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A hiker sits on a ledge overlooking a large rock balancing on a rocky column.

Chiricahua National Park: America’s 64th National Park

Chiricahua is now America's 64th national park. Discover why this Arizona destination is special and what to see when you visit.
two cups of espresso

Best Coffee Cities in America: WalletHub Rankings vs…

A new WalletHub study ranks the top U.S. cities for coffee lovers. Hereโ€™s how the data stacks up against my own caffeinated travels โ€” and why some cities surprised me.
A woman walks toward an antler arch at the doorway into Jackson Hole Airport, WY.

10 Small Airports That Make Travel Easier โ€”…

Discover the top small airports in the US for low-stress travel, with driving distances to nearby attractions like Yosemite, Myrtle Beach, and Cape Cod. A practical guide for families, outdoor lovers, and holiday planners.
Bats fly out of the cave entrance at Carlsbad Caverns National Park

11 Spooky Experiences in and Around National Parks…

From haunted hotels and ghost tours to mysterious disappearances and eerie park legends, these 11 spooky experiences in and around national parks reveal a different side of America's favorite destinations.
Apples and two glasses of cider sit on a wooden table, representing that cideries are fun places to visit in the fall season.

These Cideries Are Worth a Fall Road Trip:…

Fall is peak season for cider tasting and scenic escapes. We highlight USA Todayโ€™s top cideries and share two personal favorites that blend bold flavors, cozy atmospheres, and unforgettable fall vibes.
A black bear crosses the road as a car approaches in the Smokies.

What Bears Really Do in the Smokies Each…

Fall is one of the most active seasons for black bears in the Smokies. As hyperphagia kicks in, bears spend long hours feeding, roaming, and preparing for winter. This guide explains what to expect, where sightings are most likely, and how to stay safe during this busy season.
A Great Smoky Mountains National Park elk bugles during the rut.

Where to See Elk Rut in the Smokies:…

Elk rut transforms Great Smoky Mountains National Park each fall, bringing dramatic behavior, bugling, and active herds to open valleys. This guide explains what rut looks like, where to go, and how October conditions shape the experience.
A large scarecrow stands along an Anakeesta overlook with views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Inside Anakeestaโ€™s Fall Festival: Atmosphere, Food, and Seasonal…

Anakeestaโ€™s fall festival brings color, music, and themed fun to the mountaintop village. This guide shares what youโ€™ll see, eat, and enjoy during the season.
A woman walks along Anakeesta's Treetop Skywalk with the sun glowing behind the forest.

What You Really Get at Anakeesta: A Candid…

Many travelers wonder: is Anakeesta worth it, or is it mostly marketing? This honest overview explains what you can expect, from views and activities to crowds and overall value.
Vibrant fall foliage stretches across the Smokies in Tennessee

9 National Parks That Shine in Fall: Where…

From golden aspens to fiery maples, these nine national parks offer unforgettable fall color. Weโ€™ve visited sixโ€”hereโ€™s what to expect and when to go.
A sandhill crane gazes intensely during the Tanana Valley Sandhill Crane Festival in Fairbanks, Alaska

Your Guide to the Tanana Valley Sandhill Crane…

Each August, thousands of sandhill cranes descend on Fairbanks, Alaska โ€” and so do birders. This guide to the Tanana Valley Sandhill Crane Festival shares firsthand tips, event highlights, and how to make the most of your visit to Creamerโ€™s Field.
A man walks a paved path under cherry trees in Washington, DC

Should You See the DC Cherry Blossoms?

You have dreamed about seeing the beautiful DC cherry blossoms. Is the trip worth it? Find out what the experience is really like.
close view of a purple gallinule in Everglades National Park

With 63 Parks, What Are the Best National…

The United States offers 63 national parks for you to explore and enjoy. What are the best national parks to visit in April?
A powerful waterfall pours over a cliff along the Snake River in Twin Falls, Idaho.

8 Beautiful States You’ve Been Ignoring

Discover the breathtaking beauty hidden in plain sight across Americaโ€™s most underrated states!
A man stands between two trees and looks ahead at mountains during sunset

A Spring Visitorโ€™s Guide to Great Smoky Mountains…

Julie and I have explored America’s most-visited national park at various times of the year, but spring in the Smokies is special. A spring trip is all about timing based on your interests. A visit in March looks very different from a visit in May.ย Whether your primary interest is hitting the hiking trails or sitting ... Read More
Marvel cruise

Marvel Cruise: What Can You Expect?

Disney Cruise Line offers Marvel Day at Sea for superhero fans. We unmask the details so you know what to expect on your Marvel cruise.
Birds perch on and fly above an arch rock, Anacapa Island, Channel Islands National Park.

Which Channel Island Should You Visit? (Islandโ€‘byโ€‘Island Breakdown)

Choosing between the five islands in Channel Islands National Park can feel overwhelming. This guide explains what each island offers โ€” from access and terrain to wildlife and ideal seasons โ€” so you can pick the best fit for your trip.
A woman walks under a moss-draped and arch-shaped tree branch in Olympic National Park, WA.

The Olympic National Park Experiences That Stay With…

Olympic National Park delivers unforgettable moments across beaches, rainforests, mountains and lakes. These are the experiences that stood out most during our visit.
A man watches a gorilla at the Cincinnati Zoo.

Whatโ€™s New at the Cincinnati Zoo in 2026:…

Find out whatโ€™s new at the Cincinnati Zoo in 2026, including the latest exhibits, animals, and experiences that make this yearโ€™s visit special.
A woman stands on a rock and enjoys the view from Thorofare Mountain Overlook on Skyline Drive.

When Shenandoah Truly Shines: A Seasonal Guide to…

Shenandoah changes dramatically from season to season. This guide breaks down weather, crowds, lodging costs, and top activities to help you choose the best time to visit.
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