Bar Harbor, Maine

The East Coast is an autumnal classic for leaf-peepers and Maine offers the best of the best. While there is plenty to do in the town itself, from museums to ghost tours, it’s the adjacent Acadia National Park where the season truly shines. Hike, drive, or bike the meandering paths and roads criss-crossing the park or take a kayak out on Jordan Pond to take in the foliage reflected on the water. 

Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Bar Harbor

The Holiday Inn Bar Harbor is pet-friendly, perfect for hikers looking to have an adventure with their furry friend on one of Acadia’s many pet-friendly hiking trails. The cozy atmosphere of La Bella Vita, the hotel’s in-house Italian eatery and wine bar, will warm you right up after a day of exploration as you enjoy stunning views of Frenchman’s Bay. 

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Napa, California

Did you know that grape vines change color too? Wine country in autumn is a sight to see, when not only the leaves on the trees but also the sprawling vineyards become drenched in oranges and golds. Take a Napa Valley wine tour to enjoy the foliage (drink in hand), or take to the skies in a hot air balloon to see the seasonal colors from a new perspective.

Where to Stay: Hotel Napa Valley

This Victorian-era boutique hotel exudes the quintessential vibes you want from a foliage excursion. Indulge in a complimentary breakfast served in the property’s wine cellar each morning and then hop in the car to head to one of several scenic wineries less than 20 minutes from the property.

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Duluth, Minnesota

Experience lakeside foliage in Duluth, Minnesota, a city situated on the coast of Lake Superior. With 129 city parks and over 300 cumulative miles of trails for everything from hiking and biking to horseback riding and cross-country skiing, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature. Visit Duluth suggests setting aside time to go birding, as migratory species can be seen in spades just off Skyline Parkway during the fall season.

Where to Stay: Lift Bridge Lodge

Located just off Lake Superior, this property features a number of beautiful outdoor spaces, private balconies, and lakeview rooms, ensuring that you’ll have plenty of opportunity to enjoy the autumn scenery even after returning to your hotel. 

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New York City, New York

Generations of singers have been crooning about autumn in New York and for good reason. Every year, the notoriously fast-paced city comes alive with fall color. Grab a latte and stroll around Central Park to enjoy the crisp air and changing leaves. Make a day trip out to one of the city’s many botanical gardens, located anywhere from Staten Island to the Bronx to Brooklyn.

Where to Stay: The Park West Hotel

Located on the edge of Central Park, a room at the Park West Hotel will have you waking up to a vibrant show of colors just outside your window. It’s conveniently located on the Upper West Side just a short drive to many famous attractions, including the Museum of Modern Art and the iconic Rockefeller Center.

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Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville provides access to some spectacular foliage spreads in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the town is also an attractive regional destination in itself. Go shopping and grab a meal at the Downtown Mall to enjoy some historic architecture coupled with the fall colors. A drive down the Blueridge Parkway or a day trip to Shenandoah National Park will get you out of the city and into the heart of some of the best foliage in the state. 

Where to Stay: The Draftsman Charlottesville

The Draftsman is located right in downtown Charlottesville, just five minutes from the Downtown Mall. They offer room types ranging from Premiere Queens to Luxury Suites and all are pet-friendly. Make sure to book a mountain view room to watch the fall colors break over the nearby Blueridge Mountains.

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Seattle, Washington

If you’re looking to elevate your seasonal beverage tastes beyond pumpkin spice, this is the city for you. Known for its coffee culture, you can’t go wrong ducking into any of the cafes that dot the city for an autumn pick-me-up while taking in the sites. The Washington Park Arboretum offers visitors the full color palette of the season with a wide range of deciduous trees, from dogwoods to Japanese Maples to towering oaks. Just two hours outside the city you’ll find a riot of fall color at Mount Rainier National Park, where you can leaf peep on horseback on a guided trail ride with Echo River Ranch.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sorrento

Hotel Sorrento is located in the heart of the city with easy access to its most famous attractions and, in line with the often spooky spirit of the season, its own resident ghost. But don’t worry— while most haunted hotels are chilling, you’ll find that this one is pretty chill. Alice Toklas, the inventor of the modern day “special” brownie, is said to roam the fourth floor.

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Aspen, Colorado

Aspen’s namesake trees put on quite a different show than those in the Northeast and Midwest, washing the town in hues of yellow and gold. The area’s many hiking trails become windows to a new world, surrounding visitors on all sides with towering white trunks and a golden canopy. Don’t miss a photo op with the Maroon Bells—some of the most photographed mountains in the United States—while they’re decked out in their autumn leaves.

Where to Stay: The Little Nell

The Little Nell is a luxury ski resort nestled in the mountains of Aspen.Guests take advantage of the stunning foliage by joining one of many seasonal activities offered, from off-roading to fly-fishing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did the term leaf peeping start?
A: “Leaf peeping” refers to tourists, also called leaf peepers, who travel to destinations in search of beautiful fall foliage. A surprisingly divisive term, many people think “leaf peeping” is a product of the social media era, but the phrase can be found in print as early as 1966 in a Vermont newspaper.

Q: When should I go leaf peeping?
A: Leaves tend to change earlier in the season the further north and higher above sea level you travel. Peak foliage times can vary even within a single state, especially with inland versus coastal destinations. Many states keep up-to-date foliage maps (predictive maps that show when foliage should be at its peak in different areas), that you can check when planning your fall vacation.

Q: What major US city is the best to see fall foliage?
A: There is no one best US city to see fall foliage. The best city for leaf peeping depends on the timing of your trip, the type of foliage you’d like to see, and the activities you enjoy. If you’re a city-explorer, plan a trip for mid-October to Manhattan. If you’re all about the outdoors, Aspen in September will be a good fit. 

Q: What are the different kinds of foliage?
A: Only deciduous trees—your classic oaks and maples, etc.—change color and lose their leaves in the autumn. Coniferous trees—spruce, pine, and other needle-leaved trees—will remain, as their common name implies, evergreen. 

Q: How to pronounce foliage?
A: According to Webster’s dictionary: fō-lē-ij (listen below)

Q: Is there still foliage in November?
A: Many places in the United States are past peak by the time November comes around, but you can still catch fall colors in the southernmost areas of the country.

Ed Perkins contributed to this article.

The post The 7 Best U.S. Cities and Towns to See Fall Foliage appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Go wandering through the lush gardens of Harry P. Leu Gardens or picnic by the waters of Lake Eola—this article is your one-stop guide to experiencing the best of Orlando.

Explore Walt Disney World’s Theme Parks

When people hear Orlando, they think of immersive theme parks—notably Walt Disney World, and for good reason. Disney World offers all you need for a magical vacation; theme parks, dozens of hotels, dining establishments, golf courses, water parks, shopping centers, and more. There are four theme parks here, the Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT. You’ll find iconic sights and experiences, like Cinderella Castle and Pandora—The World of Avatar. 

There’s a lot to do at Walt Disney World, so consider visiting this expansive property over several days. If you’re traveling with kids in the summer, avoid spending all day in the park, or you’ll end up dealing with hot and cranky children. Instead, do some morning rides and return in the evenings to catch Magic Kingdom’s fireworks and more Disney fun.

Nearby Recommended Hotel:  Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a nature-inspired resort in Walt Disney World. There are kid-friendly activities for your little ones and a free shuttle service to Disney’s theme parks.

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Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The main draw of Universal Orlando’s theme parks is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This attraction offers an immersive and fun experience where you can escape from Gringotts or get chosen by a wand at Ollivanders wand shop. To see the complete recreation of Harry Potter’s world, board the Hogwarts Express to travel between Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios, Florida.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has five roller coaster rides, so you can pick and choose or try them all. Thrillseekers will love Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Meanwhile, Flight of the Hippogriff is perfect for kids. Crowds are inescapable here, but to reduce your wait times, visit on weekdays or pay an extra fee for an express pass that lets you skip lines.  

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is part of the Universal Orlando Resort. A stay here offers exclusive theme park privileges like unlimited ride access, which lets you skip regular lines, and free water taxi shuttles between Universal’s parks. 

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Learn About Space Travel at the Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center is integral to Central Florida’s culture and a must-visit for space enthusiasts and families. This iconic attraction also serves as NASA’s primary launch facility for spaceflight. KSC’s Visitor Complex showcases interactive exhibits, simulators, and authentic pieces of spacecraft. 

Although this attraction is about an hour away from Orlando, it’s worth the drive down as you can explore rocket gardens, watch space-themed IMAX movies, and even meet a real astronaut. It’s also a great way to escape crowded theme parks while offering fun for kids and adults. 

Real Florida Adventures’ Kennedy Space Center tour offers round-trip transportation from Orlando if you won’t be driving. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center’s rooftop bar is perfect for watching NASA’s rocket launches. The hotel features large modern rooms with river views and celestial decor.

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Snorkel with Stingrays at Discovery Cove

Seaworld’s Discovery Cove offers a unique experience unlike any other Orlando amusement park. It’s a family-friendly all-inclusive day resort where you can float in the water, snorkel with fish and rays, and feed exotic birds. Discovery Cove limits guest admissions per day, so it’s easier to get up close and personal with animals.

When you’re not swimming, lounge alongside one of the park’s pristine beaches or check out the birds in the Explorer’s Aviary. Add-on packages offer extra-special experiences like swimming with dolphins. The lush landscaping and freshwater pools make Discovery Cove a great place to relax and unwind.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Hilton Grand Vacations Club SeaWorld Orlando is an 8-minute walk from Discovery Cove and offers free shuttle service to all Seaworld attractions. This resort has multiple pools, a kids’ splash pad, and jogging trails to make the most of the beautiful scenery.

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Entertain Your Kids at Orlando Science Center

Spending a rainy day in Orlando? A trip to the Orlando Science Center is a great way to keep your kids dry and entertained. One of the city’s most popular family attractions, this center houses four floors of hands-on exhibits designed to educate and inspire young minds. 

You’ll find giant skeletons of dinosaurs and several interactive zones for kids. There’s also a nature area where your little ones can meet reptiles, critters, and Lucky the Turtle. Science is fun, but it can work up an appetite. The onsite 4Roots cafe serves healthy, affordable meals made with locally-grown produce.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Downtown is in the hip North Orange area of Orlando, close to Orlando Science Center, antique stores, and many dining options. Suites have a laid-back design, and guests will enjoy complimentary breakfast and free parking. 

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Stroll the Beautiful Lake Eola Park

A picturesque slice of nature, Lake Eola Park is a peaceful escape from an otherwise buzzing city. Stroll the park’s paths or enjoy a relaxing picnic by the water’s edge. This green space offers what you need to recharge after a busy day. Located downtown, Lake Eola provides stunning views of Orlando’s skyline.

You can rent swan boats to float on the gentle waters and meet locals here. Every night a massive water fountain on the lake is lit up for a colorful show. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Downtown is a stylish hotel perfect for couples. Some suites offer gorgeous lake views and whirlpool tubs.

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Explore the Florida Everglades With an Airboat Tour

The Florida Everglades is a massive network of subtropical wetlands and forests spanning 1.5 million acres across central and south Florida. This wild, untouched side of the Sunshine State is a unique Orlando attraction. You can watch alligators, river otters, and other wild animals in their natural habitat. 

The best way to experience the Everglades is via airboat tours that access the most remote areas. Zip through swamps on an airboat, taking in the scenic views and spotting wildlife along the way. Asides the stunning landscape, you’ll love the thrill of high-speed rides that can reach 45 miles per hour. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Monte Carlo Inn is an affordable, no-frills hotel about 30 minutes from Lake Toho, where you can join Airboat tours. It is perfect for a 1-2 day stay during your Everglades tour in Kissimmee.

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Tubing at Kelly Park in Rock Springs

Kelly Park is a local’s favorite, where you’ll find one of Florida’s most beautiful springs. Rock Springs’ remarkably clear waters and 68-degree spring temperature creates a refreshing environment year-round. Often described as Orlando’s natural lazy river, people flock to Kelly Park for the relaxing 20-minute tube ride. 

Kelly Park also has one of the best campsites in the area if you love spending time outdoors. There are strict admission limits to avoid overcrowding, and the park fills up very fast, especially on weekends. Try to get there early to claim one of the 280 entry tickets.

Kayaking is available at Kelly Park’s Camp Joy. For the best experience, rent a glass-bottomed vessel for stunning sights as friendly fish swim beneath and around you.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-Maitland is a 28-minute drive to Kelly Park. Cozy rooms come with free WiFi and breakfast. There’s also an Applebee’s restaurant onsite.

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Spend an Afternoon at ICON Park

ICON Park is an entertainment complex at the heart of Orlando’s International Drive. The main attraction here is The Wheel, a 400 feet observation wheel that gives you a bird’s eye view of Orlando. Each passenger capsule is air-conditioned, so the 18-minute rotation is all the more enjoyable.

Other fun attractions at ICON Park include;

• Madame Tussauds — a museum with over 100 lifelike wax figures of some of the world’s most notable faces.
• SEA LIFE Orlando — An aquarium with family-friendly exhibits. SEA LIFE Orlando is home to over 5,000 sea creatures, including seahorses, sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, and more. You’ll love walking through the 360-degree ocean tunnel, where you can see sharks swimming all around you.
• Museum of Illusions — A mind-bending attraction with over 50 illusions within its walls. Mirror mazes and upside-down rooms are sure to leave you in disbelief.

ICON Park is also home to trendy restaurants, bars, and boutique shops, so you’ll have lots to do on an afternoon trip here.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Sonesta ES Suites Orlando – International Drive is a welcoming, pet-friendly hotel on I-Drive. There’s an onsite gym, and you’ll be within walking distance of all the shops and entertainment on I-Drive.

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Discover Orlando’s Water Parks

A summer trip to Orlando is hardly complete without a visit to one of the many water parks in the city. Water parks are great for families as they have play areas to entertain kids all day. Your kids will love the splash zones, water slides, and lazy rivers. There are refreshing water activities for adults too.

You’ll be spoiled for choice as the major theme parks in Orlando all have water parks. Then there are several independent or hotel-owned aqua parks. 

The best water parks in Orlando are:

• Aquatica Orlando
• Disney’s Blizzard Beach (temporarily closed)
• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
• Universal’s Volcano Bay
• Nona Adventure Park
• CoCo Key Water Resort

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Aloft Orlando International Drive is a chic hotel 5 minutes from Aquatica Orlando. This hip hotel offers trendy rooms with colorful accents, a well-equipped gym, and a vibrant lobby bar to unwind. 

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Enjoy Nature at Harry P. Leu Gardens

Nature enthusiasts will love wandering through 50 acres of lush greenery at Harry P. Leu Gardens. If you want a break from Orlando’s amusement parks, this property offers a change of pace, letting you slow down and marvel at nature’s splendor. 

You’ll find everything here: rose gardens, bamboo forests, butterfly gardens, and a tropical rainforest. Walk on pathways shaded by 200-year-old oaks and camellias or by the lakes as you take in the scents of hundreds of native and exotic plants. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown is a serene hotel in downtown Orlando. Contemporary-styled rooms feature desks with ergonomic chairs, and the Bistro serves delicious food and drinks.

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Go Shopping at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is Walt Disney World Resort’s shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. The atmosphere here is Disney-like, so if you want to experience the magic of Disney on a budget, this is a must-visit. There’s lots of free entertainment, young kids can build at The LEGO store, and the whole family will enjoy bowling at Splitsville. Indulge in an all-you-can-eat buffet at House of Blues, or sit to an interactive dinner at one of the several themed restaurants. 

Disney Springs is perfect for a date if you visit Orlando as a couple. Go on a thrilling Amphicar tour, then find each other gifts at one of the several stores. There are over 150 bars and celebrity chef-owned restaurants to choose from for dinner. In the evenings, when everywhere lights up and live entertainment starts, lock hands and stroll the boardwalk for the perfect end to a romantic evening.

Nearby Recommended Hotel:Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas, Lake Buena Vista/Orlando, is close to Disney Springs and other Orlando attractions. It has several onsite amenities, including 7 outdoor swimming pools to beat the heat.

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The post The 12 Best Things to Do in Orlando, Florida appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Whether you’re looking to taste some authentic, buttery croissants, see some magnificent sculptures and paintings, relax in the well-maintained gardens, or tour the sights, this city simply has it all. From famous galleries and museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay to the beautiful buildings of Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe ー, Paris stands out as an undeniably one-of-a-kind place. 

Lock Eyes with the Mona Lisa at The Louvre

The famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci is currently housed in the Louvre Museum. This popular work of art draws large crowds, so if you want an unobstructed look at this portrait, a great option could be to book tickets for a last-entry tour that allows you to skip the line. 

If you’re hoping to make the most of your visit to the Louvre, there are countless other priceless works of art and artifacts that are worth seeing. The museum boasts an impressive collection consisting of the famous Venus de Milo sculpture, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa paintings, among many others. 

Hotel recommendation:

 Hôtel Moliere: Spas, massages, facials, and saunas are all on offer at this high-end, 4-star hotel option. The boutique hotel has an elegant design, as well as spacious rooms. 

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Be Dazzled by the Eiffel Tower

Gustave Eiffel’s world-famous Eiffel Tower has essentially become synonymous with the city of Paris and is one of the most visited monuments in the world. However, seeing its photo on a postcard pales compared to witnessing its unique design in real life. You can climb the metal masterpiece from 9 AM until midnight, either going up to the second floor or straight to the top, using elevators or stairs. The prices vary depending on how far you wish to go up, how you want to go up, and your age. 

You can also visit one of the restaurants and bars on the different levels of the tower. Aside from the buffets found on the first two floors and the esplanade, there are establishments that offer incredible food, delicious drinks, and spectacular views, including Madame Brasserie by Thierry Marx, The Jules Vernes by Frédéric Anton (one MICHELIN star), and The Champagne Bar. 

Under the moonlight, the tower is illuminated by twinkling lights creating a magical, luminous display for onlookers. The 20,000 bulbs sparkle for five minutes every hour from dusk to 11:45 PM, giving you plenty of time and opportunities to enjoy the light show.

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Eiffel Kennedy: Staying near the Eiffel Tower often means that hotel prices will be much higher. However, this charming 3-star hotel will give you a comfortable, central stay without breaking the bank.  

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Admire Notre Dame

The famous cathedral has been at the center of multiple historical events, including the coronation of Napoleon as Emperor, and holds a special place in the heart of many Parisians. Tragically, whilst restoration work was being done in April 2019, the roof caught fire, causing significant damage to this beloved building. Nevertheless, most of the structure has stayed intact, and plans are to reopen it fully to the public in December 2024. 

It is still worth a visit, even if you plan to visit Paris before the official reopening date. Whilst the towers and treasuries are currently inaccessible to visitors, you can access the cathedral’s parvis and archaeological crypt. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Europe Saint Severin Paris: This 3-star hotel has rustic decor, a homely feel, and a lower price point than many hotels in the same area. It could also hardly be any closer to Notre Dame, making it a great location for those wanting to stay nearby.

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Stroll the Luxembourg Gardens

Walking through the Luxembourg Gardens provides a little bit of relief from the hustle and bustle of the city, giving you a chance to relax. Its charm draws both locals and tourists thanks to its calming atmosphere, exquisite flower beds, and manicured lawns. It is the perfect place to stretch your legs, enjoy family time or take someone on a romantic date. 

The gardens themselves are overlooked by the regal Luxembourg Palace and were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence, which can be seen from the well-maintained areas and outdoor sculptures dotted around. There are also greenhouses, areas to play pétanque (a French sport similar to boules), and beehives. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Le Six: This 4-star hotel has a more modern vibe to it and some stellar reviews from other visitors. You can enjoy getting pampered in the spa, relaxing in the steam room, and getting a drink at the swanky bar. 

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Take a Seine River Boat Tour

While walking along the river is a wonderful way to soak up the sights and enjoy a relaxing stroll, booking a riverboat tour makes a trip to Paris even more enchanting. There are countless companies offering their services, but most will take you past the main landmarks of the city and give you scenic views, which you can enjoy in style. Some also offer meals and champagne, adding extra glamorous detail to your day. 

Booking a trip during the day allows you to see everything in broad daylight, but the city truly comes alive at night.  For the most dreamy experience, you can book a dinner cruise where you can treat your tastebuds to some delicious dishes while being serenaded by violinists and pianists.

Hotel recommendation:

Juliana Hotel Paris: Another 5-star option with unique decor that has been meticulously designed. It offers a spa, a fitness center, and individually decorated rooms, so no two are the same!

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Enjoy the Artwork at the Musée d’Orsay

The Louvre may be the more famous museum to visit, but the Musée d’Orsay should be just as high up on your bucket list! The building itself was converted from a Beaux-Arts style railway station, creating an interior that looks so original. However, the museum is more than just that, given that it houses a huge amount of masterpieces from mainly French artists and is renowned for having a rich collection of Impressionist art. It houses twenty-four of Van Gogh’s paintings (including the stunning Starry Night), eighty-six paintings by Monet, and fifty-six pieces by Cézanne. 

The museum is open every day, apart from Mondays, and offers a variety of guided tours, workshops, and changing exhibitions. If you’re lucky enough, you may even be able to attend a concert during the evening or at lunchtime in this house of culture. Make sure to check the website and book well in advance in order to avoid disappointment. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel Montalembert: This 5-star option is located only an 8-minute walk away from the Musée d’Orsay. It offers spa services, babysitting for an extra charg, and ornately-decorated surroundings.

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Explore Montmartre

This bohemian area of Paris has historically captivated artists and creatives, creating an atmosphere that still inspires many to this day. The place is simply gorgeous, with its winding streets and cobbled surfaces, it feels distinctly like a quaint village. Here you can visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica on top of the Montmartre hill, either by walking up 197 steps or, if your legs are tired from all of the exploring, you can take the funicular. 

This isn’t the only thing that the village has to offer, though.  There is the Place du Tertre, where you can look at the wonderful paintings and drawings of local artists. Also, the Moulin Rouge is located here, along with the “I Love You” Wall (Le Mur des Je t’aime). This piece of art has “I love you” written all over jet-black rock in over 250 languages.

Hotel recommendation:  

Mercure Paris Montmartre Sacré Coeur: A reasonably-priced, 4-star hotel that is close to the Moulin Rouge, the metro, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. There is also a garden, fitness space, and terrace. 

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Experience the Atmosphere of The Latin Quarter

This area is one of the most ancient in the city, meaning that it is full of history and culture. The Pantheon can be found in The Latin Quarter, where honored men and women important to France are interred or commemorated, including the writers Victor Hugo and Emile Zola. 

Paris’ Natural History Museum is also located in this quarter, along with the attaching Jardin des Plantes, which is a botanical garden that is free to visit. The only thing you may have to pay for is entry to the zoo, where you can meet fascinating exotic animals. 

Aside from the endless exciting places to see, the atmosphere is second to none. There is a thriving jazz scene in this district, so you can’t miss out on going to one of the many jazz or cabaret clubs found here. 

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel d’Aubusson: Originally, this hotel was a 17th-century mansion and is the epitome of luxury. This 4-star hotel’s central location places you around many places of interest and welcomes you back with superb interior design and fantastic service after a long day of sightseeing.

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Do Retail Therapy at the Galeries Lafayette

This shopping mall is one of the most recognizable in the city thanks to its distinctively lavish interior design in the style of Art Nouveau. From an enormous glass dome to gilded features to illuminating lights, it is truly a breathtaking sight! If you’re a luxury fanatic, there are plenty of places to indulge and treat yourself to a designer souvenir. You can buy items from Dior, Chloé, Hermès, Chanel, Céline, and many more French and international fashion brands.

Once you’re feeling exhausted from carrying around all those shopping bags, there are lots of places to sit, enjoy a coffee or order a delicious meal. 

Hotel recommendation:  

Hôtel Excelsior Opéra: A 3-star hotel with a lot of character. All of the rooms are designed in a simple, contemporary style, with the comfort of their guests in mind. They also all have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. 

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Visit the Arc De Triomphe

This commemorative monument dedicated to the victories of Napoleon’s army is globally recognized for its distinctive arch and elaborate sculptures and engravings. Those wishing to climb to the top will get a staggering view of one of the most beautiful streets in Paris: the Champs-Élysées, as well as the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre. The top is also accessible by elevator, making it an activity everyone can enjoy. Remember to book tickets in advance so that you can skip the queue and keep your itinerary for the rest of the day on track!

Hotel recommendation:

Hotel EKTA: A lovely 4-star hotel with 70s-inspired decor, only a stone’s throw away from the Arc de Triomphe. You’ll love the funky fabrics and electric artwork that the hotel has chosen.

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The post The 10 Best Things to Do in Paris, France appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is one of the best places to go in New Zealand for fishing, sailing, and other watersports. The Bay of Islands is about three hours by car from Auckland. This gorgeous region is made up of 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula.

What’s there to do in the Bay of Islands? Get on or in the water! Try scuba diving with Paihia Dive‘s intro-to-diving course. You will be ferried far out into the bay to explore a whole new underwater world.

Or get up close and personal with the marine life in the Bay of Islands on a Fullers GreatSights Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise. On a good day, you’ll see both whales and dolphins on this cruise.

The cruise will take you to one of the Bay of Islands’ most famous sights, the Hole in the Rock. You can sail through this unique opening in a rock formation when the tide is right.

Where to stay: Spend a night at the historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel, which has the distinction of holding the oldest pub license in New Zealand and is located on a peninsula that sticks straight out into the middle of the bay.

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Milford Sound, New Zealand

Rudyard Kipling called Milford Sound the “eighth wonder of the world,” and if you visit this region of New Zealand, you’ll see why. Formed by glaciers during the Ice Age, the landscape around Milford Sound still bears evidence of its creation in the form of epic scenery: Cliffs rise from fjords crowned by mountains and waterfalls.

The best way to see Milford Sound is via boat. Take a sightseeing cruise on the fjord to see waterfalls and wildlife such as dolphins and penguins. Or navigate the waters under your own steam on a kayaking tour.

Once you’ve experienced the water from the surface, go underneath with a visit to the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory. This is the only floating, underwater observatory in New Zealand, and visitors can go more than 30 feet deep (while staying dry) and get 360 degrees of the underwater environment.

Where to stay: There are not a lot of places to stay close to the Sound, but if you’d rather not drive the three and a half hours from Queenstown, consider The Milford Sound Lodge. The lodge offers several packages for hiking and boat tours, and there really is no beating this spot in terms of access to the Sound.

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Auckland, New Zealand

As both the largest city in New Zealand and its international air travel hub, Auckland is one of the best places to go in New Zealand. Many international flights arrive in New Zealand through Auckland Airport, which makes it an ideal city from which to start your exploration of New Zealand.

Spend at least a day or two in Auckland to get over your long flight and explore the vibrant metropolis before venturing farther afield in New Zealand. Here are our suggestions for what to see and do in Auckland:

• Get some culture by visiting one of the many museums in Auckland, such as the Auckland Art Gallery. This is the largest art institution in New Zealand, featuring more than 15,000 works of historic, modern, and contemporary art.
• If the weather is nice, take a stroll through the 185-acre Auckland Domain park. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, include a stop at the nearby Parnell Farmers’ Market, which sells fresh produce in the morning.
• Auckland is also home to a host of multicultural bars and restaurants serving up all types of cuisine, so be sure to dine in downtown Auckland (and go out for a cocktail or two to check out the nightlife).
• If you’re looking for adventure activities in Auckland, consider the Auckland Bridge Climb. And if you’re really brave, try the Auckland Bridge bungee jump.
• If you’re looking for guided trips in Auckland, book an Auckland City Tour or an America’s Cup sailing experience on Waitemata Harbour.

Where to stay: Just a 10 minute drive from many of the city’s main attractions, Poenamo Hotel is a great option for travelers who value their peace and quiet but still want to stay in a central location.

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Waiheke Island, New Zealand

Just a little more than 30 minutes by boat from downtown Auckland is Waiheke Island, one of the best places to go in New Zealand for wine lovers. For a small island in the middle of Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island sure is home to a lot of vineyards. To sample as many of them as you can on your visit to Waiheke Island, you’ll want to find someone else to drive. Our pick is Waiheke Island Wine Tours, whose expert local guides will shuttle you around to three vineyards to sample several different wines.

All that wine from the vineyards of Waiheke Island will make you hungry. When it’s time to eat, book your lunch or dinner at the Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant, a gorgeous eatery with sprawling views of the vineyard and the sea. For a really special meal, book the Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant’s tasting menu, a seven-course event with wine pairings.

Of course, there’s more to do on Waiheke Island than just drink wine! Waiheke Island is also famous for its vibrant art community, beaches, forests, and olive groves. We recommend booking a culture tour, scenic flight, or hiking trip while you’re there to really see why Waiheke Island is one of the best places to go in New Zealand.

Where to stay: It’s definitely worth staying overnight on Waiheke Island, too. Choose the Delamore Lodge, one of the best-reviewed Waiheke Island hotels on Tripadvisor. The hotel also offers some great packages featuring everything from wine and food to spa treatments for couples.

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Christchurch, New Zealand

Despite being rocked by four large earthquakes between September 2010 and December 2011, Christchurch has made a true comeback. Visitors to Christchurch will see evidence of the city’s rebirth everywhere, including new buildings made out of old shipping containers and other unique materials like the Cardboard Cathedral.

Of course, many of Christchurch’s original attractions are still standing. One of the best places to visit is the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a sprawling network of conservatories, walking tracks, and horticultural displays. The gardens also feature some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in New Zealand.

Take in the new and the old of Christchurch from above with a journey on the Christchurch Gondola. This cable car lifts you on a scenic ride to the top of Mt. Cavendish.

Where to stay: Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch overlooks Lake Kaikainui, offering a glimpse of the beautiful nature the rest of the region has to offer. Located under 10 minutes from Christchurch Airport, resort amenities include an 18-hole golf course, on-site bar and restaurant, and conference rooms available for large events.

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Queenstown, New Zealand

Located on the southwest side of the South Island, Queenstown has a well-deserved reputation as the adventure capital of New Zealand. During the winter and spring months (June to October), Queenstown is known for world-class skiing. Of course, there’s plenty to do in Queenstown year-round. Adventure activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and river rafting will let you experience the region from dizzying heights and at breathtaking speeds.

Queenstown is also home to the world’s highest cliff jump, the Shotover Canyon Swing, where you can hurl yourself off a cliff in a number of different ways—including backward or tied to a chair.

If you haven’t lost your appetite (or your lunch) on these adrenaline-pumping activities, enjoy the dining scene in Queenstown—it’s one of the best in New Zealand. As locals and tour guides alike will tell you, one of the best places to eat in Queenstown is Fergburger, which CNN says “may be the best burger joint on the planet.”

Where to stay: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is located on the edge of town, giving easy access to the restaurants and other shops but also letting you sleep in relative peace away from the hub of activity.

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Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, New Zealand

No list of the best places to go in New Zealand would be complete without mentioning Te Puia, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute located in Rotorua’s Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. At this Maori heritage center, you can learn about the nature and rich cultural history of the valley with a Te Rā Guided Experience during the day and experience a Maori welcome ceremony and traditional song and dance performance in the evening.

The Te Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley is also home to a number of active geysers, including Pohutu, the largest active geyser in the southern hemisphere. Mud pools are another natural attraction in the geothermal valley: These boiling pools reach temperatures of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Where to stay: Located close to the city center and near the Whakarewarewa Forest, the Distinction Hotel Rotorua is a great jumping off point for your Rotorua vacation. Amenities include free WiFi, a heated swimming pool, on-site spa, four dining options, and a hotel bar.

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Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, naturally illuminated by thousands of glowworms, are among the most unique places to go in New Zealand—and a visit to the caves is one experience you’ll be hard-pressed to duplicate anywhere else. You can take a boat ride through the caves to learn about the history and science behind the phenomenon.

Or, if you really want a unique adventure, try black-water rafting with The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company, which will float you on an inner tube down a subterranean stream. It will be pitch-dark (except for the glowworms), and you’ll get to do everything from jumping off waterfalls to rappelling down cave walls. Choose your own adventure when you book the tour.

There are other (non-glowworm) caves in Waitomo, too. Aranui Cave features ancient cave decorations; Ruakuri Cave has an awesome spiral entrance and unique limestone formations—and, okay, more glowworms, but in this cave, you can do a walking tour rather than a water-based excursion.

Where to stay: The Waitomo Caves Hotel is minutes from the famous glowworm caves. It offers a spa as well as cave tour reservations through its website.

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Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

You can hike an actual glacier in New Zealand. The Franz Josef Glacier plays host to both guided walks and jaw-dropping helicopter tours. Tours offer everything from ice climbing to a more relaxed hike on the 6.8-mile-long glacier.

Won’t you be freezing on top of a giant glacier? Nope! The Franz Josef Glacier receives a lot of sunlight, and temperatures on the ice are usually only a few degrees colder than in the nearby town.

Cap off a day touring the Franz Josef Glacier with a soak in the Glacier Hot Pools. The pools are fed by the waters from the Franz Josef Glacier, and you can use one of the three warm pools or get a private pool.

Where to stay: Franz Josef is a small enough town that the precise location won’t make too much of a difference (you’ll be close to everything no matter where you are). Consider the Aspen Court Franz Josef, which has received some of the best ratings in the area.

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Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

See New Zealand’s highest mountains and longest glacier in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking here, no matter what your skill level. For experienced climbers, there are 23 peaks over 9,800 feet. For those looking for something a little more low-key, there are lots of walks along paved trails or boardwalks that still offer spectacular views.

Make sure you stay past sunset for a visit to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, where light pollution is strictly controlled for amazing stargazing opportunities.

Where to stay: Located inside the national park, The Hermitage Hotel will put you close to everything you want to see and do. Splurge on a room with a view of Aoraki/Mt. Cook—it’s worth it.

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All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2014. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 10 Best Places to Go in New Zealand appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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

Stroll Around Zilker Metropolitan Park

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

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

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

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Cool Off at Barton Springs

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

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

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Coffee at Walton’s Fancy & Staple

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

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

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

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Lady Bird Lake Trail

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

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

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

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Tour the Texas State Capitol

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

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

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

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See All of Austin From Mount Bonnell

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

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

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

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Visit the LBJ Presidential Library

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

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

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

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Go Two-Stepping at the Broken Spoke

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

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

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

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Take a Spooky Tour in a Hearse

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

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

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

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Snap a Pic With the I Love You So Much Mural

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

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

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

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Spend an Evening Watching Austin’s Famous Bats

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

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

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

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Go Shopping at Allens Boots

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

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

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

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Attend the Austin City Limits Music Festival

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

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

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

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

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

Mandarin Oriental

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

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

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

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Biltmore Hotel Coral Gables

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

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

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Nobu Hotel Miami Beach

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

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

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The Setai

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

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

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Shelborne South Beach

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

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

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Fontainebleau Miami Beach

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

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

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W South Beach

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

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

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Four Seasons at the Surf Club

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

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

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

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Faena Hotel Miami Beach

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

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

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The National Hotel Miami Beach

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Click to explore the most beautiful places in each region.

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

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

Alberta 

Banff National Park     

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

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

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Jasper National Park   

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

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

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Abraham Lake  

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

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

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British Columbia 

Victoria  

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

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

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Vancouver Seawall 

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

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

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Whistler 

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

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

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Glacier National Park  

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

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

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Great Bear Rainforest 

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

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

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Okanagan Valley

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

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

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Yoho National Park 

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

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

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Manitoba 

Cape Churchill  

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

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

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New Brunswick 

Fundy National Park  

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

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

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Gros Morne National Park  

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

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

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Nova Scotia 

Cabot Trail  

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

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

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Ontario 

Niagara Falls 

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

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

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CN Tower 

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

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

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Prince Edward County  

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

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

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Prince Edward Island 

Prince Edward Island National Park  

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

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

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Victoria-by-the-Sea  

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

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

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Quebec 

Old Montreal  

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

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

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Quebec City  

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

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

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Mont-Tremblant 

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

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

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Saskatchewan 

Grasslands National Park  

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

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

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Northwest Territories 

Great Slave Lake  

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

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

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Nunavut 

Baffin Island  

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

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

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Yukon 

Whitehorse Region  

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

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

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Mandarin Oriental Boston

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

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

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

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The Liberty Hotel 

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

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

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The Newbury Boston  

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

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

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The Colonnade Hotel Boston 

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

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

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W Boston 

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

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Boston Marriott Long Wharf 

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

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

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Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport 

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

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

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Cambria Hotel Boston

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

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

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Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street 

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

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

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Boston Park Plaza 

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

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

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Battery Wharf Hotel Boston Waterfront

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

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

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The Ritz Carlton Boston 

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

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

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The Verb Hotel

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

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

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

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Moxy Boston Downtown

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

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The Row Hotel 

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

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

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

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

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

Carve Designs Lexi Dress

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

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

Toad & Co Cue Wrap Short Sleeve Dress

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

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

Coolibar Tierra Tank Dress

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

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

Columbia Plus Size Freezer III Dress

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

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

Carve Designs Lyla Dress

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

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

Toad & Co Sunkissed Maxi Dress

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

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

Zella Departure Travel Dress

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

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

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

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

The Best Excursion Ticket Websites for Travelers

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

Viator
GetYourGuide
Tripadvisor
StubHub
Airbnb Experiences
Atlas Obscura
Tiqets
Groupon

Viator

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

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

GetYourGuide

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

Tripadvisor

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

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

StubHub

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

Airbnb Experiences

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

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

Atlas Obscura

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

Tiqets

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

Groupon

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

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

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