From swimming at Barton Springs and hiking up Mount Bonnell to the nightly bat show above Congress Avenue Bridge, check out our favorite things to do in Austin, Texas.

Stroll Around Zilker Metropolitan Park

Dubbed Austin’s “most-loved” park, Zilker Metropolitan Park sits on the banks of the Colorado River and spans over 350 acres. Some of the city’s most famous draws are here, including Zilker Botanical Gardens and Barton Springs. There are also trails and plenty of open space for strolling and picnics. 

Set aside a day to explore all this lovely park has to offer. Art lovers can browse the works of sculptor Charles Umlauf, and garden enthusiasts will love the scenery of the Zilker Botanical Garden. Kid-friendly activities include a ride on the miniature train encircling Zilker Park (free for kids). Make new friends when you watch a musical at the theater or during an afternoon volleyball game.  

Nearby Recommended Hotel: The Carpenter Hotel is 11-minutes from Zilker Metropolitan Park and offers contemporary rooms with red-brick interiors and private terraces. This prime location puts you close to downtown attractions.

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Cool Off at Barton Springs

Barton Springs Pool is a popular swimming spot that has brought Austin locals and tourists together for generations. Located in Zilker Metropolitan Park, this beautiful blue pool is fed by underground springs. The water temperature stays a cool 68 degrees year-round making it the best place to lounge on hot summer days. There are grassy areas to relax, bathhouses, and even an exhibit to learn about the endangered Barton Springs Salamander and the area’s history.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: The Loren at Lady Bird Lake is a luxury hotel with upscale amenities and rooms that offer stunning views of the surrounding grounds. This lakeside property is pet-friendly and has a rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy a romantic dinner.

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Coffee at Walton’s Fancy & Staple

A-list movie star Sandra Bullock owns Walton’s Fancy & Staple, a cute cafe on 6th Street with a rustic-chic interior. Enjoy a creamy latte and pastries here to take a break from exploring. 

There’s also a flower shop in the building, so you can pick up a bouquet for your partner if you’re on a couple’s trip. If you’re not quite ready to continue strolling the streets of Austin, grab a window seat to observe the people and activity around you.

Nearby Recommended Hotel:  Canopy by Hilton Austin Downtown is an artsy hotel across from Walton’s in downtown Austin. Vibrant decor, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and free bikes to explore Austin make Canopy a perfect stay.  

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Lady Bird Lake Trail

Lady Bird Lake trail (as locals call it) is a scenic 10-mile trail in the center of Austin that loops around Lady Bird Lake. This trail is perfect for walking, running, hiking, or biking. A mile-long boardwalk offers stunning views of downtown’s skyline and many scenic spots to relax and picnic along the water’s edge.

Pack a basket to spend a leisurely evening resting in the peaceful quiet of the trail, or rent a kayak for some time in the water. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Regency Austin faces Lady Bird Lake and offers a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a sundeck. The onsite eatery serves hand-crafted cocktails and locally inspired fare.

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Tour the Texas State Capitol

In the heart of Austin stands the Texas State Capitol—14 feet taller than the US Capitol building in Washington, DC. This historic landmark proves that everything really is bigger in Texas. Join one of the free official tours of the building, Mondays to Sundays, to learn about Texan history while admiring the grounds and ornate architecture. If you’d rather go at your own pace, pick up a brochure and take a self-guided tour of the Capitol. 

The Capitol was restored in the 1990s. Its intricate design, beautiful terrazzo floors, and star-crested rotunda will surely leave you smitten. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Austin at The University / Capitol is a 7-minute walk from the Texas State Capitol. This hotel also puts you in the city’s center and is close to popular live music venues and bars.

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See All of Austin From Mount Bonnell

Officially known as “Covert Park,” Mount Bonnell is home to the highest point in Austin—a 775-foot limestone outcrop. It offers sweeping panoramas of the city, Lake Austin, and surrounding hills. The path to the top is easy (you can do it in flip flops) and consists of 102 steps that you can scale in 20 minutes.

On clear days, Mount Bonnell is the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the lake and share drinks with locals.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Moxy Austin – University is an eclectic-style hotel in the campus district less than 3 miles from Mount Bonnell. Share drinks with friends at the bar in the lobby.

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Visit the LBJ Presidential Library

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum pays tribute to the 36th president of the United States and is one of the most intriguing presidential libraries in the US. A 10-story tower on 30 acres within the University of Texas campus, the library houses historical artifacts and quirky exhibits from the ’60s and ’70s. 

Get a unique perspective of American history during President Johnson’s administration with exhibits like an in-depth study of the Vietnam War. You can also listen to LBJ’s recorded phone conversations, see a replica of his Oval Office, and laugh at jokes told by his life-size animatronic.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Austin – University Area offers easy access to attractions within the UT campus and 6th Street.

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Go Two-Stepping at the Broken Spoke

Ready to bring out the Texan in you? It’s time to go two-stepping. Two-stepping is a popular dance accompanied by country music and is one of Austin’s best pastimes. Head to the Broken Spoke to watch some live boot-scooting or try it yourself. They offer two-step lessons from Wednesdays to Saturdays so you can pick up a new dance skill to impress everyone back home.

After showing off your moves on the dance floor, enjoy an ice-cold beer and a plate of Spoke’s famous chicken-fried steaks.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Colton House Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel perfect for couples and solo travelers. Its rooms are spacious and modern and decorated with stunning artwork.

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Take a Spooky Tour in a Hearse

Skeptics and believers in the paranormal alike will enjoy the dark and ghostly tours Haunted ATX offers. See the eerie side of Austin in style with your friends in a converted hearse or a van covered in spooky art. You’ll visit historic locations and hear tales of the paranormal activity detected in these haunted landmarks. 

The tours typically last 3 hours, so it’s a complete experience, and you can bring your own drinks. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Rooms at Sonder at East 5th are fitted with large windows and simple but tasteful furniture. If you love big, open spaces that catch lots of sunlight, book a stay here. 

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Snap a Pic With the I Love You So Much Mural

The famous green wall of Jo’s Coffee bears a simple but beautiful message—the spray-painted words “I love you so much.”  It is a great spot to take cute photos if you’re visiting with your partner or pet. 

Located on the bustling South Congress Avenue, it gets pretty crowded here. Still, even on the busiest days, you’ll only have to wait about 15 minutes for your turn with the wall.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Hotel Magdalena has well-appointed rooms with a contemporary feel. The hotel’s ambiance is warm and welcoming, with bright southwestern-inspired decor, a poolside bar, and sundecks.

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Spend an Evening Watching Austin’s Famous Bats

If you’re visiting Austin in the summertime, don’t miss the magnificent sight of 1.5 million bats flying out from their home on the underside of Congress Avenue Bridge. One of its unique quirks, Austin is home to North America’s largest bat colony in an urban area. The Mexican free-tailed bats settled here after Congress Bridge’s 1980 renovation created crevices that made a safe bat refuge. Every evening at dusk, these nocturnal animals take off to rid the city of pesky insects like mosquitoes. 

Observe the bat show from the water on Lady Bird Lake for the best view, or watch safely from the Statesmen Bat Observation Center next to the bridge. The spectacle lasts about 45 minutes, but you can pair your viewing with other activities in the area. Downtown Austin is very lively, so there’s always something fun around.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: The LINE Austin is set in a modernist mid-century building that used to be a jazz club. Fitness enthusiasts can take part in the free yoga and fitness classes.

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Go Shopping at Allens Boots

Get a whiff of rich leather and the old west when you walk into Allens Boots on South Congress Avenue. With shelves holding thousands of pairs of cowboy boots made from exotic skins and premium leather, you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

Find what complements your boots by browsing their cowboy hats, Wrangler jeans, leather jackets, belts, and jewelry collection. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, don’t be shy to try on one or two booties. A visit to this vintage store selling premium footwear is an experience in itself.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: South Congress Hotel is a trendy hotel on South Congress Avenue in Austin. It offers several dining options, including an upscale Japanese cuisine restaurant.

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Attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival

Austin City Limits (ACL), Austin’s biggest music fest, is held every October in Zilker Park over two consecutive weekends. This event brings together over 100 big names and local artists. Enjoy the best of rock, pop, and hip-hop in an electrifying atmosphere. 

If you’re not visiting in October, enjoy live music at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater. Home to the award-winning “Austin City Limits” series, this theater seats over 2,700 people and is known for superb acoustics. If you can’t get seats to a show, book a tour of the venue. You’ll learn about ACL history and visit the Jack & Jim Gallery on the balcony. Tours typically last 90 minutes.

Nearby Recommended Hotel:The Driskill Hotel is a 15-minute walk to Moody Amphitheater. The hotel was built in the 19th century, and some rooms feature unique architectural details and furniture. There’s a bakery and grill house onsite that serve regional fare.

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The post The 13 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas appeared first on SmarterTravel.

These hotels are the best places in Miami to get a good night’s sleep after a day on the beach and a night at the clubs.

Mandarin Oriental

Brickell Key isn’t far from Miami, but its island location, slightly apart from downtown makes it feel a world away. The best Brickell Key hotel is the Mandarin Oriental, which offers a relaxing oasis.

Inside the hotel, guests will find walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and comfortable beds, along with some of the best views of Miami from their windows. When you want to experience the bustle and excitement of the city, you’re only a five-minute walk away from downtown Miami. 

If you want to stay in for a secluded getaway, the Mandarin’s private beach and extensive room service menu mean that you can enjoy a fantastic vacation without ever having to leave the property.

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Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables

Coral Gables is nicknamed “The City Beautiful,” and the Biltmore Hotel certainly lives up to that description. The hotel dates back to 1926, and a 2018 renovation has brought its features up to date without sacrificing any of the charms that make this place special. Marble columns and hand-painted décor create a magnificent atmosphere, and amenities include the largest hotel pool in the continental United States.

Along with the pool, you’ll find plenty of recreational activities on the property, including tennis courts, a salon, and a championship golf course. You’ll also find easy access to some cultural activities in Coral Gables, such as the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and the Lowe Art Museum. If you’re looking for more than the beach on your trip to Miami, this is one of your best options just south of the city.

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Nobu Hotel Miami Beach

Remember, Miami and Miami Beach are not the same place. South Beach sits a bridge away from Miami proper, which makes hotels on the beach prized for those who are looking for a beach trip out of their time in South Florida. The Nobu Hotel is one of the top options on Miami Beach because it sits just across from the sand, offering guests easy access to the waterfront whenever they want to check out the ocean.

On the property, guests can enjoy three outdoor pools, spacious rooms with fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean, luxurious tubs and showers, and some of the best culinary experiences in Miami. The hotel is home to Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s restaurant Nobu Miami, one of the best Japanese restaurants you’ll find anywhere. You’ll also have easy access to Miami Beach’s nightlife, making this one of the best hotels in Miami if you’re looking for the best of beach life and upscale experiences.

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The Setai

Deep relaxation in the lap of luxury is the name of the game at the Setai, which offers hand-made Duxiana beds, rainfall showers, and three hotel pools that are kept at different temperatures to ensure guests find the right one for their needs. This is the ideal spot to sleep off a long night on South Beach because you’re surrounded by luxurious items as well as an environment where everyone’s trying to get the most relaxing weekend they possibly can.

A stay at the Setai is definitely a splurge choice for your time on the beach, but if you really want to come to Miami to get away from the stress of daily life, this is the place to be.

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Shelborne South Beach

Getting a great hotel on South Beach doesn’t have break your vacation budget. The Shelborne South Beach proves that guests don’t have to sacrifice luxury for affordability as it offers direct beach access, heated pools, and comfortable beds and balconies in the rooms for cheap rates. The property underwent a full renovation in 2014 and now carries a modern Art Deco atmosphere that more than serves the needs of its guests.

With easy access to both the beach and the restaurants and nightclubs on Collins Avenue, this is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a cheap South Beach hotel.  

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Fontainebleau Miami Beach

The Fontainebleau is the original Miami Modern hotel, and it’s still one of the best. It’s been around since the 1950s, but its current version first appeared in 2008 as one of the top resort options available for South Beach travelers. You won’t ever have to leave Fontainebleau to experience the best of Miami Beach, as it’s home to LIV, one of the top clubs in the city, and Scarpetta, a famous Italian restaurant. 

Fontainebleau’s rooms cater to both the party crowd of South Beach as well as those who want to relax and get away from stress. Multiple towers feature different atmospheres, so you can customize the vacation vibe you want. Both the large pool and easy access to the beach make sure that this is one of the best hotels in Miami for anyone looking for some fun in the sun. 

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W South Beach

A 2020 renovation took what was already a popular hotel and made it into one of the best hotels in Miami Beach. W South Beach offers the largest rooms in South Beach, and each one provides a private balcony to allow guests to enjoy the sunshine while escaping from the crowds.

This hotel caters to art and culture lovers, as it sits right across the street from the Bass Museum of Art and the outdoor sculptures of Collins Park. The hotel offers its own collection of top-quality art, and a tour of W’s gallery is included as part of the resort fee. Head in the other direction, and you’ll run right into the main draw of Miami Beach: the beach itself.

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Four Seasons at the Surf Club

Palm trees in the corridors, clean and comfortable room designs, luxury bathrooms, and poolside service await you at the Four Seasons. This hotel’s the ideal choice for those who really want an escape, as it’s situated in the Surfside section of northern Miami Beach. That means you’re not going to find the party scene that you would on South Beach, which can be a good thing for those who want a calm, tranquil beach getaway.

If you’re looking to spend as much time in the water as possible, this is a great choice. Three pools, beach access, and an older clientele mean that you’ll be able to enjoy the beach without getting interrupted by the more boisterous scenes further south. 

Lido Restaurant and the Surf Club restaurant ensure that you’ll enjoy top-quality meals without having to leave the resort, and you’ll wake up to fantastic views of either the city or the ocean, depending on your room’s location.

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Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Have you ever wanted to spend a few days living like you’re in a movie? The Faena Hotel offers exactly that scene, as recent renovations made it look and feel more like something that belongs on the big screen as opposed to off the Atlantic Ocean. The bedrooms are bright and well-lit for enjoyment during the day, and the comfortable bedding makes for a restful night’s sleep when the day’s over.

The Faena’s best described as kind of an in-between spot as far as the South Beach party scene. It’s not as boisterous as the furthest south locations, but it’s not as quiet as the northern section of the beach. You’ll find elegance and touches of whimsy here, along with top-quality service and easy access to the beach.

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The National Hotel Miami Beach

Sometimes, you just want to get away from the kids and enjoy a weekend free of responsibilities and heavy on adult fun. The National Hotel is the best adults-only hotel in Miami. Previously, the National was known for its infinity pool as well as its beach access, but it’s now established itself as one of the few spots in Miami that is only open to adult guests.

Some of the recent property updates include a martini bar inside the hotel, an outdoor bar for beach guests, and a full restaurant inside the hotel. The infinity pool is still as majestic as ever, and guests can enjoy massages, ocean views, and quality-sized rooms in one of the more historic buildings on South Beach. It’s also situated just off Collins Avenue for easy access to nightlife and bars.

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The post The 10 Best Hotels in Miami, Florida appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Table of Contents

Click to explore the most beautiful places in each region.

1. Alberta
2. British Columbia
3. Manitoba
4. New Brunswick
5. Newfoundland and Labrador
6. Nova Scotia 
7. Ontario 
8. Prince Edward Island
9. Quebec
10. Saskatchewan
11. Northwest Territories
12. Nunavut
13. Yukon 

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Looking for a place to stay for your Canadian getaway? Find great deals at SmarterTravel Hotels.

Alberta 

Banff National Park     

Perhaps the most obvious place to start when discussing the most beautiful places in Canada is Banff National Park and its magnificent Lake Louise. Take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for an incredible view of some of the world’s most dramatic mountain scenery, then explore the park’s stunning waterfalls, forests, and glacier lakes, including vibrant Lake Louise, an unlike-anywhere-else oasis in the Canadian Rockies. 

Where to stay: Elegant Mount Royal Hotel has a Banff-themed library, rooftop hot tubs, a lobby museum, and modern decor that echoes the destination.  

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Jasper National Park   

Jasper is the Canadian Rockies’ biggest national park, and it’s packed with snow-covered peaks, translucent lakes, roaring waterfalls, inspiring highways, and large populations of wildlife including moose, caribou, wolves, and grizzlies. Step out onto the kilometer-long, 918-foot-high, glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk—if you dare. 

Where to stay: Airy Glacier View Lodge opened in summer 2019 and offers tours of the Athabasca Glacier, tall windows with views of icefields and steep mountains, gourmet dinners, and live musical performances every evening.  

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Abraham Lake  

When considering beautiful places to visit in Canada, don’t overlook Abraham Lake, on the Kootenay Plains’ North Saskatchewan River. Peer into its crystalline surface to see eerie methane bubble formations trapped in frozen bright blue water. These underwater oval towers of gas turn the manmade reservoir into a bucket-list destination for any Instagrammer worth his or her salt.  

Where to stay: It may be about 80 miles from Abraham Lake, but the epic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is worth the drive. This gilded resort showcases one of the prettiest places in Canada by way of lovely accommodations right on Lake Louise. Guests get to borrow bikes and canoes for a discounted rate.  

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British Columbia 

Victoria  

Victoria is British Columbia’s fairy tale-like capital—easily one of the most beautiful cities in Canada—and Butchart Gardens is the jewel in its flowery crown. Besides touring these enchanting gardens, things to do in Victoria include visiting the expansive Royal BC Museum, strolling salty Fisherman’s Wharf, and exploring idyllic Beacon Hill Park.

Where to stay: Victoria’s stately Fairmont Empress is famous for many things, its classic afternoon tea chief among them. Service and accommodations are as regal as you’d expect.  

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Vancouver Seawall 

The 17-mile Vancouver Seawall allows for one of the most exhilarating bike rides you’ll ever take. Ride (or walk) the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path for wide, glittering views of the Pacific and plenty of entry points into dynamic Stanley Park. Stop to enjoy the beaches and other fun surprises along the way. While in Vancouver, you may as well visit a couple more of the prettiest places in Canada: the immersive Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and 4,100-foot-high Grouse Mountain.

Where to stay: At the impressive Fairmont Waterfront, service is so bespoke that even your shampoo bottle is personalized with your name on it. 

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Whistler 

If you’re aiming to see the most beautiful places in Canada, you could do far worse than Whistler in winter. It’s got sheer white mountain peaks, world-class skiing and snowboarding, an inviting apres-ski village, zip-lines through snow-covered trees, and fantastic places to eat and sleep.   

Where to stay: For magical views, book Nita Lake Lodge, which has luxurious guest rooms, a spa, three restaurants, and a shuttle that takes you to the base of Whistler Mountain.  

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Glacier National Park  

Amid the massive Canadian Rockies is Canada’s own Glacier National Park and its jaw-dropping beauty. The namesake geographical features take the form of icefields, waterfalls, and brightly hued lakes, making for some of the most resplendent natural scenery on Earth.  

Where to stay: In the park, you can camp, use an RV, or book a hut or cabin. There are no hotels in Canada’s Glacier National Park, although the town of Revelstoke is nearby, and its Poppi’s Guesthouse hostel gets high marks for coziness, friendliness, and affordability.  

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Great Bear Rainforest 

Into wildlife adventures? The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the best places in Canada to see grizzly bears catching salmon in wild rivers, whales breaching, eagles soaring, and wolves roaming. In Klemtu on the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, you’ll find mossy forests, untamed fjords, and natural hot springs. As the name implies, ursines frolic everywhere, including the rare white “spirit bear.”

Where to stay: The indigenous-owned Spirit Bear Lodge offers exclusive access to wildlife-viewing areas and cultural sites within the Kitasoo Xai’xais territory. Accommodations are homey and dinners are communal.  

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Okanagan Valley

It seems like no list of beautiful places would be complete without a wine country. Okanagan Valley lies to the east of Vancouver is home to over 100 wineries, and accounts for more than 80% of the wine produced in British Columbia. Gorgeous lakes, vibrant green landscapes, and warm temperatures make for ideal scenery and climate for grape growing. Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, Covert Farms Family Estate and Silver Sage Estate Winery.  

Where to Stay: Rather than the usual hotel, Poppi’s Guesthouse is a boutique guesthouse with the coziness of a home—prepare your meals in a communal kitchen, relax on the second floor balcony, or borrow a bike to take a scenic ride along the river.  

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Yoho National Park 

The Kootenay Rockies’ Yoho National Park is named for the Cree word meaning “awe,” and it’s easy to see why—its imagery seems out of a movie. You’ll see intense blues and greens, dramatic peaks, the immense Takakkaw Falls, and gem-colored Emerald Lake, making this park one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Hiking trails and scenic drives let you take in the full force of this stunning wilderness. Don’t miss Yoho’s Burgess Shale, a paleontological jackpot containing 500-million-year-old fossils of more than 120 types of marine animals.

Where to stay: The historic, cabin-style Emerald Lake Lodge has balconies and wood-burning fireplaces right on the shores of the famous lake, amid towering mountains.  

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Manitoba 

Cape Churchill  

Cape Churchill, Manitoba, is the polar bear capital of the world. If your idea of impressive scenery involves endless stretches of ice and dozens of polar bears striding across it, head up to the Arctic to experience one of the most beautiful places in Canada. In October and November, Hudson Bay freezes over and thousands of polar bears migrate to its ice, although climate change is already taking effect. Local tour guides in tundra rovers get you up close to see the endangered white creatures.  

Where to stay: At Churchill’s Lazy Bear Lodge, accommodations are simple but comfortable. It’s a rustic log cabin with a huge stone fireplace and a location that’s walking distance from town. The lodge’s beluga whale tour is highly recommended.  

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New Brunswick 

Fundy National Park  

Fundy National Park, on the Bay of Fundy, has the world’s highest and lowest tides. This means that you can walk out onto the ocean floor during low tide, then kayak alongside landforms like the must-see Hopewell Rocks when the Atlantic refloods the bay. Elsewhere in the park, hike through the Acadian Forest to see dozens of lovely waterfalls, explore sea caves, attend festivals and outdoor concerts, or drive Fundy Trail Parkway to see some of the prettiest places in Canada.

Where to stay: Fundy National Park has three hip campgrounds, as well as Fundy Highlands Motel, which offers simple, comfortable, dog-friendly chalets right on the bay.  

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Gros Morne National Park  

The iconic image of Gros Morne National Park is Western Brook Pond, whose name makes it sound small. It’s actually a massive freshwater fjord around which dramatic cliffs plunge into a glacier-formed gorge. Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also home to the Tablelands, a geological rarity where earthquakes have forced the earth’s mantle up for all to see. There’s also Green Point—sheer cliffs full of ancient sea fossils—as well as waterfalls, dwarf forests, moose and caribou, and Gros Morne Mountain, which is among the planet’s oldest peaks.

Where to stay: Neddies Harbour Inn, a boutique property in the national park, provides unbeatable views over the Bonne Bay fjord, as well as a peaceful atmosphere and an excellent restaurant.  

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Nova Scotia 

Cabot Trail  

Nova Scotia’s 185-mile Cabot Trail loops around Cape Breton Island, making for one of North America’s most memorable drives. In addition to providing gorgeous coastal views, the highway takes you to small fishing villages, the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, golf courses, museums, galleries, and artisan boutiques. It also passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where moose, bears, and eagles roam, and where autumn’s vivid colors secure Cabot Trail’s spot among the prettiest places in Canada.

Where to stay: Keltic Lodge is a historic, well-appointed resort right on the Atlantic in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Amenities include in-room fireplaces, verandahs, a golf course, a heated swimming pool, and a satisfying restaurant.  

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Ontario 

Niagara Falls 

Niagara Falls isn’t just one of the most beautiful places in Canada—it’s one of the most beautiful places in the whole world. And though Americans tend to think of it as a U.S. attraction (of course), the Canadian view of the famous falls is actually even better. Come in summer to be treated to nightly fireworks over the mist.

Where to stay: The city around Niagara Falls is pretty touristy, so it’s worth the effort to drive about 13 miles north to a charming little town called Niagara-on-the-Lake and its elegant Charles Hotel, where guest rooms have fireplaces, private verandahs gaze over Lake Ontario, gardens bloom with flowers, and service is superlative.  

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CN Tower 

Those in search of Canadian urban wonders can look no further than the CN Tower, the defining feature of Toronto‘s skyline, punctuating postcards all over Ontario. The tower’s observation deck has glass floors, its 360 Restaurant rotates, and its heart-pounding EdgeWalk lets you strap in and hang off a five-foot-wide ledge more than 1,000 feet high. This iconic structure is prettiest when it illuminates after dark.

Where to stay: The Shangri-La Hotel, set in a 66-floor glass-encased skyscraper, epitomizes modern luxury with its artistic decor, high-tech amenities, and hammam-inspired spa. And it’s within easy distance of the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada.  

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Prince Edward County  

Prince Edward County, a detached peninsula on Lake Ontario’s north shore, is ideal for both beach lovers and oenophiles. The region’s limestone bedrock makes for great wine grapes, which is why there are more than 40 vineyards here. There are also expansive fields of sunflowers and lavender, more than a dozen breweries, hundreds of farms, and plenty of talented chefs who put all this local bounty to good use. PEC was relatively unknown until recently, when it gained something of a buzz among urbanites, artists, gourmands, and hipsters.  

Where to stay: The colorful Drake Motor Inn opened in spring 2019, full of whimsy and modernized nostalgia. Its 12 rooms are all retro-chic, and the entire property pays playful tribute to the bygone days of road travel.  

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Prince Edward Island 

Prince Edward Island National Park  

Prince Edward Island National Park is easily one of the most beautiful places in Canada, especially its windswept Greenwich section. Visitors can explore red sand beaches, wavy dunes, mystical forests, boardwalk trails, and the idyllic places that formed the setting for L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables.

Where to stay: Dalvay by the Sea, a national historic site on the north shore, was built in 1895 in Queen Anne Revival style. Its 25 rooms—each one unique—remain furnished in antiques from that ornate era.  

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Victoria-by-the-Sea  

Victoria-by-the-Sea is a storybook village full of small-town seaside charm, including a photogenic lighthouse, red sand beaches, and artisan shops and galleries. Historically known for its fishermen, it’s now more populated by artists and creatives who leave an inspired mark on their lovely municipality.  

Where to stay: The historic Orient Hotel is an inviting bed and breakfast that provides wonderful views of the water from almost every guest room. 

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Quebec 

Old Montreal  

Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada—and one of the most interesting, too, what with its amalgam of European and North American culture and engaging attractions like Olympic Park’s Biodome and Botanical Garden. The prettiest part of the city, however, is Old Montreal, founded as a French colony in 1642, with intricate architecture to match. If you ever feel like going to Europe without crossing the Atlantic, visit Old Montreal’s resplendent Notre-Dame Basilica, browse its stately Bonsecours Market, gawk at its colonial-era mansions, and watch the St. Lawrence River’s dynamic Old Port at work. 

Where to stay: The newish Four Seasons Montreal puts forth its brand’s usual level of service and comfort—which is to say, it’s an excellent place to stay. Adding to the appeal is its central location in the Golden Square Mile, its fine cuisine, and its proximity to high-end shopping at Holt Renfrew Ogilvy.  

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Quebec City  

Ask Canadians which is the most beautiful city in Canada, and most will respond the same way: Quebec City. It’s hard to overstate how magical this French-speaking town is—its fairy-tale charm pervades every cobblestone street. Quebec City, the only fortified city north of Mexico, also features colonial-era architecture, the bustling St. Lawrence River, and a rich, palpable history. It boasts four distinct seasons, each more beautiful than the next. Just outside of town, Montmorency Falls is almost 100 feet taller than any of Niagara’s three falls, making for a truly underrated natural wonder.

Where to stay: The Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is the world’s most photographed hotel for good reason: Its legendary castle-on-a-hill look makes it an icon of Old Quebec. The elegance continues inside, in terms of both decor and hospitality par excellence.  

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Mont-Tremblant 

A popular ski destination, Mont-Tremblant has a European flair that, outside of Europe, you can only find in Quebec. Eighty miles northwest of Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is one of the top ski destinations in North America. There is something for everyone at Mont-Tremblant, you can shop, ski, ride a gondola, ice skate- all while taking in the glorious scenery around you. You must be sure to visit le P’tit Caribou, which is considered one of the best apres ski spots in the world. 

Where to Stay: Le Grand Lodge is a Scandinavian-style log hotel that has everything you need for the perfect vacation to enjoy the mountains: a restaurant, bar and spa for when you want to wind down, a free shuttle to the ski village, ski rentals, and more. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate daily from 4-5 after a day of skiing. 

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Saskatchewan 

Grasslands National Park  

Saskatchewan’s Grasslands National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada, but in a bit of an unexpected sense: The grandness here isn’t so much village charm or even distinctive nature attractions. It’s more the vast golden prairies, the open country, the huge skies, and the roaming herds of bison that provide their own type of wild gorgeousness. One great way to take it all in is via a brand-new scenic road called the Badlands Parkway. Perk up your Instagram feed with photos of the park’s iconic red Adirondack chairs, or scour the hoodoo spires for dinosaur fossils.

Where to stay: Sky Story Bed & Breakfast in nearby Val Marie earns high marks for its warm hospitality, delicious breakfasts, and friendly cats.  

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Northwest Territories 

Great Slave Lake  

If seeing the northern lights is on your bucket list, plan to visit Yellowknife and Great Slave Lake, in the Northwest Territories. In winter, this remote Arctic region transforms into one of the most beautiful places in Canada, thanks to its position north of the 60th parallel, placing it firmly inside the aurora oval. This, plus a flat landscape far from the ocean, makes Yellowknife one of the world’s best places to see nature’s most spectacular light show. Prepare to see deep, glowing greens and purples dominating the skies over North America’s deepest lake.  

Where to stay: Blachford Lake Lodge is an eco-conscious wilderness resort where you can see the auroras from your bed, the hot tub, or the dining room. You can also take igloo-building workshops.  

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Nunavut 

Baffin Island  

Baffin Island, above the Arctic Circle, is Canada’s largest island—it’s bigger than Great Britain. But it’s among the prettiest places in Canada because of Auyuittuq National Park, where icy fjords and glaciers dominate the landscape with their intense blues and bright whites. This surreal expanse of tundra is home to wildlife like you’ve never seen: narwhal, ringed seals, snow geese, Arctic foxes, caribou, and, yes, polar bears.  

Where to stay: The Frobisher Inn is the largest full-service business hotel in the Eastern Arctic, and is also the perfect family hotel—with two restaurants, a cafe, and a fitness center. 

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Yukon 

Whitehorse Region  

The Yukon is full of beautiful places to visit in Canada, and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a thrilling way to take them in. This scenic narrow-gauge railway was built in the late 1800s for the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, it still connects Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon’s capital city. The memorable ride takes passengers, many of them on shore excursions from Alaska cruises, into wide expanses of rugged scenery, over and through impossible bridges and tunnels, and past wildflower-packed meadows, waterfalls, and glaciers at a speed that allows appreciation for the sheer magnitude of it all.  

Where to stay: Northern Lights Resort & Spa, true to its name, is well positioned to see the winter aurora borealis. Book a glass chalet or a log cabin and enjoy this much-loved B&B’s saunas, warm hospitality, and highly personalized service.  

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Mandarin Oriental Boston

Awarded both the prestigious Forbes Five-Stars and AAA Five-Diamonds ratings, the Mandarin Oriental is the epitome of luxury. The hotel’s Boylston Street location will put you firmly in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood—and it’s directly connected to the Prudential Center, so you can shop and dine without having to set foot outside. 

Rooms at the Mandarin Oriental are surprisingly spacious for an urban hotel, starting at 410 square feet, and outfitted in a chic Art Deco style. 

Make sure to schedule a treatment at the hotel’s famous 16,000 square-foot spa for the ultimate in pampering before you go.

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The Liberty Hotel 

Ever spent the night in prison? You can say you have after sleeping at The Liberty Hotel. Of course, accommodations in this former historic prison turned luxury hotel are a million times more comfortable than a jail cell (but you’ll still find playful nods to its past in the decor throughout). 

The hotel’s aptly named restaurants and bars (Clink, Alibi, and The Yard) attract a vibrant mix of locals and tourists practically every night of the week. The Catwalk (located on the jail’s original Catwalk) is a guest-only bar that offers an unbeatable perch for people-watching.

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The Newbury Boston  

Opened in 1927 as one of the first Ritz-Carlton hotels in the US, this historic property was transformed in 2018 to reopen as the revamped and rebranded The Newbury Boston. Nestled on the edge of the Boston Public Garden, many rooms here offer stunning park views. In the winter, book a Classic Fireplace Suite which features a romantic wood-burning fireplace. 

Make a reservation at the hotel’s Contessa restaurant when you book your stay—seatings for this highly-acclaimed Italian eatery fill up a month in advance.

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The Colonnade Hotel Boston 

Hotels with pools are scarce in Boston (which makes sense, as swimming season is a few short months here.) However, if you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll want to book The Colonnade Hotel as its crown jewel is the property’s gorgeous outdoor rooftop pool. The pool is surrounded by private cabanas and offers a summer experience that’s impossible to find anywhere else in the city. 

When you’re done sunning and swimming, the hotel’s central Back Bay location is primed for exploring.  

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W Boston 

Catching a show in Boston? The W Hotel is the best hotel in the Theater District. The hotel recently underwent a $10 million renovation, and the property looks brand-new. Rooms at the hotel were “inspired by notorious Boston disruptors, from Aerosmith to Edgar Allan Poe,” says the W.

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Boston Marriott Long Wharf 

The Boston Marriott Long Wharf holds an iconic spot directly on Boston Harbor. Take advantage of the location by booking one of the luxury waterfront suites that feature a balcony with stunning harbor views. 

Can’t swing a suite? Treat yourself to a meal at the hotel’s Waterline restaurant, which offers equally amazing scenery. 

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Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport 

With 1,054 guest rooms and suites, the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is one of the biggest in Boston. The Omni Seaport is another rare Boston hotel with an outdoor pool—this one is located on the fifth-floor rooftop and offers gorgeous views of the city skyline. The open-air Lifted Pool Bar & Grill serves up cocktails and a food menu from 11 am – 9 pm daily. 

The Omni Seaport puts a priority on wellness. Maintain your workout routine in the 3,000 square foot gym that’s stocked with Peloton Bikes, TRX stations, and more. Or, focus on self-care with a trip to the full-service Breve Spa.

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Cambria Hotel Boston

The Cambria Hotel is a popular destination for locals in the warm weather who flock to the hotel’s rooftop for a buzzy nightlife scene, creative cocktails, and epic city views. Book a room here to be close to both the rooftop action and the lively South Boston neighborhood next door. 

The Cambria is located right across the street from a T station, so you’ll be able to easily hop on the red line to explore the city.

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Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street 

One Dalton Street, a 61-story skyscraper that opened in 2019, was the tallest building to be built in Boston since the John Hancock Tower went up in 1976. The tower houses the Four Seasons Hotel and the brand’s luxury residential apartments. 

Rooms are as luxurious as you would expect from the Four Seasons, starting at 397 square feet. The suites really shine here, featuring large soaking tubs set in front of floor-to-ceiling windows and private outdoor decks overlooking Boston.

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Boston Park Plaza 

Stay in a piece of Boston’s history (but with modern amenities) at the Boston Park Plaza. The property opened in 1927 as The Statler Hotel and hosted dignitaries and celebrities including Winston Churchill and Judy Garland. When the Park Plaza opened, rooms cost as little as $3.50 a night—today, you can find rooms for as low as $114 per night in the off-season. 

The Boston Park Plaza underwent a $100 million renovation in 2016 that updated and modernized the property while still retaining the historic touches it’s so famous for. 

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Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront

Set on the Boston Harbor just outside the city’s famous North End neighborhood, the Battery Wharf Hotel boasts one of the best locations in Boston. A stay here will put you near the North End’s Italian restaurants, touristy Faneuil Hall, and the TD Garden. 

Many rooms offer waterfront views, and all rooms have windows that can open so you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze—a rarity for hotels. 

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The Ritz Carlton Boston 

Just steps from the Boston Common, newly renovated rooms at The Ritz-Carlton offer park or city views along with large marble soaking tubs, Bose radios, and Frette linens. An in-house Bath Butler can draw a selection of relaxing baths upon demand for total relaxation. 

Continue the relaxation with The Ritz-Carlton’s spa (run in conjunction with Equinox Sports Club) which offers a range of facials, massages, and treatments. 

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The Verb Hotel

If you’re catching a game or concert at Fenway Park, you can’t stay any closer than The Verb Hotel, which overlooks the storied ballpark. Originally a motor inn, The Verb has been completely redone into a stylish musically-themed boutique hotel. 

Music-lovers will find more than 1,700 vinyl records in the lobby library, Audio-Technica Record Turntables in the rooms, and rock n’ roll art throughout. 

Party like a rockstar and then sleep in late the next day—rooms at The Verb feature blackout blinds and the lobby is stocked with nitro-brewed coffee 24/7.

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Moxy Boston Downtown

Looking for a kid-free Boston vacation? The Moxy Boston Downtown bills itself as “Boston’s first adult playground,” and guests are greeted with a complimentary signature cocktail upon check-in. You’ll have to be 21 or over to stay at this party-focused hotel that’s for adults only. 

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The Row Hotel 

Formerly a Ford Motor Assembly Plant and now a thoroughly modern hotel, The Row Hotel offers affordable rates just outside of Boston. Located in Somerville’s Assembly Square neighborhood, a new outdoor shopping mall set on the banks of the Mystic River, the hotel is within easy walking distance to a huge number of shops and eateries. If you want to venture into Boston, the nearby T stop makes it easy.

With its location near Legoland and an indoor pool, The Row Hotel is a great pick for family trips to Boston.

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The post The 15 Best Hotels in Boston appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Since no one wants to spend their European vacation stuck in their room steaming clothing, look for fabrics that resist wrinkles (and odors, so that you can get multiple wears out of one dress).

These are the best travel-friendly dresses to pack for Europe.

Carve Designs Lexi Dress

A mid-weight dress with long sleeves, like the Lexi Dress by Carve Designs, is perfect for sun protection or cooler nights. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, the Lexi Dress is breathable and comfortable no matter if you’re walking all day or sitting on a plane.

Details like a slight boat neck and small side slits add extra style to the dress, and the style comes in a variety of eye-catching colors that help set this dress apart. 

Toad & Co Cue Wrap Short Sleeve Dress

Wrap dresses are fashionable but a terrible idea on a windy day. Get all the style of a wrap dress (with the comfort of a low-maintenance t-shirt dress) with Toad & Co’s Cue Wrap Dress. 

The dress features a faux wrap design and a self-tie belt that gives you the option for a custom fit. Made from an organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell blend fabric, the Cue dress offers the perfect amount of stretch and structure. 

Coolibar Tierra Tank Dress

Summers in Europe can be extremely hot, so if you’re spending the day outside, make sure you’re protecting yourself from the sun. There’s no more stylish way to get your UPF protection than with Coolibar’s Tierra Tank Dress.

Made from a special soft and stretchy knit fabric, this dress blocks up to 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays. 

Columbia Plus Size Freezer III Dress

Air conditioning may be hard to find in Europe, but you can still stay cool in Columbia’s Freezer III Dress. The dress utilizes Columbia’s trademarked Omni-Freeze technology, which helps lower skin surface temperature when it gets wet, keeping you from overheating when you start sweating.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes up to 3X, so all travelers can wear this dress.  

Carve Designs Lyla Dress

Pack a versatile dress that will work on the beach or a bike ride, like Carve Design’s Lyla Dress. Made from recycled plastic bottles, this dress is quick-drying and resists wrinkles. A built-in shelf bra means there’s one less thing for you to have to pack.

The lightweight material is super stretchy and quick-drying, so this dress will still look good even after a day of exploration.

Toad & Co Sunkissed Maxi Dress

Toad & Co’s Eco Kohilo fabric is simply magical. Made from mostly recycled polyester, it’s easy on the environment—and easy to pack since it folds down small and is wrinkle-proof (no matter how tightly you rolled it up). Find it in the Sunkissed Maxi Dress, which is ultra-lightweight, yet offers plenty of coverage (plus UPF 40 sun protection).

Two on-seam hand pockets make this dress perfect for travel, giving you a discreet place to stash things like your phone or keys. 

Zella Departure Travel Dress

Keep things simple with a classic little black dress that will look at home wherever you go. Zella’s version, the Departure Travel Dress, is designed for travel thanks to a fabric that resists wrinkles and keeps you looking polished.

This dress can be paired with sneakers during the day for a more casual look or with sandals for a fancy night out.

The post The 7 Best Travel Dresses for Europe appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The excursions, tours, performances, and other activities you experience on your travels can make or break a trip. No one wants to be disappointed when an activity booking doesn’t work out or turns out not to be what you though it was—so you’ll want to be able to search offerings, and preferably to compare ratings of them. Plus, it’s essential to make sure you’re booking with reputable ticket websites offering reasonable prices. 

The Best Excursion Ticket Websites for Travelers

Here are seven ticket websites and providers that won’t let you down. Click to read more.

Viator
GetYourGuide
Tripadvisor
StubHub
Airbnb Experiences
Atlas Obscura
Tiqets
Groupon

Viator

Owned by TripAdvisor, Viator is a vast activity and excursion ticket website; one of the largest out there. Travelers can book anything from airport shuttle service, to guided tours, to skip-the-line admission at attractions all over the world. And because it’s similar to TripAdvisor, travelers can also browse reviews of the activity they’re eyeing. Most listings include comprehensive details about the tour and a generous cancellation policy (usually 24-hours prior to the activity with no penalty).

Viator does not operate the tours it sells. Rather, it’s a search engine of things to do. As such, its offerings tend to focus on cities and better-known travel destinations, although that includes excursions out of those places into the surrounding areas; like tours from Boston to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, tours of the Dutch countryside from a departure point in Amsterdam, etc. This makes Viator a great option for travelers who want to headquarter themselves in one hotspot but still experience the broader region. 

GetYourGuide

Another day-tour-heavy option, GetYourGuide overlaps somewhat with Viator, but is focused more solely on experiences and tours (Viator includes services such as airport and in-town transportation services). Functionally, the sites aren’t very different; both offer an opportunity to compare tours and prices. And on that last note, it can be worth checking both: I found the exact same Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto on both sites. GetYourGuide allowed guests to book the base tour without the optional lunch and boat cruise for just $79, while Viator required guests to book the entire package for $138.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor leverages its massive inventory of user generated content to roll the research and booking process into one. Users can access all the standard tour information—such as age range, duration, start time, and language—while also browsing reviews and real-life photos from travelers who have actually booked the activity. The experience pages also feature what percentage of travelers would recommend a given activity, based on the “percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher.” The authenticity of the one-to-one style recommendations and opinions of fellow travelers can help give users the confidence to book.

Travelers without a specific landmark or tour in mind can also search for activities organized into top destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and Washington D.C.

StubHub

For more event-focused resale ticket website StubHub is a useful last-minute option for verified tickets to everything from sports and concerts to comedy shows and theater seats. For the uninitiated, StubHub is a resale marketplace for ticket holders (and, let’s be honest, scalpers) to unload tickets they can’t use. This means shopping on StubHub is a double-edged sword: You’ll likely pay well above face value for high-demand or sold out events, but you can also find great deals at the last minute if the opposite is true. In the former case, StubHub (or similar initial-sale and resale option Ticketmaster) may be your only viable option. And in the latter case, StubHub can be a savvy way to save or even make some money; keep that in mind if you’ve ever bought some event tickets and then couldn’t attend.

Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb is all about living like a local, and Airbnb Experiences is no different. The emphasis here is on small or even private tours led by locals rather than tour companies, with an eye toward unique experiences rather than traditional sightseeing. Sometimes these experiences can be tailored to your interests: I booked a private bicycle tour of Berlin through Airbnb Experiences a few years back, and the guide all but ditched his preset itinerary and improvised based on my interests. As a result I got to see parts of the city I might never have found on my own. 

One important consideration to remember: These are often regular folks, not full-time professional guides or tour operators, so it’s a good idea to bring a go-with-the-flow attitude on your excursion. Your experience may not be as polished or precise as a traditional tour, even if the host has been doing this for a while. Of course, the point of these experiences is to forgo those cookie cutter tours in favor of something different. AirBnB includes reviews and makes it easy to communicate with the experience host beforehand, so don’t hesitate to ask questions prior to booking.

Atlas Obscura

Speaking of forgoing the cookie cutter experience, Atlas Obscura focuses, as its name implies, on all things obscure: The bizarre, forgotten, and hard-to-reach corners of a given city or destination that you wouldn’t normally find on excursion ticket websites. While nowhere near as robust as the other entries on this list, Atlas Obscura also offers a curated selection of tours and experiences. It’s currently in a half dozen U.S. cities, with more to come. Think: A guided wine-and-bug (yes, insects) pairing experience in Los Angeles, or a trip inside a holographer (maker of holograms) laboratory in New York. The tours are offered through Atlas Obscura, but AirBnB handles the booking. After all, anyone can visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, right? So why not be different and check out a … Sewage Garden? 

Tiqets

Launched in 2014, Amsterdam-based company Tiqets is a comparatively newer ticketing platform that emphasizes flexibility and convenience. Optional free cancellation polices are available on all bookings, allowing travelers to cancel tickets up to 11:59PM the night before the event. Tiqets also offers last minute deals on activities and events like palace tours, broadway shows, and city sightseeing tours. Browse by location or get inspired by their list of Most Popular Places to Visit. Tickets can be managed through their app (iOS | Android).

Groupon

With a broader focus than the other sites on this list, Groupon can find great deals on everything from guided tours to restaurants at your destination. To search specifically for event tickets and travel activities, enter your destination in the search bar and browse their Things to Do category, which includes subcategories like Kids’ Activities, Nightlife, and Sports & Outdoors. From there, travelers can filter by price range, distance from the main destination, rating, and season.

Users can also browse via their Hotels & Travel section to book an entire trip via Groupon Getaways.

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The post The 8 Best Ticket Websites for Booking Day Tours and Travel Activities appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Uppsala

Uppsala, an academic city centering around Uppsala University, is steeped in history, and like most of Sweden, that includes the Vikings. Uppsala has a quaint, yet vibrant feel to it that a lot of university towns have: it’s lively, with a fantastic area for shopping and eating right along the river, yet as you walk around the town, you may suddenly find yourself looking at a runestone, or looking at a Viking helmet. Old Uppsala, where the center was located until the building of the Uppsala Cathedral, is a short train ride away and has an immersive experience for learning about the Vikings. 

Gustavianum at University of Uppsala

Currently closed for renovations, Gustavianum houses the university’s archeological artifacts for public viewing. The university has a range of Viking objects, from helmets to jewels and weapons. A large Viking exhibition is slated to open in June 2024.

Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala) 

Originally the center of the city, Gamla Uppsala housed a pagan temple and served as a burial ground for royal Vikings. Today, there is an interactive museum on the site that features a VR experience that allows you to step back in time to old Uppsala and see the area as it looked over a thousand years ago. You can also dress up in Viking clothes, complete with a helmet! Old Uppsala is also home to the royal mounds, which date back to the 5th and 6th centuries and are graves of royal Vikings. Stroll the grounds and view the large burial mounds, and, if you’re up for it, walk the Eriksleden trail, which lends stunning views of Uppsala, and winds its way along the Fyris River. 

Gunnes Gård 

Located less than 30 miles south of Uppsala, Gunnes Gård, a living history open-air museum is on the site of an old Viking farm from the 11th century. The buildings were built where archaeologists found foundations of the original buildings, so you can really get a feel of the actual layout of what an iron-age farm was like. Kids and grownups will love visiting with the hens, pigs, cows, and sheep that live on the farm. While there is no cafe on site, guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, and there is typically a fire burning that guests are welcome to use to cook sausages or other meats to eat while onsite. You’ll also find Bronze Age cairns, burial grounds from the Iron Age, and several rune stones throughout the grounds. Saturdays at 11 a.m., April through October, there are 20-minute shows put on, each with a different theme including house and reconstruction, farm animals, runes, and more.

Stockholm

Stockholm, a city made up of 14 islands, features a bustling Old Town (Gamla Stan), the original city center, filled with shops and restaurants. One of the city’s islands, Djurgården, houses most of the city’s museums, including Vasa, which displays a ship that sank during its first sailing in the 17th century, a children’s literature museum, and of course, a Viking museum. Stockholm became a hub post-Viking era but still houses many Viking-related attractions. 

Viking Museum

For a fully immersive experience, you must visit the Viking Museum located on Djurgården. Wander the exhibits to learn more about the Vikings and view artifacts from the Viking age. One of the highlights of the museum is the ride Ragnfrid’s Saga, which takes visitors on a Viking journey through Europe and back in the 10th century. The museum includes a gift shop that promotes local, artisanal, and fair trade products, as well as a restaurant. Guided tours are available in English, while audio tours are available in nine different languages. Though not Viking related, the Viking Museum is located along the water, along with the Spirit Museum (alcohol, not ghosts), Vasa Museum (featuring a fully intact 17th century ship), and Junibacken- a museum dedicated to Swedish children’s literature (Pippi Longstocking fans must not miss it!) 

Aifur – Viking Tavern

The moment you step through the enticing entrance to Aifur, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time. The dark hall aligned with candles leads you to your host, who will ask your name and where you are from. He will then blow a horn an​​d announce your arrival to the crowd that is dining, which typically is followed with cheers and applause. Wooden benches and candles scattered throughout the restaurant add to the vibe. Enjoy traditional Viking food like King Björns Gillesgös at Birkavis (goose, one of the most common meals during the Viking age),  Tore Hjort’s hunting prey with raw lingonberries (venison), as well as vegetarian options, and of course, dessert! You can keep it traditional by ordering a glass of mead to enjoy with your food as well. 

Birka and Hovgården

Once the hub of the trading world of the Vikings, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Birka and Hovgarden are peaceful remnants of the Viking age. To get to Birka, book a day trip with Stromma with departures from Stockholm. The two-hour boat ride drops you off for a five-hour visit on Birka, where you can take a guided tour of the 17-acre island, explore the museum, and get a bite to eat at the restaurant. There are over 3,000 burial sites on Birka, including the 1878 excavation of a Viking warrior believed to be a male until 2017 when DNA proved otherwise. The museum has an exhibit dedicated to her, as well as other Vikings buried on the island. Unlike Birka, Hovgarden is accessible via car, however, there are ferries available to and from Birka. Hovgarden was home to the Viking palace, and you are able to see the ruins, as well as burial mounds.

The post Discover the Hidden History of Vikings in Sweden appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Picture this instead: a summer vacation somewhere equally beautiful—except you have it practically all to yourself. Google Flights released data showing the most-searched for destinations for June, July, and August, and we’re thinking of it as a list of places to avoid this summer.

That doesn’t mean you have to miss out if you want to travel during peak season. Instead, we’ve compiled a list of the best under-the-radar alternatives to crowded summer destinations, so you can have all the good food and scenery without fighting through busloads of tourists.

Instead of London: Bristol, England

King Charles’ coronation in May put London at the top of mind for many travelers. If you’d rather immerse yourself among locals instead of tourists, head to Bristol for the ultimate British city getaway. Small Bristol hosts an incredibly diverse food scene and is full of unique shops and restaurants. In fact, Gloucester Road, Bristol’s main street, is said to have the highest concentration of independent businesses in the United Kingdom. 

Bristol will also give you a taste of English country life alongside your city break. This outdoorsy destination straddling the River Avon has plenty of opportunities for sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, walking, and biking. 

Instead of Cancún: Holbox, Mexico

Just off the north coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula lies Holbox, a small and peaceful island alternative to crowded Cancún. Holbox is full of amazing natural attractions—it’s one of the best places in the Caribbean to swim with whale sharks. Although the sharks look large and intimidating, their tiny teeth only allow them to eat small fish and plants (not humans).

Holbox is also one of the few places in the world where you witness the bioluminescent phenomenon—the waters around the island light up at night with a special glow.

Instead of Paris: Ljubljana, Slovenia

Charming cobblestone streets, stone bridges, and sidewalk cafes—visiting Ljubljana feels like Paris except it’s cheaper, cleaner, and less touristy. The city is so appealing that it was voted the Best Destination in Europe for 2022 and was the Green Capital of Europe in 2016.

Pedestrianized streets in the heart of the city beg visitors to stroll down them, popping into shops and sipping spritzes at terraces along the brilliantly green Ljubljanica River. 

Ljubljana is home to a big student population, which gives the city a lively energy (and helps keep things affordable).

Instead of Orlando: Tampa, Florida

Get the theme park thrills on a budget (and with way fewer lines) by heading to Tampa instead of Orlando. Tampa has two great amusement parks located right next to each other: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island water park. 

Home to pristine Clearwater Beach, Tampa has plenty of free outdoor activities that don’t require a theme park ticket. 

Instead of Rome: Peljesac Peninsula, Croatia

Intrepid Travel’s Rome to Amalfi is one of the company’s most-booked tours for American travelers this summer. Since Rome was the fifth-most searched destination on Google Flights for the season, you can definitely expect crowds.

Ivan Svacov, Intrepid Deputy Operations Manager, Southeast Europe, recommends Croatia’s Pelijesac peninsula as a less-visited European alternative. “Being Croatian I would naturally start with praising the unmatched beauty of the Adriatic coast,” extols Svacov. “Peljesac peninsula was recently connected to the mainland for the first time with a bridge and has become even more accessible.”

Svacov cites the region’s wineries, famous seafood, and outdoor sports (including windsurfing in Vinjerac and hiking) as reasons to visit.

Instead of New York City: Chicago, Illinois

Even New Yorkers don’t want to be in the city in the summer—locals flock to seaside destinations like the Hamptons in an effort to escape the stifling heat. Chicago’s lakefront location makes it the better choice for an urban vacation.

Chicago comes alive in the summer as locals embrace the sunshine after a long cold winter. With fun events like the Hyde Park Summer Fest and the Old Town Art Fair happening nearly every week, you’ll never be bored in the summer. 

Outdoor patios and rooftops open for the summer, expanding the city’s famous dining scene even further.

Instead of Las Vegas: Palm Springs, California

You can still have casinos, hotel pool parties, and live shows—just without the crowds—if you choose Palm Springs over Las Vegas. This resort town has more of a relaxing, luxurious vibe compared to Vegas’ glitzy party city reputation, but you’ll still find plenty of action here. 

Palm Springs boasts world-class golf courses, five-star restaurants, and natural hot springs that will appeal to every type of traveler.

Instead of Tokyo: Seoul, Korea

Your dollar will go far in both Tokyo and Seoul, but you’ll find the best value for your money in South Korea’s capital. The vibrant city of Seoul has plenty to explore, from a thriving food scene (with options for any budget) to ancient culture and modern art.

Seoul’s public transportation system is consistently named one of the best in the world—it’s clean, fast, and affordable, making it easy to explore the outer reaches of the city. 

Instead of Seattle: Portland, Oregon

Seattle may be bigger in size, but Portland is the better bet for visitors looking for an eclectic city experience. Portland’s small size and unique neighborhoods make it extremely walkable (or bikeable, thanks to an extensive network of cycling lanes) and you’ll be sure to discover a charming coffee shop or boutique bookstore on every corner as you wander.

Nicknamed the City of Roses, Portland is at its best in the summer, when the city’s lush green spaces and gardens are in bloom. 

Sit outside at a microbrewery patio and sample the suds from one of the best beer scenes in the country, catch a live show from an indie band, or take a road trip to one of the many national parks nearby. 

Instead of Miami: Fort Myers, Florida

If you want the laid-back Florida vibe without the Miami traffic and crowds, head north to Fort Myers. 

Jackie Parker, Communications Manager for Lee County CVB, tells SmarterTravel, that Fort Myers is the perfect vacation spot if you’re looking for solitude. “There’s plenty of room to explore at a more laid-back pace,” says Parker. Think: “Sunset cruises on the Gulf of Mexico, fresh grouper sandwiches at your choice of restaurants, and unique places to shop.”

Tips for Escaping the Crowds This Summer

Still scrambling to find an affordable summer vacation? Laura Burdett-Munns, Managing Director, Journeysmiths, offers these tips:

Be Flexible

Widen your search to include alternative destinations and consider traveling outside of peak season. According to Burdett-Munns, lodges and camps in Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, like Masai Mara and the Serengeti, are already sold out for the summer, so she recommends looking to lesser-known areas, suggesting instead Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, or Kenya’s diverse Laikipia region.

“Each offers an amazing safari experience, only without the crowds,” says Burdett-Munns. “There’s loads of availability still to be had in these regions, especially at the smaller, more intimate camps, which in our opinion, provide a more immersive and authentic experience.”

Staying Longer Can Save Money

You’ll get more value for your money if you’re able to extend your stay. Burdett-Munns says travelers can frequently find deals for longer trips, such as getting four nights at a hotel for the price of three. 

Consider Low Season Destinations

Summer isn’t high season everywhere, so look to places where it’s low season in order to find great deals. Costa Rica, for example, has its rainest weather from May to mid-December. 

During this “green season,” you’ll find better deals and fewer crowds than if you were traveling in January. This doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck inside your hotel while it downpours your entire trip—like in most tropical destinations, summer weather usually only involves an occasional light shower each day. 

Research Similar Destinations

Think about what it is that appeals to you about a popular summer destination. If Alaska cruises are sold out or too expensive, Burdett-Munns advises booking an Arctic cruise instead. You’ll get similarly epic scenery with glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife sightings at a fraction of the cost. 

The post 10 Secret Alternatives to Crowded Summer Destinations appeared first on SmarterTravel.

We’ve rounded up the best hotels to stay at in each of New York City’s five boroughs, with a range of options for all price points and interests. These are the best hotels in New York City.

Best New York City Hotels: Manhattan

First-time visitors to New York City should stay in Manhattan, where you’ll have easy access to everything—thanks to the city’s stellar public transportation system and simple grid design (which makes walking everywhere easy, even without a map… at least above Lower Manhattan). 

The Knickerbocker Hotel

Despite its Times Square location, The Knickerbocker is a quiet oasis in the busy city. Housed in a New York City-landmark designated Beaux-Art building, this boutique hotel features modern rooms along with a few historic touches. Guest rooms are solidly soundproofed, so you can admire bustling Times Square from above—and then close the blackout blinds and feel like you’re sleeping in the middle of the countryside. 

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Aloft Manhattan Downtown Financial District

Manhattan’s Financial District is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a cheap hotel in New York City. You can find amazing hotel deals here, especially on weekends, and the neighborhood offers easy access to the Statue of Liberty, city cruises, and plenty of subway lines. Rooms at the Aloft Manhattan Downtown Financial District feel spacious with big windows and 9-foot high ceilings. The hotel’s 24-hour grab-and-go cafe is convenient for quickly getting snacks or a coffee any time of day or night. 

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Ritz-Carlton Central Park

For a romantic getaway or treat yourself splurge, you can’t do better than the Ritz-Carlton Central Park. This luxurious hotel has an iconic location right outside Central Park, and most rooms feature panoramic windows with incredible views of Manhattan’s skyline and Central Park. 

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Dream Midtown

A stay at Dream Midtown will perfectly position you within walking distance of iconic New York City sites and neighborhoods, including Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, Rockefeller Center, and more. However, with Dream’s numerous dining and nightlife options, you might not want to tear yourself away from the hotel. Enjoy dinner at the Italian restaurant Serafina, have a drink with a side of skyline views on the all-season rooftop PHD Terrace, enjoy a craft cocktail at The Rickey Lounge, or bowl a round at the game room/bar Fishbowl. 

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The Langham New York Fifth Avenue

Thanks to its prime Fifth Avenue location, The Langham New York offers rooms with Empire State Building views. Outdoor space is a premium in Manhattan, but you’ll find it in abundance at this hotel. Book a Deluxe Room With Terrace or a Junior Suite With Terrace to have your own private patio to relax on. Families and extended-stay travelers (or anyone who doesn’t want to eat out for every single meal) will appreciate The Langham’s many room options that feature full kitchens with Miele appliances. 

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Equinox Hotel

Fitness devotees and wellness travelers need look no further for the perfect New York City hotel—famed luxury gym chain Equinox has expanded into the hotel industry, with the Equinox Hotel New York. Set across from the eye-catching modern art Vessel sculpture in the trendy Hudson Yards neighborhood, the Equinox Hotel bills itself as “The Fittest Hotel on Earth,” and in-room on-demand workouts, foam rollers, and yoga mats, certainly back up that claim. 

Hotel pools are few and far between in New York City, so if you’re looking to do some laps or simply relax and float, the Equinox is a great choice, with a 25-yard indoor saltwater lap pool and outdoor pool overlooking the skyline and Hudson River. 

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W New York Union Square

If you’ve visited New York City’s Union Square before, you’ll likely recognize The W New York Union Square. Located in the 1922 Beaux-Arts Guardian Life Building, the hotel’s famous red W sign has been a landmark of the city for many years. 

This trendy hotel doesn’t skimp on space, with suites ranging in size from 440 square feet to 650 square feet. 

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Courtyard New York Manhattan/Upper East Side

A clean and affordable hotel is hard to find in New York City, but the Courtyard New York Manhattan/Upper East Side offers a cheap and cheerful stay in a non-touristy neighborhood. Modern rooms feature comfortable beds and a decent amount of space for a Manhattan hotel. There’s even a fitness center on-site that’s equipped with a sauna and steam room to unwind after a long day of walking around the city. 

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The Standard, High Line

If you’ve ever walked on the High Line, you’ve probably gazed jealously at The Standard Hotel. With floor-to-ceiling windows in every room overlooking the High Line, Hudson River, and city, it’s clear that this hotel offers incredible views. Head up to the top floor of the hotel for sunsets and late-night parties at Le Bain, or venture out to the open-air rooftop for drinks and crêpes.

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Park Lane New York

Soaring 47 stories above Central Park, most rooms at the Park Lane New York boast unbeatable views of the city’s best public green space. Rooms, especially the suites, are spacious for Manhattan—and are stocked with Le Labo toiletries and Bellino linens.

At sunset, head up to the Park Lane’s rooftop restaurant, Darling, for epic views and a buzzy scene. 

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The Muse New York

If you want to be in the heart of it all (but still be able to sleep at night), book a room at The Muse New York. Despite being located just half a block from Times Square, The Muse is quiet and peaceful. 

Book a roomy Muse Suite to feel as if you have your very own Manhattan apartment, complete with a separate living room and oversized soaking tub in the bathroom.

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Best New York City Hotels: Queens

Queens is often overlooked by visitors to New York City, but for travelers in the know, this diverse neighborhood is a great place to stay for a more local experience. The secret is already out for foodies, who flock to the area for authentic Asian food in Flushing and delicious Greek cuisine in Astoria. Here are the best hotels in Queens.

The Collective Paper Factory

Once a paper factory, now a modern hotel, this Long Island City hotel offers 125 unique rooms outfitted with reclaimed furniture and colorful art. Planning a long stay or working remotely? The Collective Paper Factory features plenty of communal working space, plus desks and fast (free) WiFi in all rooms. 

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The Parc Hotel

By staying just a few miles outside of Manhattan, you can save big money on hotels. For example, The Parc Hotel in Flushing, Queens is a quick walk from the 7 train (that will have you in Times Square in no time). Another bonus of staying in Queens: You’ll get Manhattan views, like the ones found at The Parc Hotel’s A+ Rooftop Bar.

Driving into New York City? The Parc Hotel has some of the cheapest parking in the city, at $25 a day for guests. 

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The One Boutique Hotel

Looking for an affordable spa getaway in New York City? Book a stay at The One Boutique Hotel, which is a sister company to the famous Spa Castle (a sprawling complex with outdoor hydrotherapy pools, multiple sauna rooms, and plenty of treatments to choose from). Hotel guests get a $30 Spa Castle voucher included with their stay.  

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Courtyard by Marriott New York JFK Airport

Have an early or late flight out of JFK Airport? Book a room at the Courtyard by Marriott New York JFK Airport to eliminate stress. Located less than a mile from the airport, the hotel runs a free shuttle for guests. An onsite restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Starbucks coffee so you don’t have to settle for airport food. 

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Best New York City Hotels: Brooklyn

If you’re looking for a cooler (and more local) vibe for your New York City vacation, book a stay in Brooklyn instead of Manhattan. Bonus: You’ll find more space and better deals in this borough. 

Pod Brooklyn

The famously hipster neighborhood of Williamsburg is packed full of trendy bars, restaurants, and shops, and makes a great base for a unique vacation. The Pod Hotel chain is known for its budget prices, and Pod Brooklyn is one of its cheapest locations. All of the rooms at Pod Brooklyn have en suite bathrooms, free WiFi, and workspaces.

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1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

With rooms starting at 300 square feet, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most spacious options in New York City. The hotel lives up to its name with many rooms offering stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge—and you’ll find local details throughout the property, such as furnishings made by local artisans. Some of the rooms, like the Skyline 1 Bedroom Suite, even feature in-room hammocks so you can admire the views in comfort. 

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Hotel Le Bleu

Hotel Le Bleu makes our list of the best hotels in New York City for one reason—free parking. In a city where a garage can cost over $100 a day, complimentary parking is a valuable amenity. (However, note that there are a limited number of spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis, so free parking isn’t guaranteed.)

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The Box House Hotel

Situated in Brooklyn’s lively Greenpoint neighborhood, The Box House Hotel offers easy access to both the subway and the East River Ferry—not to mention all the amenities and attractions found within Greenpoint itself. Previously a door and window manufacturing facility, The Box House Hotel now features 130 spacious lofts and suites. Looking for a good hotel for groups? Rent one of The Box House’s apartments that can sleep up to six people and offers fully-equipped kitchens. 

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Best New York City Hotels: The Bronx

Located right above Manhattan, The Bronx is one of the cheapest neighborhoods to stay in that still offers easy access via the subway (or walking) to New York City’s most popular attractions. 

Best Western Plus Stadium Inn

In New York City to catch a Yankees game? Skip the crowded subway and walk to the game when you book a room at the Best Western Plus Stadium Inn, which is located just a few blocks from Yankee Stadium. You’ll find great deals on rooms here, leaving you with enough money to actually be able to afford a ticket to the game. 

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The Opera House Hotel

Formerly the Bronx Opera House, The Opera House Hotel has been lovingly transformed into a landmark hotel in the South Bronx. All rooms feature helpful amenities including a microwave and refrigerator, plus a desk and work chair. 

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The Residence Inn By Marriott New York The Bronx at Metro Center Atrium

This Residence Inn is another New York City hotel that offers free parking to guests—so if you’re driving into the city (especially from the north) this is a great choice. Breakfast is also included in the affordable price, making this a prime option for a budget stay. Pets are allowed at this hotel as well. Designed for extended stays, all rooms at The Residence Inn feature fully-equipped kitchens.

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Best New York City Hotels: Staten Island

Staten Island is an easy ferry ride (or drive) away from Manhattan. New Yorkers know that the best value scenic cruise of the city is the Staten Island Ferry, which is free—and passes by the Statue of Liberty on the way to and from Manhattan. 

Holiday Inn Express Staten Island West

Free self-parking, free high-speed WIFi, and free breakfast add up to make a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Staten Island West a budget-friendly one. Running late in the morning? The hotel even offers breakfast-to-go bags that you can take on the road with you. A location near the Empire Outlets, Richmond County Sports Complex, and Susan E. Wagner College puts you in a great spot on Staten Island. 

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Hilton Garden Inn New York Staten Island

In need of a nature escape? Staten Island’s William T Davis Wildlife Refuge is one of New York City’s most underrated parks (it’s only 30 acres smaller than Central Park). Stay nearby at the Hilton Garden Inn New York Staten Island which offers easy access to the refuge, along with free parking and pet-friendly rooms.

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The post The 24 Best Hotels in New York City 2023 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Best Mother-Daughter Trips

By the time your mom or her mom reaches her golden years, you really start to appreciate the chance to travel together, because it’s easier to recognize the moments passing. Though there may be some comical generational differences in travel style, there’s no better way for women young and old to bond than traveling together on a mother-daughter trip.

Here are some of the best mother-daughter vacations to delight moms and daughters of all ages, no matter when you travel together.

Jolly Trolleys and Golden Gates: San Francisco, California

Everyone should see the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge at least once, and a mother-daughter trip to San Francisco is the perfect excuse for doing so. Bike or walk across the bridge to get out of the fog, and have lunch with a view in the whimsical town of Sausalito.

Pair a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with a CityPASS, which includes admission to some of the most popular Bay Area attractions, like the California Academy of Sciences and the Aquarium of the Bay, and the option to add on a cable car pass.

While roaming around Pier 39, have a bread bowl of clam chowder at Boudin Bakery, made with San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread—you won’t regret it. Nor will you regret the decadent chocolate sundae you’ll have at Ghirardelli Square after.

Where to stay: Book a room at Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf for a memorable stay central to the city’s most famous attractions.

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Vinos and Velos: Cycling from Dijon to Beaune, France

For an active vacation paired with exquisite wine and a whole lot of grandeur, try a mother-daughter bicycle tour through the Burgundy region. Explore the French countryside at your own pace while stopping along the way to taste a sampling of France’s finest fermented grapes.

Start in the historical town of Dijon at the Place de la Liberation. Pedal past rolling vineyard hills and storybook chateaus on your way to the charming town of Nuit-Saint-Georges. Take a break while you’re there to appreciate a taste (or two) of the region’s Premier Cru red wines, made from Pinot Noir grapes, and go truffle hunting at one of the local farms.

End your bike tour in the fairy tale town of Beaune. Its main square has been hosting an unmissable Saturday market since the early 13th century.

Where to stay: Stay at the The Maven at Dairy Block for an exceptionally lively atmosphere with loft-style rooms, access to shopping and dining in the city’s Dairy Block micro-district, and easy access to downtown Denver.

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Sipping, Sampling, and Shopping: Denver, Colorado

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Denver is becoming such a popular destination for mother-daughter trips. If you want to shop, dine, partake in a libations tour, take in the arts, or do all of the above, you can do it in Denver.

The city’s most popular area for strolling and shopping is the neighborhood around 16th Street Mall and Larimer Square. You can dine your way around Denver with stops at Rioja, Tamayo, Avanti, and North Italia, and then drink your way around on a boozy tour. There are plenty of guided tasting tours that will take you to places like Laws Whiskey, The Infinite Monkey Theorem Urban Winery, Colorado Cider Company, and Denver Beer Company. The Cooper Lounge in Union Station is the best place to enjoy a fancy cocktail.

Where to stay: At the MOXY Denver Cherry Creek, you’ll enjoy a fun and modern stay. The space encourages guest interaction with a full bar and an impressive assortment of lobby games, from shuffleboard to Hungry Hungry Hippos.

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Relax and Rosé All Day: Calistoga, California

While Napa may get all of the shout-outs, the best place to stay in California wine country is Calistoga. It sits at the base of Mount Saint Helena, about 25 miles northwest of the town of Napa. In Calistoga, you can do all of the iconic things mothers and daughters daydream of doing on a mother-daughter trip, like getting daily spa treatments and drinking Rosé all day.

Volcanic ash, mud, and mineral baths are the specialty spa treatment of this town. What better way to celebrate the unique bond between a mother and daughter than taking a mud bath? You can also get a proper massage treatment at Calistoga Spa and Hot Springs and the recently renovated Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa. Basically, you can walk from one end of town to the other in spa flip-flops, getting one treatment after another, and no one would blink an eye.

Take off your shoes and get stomping at Grgich Hills Estate, which offers daily grape stomping during the harvest season. Go for a royal tour and wine tasting at the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval-inspired Tuscan castle that features barrel-tasting and a torture chamber. No trip to Napa would be complete without taking a ride on the famous Napa Valley Wine Train. Book the Vista Dome for one of the most memorable meals you’ll ever have. The three-hour journey includes a gourmet meal and wine, of course.

Where to stay: You’ll find a stay at Dr. Wilkinson’s Hot Springs Resort to be reasonably priced and wonderfully retro.

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Beauty and the Beach: Maui, Hawaii

There’s a reason everyone loves Maui. Whether you’re nine years old or 90, you can appreciate the wonders of this island paradise. Maui is an extraordinary place to make mother-daughter travel memories that will last a lifetime.

Drive the road to Hana, hike the Bamboo Forest, go snorkeling with sea turtles at Maluaka Beach, catch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, and learn about Maui’s fascinating history at a traditional luau. Or, you know, just skip all of that and sunbathe at the beach.

Whatever you do on Maui, try to catch an evening meal at Mama’s Fish House during sunset. One of the photos you take is sure to become your new screensaver.

Where to stay: Treat your mom to a stay in the lap of luxury at the Grand Wailea to make your trip extra splendid. If you’re traveling with the whole family, stay at the Hotel Wailea, a private paradise estate in Kihei so you can make meals together and relax in the comfort of a home setting.

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Shamrocks and Smiles: Road Tripping Around Ireland

Haven’t you always wanted to take a mother-daughter trip to Ireland? Want to kiss the Blarney Stone, drive the Ring of Kerry, or perhaps behold some sheep roaming lush green hills of the countryside? Take a road trip from Dublin that passes through Cork, Killarney, Dingle, and Galway, and you’ll delight in exploring these sights.

Visit the nearby town of Kinsale and take the easy hike to Charles Fort. Spend a day in Killarney National Park, and make time to visit the historic sites of Dingle before heading to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, which is known for its traditional pubs and live Irish folk music.

Where to stay: Stop by the Hayfield Manor in Cork for a quintessentially Irish stay, complete with gourmet dining and afternoon tea service.

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Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Melissa McGibbon’s travel accomplishments include circumnavigating the globe on a ship, having dinner at Fidel Castro’s house in Havana, skiing steep chutes in Canada, and downhill mountain biking in Peru. Follow her on Twitter @mcmliss.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 6 Incredible Mother-Daughter Trips You’ll Always Treasure appeared first on SmarterTravel.