How to Plan the Perfect Family Trip to Niagara Falls

November 5, 2019 by Leave a Comment

niagara falls trip

Although Niagara Falls was associated with honeymooners for generations, it’s actually become a popular destination for families as well. Although the impressive waterfalls remain the main attraction, with everything from indoor waterparks, aquariums, museums, and more, it’s the perfect spot for families with kids of all ages.

But where do you begin planning your Niagara Falls vacation? Here are some tips to help make the planning process a bit easier, and help you have a stress-free, memorable family getaway. 

Question #1: When to Go

Most people think of Niagara Falls as a summer destination, and with good reason. Not only are the falls themselves running at full volume during the warmer months, all of the local attractions are accessible, and the temperatures are much more comfortable. On the downside, the crowds are much bigger in the summer, and you may have to wait in longer lines than you expect.

That being said, don’t rule out a winter visit to the Niagara Falls area entirely. It’s true that some of the biggest attractions, like the Maid of the Mist/Hornblower Cruises (the name depends on which side of the border you’re on) do not run during the winter, your kids may enjoy seeing the impressive ice formations that the cold temperatures create near the Falls. Not to mention, many of the things to do in Niagara Falls with kids take place indoors, so you can still enjoy your trip without venturing out into the cold. 

Question #2: Where to Stay

The big question for many families planning a trip to Niagara Falls is which side of the border to stay on, the New York or Canadian side. While the choice really comes down to personal preference (and your passport status, since every member of your family must have a valid passport to enter Canada), there are pros and cons to either option. Many families opt to stay on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls because there are more entertainment options, and because the views of the waterfalls are arguably more impressive from that side of the gorge. For example, you’ll find Clifton Hill on the Canadian side, which features a range of amusements that will keep your kids happy for hours, including the Skywheel. This giant Ferris wheel offers incredible views of the Falls and the surrounding area, and most kids love the experience. 

On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter, more laid-back experience and activities that involve learning more about the natural elements of the falls, and getting outdoors, then the New York side may be a better option. Niagara Falls State Park encompasses the area around the river and waterfalls, and has plenty of hiking trails, scenic areas, and museums to satisfy even the most curious adventurer. There are still restaurants, hotels, and a few attractions on the New York side, but far fewer than in Canada. 

Again, though, if you plan to cross the border at all, whether you are staying in Canada to just want to check out the sights from the north, you must bring your passport. Otherwise, you’ll be turned away at the border. 

Question #3: What Can We Do in Niagara Falls?

There’s no doubt Niagara Falls is an impressive sight, and it’s easy to become mesmerized by the thundering water and astounding views. But your kids will probably only want to look at the waterfalls for so long, and you’ll need to have some other activities planned. Thankfully, you have plenty of options. Some of the must-dos include:

  • A Maid of the Mist (NY) or Hornblower (Canada) cruise to the base of the falls. It’s likely to be one of the most exciting, and wet, boat rides your family ever takes.
  • Cave of the Winds or Journey Behind the Falls tours to check out the falls from behind the water.
  • Aquarium of Niagara, a small aquarium with an array of aquatic life from the Great Lakes Region – and penguins. 
  • Skylon Tower, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and more in Clifton Hill. 
  • Fort Niagara, a 300-year old fort featuring military reenactments from the War of 1812. 

With so much to do, you could easily spend several days in Niagara Falls without hearing a single “I’m bored.” 

So, whether you go in the summer or winter, stay in NY or Canada, and stick to the city or nature, Niagara Falls has plenty of options for a perfect family vacation.

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Tips for travel with kids because life shouldn’t stop

November 4, 2019 by 1 Comment

samantha feuss

People often believe that once you have kids your life suddenly stops. Well, at least the fun and wild part of it. How many times have you heard that you should travel as much as you can because when you have children you won’t be able to go anywhere? As a parent you probably know that this has nothing to do with reality. Okay, traveling with little ones is a little bit more complicated than traveling solo or with friends, but it is far from impossible. In fact, with these tips and tricks you will be able to have an enjoyable vacation without unnecessary unpleasantries. 

Plan your trip carefully

Maybe you really want to see those old churches of Europe or visit museums with incredible pieces of art, but save that for another time when your kids are older (or grandma volunteers to babysit for a couple of days). This type of sightseeing can be too tiring and too boring for little ones so instead try something else. While theme parks are always a good idea, you don’t have to spend the next decade in Disneyland. Kids love to play, explore, touch, see and experience new things so any activity that involves nature and animals will keep your children happy and entertained. However, if they will be spending a lot of time outside make sure you protect your kids from the damaging sun rays.

Travel light

When you picture traveling with kids it is likely that an image of several suitcases, bags and a full trunk of toys pops into your head, but if you want to turn your trip into a dream vacation and not a living nightmare, pack only what you really need. This way you won’t have a lot of stuff to carry and you will find everything you need more easily. Keep in mind that you will be able to wash your clothes wherever you go, so you really don’t have to pack your whole closet. After giving this a try you will realize how little you actually need on your trips.

Fight the jet lag with activities

Jet lag is the arch-enemy of most parents. When your little ones should be sleeping they are hanging from the chandelier full of energy and anxious to do something fun in a foreign land. However, there is an easy way to deal with jet lag. Since you will most likely stay up late the first night, take your kids out and stay active the whole time. There are so many fun outdoor activities for children you can try out at a playground or a park, you can explore the city and check out some of the attractions. Keep in mind that your little ones might get hungry in the middle of the night, so by making a stop by the local store you can avoid nerve-wracking tantrums. 

Stick to the same routines

Do you read your kids before bedtime? Or maybe they always get a bath before going to sleep? Do your little ones always take a nap around noon? The younger your children are, the more important the routine is for them. Therefore, try to keep the same habits you have at home and you won’t have to deal with cranky monsters.

Forget about souvenirs

If you have ever taken your kids grocery shopping, you surely know that they always find something they want to take home. The same thing will happen with souvenirs, but you need to resist the temptation (and avoid their puppy-eye looks) because once you cave and buy them something, they will keep asking for something else until you return home. In addition, souvenirs will keep them entertained for just a couple of minutes, and after that they will break, get lost or worse, just take up space in your baggage. Therefore, save money and spend it on something else, like ice cream. 

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be stressful or exhausting. With just several clever strategies you can have a memorable trip with your loved ones. 

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Epic Reasons You Should Want to Visit Alaska

November 4, 2019 by Leave a Comment

glacier

When people plan where to go on a vacation, Alaska is usually never on the list of places in countries they want to visit. In fact, when someone says they want to go to this part of the planet, the most common question is ‘Why’? Unfortunately, people who imagine Alaska to be just one huge block of ice are going to miss out on so much. The 49th state has so many things to offer, from mighty glaciers, amazing wildlife and a rich culture to breathtaking views and lively cities. Even if you are not a fan of cold weather and you are not at all interested in winter sports, going to Alaska should be on your bucket list. Here are just some of the reasons why people around the world are coming to visit The Last Frontier. 

The Northern Lights

If you come to Alaska in March and September, you will be able to witness one of Mother Nature’s best artworks. Seeing ribbons of color dancing around in the sky can really take your breath away and if you are really lucky, you might be able to hear the faint crackling typical for the aurora. Keep in mind that if you are visiting Alaska just to see these lights, you don’t want to come in June and July, since due to the endless sun during those months they won’t be visible.

World-class fishing

Every fisherman in the world will tell you that Alaska is the best place on the planet for fishing. In fact, there are so many fishing opportunities that even the residents of this state haven’t tried them all. Whether you want to catch tasty salmon, trout, or northern pike there are numerous charter companies available to take you out fishing. When you add exclusive and remote lodges to the equation, fishing in Alaska might be your dream vacation.  

Glaciers

There are more than 100, 000 glaciers in Alaska and you should be prepared to be dazzled by ice. A lot of them can be easily accessed, so be sure to check out Byron Glacier, Matanuska Glacier, Mendenhall Glacier or Exit Glacier. Many of these icy giants have been turned into tourist attractions, and you can even visit Spencer Glacier by train. 

 Interesting wildlife

If you call yourself an animal lover, you will definitely enjoy visiting Alaska and getting acquainted with its remarkable wildlife. If you want to see bears, moose, caribou, eagles and other creatures in this majestic land, be sure to visit Denali National Park. Whether you sign up for the flightseeing tour, ride the zipline, or go on jeep excursion, you will surely be rewarded with sights that will stay with you for a lifetime. 

Towering mountains

The tallest mountain in North America is located in Alaska. Denali is the centerpiece of Denali National Park and Preserve and it is 20,310 feet high. Although this mountain was officially called Mount McKinley for almost a century, its name was changed four years ago. If you are not feeling dare devilish, there are plenty of other mountains to explore. From Alaska Range to the Brooks Range, there are so many incredible opportunities for hiking, skiing, as well as other outdoor sports. The 49th state is the go-to place for adventurers so if you are interested in surfing, sea kayaking among icebergs, or cruising along faces of glaciers Alaska is definitely your heaven on Earth.

 With all these amazing things to see and experience, it is a shame not to visit this beautiful part of the world. Once you see how amazing Alaska really is and you fall in love with its beautiful landscapes, history, and unforgettable scenery, you will surely revisit it in the future.

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Top Places to Visit in the UK with Your Family

October 31, 2019 by 1 Comment

A holiday in a new country holds enough promise of establishing everlasting memories. If the family also joins in the fun, than it makes the trip that much more special. International family vacations have an added appeal as the kids are sure to experience something they have never had before. While the world is blessed with a lot of beautiful destinations, the UK too is home to many stunning places which will leave the family gasping in disbelief with their beauty. To choose a perfect place, from the hundreds from all over Britain, can be challenging, but we understand the demands of the modern day family and have selected the most suitable family hot spots for them. 

So stop browsing on the internet and  just follow our suggestions that will take care of all the travel niggles of the whole family during a trip to the UK. Here’s our handpicked list of top family days out in the UK – 

South Downs National Park

There is no better way to get close to nature than by way of a family holiday in the wilds of South Downs National Park located at Eastbourne, East Sussex. While the parents can relax at the family friendly Shore View Hotel right next to the park, the kids can spend the day spotting birds they may have never seen or heard before. In this natural habitat there is no shortage of things to do. The children can go camping, attend a wildlife course or listen to nature talks etc, all activities which would fit perfectly in your family getaway itinerary.

Chessington World of Adventures

With more than 40 rides and attractions, spread over 10 theme parks, Chessington World of Adventures provides non-stop excitement to the whole family. In addition, the kids have a unique opportunity to get up close to nearly a thousand different animals, most of them highly endangered and rare like, the Lowland Gorilla and the Asiatic lion. A thrilling roller coaster ride on the Scorpion Express, designed especially for the first time kids, promises surprises and thrills on each and every turn and is a mega draw. The Sea Life center will also leave the whole family occupied for hours. The park is located in Chessington, Surrey.

Ladram Bay Holiday Park

This award winning family owned property offers the ideal getaway for a family seeking a holiday by the sea. The park lies in BudleighSalterton, South Devon, and offers top entertainment by way of golf and horse riding.The adjacent Jurassic Coast area is perfectly safe for swimming and other water based activities. Fishing in the rock pools in this sheltered bay is also a very popular pastime. There is ample accommodation available here with hotels having an interactive play zone for kids, while the adults can relax in the spa or use the gym. Ladram Bay Entertainment Team provides many interesting things for children including games and singing competitions.

Birmingham

The fabulous city of Birmingham, due to its proximity to London, makes for a great weekend break with the kids. Even though the city is undergoing a major renovation, one can spend hours and hours simply moving on foot and enjoying the many attractions the small city has to offer. Children will love to see the National Sea Life center or get a feel of the local culture at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Entry to this interactive place is totally free. The recently introduced Legoland Discovery Center is also a top draw with all age groups. As far as eating out is concerned, families will enjoy visiting the chain of restaurants overlooking the canals in Brindley Place. The city has many concert and show venues, where families can watch great performances at par with West End, but at a far lesser price.

Brighton

The United Kingdom has a plethora of towns by the sea, but none as more inviting as the quaint city of Brighton. This wonderful place is a haven not only for teenagers but for kids of other ages too. Brighton is accessible by a short train ride from London, while buses are also available all along the coast. The seafront is a great area to introduce the kids to the city, with its quirky outlets and small galleries. For the best views, climb up to the i360 observation tower and gaze down from a height of 162 m.The narrow lanes in the city are great for vintage shopping. One can pick up souvenirs and other knick knacks quite cheaply here. Children will love the fairy tale atmosphere of the iconic Royal Pavilion and it’s opulent decoration which includes animals and dragons to enhance the feeling.

CHIPPING CAMPDEN

Chipping Campden

One of the most charming town of the many that dot the Cotswolds, Chipping Campden dates back to as far as 1627. Trains from London to Stratford upon Avon offer quick connection, and once there a car is ideal for exploring the place. There are a number of shops and pubs worth visiting, while the kids can hike on the many routes available around the town. Trips to Shakespeare’s family home and to Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill are a must. Kids will be kept occupied at the butterfly house or by a ride on the miniature train. An easy drive from Chipping Campden is Warwick Castle where kids can enact the era of the knights and queens by dressing up like them and participate in archery or watch fireballs being shot across the lawns

Lake District

This mind-blowing UNESCO World Heritage Site in the district of Cumbria is known for its sheer beauty and epic landscapes. The Lake District can be reached by an easy day trip west of London, and is near other popular spots of Bristol and Bath. Families flock here to get a feel of the true taste of English country life.Paddling on any of the sixteen lakes is a great hit with children, while other family friendly activities include a visit to the Beatrix Potter Museum. Here the many caves and spooky manor homes make for a perfect adventurous holiday in this 1287 square kilometres of pristine countryside.

The United Kingdom is the right place to take the family for a vacation. The beautiful beaches, the Gothic cathedrals, the idyllic English countryside, all have something for visitors of every age. Moreover, being compact in size, most of the attractions can be accessed easily in a small area. Most places cater to the interest of the kids as much as they do for adults. So for some good dose of family fun, head to the UK with the kids before they grow up.

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Book a Luxury Hotel Room at Brunelleschi Hotel

October 30, 2019 by Leave a Comment

If you are traveling to Florence in Italy, stay in one of the luxury hotel rooms at the Brunelleschi Hotel for the most comfort.

Due to its popularity among tourists, in 2016, there were over 20 thousand hotel rooms in 570 facilities across Florence. However, none of them are quite like the luxury hotel rooms at Brunelleschi Hotel.

In total, the 4-star Brunelleschi Hotel has 96 spacious, luxury hotel rooms. On top of being near the most attractive destinations in the city, the rooms are also very comfortable, supported by a well-mannered concierge, and offer some magnificent views of the cityscape. Based on the type of amenities and view, the luxury hotel rooms at Brunelleschi Hotel are divided into five main categories.

Deluxe Executive Panorama

Redecorated by architect Benelli, the Deluxe Executive Panorama is a dream for any travelers visiting Florence. The room is equipped with all the luxurious amenities and offers the ultimate viewing pleasure for its guests. As the name suggests, you can enjoy among others, a full panoramic view of Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazzale Michelangelo, San Lorenzo, Palazzo Vecchio, Giotto tower and Brunelleschi’s Cupola. At 269sq feet, the room is spacious and decorated with specially designed furniture. The attached bathroom is completed with a luxury marble finish and has all the standard amenities.

Deluxe Rooms

If you are looking for a room with a view of the Duomo – otherwise known as the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, book on of the deluxe rooms at Brunelleschi Hotel. Some rooms offer a front-facing view, while some others offer a side view. There are also some deluxe rooms that offer a view of the Florence shopping district – Via Dei Calzaiuoli. They offer all the luxuries expected of a 4-star hotel room, with the options of a spacious king-sized bed, or twin beds that can be easily joined together.

Classic Executive

Most of the Classic Executive double rooms come with a view of the del Giglio square. There are also some rooms overlooking the famous Via dei Calzaiuoli, which can be yours upon availability in one of your lucky days. They either come with a queen-sized bed or twin beds that can be joined to make up as one. They come with all the standard amenities and designed to provide a sound sleep in the downtown surroundings.

Superior Executive

Despite being located in the inner courtyard of the Hotel Brunelleschi; the Superior Executive rooms offer a view of the Giglio square. The rooms have been recently refurbished to bring them up to speed, and now offers a contemporary décor. The rooms are cozy, with a 4-poster bed with premium mattress, and a walk-in closet.

Family Room

Ideal for up to 6 people, the family rooms at Hotel Brunelleschi is made by connecting two Deluxe rooms. You can choose between the options of two twin beds, or one king-sized bed in each of the rooms. Along with the standard amenities, these rooms also offer a DVD player with different kid-friendly cartoons.

Standard Amenities

Aside from a few extra additions for specific rooms, below is a list of standard amenities that are offered in any of the luxury hotel rooms at the Brunelleschi Hotel:

-Two telephones in the room, one in the bathroom.

-A 42-inch LCD TV with satellite channels.

– High-speed Wi-Fi internet and a selection of daily newspapers.

-24-hrs room service, twice daily maids and laundry.

– Top-class bathroom amenities with a luxury courtesy line.

– Air conditioning with heating and remote control.

-Gluten-free minibar, American bar.

– iPod docking stations, safe with a lock and inner PowerPoint.

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Savings Ideas for a Great Vacation to Aurora, Colorado

October 23, 2019 by Leave a Comment

Planning a great vacation getaway in Aurora does not have to cost you that much.

 

The city of Aurora, is considered the 3rd most populous city in the state. Aurora traces its beginnings to the 1880s, when it started as a town called Fletcher, named after a businessman whose actions caused grief to the town citizens. Years later, residents of Fletcher renamed their town Aurora, and became one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Colorado. There are more than twenty historic landmarks and site attractions in the city, as well as a cultural center and a lively new Arts District. There are many activities worth doing in Aurora, and most of them are friendly to one’s budget that visitors are assured of a great vacation at less cost.

 

City Highlight: Have the best shopping experience in Aurora by visiting the Aurora Southlands Mall, which offers not only a place to shop, but also a great and relaxing spot to dine and watch a movie.

 

Where to Stay While in Aurora

 

Aurora offers a plethora of hotel accommodations, ranging from the economical to the most luxurious lodgings available in the state of Colorado. Furry members of the family are welcome at the following establishments: Crestwood Suites Denver-Aurora, (at East Evans Avenue); Crossland (at North Chambers Road); and at Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites (at South Abilene Road).

 

For travelers who are conscious about their budget, the following cheap hotels in Aurora offer accommodations that are truly value for money. Fairfield Inn at E. Harvard Avenue offers free high-speed internet connection, free breakfasts, and affordable room rates. Meanwhile, Extended Stay Deluxe is ideal for longer-staying guests looking for an affordable hotel. They would certainly appreciate the full-service amenities, such as kitchens with refrigerators, microwaves, and stovetops; deluxe coffee; on-site laundry facilities; and wireless internet, offered here.

 

Many hotels in Aurora offer special promos and great discounts several times a year. One way of making sure that you are getting the best deal on your hotel accommodations in the city is by doing some online sleuthing prior to your trip. Conducting your own research will also help you find the best hotel deals available. You should also watch out for discounts on hotel room rates and be sure to take advantage of this as much as possible.

 

Vacationing in Aurora Without Going Broke

 

Aurora offers numerous exciting activities for its visitors all year round. For those who are interested in learning more about the city’s rich history, there are several places of interest worth checking out. One such place is the Plains Conservation Center that is located on East Hampden Avenue. The Center showcases artifacts and other items commemorating the early days of Colorado, that is, from the days of the Native Americans to the time of the pioneers.

 

Aurora is nestled within the wild beauty of Mother Nature. As such, there are numerous areas that are dedicated to showcasing the wonders of the natural world. Parks and gardens are plentiful in Aurora, providing the ideal venues for an idyllic picnic with the entire family or a hiking or biking expedition. The following are places that you should not miss when planning a day of immersing in the beauty of the surroundings: Utah Park Aurora, Cherry Creek State Park, and Jewell Wetland.

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The Most Gorgeous Destinations in Europe you Must See for Yourself

October 23, 2019 by Leave a Comment

If you’re planning an extended trip to Europe, then you’ll probably want to spend your time admiring some of the most beautiful and breath-taking places on the continent. There are many stunning destinations to visit in Europe, with each having their unique qualities and features, but some are even more awe-inspiring than others, so it makes sense to put these on the top of your list. If you are serious about seeing some of the most gorgeous and unforgettable European destinations, put these on your bucket list. 

Positano, Italy:

Nestled in the cliffside of the awe-inspiring Amalfi Coast in Italy, Positano is a stunning coastal town that’s far away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, but close enough to turn into an unforgettable day trip. Close by, it’s worth paying a visit to the beautiful Isle of Capri and exploring Sorrento. 

The Cotswolds, England:

London might be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of England but the truth is, this small country has so much natural beauty to offer elsewhere. The Cotswolds is a rural area that is named after the small collection of towns and estates characterised by distinctive yellow limestone. 

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany:

When it comes to fairytales, you can’t get much better than visiting the real-life ‘Disney castle’ in Germany. And if you’re a fan of castles in general then Europe is certainly full of them, with Germany being home to many of the most beautiful. 

Budapest, Hungary:

Budapest is by far one of the most popular cities in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. With a fascinating history and culture, amazing architecture that can easily rival the likes of Paris and Rome, gorgeous stately interiors, friendly locals and amazing hot springs that you can enjoy even in the middle of winter, Budapest is perfect for a day trip, weekend or a longer stay. 

The Algarve, Portugal:

If you’re looking for a break from city life and want to enjoy some sun, sand and sea then look no further than the Algarve in Portugal. Despite being a hotspot for tourists, Southern Portugal has somehow managed to retain a lot of its authentic charm in the past couple of decades, with a strong influx of Portuguese tourists. If you’re planning a trip to Portugal – use Triptile to create your itinerary and find the best deals on tours and tickets. 

St Petersburg, Russia:

If you want to visit a big city on a budget, visit impressive buildings, explore fascinating history and culture, and view a lot of interesting art then St Petersburg is for you. This unique, gorgeous city has been compared with Venice thanks to the fact that you’re never too far from water, and there’s something for everybody. The museums are some of the best places to visit – you can spend days in the Russian Museum, which is spread over four gorgeous palaces and is home to the best collection of Russian art in the world. 

Rome, Italy:

Italy has earned a reputation for being one of the most beautiful and romantic countries in the world, so it’s no surprise that many of Europe’s most stunning locations are here. The capital, Rome, is a breath-taking city with many beautiful sights to behold, from the awe-inspiring ancient colosseum to the beautiful historic architecture and art in the Vatican City – which is actually a country in its own right. And from Rome, you can find many great travel connections to visit even more stunning Italian destinations such as Venice – check out https://rail.ninja/route/rome-to-venice to get started. 

Have you visited any gorgeous, unforgettable European destinations? We’d love to hear about them!

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The Best National Parks in The US

October 23, 2019 by Leave a Comment

The US is full of stunning national parks that are packed with wildlife and amazing sights, all different from one another in their own way. If you want to take a step into nature, then a trip to one of the nation’s many parks should be on the agenda for you. 

Each national park has its own individual attractions and features that will entice you to come visit them. It can be difficult to pick which ones you want to take the time to visit when they all sound so appealing; so, to make this easier, here is a compiled list of the best national parks that the US has to offer: 

 

  • Glacier National Park

 

 

Lovingly known as the Crown of the Continent, this national park sits on the border between Canada and the US, which makes it one of the coldest and snowy parks on this list. At its name suggests, this park is known for its glaciers which are remnants of the ice age. 

Glacier National Park has hiking trails for people of all skill levels; if you’re a well-seasoned hiker, you can take the challenging Grinnell Trail, but if this is one of your first hikes, you should probably opt for the scenic Trail of the Cedars that will be significantly easier on your hiking boots.

Unlike most national parks, this one boasts stunning glacial lakes because of its icy climate. This park has over 700 lakes for you to explore, some existing as a unique phenomenon known as glacial tarns, in which, sometimes, they will form with a special type of waterfall which isolates them from fish migration. These tarns are now home to different kinds of plants and animals, unique to other kinds of lakes and well worth a visit. 

 

  • Arches National Park 

 

 

If you are looking for something a little different to the usual snow-topped peaks and greenery that covers most national parks in the US, then the Arches National Park is worth a visit. There isn’t a patch of green in sight. 

This park is home to thousands of natural-forming arches—this is where it gets its name—made from sandstone that are a gorgeous orange-red color when the sun hits them. It is also home to brilliant red rocks that make for a great change of pace from the greenery you can get used to seeing in other parks. The landscape is rocky and gives you an exceptional experience different to what most national parks have to offer.

Most of the arches have their own unique names, from the Delicate Arch to the Fiery Furnace. Bring along your camera to this stunningly unique national park and take some photographs to remember, especially when the shadows move. 

 

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park 

 

 

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a gorgeous destination if you enjoy relaxing drives among a breathtaking landscape. Take a look into renting an RV from Cruise America and enjoy a trip down the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, spotting mountainous peaks and stopping off to view the region’s beautiful waterfalls: Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls. This trail is also a great chance to look for the local wildlife. From birds to bears, you and your family will have something to stare in awe at along this trail. 

This national park is full of natural and human history from its old mountain villages that were settled in by Europeans more than a hundred years ago, to the peaks themselves that are older than we could ever imagine. The combination of natural and human history offers you a well-rounded view of the history of this national park. 

 

  • Shenandoah National Park 

 

 

Situated in the state of Virginia, this national park runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains and is just 75 miles from Washington, D.C. 

For a true experience with nature, this park offers four campsites across its grounds that will give you the chance to sleep under the stars if you choose, or in the comfort of your RV, knowing that the wonders of the park are just outside your door. 

Most famous for its Skyline Drive, Shenandoah is also home to the longer Appalachian Trail for more experienced hikers who want to challenge their stamina. The park is filled out with the craggy peaks of the Old Rag and Hawksbill mountains and has acres of forested land for you to explore. Among the forests, you can be on the look-out for the park’s deer species and you may even be lucky enough to spot the rare black bear. 

 

  • Olympic National Park

 

 

Expanding over a whopping one million acres, there is something waiting for you to discover it at the Olympic National Park. 

This park’s main attraction is the marvel of the Hoh Rain Forest. Free to enter, you can experience the forest of moss-covered trees to your heart’s content. The rainforest has two trails for you to choose from, the Spruce Nature Trail or the Hall of Mosses Trail: each one has gorgeous scenery for you to explore. At the start of the trails, there is also a visitor center which features an exhibition area and a bookstore, so you can stock up on the park’s vivid history and nature facts before you go exploring it for yourself. 

Just under an hour’s drive from Forks, Washington, this national park is full of nature’s wonders, acre to acre. 

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All of these national parks are wonderfully unique, and each have something individual to offer that you simply couldn’t find anywhere else. The right national park for you depends on what you want to see and experience. With a range of ecosystems and environments across each and every one of these parks, there will certainly be something that catches your eye and makes you want to take a trip to discover more about these marvellous parks full of nature’s wonders. Whether you are fascinated by glacial lakes, or are desperate to learn more about the history of mountain villages, there is a national park out there that you will adore.

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