to do at the park include disc golf, camping, hunting, and fishing. You can also tag along on one of the park’s regularly scheduled group outings that feature activities like archery, kayaking, and family-friendly educational classes. 

Hocking Hills State Park, Logan - Places to Visit in Winter

Day Trips from Cleveland Outside of Ohio

Explore pittsburgh pennsylvania.

Wander across the state line into Pennsylvania and experience Pittsburgh. 

There are so many great things to do in Pittsburgh, but here are a few to get your day trip from Cleveland Ohio started. 

Explore the beautiful Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens . This Pittsburgh staple is one of the oldest-operating conservatories in the US, featuring seasonal flower displays and rotating exhibits, a nationally-recognized orchid collection, and plenty of butterflies. 

Art enthusiasts—don’t miss The Andy Warhol Museum, The Frick Art and Historical Center, or Randyland, the latter of which features an eclectic collection of Randy Gilson’s artwork. 

Niagara Falls in New York

3-hour and 30-minute drive from Cleveland

Niagara Falls is less than 4 hours from Cleveland, making it the perfect Ohio day trip. The world-renowned destination is nestled between the borders of Ontario, Canada and New York state. 

With waterfalls that drop more than 160 feet, it’s no wonder that it’s a revered, natural landmark and stunningly beautiful. One of the falls, Horseshoe Falls, is the most powerful in all of North America. 

Make sure you wear a raincoat or poncho if you get up-close-and-personal with the Falls, unless you want to get soaked!

Niagara Falls NY

More Tips for Taking Day Trips from Cleveland Ohio

When you embark on your next Ohio day trip from Cleveland, you shouldn’t need much. Pack a day bag and travel to one of the many fantastic, next-door Ohio destinations we’ve provided, or discover some on your own!

If you find an interesting city while you’re exploring, be sure to check their community events calendars to see what’s happening while you’re passing through. You never know what you might stumble upon, from art festivals to fairs to concerts and more. 

views of downtown Cleveland Ohio

Frequently Asked Questions about Day Trips From Cleveland Ohio

What is there to do less than an hour away from cleveland ohio.

Take a short drive and explore all of Akron, get lost in nature at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and wander along the beautiful botanical gardens of the Holden Arboretum. 

What are the most popular Ohio day trips from Cleveland?

Cedar Point in Sandusky , Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Amish Country in Holmes County, Mohican State Park in Loudonville , and even outside of Ohio, Niagara Falls in New York state are some of the most popular Ohio day trips from Cleveland. 

But there are so many other amazing Ohio destinations for you to explore! Whether it’s one on our list, or one you discover on your own, the Buckeye state will not disappoint.

What about things to do in Cleveland?

Cleveland itself will keep you occupied with plenty of things to do. Check out the renowned Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the family-friendly Greater Cleveland Aquarium , the food-lover’s paradise (Cleveland’s Little Italy), the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, or beautiful Lake Erie lighthouses .

Check out our guide on spring things to do in Cleveland, Canton, and more ! 

Explore Amazing Things to Do on Day Trips From Cleveland Ohio

These perfect day trips in Ohio from Cleveland are just some of the many wonderful things to do in Ohio . Hopefully you’re inspired to drive and take a fun day trip away from Cleveland to discover some of these best places to visit in Ohio .

Looking for more Ohio day trip ideas?

  • Best Day Trips from Columbus
  • Best Day Trips from Cincinnati

Adventure awaits in the Buckeye State!

Born and raised in Ohio, Matt Heffner loves to share his knowledge of the state at the heart of it all. Founder and chief explorer of Rooted in Ohio, his articles provide local insight to some of the best hidden gems in Ohio.

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The Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip: How to Spend One Day

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TL;DR: The perfect Catalina Island day trip begins with a ferry ride to the scenic town of Avalon, where you can take golf carts to nearby viewpoints, snorkel in the clear waters, kayak along the coves, and indulge in fresh lobster rolls—all for around $200-$300 per person.

Catalina Island boasts 75 square miles of hilly terrain, beautiful beaches, kelp forests, and one of California’s most popular multi-day treks – the 38.5-mile Trans-Catalina Trail.

The island also happens to be one of the best day trips to do in Southern California since it’s only 22 miles off the coast and only about an hour by ferry from Los Angeles and Orange County.

The perfect Catalina Island Day Trip

It wasn’t until a couple of years ago that I finally made the trip to Santa Catalina Island myself. It had always been on my radar, as many of the islands off the coast of California have been for years, but I just never made it happen.

That is until I found myself with an extra day after a trip to Disneyland . I quickly decided to finally experience Catalina Island once I realized how easy it was to get to the island.

Based on that trip, this is my full itinerary for the perfect Catalina Island day trip for anyone who is also looking for a unique and easy day trip.

By the end of it, you’ll know exactly what to expect with a day trip to Catalina Island, how to get there, and what to do to soak up the best that this island has to offer.

day trip to catalina island

Table of Contents

How to Get to Catalina Island

Unless you know someone who has a sailboat or helicopter, the easiest way to get to Catalina Island is by ferry. There are two boat companies that take passengers to the island – Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer .

The vast majority of people visiting the island will take the high-speed ferry with Catalina Express since it leaves from more locations, including San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point and travels to both Avalon and Two Harbors.

The Catalina Flyer, on the other hand, only leaves from Newport Beach.

how to get to catalina island

Here are the options for doing a trip to Catalina Island from the mainland.

From Los Angeles

Long Beach is the most popular and active port for traveling to Catalina by ferry. The ferries that leave from the Long Beach Port take about an hour and only travel to Avalon.

During the off-season, there are only two departures and returns per day. This is when I went so I just had to be mindful of ferry times to make sure I didn’t miss the only late afternoon ferry back to the island.

You also have to squeeze in a bit more if you’re trying to do a day trip during the off-season since the earliest ferry leaves around 7:00 am from Long Beach and starts its return from Avalon at 4:15 pm.

During the summer, you’ll find up to 6-9 departures and returns per day so you can be more flexible with your day trip to Catalina Island. Shoulder seasons can fluctuate so you’ll need to check the ferry schedules ahead of time before planning your trip.

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San Pedro has fewer departures and returns but it’s also the only port with ferries that go to Two Harbors as well as Avalon. And similar to the Long Beach Port, the number of ferries leaving and returning per day depends on the time of year.

In the off-season, it’s usually only a couple of departures and returns per day and that goes up to around 5-6 to Avalon and 7-9 to Two Harbors in the high season.

The ferry from San Pedro to Avalon takes about an hour and 15 minutes and the ferry from San Pedro to Two Harbors takes about two hours.

Book the Catalina Express from Long Beach or San Pedro here .

From Orange County

If you’re coming from Orange County or San Diego, you’ll probably want to leave from Dana Point. The ferries from Dana Point travel to Avalon and there are only a couple of departures and returns year-round.

The ferry from Dana Point takes about an hour and a half one way to get to Catalina Island.

Newport Beach

The ferry that leaves from Newport Beach is run by the Catalina Flyer instead of the Catalina Express. There is only one departure and return per day from this port and it only travels to Avalon. The journey takes just over an hour.

How Much Does the Catalina Ferry Cost?

Round trip tickets for the Catalina Express are $74.50 for adults, $67.50 for seniors 55+, and $59 for children under 12. You can book them here . 

Round trip tickets for the Catalina Flyer are $70 for adults, $65 for seniors 60+, and $53 for children 12 and under.

Visiting Avalon vs Two Harbors

To keep things simple, I put together this Catalina day trip itinerary based on starting your day in Avalon. There are a few reasons for this.

First off, most of the ferries that travel to Catalina Island only go to Avalon and back (with the exception of the San Pedro ferries), so you have a lot more choices if you’re doing a day trip to Avalon.

Secondly, there’s a lot more to do in and around downtown Avalon compared to the more remote Two Harbors. So if you only have a day, Avalon is the better option for more things to do.

And lastly, it’s quicker to get to Avalon. Avalon takes anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half to get to depending on which port you’re leaving from, whereas Two Harbors takes two hours to travel to.

If you only have a day, you’ll want as much time as possible on the island so I recommend sticking to Avalon.

walking around the city of avalon

The Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip Itinerary: 6 Things to do on Catalina Island

Walk around town & shop the local boutiques.

Estimated Time: 30 min – 1 hour

plan a trip to catalina island - what to do

When you first arrive in the city of Avalon, I’d recommend spending some time getting acquainted with the cute downtown area and exploring the local boutiques.

Also, if you plan to do an afternoon tour but haven’t already booked one ahead of time, the dock area is where you should do that once you arrive.

Stop by the Catalina Island Coffee & Cookie Co for a fresh cup of coffee and maybe a bite to eat if you haven’t had breakfast yet. I’d highly recommend trying one of their delicious cinnamon rolls (if there are any left).

Then simply walk around the small area that makes up downtown Avalon. Poke your head into shops and find some souvenirs that you might want to pick up later before you hop on the ferry back to the mainland.

If you’re a photographer, this is also a great time to get some initial shots of Catalina Island and its scenic harbor with its famous casino in the background.

Check Out the Best Viewpoints & Go for a Short Hike

Estimated time: 2-3 hours

rent a golf cart and take in the viewpoints

Once you’re caffeinated, it’s time to explore the island by foot and golf cart.

There are hardly any cars on Catalina Island, except for those that belong to the few thousand people who actually live on the island. This means most visitors get around the island by golf cart.

You’ll find rentals near the dock area by the hour. I’d recommend going with Catalina Golf Cart Rentals .

They also have a map for a 12-mile scenic route that takes about an hour to complete which is a good place to start if it’s your first time on the island.

Note: For rentals, you have to be at least 21 years old and provide a valid driver’s license. Renting a golf cart from Catalina Golf Cart Rentals also requires a $50 deposit and it’s cash-only but there’s a nearby ATM.

Rentals run at about $50/hour and there’s usually a deal where if you buy two hours you’ll get the third hour free.

Once you have your rental sorted, make sure to include these stops while exploring the island:

  • Buena Vista Point
  • Lover’s Cove Scenic Vista
  • 3 Palms Scenic Overlook (this one is probably my favorite view on Catalina Island)
  • Ocean Scenic Overlook
  • Wrigley Botanical Garden

short hikes on catalina island

And if you’re up for a short hike, head up to the Catalina Island Conservancy near the Wrigley Botanical Garden and tackle one of these hikes:

  • Garden to Sky Trail (2.8 miles)
  • Trans-Catalina Trail to Lone Tree Viewpoint (3 miles)
  • Hermit Gulch Trail (3.4 miles)

Hit the Water

Estimated Time: 2 hours

water activities on catalina island

You can’t visit Catalina Island and not do at least one water activity while you’re in town.

The surrounding waters around the island are full of diverse marine life, kelp forests, and clear waters that are some of the warmest in Southern California.

It’s no surprise then that it’s a great spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, or exploring the water through a boat ride, kayaking , or standup paddleboarding.

Here are a few activities to choose from:

  • Snorkeling – You can either do a guided tour if you’re not familiar with snorkeling or simply rent a snorkel and go by yourself. A few of the best spots for snorkeling near Avalon include Casino Point Dive Park/Avalon Dive Park (there are snorkel rentals near the park) and Lover’s Cove (a more secluded spot so you should pick up snorkels in Avalon before heading here). If you want to do a tour, I’d recommend going with Snorkeling Catalina .

snorkeling on catalina island - lover's cove

  • Scuba diving – You can book a scuba tour with Catalina Scuba (they offer tours for both certified divers and those without any experience).
  • Kayaking or SUPing – If you prefer to explore above the water, renting a kayak or standup paddleboard (or going on a tour) is an ideal option. Since the water is usually very clear around the shores of Catalina, you can still see a lot from above the water. You can find kayak or SUP rentals from Wet Spot Rentals (they also have snorkel rentals) or Descanso Beach Ocean Sports offers tours and rentals.
  • Dolphin & whale watching – If you’re not a fan of getting wet but still want to experience the marine life around Catalina Island, you can go on a two-hour dolphin and whale watching tour with Catalina Diver Supply .
  • Jet skiing – If you’re just looking for a bit of fun out on the water, you can rent jet skis from Catalina Jet Ski .
  • Parasailing – If you’re looking for a thrilling water activity, one of the best ways to see the beauty of Catalina Island is from above. California Parasail offers 800-foot flights for 1, 2, and 3 people.

Note: Another very popular water activity on Catalina is the island’s semi-submersible submarine and glass-bottom boat tours. However, many of these tours feed fish to get them to swim close to the boat. These regular feedings can actually be detrimental to the local fish population as it teaches them to not search for their own food. I personally don’t recommend any tour that interacts with wildlife in a way that negatively changes their natural behavior, which is why I don’t recommend these activities if you’re going to Catalina Island. And, in general, I find these tours to be overly touristy and not the best way to experience the local sea life in its natural habitat.

Relax on the Beach

Estimated time: 1-2 hours

relax on the beach - middle beach on Santa Catalina

Even though there are a lot of adventure activities you can do, it’s good to give yourself at least an hour or two to just relax on Catalina island’s beautiful beaches as well.

One of the best places to go where you can also grab a cocktail to sip out on the beach is Descanso Beach Club .

Located just past the casino, this private beach costs $2 for beach access but is the nicest beach within walking distance to downtown Avalon.

You can also rent private cabanas at Descanso if you’re with a group or choose to simply enjoy the sand with a beach towel. It’s the perfect place to relax and grab a drink or bite to eat in the off-season or during the week.

During the high season, it turns into a party beach with rotating DJs on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, so don’t expect a peaceful beach setting if you’re visiting the island on a summer weekend.

You can also rent kayaks , standup paddleboards, and sign up for the zip lining tour , rope course , and rock climbing wall at Descanso Beach if you want to fit multiple activities into one area.

If you’re not a fan of paying for beach access, you can also lay out on the small beach near the ferry dock, called Middle Beach (although it doesn’t have quite the same ambiance).

Eat Fresh Lobster Rolls

Estimated time: 45 minutes – 1 hour

grab some fresh seafood before you head back on the Catalina Express

Santa Catalina Island isn’t exactly known for its foodie scene, but it’s still surrounded by the ocean so if you’re a fan of seafood you should make time to grab some delicious lobster rolls before you get back on the ferry.

I went to the Lobster Trap while I was in town and although the service could’ve been friendlier, their lobster rolls were a great way to end my time on Catalina Island before making my way back to the mainland.

Optional Addition: Go on a Local Tour

Estimated Time: 1-3 hours

tours on catalina island

If you get through everything on this Catalina Island itinerary, you probably won’t have time to do a guided tour on the island as well.

However, if you choose to extend your time or want to switch out one of the above activities with a tour, there are plenty of options on the island. Here are some of the best tours on Catalina Island:

  • Catalina Casino Tour – One of the most popular tours on Catalina Island is a walking tour through the historic art deco casino. There are two tours you can take: Discover the Casino Tour and Catalina Casino Behind the Scenes Tour . The 45-minute Discover the Casino Tour is the perfect intro to the history of the Casino and it allows you to tour the main highlights, including Avalon Theatre. The 90-minute Behind the Scenes Tour goes into more detail and focuses on areas of the casino that were once closed to the public for over 70 years.
  • Jeep Tours – If you’re looking to explore more of the island than what your golf cart can handle, I’d recommend hopping on a two-hour jeep tour. This eco-friendly tour with Catalina Island Company gives you a good overview of the local wildlife around the island and even some bison spotting.
  • Zip Lining Tour – As mentioned above, there’s a zip lining tour you can sign up for at Descanso Beach. If you’re looking for some thrills, this is an easy experience to fit into your time at the beach if you have a couple of hours to spare. On the tour, you’re taken 600 feet above the beach where you’ll fly across the canyon and through some eucalyptus trees at around 35 MPH. Along the zip line course, you’ll enjoy some scenic ocean views and learn more about the flora and fauna that can be found on Catalina Island. And, if you’re looking for more activities, there’s also a rock climbing wall and ropes course at Descanso Beach.
  • Ghost Tours – If you’re staying overnight, looking for a quirky tour, and you enjoy ghost stories, doing a Haunted Catalina ghost tour can be a fun way to spend an hour. Tours start at 7 pm nightly from the base of the Green Pier in downtown Avalon.

Quick History of Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island’s history goes back to 8,000 years when Indigenous people from the Gabrieliño/Tongva tribe first inhabited the island.

Over the years, it’s been visited by smugglers, pirates, the Union army, missionaries, celebrities, and, of course, travelers.

For a good chunk of the 19th century, the island was owned by James Lick, a real estate investor and at one point the wealthiest man in California.

He eventually sold the island to the Banning Brothers, who started the Santa Catalina Island Company in the 1890s and turned the island into the resort destination it is today.

In the early 1900s, William Wrigley Jr., who had a controlling interest in the Santa Catalina Island Company, started developing the island even more into a resort destination.

He was the one who built the Catalina Casino and he even made Avalon the Spring Training home for the Chicago Cubs until 1951. His descendants still own most of the Santa Catalina Island Company today.

For a short stint during World War II, the island closed down to the public so it could be used as a military training facility. After the war, tourism picked up again and it became a popular vacation spot for celebrities, especially from the 1930s to 1950s.

Catalina Island was and still is a popular place to shoot movies (over 500 films, tv shows, and commercials have been shot in the area).

history of catalina island - catalina casino

Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

The best time of year to explore Catalina Island is spring and fall. You’ll find the best weather during this time of the year and slightly fewer crowds than you will in summer.

Summer can be a good time to visit as well, but the weather is often overcast in the mornings with the sun not breaking through until the afternoon.

Winter is the worst time to visit with choppy waters that make water activities hard to do and the ferry ride to and from the island unpleasant.

However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds and care more about land activities, winter can be a good alternative to the busier months.

Just note that winter brings reduced ferry times so there’s less wiggle room for a day trip (although it’s still very much possible).

best time to visit catalina island

Tips for Visiting Catalina Island

  • Catalina Island isn’t the cheapest – As you can probably tell with the ferry price alone, a visit to Catalina Island isn’t always the cheapest. Transportation (including the ferry and golf cart rentals), food, and accommodation (if you’re planning a weekend trip), all come at a premium price. Make sure to budget accordingly and know that you’ll probably have to spend at least $200-$300 for a day trip to Catalina.
  • Keep track of ferry times – This is especially the case if you’re visiting in the low season when there are only 1-2 departures and returns per day. Make sure you’re keeping track of the time and that you can actually fit everything in without needing to rush back to the ferry if you’re only doing a day trip.
  • Pack water shoes – If you plan to do water activities, don’t forget a pair of water shoes. Although there are some soft sandy beaches, a lot of the shoreline around Catalina Island can be rocky and uncomfortable to walk around with bare feet.
  • Try a Buffalo Milk cocktail – You can’t make a visit to Catalina Island without trying its signature drink! This creamy cocktail is made with vodka, Kahlua, Creme de Cocoa, Cream de Banana, and half and half. You should be able to find it at any bar on Catalina Island, but a good place to start is either Descanso Beach Club or Luau Larry’s. It’s basically like ice cream in cocktail form.

visit catalina island - tips for your trip

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Headshot

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more Southern California travel inspiration? Don’t miss these related posts below! 

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30 Best Things to do in Orange County

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

2 thoughts on “The Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip: How to Spend One Day”

I love your guide!

This info makes me definitely want to visit Catalina Island.

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