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• North America

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North Africa & Middle East

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of 20 wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

Bring on the world with small group travel.

Save on our most popular tours.

Got the urge to get away? We’ve got you covered. Check out the tours below, then get booking today!

• Central & Caribbean
• Middle East & North Africa

Introducing The Geluxe Collection

Icy hot deals on select expedition departures.

Depending on your travel date, you can snap up iceberg-sized savings on our Antarctica Expedition cruises to Earth’s frozen frontier.

Antarctica Classic

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Why travel with G Adventures?

We’re the leader in small group adventure travel for more than 30 years. How’d we get here? By redefining the way travellers see the world. Check out how we’re creating the future of travel.

Small groups

Join a small group of like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to safely and confidently experience all the things that make our world worth exploring.

100% guaranteed departures

Pack those bags and don't break a sweat because we guarantee every single one of our departures. As long as it's safe, you're going!

Locally based guides

At G Adventures, we don’t have tour guides — we have Chief Experience Officers. And they are all locally based, meaning they know the area you’re exploring like the back of their well-travelled hand.

Built to support local communities

We have always created our tours by building meaningful relationships with local communities, directly benefiting the people and places we visit.

Flexibility, freedom, fun

No matter the Travel Style, our tours balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.

When you travel with us, you experience first-hand our commitment to making travel a force for good is in everything we do.

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Don't just travel,

Small group adventures

An adventure travel company you can trust

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Digital event: Madagascar & the Galapagos Islands

Join us on Zoom on 23 April

The Explorer Magazine: New edition out now!

12 Epic Europe Trips

The best tours for foodies, culture vultures, thrillseekers and wanderlusters

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The adventure vacation experts

Making unforgettable adventures.

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Highlights of mont blanc.

Best of Morocco

Inside Vietnam

India's Golden Triangle

Sri Lanka in Depth

Simply Japan

Your wellbeing comes first

Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected with us.

Explore Flex

Explore has always been known for its flexible booking conditions and since the Coronavirus pandemic, we've gone even further to ensure you can continue to book your next adventure with confidence.

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Multi-Active adventure tours & vacations

• Ways to travel
• Multi-Active adventure tours & vacations

While travel is about discovering new places, for us the best adventures are found outside the city limits.

We're talking places where cobbled laneways are replaced by vine-covered jungle paths, skyscrapers are dwarfed by soaring mountains, and the quickest way to get from A to B is a zip-line instead of a taxi. On our Multi-Active and Multi-Sport adventures you can get a new perspective on familiar destinations – think  kayaking with river dolphins in Cambodia , white water rafting the mighty Amazon River or canyoning the caves of New Zealand . These are pulse-racing, hair-raising trips for those who like their travel with a dash of the extraordinary. Saddle up and join the ride.

Browse trips by included activity

Hiking and walking

Skiing and snowboarding

Snorkelling

Active family adventures

Browse adventure tours by region.

The Americas

Our multi-active & multi-sport adventures, amalfi coast: hike & kayak, 8 days from 2168.

Soak up the spectacular scenery of Italy’s Amalfi Coast on this trip through Naples,...

Fiji: Hike, Raft & Snorkel

8 days from 3177.

Hike, raft and snorkel through Fiji’s rural landscapes and islands, including the Coral...

Andorra: Hike, Bike & Raft

8 days from 988.

Take on an active adventure cycling, hiking and rafting through the gorgeous Pyrenees....

Alaska Hike, Bike & Kayak

6 days from 2223.

Explore Anchorage, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park and Seward on foot,...

Morocco: Hike & Bike

9 days from 1035.

Get active and explore Morocco on a 9-day hiking and biking round-trip tour from...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Costa Rica: Hike, Bike & Raft

8 days from 1650.

Hike, bike and raft your way through Central America’s lush Costa Rica with an...

Sri Lanka: Hike, Bike & Kayak

10 days from 1960.

Hike, bike and kayak through Negombo, Sigiriya, Knuckles, Kandy, Hatton, Weligama and...

Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike & Kayak

8 days from 2082.

Take an active adventure to experience the gorgeous Cinque Terre area in Italy in the...

Bali, Lombok & Gili Islands: Hike, Bike, Raft & Snorkel

12 days from 1552.

Travel to Bali and Lombok in Indonesia. Raft down Class 2 and 3 rapids, cycle along the...

Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak

11 days from 1548.

Hike, bike and kayak across Vietnam on this active adventure from Hanoi. Trek in Sapa,...

Cambodia: Hike, Bike & Kayak

8 days from 1084.

See the best of Cambodia, learning about its history and customs as you cycle, trek and...

Active New Zealand: Wanaka

4 days from 1625.

Explore lakes, mountains and rivers on a 4-day Wanaka adventure, taking in Arrowtown,...

Japan: Hike, Bike & Kayak

12 days from 6080.

Get a cultural workout in Japan on an active adventure. Hike the Nakasendo Way and...

Turkey: Hike, Bike & Kayak

12 days from 2463.

An adrenaline charged tour of Turkey. Visit the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, hike the...

Southern Greece: Hike, Bike & Kayak

7 days from 2466.

Hike, bike and Kayak on an adventure through Southern Greece, with stays in Athens,...

Slovenia: Hike, Bike & Raft

7 days from 1662.

Hike Mt Vogel in Triglav National Park, bike next to Radovljica Rive and raft the...

Croatia: Hike, Bike & Kayak

8 days from 1542.

Get active on this multi-active Croatia adventure. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking,...

Thailand: Hike, Bike & Kayak

8 days from 1660.

Tour through Thailand on a multi-active adventure, cycling through Ayutthaya Historical...

Vanuatu & Fiji Adventure

17 days from 7105.

Experience the best of Vanuatu and Fiji on an adventure through rainforest-rich islands...

Samoa & Fiji Adventure

16 days from 6725.

Take a relaxing and active adventure to Samoa and Fiji on this incredible adventure...

Hike & Kayak Maine's Acadia National Park

5 days from 3185.

Hike around the best bits of Acadia National Park, including the Beehive, Cadillac...

Why choose Intrepid

Adventure is in our genes

We’ve been running our Active Adventures for over a decade, which means we know the best local suppliers and experts on the ground to give you an exciting and safe experience.

Expert leaders

Don’t know what a carabiner is? Or how to secure a harness? No worries! Our experienced local leaders will show you the ropes and give you safety briefings – while also showing you the sights.

Safety first

Our leaders are specially trained to run Active Adventures, so you're well taken care of. We run safety assessments on all our activities to meet local standards as well as our own comprehensive safety policy.

Learn new skills

Our trips are about discovering a new destination and unlocking new skills – like horse riding, canyoneering or mountain biking. They're designed to teach you something new (and maybe even make you an enthusiast, too!).

Support the locals

We use travel as a force for good. We have close relationships with the communities we visit and always use local adventure providers on our trips. By travelling with us, you'll also be empowering local communities.

Sustainable travel

We use travel as a force for good. We’ve been officially certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid, you can rest assured you’re travelling to improve the planet.

Highlights of our Multi-Active trips

Snorkel with sea turtles off the islands of Gili Air, camp below the rim of Lombok’s Mt Rinjani volcano, cycle through Bali’s bamboo forests to powder-white beaches, and tackle class II and III rapids on a rafting adventure just outside of Ubud.

New Zealand

Kayak beneath mountains on the shimmering Lake Wanaka, hike through alpine landscapes to hanging glaciers, and soak up the South Island’s scenery while taking on Otago’s most impressive cycling trail.

Hike the valleys of Cappadocia and picnic among surreal fairy chimneys, kayak over a sunken city in the lush blue waters of the Mediterranean, and take in the breathtaking views of the Turquoise Coast on the Lycian Way.

Raft world-class rapids on the Pacuare River, hike misty jungle trails in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, meet the local wildlife residents at Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, and cycle palm-fringed roads along the Caribbean coast.

Cycle along the ancient caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, hike through Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains and enjoy a sunset camel ride across Erg Chebbi’s shifting sand dunes.

Tackle a section of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, cycle across six small islands on the Setouchi Inland Sea and learn how Ama divers (female pearl divers) collect pearls the traditional way.

How fit do I need to be to participate in a Multi-Active adventure?

You don’t need to be a super athlete! Only a general level of health and fitness is needed to make the most of the experience. The physical level of activities does differ between trips and it is important to read the itinerary in detail to understand what level of exercise is involved. For instance, some of the trips deliver a great cardio workout (like cycling the mountains trails of Andorra) while others will be less demanding.

If you’re not sure if you’re able to participate on any of our trips, visit your doctor to see if you’re in a healthy shape to fully enjoy the activities included.

Do I need to be experienced to join a Multi-Active adventure?

None of our Multi-Active Adventures are overly technical and you won’t need any previous training or experience to participate. However most of our trips will include a combination of hiking, cycling and water-based activities. You will need to have some basic skills to fully participate in these, such as being able to pedal a bike or swim a short distance.

Do I need to train for a Multi-Active adventure?

While training is not necessary, some of our trips can involve multiple days of hiking and it’s generally a good idea to start training, such as walking more at home or undertaking regular cardio exercise, prior to these trips.

Are Multi-Active adventures safe?

You bet. Safety is the first priority on all our trips. This means we conduct safety assessments on all our activities whether they’re included or offered as optional extras. All of our safety assessments are conducted in accordance with national and local laws, as well as our own internal safety standards

We provide full safety briefings for all our activities and usually allow a chance to practice before diving into the real thing. We also regularly check the equipment we use to make sure it meets safety standards.

All activities are led by our experienced and qualified leaders, or by local guides who might be experts in a particular activity. Whether it’s cycling, trekking or kayaking, our leaders live for the outdoors and will be able to introduce you to their favourite hobbies.

Will I still experience the local culture on these trips?

While the fun activities we include on our Multi-Active Adventures are a focus of our trips, we still feature the same local interactions and real life experiences that are a hallmark of the Intrepid experience. Our aim is to help you discover new places in a new way while still learning about the culture and its people.

Do I have to participate in every activity?

We give our travellers flexibility to choose which activities they’d like to be part of. So while we include a heap of inclusions on our tours, you also have freedom to choose. If you like mountain biking and would like to spend another day polishing your skills, we’ll give you the option to do just that. If you are really keen on walking, we can show you the best walks to try during free time too.

Do you include any country-specific activities?

The beauty of our Multi-Active Adventures is their ability to adapt to the landscape of each country. One day you’ll be walking up volcanoes in Italy, cycling around the fairytale chimneys of Goreme in Turkey, or snorkelling with seals around the Galapagos Islands. Wherever possible we include unique activities tailored for the region you are visiting, making the most of the special opportunities each country provides.

How much hiking and biking is involved on your trips?

The majority of our Multi-Active Adventures include two key activities: hiking and biking. These may come in different forms, from an easy hike on flat terrain to multi-day trekking featuring overnight camping, or short city cycling tours to full mountain biking expeditions. Make sure to read the itinerary for full details on how much hiking and biking will be involved, as well as the Essential Trip Information provided.

So you do have any ski or snowboard trips?

We have ski and snowboard options for beginner and intermediate/expert skiers and snowboarders alike. If you're a beginner then our Ski New Zealand: 7-Day South Island Snow Safari is for you. We throw in 2 beginner lessons free and can arrange more if you want them. It’s also a great option for more advanced snow lovers as well. If you're looking to get off groomed snow and away from the crowds to test your intermediate to advanced skills on untamed and uncrowded terrain, then our Ski New Zealand: 5 Day South Island Snow Explorer or 12-day Ski New Zealand: South Island Snow Odyssey is for you.

Do you include water-based activities on your trips?

Water-based activities are included in almost every itinerary we offer. This mostly takes the form of rafting or kayaking. Rafting activities will usually take place on Grade II and Grade III rapids and you should feel comfortable in the water, including a basic level of swimming ability, before participating. We provide full safety briefings before each rafting excursion. Our kayaking activities may take place at sea or in rivers but either way we'll provide full safety briefings and all necessary safety equipment.

Do I need to bring any equipment with me?

No. There is no compulsory equipment on any of the trips, however it is always important to check the packing list for each particular itinerary. There may be items we suggest you bring with you, such as cycling gloves (that may come useful on other activities like zip-lining too!), gel seats, hiking boots, day packs or water shoes. Check the packing list in your Essential Trip Information for a full list, including what clothing and footwear might be needed. Cycling helmets are always provided as well as other safety equipment.

One thing to consider is packing a sleeping bag on trips involving overnight trekking. For instance, our trips in Madagascar require travellers to bring a sleeping bag with them.

Who will carry my luggage for me?

We take care of all the little details so you can focus on tackling that next climb or paddling those rapids. We transport your main luggage for you while you are trekking, cycling or taking part in any other activity. We recommend carrying a day pack to hold some essential items from day to day, such as your sun screen, camera, water bottle, snacks and all the other items you may need for the day.

Do I need special insurance to join a Multi-Active adventure?

Because of the active nature of our trips, we require all travellers to hold an appropriate level of insurance coverage prior to their departure. This includes coverage for included and optional activities on your tour. Most insurance providers will cover all the activities we offer on our trips, however it's important you read your product information summary (or equivalent insurance policy document) carefully to ensure you are covered.  

When reviewing your insurance coverage, keep an eye out for included activities such as Via Ferrata, rafting and high altitude trekking (checking what exact altitude you are covered for is essential). If you have problems finding insurance, please contact our team for further advice.

What accommodation can I expect on a Multi-Active adventure?

We choose to stay at small, locally-owned accommodation wherever possible. You can expect clean, charming lodgings run by friendly staff willing to take you in at the end of a big day. Some of our included activities will take us deep into the jungle or high up in to the mountains, where we may stay in basic accommodation. It might be a homestay in a bamboo hut in Thailand, a traditional teahouse in the Himalayas or a Maori marae in New Zealand.

On trips involving multi-day trekking, rafting or canoeing excursions, expect to camp out before continuing your expedition the next day. This is fully supported camping where tents are put up and down for you, meals are freshly prepared and basic washing facilities are provided.

Meet our leaders

"For me, travelling is all about the journey. There’s no better way to experience the beauty of Vietnam than by paddling through Cat Ba’s secluded lagoons on a kayak, trekking through Sapa and staying with a local family, or cycling through lush valleys from Mai Chau to Ninh Binh."

Tri  – Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak

"Office views don’t get better than the Path of the Gods. I've been leading hikes along the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Peninsula for over 12 years – and it never gets old. There’s something new to experience on every trip, whether it’s sharing cultures with travellers from around the world or seeing the joy on their faces as we kayak to a hidden beach."

Giovanni – Amalfi Coast: Hike, Boat & Kayak

"Nothing beats the feeling of spotting sloths and hummingbirds in Monteverde Cloud Forest, getting the adrenaline pumping as we raft the rapids of the Pacuare River or paddleboarding with a backdrop of Arenal Volcano. Being active while surrounded by Mother Nature is the best way to see the world."

Imalay – C osta Rica: Hike, Bike & Raft

The Intrepid Foundation

The  Intrepid Foundation 's Buffalo Bicycle Ride will improve access to education and healthcare, and support sustainable employment in developing regions of the world by helping to distribute specially-designed rugged Buffalo Bicycles into communities. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced rider, push yourself out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself to ride further than you ever have before.

Learn more about the Buffalo Bicycle Ride

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28 Adventures to Travel For, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to Sand Surfing in the Sahara

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love lounging on a faraway beach or revisiting our favorite city for the tenth time, sometimes our passports need some adventure travel—we’re talking about those once-in-a-lifetime trips that push us way outside our comfort zones. Adventure travel is a great way to see more of the world, while also testing your physical limits, and coming home with a lifetime's worth of stories to tell at parties.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai . Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots , and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu , the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru , you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours .

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing , you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer , the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

Jessica Puckett

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Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Hunt for glaciers in Greenland

Greenland is relatively expensive and tricky to get to, but well worth the effort—especially since it’s one of the most untouched landscapes on the planet. Exhibit A: the hundreds-year-old icebergs and glaciers floating off the mainland, which you can get up close and personal with during a cruise excursion. ( Hurtigruten and Cruise Norway offer these sailings.)

Hop across Botswana on a mobile safari

While most safari camps stay in one place like a traditional hotel, the private canvas safaris by  Barclay Stenner Safaris are totally mobile, meaning you can pick up and move locations based on weather conditions and wildlife movements. The outfitter’s Botswana itinerary moves across the country to fauna-rich areas like the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—get ready to follow groups of lions, hippos, elephants, and more.

Paraglide over Turkey’s Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world's best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Divers and snorkelers everywhere need to experience the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime. Not only does the site have more than 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, but the natural wonder has been rapidly eroding due to coral bleaching and global warming . That means it’s more urgent than ever to see this sight in all its glory—and to understand what we are losing.

Swim through Mexico’s cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula features a wealth of unique natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its cavernous cenotes. Floating in one of these natural sinkholes is an incredible experience, as is diving through the underground cave systems . When in Tulum , visit Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) to view one of the planet’s most beautiful underwater sites or Gran Cenote for rock formations that resemble Gothic architecture.

Free-fall over Dubai at 120 miles per hour

Dubai is one of the most over-the-top cities in the world, so are you really surprised that skydiving is one of its most popular activities?  Skydive Dubai is a company located near Jumeirah Beach, offering tandem skydiving for beginners and solo jumps for licensed divers. If you thought Dubai’s skyline was impressive already, just wait until you see it while falling from 13,000 feet in the air.

Scale Half Dome at Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome trail through Yosemite may be one of the most intense hikes you’ll ever take, stretching for 16 miles and ascending more than 5,500 feet. The final 400 feet are the trickiest—hikers must climb up the steep slope with two steel cables as their only support—but the breathtaking views from the top make the effort (and terror) worth it. Afterwards, stay at The Ahwahnee, one of the most beautiful national park hotels in the country.

Swim with great white sharks in South Africa

The fishing town of Gansbaai is often considered to be the birthplace of great white shark cage diving, an activity that would make most adrenaline junkies drool. Cage diving is totally safe (despite what some low-budget shark movies might lead you to believe), but we dare you to keep your heart rate in check as you come face-to-face with an apex predator.  Marine Dynamics is one of the most popular cage diving operators in town, with a marine biologist and videographer joining every tour.

Bungee jump in New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented adventure sports when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy opened in 1988. Here you join around 38,000 annual visitors to take the 140-foot jump from the South Island's historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge—an activity in which the views are almost as thrilling as the fall itself.

Climb Mount Fuji

Solitary Mount Fuji is probably Japan’s most iconic natural wonder , rising 12,388 feet above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. You can get views of the landmark from many places, like Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko and even the Park Hyatt Tokyo , but it’s the views from the mountain that will give you the most bragging rights. Visit from early July to mid-September to take advantage of the official climbing season, when the designated trails and paved roads are free of snow.

Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for action sports and adventure, we recommend booking a flight to Nicaragua right now. There you can kayak, surf, zipline through the jungle, and even sled down the side of an active volcano. Intrepid travelers love to climb up the 2,388-foot Cerro Negro and then “volcano board” back down (an activity where you sit or stand on a piece of plywood and slide your way down the slopes). You'll want to go with a guided group tour with this one. Bigfoot Hostels is one of many operators for excursions—for $25, you get transportation to the volcano, boards, safety equipment, snacks, and your speed clocked by a radar gun.

Take a white-knuckle drive in Norway

Who says your adrenaline can’t pump from the comfort of your car? Trollstigen is one of the world’s most popular (and  terrifying ) highways, known for its steep gradient and hairpin turns. The one-lane road passes such impressive wonders as the 1,050-foot Stigfossen waterfall, but be sure to pull over before you gawk and snap photos. There are several viewing platforms along the road that will let you take in the sites without risking a crash.

Dive Belize’s Great Blue Hole

Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue color , the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. While an aerial shot is enough to convince anyone of its beauty, scuba divers are the ones who get to experience the wonders that lie beneath: massive, 40-foot limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed during the last glacial period.

Go canyoning in the Azores

Portugal’s Azores Islands are equal parts adventurous and beautiful, inviting travelers to get up close and personal with nature while hiking, biking, and swimming. If you want to really push the envelope, try canyoning—an activity that has you rappel down a waterfall while navigating slippery rocks and fast-flowing water. Azores Getaways offers a comprehensive and easy-to-book experience. Training, equipment, on-site instructors, and snacks are all included in the excursion, which will no doubt become one of the most memorable of your life.

Kayak through Torres del Paine National Park

Chile’s Patagonia region is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. But while most people experience the sights while hiking, you can get a slightly different view from the water via a kayaking trip.  Kayak en Patagonia offers several tour options ranging in duration and difficulty levels, but all let you paddle past towering mountains, rugged glaciers, and other incredible vistas.

Sleep under the northern lights

Ah, the elusive northern lights . So many factors are at play when it comes to seeing the technicolor phenomenon—location, time of year, weather conditions—but it’s hard to lose with an excursion to Finnish Lapland. The Arctic area is one of the planet’s best for aurora viewing, especially if you get to sleep in an igloo hotel at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or mobile Aurora Bubble Sled . Up your viewing chances by planning a trip between December and March.

Go heli-skiing in Alaska

If you’re a seasoned traveler who’s conquered every black diamond slope in North America, there’s still one snowy adventure left to vanquish: heli-skiing. There’s nothing quite like hopping in a helicopter and being dropped onto untouched snow at the top of a mountain—especially in a setting as formidable as Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. The experienced guides at  Valdez Heli Ski Guides (VHSG) will help make this dream a reality, taking you to some of the best runs of your life and then letting you unwind (hot tub and massages included) at the cozy  Tsaina Lodge .

Snorkel between continents in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for adventure travel , with opportunities for everything from glacier hiking to snorkeling and diving. For the latter, head straight to Thingvellir National Park along the country’s Golden Circle route , where two tectonic plates slowly pull apart at the rate of about two centimeters (0.8 inches) per year. The phenomenon results in the Silfra fissure, a stunning rift valley where travelers can snorkel or dive in impossibly clear (and cold) waters. Tour company DIVE.IS offers tours for divers and every level of snorkeler—including those with no prior experience—and will snap an underwater photo of you touching two continents at the same time.

Float along the Amazon

Some remote destinations are best seen from the deck of a boat, and that includes the upper Amazon River. Aqua Expeditions ’ luxury cruises through the Peruvian stretch of the river tour the area’s wildlife and culture at a delightful, leisurely pace. You'll even have chef-prepared gourmet meals and five-star suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Looking for something a little less luxe? Amazon Adventures offers kayaking trips along some Amazon tributaries, where you can fish for piranhas and camp out in the rainforest.

Surf ‘The Pipeline’ in Oahu

Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline (commonly referred to as The Pipeline) is easily one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the world. Located off the coast of the island’s north shore in Ehukai Beach Park, the surf reef break averages waves measuring nine feet high. This activity is definitely not for beginners, but even non-surfers will get a thrill out of watching the many surf competitions that take place at The Pipeline—all from the safety of a sunny beach.

Spot elusive wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest

Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—and one of the most magical, with elusive species like sea wolves and Kermode bears roaming its 21 million acres. Outer Shores Expeditions will take you on a nine-day excursion aboard a schooner, departing from British Columbia’s First Nations community of Bella Bella and stopping for sea kayaking along the way.

Soak in the planet’s most extreme infinity pool

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls attracts thousands of tourists each year. One of the biggest draws here is the Devil’s Pool , a naturally formed eddy sitting at the very edge of the falls, where daring swimmers can splash around between August and January (depending on water levels, that is). Given that a slippery rock barrier is the only thing separating you from going over the edge, this site is easily the planet’s most extreme infinity pool .

Camp in Antarctica

Antarctica is truly the final frontier when it comes to adventure travel, providing untouched landscapes, unique wildlife, and more activities than you’ll know what to do with (like cruising, caving, and thermal spring soaking , to name a few). If you can get yourself to Punta Arenas, Chile, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions will fly you to Antarctica for three days of skiing and hiking before setting you up for a South Pole sleepover.

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“Because of our Trek Leader’s vast experience in the area, we used several trails that aren’t known to many trekkers and we were invited into Sherpa homes, which was wonderful. I had been dreaming of this trip for 30 years and now those dreams are fulfilled.”

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Adventure Resorts: Get the Thrill Without Sacrificing the Comfort

Ranging from simple to sublime, check into these plush properties and check out the adventures just outside their doors.

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Relaxation With a Side of Adrenalin

Traveling is always adventurous, and these getaways amp up the excitement factor for their guests. Here's a selection of adventure resorts around the world that offer thrill-seeking guests everything from biking to zip lining without sacrificing a warm meal and soft bed at the end of the day. (Pictured is Mountain Lodges of Peru )

Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, Utah

Go canyoneering, zip lining, ATVing, climbing and horseback riding on Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort ’s 4,000 acres; then hike into Zion National Park right from the property or take a resort shuttle to a trailhead within the park. Lodging options range from staying in a Conestoga wagon that sleeps six with a king bed and bunkbeds, to cabin suites with kitchenettes and outdoor grills. Fully-equipped vacation homes with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, Jacuzzi hot tubs and patio decks are available as well. The resort's tiered swimming pool is a great escape from the desert heat after a day of exploring.

Hotel Feel Viana, Viana do Castelo, Portugal

Opened in April 2017,  Hotel Feel Viana  in Viana do Castelo offers kitesurfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding lessons right on the Cabedelo Beach. Go cycling on 250 miles of coastal and forest trails that wind through its surrounding mountains. The on-site Viana Cycles Shop rents Scott bikes or services yours, and guided mountain and city bike tours are available as well. End the day with a spa treatment then dinner at FeelViana Restaurant, then enjoy a well-earned sleep in a simple, stylish room overlooking the beach.

Angel Fire Resort, New Mexico

With 60 miles of screaming downhill and flow trails, Angel Fire Resort in northern New Mexico becomes a premiere bike park when the snow melts and the skis are put away. Riders take lifts to the 10,677-foot summit to plunge 2,000 vertical feet back to the base. Trails have plenty of banks and features for experts, and mellower routes to take the edge off for beginners. The base bike shop rents bikes or keeps yours running. The golf course, indoor pool, hiking trails, fly fishing and other outdoor activities also help make it an active stay. Hotel rooms, lobby and restaurants are located right at the base and lifts for quickly getting on and off the mountain.

Mfuwe Lodge, Zambia

Elephants casually walking through the open-air lobby on their way to eat mangoes is just one of the sites guests may see at Mfuwe Lodge within Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. Part of the Bushcamp Company of safari camps, Mfuwe is the only one within the park proper. Each of the 18 chalets has a private deck, and hippos, crocodiles, giraffes and other animals frequent the two lagoons on property. Take a walking or driving safari for the day, then enjoy a treatment at the Bush Spa followed by a sundowner and dinner on the open-air deck.

Skylodge Adventure Suites, Peru

Climb 1,200 feet up a cliff or hike and zip line just to reach your room at Peru’s Skylodge Adventure Suites.  Transparent capsules are bolted into the cliff overlooking the Sacred Valley along the trekking route to Machu Picchu . Enjoy a gourmet dinner and bottle of wine as you watch the sun set over the valley below, then drift off to sleep under the stars before having breakfast and zip lining to the valley floor the next day. Enjoy the Skylodge on its own, or include it in a larger adventure resort itinerary offered by Big Five Tours & Expeditions  that strings local resorts together for an epic trek to Machu Picchu United Nations World Heritage Site.

Reeb Ranch, North Carolina

Opened in 2014 by the mountain-bike crazy owners of nearby Oskar Blues Brewery , the  Reeb Ranch  offers two cabins, a 50-foot-long 1962 Airstream trailer, as well as camping and group-camping sites on its property. The on-site flow track and hundreds of miles of singletrack through adjacent DuPont State Forest and nearby Pisgah National Forest make this area a mountain biking mecca. Reeb Ranch also offers mountain biking tours for all skill levels. Music and other events throughout the year keep the excitement going after you're off the trail. 

Echo Canyon River Expeditions, Colorado

Leconte lodge, great smoky mountains national park, tennessee.

Perched atop the highest peak in the half-million-acre Great Smokey Mountains National Park is  LeConte Lodge . It can only be reached via a 6-mile hike to park's third-highest point at 6,400 feet. This also makes LeConte the highest-elevation guest lodge in the eastern United States. The payoffs are incredible views, hot meals, solitude and warm beds surrounded by wilderness. Situated along the Appalachian Trail, the lodge accepts reservations for its rough-hewn cabins and multi-room lodges with front porches, and also sells bag lunches and drinks to hikers who drop by.

Ion Adventure Hotel, Iceland

Take in the Northern Lights, scuba dive the American-Eurasian Silfra Fissure, shoot the rapids of the Hvita glacial river, tour the Icelandic landscape by helicopter, jeep or horse and soak in hot springs at Ion Adventure Hotel . Located near Thingvellir National Park and Iceland’s Golden Circle motor route around the island, Ion provides luxury accommodations, the Silfra Restaurant, Northern Lights bar and Ion Spa for unwinding after the day’s adventures.

Denali Backcountry Lodge, Denali National Park, Alaska

Immerse yourself in Denali National Park by staying overnight at Denali Backcountry Lodge . This collection of 42 cabins, main lodge, dining hall and spa are along the banks of Moose Creek, 92 miles into Denali’s backcountry. Grab a can of bear spray and hike the trails surrounding the property for sweeping views of Denali itself, Wonder Lake and the Alaska Range, or sign up for a guided hike or mountain bike tour. Fish or pan for gold in Moose Creek, enjoy hearty family-style meals in the main lodge, and book a spa treatment at The Nest Spa & Wellness after a hard day of hiking. Book a stay yourself or as part of a John Hall's Alaska adventure tour.

Phantom Ranch, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and relax at the tree-shaded oasis at Phantom Ranch.  It is the only permanent lodging below the rim of the national park. This rustic, no-frills property was built in 1922 and designed by Mary Colter. Accommodations consist of simple, private cabins or male and female dormitories. Meals are served in the canteen. From Phantom Ranch, explore the North Kaibab and other trails without the need of backcountry permits or extensive camping gear. Phantom also makes a waypoint for through-hikers completing rim-to-rim hikes. For those not wanting to make the 10.5-mile hike from the South Rim, mule rides offered by Xanterra are available. 

Adventures on the Gorge Adventure Resort, West Virginia

Rip through the New River Gorge on the Gauley River for some of the best fall season white water in the world with Adventures on the Gorge.  When you get off the river, go zip lining, climbing, stand-up paddle boarding and other adventures back at the resort or on nearby Summersville Lake. Enjoy dinner at Buffler’s Grill or Smokey’s on the Gorge before retiring to your comfortable cabin to rest up for the next day. Multi-day rafting trips are available that provide riverside tent camping and meals.

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Incredible Adventures

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

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Home » Budget Travel » The 12 Best Places for Adventure Travel Holidays (TOP TRIPS in 2024)

The 12 Best Places for Adventure Travel Holidays (TOP TRIPS in 2024)

Adventure is good. Adventure says a lot about who we are as people. How we interact with it, the kind of adventure we seek, our reasons for doing it… these things woven together tell a story .

The adventure keeps us alive – without it, we stagnate . We work our 9 to 5 so we can come home afterwards, cook dinner, binge Netflix on the couch with our significant other, and then – if we’re lucky and not too tired – a banal quickie before we hit the sack.

Even writing that paragraph gave me an existential crisis .

So what’s the remedy to all that deep-seated nihilistic fear and loathing? Quite simply, an adventure! Nature, adrenaline, dicking around and almost falling off mountaintops: now you’re really living!

So, you’re considering some good ol’ travel adventures. Well, this is the list for you: the 12 best places for an adventure travel holiday . It’s also quite a good list if I do say so myself; at least one offering from every continent!

The activities vary, the environments vary, the budgets vary but the feeling of truly being alive remains the same among these adventure tourism destinations. These are the bucket list trips of a lifetime!

To, you know… distract you from the gnawing meaninglessness of existence.

The 12 Best Places for an Adventure Travel Holiday

What is adventure tourism, safety and ethics of adventure travel, it’s time to go to the best places for adventure travel holidays.

Alright, we’re jumping right into it… the good stuff! The best places for adventure travel across the seven continents!

After the mega-list we’ll get into some nitty-gritty stuff but today I want to give you your dessert before your broccoli. The 12 best places for adventure travel straight off the bat!

They may not necessarily be the most adventurous countries (depending on your perception of ‘adventurous’) but then some, I’d argue, are pretty far out. That’s what I’m saying: we got something for everyone! It’s like Baskin Robbins if Baskin Robbins only had 12 flavours.

Bah, enough loose metaphors – it’s time for the 12 best places for adventure travel – starting with the best!

Introducing the best hostel EVER!

Hell yeah, you heard right! There are many great places in Indonesia, but none of them can live up to Tribal Bali .

A unique coworking hostel for those that want to travel the world while working from their laptops. Make use of the massive open-air coworking spaces and sip on delicious coffee. If you need a quick screen break, just take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool or grab a drink at the bar.

Need more work inspiration? Staying at a digital nomad-friendly hostel is a really smart way to get more done whilst still enjoying the social life of travelling… Mingle, share ideas, brainstorm, make connections and find your tribe at Tribal Bali!

#1 Pakistan: The Best Place for Adventure Travel that Makes People Go, “You’re going where!?”

I bet you weren’t expecting this to make the list of the best places for adventure travel holidays!

Yep, let’s talk Pakistan. And before we do, you’re gonna have to leave all your stigmas at the door (along with your shoes, thank you very much)!

Pakistan is one of those places where you’re taking adventure tourism to the next level. It drops a lot of the ‘tourism’ in the process. If your idea of the best adventure holiday is a lot of beautiful nature with a lot of friendly, inquisitive people, it’s worth flying in the face of the status quo and travelling to Pakistan. I mean, that’s the whole point of a travel adventure, right?

You’ll find a lot of trekking in Pakistan with something for everyone. If you’re an avid trekker, the Karakoram range is magnificent and a true feat to experience. There are also more chill day hikes – and then there’s the 18-day trek to the K2 base camp (the second-highest mountain in the world).

You can try going it solo to discover one of the most adventurous countries in the world all by your lonesome. There is certainly some solitude and epic adventure waiting for you!

Even adventure travel is sometimes better shared though!

#2 New Zealand: Adventure Travel With a Bit of Everything!

Time for something a little more standard but no-less downright gorgeous! The good thing about adventure travel in New Zealand is that you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. It’s like seven countries in one neat little package.

Ice-capped mountains? Check. Petrified forests? Check. Prehistoric coastline? Check. Uninhabited fjords? Check.

And that’s just found while road tripping the South Island !

New Zealand’s adventure tourism options have a flavour for everyone!

The Great Walks offer multiple levels of trekking from the well-worn Abel Tasman to the near-undisturbed Stewart Island. Or, you know, you could just walk the entirety of New Zealand – I met a dude that did it without shoes. That’s pretty metal.

But where do you go in New Zealand for the best overall adventure holiday? Easy one, man. You backpack Queenstown : the go-to for adventure travel sports and activities in New Zealand.

You’ve got beautiful weather on the lake in the summer months. Then, come winter, all the snow bums roll in for the powder season. A year-long travel adventure backpacking epicentre!

So what other adventure activities are there? It’s mega-famous for bungy jumping, ziplining, or you can book a skydiving tour. Honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world to do it.

Oh, and if you get bored, beautiful, darling Wanaka is about an hour’s drive away… and it’s way better!

#3 Nepal: Holy Mountains and a Booming Adventure Tourism Industry

The past decade has seen near-consistent growth in tourist arrivals to Nepal. 

How come? Hmm, I can’t be certain but it may have something to do with the Himalayas… Nepal is the ‘roof of the world’ after all.

So what type of adventure tourism can you expect from Nepal? Well, again, it’s the Himalayan Mountains… so… a lot of mountaineering. Mind you, this is the final-boss-level mountaineering I’m talking about. The proper hardcore deal.

However, Mount Everest is full of garbage and Nepal is struggling to keep up with its tourism. We’ll cover being a responsible tourist later on, but while we’re talking about Nepal, trek something other than Mt Everest.

You can disappear (safely) into the Annapurna range . This epic trekking loop strikes a nice balance between being both culturally authentic and tourist accessible. But pick your timing right: outside peak season but close to the cusp for the best of both worlds.

Alternatively, just pick a direction and start walking. The further out you get to where the whiteys don’t go, the more spectacular and strange Nepal becomes. The chaos of India slowed down by the pace of mountain life. 

I’ve even heard whispers of a pristine ancient lake too; they say… Rara .

And then there is travelling Pokhara . Pokhara, in many ways, is like Queenstown. Only it’s slower, it’s more chill, and you smoke hash instead of greenery.

There’s a lot of adventure tourism activities around Pokhara now (as the industry has grown). You can learn to Paraglide , go trekking, and there’s some dope rafting around too.

#4 Costa Rica: Adventure Travel that’s Pura Vida

Costa Rica – the birthplace of the zipline. So, now you know number one on your list of adventure activities to do in Costa Rica.

Backpacking Costa Rica has got a lot to offer the adventure traveller: jungles, beaches, volcanoes. The nature in Costa Rica is one of the reasons that Costa Rica has remained one of the world’s best places for adventure travel for so long.

Its natural magnetism to travellers and ex-pats alike has made Costa Rica both a fantastic and varied place to travel. It’s also caused its prices to rise and become one of the more expensive choices for adventure holidays you can take while travelling Central America .

The trade-off? It’s the goddamn birthplace of the zipline, remember?

Picture this: you’re cruising along at a cool 70km/hr. Beneath you, the rippling greens of the jungle canopy blur together. At the end of the line, a crew of trained squirrel monkeys await your arrival, a chilled refresco and caramel flan in hand. Ok, I made that last bit up (but I’m a writer , don’t you know).

La Fortuna is your best destination for adventure tourism in Costa Rica. It’s a small town close to the piercing Arenal Volcano (which is an absolutely magnificent creature). In the area, you’ll find hiking, canyoning, rafting, and of course, the jungle zipline!

And, if you’re more of a beach person, head towards Costa Rica’s coast for snorkelling and scuba diving action.

#5 USA: The Adventure Travel MECCA

Heading north from Central America takes us to… North America. Yeah, that makes sense.

What will you find while exploring the USA?

A lot of flag-waving patriots who chase tornadoes and pull their own teeth out on account of the lack of medical insurance. Anyway, other than that, you’ll find SO MUCH epic, adventure travel!

The big, bold, and beautiful US of A is chock full of adventurous places to visit .

So, where to travel for adventures in the USA? God, what do you like? Canyons, mountains, coasts, great lakes, rivers, prairies… it’s all there.

• Moab (Utah) takes the top pick as one of the best places for an adventure vacation in the USA. It is the go-to for mountain biking with courses ranging from the beginner all the way up to the ‘holy shit, I might die’ . You’ll also find heaps of sweet rafting, ATV driving, horseback riding… it’s an adrenaline junkie’s desert playground!
• Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming) has hiking and hot springs. That’s a no brainer! Anywhere that has hot springs is going to make for a top trip.
• Colorado: home of the Rocky Mountains! What do you get there? Mate, were you not listening; I just told you – the Rocky Mountains! Hikes, rock climbing, and legal bud; it may just be heaven-on-earth.
• Yosemite National Park, California : is the impossible-to-not-mention choice. The undisputed king of the USA’s national parks featuring the truly staggering peaks of free-soloing ‘What’s a rope?’ Alex Honnold fame.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

#6 Argentina: Adventure Travel at the End of the World

If you head in the other direction from Central America (by which I mean south) you get to travelling South America . That also makes sense. 

There are a lot of kick-ass destinations for adventure trips in South America: Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador jump to mind. But Argentina has Patagonia. And I’m all about those harsh, sparsely populated wildernesses.

This idea for adventure travel is not for the faint of heart – you’re heading into challenging terrain. Look at a map of Argentina. You’re nearly at the bottom of the world. But challenging is the whole point, right?

And backpacking Patagonia is only one region of Argentina you need to explore. It’s a big damn country with a lot of cool places to see (the Ibera Wetlands come to mind). 

Argentina is so big and so damn gorgeous that it’s picking up steam as one of the best places for adventure travel in a van. Van life is preferred by many scroungy vagabonds – because a van makes perfect sense for an adventure vacation on a budget.

The northernmost point to the southernmost point of the land at the end of the world… now that’s a journey idea!

#7 Canada: Adventure Travel With a Dash of Solitude

Since we’re talking about vast, harsh, sparsely populated wildernesses, we should talk about Canada. You’ve got a lot of chill places and cool cities in Canada ( like Vancouver )… and then you head into the great outdoors and oh wow!

It’s mega pretty .

What kind of extreme adventure vacations can you get up to in Canada? Well… that depends on how extreme you’re willing to go.

For something fun but with a low chance of death, there’s skiing and snowboarding at a resort such as Whistler. Hit the slopes and then get all the perks of a ski-town: loud parties and hordes of drunk Australians. Don’t worry, we’ve got awesome hostel suggestions for budget adventurers too! 

Oh, you wanted something with a high chance of death? Sorry, I misheard you. How about ice-climbing UP A FROZEN WATERFALL! How’s that for an extreme adventure vacation? It’s your very own Tom Cruise movie!

Banff is one of your best adventure travel destinations in Canada. You’ll find the aforementioned ice-climbing there (yesssss) plus a bunch of other cool shit: national parks to adventure in , hot springs, and skiing.

North from Banff (and not too far by Canadian standards) is Jasper National Park with more wilderness and hikes. If it’s solitude that you’re seeking in your adventure travels, then travelling the Canadian wilderness has what you need.

Just watch out for bears. Although, they make a spray for that.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#8 Mongolia: Adventure Travel With The OG Nomads

This is one of the best adventure holidays in Asia as far as I’m concerned. It’s a long-time dream of mine: to ride a horse on the plains of Mongolia. I haven’t done it yet – timing is important – so I’m recommending you to do it.

Why? Well, if you want to truly call yourself a nomad, then you gotta be a damn nomad! You need a horse on the plateaus of Mongolia. You need to search for water for your travelling companion and shoot at horse thieves with your bow.

I met a good dude in New Zealand. He’d never ridden a horse before and he was curious, so he went to Mongolia and made his very own horseback adventure tour. Now that is bad-ass!

Seriously though, Mongolia is a country of beautiful yet unforgiving terrain and the Mongolian people have unlocked its secrets, able to live nomadically and tend livestock amongst its deserts, plains, and hills. It’s also smack-bang between Russia and China so wherever you go, you’ll be off the beaten track .

If you’re interested in Mongolian culture, I’d recommend being there in October. Every year in the first week of October is the Golden Eagle Festival where you can see skill contests in archery, wrestling and eagle hunting. Not hunting eagles but hunting with eagles –  they’re the OG nomads, man!

#9 China: The Other Best Place for Adventure Travel that Makes People Say, “You went where!?”

Good ol’ communist China: the antithesis to the American Dream. It’s like going to another planet so, if you can’t get ‘off the beaten track’ there, you’re probably doing something wrong. China is a hit with backpackers in search of adventure!

You’ll almost always be mildly-to-noticeably uncomfortable which makes for some of the most character-building adventure holidays for both single travellers and couples. It’s also a solid destination choice for a cheap adventure holiday. It’s not as cheap as, say, Nepal, but it’s cheaper than most people realise (especially if you’re camping in nature ).

So, what kind of adventure activities await in China? Well, trekking galore; I’ve heard the Great Wall is kind of long and, yup, you can camp on it! Or you can visit Tiger Leaping Gorge or Mount Huashan which is considered one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world. Deadly hiking in China – now that’s an extreme adventure vacation!

I mean, hell, just buy a bicycle and see how far you can get across the supreme landscape. It’s China, you’re pretty much guaranteed an adventure no matter where you go!

#10 Zimbabwe: Adventure Travel With a Touch of Sun and Crocodiles

There’s three more entries on our list and three more continents to explore. Let’s make a shift over to Africa now… to Zimbabwe! Africa is one hell of a trip that will always make you laugh!

If we’re talking Zimbabwe adventures, we’re talking Victoria Falls. Oh, the falls? They’re drop-dead breathtakingly ‘life is beautiful’ gorgeous. Absolutely stunning.

Victoria Falls has built itself up as the best adventure holiday destination in Africa. You’ll find a huge scope of adventure activities in Victoria Falls including bungy-jumping, gorge-swinging, flying foxes, rapid rafting (I’m talking those infamous grade V and VI options), and cage diving with crocodiles. Diving with crocs… it’s an adrenaline junkie’s paradise!

It’s also warm – with swimming involved! It’s a nice change of pace from the freezing-cold murderous wildernesses I keep sending you to (just wait for the last two entries on this list, muahahaha)!

And since you’re in Zimbabwe (and how often do you end up over that way, realistically) maybe explore the rest of the country. Victoria Falls is surrounded by gorgeous national parks and there are plenty of adventure safari tours to partake in.

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#11 Scandinavia: Adventure Travel With Freedom to Roaaaaam

Right, let’s talk about adventure holidays you can have while backpacking Europe. Are we talking about the stunning (and warm) Amalfi Coast or the tranquil (and warm) beaches of Portugal? Hah, nope, it’s back to freezing your tits off. Apparently, adventure is best served cold.

I think the reasons to send you to Scandinavia should be relatively obvious: a massive and untamed wilderness of eclectic beauty that will bitchslap you upside the face if you don’t respect it. Just my type. 😉

But, there’s another reason: something called “freedom to roam” . Laws vary by location and discussions on environmental impact is important but it is, I feel, the way adventure travel should be.

Every human has the right to disappear into nature and just be. Just be without electricity, and goddamn Wi-Fi, and the white noise of the world. Time to just spend some time without your phone, and straight-up forest bathing.

So if you’re looking for the best places to escape alone, the Scandinavian/Nordic countries have got you covered. If you’re also looking for the best adventure holidays for couples, you should consider Scandinavia because everybody knows that disappearing into the wilderness for weeks at a time is better with someone that lets you touch their butt.

Where are you going? Wherever you damn well please, that’s my point. Take a compass. And if you don’t feel like walking then saddle up a reindeer – and go disappear… safely. Light a campfire (legally) and watch the stars and the lights in the northern sky which no man owns no matter how much they wish they did.

#12 Antarctica: The Final Boss of Your Adventure Travels

I said we were going to all seven continents, right? I also said adventure is best served cold.

Yes, you can do adventure travel in Antarctica. Yes, it is more expensive than anything else on this list and no you can’t go unguided unless you break away from your tour group ( NOT a good idea). This is about the most extreme adventure trip you can take until Elon Musk sorts out that whole space/moon tourism thing. But, let’s be real, do we really want him to?

Most Antarctica tours involve a cruise and will take you to and around parts of the continent – usually, the Antarctic peninsula which is pretty damn close to Argentina (hence the ‘land at the end of the world’ thing). Some of them will also take you to the Falkland Islands which are super damn pretty.

Now, you could always shore up your boat life skills and test the hell out of yourself and your crew by sailing there…

Either way, you can expect a lot of wildlife watching as well as some adventure activities alongside such as kayaking, scuba diving, and paddle-boarding. Notice how all those activities had some relation to the freezing-cold water…

Yep, that’s what to expect from Antarctica: desolation, magnificence, and feeling permanently cold all the time. But hot damn if she’s not gorgeous.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Now I’m giving you your broccoli. You don’t have to eat it; you do you, man.

Depending on where you look, you’ll find several definitions of adventure tourism. Of course, as we all know, stuffy definitions created by stuffy people don’t often encapsulate the whole truth. But we need to talk about the consequences of these stuffy definitions.

In 1953 Edmund Hillary and Tenzig Norgay were the first ever to summit Mount Everest. Now, just over 65 years later (less than the lifespan of a person) over 8000 people have summited the peak.

Now, there’s something to be said about the advantages and disadvantages of adventure tourism but it doesn’t help with our definition for the purpose of this article. Thus, I’ve decided on three criteria to define adventure travel by:

• There’s some level of an inherent risk involved i.e. injury or death is increased in likelihood by the activity.
• The activity revolves around interaction and interplay with nature and the outdoors.
• There is a market, sub-culture, and level of commercial gain behind the activity.

The adventure activity can be guided or unguided; paid for or free; and range anywhere from death is a slim possibility to ‘Dude, who gets your PlayStation when you die?’ .

But, generally speaking, your best places for adventure travel are going to be marketed as primo adventure tourism holiday destinations. With that comes all the perks and caveats of a place well-worn by tourists.

I’d also like to define the difference between adventure travel and a journey . Hitchhiking across China, walking through the Middle-East, or backpacking around South Africa are all great journeys (and some of my ultimate bucket list ideas), but they’re not adventure travel holidays since they’re not primarily driven by the purpose of tourism. That’s a personal journey, mate!

Types of Adventure Tourism: Hard Adventure Activities

Ok, so seriously, if you want to discuss types of adventure travel, there are lots of ways to break it down and a lot of different sub-categories. That’s the point of my criteria above and my separation of a ‘journey’ and ‘adventure travel’ . 

One of my favourite types of journeying (which many would rightfully consider adventure travel) is overland travel (i.e. no planes). However, telling you to start in Japan and finish in Italy without using planes wouldn’t make for a very appealing article. It does, however, make for a seriously dope journey!

So, the first category of adventure tourism activities that we’re going to talk about are the ‘hard’ type. Generally, the activities defining this category pose a sizeable risk… of death.

When you’re partaking in these adventure travel ideas, generally it’s better to know what you’re doing to avoid that whole ‘dying young’ thing:

• Mountaineering
• Ice Climbing
• Wingsuiting
• Base Jumping
• Bear Fighting

For the record, I made that last one up… I hope…

Types of Adventure Tourism: Soft Adventure Activities

These examples of adventure tourism tend to be less hazardous and generally less dangerous than fighting a bear on an ice mountain while wearing a wingsuit. They have lower overall death-related statistics and your mum isn’t going to complain as much when you tell her what you’ve been up to.

It’s worthy to note that most of these activities’ risks can be mitigated by having a professional guide or partaking in some sort of adventure holiday tour. Conversely, the risks can be heightened (i.e. made more fun) by pushing the limits of the activity, often upgrading it to a hard adventure activity. Try rafting some grade VI rapids and you’ll see what I mean:

• Trekking/hiking/orienteering
• Kayaking/rafting/canoeing
• Bungee jumping
• Skiing/snowboard
• Mountain biking

Obviously, this far from a complete list but it does give you an idea for what you’re in for when visiting some of the best places in the world for adventure travel… that being a whole lotta fun!

Why Visit the Best Places for Adventure Travel?

Well, I feel I sorta already addressed that with the whole ‘combatting the existential abyss inside your soul’ thing but, yeah, there are other reasons too.

It’s about the challenge. Sure, the advent of the adventure tourism industry mitigates the challenge somewhat (see the above example of Mount Everest) but it’s still an adventure – it’s in the name, after all!

And it’s your adventure! Take it as far and as dangerous as you like. You do you.

It’s about growth : growth through hardship. Learning to take things in stride. Learning that things, most of the time, will be ok. You just have to keep moving.

It’s about getting dirty. Because, everybody knows, being covered in dirt, and mud, and scratches, and leeches makes you appreciate a hot shower just a little more.

And, it’s about contentment. It’s about, one day, when you’re eighty years old and nestled in your rocking chair reminiscing on the life you’ve lived, you can say: “Yeah, that was pretty good. I’d say, overall, I did a good job – 7 out of 10… oh, maybe a 7.5.”

You could think of your travels as a way to create a lifetime reel of memories to spin into epic yarns to bother your grandkids with…

But adventure travel is also about connecting to life and our planet, which, in case you hadn’t heard, is pretty bloody gorgeous.

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Right, so that’s your dessert: 12 of the best places for adventure travel across the seven continents of our world. And some damn fine choices too, if I do say so myself!

And you ate your broccoli. Good, I’m proud of you. No, you can’t have a second dessert! But you can have some more broccoli. 😉

So, before you inevitably go and tear it up snowboarding, rafting, or bear fighting, I’d like to touch on a few more things to note. A few practical considerations of the environment, taking care of yourself, and just generally not being a knob-jockey while you’re engaging in your Evel Knievel ways.

Toursim: the Double Edged Sword

This topic is really deserving of (and has many) socio-ecological research papers, but it goes without saying that adventure tourism has an impact. Think about Pokhara in Nepal: what was once considered one of the most mystical places in Nepal is now a bustling city that is known as its ‘tourism capital’.

But, again, think about Pokhara: a city that was once only accessible by foot is now one of the most affluent cities in Nepal. It’s a huge metropolis that garners a large amount of revenue for a developing nation and supplies jobs and a better quality of life for many people. It’s here that you start to wonder: is budget travel ethical?

Tourism is a double-edged sword and adventure tourism only takes a whetstone to the blade. As per my original definition, it usually entails some form of interaction with the natural environment and, as you may have noticed, it also usually involves some form of interaction with cultures unaccustomed to the West. Which means they are unaccustomed to – let’s say – the ugly side of Western tourism.

So be a good dude; it’s just that simple. Nothing grandiose – just stay aware, be responsible, and be respectful. Be respectful of other cultures and the people there; their sole purpose in life is not to make sure our one-week-itinerary travel adventure trips blows up on the socials. 

And be respectful of our environment. It was here long before we were carving it up with snowboards and mountain bikes and it’ll be here long after it’s wiped us all out for carving it up with snowboards and mountain bikes.

Past that, you do you. You know how to be a good human. And if you’re travelling and not being a good human… it’s only a matter of time until someone – local, traveller, or Mama Nature herself – sorts you out.

Travel Insurance for Best Places for Adventure Travel Holidays

Goddamn! All this adventure and far-flung locales and talk of bears – maybe it would be smart to protect yourself with some insurance?

Things do go wrong when you travel, particularly if you’re doing hectic shit in the most hectic corners of the planet.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

That’s it. The whole list. If you do one of these ultimate bucket list ideas , well done. If you do all 12… geez, dude, legend; you’re a braver human than me.

So, what are my final thoughts on the 12 best adventure holidays in the world? Honestly, I think I’ve touched on all of it already.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re after a cheap adventure holiday, an extreme vacation, or a journey away from where all tours can take you. Just remember, that it’s the adventure that connects us to travel and to life.

Just remember that adventure is awesome. And that it keeps us alive. And that it is these stories that you’ll be telling your grandkids one day. So make them grand and beautiful and dangerous and filled with plot twists.

Tell a good story.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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9 All-Inclusive Resorts for Outdoor Recreation

Skip complete relaxation in favor of exciting adventures and wellness-oriented activities.

iStockPhoto

With versatile outdoor activities, from mountain biking to cross-country skiing, included in a predictable price tag, these all-inclusive properties are ideal for adventure-loving travelers.

Today's all-inclusive properties offer access to beautiful white-sand beaches, cerulean waters and top-notch activities at a reasonable (and predictable) rate. But not all all-inclusive resorts are created equal. While many properties position themselves as relaxing, oceanfront hideaways, there are just as many hotels that offer action-packed and exhilarating sporting opportunities. If you like the idea of planning a stress-free getaway at an all-inclusive but don't want to lounge along a beach all day, consider these off-the-beaten path options that will keep you active all day long, with heart-pumping activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, yoga lessons and even dog sledding.

[See: 50 American Adventures in 50 States. ]

Tanque Verde Ranch Tucson, Arizona

Arizona's Tanque Verde Ranch sits within the stunning desert landscape of Saguaro National Park in Tucson . The property includes outdoor activities all age groups can enjoy, three hearty daily meals and riding tours on the trails of the Sonoran Desert. Other inclusive amenities include horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, guided hikes, yoga and arts and crafts. Indoor and outdoor pools and a supervised kids ranch are also included, along with evening activities and entertainment.

The Ranch at Rock Creek Philipsburg, Montana

Set among the rugged Montana wilderness, The Ranch at Rock Creek is an all-inclusive dude ranch. Families can stay in authentic log cabins and historic barns, along with luxury canvas cabins ideal for a glamping getaway. Year-round activities offered include fly-fishing, horseback riding, clay-shooting, geocaching, hiking, biking and more. Winter sports offered include snowshoeing, sleigh rides, ice skating and sledding, as well as trips to a local ski area. What's more, guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining with meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Vista Verde Guest Ranch Clark, Colorado

Steamboat Springs, Colorado, hosts more than beautiful views. At Vista Verde Guest Ranch, a luxury ranch with all-inclusive experience, you can tap into your inner adventurer with adrenaline-pumping activities. Vacation packages include airport pickups, log cabins accommodations and meals prepared by talented chefs. Plus, the 600-acre property is surrounded by millions of acres of national forest, making the area ideal for backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, horseback riding, fat biking and more. Other active offerings include dance and yoga lessons and cooking classes.

Vermejo Park Ranch Raton, New Mexico

Vermejo Park Ranch, which is part of the Ted Turner Expeditions portfolio, offers an eco-conscious all-inclusive experience adventure-loving families will swoon over. The property boasts a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, bison, black bears and mountain lions. Luxury accommodations are offered, and nightly rates include all meals and activities like horseback riding, fishing, mountain biking, hiking and 3-D archery.

[See: The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico 2017 .]

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Puerto Aventuras, Mexico

The all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya has partnered with extreme sports lifestyle leader Woodward for its first ever action-sport facility in Mexico. This means guests can take advantage of a traditional all-inclusive resort experience, complete with beautiful beaches and flowing drinks, along with the option to participate in various sports programs catering to all age groups. You can take your pick from skateboarding, scooter, gymnastics, cheer and dry-land snowboarding and skiing, among other included programs.

Tordrillo Mountain Lodge Anchorage, Alaska

If you love the great outdoors, consider retreating to Tordrillo Mountain Lodge in Anchorage . This all-inclusive property boasts lavish accommodations along with opportunities for extreme sporting activities that aren't for the faint of heart. During winter, you can participate in heli-skiing, fat biking, snow hiking and other cold-weather sports. In the warmer months, you can enjoy king salmon fishing, hiking and river trips. Fine dining is also included in the nightly rate, along with hot tubs, saunas and access to an on-site spa.

Snow Mountain Ranch Granby, Colorado

Snow Mountain Ranch is part of the YMCA of the Rockies, and sits just outside Winter Park, Colorado. The property boasts more than 60 miles of hiking trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Fat biking is also popular the resort, along with dog sledding, ice skating and snow tubing. Families who want indoor fun can also roller skate, swim, participate in archery or rock climb. Accommodations vary from rustic to high-end rooms, and some units are dog-friendly. What's more, all-inclusive meal packages can be paired with overnight stays.

Waterfall Resort Alaska Hydaburg, Alaska

This all-inclusive saltwater fishing resort offers a welcome respite for anglers who dream of fly-fishing on freshwater rivers. The property, which sits on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, offers access to sought-after fishing of wild king and silver salmon. Amazing wildlife can also be seen during the day, including humpback whales, sea lions, black bears, deer and bald eagles. Even better, the all-inclusive meals rely on local fare and ingredients, including freshly caught fish from the day's catch.

[See: 10 All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free .]

Twin Farms Barnard, Vermont

Vermont's Twin Farms, an 18th-century farmhouse, offers a unique combination relaxation and adventure. Sports offered on-site include tennis, canoeing, fly-fishing, and croquet. Plus, nearby ski slopes and trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular during winter months. Luxury cottages and rooms are available to suit any taste, and rooms include added amenities like in-room snacks and drinks, puzzles and laundry service. All meals, including wine pairings, are included in the nightly rate.

The Best Winter Getaway in Every State

Tags: Travel , Vacations , All-Inclusive Vacations

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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I visit Universal Orlando several times a year. Here are my top 10 tips for first-timers.

I’ll never forget walking out of Universal Islands of Adventure in 2022, drenched from head to toe after riding Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barge . 

It was my first trip back to Universal Orlando Resort in years, and I learned some things the hard way, which I gladly shared with fellow travelers, hoping that they’d avoid my mistakes .

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Florida resort several times a year. And while I stand by my earlier tips, I’ve learned a few others.

Here are my top tips for first-timers visiting Universal Orlando.

1.  Stay on property

From RV parks to vacation rentals, there’s no shortage of places to stay in Central Florida, but it can pay to stay on property when visiting Universal Orlando. Not only are prices comparable to off-property hotels with Endless Summer Surfside and Dockside starting at $99 a night, but all of Universal’s resort hotels offer 30 minutes of early entry to select parks, which vary depending on time of year. 

They also provide free resort transportation, so you can get back to your room fairly quickly after a long park day or for a midday break. That free transportation can be clutch in the mornings, particularly at pricier Loews Sapphire Falls , Loews Royal Pacific , Loews Portofino Bay , and Hard Rock Hotel , which offer water taxis that drop you off closer to the parks than you can get arriving by car or bus. Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel guests can walk over to Sapphire Falls for water taxis, but the extra time and steps added may make it not worth skipping the resort shuttle bus.

Walking paths are also available to the parks from every resort hotel except the Endless Summer ones. Cabana Bay guests also have a dedicated walking path to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.

Guests staying at Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay and Hard Rock also get free Universal Express Passes , which dramatically cut waits for most rides and normally start at $79.99 per person. Free package delivery is also available to all resort hotels, if guests don’t want to lug park purchases around all day.

Epic Universe details revealed: What's coming to Universal Orlando next year

2. Buy a popcorn bucket

Snacking at the parks can get expensive. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, but there’s one crowd-pleaser that won’t break the bank. 

A plain popcorn bucket costs a little over $12, and you can keep getting refills throughout your trip. Refills cost around $2 each, making popcorn among the cheapest, most shareable snacks on property. On our last trip, my family and I got multiple refills for the price of one pretzel with cheese dip.

3.  Bring a light, refillable water bottle

Staying hydrated is always important, particularly on hot park days. 

You can fill water bottles with free ice-cold water at any of the many Coca-Cola Freestyle machines across the property. Cups of ice water are also available for free anywhere dispensed soft drinks are sold.

Leave big double-walled stainless steel tumblers at home. Not only will they feel heavy, carrying them around all the day, but if they aren’t leak-proof, they’ll make a mess when you tip them on their sides to fit in lockers for thrill rides.

4. Bring a medium-sized bag to carry your stuff

Numerous attractions, from Jurassic World VelociCoaster to Men in Black Alien Attack , require guests to store loose articles in lockers provided for the duration of the ride. 

I previously recommended keeping most of your things together to avoid having to empty every pocket each time. That’s still true, but I want to add a caveat on size. 

The free lockers aren’t very big. They can fit a Loungefly-style mini backpack or empty popcorn bucket, if you squish them down, but they’re not large enough for packed full-size backpacks. Keep that in mind unless you want to pay for larger lockers.

5. Bring ponchos

Ponchos don’t take a lot of space and can save you from getting soaked like me on Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barge, Dudley Do-Right’s Rip Saw Falls , and Jurassic Park River Adventure .

Even if you skip water rides, ponchos are good to keep on hand for rainy park days.

6. Use single-rider lines 

Many attractions have a single-rider lane. If you’re traveling alone or don’t mind your party being split up, you can save time using the single-rider lane, if it’s open. They’re not always offered.

It doesn’t guarantee a short wait, but it’s usually shorter. On our latest trip, my middle schooler still waited at least 45 minutes for The Incredible Hulk Coaster and an hour for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit . That was about as long as the regular standby wait for Hulk but shorter than the standby wait for Rip Ride Rockit.

The following attractions have single-rider lanes, though availability varies.

Universal Studios Florida

• E.T. Adventure.
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
• Men in Black Alien Attack.
• Revenge of the Mummy.
• The Simpsons Ride.
• Transformers: The Ride-3D.

Universal Islands of Adventure

• Doctor Doom's Fearfall.
• Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls.
• Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
• Jurassic Park River Adventure.
• Jurassic World VelociCoaster.
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster.

7. Use child swap 

If someone in your party doesn’t meet ride requirements for an attraction or simply wants to sit it out, you can ask for a child swap. It’s particularly helpful for families with young children because it allows parents and caregivers to take turns riding the ride and staying with whoever is sitting it out.

On our most recent trip, my youngest didn’t want to ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure , so we all waited in line together, but then she and I peeled off to a designated waiting room while my middle schooler and mother-in-law went on the ride. When they were done, my mother-in-law stayed with my youngest while I went on the ride. My middle schooler lucked out, getting to ride it twice.

Not all attractions have waiting rooms, but they all offer swaps. Just let team members know you need one.

8. Take breaks

Theme parks can be exhausting. Not only are you on your feet all day, but they can be loud, crowded and overstimulating. 

When possible, I like to plan for at least one sit-down meal in the day. This way, I can take my time and recuperate in air conditioning away from crowds. I’ll typically splurge on one table-service meal, but there are several medium-priced, quick-service restaurants across both theme parks where you can grab a lighter snack and relax.

Really, any cool spot where you can sit down works. Knockturn Alley in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida is always refreshing, though dark. Jurassic Park Discovery Center in Islands of Adventure is a great place for kids to explore while adults unwind. 

9.  Watch the shows

Rides get a lot of the love, but Universal Orlando’s live entertainment is top tier. You can find showtimes on the free resort app or simply stop to watch performances you stumble across while roaming the parks.

The only year-round shows with dedicated seating are at Universal Studios Florida: Animal Actors On Location! , The Bourne Stuntacular , and Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, which is more funny than scary.

10. Let little ones stretch their legs

There are several play areas across both theme parks for little ones to burn off energy.

This summer, a new DreamWorks Land will open at Universal Studios Florida with a “Kung Fu Panda”-themed play area.

At Islands of Adventure, kids can explore Camp Jurassic in Jurassic Park, If I Ran a Zoo in Seuss Landing, and Me Ship, The Olive in Toon Lagoon. There are also splash pads and water features across Toon Lagoon; just make sure to either bring swimsuits or backup clothes for those.

Bonus: Don’t sleep on Volcano Bay

You’ll definitely want to pack swimsuits if you’re heading to Volcano Bay, which regularly ranks among the best water parks in the country and adds a completely different experience to vacations.

It’s themed like a tropical paradise, with plenty of trees and an iconic volcano that houses multiple water slides. The water park can get crowded, but you never spend too much time standing in line because every guest gets a Tapu Tapu wearable bracelet that lets them join one virtual queue at a time. 

Single-day tickets start at $80, which is considerably less than the $119 starting price for guests age 10 and up at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, but still not cheap. However, if you’re already planning to buy multiday tickets for both theme parks, tacking on Volcano Bay is not much more.

10 Best Mountain Resorts In The US You Should Book In 2024

These beautiful mountain resorts in the US are the perfect spots to soak in the beauty of awe-inspiring peaks and other natural scenery.

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More Details About The Best Mountain Resorts In The US

• Mountain resorts offer a unique allure with their beautiful surroundings and serene atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
• The best mountain resorts have ever-changing scenery across seasons, allowing guests to enjoy activities like leaf peeping in the fall and skiing in the winter.
• These handpicked mountain resorts have exceptional ratings and offer top-tier accommodations, excellent services, and access to outdoor activities, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Like mountain towns, even those that are the most underrated in America , mountain resorts have a unique allure that sets them apart from vacation destinations in bustling cities. Their breathtaking surroundings, mostly of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, or lush forests, offer a serene and relaxing atmosphere. Add to that the fresh air and private suites or villas that guarantee unmatched seclusion.

Unlike hotels in overdeveloped cities, the best mountain resorts have ever-changing scenery across different seasons. During the fall, their surrounding landscapes are graced by magnificent fall foliage, while in the winter, the powdery snow turns the area into a skiing paradise. Here are the best mountain resorts tourists can book in the US in 2024 for a laid-back or adventure-filled getaway. Some are near the most underrated mountain towns in the US that are perfect for leaf peeping once the fall rolls in.

We’ve thoroughly researched and handpicked mountain resorts across the US with an exceptional rating of 8.0 and above. This means that most of the previous guests vouch for them for their scenic settings amidst nature, top-tier accommodations, and excellent services.

UPDATE: 2024/03/22 01:40 EST BY FELIX NGESO

This article has more interactive features on the resort's location and nearby attractions. We've also ensured all hotels are up to standard, as seen from their high ratings garnered from previous verified guests.

14 Authentic Resorts To Try In The Catskill Mountains

Four seasons resort rancho encantado santa fe , santa fe, new mexico.

Travelers feel enchanted by the rugged beauty surrounding the romantic Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado . This intimate resort sits at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range and covers about 57 sprawling acres. Besides exploring the resort's beautifully landscaped acres, guests schedule expert-guided hikes to Abiquiu or historical and cultural excursions to Santa Fe or the nearby Bandelier National Monument . After a sightseeing half-day out, visitors head to the spa for therapeutic massages, relieving muscle tension, pain, and stress lasting from 50-80 minutes.

• Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center
• Nearby attractions: Palace of the Governors , Museum of International Folk Art , New Mexico History Museum , Museum of Indian Arts & Culture

Topnotch Resort , Stowe, Vermont

Topnotch Resort immerses vacationers in the alluring mountain and Vermont spirit with its strategic location. This sophisticated mountain gem boasts stylish accommodations seamlessly blending top-tier amenities and mountain style that complement the surrounding natural beauty throughout the year. Depending on their needs, guests choose from intimate suites for two or spacious private homes ideal for vacationing families or friends. Moreover, Topnotch Resort welcomes furry companions in pet-friendly rooms, offering designated bedding specially made for them. Since Vermont is known for its gorgeous fall foliage, Topnotch Resort is one of the best hotels in Vermont to book for an unforgettable fall getaway .

• Accommodation: Topnotch Resort
• Amenities: Outdoor Pool, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Spa and Wellness Center
• Nearby attractions: Smuggler's Notch State Park , Mount Mansfield , Stowe Recreation Path

Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa , Colorado

This luxurious mountain escape with upscale amenities is set within a convenient location, ensuring a stress-free and adventure-filled vacation. Located in the charming Beaver Creek Village, this resort is steps from a skiing school ideal for winter sports enthusiasts who want to try skiing and snowboarding within the area or nearby Vail Valley. However, if visiting during summer, adventurers hike Beaver Creek Mountain or go for whitewater rafting trips down the Colorado River . After all the adventure of hiking the best trails in Colorado , guests unwind in sophisticated accommodations, some with balconies offering mountain or well-manicured courtyard vistas.

• Accommodation: Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Outdoor pool, Restaurant
• Nearby attractions: Beaver Creek Ski Center , Walking Mountains Science Center , Beaver Creek Nordic Center , Avon Recreation Center

10 Best Mountain Resorts In The US You Should Book This Winter

Château élan , north georgia.

Château Élan began with a delicious sip of Muscadine wine and evolved into a recognized winery and one of the best mountain resorts in America. Set in the foothills of north Georgia, this resort is a dream come true for wine enthusiasts, with its daily winery tours at noon included in the resort fee. Food lovers also please their taste buds in several restaurants, such as the Fleur De Lis, serving gourmet dishes. Additionally, the resort boasts elegantly furnished accommodations ranging from spacious guestrooms to heavenly spa villas, ideal for solo and group travelers.

• Accommodation: Château Élan
• Nearby attractions: R. H. Burel Park , Elachee Nature Science Center , City Pond Park , Colleen O. Williams Theater

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney's Resort & Spa , Paradise Valley, Arizona

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa is a 53-acre haven of relaxation, with the majestic Camelback Mountain as a picturesque backdrop. Vacationers revel in the beautiful mountainside setting as they stroll around the lush manicured grounds or luxuriate along the resort's inviting infinity pool while sampling cocktails. After working up an appetite, guests savor delicious farm-fresh American cuisine with Asian accents at the on-site Elements Restaurant. The day ends with holidaymakers surrendering to the serene ambiance of the chic accommodations with luxurious amenities and gorgeous sunset views, especially in the private mountainside villas.

• Accommodation: Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney's Resort & Spa
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi
• Nearby attractions: Desert Botanical Garden , Phoenix Zoo , University of Phoenix Stadium

Four Seasons Resort & Residences Jackson Hole , Wyoming

Four Seasons Resort & Residences is a 5-star mountain resort in the US that exposes travelers to year-round activities ranging from skiing in winter to mountain biking in summer. Moreover, it's close to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks , making it a base for wildlife lovers to observe elk and wolves in their natural habitat. After exploring the great outdoors, guests recharge in luxurious accommodations with spectacular courtyards, valleys, and mountain vistas. While solo travelers find a haven in the spacious, well-appointed guestrooms, group travelers reconnect with their loved ones in the private residences, accommodating up to 12 guests.

• Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort & Residences
• Amenities: Outdoor/Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant
• Nearby attractions: National Museum of Wildlife Art , Jackson Hole Rodeo, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

10 Best Mountain Resorts in Europe You Should Book This Winter

Edgewood tahoe , stateline, nevada.

Edgewood Tahoe is an alpine escape sitting along the shores of the stunning Lake Tahoe. This beautiful mountain resort in America goes all out to ensure guests have a hassle-free staycation with all the amenities they need in the rustic and serene accommodations. When hungry, travelers dine in the casual Bistro Restaurant serving American fare or Brooks' Bar and Deck, offering gourmet comfort on a broad deck. For a fine dining experience, food lovers reserve a table at the Edgewood Restaurant, known for its vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free meal options and striking mountain and lake views. Due to its perfect setting, Edgewood Tahoe is one of Lake Tahoe’s resorts that offers easy access to the best hiking trails nearby.

• Accommodation: Edgewood Tahoe
• Amenities: Private beach, Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center
• Nearby attractions: Rabe Meadows , Kahle Park and Community Center , Ski Run Marina

Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, New York

Whiteface Lodge is one of the top-rated resorts in the Adirondacks for those seeking fall foliage views and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Apart from luring leaf peepers, this mountain hideaway is a haven for lake revelers, offering complimentary shuttle rides to Canoe Club Grill. Water sports enthusiasts canoe, kayak, or swim as they admire the Whiteface Mountain vistas at this exclusive facility. In the evening, guests retreat in forest-inspired lodges with fully equipped kitchens, cast-iron fireplaces, and balconies accommodating solo and group travelers.

• Accommodation: Whiteface Lodge
• Amenities: Private beach, Outdoor pool, Indoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center
• Nearby attractions: Lake Placid, Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails , Lake Placid Center for the Arts , Lake Placid Olympic Museum , John Brown Farm State Historic Site

The Inn on Biltmore Estate , Asheville, North Carolina

The iconic Inn on Biltmore Estate is one of the best mountain resorts in the United States, worth visiting in 2024 for its breathtaking mountain views and impeccable facilities. This grand resort is a former home of George Washington Vanderbilt II, and it features luxurious accommodations named after the former owner’s relatives or friends. Besides accessing thoughtful in-room amenities, guests utilize the resort's state-of-the-art fitness center, serene spa, seasonal pool, and hot tub. At the same time, travelers who want to venture outside the resort can schedule fishing and rafting trips along the French Board River with the concierge.

• Accommodation: The Inn on Biltmore Estate
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Spa, Restaurant, Fitness center
• Nearby attractions: Biltmore Estate Winery , Axeville Axe Throwing , Adventure Center of Asheville , Cathedral of All Souls

Stein Eriksen Lodge , Park City, Utah

Stein Eriksen Lodge is an award-winning mountain resort in the US, promising an unforgettable stay in its uniquely styled lodges and excellent services from attentive staff. Nestled in the heart of Deer Valley, this mountain retreat puts adventurers within reach of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and four-wheel driving. With the assistance of the attentive concierge, travelers enjoy a memorable mountain experience in Park City, Utah’s hidden ski gem, where they engage in exciting year-round outdoor activities . Alternatively, guests craving relaxation find tranquility in the five-star on-site spa offering Himalayan Salt Stone exfoliation treatments and rebalancing stone massages, alleviating discomfort.

• Accommodation: Stein Eriksen Lodge
• Amenities: Fitness center, Outdoor pool, Restaurant
• Nearby attractions: Park City Museum, Utah Olympic Park , Deer Creek Reservoir , Woodward Park City , Deer Valley Resort

The Best Rides At Universal's Islands of Adventure (According To a 10 year old)

Any trip to Orlando would be complete without visiting Universal Orlando Resort, which is made up of three theme parks.

In this guide, we’re going to be sharing our favorite rides from Universal’s Islands of Adventure , which is known for its thrill rides.

It has seven individually themed islands, each with its own attractions, restaurants and shops.

All the rides and attractions are based after books, movies, Marvel comics, or mythology.

As a Harry Potter fan, I was excited to visit the main Harry Potter section of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter which is located in this theme park, as well as one of the BEST rides EVER; The Incredible Hulk.

Personally, Islands of Adventure is my favourite theme park at Universal Orlando Resort.

If you’re planning a visit here and not sure which rides to go on, then this guide is for you! I’ve listed my favorite Universal Islands of Adventure rides so you can pick a few to go on during your trip.

Jurassic Park

Toon lagoon, seuss landing, the lost continent, marvel super hero island, rides at hogsmeade, islands of adventure, harry potter and the forbidden journey.

• Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

The Hogsmeade Experience

Use child swap, be a single rider, go early and stay late, get universal express passes, meet your favorite characters, consider a meal plan, tickets for islands of adventure, where to stay at universal orlando resort, universal orlando resort videos, pin to save on pinterest, the best rides at universal’s islands of adventure.

We had the 3 day park-to-park ticket so we could move between the parks easily.

I highly recommend having that pass. It will make your day so much better, especially for experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

In Islands of Adventure, there are lots of different lands.

For example: Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent (the one we didn’t do), Marvel Super Hero Island, Port of Entry, Toon Lagoon, Suess Landing, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Here are some of our favorite rides in each land.

There wasn’t really much to do in Jurassic Park, but it was still fun.

The Jurassic Park River Adventure ride was fun though and one of our favorites.

You think it’s relaxing until you pass the giant T-Rex and other dinosaurs and do the big, 85-foot drop at the end!

Savannah didn’t know it was coming, actually – nobody knew it was coming lol, except me because I watch videos of intense rides and stuff…..

Anyway, it was so funny to see her face drop and let out a tiny scream!

She’s not into scary rides and we convinced her to come on this saying it was just a gentle float down the river, which we thought it was!! She’ll never forget that ride.

Some more attractions at Jurassic Park:

• Camp Jurassic
• Jurassic Park Discovery Centre
• Pteranodon Flyers
• The Jurassic World VelociCoaster

We didn’t spend too long in Toon Lagoon because there wasn’t much to do in this land.

The famous Skull Island: Reign of Kong ride is located between Toon Lagoon and Jurassic Park, so we rode this one on the way in.

The ride is like a safari that takes you through the story of King Kong. It’s one of the most popular rides in the park.

There was a really fun ride in Toon Lagoon called Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls.

This ride is a water ride and you get soaked!

Since there is child swap, (more information on that later) I got to go on it twice, so I got twice as wet lol!

It is about a 4-5 minute ride so it is one of the longer rides.

Be prepared for the steep drop at the end! (by the way, it’s basically the same steepness as Rip Ride Rocket Roller Coaster!)

Oh, and it was really funny because there was a people dryer right next to the ride!

More rides in Toon Lagoon:

• Me Ship, The Olive
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges

Savannah really liked Seuss Landing because there was a couple of good little rides for her so we visited this land a couple of times.

And since it is literally beside the Harry Potter section, we went here right after some epic magic. Some rides are:

• The Cat in the Hat – Savannah loved this ride!
• Caro – Seuss – ell
• If I ran the zoo
• One fish, Two fish, Red fish, Blue fish
• Oh! The stories you’ll hear!
• The High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!

I definitely recommend this land if you have a child between 2 – 7

We didn’t do The Lost Continent, but it sure looked cool.

Rides and Attractions:

• Poseidon’s Fury
• The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt Show
• The Mystic Fountain

Ok, so this is where the intense stuff begins.

First of all, it is home to my favorite roller coaster, The Incredible Hulk Coaster. This is a launch coaster and goes at high speeds; it’s soooo much fun!

The ride goes for what feels about 5 minutes, and honestly – at the end of it you just might be as green as the Hulk lol. It’s definitely the most intense ride in the park but one that everyone should go on.

It has 7 inversions and I love roller coasters that go upside down! I think it is one of the best roller coasters in Florida.

Another fun ride I recommend, is The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.

Spider-Man is another simulator and motion sickness ride when you sit in a vehicle. The best part is when all the villains attack you and you bump up and down and stuff lol.

Some more rides:

• Doctor Doom’s Fear Fall ( i wanted to do this ride but we ran out of time. Also, you go up fast instead of down)
• Storm Force Accelatron

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade

The incredible Wizarding World of Harry Potter is divided into two sections: Diagon Alley is in Universal Studios Florida, while Hogsmeade and Hogwarts (my favourite section), is in Islands of Adventure.

If you don’t want to do the long walk from park to park, you can ride the awesome Hogwarts Express between the two.

Why would you not want to take this magical train trip each time?

It really feels like you are in the world of Harry Potter.

Pay close attention to the windows, as there are 3D videos shown on the journey.

What is so cool is the videos are different depending on what direction you are traveling.

For example: if you leave Hogsmeade station, Hagrid is waving goodbye. If you leave Kings Cross, it looks like you are traveling from London to Hogwarts.

The Hogwarts Castle is AMAZING (I was literally crying when I walked in lol).

We had one-hour early entry passes because we were staying at Cabana Bay Orlando Resort , so Hogswarts Castle was the first thing we experienced in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Unfortunately it wasn’t the whole Hogwarts Castle because it would take up the entire park lol.

The Harry Potter overture was playing, there was fake snow on the roof, and the castle rising up on the hill in the background.

All the shops from the book are there like Honeydukes, Zonko’s, and so much more. Universal puts so much detail into the wizarding world so it feels like you are in the books.

I felt like I was in my dream world.

Mum was crying as well. (that was from mum because she always pretends to be me when editing my posts and literally changes everything. Btw she wasn’t crying. – kalyra)

I always thought it was silly when people cried at Disney World, but now I understand.

I was overcome by the pure magic of Harry Potter and what J.K. Rowling was able to create. It was so joyful – Caz.

Where to Taste Butterbeer

Ok, if you go to Harry Potter world, I DEFINITELY recommend Butterbeer. ( yes parents, it’s alcohol-free) OMG, it’s delicious!!

I’ll never forget how excited Harry, Ron and Hermione were in the book to try butterbeer and how their first taste was the best thing they had ever tasted.

That’s how we felt after our first taste.

It’s like nothing you’ve ever tasted before and it’s incredibly delicious. How they recreated that exact reaction from the book in real life is incredible.

Butterbeer is like a creamy, butterscotch and creaming soda treat. The marshmallow frothy top is  divine.

Here are the options for your butterbeer:

• Cold ButterBeer (normal) where you can get it in Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron, The Hopping Pot. In Hogsmeade: Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head Pub, and street carts.
• Frozen Butterbeer (like a slushie) You can get this item at the same places. (Mum’s favorite).
• Hot Butterbeer (my fav) In Hogsmeade: Hogs Head Pub
• Butterbeer ice-cream (yum) In Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron. In Hogsmeade: Three Broomsticks
• Potted Cream – Same places as the Butterbeer Ice-cream
• Butterbeer Fudge – In Diagon Alley: Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop Hogsmeade: Honeydukes.

Unfortunately, we missed the fudge and potted cream- we didn’t know about them!

Again, all of these items are non-alcoholic.

Watch our video from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter:

There are two rides at the Hogsmeade section of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The Flight of the Hippogriff

Flight of the Hippogriff  is a great roller coaster for the younger kids. Although it’s a little wild for a beginner ride. Savannah loved this ride because she is a fan of Buckbeak in Harry Potter.

I recommend this roller coaster ride for younger kids.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden journey is one of my favourite rides ever, and one of the best rides at Islands of Adventure.

This is a motion sickness ride and simulator so if you don’t like those kinda rides then I recommend not trying this ride.

However, if you ARE fine with those kind of rides, then I DEFINITELY recommend this ride.

It’s amazing because you go around inside the Hogwarts Castle through different rooms and even in the forbidden forest and on the Quidditch pitch where you can play Quidditch with Harry and Ron.

When you first get on the journey, you can hear music and if you look up to a mirror, you can see Hermione talking to you.

The only part I don’t like in this ride is the dragon part because the dragon blows hot air on you.

The best part in my opinion is the Quidditch section and when the whomping willow is trying to attack you, and you sway to the side and it feels like you are about to go upside down because you also sway backwards.

And if your thinking, no it’s not like normal simulator rides when your in a big movie theater. You actually sit in a vehicle (each one fits 4 people) going through the castle!

Also, the queue is fantastic. I would the ride again just to go through the queue again. Since you’re in the Castle, the queue goes through rooms of the castle and it is absolutely amazing.

Some of the rooms are:

• Defence against the Dark Arts classroom (the best one because Harry, Ron and Hermione talk to you)
• Gryffindor common room, a hallway with picture’s talking and moving, and many more.

The Forbidden Journey is just fantastic and I highly recommend it.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Riding Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is like zooming through the Forbidden Forest on a real magical motorbike!

You get to feel the wind in your hair as you twist and turn past all sorts of creatures like unicorns and Cornish Pixies.

And guess what? Hagrid himself guides you through the forest, showing you all these amazing animals that you’ve only read about in Harry Potter books.

The best part is when the motorbike goes super fast and you feel like you’re flying!

It’s the most exciting ride ever, and I can’t wait to go on it again.

My experience at Hogsmeade was incredible.

My dad was never really into Harry Potter but when we came here it inspired him to read the books.

If you come to Universal Studios or Islands of adventure, you have to check the out The Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Tips for Visiting Islands of Adventure

Mum put me in charge of planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort. So I knew a lot of tips before going that would save us time and money.

We learned a few more during our visit to Islands of adventure in the Universal Orlando Resort.

Dad has written an in-depth post sharing tips for Universal Orlando Resort,  which will save you money and time.

Here are just a few of my favorite tips.

Each ride and attraction has a child swap area where one member of your party can wait with the little ones while the rest of your party rides.

Once they are off the ride, you swap places and whoever rode can stay with the kids while the adult(s) who sat out get the opportunity to enjoy the ride.

This is how I got to have so many turns on each ride. It saved me plenty of wait time to go on rides again. It was awesome.

If you are 10 years or older, then you have the option of grabbing a quicker spot as a “single rider

It’s best to hit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter either at 8 am (if you have early park admission by staying at an on-site hotel) or after 4 pm when the park clears out a bit.

Check opening hours as sometimes the park may close an hour later. It closed an hour later than normal on the Friday night we visited.

Head straight to the back of the park while people linger at the front taking photos and stopping at some of the attractions.

If you stay on-site at certain hotels you get free  Universal Express Passes  to the most popular rides and attractions, which allows you to skip to the front of the line.

If not staying on-site, you can also buy a Universal Express Pass upgrade to your admission ticket when you arrive at the park.

There are meet and greets with various characters throughout the day – including Seuss characters, Marvel Super Heroes and Spider-Man.

You can find meet-and-greet times in our park maps. Park maps are available at the front of the park and in various retail and restaurant locations

If you are planning on eating at least 2 meals at the park, then consider purchasing a Meal Plan.

You’ll save some cash as long as you eat two meals. One of the things that really impressed me about the park (besides how clean it was) is how yummy and diverse the food is!

There’s something for every age and it’s gooo-ood food!

Get your Islands of Adventure tickets and Universal Orlando tickets through our affiliate partner, Undercover Tourist, who provide authentic attraction tickets at discounted prices:

• 2 day park-to-park ticket
• 3 day park-to-park-ticket
• 4 day -park-to-park ticket

You can find Universal Orlando Resort tickets through our partner aResTravel, who can get the best priced tickets for Universal. Check for current deals here!

Staying on-site at Universal Orlando Resort helps a lot.

It can get you into the park earlier (all resorts) and give you Universal Express passes (excluding Cabana Bay and Sapphire Falls).

We stayed at Cabana Bay Beach Resort which is the closest hotel to Volcano Bay.

If you stay at a hotel at the Universal Orlando Resort, you can come and go easily back and forth depending on the day and the weather (and the mood of your children).

Here are the current Universal Resort Hotels to choose from (in order of Budget to Luxury):

• Surfside Inn and Suites ( See prices and availability on Booking.com )
• Dockside Inn and Suites ( See prices and availability on Booking.com)
• Universal s Aventura Hotel ( See prices and availability on Booking.com)
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort ( See prices and availability on Booking.com)
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort ( See prices and availability on Booking.com  )
• Loews Royal Pacific Hotel ( See prices and availability on Booking.com  )
• Hard Rock Hotel ( See prices and availability on Booking.com  )
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel ( See prices and availability on Booking.com )

Final Thoughts on Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Universal’s Islands of Adventure was so much fun.

It was definitely one of my favorite parks besides Volcano Bay , which is Universal Resort’s own water park.

I definitely recommend this park if you like Harry Potter, superheros, and stuff like that.

I can’t wait to go back again!

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More helpful Orlando Travel Tips

• The Ultimate Universal Orlando Itinerary: How To Have An Epic Day!
• Best Rides At Universal’s Volcano Bay Orlando Water Park (From A 10-Year Old)
• 18 Ideas For What to Do in Orlando, Florida
• Your Guide to Family Fun at Universal Studios Orlando
• Best vacation homes to rent near Disney World
• 18 Universal Orlando Tips for a Great time (Harry Potter fans rejoice)

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We booked 2 trips to run together. Booking them intially was difficult as the agent couldn’t grasp what we were trying to do and kept quoting the wrong direction and got confused over airports. As a result we ended up flying from London as it was easiest for him to understand. Questions were left unanswered and at no time was it acknowldged that we were doing the 2 trips as one. The final hotel of the last trip was supposed to be the same as the first of this but in fact we had to move to a different hotel. Overall an good trip was let down by the UK support team. Michael Millar Cycling Vietnam

We booked 2 trips to run together. Booking them intialyy was difficult as the agent couldn’t grasp what we were trying to do and kept quoting the wrong direction and got confused over airports. As a result we ended up flying from London as it was easiest for him to understand. Questions were left unansweredand at no time was it acknowldged that we were doing the 2 trips as one. The final hotel of this trip was supposed to be the same as the first of the next but infact we had to move to a different hotel. Overall an excellent trip was let down by the UK support team. Michael Millar Cycle Indochina & Angkor

Fascinating trip using many forms of transport (overnight train is fun!). Diverse places and friendly people. Ann Webster Highlights of Vietnam

This was such a brilliant holiday – amazing scenery, fabulous food, fun activities, culture and history. We shared it with 5 other families, who all got on fabulously (adults and children) – there was always someone to chat to and share the experiences with. Having a tour guide really helps you get the most from the holiday – especially reserving tables for us all at some of the best eateries – and also takes the stress out of any aspect of the holiday. We saw so much of this beautiful country in such a short space of time, but still had time to relax and chill out! IAN BUCKLEY Chopsticks & Coconuts Family Holiday

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Our guide Nhung worked tirelessly to make sure we caught the right planes, trains and automobiles. We travelled from North to South and saw a marvellous variety of locations and highlights of Vietnamese history. The trip was well organised to alternate active days with quiet days. I would recommend this tour highly. Mick Gold Vietnam Adventure

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Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Family Adventure in the Southwest US

Having a family vacation in the Southwest can be an incredible experience for all ages. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and endless opportunities for adventure, it’s become a top destination for many families. But with endless options, planning a trip that will keep everyone entertained and engaged can be overwhelming.

Let’s dive into some tips and recommendations to help make your planning process more manageable. From money-saving tips to finding the best attractions, we’ve got you covered.

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The Southwest is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and fascinating history. Here are some main attractions and roadside stops to add to your family’s itinerary.

Saving for Your Trip

One of the biggest concerns for families when planning a vacation is staying within budget. Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that are still packed with adventure. Here are a few ways you can make your money stretch further:

• Set a realistic budget: Determine the amount of money you can spend on the trip and stick to it. Create a budget spreadsheet to keep track of your expenses and make adjustments as necessary. For example, if you plan on spending more on family activities, you may need to cut back on dining out.
• Look for deals and discounts: Download travel apps or sign up for email newsletters to stay updated on promotions and discounts. Also, look for local coupon books or websites for deals on attractions, restaurants, and family-friendly accommodations.
• Use cash stuffing: Consider using the cash stuffing method to allocate money to different envelopes for specific expenses to keep track of your expenses and stay within your means. You can make saving fun for the kids by creating no-spend days where the whole family can devise creative ways to have fun without spending, such as going on a picnic in the park or board game nights. 

Must-See Attractions and Roadside Stops

Whether planning a family vacation in the Southwest US, you can make it a road trip or fly to your destination. Either way, it’s important to set aside enough money for gas, food, and unexpected expenses. This will ensure a stress-free trip without worrying about finances.

National Parks

The Southwest is home to some of the most famous national parks in the United States, such as the Grand Canyon , Zion, Arches , and Bryce Canyon. These parks are perfect for families who love outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

A lesser-known but equally stunning park includes Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado , recognized for its well-preserved ancient Pueblo people cliff dwellings. 

You can also explore some of Oklahoma’s national parks , such as the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, famous for its lush greenery and dramatic sunsets, or the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, a site of remembrance. While in our hometown, be sure to see our recommendations for the best things to do in Oklahoma City .

Visiting these national parks provides opportunities for unforgettable exploration for kids and supports conservation efforts to protect our natural wonders for future generations.

Cultural Hotspots

The Southwest also has cultural landmarks, such as Indigenous American heritage sites and historic towns. Santa Fe, New Mexico, is noted for its vibrant art scene and Spanish colonial architecture, and this city is a must-see for families interested in culture and history. It’s also home to the famous Indian Market , a must-see for those interested in native artwork and culture.

Other cultural hotspots worth visiting include Sedona, Arizona, known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. You can also explore Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, an ancient community continuously inhabited for centuries in the U.S., offering a culturally rich experience not to be overlooked.

Roadside Stops

The Southwest is full of unique roadside stops that offer a break from long drives and an opportunity to explore something new. When planning your family vacation in the Southwest US, consider these places:

Visit Meteor Crater, Arizona , a massive crater formed by a meteor strike thousands of years ago. The kids will enjoy the Discovery Museum and 4D Theater, where they can experience immersive technology that transports them back in time to save the Earth from a collision. Plus, the lookout point offers breathtaking views of the crater that will leave the whole family in awe.

For vintage car lovers, stop by the Cadillac Ranch in Texas. This iconic art installation features ten vintage Cadillacs buried nose-down in a field. Tourists are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars, making it a fun and interactive stop for families.

Another one-of-a-kind road attraction is Salvation Mountain, California. This vibrant and colorful handmade mountain was created from locally sourced adobe clay and donated paint. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot and a great opportunity to learn about the artist behind the creation.

For those traveling along Route 66 , a stop at the corner in Winslow, Arizona is a must. This iconic town has become a popular tourist destination thanks to the Eagles’ hit song, “Take it Easy.” Visitors can experience a taste of old Route 66 charm while exploring Winslow.

For families looking to add adventure and extraordinary moments to their trip, the air balloon festivals in Texas are a hidden gem that should not be missed. The events feature hot air balloons of different shapes and sizes flying over beautiful landscapes. However, expect to plan your trip in advance and book your offsite or camping stay to avoid the crowds. 

Places to Stay

One of the biggest decisions when planning a family adventure is choosing where to stay. Let’s look at the different options available for shorter and long-term stays.

Short-Term Accommodations

Most families are allotted a limited time for their vacation, so finding a place that meets your needs is crucial. Here are the best options depending on your preferences:

• Hotels: Offer convenience and comfort, with amenities like pools, breakfasts, and on-site activities for families. They also assist in booking national park tours and activities such as sand surfing and hot air ballooning, making it convenient for families with limited time and a larger budget. See Booking.com for the best rates in the areas you wish to visit.
• \Airbnbs or VRBOs : Provides a more personal experience, with the option to rent an entire house or just a room. This can be a more affordable option for larger families who need extra privacy or want to utilize a kitchen to save on food expenses.
• Resorts : These offer a more luxurious experience, with all-inclusive packages that often include food and activities. They are ideal for families who are less adventurous and need relaxation and pampering but still want the heat and dessert views of the Southwest. 
• RVs: Renting an RV can offer the ultimate adventure if you plan a road trip around the Southwest deserts. You can travel at your own pace and have all the comforts of home on the road. 
• Camping : For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the great outdoors, camping is a popular option. There are many campsites throughout the Southwest deserts that offer scenic views and various amenities such as bathrooms and fire pits. See Campspot for great private camping and RV campground options
• Glamping : This newer trend combines the comforts of a hotel with the experience of camping. You can stay in luxury tents or cabins equipped with comfortable beds, electricity, and even private bathrooms. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Southwest deserts without sacrificing comfort.

With the rise of technology, many websites and apps are available to help you find the perfect Southwest accommodation for your family. So make sure to do your research and read reviews before booking.

Long-Term Accommodations

For families planning a longer stay, such as a summer vacation or sabbatical, it’s vital to consider cost-effective options. Here are some suggestions:

• House-sitting: Whether you use a reliable house-sitting service or have family and friends who live in the area, you can save on accommodation costs by staying in someone else’s residence. This is especially true in areas close to popular attractions like the Grand Canyon and Death Valley National Park, where lodging may be limited due to high demand. However, housesitting may entail looking after pets or plants, so make sure you are comfortable with the responsibilities.
• Extended-stay hotels: Many hotels offer discounts for longer stays, making them affordable options for families. Call to inquire about discounted rates for weekly or monthly bookings and confirm if they provide kitchen facilities to help you save money on dining out. If possible, choose the off-season, December through February, in the Southwest, to get the best deals. 
• Vacation rentals: Take advantage of the current trend in vacation rentals, where owners are willing to offer long-term discounts for family guests. You should book well in advance so you can lock in a good deal.

There are plenty of choices and benefits for folks who want to experience slow travel and immerse themselves in the local culture.  It can also lower stress levels associated with insufficient time to explore and provide more opportunities to build connections with the community.

Food and Local Cuisine

No trip is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From Tex-Mex to American Native dishes, there’s something for every palate. Introduce kids to regional specialties, such as green chili stew, Navajo fry bread, or a classic Sonoran hot dog, that will make their travel experience unforgettable. 

Additionally, visiting farmers’ markets and local food festivals is a great way to support the community and try authentic, fresh produce and dishes. Don’t forget to bring a taste of the South home by picking up some spices or sauces to recreate your favorite meals together. 

Travel Best Practices to Remember

Travel is not only about experiencing new places but also an opportunity to learn and grow as a family. Here are some strategies to optimize your vacation:

Safety First

The Southwest is home to extreme climates, so staying hydrated and protecting yourself from sun exposure is vital. Always carry sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water on hikes or outdoor activities. Find more hiking tips here . It is crucial to prepare for potential emergencies by acquainting your entire family with local emergency contact numbers and ensuring everyone has a readily available first aid kit .

Related: See our picks for the best ways to beat the heat! Woman’s Guide to What to Wear Hiking

Be Respectful of Local Culture and Traditions

The Southwest has a rich heritage and diverse cultures, so respect their traditions and customs. Familiarize your group with local customs before visiting cultural sites or participating in events.

Additionally, remind your children to be mindful of the environment when exploring nature reserves and parks. Leave no trace and follow designated paths to preserve the natural beauty. Instilling these values in children will foster a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the environment.

Plan Ahead and Be Flexible

While planning your family trip ahead is essential, you must also be open to changes and unexpected opportunities. Depending on the time of the year, some attractions may have limited access or different opening hours.

For example, a spring break family trip may require more advanced bookings and planning than a trip during off-peak season. During this time of the year, Joshua Tree National Park would be the ideal destination for a camping, hiking trip, or rock climbing trip. Or try cave exploration at Carlsbad Caverns where guided tours are available year round.

With these travel best practices in mind, you can make the most of your family trip to the Southwest and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!

• Find low fares with  airfarewatchdog , Skyscanner , and  WayAway.com .
• Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
• Book your plane ticket with   Expedia  or  Kayak
• Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
• Take the scenic route and rent an RV from  RVShare
• Get packed for an  epic road trip  and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com .
• From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with  Hotels.com  or  booking.com.
• For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot .
• Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from  Away and Eagle Creek .
• For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher .
• Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
• For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
• Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
• CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
• Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
• Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
• Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
• Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours .
• Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App .
• We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
• Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my  travel resources page  for more trusted partners.

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A travel guide to Wisconsin: Must-do activities and notable sights across the state

There is variety of stunning views across the state of wisconsin including lake geneva near milwaukee.

Wisconsin couple wins $1.1M from fantasy football

Jenny and Will Hsu of Wisconsin won big on fantasy football and plan to donate a large portion to local schools, charities and churches.

The state of Wisconsin , known for its booming dairy industry and mouth-watering cheese, offers many hidden gems, inviting travelers to uncover its treasures beyond the beaten path.

From the shores of Lake Geneva to the bluffs of Devil's Lake State Park, the state provides ample opportunities for stunning views.

Read on to learn about the state's best-kept secrets, must-do activities and notable sights.

WISCONSIN 20-YEAR AGED CHEDDAR TO SELL FOR $209 PER POUND

Places to stay in Wisconsin

Resorts and lodges

Guests at Wisconsin's multitude of resorts and lodges can wake up to the sights and sounds of nature in full bloom.

The American Club Resort Hotel, located in the historic town of Kohler, offers a legacy of sophistication dating back more than a century. Guests can immerse themselves in accommodations such as golf courses and lavish suites fit for royalty.

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva offers a beautiful landscape of rolling hills and pristine views. Guests can make fun memories at the resort's indoor and outdoor pools, golf courses and spa. In the winter, the resort doubles as one of the state's most popular ski destinations.

Wisconsin's cabin resorts blend outdoor adventure with modern amenities. (Grand Geneva Resort & Spa)

For a family-friendly getaway, look no further than the Wilderness Hotel and Golf Resort in Wisconsin Dells. The resort offers water parks and arcade games for the kids and scenic golf courses and relaxing spa sessions for adults.

Cabins and cottages

Wisconsin's cabin resorts offer a unique twist on family vacations, blending outdoor adventure with modern amenities.

Bayview Resort in St. Germain provides an escape for families with children, offering activities like fishing, kayaking and swimming in its sandy-bottomed lake. Each cabin, located close to the water, comes equipped with a canoe.

Garmisch USA Resort on Lake Namakagon in Cable surprises guests with its old-world charm and distinctive features, including the Blarney Castle, a miniature castle that accommodates up to 15 people.

Hawks View Cottages, Lodges & Suites in Fountain City is also a couple's getaway location. It offers views of the Mississippi River from cozy cottages perched on bluffs. Guests can also explore nearby attractions such as a vineyard during their stay.

The Cliffside Lodge in Ellison Bay, Door County, could be an ideal setting for couples seeking an excursion with friends. The lodge offers five bedrooms and three bathrooms and a view of the sunset each evening.

4,437-POUND WISCONSIN CHEESE BOARD SETS WORLD RECORD

Things to do in Wisconsin

Outdoor activities

When thinking about Wisconsin, dog sledding may not be the first thing to come to mind, but the state offers unique outdoor adventures.

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located in the state's north, is made up of 21 islands, has more than 50 miles of hiking, 18 campsites and 240 bird species that pass through the area.

In the wintertime, visitors can go dog sledding around the islands, according to Travel Wisconsin, the state's department of tourism.

Wisconsin's Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has more lighthouses than any other site in the National Park System with nine historic towers on six islands. (Travel Wisconsin)

The Black River State Forest in central Wisconsin offers 33 miles of trails for backpacking, hiking and biking through the pine and oak forest.

Hunters will find their paradise in the state's 5 million acres of public hunting land, which is home to wildlife such as bears, pheasants and deer.

For those seeking a challenge, Devil's Lake State Park provides thrilling rock-climbing opportunities along its unique quartzlite bluffs.

Thrill seekers can also explore the Tri-County Corridor Trail located at the eastern edge of the city of Superior. The 60-mile gravel trail is lined with dining establishments awaiting the arrival of ATV and snowmobile enthusiasts.

For those who would prefer leisurely outdoor activities, Wisconsin has no shortage.

Anglers can indulge in the timeless pastime of fishing, with more than 160 species of fish inhabiting the state's rivers and lakes. Wisconsin's largest inland lake, Lake Winnebago, offers the opportunity to catch massive northern pike and large-mouth bass.

You can also surf in Wisconsin. Nicknamed the "Malibu of the Midwest2," people have been coming to Sheboygan to experience freshwater surfing for decades.

Travelers in Wisconsin have been coming to the city of Sheboygan to experience freshwater surfing for decades. (Travel Wisconsin)

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Golf fans can also find opportunities to hone their craft, with more than 500 public golf courses across the state. Notable among them is the Brown Deer Golf Course, which is frequented by PGA champions.

Additionally, those with a desire for horseback riding adventures can saddle up to experience beautiful scenery east of the Rockies. Canyon Creek Riding Stables, located in Wisconsin Dells, offers an hour-long guided tour for the entire family.

Notable sights in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is filled with notable sights, including natural wonders, cultural landmarks and historical attractions.

The Wisconsin Dells, known as the water park capital of the world, features rock transformations along the Wisconsin River, as well as numerous water parks, theme parks and outdoor recreational activities.

Home to the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin's Lambeau Field is a must-visit for football fans. The stadium offers tours that showcase its rich history and provides behind-the-scenes access.

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Wisconsin's Lambeau Field, home to the Green Bay Packers, is the second-largest stadium in the NFL. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Wisconsin is also home to several buildings designed by the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The Frank Lloyd Wright Trail, located in the state's south, guides visitors to some of his most notable works, including Taliesin in Spring Green and the SC Johnson Campus in Racine.

The Harley-Davidson Museum, located in Milwaukee, celebrates the iconic motorcycle brand's history and culture through interactive exhibits, vintage motorcycles and memorabilia.

House on the Rock, an eccentric attraction in Spring Green, features a unique collection of antiques, art and oddities. The Infinity Room extends 218 feet out of the main structure of the house, suspended over the scenic valley below.

These are just a few of the notable locations you can explore in Wisconsin, with each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

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New Arizona mega-resort will rival Vegas and Southern California. What visitors can expect

Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this article gave incorrect information about the cost and capacity of the Vai Amphitheater.

The face of Kurt Cobain, the late lead singer of '90s alternative band Nirvana, stares at guests meandering through the beige-painted hallway of VAI Resort's Amphitheater Tower, bearing words of advice from a poster print on the wall: "Wanting to be someone else is a waste of who you are."

When guests unlock the door to their room in the music-centric hotel, they step inside what feels like their own personal Hard Rock Cafe, where the décor includes a guitar above the bed and photos of musicians performing.

By the end of this year, the view from the balcony should look less like a construction site and more like the stage of an outdoor concert venue.

If VAI Resort CEO and Arizona native Grant Fisher's vision comes to pass, people from Phoenix will choose VAI for a weekend getaway instead of Las Vegas.

What will VAI Resort in Glendale have?

VAI Resort, scheduled to open in late 2024 on Cardinals Way across from State Farm Stadium in Glendale, is a new kind of hotel for metro Phoenix. Its 11,000-capacity concert venue is designed to compete with Las Vegas for A-list artist residencies.

The resort, which the Glendale City Council approved in 2020 when it was called Crystal Lagoons, will include sandy beaches with 5 acres of temperature-controlled water.

It will be adjacent to Mattel Adventure Park , which will include a Barbie Beach House and Hot Wheels-themed roller coasters. This aims to make Phoenix competitive with Southern California for beach getaways and family theme park trips.

The resort will also have a spa and wellness center, luxury boutiques and 12 restaurants anchored by a steakhouse that offers stage views.

"VAI is undoubtedly breaking the mold with experiential hospitality, as every aspect is designed to treat guests to incredible entertainment, cuisine and luxury,” Fisher said in a statement.

What makes VAI different from other Phoenix-area hotels?

In addition to the concert venue, man-made beaches and Mattel Adventure Park, VAI will have a 50,000-square-foot, European-inspired "party island" called Konos Island and tethered hot-air balloon rides where passengers can view desert and mountain vistas from 400 feet above ground.

Fisher envisions VAI competing with Las Vegas for vacationers.

"The traditional hotel in Arizona is golf and spa oriented," Fisher, 28, told The Arizona Republic in December 2022. "Why do people leave Arizona? It's to go to these mega entertainment destinations. So, what I really wanted to do was bring that to the heart of Phoenix."

It's rare for a "mega entertainment destination" to be developed outside of Las Vegas, said Emmy Hise, senior director of hospitality analytics with CoStar Group, which owns the global hospitality data company STR.

She said bringing such a concept to reality requires a large amount of land and access to major highways and airports. The VAI location has these attributes.

"I think any time you add something new to a market, especially this type of hotel, people are attracted to it," Hise said. "The fact it’s a little further west from downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale, there’s more land to develop and it can make it a different type of destination."

The rarity of hotels like VAI in the U.S. is not lost on Kim Grace Sabow, president and CEO of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association. She said Arizona is "witnessing the emergence of a true game changer" for entertainment and luxury hospitality statewide.

"VAI Resort transcends the boundaries of traditional hotels, offering a complete and unparalleled resort destination that sets it apart from the rest," she said.

The only parallels to VAI Resort outside of Las Vegas that Hise could think of were the Gaylord Hotels, large convention-focused resorts with features like water parks, riverboat rides and animal encounters.

Gaylord's flagship hotel, the 2,888-room Gaylord Opryland in Nashville, Tennessee, offers live music. Kelly Clarkson, Sheryl Crow and Paramore performed there, and it hosted Christmas residencies from country artists like Larry Gatlin and the Oak Ridge Boys, according to Setlist.fm .

How big is the VAI Resort?

VAI is on 60 acres south of State Farm Stadium and will have 1,100 rooms and suites across four towers:

• Amphitheater Tower: 318 rooms.
• Rhythm Tower: 311 rooms.
• Cadence Tower: 299 rooms.
• VAI Villas: 155 rooms.

The resort originally planned 630 rooms when it was known as Crystal Lagoons.

It will be the largest hotel in Arizona, surpassing the 1,003-room Sheraton Phoenix Downtown.

It also will trounce the sizes of the West Valley's and Westgate Entertainment District's top hotels, with more than triple their capacity, Hise said.

The West Valley's largest hotel is the 343-room Bluegreen Vacations Cibola Vista Resort and Spa near Lake Pleasant, about 20 miles northwest of VAI Resort. It will have 23 more rooms than the largest hotel at Westgate, the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa.

How much will it cost to stay at VAI Resort?

Room rates will range from $500 to $900 per night, Fisher said. He didn't specify whether VAI Resort would charge a resort fee.

Reinventing Valley tourism

If Fisher's ambitions to remake Arizona's lodging landscape sound familiar, it's because others have shared them.

They can be traced as far back as the 1913 debut of the San Marcos Hotel in Chandler. The city's founder and namesake, Dr. Alexander J. Chandler, envisioned the hotel as a grand golf resort never before seen in Arizona that could compete with Pasadena, California, for wealthy tourists seeking winter escapes.

Fisher cites a more modern example: casino magnate Steve Wynn's expansion of the Las Vegas Strip in the 1990s.

The Strip had been known for casino and entertainment resorts since the 1940s, when gangster Bugsy Siegel helped open the Flamingo resort. That same decade, the flamboyant entertainer Liberace pioneered the concert residency at another Strip destination, Hotel Last Frontier.

The mega-resorts came after Wynn opened the Mirage in 1989, leading to a major expansion of the Strip where massive resorts designed for several thousand guests were built in the 1990s and 2000s.

The vast majority of the nation's hotels with the most rooms are in Las Vegas and were built during this boom. The largest, the Italian-inspired Venetian Resort, opened in 1999. It has more than 7,000 rooms between the original Venetian hotel and its sister property, Palazzo, which debuted in 2007.

In 1989, the Mirage's opening year, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority recorded 18.1 million tourists in the city. By the end of the 1990s, that number nearly doubled to 33.8 million visitors.

How VAI will compete with Las Vegas for music fans

One of the reasons for that growth is what attracted Fisher to the VAI Resort project: music residencies.

Las Vegas, during its 1990s expansion, had a reputation for residencies dominated by washed-up artists. But Canadian superstar Celine Dion's A New Day (2003-07) and Celine (2011-19) residencies at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace redefined the format. Her residencies collectively sold more than 4.5 million tickets and grossed more than $681 million, making it Vegas' biggest-selling music residency, according to Billboard .

Countless pop, rock, R&B and country superstars followed Dion's lead. Elton John's two Caesars Palace residencies were almost as successful as Dion's. Britney Spears' 2013-17 residency at Planet Hollywood made $138 million. Shania Twain ended a long hiatus from music in 2012 with a Caesars Palace residency. Usher's residency at Park MGM went viral in part for its celebrity serenades ; when the 2024 Super Bowl came to Vegas, he headlined the halftime show .

In developing the $50 million, 11,000-seat VAI Amphitheater, Fisher understands he has little competition among Arizona hotels. Perhaps the closest similar hotel would be Talking Stick Resort in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. But its concert ballroom seats 1,600, less than a quarter of what VAI expects to hold.

He instead sees VAI rivaling venues like Arizona Financial Theatre, the 5,000-seat downtown Phoenix theater where big names like Peso Pluma and Olivia Rodrigo have played to sold-out crowds.

Fisher also sees VAI competing with Vegas hotels where residencies take place. VAI Amphitheater would surpass the capacity of at least four of the biggest residency venues in Vegas:

• Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, which has hosted Miranda Lambert and Keith Urban, lists a capacity of 7,000.
• Dolby Live at Park MGM, which has hosted Usher, Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, has a capacity of 5,200.
• Resorts World Theatre, which has hosted Carrie Underwood, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, holds 5,000 people.
• The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, which has hosted Adele, Garth Brooks, Rod Stewart and Jerry Seinfeld, lists a capacity of “4,300+ seats” on its website.

How VAI will compete with Southern California for families

Hise said the current lodging market in the West Valley leans heavily on family-oriented extended stay brands like Hilton's Hampton Inn and Home2 Suites.

She thinks VAI Resort and Mattel Adventure Park, Arizona's first themed indoor/outdoor amusement park, will elevate that landscape.

"I think they're trying, in my opinion, to make it a family-friendly destination that’s easier for people to stay at," Hise said. "Phoenix has a lot of luxury. But (Glendale) is geared toward families with the cluster of resorts (and) the Mattel amusement park. I think it’s aiming for a family-friendly vacation."

When Mattel Adventure Park opens, Glendale will enter a crowded theme-park landscape.

In the West, Southern California dominates. The latest attendance report from Themed Entertainments Association and AECOM found that six of the top 20 most visited theme parks in North America in 2022 are in Southern California:

• No. 2: Disneyland Park in Anaheim, 16.9 million visitors.
• No. 8: Disney's California Adventure Park in Anaheim, 9 million visitors.
• No. 9: Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City, 8.4 million visitors.
• No. 11: Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, 3.9 million visitors.
• No. 14: SeaWorld San Diego, 3.5 million visitors.
• No. 16: Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, 2.9 million visitors.

At 9 acres, Mattel Adventure Park would be a fraction of the size of the competing parks. Disney's California Adventure, the smallest Western theme park on the attendance list, is 72 acres.

But the VAI team is betting the Mattel park can prove as successful as Disney's and Universal's parks. Last summer offered a sign: "Barbie" was the highest-grossing movie of 2023 .

And roller coaster fans will be drawn by the Hot Wheels Bone Shaker: the Ultimate Ride coaster, which climbs 84 feet and drops down a double helix track, and the Hot Wheels Twin Mill Racer, which will feature a double loop and two corkscrews.

Can VAI Resort live up to its ambitions?

Despite some controversies in the VAI development saga, such as environmental concerns regarding its plans to use 50 million gallons of water for its swimming lagoon , and activist and resident opposition to VAI receiving tax incentives , experts see its anticipated arrival as a positive.

Hise expects VAI will be a hit with Arizona staycationers and out-of-state travelers. As for whether it will fulfill Fisher's vision of remaking Arizona into something on the scale of Las Vegas or Disney's theme parks, Hise thinks it depends on something outside VAI's control.

That's whether Phoenix can attract more transatlantic and transpacific flights.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has two routes between Phoenix and Europe with three airlines. American Airlines and British Airways each fly a Phoenix-London route, while Condor Airlines flies a seasonal route to Frankfurt, Germany. In May, Sky Harbor will get a third route when Air France introduces nonstop service to Paris .

Unlike VAI's competing destinations, the Phoenix airport has no nonstop flights to Asia. Las Vegas has one to Seoul, South Korea. San Diego has one to Tokyo. Los Angeles counts 10 nonstop routes to Asia.

These routes can be crucial in driving the success of a destination. Hise cited the Las Vegas-Seoul route for attracting international tourists to Las Vegas' K-Pop music festival We Bridge in April 2023. A post from the festival organizers on X, formerly Twitter, said more than 15,000 people attended.

While not all of the traffic can be attributed to We Bridge, Korean Airlines' Las Vegas-Seoul route drew 8,516 arriving and departing passengers in April 2023, according to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.

Phoenix airport officials are optimistic that Sky Harbor will eventually secure a route to Asia, citing the charter flights between Phoenix and Taipei, Taiwan, that transported Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. workers for training; the company is building a 1,100-acre plant in north Phoenix .

Right now, Fisher is focused on bringing his vision of a transformative entertainment resort to reality, a place that would stand as a point of pride for a city he's called home since he was 3 years old.

Is that staycation deal a bargain? Check the resort fee before you book

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at   [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:   @salerno_phx .

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Electrostal History and Art Museum

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