When you think of churches, you probably think of huge gothic cathedrals or Baroque architecture found throughout Europe. But there are amazing churches to visit across the United States that I think might surprise you.  In the United States you can find Grand Cathedrals like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis or historical churches like the Old North Church found in Boston. I am not religious, but I find churches to be architecturally beautiful and interesting. I’ve come across surprising churches across the United States during my travels. I wrote this post to share some of my favorite churches in the United States.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Churches to Visit Across the United States From Boston, Massachusetts to Santa Fe, New Mexico, below is a list of churches across the United States that I recommend visiting. These churches rival ones in Europe and are most likely not on many travelers radar.  If you’ve visited any of these churches let me know your experience, or if there are other churches that deserve to be listed, leave a comment so I can visit!  1. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis – St. Louis, MO My favorite church in the United States and probably one of the top churches around the world is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis in St. Louis, Missouri. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is a massive and breathtaking church from the outside and the inside is just as striking.  The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis has the largest mosaic collection in the world. The interior of the cathedral is covered in mosaics, over 41.5 million of them in over 7,000 different colors.  If you are visiting St. Louis make sure to pay a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. It is my favorite church in the United States and might surprise you.  Travel Tip: If you want to get the most out of visiting St. Louis, I highly recommend booking a St. Louis walking tour that includes a stop at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis.  👉 Book a St. Louis tour that includes the Cathedral Basilica and other nearby St. Louis attractions here.  Other Things to do in St. Louis Check out the St. Louis Zoo Visit the Gateway Arch Try BBQ and Craft Beer 2. St. Louis Cathedral – New Orleans, LA New Orleans is one of the best cities to explore in the United States and the French Quarter is an absolute must! One of the most iconic landmarks in the French Quarter is the St. Louis Cathedral.  The cathedral you see today was completed in 1850 and is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States.  When I visit New Orleans, I always make it a goal to visit the St. Louis Cathedral. You can get great photos of the church anywhere in Jackson Square or from Washington Artillery Park.  Travel Tip: If you want to get the most out of visiting the French Quarter, I highly recommend booking a French Quarter walking tour. It bundles a stop at Jackson Square and other famous attractions around the historic French Quarter district.  👉 Book a historical French Quarter tour that includes Jackson Square and other nearby attractions here.  Top Things to do in New Orleans Take a Haunted Walking Tour Tour the French Quarter, Garden District, and Cemetery Go on a Day Trip to the Oak Alley Plantation and ride a Swamp Boat 3. Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart – Newark, NJ Another surprising location for one of the United States most spectacular churches is Newark, New Jersey. Here you can see the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.  This Gothic-style cathedral does rival the churches of Europe with its towering spires and stained-glass windows.  The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is located near the Branch Brook Park.  I had an overnight layover at Newark Liberty International Airport and had time in the morning to visit the basilica. If you have a half day to 24 hour layover or just sightseeing around Newark, the cathedral truly is one of the United States best churches and a must visit!  Newark Attractions and Things to do Visit Sea Life at the American Dream Go for a Splash at DreamWorks Indoor Water Park Traveling? Stay at a nearby Hotel Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸  4. St. Fidelis Basilica – Victoria, KS When driving along I-70 in the state of Kansas, when passing near the town of Victoria you can see the two towers of St. Fidelis Basilica off in the distance.  Known as the  “Cathedral of the Plains,” St. Fidelis Basilica is a must-stop attraction along I-70.  St. Fidelis Basilica was built in Victoria, Kansas in the early 1900s. It is a Romanesque-style church known for its limestone towers.  5. Loretto Chapel – Santa Fe, NM Santa Fe, New Mexico has no shortage of beautiful and unique churches. While touring around Santa Fe, you will see the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, San Miguel Chapel, and the historic Loretto Chapel.  The Loretto Chapel is a smaller church but known for its miraculous staircase. What makes the beautiful staircase unique is that it is built without a central pole or nails. It’s fully constructed of wood held together by wooden pegs.  6. San Antonio Missions – San Antonio, TX There are 5 missions in San Antonio which include. The Alamo, Concepcion, San Jose, San Juan, and Espada. The most famous, being the Alamo is located in downtown San Antonio. The other missions are easily discovered along the Mission Trail.  The missions were constructed in the early 18th century by priests who settled in the San Antonio area from Spain in order to spread Christianity.  You can see all the missions in a single day. You can drive to each mission or cycle to them, which is what I chose to do. The Mission Trail is well connected and perfect for cycling.  7. Saint Catherine Chapel on the Rock – Allenpark, CO A small beautiful church in a gorgeous setting surrounded by mountains is the Saint Catherine Chapel on the Rock located in Allenpark, Colorado.  A quick stop at this church is a must when visiting Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.  8. Old Churches of Boston – Boston, MA Boston is home to some of the most historic churches in the United States. Visiting the famous Old North Church is a must. It was built in 1723 and considered the oldest church in the city. The Old North Church plays a significant role during the Revolutionary War, it is here where lanterns were lit to alert Paul Revere that the British were coming.  Make sure to walk the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail that connects the most significant sites around Boston during the American Revolution, many of them are churches and historic cemeteries.  9. Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist – Savannah, GA Located in the heart of Savannah, Georgia, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built and fully complete in 1896. This church is known for its architecture, beautiful spires, and stained-glass. When visiting Savannah, enter he church to see the painted ceilings.  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸  10. St. Philip’s Church – Charleston, SC St. Philip’s Church dates back to the 1600s and is one of the most iconic churches in Charleston, South Carolina.  The first thing I notice about this church is the towering steeple and architecture.  Charleston is an amazing city to explore with an abundance of other beautiful churches to explore.  Conclusion If you are planning a U.S. road trip, love historical architecture and landmarks, or just visiting one of the cities mentioned in this post I highly recommend visiting these churches. It’s not just Europe that is home to beautiful churches, you can find plenty around the United States, often times in less popular travel destinations.  Let me know if you’ve been to any of these or if you have recommendations yourself that I should visit and add to the list. Safe Travels!  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸  Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇺🇸 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖️🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars. Add Your Heading Text Here

If you are looking for a fun and scenic day trip from from Colorado Springs, Cripple Creek and Victor are two must-visit mountain towns full of Colorado History with a Wild West atmosphere.  Once booming gold mining towns, Cripple Creek and Victor are huge tourist attractions full of mines to explore, amazing mountain views, unique local shops, and famous casinos.  I’ve traveled to Cripple Creek and Victor from Colorado Springs dozens of times. Each time offers a unique opportunity. This post is intended to share all things Cripple Creek and Victor from hiking trails to gambling.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Why Take a Day Trip to Cripple Creek? A day trip to Cripple Creek & Victor from Colorado Springs is one of the best ways to g experience Colorado’s rich history and beautiful mountain landscapes without venturing too far from the city.  Just an hour away, these former gold rush towns offer historic attractions, scenic outlooks, and entertainment.  Hike the numerous trails to see old mines and ghost towns, learn about Colorado’s history at one of the museums, or try and win big at one of the many famous casinos at Cripple Creek. In my opinion, driving to Cripple Creek and Victor is an attraction in itself, especially during fall when the aspen trees are changing. There are places along the way to pull off, breathe in fresh mountain air, and enjoy Colorado’s beautiful nature. Getting to Cripple Creek & Victor from Colorado Springs Driving to Cripple Creek and Victor from Colorado Springs is an attraction in itself. The drive is scenic, winding through beautiful mountain sceneries. Enjoy the views and pay attention to wildlife.  The drive is short, it’s only about an hour give or take. From Colorado Springs, the most popular route is via Hwy 24 West toward the town of Divide. Once in Divide take Hwy 67 all the way to Cripple Creek. If you want to stop in Victor first, take Hwy 81. History: Colorado’s Gold Rush Towns I can’t really talk about Cripple Creek and Victor without briefly describing the history and the discovery of gold in the area. The area surrounding both Cripple Creek and Victor became the site of one of the most famous gold mining districts in the United States after gold was discovered in 1890.  By 1891, more and more gold was discovered and miners, businessmen, and others with dreams of becoming rich flocked to Cripple Creek.  Cripple Creek quickly grew from a small and quiet ranching area into a bustling town.  I read at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center that the population of Cripple Creek was fewer then 500 when gold was first discovered. The following year, in 1892 an estimated 2,500 people lived in the area. By 1900, it grew to more than 13,000.  Between Cripple Creek and Victor, the gold rush economy was booming and left behind a legacy of historic buildings, ghost towns, old mines, and a deep connection to Colorado’s Wild West history for all of us to enjoy today!  Things to do in Cripple Creek Most visitors that go to Cripple Creek for the day from Colorado Springs tend to gamble at one of the many famous casinos. Although fun, there are plenty of other options and things to do in Cripple Creek. Whether you are with your family or going solo, below are just a few of the things to do in Cripple Creek.  Cripple Creek Heritage Center If you choose to visit Cripple Creek first by taking Hwy 67, I highly recommend visiting the Cripple Creek Heritage Center.  It’s basically a tourist information center that is a few stories tall that has a wealth of information on the history of Cripple Creek, activities and things to do in the area, and information on local wildlife and the surrounding mountains.  The staff is always friendly and helpful, there are restrooms inside, and make sure to grab a pamphlet on Cripple Creek and other nearby attractions.  Visit a Casino In my opinion, Cripple Creek today is most famous for being a gambling town. The town itself is very interesting and I highly recommend walking around, but most people, especially locals, come here to gamble.  There are at least 10 casinos in Cripple Creek within walking distance from the main road. There are without a doubt more in the general area though.  It’s worth stopping in a few of the casinos to try and win big on the slot machines, tables, and other casino games.  If gambling is not your thing, I still recommend popping into a few of the casinos to check out the beautifully restored 19-th century buildings.  Some of the more famous casinos in Cripple Creek include The Brass Ass, Bronco Billy’s, The Midnight Rose, and the Colorado Grande Casino.  Learn About the History The Cripple Creek Heritage Center is a great starting point with a lot of detailed information on the history of Cripple Creek.  There are historical museums in Cripple Creek that are worth visiting. Although small, the District Museums outline the history of the town during the Gold rush era.  Other attractions and museums include the Outlaws and Lawmen Jail Museum, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, and the Old Homestead House.  For more information on attractions and things to do in Cripple Creek, visit their official site.  Walk E Bennett Ave Cripple Creek is not that big, so I feel a walk down E Bennett Ave is a must! E Bennett Ave is the main road that goes through town. There are casinos, shops, restaurants, and so much more lining each side of the road.  You can start on one side of E Bennett Ave near the Cripple Creek District Museum and Narrow Gauge Railroad and walk toward the Outlaws and Law Men Jail Museum.  I always love popping into some of the antique shops and the Rocky Mountain Canary Store for ice cream.  Cripple Creek Donkeys Growing up and visiting Cripple Creek, I was always fond of the wild donkeys that roam the streets and parks of the town. These are legit wild donkeys!  I haven’t seen them the last two times while paying a visit to Cripple Creek, but they could be roaming anywhere. If you get lucky enough to see them, take photos and enjoy the moment!  Exploring Victor Victor, aka the “City of Mines,” is just a few minutes drive from Cripple Creek. Victor is a historic mining town with well-preserved buildings, mining equipment on display, and scenic nature trails.  Although much smaller then Cripple Creek, Victor is a must visit town and can easily be added to a full day trip from Colorado Springs.  Hike the Vindicator Valley Trail One of my favorite things to do in the Cripple Creek and Victor area is hiking the Vindicator Valley Trail.  The Vindicator Valley Trail is 2.02-miles and can be accessed on the American Eagles Road or the Theresa Mine on County Road 81. The trailhead here has a few spots to park.  The trail is fairly easy and maintained. There are small inclines in spots, but the trail is not paved. Just use caution when walking and especially when exploring the mines.  Along the Vindicator Valley Trail, you can see the Theresa Mine, Vindicator Mine headframe, and the Bebee House.  Explore Historic Victor Victor is much smaller then Cripple Creek but I feel it deserves at least a quick walk through.  Stroll historic downtown Victor, here you can spot many beautiful brick buildings, a handful of antique shops, cafes, and a few nice galleries.  See Rita the Rock Planter Created in 2023 by the artist, Thomas Dambo, visitors can come face to face with Rita the Rock Plater, a giant troll made entirely of recycled wood.  To see Rita the Rock Planter, there is a parking lot at the American Eagles Mine. Right off Hwy 67, there is a dirt county road, 87. Take the county road to the parking area. Feel free to explore the American Eagles Mine.  From the mine, there is a short 5-10 minutes walk to Rita the Rock Planter. You can walk around her, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful Colorado mountain scenery.  In order to preserve Rita so other can enjoy, please respect the rules posted at the site:✅ Don’t climb on Rita✅ Don’t pull her hair, fur, or nails✅ Be mindful of her mountain and its beauty✅ Stay on the trails✅ Be courteous of others✅ Leave no trace of your visit✅ Enjoy yourself and fellow hikers!  Tips for Planning Your Day Trip A historic day trip to Cripple Creek and Victor from Colorado Springs is probably one of the best day trips in the state of Colorado. Here are some additional Tips for planning your trip to these two gold-rush towns.  ✅ When driving from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek and Victor, the mountain roads can be steep, winding, slippery when wet, and icy in the winter. Take your time and enjoy the views. ✅ Speaking of driving, watch out for wildlife on the roads! Colorado has some of the most beautiful wildlife, preserve them and protect yourself. ✅ Late spring and early fall are beautiful times to visit Cripple Creek. Especially fall when the aspen trees are turning colors. ✅ Cripple Creek and Victor are close to 10,000 ft in elevation. If you are not used to high elevation, make sure to take it easy and stay hydrated. ✅ If you can’t find any dining options in Cripple Creek, you can always stop in Woodland Park on the way back for Dinner. ✅ If driving to Cripple Creek from Colorado Springs in the morning, make sure to stop at the Donut Mill in Woodland Park for breakfast to try some of the best donuts and savory options around.  Conclusion A day trip to Cripple Creek and Victor from Colorado Springs is one of the best trips you can take. It’s a great blend of Wild West history, scenic mountain views, and small-town charm.  I highly recommend planning a short hike, exploring gold mines, trying your luck at one of the many casinos, and just enjoying your time in Cripple Creek and Victor.  If you are visiting Colorado Springs and looking for something to do, then take the scenic drive to Cripple Creek and Victor and make the most out of your day trip!  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸  Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇺🇸 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖️🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

There are no shortage of tourist attractions in San Diego. This coastal city is packed with world-famous attractions, beautiful beaches, must-see landmarks, and historical sites.  Take in the history as you walk on the USS Midway Museum or enjoy the lively Gaslamp Quarter. Whether you are into relaxing on the beach, sampling beers, or looking for family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone.  In this post, I’ll share some of my recommended tourist attractions in San Diego, that will guarantee you get the most out of your trip. Feel free to add a few of these attractions or all of them to your San Diego travel itinerary.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Tourist Attractions in San Diego Worth Visiting There is a laundry list of things to do in San Diego. With an abundance of attractions and sites to see, how do you pick what to add to your San Diego Itinerary?  Whether this is your first time in San Diego or you’ve been several times, here are my recommended attractions that are a must when visiting San Diego.  1. Balboa Park Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s top tourist attractions and a must-visit. Balboa Park offers a nice blend of culture, nature, and history. In Balboa Park you can find great museum, beautiful gardens, stunning architecture and of course the San Diego Zoo.  Balboa Park is best explored on foot. I walked through Balboa Park from the San Diego Zoo to the Comic-Con Museum. Combined with the zoo, you can easily spend an entire day at Balboa Park.  2. Spanish Village Art Center The Spanish Village Art Center is located in Balboa Park, but I feel it should get its own shout-out and added to any San Diego travel itinerary.  Upon exiting the San Diego Zoo and making my way through Balboa Park, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the colorful courtyards, art studios, and craft shops at the Spanish Village Art Center.  3. San Diego Zoo One of my most recommended things to do in San Diego is a visit to the zoo. The San Diego Zoo is considered to be one of the world’s best zoos.  The San Diego Zoo has more then 12,000 animals, including a pair of Giant Pandas. The zoo is perfect for those traveling with children as there are a lot of family-friendly exhibits and attractions like the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp.  My advice for visiting the San Diego Zoo is go early and try going on a weekday to avoid crowds.  For a complete in depth dive about the San Diego Zoo, feel free to read my blog post here.  4. Waterfront The San Diego Waterfront is one of the best places and most scenic spots to be at almost any time of the day. You get incredible bay views, attractions, and coastal vibes. Some of the best restaurants I tried in San Diego have been along the waterfront. Along the San Diego Waterfront, you can visit the USS Midway Museum, check out the Maritime Museum, walk around Seaport Village, and so much more. You can also look into taking harbor cruises.  5. USS Midway Museum A must-visit tourist attraction in San Diego is the USS Midway Museum. I would say, this is the #1 attraction in San Diego and has to be added to your itinerary.  Step onboard and wander around the historic aircraft carrier turned museum. You can explore the Hangar Deck, Below Decks, and the Flight Deck.  On the flight deck there are dozens of aircraft, some you can even walk on or sit in. The below deck offers visitors a chance to see the galley/kitchen, engine room, brig, sleeping quarters, and so much more.  I have a dedicated post to the USS Midway Museum with more information, here.  6. Maritime Museum A few minutes from the USS Midway Museum along the waterfront is the Maritime Museum of San Diego.  The Maritime Museum is home to one of the world’s best collections of historic ships, including the Star of India. According to the museum, the Star of India is a three masted bark and is the oldest iron-hulled merchant ship afloat.  Visitors can step aboard and explore the ships on display to include a submarine and steam powered vessels.  7. Seaport Village Seaport Village is a must-visit waterfront destination and cute area full of fun shops and great restaurants.  Seaport Village is within walking distance from other attractions like the USS Midway Museum or the Gaslamp District. Seaport Village is the perfect place to relax, do some sightseeing, and just enjoying California’s laid-back coastal atmosphere.  8. Little Italy Little Italy in San Diego is a neat neighborhood, perfect for those that want to try delicious food and experience a completely different culture.  Little Italy is not far from downtown and near the Waterfront Park. This lively district is filled with Italian Restaurants, cafes, farmers markets, and so much more.  If you are looking for delicious ice cream, I recommend trying a few flavors at Salt & Straw, located at 1670 India Street in Little Italy.  9. Gaslamp Quarter The Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego is definitely the place to be if you are looking for nightlife. At the Gaslamp Quarter you can find amazing restaurants, bars, clubs, cigar bars, breweries, late night pizza stands, the list goes on and on.  The Gaslamp Quarter is a large area full of trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, live music, and interesting shops. The architecture of the buildings within the Gaslamp Quarter is an attraction on its own, they are gorgeous.  10. Petco Park When visiting San Diego, why not catch a Padres baseball game? If you are a sports lover, definitely see when the Padres are in town an enjoy the game. If you can’t make a game, it’s in the offseason, or if the Padres aren’t in town you can still enjoy the park. Check out this Behind-the-Scenes at Petco Park Tour.  I never did catch a Padres game while staying in San Diego. But I was on a business trip to San Diego and the conference I was at opened up the stadium to us. I got to be on the field and even go inside the locker rooms.  11. Old Town San Diego Old Town San Diego feels like its own village away from the modern hustle and bustle of new city life.  This historic district is packed with preserved adobe buildings, fun shops, and authentic Mexican restaurants.  Old Town is one of the best places to visit in San Diego for a unique and completely different experience then other attractions throughout the city.  12. Mission Beach If you are looking for the perfect spot in San Diego for sun, surf, and classic California vibes, then I recommend heading to Mission Beach. Mission Beach is a lively neighborhood beachfront area known for its sandy beach, boardwalk, and attractions.  13. Mission Churches If visiting San Diego to learn more about its history, I recommend visiting some of its historic Missions. Mission San Diego de Alcala is the most famous of the Missions in the San Diego area.  Mission San Diego de Alcala was founded in 1769 and is still active.  14. Coronado A day trip to Coronado from San Diego is a must if time allows. Just a short drive or ferry ride across the bay, Coronado is famous for its beaches, small-town feel, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado.  There is quite a bit to do and see on Coronado from spending the day on Coronado Beach and strolling down Orange Avenue looking at boutique shops to exploring new cafes and biking along the waterfront.  When I visited Coronado, I took the Coronado – Convention Center ferry to Coronado and the Coronado – Broadway Pier ferry back.  From the Coronado Ferry Landing, I walked Orange Ave directly to Hotel del Coronado. I walked the beach for a bit to include the dunes and then I took Orange Ave back to the Coronado Ferry Landing.  While waiting for the ferry, there are a bunch of shops and restaurants at the ferry terminal that are worth it to kill time.  15. La Jolla I think one of the best tourist attractions in San Diego is actually not in San Diego, but La Jolla. A day trip to La Jolla from San Diego is a must if you are looking to see beautiful coastal scenery and wildlife.  Known for its dramatic cliffs and abundance of sea lions, La Jolla is the perfect destination for both casual and adventure travel.  There is so much to do in La Jolla. Check out La Jolla Cove, kayak the sea caves, shop in the village, or take to many photos of sea lions and birds, like me.  Visiting La Jolla makes for a great day trip from San Diego and well worth the effort if you have that extra travel day in your San Diego itinerary.  16. Breweries If you are like me and love craft beer, then San Diego is for you. San Diego is a craft beer lover’s paradise. Many award-winning breweries call San Diego home and the beer culture is superb!  You can find downtown taprooms and great breweries all over San Diego. There is even a Stone Brewery Taproom at the San Diego Airport.  Make sure to visit one of the Stone Brewery locations, the atmosphere is probably the best I’ve been to. Besides Stone Brewery, sample a flight of beer at Ballast Point and grab a pint at Bay City Brewing in the Gaslamp District.  Conclusion I really enjoyed my time in San Diego, it truly does have it all. The scenic parks, beautiful waterfronts, a world-class zoo, and an abundance of historical attractions. I only listed 16  tourist attractions in San Diego worth visiting, but there are so many more! If you want to share anything I missed or other local attractions in San Diego, please share in the comments. Thanks!  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸  Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇺🇸 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖️🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

The USS Midway Museum in San Diego is one of the city’s most popular attractions and a must-visit for anyone who loves history, unique museums, or are just curious about these giant ships. Located along the San Diego waterfront, this historic aircraft carrier turned museum offers visitors an incredible experience. So much so, I’ve visited the USS Midway Museum a few times now.  Being one of San Diego’s most visited attractions, I felt the need to write this post to help you plan your visit and learn about the USS Midway.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Brief History of the USS Midway The USS Midway (CB-41) is an aircraft carrier that was commissioned in 1945, at the end of World War II and then was used for 50 years by the United States Navy. The name, USS Midway is based on the deadly battle of Midway during WWII.  The USS Midway played a key role during the Cold War, Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm before it’s decommission in 1992.  In 2004, the USS Midway found new life and was turned into a museum in San Diego for the public to enjoy. It is the worlds most visited naval ship museum.  You can read more about the USS Midway and its history on the official USS Midway Museum website.  Planning Your Visit to the USS Midway Planning your visit to the USS Midway Museum is key to making the most of this iconic San Diego attraction. The museum offers audio tours, interactive exhibits, and historic aircraft on display that can easily fill a half day.  To better prepare for your visit to the USS Midway Museum I recommend arriving early and  purchasing tickets online in advance. Below, I’ve added helpful information to help you plan your trip to the USS Midway Museum.  Admission and Hours Hours Monday – 10:00 – 17:00Tuesday – 10:00 – 17:00Wednesday – 10:00 – 17:00Thursday – 10:00 – 17:00Friday – 10:00 – 17:00Saturday – 10:00 – 17:00Sunday – 10:00 – 17:00 ** Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Admission Adult – $39Youth – $26Veterans(With ID) – $26 Purchase Tickets You can buy tickets at the USS Midway Museum or through the USS Midway Museum website.  You can also purchase One-day admission tickets, any date through travel sites like Get Your Guide and Viator.  Below are Ticket options: San Diego: USS Midway Museum Entry TicketUSS Midway Museum Admission-Valid Any Date What to See at the USS Midway Museum Plan at least a half day to visit the USS Midway Museum. It’s a huge ship and takes time to explore. You can go Below Deck and see some of the day-to-day life of the sailors. Walk the Hangar Deck and see WWII-era aircraft, and gaze at the collection of restored aircraft on the Flight Deck.  Hangar Deck When entering the USS Midway Museum, the Hangar Deck is the first area you will visit. This deck has WWII-era aircraft, interactive displays, and even a gift shop. Check out the Battle of Midway Exhibit and partake in a flight simulator.  Below Decks Visiting the below decks of the USS Midway showcases more of the day-to-day life of sailors on the ship.  While touring the Below Decks you can see the galley/kitchen, chapel, sick bay/dental, engine room, control rooms, brig, and so much more.  View displays and see the actual rooms where the crew kept the ship functioning and running. I loved walking through the narrow doors from section to section, but the engine room had to have been my favorite.  Flight Deck One of the most exciting collections on the USS Midway lie on the Flight Deck. There are dozens of aircraft from bombers to helicopters. You can get up close to the aircraft and even get inside some of the ones on display.  Other exhibits on the Flight Deck include the Pilot Ready Rooms, Ship’s Island/Bridge, and the Captain and Admiral quarters.  Recommended Nearby Attractions I recommend a half day visit to the USS Midway Museum to fully explore this attraction. There are other nearby attractions in San Diego that are worth visiting to take up the entire day. Here are a few nearby attractions from the USS Midway.  The Unconditional Surrender The Unconditional Surrender Statue in San Diego is an iconic landmark right next to the USS Midway Museum. This statue is of a famous WWII moment of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square.  Maritime Museum of San Diego  A short walk from the USS Midway on the waterfront is the Maritime Museum of San Diego. This Maritime museum features one of the world’s finest collections of historic ships to include the Star of India, the oldest active Iron-Hulled Merchant Ship. Not only can you see the Star of India, but you can explore a submarine, steam-powered vessels, and other maritime exhibits.  Seaport Village One of the top rated attractions in San Diego is Seaport Village. Just a short walk along the waterfront from the USS Midway is this charming waterfront village filled with shops, restaurants, and harbor views.  Conclusion Visiting the USS Midway Museum is a must do attraction on your San Diego itinerary. It’s truly one of the most interesting and fascinating museums on American naval history. I can’t even describe what it is like standing on the massive flight deck an exploring other parts of the ship like the living quarters, engine room, and kitchens.  If you are planning a trip to San Diego, make sure to add the USS Midway Museum to your must-see attractions. I’ve been a few times now and can’t recommend it enough!  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸  Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇺🇸 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖️🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

Planning a trip to Fort Worth, Texas? Nicknamed “Cowtown,” Fort Worth is one of the top travel destinations in Texas, offering a nice blend of Western culture, family attractions, nightlife, and so much more.  You can’t go to Fort Worth without visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards, one of the cities number one attractions. There are is also a top rated zoo, beautiful botanical gardens, and amazing food.  In this Guide to Fort Worth, Texas, you’ll discover some of the best things to do, recommended places to eat, how to get here, and so much more to make the most of your trip to Fort Worth.  ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Where is Fort Worth? Fort Worth is a city in north-central Texas located just west of Dallas. It’s part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, often referred to as DFW. Fort Worth is roughly 30 miles (48 km) from Dallas. Best Time to Visit Fort Worth The best times of year to visit Fort Worth is during spring (March – May) and/or fall (September – November). Summers get hot in Fort Worth and it can get humid. Summer temperatures can get up to 95°F+ (35°C+).  Winter is relatively dry but can be cold around 40 – 60°F (4 – 16°C). Spring months offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, perfect for any outdoor activities.  Fall, you can also expect comfortable temperatures around 70 – 85°F (21 – 29°C).  Getting to Fort Worth By Plane: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is located between Fort Worth and Dallas, so flying to Fort Worth or Dallas is very convenient.  American carriers and International flights are serviced out of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.  By Train: The Texas Eagle (Amtrak) does make stops at Dallas Union Station and Fort Worth Central Station.  For schedules, times, and additional information, check out the Amtrak website.  By Car: Getting to and around the Fort Worth area is easiest by car, either personal car or rental.  From Austin, it’s about a 3 hour drive north on I-35.From Houston, it’s about a 4 hours drive northwest on I-45.From Oklahoma City, it’s about a 3 hours drive south on I-35.  For Rental Cars, I always recommend booking through Rentalcars.com. Top Attractions to Visit in Fort Worth There are no shortage of things to do and attractions in Fort Worth, Texas. I spent a week in Fort Worth and was busy sightseeing daily and trying to fit in as much as possible. In detail, here are a few attractions in Fort Worth that are a must.  Fort Worth Stockyards Every guide to Fort Worth will mention the Stockyards. If you want a true taste of the Wild West, the Fort Worth Stockyards are the perfect place to start. Catch the Fort Worth cattle drive along East Exchange Ave. Twice a day at 11:30 and 16:00. The cowhands ride alongside a herd of Texas Longhorns ending at the Livestock Exchange Building.  At the Fort Worth Stockyards you can also visit the Stockyards Museum, go to the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, browse the rustic shops, enjoy Texas BBQ, and go to legendary venues like Billy Bob’s.  Fort Worth Zoo Known as one of the best zoos in the United States, the Fort Worth Zoo is a must-visit attraction. Whether you are visiting alone, with family, or in a group, the Fort Worth Zoo needs to be added to your itinerary.  Home to over 7,000 animals from around the world, you can surely spend an entire day at the Fort Worth Zoo.  Personally, I liked the African Savanna and Texas Wildlife exhibits, although all were great! The zoo was very walkable with a lot of places to eat, drink, and rest.  For families with kids, the Fort Worth Zoo had a Petting Zoo. Botanic Gardens One of Fort Worth’s most underrated attractions is the Botanical Gardens. In the United States, this is one of the most beautiful botanic gardens I’ve visited.  Spanning 120 acres and home to over 2,500 plant species, the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens have themed areas like the Rose Garden, Fragrance Garden, and the beautiful Japanese Garden.  The Japanese Garden at the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens is honestly just as nice as some of the gardens you’ll see in Japan.  The botanic gardens is the perfect spot to add to your Fort Worth itinerary, offering seasonal events, year-round blooms, and so much more.  Day Trips from Fort Worth Although there is plenty of things to do and see in Fort Worth, there are must-visit attractions and places to see just outside the Fort Worth area. Afterall, Arlington and Dallas are less then an hour away.  Arlington Medal of Honor Museum One of the best day trips from either Fort Worth or Dallas includes traveling to Arlington to visit the Medal of Honor Museum. This must visit destination is located near the AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field and is less then a 30-minute drive.  The National Medal of Honor Museum is a newer Museum, opened in March, 2025. Learn about the extraordinary acts of real heroes through interactive exhibits and informative galleries. Sixth Floor Museum The most recommended day trip from Fort Worth, is probably a visit to Dallas to go to the Sixth Floor Museum, which is about a 30 – 45 minutes drive.  Visit the Sixth Floor Museum and learn about President John F. Kennedy and his assassination that took place on November 22, 1963. Dallas A day trip to Dallas from Fort Worth is a must. Not only to see the Sixth Floor Museum, but there is a lot to do and see in Dallas. The best thing yet, is Dallas is a short drive from Fort Worth.  Dallas is famous for it’s Arts District, Dealey Plaza, the Deep Ellum Entertainment District, and so much more. There are also a log of great restaurants and bars in the Dallas area.  Recommended Places to Eat When it comes to places to eat in Fort Worth, the city is a foodie paradise with everything rom Texas BBQ to upscale dining. In my opinion, you have to try Tex-Mex and BBQ, when visiting Texas.  My Guide to Fort Worth includes food recommendations. I spent a week in Fort Worth and tried everything from Texas BBQ and Tex-Mex to seafood restaurants and local diners. Here are some of my recommended restaurants to try in Fort Worth.  Uncle Julio’s Fort Worth – Uncle Julio’s is a great Tex-Mex restaurant with a huge menu, fantastic food, and a fun atmosphere.  Olivella’s Pizza and Wine – For great pizza and drinks in the Fort Worth area, Olivella’s Pizza and Wine is a must. I loved the pizzas from the wood-burning pizza oven.  Ol’South Pancake House – If you are looking for a 24/7 breakfast diner, then I recommend the Ol’South Pancake House. When visiting Fort Worth, I had to check out a local diner and this restaurant did not dissapoint.  Hudson House – I visited the Hudson House for appetizers and a main dish and really loved  it here. They have nice outside seating and delicious food choices.  HG Sply Co. – HG Sply Co has locations around the Dallas-Fort Worth area. I liked the location right along the Clear Fork Trinity River. They serve American food.  Natty Flat Smokehouse – If you are looking for good Texas BBQ in the Fort Worth area, I recommend driving just outside of town to Natty Flat Smokehouse.  Paloma Suerte – An amazing Tex-Mex restaurant at the Fort Worth Stockyards is Paloma Suerte.  Conclusion Fort Worth, Texas was a great destination to travel to. The cowboy culture in Fort Worth was what I imagined it to be like and it did not disappoint!  In Fort Worth, you truly get that Old West and modern charm. Visiting the historic Stockyards is a must but there is so much more to Fort Worth. I loved visiting the botanic gardens and even walking around downtown Fort Worth.  If planning to visit Fort Worth for the first time, use this guide to plan your perfect Fort Worth itinerary. If you like Fort Worth as much as I did, let me know what you think or if you have any recommendations.  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸   Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇺🇸 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖️🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

Fort Worth, Texas is an underrated city that blends Western heritage with modern attractions and establishments. Forth Worth has a lot to offer with surprisingly a lot to do and see from the historic Fort Worth Stockyards to the Botanic Gardens. If you are looking for the best things to do in Fort Worth, I compiled a list of my recommendations including must-try food in Fort Worth even day trips that are worthwhile. Whether it’s visiting for nightlife or just family fun, Fort Worth has an abundance of things to do. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Best Things to do in Fort Worth Fort Worth, Texas is one of those cities that has something for everyone. If you are into museums or art, the Cultural District is a must, if you are traveling with a family, the Fort Worth Zoo is world class, or if you just want to try good food, there is amazing BBQ and Tex-Mex.  I spent a week in the Fort Worth area and did a nice mix of local attractions, day trips, sampling food, and just exploring. Here are my recommendations on the best things to do in Fort Worth in 2025.  Fort Worth Stockyards Perhaps Fort Worth’s most popular attraction and place to visit is the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.  Don’t miss out on the daily cattle drives which occurs twice a day at 11:30 and 16:00. Cowhands guide a herd of Texas Longhorns down East Exchange to the stockyards. It’s free to watch, but can be crowded so find a spot early on. If you want to enjoy a rodeo, check out a show at the Fort Worth Cowtown Coliseum.  Otherwise, the Fort Worth Stockyards are a great place to explore, shops, enjoy nightlife, and dine at local restaurants.  Fort Worth Zoo The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the United States and a must see attraction. Visiting the zoo is a great family activity, just note that it can get crowded on weekends.  With more then 7,000 animals from around the world, the Fort Worth Zoo features beautiful exhibits. My favorite exhibits had to have bee Texas Wild and the African Savanna.  For families with young children there are hands-on experiences, a petting zoo, and other educational programs at the zoo.  Botanic Gardens In my opinion, one of the top attractions in Fort Worth and a must visit site is the Botanic Gardens.  The Fort Worth Botanic Gardens are a huge peaceful escape with themed gardens, including a Japanese Garden. The Japanese Garden was the perfect replica of what a Japanese Garden in Japan looks like from the buildings to the maple trees.  The Botanic Gardens are the perfect place for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to get out and enjoy nature.  Downtown Fort Worth Probably not on many people’s radars but walking around Fort Worth’s downtown area is actually pretty interesting and worthy of a couple hours at least.  I walked up and down Main Street reading the historical marker information, popping in and out of shops, and taking photos.  The Sundance Square area is the heart of downtown Fort Worth. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and theaters around here.  I walked to the Fort Worth Water Gardens and didn’t spend but 10-minutes here. It was just alright, more of a local cool down spot then a tourist attraction.  Visit a Museum There are quite a few museums in and around Fort Worth. Whether you like art, history, or culture, there are plenty of museums to visit.  I visited the Sid Richardson Museum near Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth.  This museum was free and featured amazing paintings by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, both Western artists.  Eat Texas BBQ I lived in Kansas City for seven years and fell in love with KC BBQ. I knew Texas was a contender as to who has the best BBQ in America. So of course, I had to be my own judge and see who had better BBQ, Kansas City or Texas.  I had BBQ a few times while visiting the Fort Worth area to include a BBQ restaurant in Dallas.  Fort Worth is known for authentic Texas BBQ where slow cooked meat, mainly beef takes the center stage.  I tried Natty Flat Smokehouse on the outskirts of Fort Worth and not only was the BBQ great but the restaurant was unique and in the parking lot there is the World’s Largest Cedar Rocking Chair.  I ordered a BBQ Plate with Brisket and Ribs and a few sides. I was impressed, the meat had a nice smokey flavor to it and a nice dry rub.  In my opinion, when it comes down to who has the better BBQ, sorry Texas, it’s Kansas City!  Try Tex-Mex Speaking of food, you have to try Tex-Mex in Texas. Tex-Mex is a cuisine that blends traditional Mexican recipes with Texas-style flair. Think Tacos, Enchiladas, Fajitas, and huge portions. In Fort Worth, there are a ton of Tex-Mex restaurants that serve your favorite dishes and great margaritas. Arlington Medal of Honor Museum If you are looking for Day Trips from Fort Worth or half day trips, I’d recommend driving to Arlington to visit the Medal of Honor Museum.  Arlington is about a 15 – 25 minute drive from Fort Worth. The Arlington Medal of Honor Museum opened in March, 2025. The Medal of Honor Museum is a powerful tribute to Americas bravest heroes and is dedicated to those individuals. Read about their heroic stories and how they achieved the nations highest Military Award, the Medal of Honor.  The museum is features exhibits, personal artifacts, media displays, and even has a VR experience, that I do recommend doing.  The Arlington Medal of Honor Museum is a must visit museum that is a quick drive from Fort Worth.  Day Trip to Dallas to Visit the Sixth Floor Museum If you have multiple days in Fort Worth and are looking for other things to do, I recommend heading to Dallas to visit the Sixth Floor Museum. From Fort Worth, Dallas is only a 30 – 45 minute drive.  In terms of tourist destinations in Dallas, the Sixth Floor Museum is the most visited landmark and a historical site that preserves the history and legacy of America’s 35th President, John F. Kennedy. The museum is located in the former Texas School Book Depository which is the site where Lee Harvey Oswald fired that fatal shot on November 22, 1963 that took the life of John F. Kennedy as his vehicle was driving through Dealey Plaza.  Today, visitors can walk around Dealey Plaza and visit the Sixth Floor Museum. The museum showcases powerful exhibits about that day, has historic photographs, news footage, and information on the life and death of John F. Kennedy. Conclusion When planning a trip, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Fort Worth. Visiting the Stockyards is an absolute must as is the zoo and botanic gardens. If you are into museums or just want to try good food, then Fort Worth is a must visit destination and often times overlooked by tourists. Fort Worth is one of the best destinations in Texas if you want to experience true Western charm.  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸   Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇺🇸 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖  For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours  🏖️🚁  Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.  In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘  I recommend checking with Rental Cars.

Kailua Kona or simply Kona, is a city of the western side of the Big Island of Hawaii. Kona has a rich history. Because of the ideal climate here, many ancient people settled in the area to include King Kamehameha I. Today, Kona is known for their coffee primarily but Kona Brewing Company has helped put Kona on a map. Not only is Kona famous for their beverages but it’s also a great place for visitors to come to and relax and enjoy water activities.  Why We Only Spent One Day in Kona We opted to stay in Hilo instead of Kona for a few simple reasons. First, hotel and rental properties in Kona were a lot more expensive. Hilo had more Airbnb options that were in our price range. Hilo was also closer to a lot of the attractions we were interested in like Akaka Falls and Volcanoes National Park. Lastly, Kona is more of a touristy destination. I’ve been to places like Cozumel, Mexico, Caye Caulker, Belize, and even Nassau in the Bahamas, and all these places to include Kona have a similar touristy vibe. You know, drunk tourists, expensive souvenir shops, and chain restaurants. To us, Hilo seemed more laid back and far less touristy. That is not to say that there is a lot of great places to explore around Kona. In fact, we spent a day here and enjoyed every minute of it, to the point where there was to much to do and see in a single day.  How we Maximized our Time in Kona We drove the 1.5 hours from Hilo to Kona for a day. Jill and I had a Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) exam, that we had to take the morning of. We also had to take Covid tests so we could fly back to Japan, so our time in Kona was limited. We really only had an afternoon and evening to spend here, but we maximized our time in Kona and managed to still experience a lot.  Kona Coffee Living History Farm At $20 a person, we felt the Kona Coffee Living History Farm was a bit pricey. But we figured we were on vacation and it’s not everyday you get to experience a coffee farm, so we bit the bullet, paid the fee, and honestly this was one of the better attractions on the trip.  This was a self guided tour, and there were interpreters there that demonstrated what life on a coffee farm was like in the early 1900’s. The first stop was at the mill, one of the employees was there and talked about life at the coffee farms, how the beans are picked and turned into coffee.  To this day, coffee beans are picked from trees by hand. Each bean on the tree produces one coffee bean. Can you imagine how much work that is to do by hand? Picture every café, grocery store, or breakfast joint around the world that serves coffee, imagine the amount of coffee beans that is being used around the world, and to think it’s all picked by hand, still baffles me.  After visiting the mill, we toured the Uchida Farm House. This was a house on the farm that was owned by Japanese Immigrants. The woman there who was of Japanese decent gave an excellent demonstration of the house that she grew up in on the grounds. The house was very traditional Japanese and she was so kind and a great story teller!  Kona Brewing Company I’d be lying to you if I’d say that a stop at Kona Brewing Company wasn’t my main reason for visiting Kona. I love beer and really love breweries. Breweries have the best atmosphere and usually some of the best local food you can find. Kona Brewing Company sells their beer all around the world. Honestly, prior to visiting the brewery, I haven’t had a beer from them I really liked. All their beers are pretty average, but that didn’t stop us from visiting the brewery.  This brewery seems to always be crowded. When I got here, they told me it was an hour wait, so while everyone else was looking for a parking spot, I grabbed a pint of their Castaway IPA and patiently waited to be called. It wasn’t but 15 minutes before the buzzer went off and we were seated. Atmosphere wise, Kona Brewery gets an A+. We were seated outside in the corner surrounded by tropical plants. I could have sat there all day sampling beers.  My parents and me all ordered beers for starters. Food wise, they are known for their pizzas. I ordered their Hawaiian Lu’au and it was fantastic! The pizza was made with a BBQ sauce made with their porter brew along with Kalua pork, cheese, chevre, and onions with a pineapple salsa. It’s been a while since I’ve had a pizza that good.  Beer wise, I was pleasantly surprised by the beers they had on tap. They do have their traditional beers like the Big Wave, Fire Rock, Longboard, etc. but I wasn’t after those. I got a glass of their Old Blowhole Barleywine, Hibiscus Haze, and Hula Hefeweizen. The Barleywine was the standout beer for me, I rated it on Untappd a 4.25 out of 5, so not bad Kona Brewing Company, not bad!  Royal Kona Coffee Center Royal Kona Coffee Center is a coffee farm and shop that we briefly visited while driving down Hwy 11. We stopped in here mainly to grab souvenirs, free samples of coffee, and we couldn’t leave without getting a Mocha Frappuccino which was delicious!  Downtown Kona Downtown Kona was within walking distance from Kona Brewing Company. In fact, we left our vehicle in their parking lot and walked about ten to fifteen minutes to the downtown area. Kona’s downtown was full of resorts, restaurants, shops, beaches, and everything else you would find in a touristy destination.  We stoppped on the Kailua Pier and enjoyed a Lua off in the distance. It quickly turned to evening and we strolled up and down the main road looking at the ocean, historical sites, and just taking in the relaxed atmosphere.  What we Missed Captain James Cook Monument I really wanted to do the Captain James Cook Monument. But I realized it was a 1.8 mile hike one way on a steep hill. None of us were really prepared for a hike like that. If I ever find myself in the Kona area, I’ll make note for next time to bring the proper clothes for a hike to see the Captain James Cook Monument.  Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park My parents were lucky enough to visit Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park. We had a morning flight while there was later that night. They dropped us off and drove down to the park. My mom kept sending me amazing photos of the park and said it was one of their highlights. I was totally jealous, so I guess I’ll have to visit some other time.  Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store.  Plan Your Trip: Booking Accommodations For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator has a lot of great options.  **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support!