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Everyone needs to getaway sometimes

What is a one day trip.

A one day trip is a mini vacation, a shot of adventure squeezed delightfully into 24 hours. That could be traveling after work to your hotel and spending the evening at the theater or on a boat cruise then filling the next day with some urban exploring. Maybe you like to travel in the morning, fill your day with adventures, then relax in your hotel and head home the next morning. Explore our library of one day getaway ideas to get your imagination going and design your dream one day trip around your schedule.

What are some great one day vacation ideas?

Pull on your walking boots, rent a bike, or take to the water on a wonderful outdoors adventure then stay in a luxury cabin for the ultimate detox reset. You might prefer to load up on culture by exploring museums before sipping classy cocktails in a chic hotel bar on a one-day city break. At Expedia, we help you discover new places for your one day getaway and find the right flights, accommodation, and car rental to get you there easily.

How do I find the best one day getaways?

Enter your starting location, destination, and travel dates and explore the fantastic selection of packages that include flights and accommodation. Alternatively, you can build your own one day getaway vacation by clicking on hotels, car rental, things to do, vacation rentals and flights separately. It’s easy to compare prices, find your best option, then just click to book—simple!

Are there any day trip ideas for couples?

Escape for a night in a luxury cabin with ocean views or celebrate a special occasion on a romantic one day getaway in a hotel with a hot tub. Yes, sip bubbles while sitting in bubbles—you know the right short break will bring you closer together.

How do I find one day getaway deals?

Search through the fantastic deals available for you on an impressive selection of one day getaway packages, hotels, and flights. Simply enter your location, destination, and travel dates then compare prices. Our filters make it easy for you to narrow your search by price, location, and amenities. If you’re flexible about when you travel, you could try changing the dates for even more variety.

Why should I book a one day getaway with Expedia?

At Expedia, you save money and enjoy a hassle-free booking journey to booking and your dream one day getaway. There’s a huge range of great escapes just a click away. 

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20 Best Day Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, one of the best things to do in a city is escape for a while. And sometimes all you need is a day to recharge, which is why we’ve selected 20 outstanding trips that only take an hour or two from the country’s major cities. Beautiful islands, stunning state parks, and charming towns await you outside the city limits, so get ready to hop in the car or catch a train to these places that offer a welcome change of scenery.

by Christina Valhouli

Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow

Near: New York City

Sleepy Hollow may be familiar to fans of the short story, but there's more to this town than that. Fans of Washington Irving's work (and the TV show) should pay a visit to his home, Sunnyside , as well as Sleepy Hollow Cemetery , where the Headless Horseman chased Ichabod Crane. For something less spooky, carve out time to visit the area's historic mansions, such as the Rockefeller estate, Kykuit , and Tarrytown's  Lyndhurst , once owned by a railroad baron. Stop for a meal at Blue Hill at Stone Barns , a celebrated restaurant located on a working farm.

Insider Tip:  Irving is famous for his iconic literary characters—including Brom Bones, Ichabod Crane, and Rip Van Winkle—but few people know he was also the U.S. Ambassador to Spain from 1842–1846.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Hudson Valley Guide

Starved Rock State Park

Near: Chicago

Beat Chicago's heat with a visit to Starved Rock State Park , located about two hours southwest of the city. The park, which was once home to Native Americans, is a National Historic Landmark filled with canyons, waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs boasting views of the Illinois River. In addition, visitors can spend the day exploring 13 miles of hiking trails. Once you've worked up an appetite, stop for lunch at the Starved Rock Lodge . During the winter, it's a popular place to spot bald eagles.

Insider Tip: On the way back to Chicago, stop by two wineries near Starved Rock, August Hill and Illinois River .

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Chicago Guide

Near: Boston

History buffs, fans of literature, and outdoorsmen will all find something to love in Concord. This small town is famous for its role during the American Revolution (Paul Revere rode through Concord to warn the militia that the British were coming) and is the hometown of literary heroes. Emerson, Thoreau, Alcott, and Hawthorne all lived here, and visitors can stop by Orchard House , the Alcott family home, or Wayside, where Hawthorne once lived. Head to Walden Pond to see where Thoreau spent nearly two years of his life, and spend an afternoon hiking or canoeing. Treat yourself to a farm-to-table meal at Bondir Concord .

Insider Tip: In 1849, horticulturist Ephraim Bull bred the Concord grape at his home on 491 Lexington Avenue, where the original vine is still growing.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Boston Guide

Wilmington, Delaware

Near: Philadelphia

Wilmington is known for its beautiful architecture and abundance of museums, as well as being a family-friendly area. Head to the Brandywine Zoo , the only one in the state, or spend some time at the Delaware Children's Museum , which will appeal to toddlers and preteens. For a taste of the gilded life, visit Nemours Mansion and Gardens , a Du Pont family home spread over 300 acres (reservations are essential).

Insider Tip: Love factory tours? Herr's Snack Factory in nearby Nottingham, Pennsylvania offers free tours. Visitors can learn the ins and outs of making pretzels and tortilla chips.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Wilmington Guide

Middleburg, Virginia

Near: Washington, D.C.

Middleburg is known as the epicenter of Virginia's horse country and is a popular retreat for D.C. power brokers. Fox hunts and polo matches are the big social events here, but there's also plenty of antique shopping to be done as well. The National Sporting Library & Museum is located here, and there's no shortage of upscale, British and French inspired gastropubs. Love wine? The area is home to about 30 producers.

Insider Tip: The oldest building in town is the The Red Fox Inn & Tavern , which was built in 1728 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Middleburg Guide

Near: San Francisco

Most people who visit California wine country head to Napa or Sonoma, but for a different twist on the experience, explore Calistoga. This town is the most laid-back in the region, and is known for its hot springs and Victorian architecture as well as its wine. Dr. Wilkinson's is one of the original spas and offers mud baths in a no-frills setting; go for “the works,” which includes a soak in a mud tub, massage, and facial. Don't miss Chateau Montelena , or Clos Pegase winery, which was designed by Michael Graves and features large-scale sculptures dotted around its property.

Insider Tip: En route to Calistoga, stop at Gott's Roadside, whose menu includes green chile cheeseburgers and Ahi tuna burgers. There's also an impressive wine list.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Calistoga Guide

Santa Barbara

Near : Los Angeles

There's a good reason some of the world’s richest people live in Santa Barbara, replete with beautiful beaches, perfect Mediterranean weather, wineries, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Pop into the Santa Barbara Museum of Art before hitting a few tasting rooms on the Urban Wine Trail, all located within a few blocks of each other. Unwind at the Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, or soak up at the sun at the beach.

Insider Tip: Julienne , in the heart of downtown, serves farm-to-table cuisine (dinner only) in a low-key setting.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Santa Barbara Guide

Near: San Diego

Although it can be hard to tear yourself away from San Diego, it's worth it to take a short drive to Carlsbad, which is famous for its natural springs and world-class golf. For those traveling with children, Carlsbad means one thing: LEGOLAND California . Carlsbad also offers a superb five-mile stretch of beach, and top attractions include the SEA LIFE Aquarium and the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, which was once a cattle farm and now offers four miles of hiking trails that wind past hand-crafted adobe buildings.

Insider Tip: Mineral water was found here in 1882 by Capt. John Frazier, when he was drilling a well for his farm. The Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa , located one block from the beach, is home to Frazier's original drilling site and has a small day spa.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Carlsbad Guide

Whidbey Island

Near: Seattle

For fresh air and even fresher seafood, hop on a ferry to Whidbey Island. Only 45 miles long, the island offers gorgeous natural scenery, with beaches, forests, bluffs, and farms. Famous for its museels, Whidbey is also home to gourmet restaurants as well as art galleries and independent boutiques. Drive around the island or stroll along the beach to see the best Whidbey has to offer.

Insider Tip: Coupeville has the largest mussel farm in America and is also home to Greenbank Farm , the largest producer of loganberries.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Whidbey Island

Near: Portland, OR

Located just 30 miles from Portland, Dundee is the epicenter of Oregon's wine country in the Willamette Valley. The area is famous for its Pinot Noir, and visitors can explore more than 30 wineries in a compact area; some of the best-known wineries here include Cameron , Argyle , and Erath . Dundee is also home to artisanal cheese companies and a microdistillery. You'll find many scenic hiking and biking trails here, perfect for burning off all that wine and cheese.

Insider Tip: Sokol Blosser Vineyard offers a tour of the property on a 50% bio-diesel-powered ATV.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Dundee Guide

Near: Houston

Just an hour from Houston, the barrier island of Galveston makes an ideal beach getaway. Before laying out your towel, explore the town by renting a bicycle or hopping aboard a Duck Tour . Seafood is the star attraction at any restaurant, so get your fill of lobster tacos, crab cakes, and shrimp po'boys. Kids will be amused by the massive Pleasure Pier , which has carnival games and a roller coaster, as well as the Schlitterbahn water park. Don't miss the town's historic homes, such as Moody Mansion  and  Bishop's Palace .

Insider Tip: Apart from its beaches, Galveston is also known for its beautifully preserved Victorian homes.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Houston and Galveston Guide

Bahia Honda State Park

Near: Miami

Located about 126 miles from Miami, Bahia Honda State Park makes for a fun drive along US 1. The park offers some of the best snorkeling in Florida, and lucky visitors might spot a barracuda or stingrays on a guided tour. In addition to its beaches, this 524-acre park boasts sand dunes, mangroves, and lagoons. Visitors can happily spend the day swimming in the warm waters, fishing, or paddling out in a kayak.

Insider Tip: The beach here was named the #1 beach in America by “Dr. Beach” in 1992.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Miami Guide

St. Francisville

Near: New Orleans

To get your fill of graceful antebellum homes and antique shopping, head to St. Francisville. This small town has seven plantation homes that can be toured, including Myrtles Plantation , which is rumored to be haunted, and Greenwood Plantation , built in 1830. Visitors can also spend their time visiting public gardens, hiking, biking, or birdwatching.

Insider Tip: A short drive away is the Angola Louisiana State Penitentiary Museum , which was built on the site of a former plantation home and was the nation's largest maximum-security facility.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's St. Francisville Guide

Near: Phoenix

It's fair to say that Sedona is one of the most beautiful spots in America. This town is famous for its red rocks, mesas, and canyons, so sunset is one of the best times of day to appreciate its majesty. Don't miss Slide Rock State Park, which has a 50-foot natural water slide carved into its riverbed. Sedona is also a great spot for golf, hiking, and spas. In addition, Sedona's boutiques offer plenty of Native American-inspired jewelry and accessories.

Insider Tip: Some people believe that Sedona has a unique energy, which is called a vortex.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Sedona Guide

Death Valley National Park

Near: Las Vegas

Although the drive to Death Valley can be a little far from Las Vegas, it is well worth the 120-mile journey to see the lowest, driest place in North America. Bring plenty of water with you and be prepared for the otherworldly desert landscape, which includes Joshua trees, sand dunes, and eerie silence. Be sure to visit Badwater Basin, which is often the hottest place in the U.S. If you have time, take a scenic drive past Devil's Golf Course and Zabriskie Point.

Insider Tip: Explore the tiny Borax Museum , which is located in an old miners' boardinghouse at the Ranch at Furnace Creek, to learn about this mineral and its importance in the valley.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Las Vegas Guide

Kiawah Island

Near: Charleston

This barrier island is just 25 miles south of Charleston, and offers 10 miles of beaches, 10,000 acres of pine forests, marshes, and magnolia trees. This privately owned island makes for a great beach escape, but also offers plenty of opportunities for tennis and golf; there are five championship golf courses here, and The Ocean Course has hosted the Ryder Cup. To enjoy the natural surroundings, take a kayak tour through the salt marshes; lucky visitors might spot alligators, turtles, and snakes.

Insider Tip: Kiawah is also home to a small bobcat population. Their preferred habitat is located near the marsh edges and secondary sand dunes.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Charleston Guide

Rocky Mountain National Park

Near: Denver

A trip to this national park could result in a moose, elk, or bighorn sheep sighting. Rocky Mountain National Park is just an hour and a half from Denver, and offers a picture-perfect landscape of snowcapped peaks, grassy meadows, and pine forests. Visitors can spend the day hiking (there are more than 355 miles of trails), biking, or horseback riding.

Insider Tip: En route to Denver, stop at Snowy Peaks Winery and Tasting Room , which offers local wines and artisanal foods such as cheese, chocolates, and fruit ciders.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Denver Guide

Narragansett

Near: Providence, RI

A popular weekend escape for locals is Narragansett, but it also makes an ideal day trip to beat the heat. The beach is the main attraction here, and it's one of New England's top surfing destinations. Scarborough State Beach is a popular surfing spot, while Roger W. Wheeler State Beach has calmer waters that appeal to families. Rent a bike or kayak to explore the town, or sign up for a fishing trip to catch your dinner.

Insider Tip: The Towers here were designed by the famed architects McKim, Mead & White and landscaped by Fredrick Olmstead. Today the Towers host cultural performances.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Providence Guide

Anna Maria Island

Near: Tampa

This tiny island, reachable via a causeway from Breadenton (45 miles south of Tampa), offers a slice of old-school Florida. There are no high-rises or chain stores on Anna Maria Island; instead, visitors will find a low-key way of life and pristine beaches. The further north you travel along the seven-mile-long island, the quieter it becomes. Fishing off the Rod and Reel pier is also popular, but small mackerel can be caught by just wading into the ocean.

Insider Tip: Some of the island's best restaurants include the Sign of the Mermaid and Beach Bistro .

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Tampa Guide

Near: Atlanta

This college town is famous for its musical heritage (REM, B-52's), but offers much more than that. Seventy miles from Atlanta, Athens features picture-perfect antebellum mansions, a Victorian-era downtown, and a hot culinary scene. For relaxation, don't miss the State Botanical Garden of Georgia , as well as the recently expanded Georgia Museum of Art . Despite its growth, Athens is still a breeding ground for rock groups and offers plenty of live music venues and microbreweries.

Insider Tip: Both REM and the B-52's got their start at the 40 Watt Club , which still sits in downtown.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Atlanta Guide

Plan, Ready, Go

1 Day in NYC: Must-do’s for First-timers + Interactive Map

Only have one day in New York ? Maximize your visit with my itinerary created especially for NYC first-time visitors . I have visited New York City several times. During my last two trips, I was accompanied by people visiting for the first time.

I recommend spending at least four days in NYC . However, even one day can give you a taste of this top travel destination.

Key Things to Know: Top things to do in NYC for a day

• Essential Stops: Don’t miss the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, or Central Park for a mix of history and iconic landmarks.
• Transportation Tip: Maximize your time by using the subway for faster travel between Manhattan’s attractions.
• Customization: This itinerary is completely customizable to your particular interests and the exact amount of time you have in New York City.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

One day in New York itinerary 

9/11 memorial (and museum).

9/11 Memorial | Closest subway stops: WTC–Cortland St (1) and Cortland Street (R, W)  

Start your day by spending your morning in Lower Manhattan. 

In my opinion, your one-day in NYC itinerary should absolutely include the 9/11 Memorial. It’s one of my favorite free things to do in New York City .   

The terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, which destroyed the Twin Towers, forever changed the city and the United States. In fact, it’s one of the most moving and beautiful memorials that I have ever had the privilege of seeing.

The 9/11 Memorial typically is open to the public all day every day. 

Optional: The 9/11 Memorial Museum is at the same location. Though I haven’t had the privilege of seeing it, I’ve heard great things. There is a charge for admission to the museum.

Statue of Liberty 

Ferry from Manhattan departs from Battery Park | Subway stops: South Ferry Station (1), Whitehall Street (R), Bowling Green (4, 5)  

Your one-day New York City itinerary must include the Statue of Liberty, my absolute favorite place in the city

Buy your tickets ahead of time onlin e, especially if you want to climb up to the crown. When available, those tickets can sell out weeks or even months in advance.    

Even if you don’t want to go up onto the pedestal or the crown of the Statue of Liberty, you can purchase a ticket to enjoy the cruise over to Liberty Island (with great views of both Lady Liberty and Lower Manhattan). You can visit the new museum and walk around the monument’s exterior.

 If you only have a day in New York I recommend skipping a visit to Ellis Island even though it’s included in your ticket. 

More things to do on a day trip to New York City

• Explore NYC with a sightseeing helicopter tour over Manhattan .
• Pay a visit to the top of One World Observatory with this skip-the-line ticket .
• If you’re staying the night in New York, consider this sunset cruise in New York Harbor.

PRO TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

Lunch options: where to eat 

By the time you finish your visit to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll likely be ready for a bite to eat. The Crown Café offers a wide variety of burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Their menu includes vegetarian options as well as several items that can be made gluten-free upon request. 

Battery Park (where you’ll disembark from your cruise to Liberty Island) is a great picnic spot. You can grab a cheap lunch from a food truck or assemble a picnic from a nearby market.

If a restaurant is more what you’re looking for, wander into the Financial District where you’ll find a variety of popular eateries for all budgets. 

Empire State Building 

20 West 34 Street | Subway stop: 34 St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W), 33 St (M)  

Many believe that visiting the Empire State Building is a must on their trip to New York City.

I will admit right now that in all my NYC trips, I’ve only ever admired this iconic structure from the ground.  I do not like heights, nor do I generally pay money to stand atop them. But you who are not afraid of heights can go as high as the 102nd floor. The main observation deck is on the 86th floor.   

Time-saving tip: Upgrade your Empire State Building ticket to get skip-the-line access.

As an alternative, save the Empire State Building for after dinner, or even enjoy dinner at the State Grill and Bar.  

Times Square 

Subway stop: Times Square–42 Street (N, Q, R, S, W, 1, 2, 3, 7)   

You’ve seen it in movies and TV shows. Of all the places to visit in New York City, it’s hard to think of anything else that’s more New York than Times Square. Soak it in, take a few photos, and wander through so you can say you’ve been there (it’s great at night also). Maybe even buy a cheap souvenir T-shirt or stop in at M&M’s World.  

Times Square is just a 15-minute walk from the Empire State Building.  

Rockefeller Center 

Between 49th and 51st Streets between Fifth and Sixth Avenues | Subway stop: 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M), 49 Street (N, R, W)  

A 10-minute walk from Times Square will take you to Rockefeller Center. It’s a New York City landmark that includes 30 Rockefeller Plaza (NBC Studios), Radio City Music Hall, and more.

In addition to some great shopping and dining, you can take a guided tour of Rockefeller Center, go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck , skate at the Rink, and more.     

If you’re feeling snackish, I recommend stopping at Magnolia Bakery for something yummy.  

Grab your Top of the Rock ticket here.

Central Park 

From North 110th Street to Central Park South (59th Street), and from Central Park West (8th Avenue) to 5th Ave | Subway stops: There are several subway stops around the perimeter of the park including 5th Ave/59 Street (N, R, W), 59 Street/Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, 1), Central Park North (2, 3), and 6 stops on the west side of the park.  

Central Park is so quintessentially New York that you absolutely need to make time in your itinerary to see it even if only spending one day in New York.

Now, keep in mind that this park is huge. I mean it. Central Park covers 1.3 square miles (840 acres) of Manhattan. You could easily spend an entire day just exploring this place.  

To start I’d suggest looking at a map of the park and choosing a few things there you want to see. This might be the Central Park Zoo, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, Belvedere Castle, or the Conservatory Water (where you can rent a model boat to sail on the pond).   

The southeast corner of Central Park is just a 15-minute walk from Rockefeller Center. If you want to walk all the way to the Conservatory Water and the Alice in Wonderland Statue, expect a walk of closer to 30 minutes.

Time-saving Tip: Instead of walking to Central Park from Rockefeller Center, jump in a NYC cab.

Interactive map for your one day in New York City itinerary

Click on the yellow pins on the map below to see more information about each stop on your itinerary.

To see this map in your Google account just tap on the little star next to the map name.

Ways to modify this itinerary

With only one day in NYC, there are an incredible number of ways you could spend your time. Here are a few ways you could modify this one-day itinerary to fit your particular interests. It’s important that you get to see the things you want.

• Take the subway to Brooklyn then walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying your view of the Manhattan skyline.
• Enjoy a tour of either or both of two of the premier art museums in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and/or the Museum of Modern Art.
• Explore Greenwich Village, Soho, and other iconic neighborhoods.
• End your day with a Broadway show.

Short half-day itinerary for NYC

Even if you don’t have a full day or 24 hours to spend in New York City, you can still see a few of the major highlights. Here are a few options:

• Focus on one area such as Lower Manhattan, grabbing a view of Brooklyn Bridge, followed by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
• Explore the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center, and then stroll up to Central Park for some more exploring.
• Get the best of New York’s top art museums at The Met, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim.

New York 1-day tours

Want to see the best of New York in a day, but rather leave the planning to someone else? Leave the planning to an expert tour guide.

• Pack the very best of NYC into one day with this highly rate expert guided tour . See New York’s major landmarks in only 6 hours.
• Go beyond Manhattan’s major tourist sites with this tour of Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Harlem, and Coney Island .

Where to stay in New York City

If you’re thinking about spending more than a day in New York, you might be overwhelmed by the many hotel options.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in New York City: 

• Hyatt Place Midtown South (52 West 36th Street): We loved staying at this hotel. It’s just two blocks from the Empire State Building and just around the corner from the 34th Street – Herald Square subway stop. Book Now  
• For a more boutique-style accommodation try Archer Hotel New York (45 West 38th Street). Book Now

How to get around New York City

I say this so often, but I will continue to say it over and over: use your feet and the subway.

I’m serious about the subway. You’ll get where you want to go cheaper than Uber or taxis and of course much faster than walking especially when traveling from one area of Manhattan to another.  You can find subway maps on the MTA website .

Taxis are a fine option for getting around New York City especially if you are in a time crunch or are going someplace that just doesn’t have an easy subway route or a nearby stop.

Final thoughts on one day in New York

There are so many amazing things to do in NYC in a day of course that you can’t possibly see as much as you would like, BUT you can see the best of the best if you have 24 hours in the Big Apple.

From historical monuments to stunning views from the best observatories in the world, you almost can’t go wrong with how you spend your day here.

What do you think everyone should put on their 1-day NYC itinerary?

More articles about New York

• The essential overnight packing list
• Free things to do in NYC
• Must-do things in New York for first-timers
• The top day trips from NYC
• Scenic drives in New York state

Pin this post!  

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Can’t wait great job

Great article, Darcy! You have prepared an amazing one-day itinerary for people vising NYC along with some great tips to commute within the city. Subways are indeed the best way to get around the whole city. However, if the time permits, why not go sailing as well? After seeing the city on foot all day, one can relax on a sailboat and enjoy the skyline. Several companies offer rental for 2-3 hours including sunset cruises overlooking Manhattan. Book beforehand to get the best deals.

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The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Alabama

Jennifer Young

More by this Author

Here in Alabama, there’s no shortage of amazing places to visit. If you’d like to visit several places, but only have one day, we recommend picking a destination and taking a day trip. Listed below are 11 of the best Alabama day trips . You’ll want to experience each one of them.

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For the day trip of a lifetime, you’ll want to visit Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island .

Where are your favorite destinations for day trips in Alabama? Tell us all about your picks. Who knows? You just might see yours featured someday. You can submit ideas to us using this nomination form . We’d love to hear from you, so let us know.

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Where are some beautiful, must-visit places in Alabama?  

Alabama is filled with many beautiful, must-visit places. Three of our favorite places are:

1. Cheaha State Park - Delta, AL

2. Blue Springs State Park - Clio, AL

3. Noccacula Falls Park - Gadsden, AL

Where is Little River Canyon National Preserve?   

Little River Canyon National Preserve is located near Fort Payne, Alabama . It was established in 1992 and spans more than 15,000 acres. It’s a stunning place with a little bit of everything for everyone. From waterfalls and incredible trails to breathtaking overlooks and amazing picnic spots, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Unfortunately, there is no camping allowed in the preserve, but that just means you’ll have to arrive no later than the moment they open and stay until the moment they’re closed. Every year, the preserve offers fee-free admission days, so make sure to look the dates up for the most current year before you go.  

What are some unique Alabama attractions I should add to my bucket list?  

There are many unique attractions located throughout Alabama. Three of our favorite unique attractions are:

1. Ave Maria Grotto - Cullman, AL

2. Rosenbaum House - Florence, AL

3. Unclaimed Baggage Center - Scottsboro, AL

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A practical guide to planning the perfect day trip

Get your fill of adventure and exploration—no overnight stay required

By Archana Ram

There’s a lot to love about the open road: fresh air, incredible sights, connecting with people in a new place. But sometimes life gets in the way, be it a lack of vacation days or kids waiting for you at home. That’s why we love day trips. It packs that sense of wanderlust into a neatly edited one-day excursion. You don’t have to lug a carry-on or figure out how you’ll fit your backpacks, cooler, tent, and sleeping bags into the car.

But just because it’s a single day doesn’t mean some planning isn’t required. With a little foresight, you can make the very most out of a 24-hour getaway, from packing the right provisions to loading your phone with helpful apps. Here’s what you need to know:

How to plan

Consider budget. Cost factors into everything, from where you’ll go to which restaurants you’ll eat at to permits you’ll need to enter national parks. Deciding in advance how much you want to spend—especially when traveling with a group—can help make decisions on where to go and what to buy that much easier. And keep in mind some places (i.e. museums, hot springs, etc.) offer discounts for locals.

Pick your theme. Before you get to the “where,” think about the “what.” Maybe it’s making stops along Route 66 , hiking forest trails, or exploring eerie old resorts. Whatever the theme, stick to one or two to avoid a watered down itinerary. Then, once you’ve got your themes figured out, start making lists of all the top locales that align with them—ideally focusing on places no more than three hours away to maximize trip time.

Limit your areas. Some people fall into the trap of packing too much into a day trip because it’s, well, a day trip. But there’s no point in returning home ragged after running around all over town. Once you’ve picked your destination, try to concentrate on two or three specific  areas. It’ll give you more time to hit the streets, trails, and coastlines, rather than spending all of your time in the car. Remember, it’s about connecting with the place, not getting a superficial scope of things. For example, instead of trying to traverse the whole stretch of Joshua Tree National Park —which can take several hours even without making any significant stops—pick a side, like the western portion, where you’ll find the titular trees (you’ll have extra time to scout the antique shops in town, too!).

What about weather? Do you like the blaring heat? What about getting rained on? These factors can help whittle down options for places and timing. But remember, if you don’t mind putting up with some less-than-perfect conditions, you could be rewarded with fewer crowds. But crowds aside, always be aware of weather conditions and safety.

Examine your car. You want to make the most of your getaway without any car troubles sucking up precious time. Before hitting the road, take the time to ensure your car is armed with a full tank of gas, oil, jumper cables, and flat tire fixes—whether that’s a jack and spare or the number for roadside assistance. And if you’re driving in winter conditions, make sure you have the proper cold weather provisions .

Check schedules. Maybe you’re visiting a museum. Or touring an iconic landmark. If your attraction comes with a timetable, double check to make sure it’ll be open both the day and times you want to visit.

What to pack

Charger. Admit it—your phone is basically another appendage, and on a day trip you’ll likely use it for navigation, music, and finding places to stop. That all takes a lot of juice, so bring either a USB cable to charge within your car or a remote battery pack.

Phone mount. Looking down at the GPS while driving is dangerous. There are plenty of dashboard options out there, some of which even have wireless and solar charging capabilities.

Bring cash . Stash some dollar bills in your wallet and put that ATM fee toward your tip at a roadside diner or a unique find at an antique shop. Many local, mom-and-pop establishments don’t accept credit cards or any form of digital payment.

Flashlight. We know it’s a “day” trip, but should you have car trouble, drop your keys in the grass, or need to see exactly where to pick up the dog poop, you’ll be thankful you have a light at the end of the day. A headlamp is an even easier, allowing you to go hands-free.

Snacks. In case chips and cookies from the local service station don’t sound appealing, oranges, bananas, nuts, and peanut butter sandwiches hold up well. And if you pack enough food, you might even consider subbing those as a lunch-on-the-go so you can make time for other activities.

SPF. Whether it’s 80 degrees and sunny or sub-zero and snowing, if you’re outside, you should always think about protecting your skin. And if you plan to swim in the ocean, opt for a reef-friendly sunscreen .

Water. This can actually be an easy one to forget. Aim for at least one reusable bottle per person. (And don’t forget about the dog !)

Cooler. Larger ones are ideal for beaches and parks. Cooler backpacks are a better idea if you plan to hike or bike.

Towels. They come in handy for everything from picnicking to hitting the beach to cleaning up after muddy treks.

When to ditch the plans

There’s merit in planning things ahead of time. It can mean less traffic, fewer disappointments if something is closed, and avoiding unnecessary purchases. But we all know that spontaneity is what makes a road trip truly memorable. So don’t be afraid to take that local’s recommendation or drive the scenic detour or spend your whole day in a place that was just supposed to be a pitstop. Those off-the-itinerary moments are what make hopping in a car and traveling to a new destination so fulfilling. You’re in control, so seize the day (trip).

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Your Trip to Washington, D.C.: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

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Washington, D.C. Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

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48-Hour Itinerary

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One Day Tour Itinerary in Washington, DC

How to explore the nation's capital in one day

It is impossible to see all of Washington DC in one day, but a day trip can be fun, rewarding, and even romantic . Here are our suggestions for how to get the most out of a first-time visit. This itinerary is designed to be a general interest tour. For a comprehensive exploration of the city, check out some of the city’s historic neighborhoods and its many world-class museums and other landmarks.

Note: Some attractions require advanced planning and tickets. ​Be sure to plan ahead, determine what you really want to see and set those sights as priorities. For example, you will need to book your tour of the Capitol Building and your tour of the Memorials in advance.

Arrive Early 

The most popular attractions in Washington DC are least crowded early in the morning. To get the most out of your day, get an early start and you will not have to waste time waiting in lines. Be aware that traffic in Washington DC is very congested and getting in to the city on a weekday or a busy weekend morning is challenging for residents and more difficult for tourists who do not know their way around. Take public transportation and you will avoid the hassle of finding a place to park. 

Begin Your One Day Tour on Capitol Hill

Arrive early at the Capitol Visitor Center (Hours are Monday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) and learn about the history of the U.S. government. The main entrance is located at the East Plaza between Constitution and Independence Avenues. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and see the Hall of Columns, the rotunda, and the old Supreme Court chambers. From the visitors’ gallery, you can watch bills being debated, votes being counted, and speeches being given. Tours of the Capitol are free; however, tour passes are required. Book your tour in advance . The Visitor Center has an exhibition gallery, two orientation theaters, an expansive cafeteria, two gift shops, and restrooms. Tours of the Capitol begin with a 13-minute orientation film and last approximately one hour.

Go to the Smithsonian

After your tour of the Capitol, head to the National Mall . The distance from one end of the Mall to the other is about two miles. It is walkable, however, you probably want to reserve your energy for the day, so riding the Metro is a good way to get around. From the Capitol, find the Capitol South Metro station and travel to the Smithsonian station. The Metro stop is located in the center of the Mall, so when you arrive take some time to enjoy the view. You will see the Capitol to the East and the Washington Monument to the West.

The Smithsonian is comprised of 17 museums. Since you have limited time to tour the city, I would suggest that you pick just one museum to explore, either the National Museum of Natural History or the National Museum of American History . Both museums are located across the Mall (to the north of the Smithsonian Metro Station) There is so much to see and so little time—grab a museum map and spend an hour or two exploring the exhibits. At the Natural History Museum, take a look at the Hope Diamond and other gems and minerals, examine the massive fossil collection, visit the 23,000-square-foot Ocean Hall, see a life-size replica of a North Atlantic whale and a 1,500-gallon-tank display of coral reef. At the American History Museum view the original Star-Spangled Banner, Helen Keller's watch; and historic and cultural touchstones of American history with more than 100 objects, including the rarely displayed walking stick used by Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln’s gold pocket watch, Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves and a fragment of Plymouth Rock.

You could easily waste a lot of time and money on lunch. The museums have cafeterias, but they get busy and are pricey. You may want to bring a picnic lunch or buy a hot dog from a street vendor. However, your best bet is to get off the Mall. If you head north on 12 th Street towards Pennsylvania Avenue , you will find a variety of places to dine. There are multiple places to grab food in the Ronald Reagan International Trade Building. Central Michel Richard (1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW) is a pricier option, but owned by one of Washington’s most renowned chefs. There are also affordable options nearby such as Subway and Quiznos.

Take a Peek at the White House

After lunch, walk west on Pennsylvania Avenue and you will come to President’s Park and the White House . Take some photos and enjoy a view of the White House grounds. The seven-acre public park across the street is a popular site for political protests and a good place to people watch.

Visit the National Memorials

The monuments and memorials are some of Washington DC’s greatest historic landmarks and are truly spectacular to visit. If you want to go up to the top of the Washington Monument , you will have to plan ahead and reserve a ticket in advance. The memorials are very spread out ( see a map ) and the best way to see them all is on a guided tour. Afternoon tours of the memorials are available by Pedicab, Bike or Segway. You should book a tour in advance. If you take your own walking tour of the memorials, note that the Lincoln Memorial , the Vietnam War Memorial , Korean War Memorial and the World War II Memorial are located within a reasonable walk of each other. Likewise, the Jefferson Memorial , the FDR Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Memorial are located near one another on the Tidal Basin .

Dinner in Georgetown

If you have time and energy to spend the evening in Georgetown, take the DC Circulator Bus from Dupont Circle or Union Station or take a taxi. Georgetown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Washington, DC, and is a vibrant community with upscale shops, bars, and restaurants along its cobblestone streets. M Street and Wisconsin Avenue are the two main arteries with plenty of good places to enjoy happy hour and dinner. You may also take a walk to Washington Harbour to enjoy the Potomac Waterfront views and popular outdoor dining spots.

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Perfect 1 Day in San Antonio Day Trip Itinerary (must-use!)

San Antonio is a vibrant and historic city located in south-central Texas.

Known for its historic elements, stunning riverside setting, and rich culture, a day trip to San Antonio is sure to quench your thirst for adventure.

You’ll never be bored when you visit this gem of a city.

If you’re looking for the perfect itinerary for a day trip to San Antonio, you’ve come to the right place!

Or if you’re looking for the perfect weekend San Antonio itinerary , we’ve got you covered as well.

In this day trip to San Antonio itinerary, we’ve packed in an entire day’s worth of exciting activities that you won’t want to miss out on.

Continue reading to uncover your must-use guide to taking a day trip to San Antonio.

Once you’re done with your unforgettable trip, be sure to put these clever San Antonio Instagram captions to good use!

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Hey! Want more awesome San Antonio guides? Check these out!

• 19 Best Things to Do in San Antonio
• 31 Fantastic Day Trips from San Antonio
• 35 Romantic San Antonio Date Ideas

Looking for more one day itineraries in your favorite Texas cities? Check these out!

• One Day in Houston, Texas Itinerary (must-use!)
• How to have an awesome day in Austin, Texas
• Ultimate One Day in Dallas Itinerary

Why Should You Take a Day Trip to San Antonio?

San Antonio is the seventh-largest city in the United States.

This unique city is bursting at the seams with cultural influence and historic attractions that pull in thousands of visitors each year.

The Alamo is of particular interest to history buffs, but you won’t want to miss the Riverwalk or the stunning cultural elements that you will find around the area.

The city, which is popular with tourists due to its mild climate and abundance of sunshine, also has a burgeoning bar and restaurant scene.

When is The Best Time of Year to Take a Day Trip to San Antonio?

While a day trip to San Antonio is a great idea any time of year, the best time of year to visit San Antonio is undoubtedly in the fall!

Whether you’re planning a trip to San Antonio for business or pleasure, September and October are ideal months for a day trip to the city.

Remember that temperatures can get quite hot as early as March, so keep an eye on the weather before you wallow in all of San Antonio’s attractions.

Transportation Around San Antonio

It’s easy to get around San Antonio by bus, trolley, bike, or foot. Many of the city’s most popular destinations are walkable from downtown.

The San Antonio Trolley’s 12 lines cover 108 miles of track and 150 bus stops, transporting more than 23 million passengers annually.

Since the late ‘90s, San Antonio has been recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community, with more than 150 miles of bike-friendly shared-use paths.

To put the cherry on top, the city is getting smarter about mobility with a $20 million Smart Corridor pilot project along downtown streets.

San Antonio is a great city for biking.

Since the city is so flat and you’re never too far from a bike rack, you can conveniently bike to many attractions and points of interest around town.

The city’s neighborhoods, downtown, and parks are connected by a network of bike trails and greenways.

With that said, some places in San Antonio will require that you travel by car.

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

What To Pack for a San Antonio Day Trip

Packing for a trip to San Antonio depends on how long you plan to be in the city.

If it’s for the day, you should pack the essentials: sunscreen , sunglasses , comfortable shoes, and a positive attitude.

Start with these items, and you’ll be ready for anything!

Even in the summer, the morning and evening can be cool or even cold.

To be comfortable, bring layers.

An umbrella is also probably a good idea – it’s possible rain may hit you even in the summer!

If you’re embarking on a day trip to San Antonio, you will also need some shoes with good traction like these ones .

San Antonio is a walking city, and you’ll be doing plenty of it.

San Antonio Tour Ideas for 1 Day

If you’d prefer to have someone else show you around, check out these San Antonio tours that you could go on, or continue reading our itinerary that you can follow yourself!

• Best of San Antonio Sightseeing Tour – this driving tour and river cruise tour takes you past San Antonio’s best sights on a 4 hour tour. From the Alamo to the Missions to the Tower of Americas, this is the our best pick for a guided San Antonio tour. Check prices and availability here.
• San Antonio Missions Tour – interested in the history of the San Antonio Missions? This incredible guided tour will take you through and to these beautiful buildings and expert guides will help you understand the founding of San Antonio and its early history. Check prices and availability here.
• Segway Tour of Historic San Antonio – with two wheels under your feet and a helmet on your head, you’ll discover San Antonio’s best historic spots on this thrilling Segway tour that covers more ground than you can on foot. Check prices and availability here.

Morning Itinerary in San Antonio

There is nothing quite like waking up to the sound of the soothing bustle of San Antonio.

Although this is one of the largest cities in the nation, many people will find that it has a peaceful aroma with plenty of natural settings to enjoy during your trip.

To start your morning in San Antonio off the right way, here are a few activities for you to enjoy.

Breakfast at La Panadería Bakery & Cafe

Fuel up with some breakfast before you embark on a day packed full of exciting Texas-style adventures.

La Panadería Bakery & Café serves up hot breakfast all day long.

Here you will find flavors that encompass the mezcla of cultures that is present in San Antonio Texas.

This restaurant specializes in fresh bread from scratch.

However, you will also find some other iconic breakfast favorites on their menu.

Here, you can get a taste of modern takes on classic favorites such as their tequila almond croissant, flavored sweet bread, breakfast tortas, and more!

They also provide a variety of lunch favorites including salads, Cuban sandwiches, and savory stuffed croissants.

You can sit down to eat your breakfast inside their charming café or order your food to go and dine in the peaceful setting of a nearby park.

With such a variety of menu items, there is sure to be something for everyone at La Panadería Bakery & Café.

Hit Up Their Famous River Walk

One of the most iconic attractions in San Antonio, Texas is its stunning river walk.

This beautiful stretch of riverfront property boasts a wide breadth of diverse attractions that are sure to delight you.

There are so many things to do in San Antonio, Texas, and the Riverwalk is an excellent place to start.

Designed to give the city a more picturesque feel, the system of bridges, walkways, and waterways has had a tremendous impact on the city’s economy and tourism with over 14 million visitors each year!

The San Antonio River Walk begins near the Spanish Governor’s Palace in downtown San Antonio and runs parallel to the river for over 10 miles.

It is lined with over 50 restaurants, shops, cafes, and hotels that provide a wonderful experience for both visitors and locals alike.

Check out the Alamo

An iconic landmark in the city of San Antonio, Texas is the Alamo .

This large stone mission is a revered site that has been visited by millions of people over the last several years.

The site is best known for the Battle of the Alamo which occurred in 1836.

The Alamo is free to visit and open every day, giving you plenty of options as to when you can go.

If you’re in town, be sure to stop by.

The mission is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and is located on Alamo Plaza at the corner of Market Street and South Alamo Street.

Regardless of if you’re a history buff or not, you will be mesmerized by the powerful beauty of the Alamo.

Afternoon Itinerary in San Antonio

Afternoons in San Antonio are known to be warm and sunny.

This is when the sun is at its peak.

For that reason, it is a good idea to find a shaded area to enjoy a nice frozen treat or cool off with a dip in a nearby body of water.

With that said, the city is also prone to rainy afternoons, so it is a good idea to have some indoor activities planned, just in case.

Regardless of what the weather is like during your visit, here are some unique afternoon experiences that you will only find in San Antonio, Texas.

Cool Off with Ice Cream from Kilwins

Located just steps away from the Alamo awaits a hidden gem of a chocolate shop.

Here you will find a plethora of sweet treats including freshly made fudge, hand-scooped ice cream, sea-salt caramels, and more!

You will recognize this old-fashioned candy shop by the giant moose mascot that can often be found standing outside to greet the guests.

When you step inside the doors, you will be greeted by an endless array of delectable goodies that will leave your mouth watering.

Their display features hundreds of unique treats that rotate on a seasonal basis.

However, you will be able to order your favorite classic recipes all year round.

Stop in to try their delicious ice cream favorites or order a selection of your favorite chocolates and caramels to save for later.

The choice is yours!

Go Shopping at the Historic Market Square

If you love to explore flea markets and grow your collection of handcrafted goods, you will adore taking a trip to San Antonio’s Historic Market Square .

With a strong Mexican influence, this is the perfect location to get familiar with the rich culture of San Antonio.

Here you will find a full presentation of over 100 shops with their finest goods on display.

You can even gather up a selection of fresh produce in their farmer’s market building.

With so much to explore, this is one of the largest Mexican markets that is north of the border.

In addition to the pop-up shops, you can find a variety of Mexican-owned restaurants and businesses scattered throughout the Historic Market square.

This is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat, enjoy live music, or shop for some vibrant, hand-crafted goods.

Explore The Japanese Tea Gardens

Another must-see location in San Antonio is the Japanese Tea Gardens.

These serene gardens are the perfect location for relaxing after a busy day exploring San Antonio.

Within the breathtaking gardens, you will uncover incredible plant life, mellow walking trails, lily ponds, and more.

The cobblestone bridges and whimsical paths look as though they were pulled directly out of a storybook.

This area definitely boasts a different aura than the rest of downtown San Antonio with its soothing, East Asian aesthetic.

The park is free and open daily, so anyone can enjoy its serene beauty.

Evening Itinerary in San Antonio

Evenings in San Antonio are known for their exciting nightlife scenes and fine dining experiences.

There is also plenty of live music to enjoy.

No matter what sorts of activities you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered!

Here is your evening itinerary for a day trip in San Antonio, Texas.

Visit Hopscotch Immersive Art Gallery

The Hopscotch Immersive Art Gallery puts a modern twist on traditional versions of art.

Here you will have the chance to interact with art and become part of the exhibit yourself.

Featuring exhibits from more than 40 of the top artists from all over the world, there is sure to be something that stands out to you in this unique museum.

The goal of the gallery is to prompt joy and awe in all of their guests, which they accomplish quite seamlessly.

Within the immersive art gallery, you will gain access to a bar and lounge area where you can kick back and enjoy an evening of drinks and live music with your friends.

There’s even a food truck on their patio where you can purchase local favorites.

The Hopscotch Immersive Art Gallery is one experience in San Antonio that you won’t want to miss!

Dinner at Biga on The Banks

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind fine dining experience in San Antonio, look no further than Biga on The Banks.

This top-of-the-line establishment brings you creative dishes from top chef and owner, Bruce Auden.

With dishes influenced by a variety of cultures throughout the world, this dining experience is sure to bring you a unique blend of flavors unlike any other.

Their menu rotates daily, so you will want to check what is cooking on the day of your visit ahead of time.

Their menu typically features Texas favorites with an international twist.

Keep in mind that you will need to make a reservation through their website in order to ensure your dining experience at Biga on the Banks.

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The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

Experience everything that SoCal has to offer with these day trip from Los Angeles to stunning nearby beaches, wineries and small towns

L.A. is great and all, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. If you only have one day to spare, consider one of these quick day trips from Los Angeles to some amazing nearby destinations. Luckily, living in L.A. means it’s an easy (well, depending on traffic) and often  scenic drive  to SoCal’s best beaches , small towns, wineries and gorgeous desert landscapes—all within three hours of the city. Oddly enough, taking advantage of the ease with which you can get  out of L.A. is easily one of the best things to do  in L.A.

From wine tasting in Santa Barbara and  vintage hunting in Palm Springs to  camping  in Joshua Tree or feeling the sand between your toes in San Diego, you’re sure to find a short trip (as opposed to a longer road trip ) worth taking on this list. 

RECOMMENDED: The best weekend getaways from L.A.

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Top day trips from Los Angeles

1.  Coronado

2 hrs by car There’s a reason Coronado has topped lists of the country’s best beaches: Its wide shores never feel overcrowded, the soft, fine-grained sand is easily walkable and the weather is practically perfect. Just a quick ferry ride or bridge drive from San Diego, this wealthy peninsula has the feel of a resort town with the amenities that come from being near a major city.

The beachfront grounds of the regal, red-roofed Hotel del Coronado  are a must-visit, even if you can’t foot its pricey room reservations. Back in town, stop into hole-in-the-wall diner Clayton’s Coffee Shop for a quick meal or MooTime Creamery for frozen treats. Coronado is also home to a sizable naval base, and while you can’t exactly visit, you can spot fighter jets coming in for landings and submarines surfacing off the coast.  —Michael Juliano

2.  Ojai

1 hr 20 mins by car Ojai is a not-so-hidden gem close enough to L.A. for a day trip, but with a unique, relaxed feel that’s worlds away from busy city life. Start early with a decadent, hearty breakfast at Bonnie Lu’s , then stroll the town’s quaint main street; the antique shopping is great here, but relatively new school shops like Summer Camp are also worth a stop.

Tour an olive farm or a citrus grove, then grab an organic lunch at Farmer & the Cook . Alternatively, grab a a bite to go and explore the nearby trails in Los Padres National Forest , just north of town. If the weather is right, swimming holes abound along the Sespe Creek.

Back in civilization, check out Bart’s Books , an outdoor bookstore housed in an actual house (sans roof), or head up to Meditation Mount   (reservations required)  for incredible views, especially the famed “pink moment” at sunset.

Swing back to the center of town to explore its many wine tasting rooms, or grab a beer and a bite at Ojai Beverage Company . Chief’s Peak, the bar at Ojai Rancho Inn (where you should stay if your trip runs long), is a hip spot for an after-dinner drink; you’ll find more old-timers—and regular live music—at Deer Lodge down the road.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

3.  Santa Barbara

1 hr 50 mins by car Santa Barbara is a scenic and worthy vacation destination regardless of your starting point, but we’re fortunate enough to have relatively easy access (granted that the L.A. traffic gods are working in our favor).

Stearns Wharf is a go-to spot to see the Pacific, and nearby is State Street, filled with tons of shops and people-watching opportunities. And the Wharf isn’t the only place to see the water: Butterfly Beach, a relatively private spot, is situated next to the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel and faces west for ideal sunset-watching views.

Grab lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria —famous for being one of Julia Child’s favorite eateries. The lines tend to be on the ridiculous side, but it’s worth the wait for novelty’s sake alone.

If you’re traveling with family, spend a few hours at the Santa Barbara Zoo   (reservations required) . Otherwise, grab a glass of Pinot Noir at one of the many tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail   (hours and status vary by winery) ; the spots are located in downtown Santa Barbara, steps from the Amtrak station, and source grapes from local vineyards.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

4.  Laguna Beach

1 hr by car Forget what you know from a certain unfortunate MTV reality show: Laguna Beach is an easygoing oceanfront city graced with lush vegetation, tidepools and a picturesque rocky coastline.

Main Beach is the spot of choice for downtown sunbathing, but you’ll find pristine, less crowded beaches at tide pool-filled Treasure Island, camper-friendly Crystal Cove or hidden Victoria Beach with its weathered, castle-like turret.

Walk the city’s downtown area to find a mix of shops, galleries and restaurants; many eateries cater to the well heeled, so we suggest bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on a bench at the hilltop Heisler Park. Do, however, follow the smell of fresh waffle cones onto the enchanting Peppertree Lane for a scoop from Gelato Paradiso .

It’s not just about the beach here; you can explore the reservation-only Hortense Miller Garden  or thousands of acres of hillsides and canyons to find hiking trails, nature centers and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center   (closed through fall 2024) , a sea lion rescue. Summertime typically sees the arrival of two festival favorites: Pageant of the Masters , a live stage interpretation of classical paintings, and Sawdust Art Festival , an open-air artisan market that transforms into a Christmas village in late fall. There’s only one road in and out from the 5, so bring some patience during rush hour—alternatively, take the scenic route and follow Coast Highway through Newport Beach.  —Michael Juliano

5.  Solvang

2 hrs by car After Danish immigrants grew tired of Midwestern winters, they began to make their way west and eventually settled in the pastoral Santa Ynez Valley. Though you won’t find many Danes in Solvang anymore, you will find wooden windmills, rural houses and a replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower. The post-WWII structures are as touristy as they are charming; walk around town to find an assortment of Christmas shops, Hans Christian Andersen and Little Mermaid keepsakes, and sort-of-Danish bakeries.

Solvang’s downtown area is dotted with breweries and pancake cottages, including local standbys Solvang Brewing Company   and Paula’s Pancake House —and an increasingly impressive new culinary scene . For a bit of history on the area, make sure to stop by the humble Elverhøj Museum .

For a more offbeat adventure, head to the outskirts of town to  OstrichLand , which feels like the Jurassic Park of the ostrich and emu world. If you’re visiting in early January, make sure to schedule your trip around the annual Christmas tree bonfire . —Michael Juliano

6.  Balboa Island

1 hr by car, 5 min ferry

Visitors to Balboa Island in Newport Beach can enter the man-made island by driving onto it via Marine Avenue, but it’s far easier—and more fun—to park your car on the Balboa Peninsula and take the Balboa Island Ferry for a quick and scenic five-minute trip across the water.

The first order of business: getting your hands on one of the island’s famed frozen bananas (make the Bluth family proud). Choose from rivals Sugar N Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop; both claim to be the originators of the chocolate-covered frozen treat.

Take a jaunt around the 1.6-mile boardwalk surrounding the island, passing by multi-million dollar homes and streets named after gems, before strolling down Marine Avenue, the island’s main artery. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants ( Wilma’s Patio is a staple), boutique shops, art galleries and the Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society .

Of course, there’s plenty to do out on the water, too: kayaking, parasailing, paddle boarding and the like. If you’ve got kiddos tagging along, the Balboa Fun Zone on the peninsula hosts a Ferris wheel and plenty of arcade games.  —Erin Kuschner

Discover the best things to do in Newport Beach

7.  Los Alamos

2 hrs 20 mins by car Once a major stagecoach stop, this small, easy-to-miss town looks stuck in the past with its Old West style—but behind the facade are trendy treasures waiting to be discovered. Inside Bob’s Well Bread Bakery is a hip, stylish setup serving artisan breads—including gluten free options—croissants, sandwiches and more. Exploring antique shops and art galleries can easily fill a day here, just be sure to call ahead, as some places are only open on weekends.

A big draw of the Los Alamos area is its wine tasting—this is Santa Barbara County, after all—which can be done at Bedford Winery  and other local tasting rooms. Before you leave town, make a pit stop at  1880 Union , an event space with an authentic stagecoach saloon, or spend the night at the Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast . For being a single stoplight town (we haven’t actually counted, but you get it), there’s a bevy of delicious places to eat, such as  Full of Life Flatbread (known for its occasional A-list diners) and the destination-worthy Bell’s .  —Stephanie Morino

8.  San Juan Capistrano

1 hr 30 min by car, 1 hr 25 min by train A piece of California history and a quaint old town make San Juan Capistrano an off-the-beaten-path day trip with a lot of charm and a little learning. If you take Amtrak there, the train will drop you off right where you want to be—just a couple of blocks from a good cup of coffee at Hidden House Coffee .

From there, you can tour Mission San Juan Capistrano , founded in 1776 and arguably one of the mission chain’s prettiest links. The mission used to be known as a migratory destination for swallows in February, but the famous birds have been spotty in recent years. If you have your heart set on getting up close with some animals, check out Zoomars   (reservations recommended) , a petting zoo for kids of all ages (read: adults love it, too). It’s a historic ranch where you can also pan for gold like the California miners did. You’re also near Los Rios Historic District , which has some historic homes and museums that are perfect for a walking tour.

When you get hungry, you have several options: Heritage Barbecue serves remarkable Texas-style smoked meats,  Ramos House is a romantic spot known for great food and huge Bloody Marys on the weekends and  Five Vines is a nearby wine bar with snacks and sandwiches. If you want to catch a later train, head over to Swallow’s Inn , the local dive bar, where bras hang from the ceiling and bands play late into the night. You’re still within stumbling distance of the train station.  —Sara Fay

9.  Oak Glen

1 hr 30 mins by car

Though you can visit Oak Glen year-round, the best time to head to this picturesque town to the east is September through November. The five-mile loop of orchards, ranches, shops and restaurants is a necessity for any New England transplant looking for fall foliage, and the town’s most popular activity— apple picking —is a nice alternative to canvassing L.A.’s farmers’ markets.

Many of the orchards, like Willowbrook Apple Farm  (opens Labor Day weekend), offer a cider press to make your own cider, which you can pair with a cinnamon roll or apple dumpling from Apple Annie’s Restaurant & Bakery . Stop by the Turquoise Pueblo  on your way back to L.A. for some beautiful handmade Native American jewelry.  —Erin Kuschner

10.  Solana Beach

2 hrs by car, or 2 hrs by train

If you want to spend a day in San Diego, you can either try to go big (the San Diego Zoo! Balboa Park!  Padres game! All in one day!) or go small-town and spend a chill day in a cool oceanfront neighborhood. The beach towns north of San Diego—no, we’re not talking about Pacific Beach—are the stuff of the Beach Boys lyrics.

In Solana Beach, you’ll find laid-back vibes and beaches that aren’t completely overrun. It’s easy to get there from L.A. via Amtrak, and it’s a perfect way to day-trip because all the spots you’ll want to hit are within walking distance of the station.

Start at  the Naked Cafe for a beach-y brunch, then, either head down to the beach at Fletcher Cove or cruise along the Cedros Design District for window shopping, brewery hopping and people watching. There’s also a mix of cute boutiques, surf shops, restaurants, taco spots and bars along South Coast Highway. If it’s racing season, the Del Mar Racetrack  isn’t far—it would be either a long walk or a short car ride.

Before you catch the train back up to L.A., you have several good options for dinner near the tracks: Station Sushi is a solid locals’ spot for classic and creative rolls, Bangkok Bay  has some of the best Thai food we’ve ever eaten and Pizza Port is known for being a last-slice-and-beer-before-Amtrak place. It’s directly across a pedestrian crosswalk from the train station, and has been slinging pies and pouring pints for three decades.  —Sara Fay

If the San Diego Zoo caught your eye, book a ticket and spend a day with the animals.

11.  Temecula

When hoofing it to Napa and Sonoma isn’t an option, Temecula is your next best destination for a day of wine tasting. Before sampling the grapes, stop by quaint Old Town Temecula, where you can pay a visit to the Temecula Valley Museum  for a historical walking tour.

Then it’s down to business; the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country includes more than 30 wineries, which you can bounce between at your own leisure (don’t drink and drive, folks!) or take a guided tour from one of the many wine tour companies in the area. Taste your way through the 70-acre Wilson Creek Winery and the red-focused Monte De Oro Winery   before heading to Maurice Car’rie Vineyard  for an educated tasting and a loaf of the vineyard’s famous sourdough bread, oozing with brie.

Just down the road, Magical Adventure Balloon Rides encapsulates another popular Temecula activity: riding in a hot air balloon. We can’t think of a better way to end your day in Temecula than by sailing over the town’s vineyards at sunset with a glass of Champagne in hand. —Erin Kuschner

12.  Palm Springs

2 hrs by car Known for its ultra-fancy resorts and legacy of celebrity residents, Palm Springs is worth at least a weekend, if you can afford the time. Still, if you’re limited to 24 hours, make the desert city a choose-your-own-adventure day trip.

Start with brunch at Cheeky’s , and trust us that it’s worth the wait. If you’re in the mood to exercise, check out Indian Canyons , made up of three separate canyons (Palm, Murray and Andreas) that each offer hiking trails and fantastic views of the diverse landscape. Another of the best ways to see Palm Springs is on the Aerial Tramway , which helps visitors escape the heat of the desert with a scenic ride to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains.

If relaxation is your goal, shop at the outlets in Cabazon, or just get a massage and sit by the pool. The Palm Springs Art Museum  is small but displays works from incredible artists including Picasso and Warhol. For dinner, try reservations at Sandfish  for superb sushi and Japanese whiskey.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs

13.  Big Bear

2 hrs by car; access may be limited during the winter This mountain town is home to some of L.A.’s closest ski slopes in winter, but don’t discount a summertime trip, when a dip in a mountain lake is the best way to keep cool. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to tour the water, and keep an eye out for the white-domed Big Bear Solar Observatory perched at the water’s edge on the north shore. The hiking here is also plentiful and offers some amazing views.

If you’re a bit more adventurous, stop by Bear Valley Bikes and rent a mountain bike; there are fire roads for beginners and lots of technical, downhill single track for more seasoned riders.

Back in town, check out the Bowling Barn  and the Alpine Slide , both of which are a blast with or without kids in tow. For a drink with the locals, head to karaoke night (which is pretty much every night) at Murray’s Saloon , the town’s self-proclaimed “five star hole in the wall.”  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Big Bear

14.  Joshua Tree

2 hrs 15 mins by car You’ll find Joshua Tree National Park on our shortlist for perfect day trips, road trips and weekend getaways from L.A. That’s for good reason: the magical desert spot—with its gnarled, ancient namesake trees, picturesque cacti and giant boulders—should be on every traveler’s bucket list, no matter how much time they have to spare.

Watch rock climbers scale mini-mountains at  Hidden Valley campground (first-come, first-served) or try some scrambling yourself at Jumbo Rocks . If you visit in spring, head south to Pinto Basin for a chance to see colorful wildflowers in bloom.

On the drive out, plan for a pit stop at the Cabazon exit, where you can explore the famed dinosaur park from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (and even, for a fee, climb inside the three-story T. Rex for a photo op in his mouth). Shop for cacti at multiple roadside marts on Twentynine Palms Highway, or hang a left at Pioneertown Road for a stop at Pappy & Harriet’s , which boasts a ghost town, small inn and great live music.

Another worthwhile detour is Landers, home of countless alien sightings and new-age sound baths at the  Integratron   (reservations required) . In the town of Joshua Tree, take your pick from a few tasty restaurants, including Crossroads Cafe   to rub elbows with locals. There are some good thrift shops around here, as well as the kind of quirky public art; be sure to check out the World Famous Crochet Museum , as well as prolific artist Andrea Zittel’s A-Z West tour.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

15.  Salton Sea and Slab City

3 hrs by car This day trip isn’t for everyone; but if you’re a fan of things decrepit, forgotten and way off the beaten path, head south to Bombay Beach at the Salton Sea. A popular vacation spot in the ’50s and ’60s, these days all that’s left of the once-booming seaside town are photo-worthy ruins and a lot of dead fish.

The Ski Inn remains; stop by for a drink or a greasy bite and decorate a dollar bill to hang on the wall or ceiling. Continue on to Niland, made famous by artist Leonard Knight’s Salvation Mountain , a giant folk art monument made from adobe, straw and thousands of gallons of paint (you may remember it from Into the Wild ). Beyond is Slab City, a former marine training base that now exists as a squat for campers, transients and desert dwellers who’ve created a community complete with a library, skate park and live music stage, “the Range.” If you’re respectful and friendly, folks may share their hot spring and swimming hole secrets, so bring a bathing suit—or do as the locals do and go in your birthday suit.  —Kate Wertheimer

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The Perfect Day Trip to San Diego: How to Spend Just One Day in San Diego

last Updated: May 10, 2023 california San Diego Southern California

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Planning a day trip to San Diego in the near future? Here’s everything you need to know and more! From when to go, what to bring, how to get there, and all my favorite things to do if all you’ve got is just one day in San Diego.

There’s a reason San Diego’s called ‘America’s Finest City’. It’s got sandy beaches, a slower pace of life than nearby Orange County and Los Angeles , and almost guaranteed sun.

There’s sea caves and rugged cliffs to explore, the cutest sea lions known to man, the postcard-perfect resort city of Coronado, and you can even go snorkeling with leopard sharks (true story). And 125+ other things to do in San Diego , but that’s for another time!

The first time I visited the city, I only had enough time to spend a measly one day in San Diego. We were visiting from nearby San Clemente on a much longer Southern California road trip , so figured, why not make the short drive down! And boy did we not plan out our day trip to San Diego correctly. After driving down we honestly didn’t even know where to begin! Whoops!

But since that first failed trip, I’ve been to San Diego a few times and more than made up for it! Once for a girl’s trip full of tons of tacos and San Diego photo spots , and another to watch my husband run the San Diego Half Marathon! So now I’ve got lots more info to share about how I’d spend a perfect day trip to San Diego.

Because sometimes you’ve only got time for one day in San Diego, but don’t worry — you can still eat plenty of tacos and hang at the beach!

→ Have more time in San Diego? Lucky duck! Check out the best way to spend a long weekend (3 days) in San Diego !

Day Trip to San Diego At-A-Glance

• Morning : Coffee, Brunch, La Jolla
• Afternoon : Balboa Park, Old Town or Coronado
• Night : Sunset at Sunset Cliffs, dinner in Little Italy, drinks in Gaslamp

Day Trip to San Diego Logistics

When to Spend One Day in San Diego (Weather)

San Diego’s got near-perfect weather so there’s no horrible time to visit, making the city a year-round destination. The sun shines over 265 days a year, and the average weather is a balmy 70 degrees F. And it hardly ever rains (and when it does, it typically doesn’t last all day). 

It’s basically endless summer over here. And I’m all for it. Sounds pretty perfect to me. Why’d we choose to live in foggy San Francisco again…?

BUT here’s the thing — if you’re looking for beach time, stay away from the area in May and June. Like other parts of the California coast ( Pescadero , Half Moon Bay , Big Sur , etc), San Diego experiences a few months where it’s mostly gray and gloomy with mostly overcast skies. 

Us local Californians call it May-Gray, June-Gloom, and it’s a real thing! And we hate it! Although it’s way easier to capture all the photo spots in San Diego when there’s no sun (because no shadows!).

How to Get to San Diego 

San Diego is as far south as you can get in California — It’s only about 20 miles from the Mexican border! 

Thankfully, despite it’s super southern location, you can easily take a day trip to San Diego from plenty of other major spots in SoCal.

As I mentioned earlier, we were spending a week in San Clemente and decided to hop down the I-5 for just one (but very lovely) day in San Diego. 

Just remember — California is HUGE. Like, San Francisco is almost a 9 hour drive away. I say this to remind you that a day trip to San Diego won’t be possible from everywhere in California.

I wouldn’t recommend planning a day trip to San Diego if you’re further than 3 hours away or so. Plan to visit another time! And plus, there’ll likely be at least a little bit of that horrendous SoCal traffic (no surprise there)!

Here’s a few popular spots in Southern California and their approximate driving times/distance to San Diego:

• San Clemente : ~1 hour, 60 miles
• Huntington Beach : ~1 ½ hours, 95 miles
• Santa Monica/Venice Beach : ~2 hours, 135 miles
• Los Angeles : ~2 hours, 120 miles
• Palm Springs : ~2 ½ hours, 140 miles
• Joshua Tree : ~2 ½ hours, 160 miles

There’s also the Pacific Surfliner Amtrak Train which is a great option for a day trip to San Diego from SoCal if you don’t feel like driving. AND you won’t have to worry about finding parking — double win! 

While the train starts up north in San Luis Obispo, it takes about 8-9 hours from SLO, so obviously not suitable for a day trip. The train from Santa Barbara still takes about 6 hours, so again, not possible as a day trip! 

Coming from OC or LA? It takes about 2 hours and 3 hours, respectively (phew — easily done in just a day). And just for your reference, there’s stops in Los Angeles, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and San Juan Capistrano. Just make sure to factor in getting to the train station and parking your car.

If you wake up early enough you can get to San Diego before 10!

How to Get Around During Your Day Trip to San Diego

The best way to get around during your day trip to San Diego? Well, that kinda depends on how you’re planning to get to San Diego. 

Driving : If you’re driving into the city from nearby, you’ve obviously got your car. But with that comes the possibility of difficult parking (although we’re always able to find a spot eventually — just gotta be patient)! And thankfully if you’re just doing a short day trip to San Diego, I assume you won’t be staying overnight. Meaning no exorbitant overnight hotel parking fees! Which usually cost on average at $30-$50 per night — more money for tacos!

Ride Shares : If you’re taking the train, you’ll need to rely on ride shares like Uber and Lyft, and/or public transportation. Unfortunately, since the city is spread out the cost of Ubers do add up. But if you’ve only got one day in San Diego and aren’t sure when you’ll be back, plan ahead and take the Uber if you can. 

One way to combat this — carefully plan out your day trip to San Diego! This way you aren’t zigzagging back and forth across the city!

Public Transit: While San Diego doesn’t have extensive public transit like say, New York City does, I was surprised to learn there’s actually a few trolley lines and bus routes . And the city does look rather well-connected. 

You’ll undoubtedly need to walk a bunch, but from looking at the maps, you can definitely get around downtown San Diego quite easily. But remember, you’ll wanna leave downtown for sure! Plan to use Uber for those routes!

Scooters : San Diego seems to have a thing for scooters (I mean, the weather’s nearly perfect for them). I don’t trust myself on those things, so can’t give you first-hand experience on scooting around San Diego. 

But there’s tons of them and people use them, so they must work pretty well! Just remember the city is pretty spread out, so you may just wanna just use scooters to go the shorter distances (since you can’t of course scoot on the highway).

Hop On Hop Off Bus: Like so many other cities, San Diego’s got a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus . Although it’s not actually a bus, it’s a trolley! How much fun is that?! Sure, it’s super touristy, but if you don’t have a car for your one day in San Diego and want a super easy way to get around, it can definitely come in handy. And considering it gives you unlimited transportation for the entire day, it’s not a bad deal either. 

Is One Day in San Diego Enough?

Yes… but not really, haha. It’s enough to give you a small sampling of what this thriving area’s got to offer, but you’ll 100% wanna stay longer and/or come back. 

But really though, if all you’ve got time for is a day trip to San Diego, opt for the day. It’s better than no time at all!

Sometimes one day in San Diego’s all you got! Maybe you’re taking a much longer California coast road trip down the PCH and ending in SD, or using it as a stopover en route to elsewhere on the west coast. 

Honestly, the city’s got way too much to squeeze into just one day. I really recommend at least 3 days in San Diego , but alas, we don’t always have time for that! There’s too many museums, beaches, unique neighborhoods, historical sites, and foodie and photo spots for a quick 24 hours or less. Trust me — making this one day in San Diego itinerary was difficult! I had to leave off so many of my favorite spots! BUT there’s always next time!

→ Here for longer? Check out this massive bucket list of things to do in San Diego , full of over 125+ things to see and do, and most importantly, eat!

Tips to Maximize Your Day Trip to San Diego

• Start early! If you’re spending the night before your one day in San Diego, wake up and get out exploring at a reasonable hour! If you’re driving down or taking the train, set your alarm so you get to San Diego before 10am!
• Pay for parking if need be. If you’ve only got one day, you don’t wanna spend half your time looking for parking. Yes, paying for parking sucks (I get it — I’d rather save that cash for tacos), but sometimes you just gotta suck it up. Time is money, people!

• Plan out your food stops in advance. It’s hard to have a bad meal in San Diego, but if you’re an indecisive person like me, the choices may overwhelm you. Do your research ahead of time so you don’t waste time deciding where to eat.
• If you are staying overnight, stay in downtown San Diego . You’ll be close to almost everything and centrally located. Plus, the nightlifes great! You can drag your boozy self right to bed!
• The city is spread out — plan for this. Unlike San Francisco, San Diego covers a lot of miles. You’ll wanna give yourself time to get from spot to spot. So cram it all in, but don’t go absolutely overboard. 
• Skip the San Diego Zoo on your day trip to San Diego. Save it for next time when you can give it the time it deserves. On that note — always skip SeaWorld no matter how long you’ve got in the city (we don’t agree with a lot of their unethical practices and questionable animal encounter experiences).

Planning Your One Day in San Diego Itinerary

If you’ve only got one day in San Diego, you wanna make sure you plan your time out right! The city is pretty spread out with plenty of different neighborhoods, so I suggest having a well-thought out plan… this is not the time to just wing it!

You definitely wanna start your day out early in order to see as much as possible. If you wanna skip a few things in the one day San Diego itinerary below, feel free to sleep in a tad, but not for too long! Make the most of your time here!

Just remember — I’ve planned out a pretty jam-packed day trip to San Diego, so if you want a more leisurely day and don’t feel like rushing around, pick and choose your favorites! I tried to incorporate the main highlights into this one day in San Diego, including some beach time, cultural experiences, and of course some food!

No matter what, you’ll wanna come back — one day in San Diego is never enough, I can promise you that!

So let’s get started with our day trip to San Diego — Full of all the iconic spots in the city. The perfect one day in San Diego itinerary, coming right up!

Day Trip to San Diego Itinerary

One day in san diego: morning.

Stop #1: Breakfast/Brunch and Exploring in La Jolla

Start your day off bright and early with a coffee and some breakfast in La Jolla! Remember, this is a busy day in San Diego, so you’ll wanna make sure you’re fueled up for all the fun. Unless you wanna allocate a while for brunch (hey, I get it — you wanna stay time efficient on our day trip to San Diego), I’d pick a spot that won’t take all day.

And if you’re driving, it’ll be easier to find parking in La Jolla earlier in the morning than mid-day.

Here’s a few options for a quick breakfast/brunch in La Jolla:

• Parakeet Cafe: Super trendy but pretty low-key. More of a grab and go and seat yourself kinda place. I wanna try one of their toasts next time I’m in the area — the almond butter and avocado toasts look absolutely delicious. Oh and that cacao waffle. Mmmm….
• Wayfarer Bread & Pastry: Another quick grab and go spot, home to the best sourdough and croissants in town. Expect to find lots of yummy artisan pastries like apple hazelnut croissants and cranberry orange scones in a breezy, beachy cafe!
• Sugar and Scribe: A quintessential La Jolla hangout home of Food Network Champion Chef Maeve (Holiday Baking Championship, anyone?!). Think nutella french toast, fluffy egg whites, and traditional Irish soda bread. And plus, the dog creamer pitchers are so cute!

Need some caffeine? 

• Better Buzz Coffee La Jolla: Skip the Starbucks and head to Better Buzz, a trendy coffee spot with blue starburst tiles and a massive neon BUZZ sign. Try a Mint Infused Iced Coffee — so delicious!
• Coffee Cup San Diego: Nice little place with outdoor seating and great coffee. What else do you need?!
• Bird Rock Coffee Roasters: So many fun and creative lattes here!  Try the gold digger (with honey and cinnamon) or the trophy wife (macadamia nut) over ice. Or they’ve got single origin pour-overs if you’re not in the mood for so much milk.

After you’re full, plan to explore La Jolla for the rest of the morning, one of my favorite areas in all of San Diego! The area’s absolutely gorgeous and known for its rugged coastline, leopard sharks and harbor seals (yes, really!), and tons of street art. You could really spend your entire one day in San Diego just here in La Jolla, but you’ll just need to come back next time! 

Unfortunately, with only a single day in San Diego I honestly don’t think you have time for snorkeling or kayaking — two of La Jolla’s best activities. They both take up a lot of time, especially if there’s other spots you wanna check out on your day trip to San Diego. Plus, you’ll be all gross and wet afterwards, meaning you’ll need to shower and change… yeah, way too much time. 

But don’t get too upset, there’s still lots to do in La Jolla on land!

If I only had a few hours, here’s exactly what I’d do: 

Watch the seals and sea lions at the Children’s Pool: If there’s one thing you do in La Jolla during your day trip to San Diego, make it this. The Children’s Pool is where you’ll see (and hear!) those famous harbor seals and sea lions you’ve probably been hearing all about! As iconic as it gets here in San Diego!

While you are technically allowed to swim in the water here, it’s highly discouraged . As always, keep a safe distance to any wildlife you see to protect not only yourself, but the animals as well. We want them to feel welcome here in San Diego for years and years to come!

Walk a bit north on Coast Blvd and you’ll pass by Seal Rock, to see, you guessed it — more seals basking on the rocks! We enjoyed watching them flop around so much we accidentally spent over an hour here, whoops!

La Jolla Cove: How does a small, picturesque cove surrounded by cliffs and palm trees sound?! That’s La Jolla Cove for ya!  You’ll find plenty of people sunbathing and swimming here on the little beach when it’s warm out, and casually staring out at the beautiful Pacific if it’s too chilly.

Dip your toes in the water and relish in that sweet, sweet San Diego sun. Just don’t get too close to the seals — they tend to hang out here on occasion.

Coastal Walk Trail: Stretch those legs! The Coastal Walk Trail in La Jolla is beautiful and easy, stretching from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores. It’s just about a half mile long so it won’t take too long at all. 

You can either start at the Cave Store or at the small cul-de-sac along Prospect St. (with a small parking lot for about 10 cars). You’ll even find a secret swing over here (if you know where to look). 

Sunny Jim Cave: Not a fan of kayaking but still wanna see a famous La Jolla cave? I get it — I’m way too clumsy to spend any time on a kayak. Make sure you visit the Sunny Jim Cave instead — it’s the only sea cave in California accessible by land. 

You enter by walking through a 100-year-old tunnel inside The Cave Store and heading down a few flights of old stairs. And voila, the cave appears! Just be careful, the stairway is old and can be pretty slippery, so wear proper shoes.

And the best part — the whole experience takes less than 20 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time.

Go Mural Hunting: La Jolla is home to a whole slew of murals perfect for your IG feed; check out this map to find your favorites. I loved the piano fingers and abstract art in the parking lot but both were hard to photograph considering they’re pretty high up. 

But one you need to see?! Roy McMakin’s Favorite Color mural! It’s easily the most popular one and has been around since 2010. And omg so colorful! A must on your day trip to San Diego if you’re looking for the best photo spots in SD!

Before you leave La Jolla I recommend grabbing some of the best tacos you’ve ever had in your life (yes, I said it) at The Taco Stand. Sure, there might be a line, but well worth the additional time!

Stop #2: It’s Taco Time

You can’t leave San Diego without stuffing a few tacos in your mouth. Well, I mean you could, but what kinda life is that?! Since San Diego is so close to the Mexican border, you can just imagine how authentic that greasy goodness is. I swear, we ate at about 5 or 6 different taco jaunts on our 3 days in San Diego last time. 

And yes, they’re that good. Almost as good as the tacos we recently ate in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico .

Tacos are a staple of San Diego, so thankfully finding some great ones aren’t hard to do. If you wanna stay in the La Jolla area, there’s a bunch of great taco restaurants and stands.

A few options for ya:

• The Taco Stand La Jolla: Super casual and fun. There’ll probably be a (long) line depending on when you come, but the tacos are some of the best I’ve ever had. Worth it?… yes! Definitely grab a few al pastor tacos (obviously), but try the churros and carne asada fries too! If I had to pick my favorite taco spot in La Jolla, this would be it!
• Puesto La Jolla: This one’s eclectic and more upscale, with a unique take on artisanal tacos in a bright and breezy brick space. I just love how it’s owned and operated by a Mexican American family. Don’t miss the mango shrimp ceviche and a mango margarita! A tad on the expensive side with tacos at $7-$9 a pop. 
• City Tacos : With locations around the city, this spot is popular for a reason. Try the fried mahi-mahi tacos on homemade corn tortillas, a Mexicali taco (or two), elote (grilled Mexican street corn), and the surf and turf taco. All creative and modern. 

If you don’t mind going out of your way (a tiny bit), you gotta check out Las Cuatro Milpas — an authentic, old-school spot in Barrio Logan. The real deal my friends. We got 2 huge plates of no-frills Mexican food and homemade tortillas for just over $10. 

Day Trip to San Diego: Afternoon

Stop #3: Balboa Park

No visit to San Diego is complete without at least a little time spent in Balboa Park! While you can easily spend a whole day here checking out all the museums and gardens, I recommend picking and choosing a few main things you wanna check out. 

Why?! Because there’s no way you’ll get to everything in Balboa Park with just a day in San Diego — there’s 17 museums here! So you really gotta pick and choose your favorites, especially if you wanna make it to the next stop below (your choice)! 

In all honesty, I’d skip the museums and zoo on your day trip to San Diego, and focus on other activities in the park. You’d be rushing through them anyways, so may as well leave them for when you’ve got a bit more time. And by now you already know you wanna come back…

Thankfully, everything is within walking distance so you can tick off a bunch in only a few hours. But whatever you do, walk up and down the Prado, the main pedestrian street running through the park, admiring the ornate baroque architecture. It’s a true cultural oasis and oh so gorgeous. Stop and look up at Casa del Prado — it’s my favorite!

With a limited amount of time, here’s what I’d do (expect this to all take approximately 2-3 hours if you don’t linger too long in one spot):

Spreckels Organ Pavilion: The largest outdoor pipe organ in the world is housed here in Balboa Park! The 5,000 pipes range in length from the size of a pencil to a whopping 32 feet. And if you happen to get lucky, you may even see a free organ concert (occuring every Sunday at 2pm). We watched an organ rehearsal and every note was absolutely mesmerizing! I especially loved the ornate architecture — so fun to photograph!

Alcazar Garden: Boxwood hedges in a walled courtyard. Flowers blooming year round. Colorful tiled fountains and stunning architecture. I totally felt like I was wandering through a romantic garden of the Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain! A quick little stop but definitely worthy of a few minutes.

Spanish Village Art Center: This was my all-time favorite spot in all of Balboa Park, and one of my favorite photo spots in San Diego ! Strolling along the quaint artist studios and colorful courtyard is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon — and plus, you’re guaranteed to get some great photos for the ‘gram! Even the Spanish-style buildings and floor tiles are painted in bright colors, depicting a charming old village in Spain — so fun! 

Palm Canyon Trail: Kinda a hidden spot in Balboa Park, but definitely not to be missed if you’re a sucker for palm trees like I am! There’s over 450 palms in nearly 2 acres — a true tropical oasis right in the middle of the park! It’s 2 miles but you can always walk a portion of it and turn back around like we typically do if you’re tight on time. Make sure to check out the huge fig tree at the entrance of the trail — it’s absolutely wild!

Lily Pond and Botanical Garden: Two icons of Balboa Park and a must on any day trip to San Diego. Definitely spend a few minutes inside the botanical garden — not only are there an impressive amount of ferns and orchids and palm trees (more than 2,000!) under the domed ceiling, but it’s completely free to enter!  

It’s a dramatic building with a jungle-y interior — I kinda felt like I was walking through the rainforests of Olympic National Park or in Fern Canyon for a hot second! Then take some photos outside near the Lily Pond — it’s absolutely gorgeous on a warm, sunny day.

Stop #4: Old Town or Coronado Island

Depending on how long you wandered around Balboa Park, and depending what time sunset is, you may have time to check out another spot in San Diego. My two choices: Old Town -or- Coronado Island.

Choose Old Town if you wanna experience the cultural birthplace of California, and choose Coronado Island if you want some true beach time!

Old Town is a historic neighborhood in San Diego (created back in 1769) that was considered to be the birthplace of California! Head over to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park to explore what life was like back then — there’s preserved and replicated buildings, museum exhibits, and all around historical entertainment. The last time we were there it was almost Day of the Dead — and what gorgeous altars of remembrance and exhibits there were!

Dip some candles at Toby’s Candle Shop, make a beeline for the barrels of taffy at Cousin’s Candy Shop, watch the daily mariachi band and Folklorico dancing, and check out the Whaley House Museum (one of the most famous haunted houses in the United States).

And whatever you do, don’t miss all the homemade artisan goods and pottery in the shops! They pay homage to Mexican culture and heritage in the early 1800s. I loved browsing all the fun arts and crafts the vendors had to offer, especially the Mexican ceramics. 

OH! And don’t leave without trying a piping hot homemade tortilla from the free tortilla stand (just please be kind and leave a tip). They are absolutely delicious and perfect if you’re a tad hungry. 

Coronado 

The second you get to Coronado Island you’ll see just how charming and cute it is! Such a quaint coastal village and such a different feel than other parts of the city and a must on any day trip to San Diego.

Coronado’s got a gentle surf, sparkling beaches, and a charming main street. There’s a reason it’s known as the crown jewel of San Diego.

Whatever you do, don’t miss Hotel Del. With its distinctive red Victorian roof, picture perfect views of the beach and Pacific, and delicious cocktails (who am I kidding, you knew that was coming), Hotel Del shouldn’t be missed. 

You can wander around, but if you’re here for some beach time, you’re in luck. Although it certainly looks like a resort town, the beach is public and it’s GORGEOUS. To no surprise, it’s commonly said to be one of the best beaches in America (once you see the seemingly-endless white sand complete with gold sparkles you’ll easily see why).

Rent an iconic red and white striped chaise lounge and spend an hour or two just relaxing at Coronado Beach. You earned it!

One Day in San Diego: Night

Stop #5: Sunset Cliffs

After a busy afternoon, it’s time to watch a famous San Diego sunset. And the best spot for that — Sunset Cliffs Natural Park of course. Dramatic sandstone cliffs. Untouched vegetation. Stunning ocean vistas. Sounds like the perfect night to me.

Psst — it can get quite windy so bring along a sweater. It gets pretty crowded but the area’s large enough to accommodate everyone. You’ll definitely wanna keep your camera handy — I couldn’t stop taking pictures! Be especially careful as there’s zero guardrails along the sandstone cliffs and some of them are unstable.

Make sure to check times for sunset and aim to get there at least 30 minutes before sun down in order to find a parking spot and get comfy. Lots of people bring a blanket and some snacks and really get into it! I’ve even watched a proposal here!

Stop #6: Little Italy for Dinner and Dessert

Once you’re done exploring for the day, make your way over to Little Italy for dinner, dessert, and drinks.

There’s a whole bunch of authentic Italian restaurants in this area, but I always find myself going back to Monello for fresh cheese wheel pasta. Did you hear that — pasta made right in a wheel of cheese, and yes, it’s that good.

Here’s some other popular spots that I’m itching to try out:

• Mona Lisa Italian Foods: Lasagna. Need I say more? There’s also pizza and old-world Italian cooking, plus a deli with imported prosciutto and cheese if you want something more low-key.
• Davanti Enoteca: A large patio with shareable Italian cuisine. Everyone raves about the cacio e pepe, cheese focaccia, and the bloody mary towers.
• Ironside Fish & Oyster: Expect super fresh oysters and a seafood focused menu in a quirky renovated warehouse. If you get here before happy hour ends, you’ll find $1 oysters available Monday through Friday from 3-5pm. Definitely taking my husband here next time.
• Camino Riviera: Not in the mood for Italian food? No worries — this buzzy spot has seasonal Mexican food and a fun outdoor patio.

But no matter what you end up having for dinner, leave some room for Extraordinary Desserts! I’ve been here every single time I visited, even when we were only in San Diego for a day! 

We recently tried some of their fall favorites, including the apple crostini, and OMG. The chocolate cake is super delectable too. Always opt for a chocolate chip cookie as well (they’re the perfect after dinner treat; although no judgement if you save it for the next morning — what I always seem to do). 

Stop #7: Little Italy and/or Gaslamp Quarter for Drinks!

Still have some energy? Stay in Little Italy or head on over to the Gaslamp Quarter to check out the craft cocktail scene! There’s really something for everyone over here — eclectic wine bars, nightclubs with rooftop views, hidden speakeasies, and grungy sports bars. 

Here’s some spots to check out:

• Craft and Commerce: One of our favorite cocktail bars meets gastropubs in Little Italy! Just note some of their decor includes taxidermy, so stay away if that’s not your jam. (Little Italy)
• Wolfie’s Carousel Bar: New and unique — it’s fun to go once for the novelty of the spinning carousel bar but the drink menu is kinda small so I wouldn’t stay here all night.  I recommend making a reservation in advance to bypass the potentially long line out front. (Little Italy)

• Trailer Park After Dark: A dive bar serving American comfort food and beers in a funky trailer park-themed atmosphere. Such a fun vibe. (Gaslamp Quarter)
• The Nolen: Expect skyline views and a communal fire pit in this swanky rooftop bar in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego. They even have old fashioneds on tap which are surprisingly good. (Gaslamp Quarter)
• Noble Experiment: Hidden speakeasy anyone?! It’s swanky and secret, tucked behind a secret door in The Neighborhood. You tell them what spirits you like and the bartender whips you something right up! (Gaslamp Quarter)

Other options for your night in San Diego 

Not feeling the San Diego nighttime drinking scene? Take a San Diego City Lights Night Tour instead! The city transforms at night, with beautiful lighting effects in Balboa Park, bright lights and Victorian architecture in the Gaslamp Quarter, and the illuminated San Diego city skyline from Coronado. Read reviews and book your city lights tour here!

And since it’s basically my job to give you a ton of options, if you want something a bit off-beat and different, be sure to check out the historic Gaslamp Quarter walking tour . You’ll learn about the scandals, debauchery, brothels, and more in what used to be San Diego’s red light district. Check out the aptly named Brothels, Bites, and Booze Tour , and make sure to come hungry (maybe have a light dinner), because the food stops are quite filling! Read reviews and book your Gaslamp walking tour here.

Hope this helps you plan out your perfect day trip to San Diego! Are you visiting the city anytime soon?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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The Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip: How to Spend One Day

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TL;DR: The perfect Catalina Island day trip begins with a ferry ride to the scenic town of Avalon, where you can take golf carts to nearby viewpoints, snorkel in the clear waters, kayak along the coves, and indulge in fresh lobster rolls—all for around $200-$300 per person.

Catalina Island boasts 75 square miles of hilly terrain, beautiful beaches, kelp forests, and one of California’s most popular multi-day treks – the 38.5-mile Trans-Catalina Trail.

The island also happens to be one of the best day trips to do in Southern California since it’s only 22 miles off the coast and only about an hour by ferry from Los Angeles and Orange County.

It wasn’t until a couple of years ago that I finally made the trip to Santa Catalina Island myself. It had always been on my radar, as many of the islands off the coast of California have been for years, but I just never made it happen.

That is until I found myself with an extra day after a trip to Disneyland . I quickly decided to finally experience Catalina Island once I realized how easy it was to get to the island.

Based on that trip, this is my full itinerary for the perfect Catalina Island day trip for anyone who is also looking for a unique and easy day trip.

By the end of it, you’ll know exactly what to expect with a day trip to Catalina Island, how to get there, and what to do to soak up the best that this island has to offer.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Catalina Island

Unless you know someone who has a sailboat or helicopter, the easiest way to get to Catalina Island is by ferry. There are two boat companies that take passengers to the island – Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer .

The vast majority of people visiting the island will take the high-speed ferry with Catalina Express since it leaves from more locations, including San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point and travels to both Avalon and Two Harbors.

The Catalina Flyer, on the other hand, only leaves from Newport Beach.

Here are the options for doing a trip to Catalina Island from the mainland.

From Los Angeles

Long Beach is the most popular and active port for traveling to Catalina by ferry. The ferries that leave from the Long Beach Port take about an hour and only travel to Avalon.

During the off-season, there are only two departures and returns per day. This is when I went so I just had to be mindful of ferry times to make sure I didn’t miss the only late afternoon ferry back to the island.

You also have to squeeze in a bit more if you’re trying to do a day trip during the off-season since the earliest ferry leaves around 7:00 am from Long Beach and starts its return from Avalon at 4:15 pm.

During the summer, you’ll find up to 6-9 departures and returns per day so you can be more flexible with your day trip to Catalina Island. Shoulder seasons can fluctuate so you’ll need to check the ferry schedules ahead of time before planning your trip.

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San Pedro has fewer departures and returns but it’s also the only port with ferries that go to Two Harbors as well as Avalon. And similar to the Long Beach Port, the number of ferries leaving and returning per day depends on the time of year.

In the off-season, it’s usually only a couple of departures and returns per day and that goes up to around 5-6 to Avalon and 7-9 to Two Harbors in the high season.

The ferry from San Pedro to Avalon takes about an hour and 15 minutes and the ferry from San Pedro to Two Harbors takes about two hours.

Book the Catalina Express from Long Beach or San Pedro here .

From Orange County

If you’re coming from Orange County or San Diego, you’ll probably want to leave from Dana Point. The ferries from Dana Point travel to Avalon and there are only a couple of departures and returns year-round.

The ferry from Dana Point takes about an hour and a half one way to get to Catalina Island.

Newport Beach

The ferry that leaves from Newport Beach is run by the Catalina Flyer instead of the Catalina Express. There is only one departure and return per day from this port and it only travels to Avalon. The journey takes just over an hour.

How Much Does the Catalina Ferry Cost?

Round trip tickets for the Catalina Express are $74.50 for adults, $67.50 for seniors 55+, and $59 for children under 12. You can book them here . 

Round trip tickets for the Catalina Flyer are $70 for adults, $65 for seniors 60+, and $53 for children 12 and under.

Visiting Avalon vs Two Harbors

To keep things simple, I put together this Catalina day trip itinerary based on starting your day in Avalon. There are a few reasons for this.

First off, most of the ferries that travel to Catalina Island only go to Avalon and back (with the exception of the San Pedro ferries), so you have a lot more choices if you’re doing a day trip to Avalon.

Secondly, there’s a lot more to do in and around downtown Avalon compared to the more remote Two Harbors. So if you only have a day, Avalon is the better option for more things to do.

And lastly, it’s quicker to get to Avalon. Avalon takes anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half to get to depending on which port you’re leaving from, whereas Two Harbors takes two hours to travel to.

If you only have a day, you’ll want as much time as possible on the island so I recommend sticking to Avalon.

The Perfect Catalina Island Day Trip Itinerary: 6 Things to do on Catalina Island

Walk around town & shop the local boutiques.

Estimated Time: 30 min – 1 hour

When you first arrive in the city of Avalon, I’d recommend spending some time getting acquainted with the cute downtown area and exploring the local boutiques.

Also, if you plan to do an afternoon tour but haven’t already booked one ahead of time, the dock area is where you should do that once you arrive.

Stop by the Catalina Island Coffee & Cookie Co for a fresh cup of coffee and maybe a bite to eat if you haven’t had breakfast yet. I’d highly recommend trying one of their delicious cinnamon rolls (if there are any left).

Then simply walk around the small area that makes up downtown Avalon. Poke your head into shops and find some souvenirs that you might want to pick up later before you hop on the ferry back to the mainland.

If you’re a photographer, this is also a great time to get some initial shots of Catalina Island and its scenic harbor with its famous casino in the background.

Check Out the Best Viewpoints & Go for a Short Hike

Estimated time: 2-3 hours

Once you’re caffeinated, it’s time to explore the island by foot and golf cart.

There are hardly any cars on Catalina Island, except for those that belong to the few thousand people who actually live on the island. This means most visitors get around the island by golf cart.

You’ll find rentals near the dock area by the hour. I’d recommend going with Catalina Golf Cart Rentals .

They also have a map for a 12-mile scenic route that takes about an hour to complete which is a good place to start if it’s your first time on the island.

Note: For rentals, you have to be at least 21 years old and provide a valid driver’s license. Renting a golf cart from Catalina Golf Cart Rentals also requires a $50 deposit and it’s cash-only but there’s a nearby ATM.

Rentals run at about $50/hour and there’s usually a deal where if you buy two hours you’ll get the third hour free.

Once you have your rental sorted, make sure to include these stops while exploring the island:

• Buena Vista Point
• Lover’s Cove Scenic Vista
• 3 Palms Scenic Overlook (this one is probably my favorite view on Catalina Island)
• Ocean Scenic Overlook
• Wrigley Botanical Garden

And if you’re up for a short hike, head up to the Catalina Island Conservancy near the Wrigley Botanical Garden and tackle one of these hikes:

• Garden to Sky Trail (2.8 miles)
• Trans-Catalina Trail to Lone Tree Viewpoint (3 miles)
• Hermit Gulch Trail (3.4 miles)

Hit the Water

Estimated Time: 2 hours

You can’t visit Catalina Island and not do at least one water activity while you’re in town.

The surrounding waters around the island are full of diverse marine life, kelp forests, and clear waters that are some of the warmest in Southern California.

It’s no surprise then that it’s a great spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, or exploring the water through a boat ride, kayaking , or standup paddleboarding.

Here are a few activities to choose from:

• Snorkeling – You can either do a guided tour if you’re not familiar with snorkeling or simply rent a snorkel and go by yourself. A few of the best spots for snorkeling near Avalon include Casino Point Dive Park/Avalon Dive Park (there are snorkel rentals near the park) and Lover’s Cove (a more secluded spot so you should pick up snorkels in Avalon before heading here). If you want to do a tour, I’d recommend going with Snorkeling Catalina .

• Scuba diving – You can book a scuba tour with Catalina Scuba (they offer tours for both certified divers and those without any experience).
• Kayaking or SUPing – If you prefer to explore above the water, renting a kayak or standup paddleboard (or going on a tour) is an ideal option. Since the water is usually very clear around the shores of Catalina, you can still see a lot from above the water. You can find kayak or SUP rentals from Wet Spot Rentals (they also have snorkel rentals) or Descanso Beach Ocean Sports offers tours and rentals.
• Dolphin & whale watching – If you’re not a fan of getting wet but still want to experience the marine life around Catalina Island, you can go on a two-hour dolphin and whale watching tour with Catalina Diver Supply .
• Jet skiing – If you’re just looking for a bit of fun out on the water, you can rent jet skis from Catalina Jet Ski .
• Parasailing – If you’re looking for a thrilling water activity, one of the best ways to see the beauty of Catalina Island is from above. California Parasail offers 800-foot flights for 1, 2, and 3 people.

Note: Another very popular water activity on Catalina is the island’s semi-submersible submarine and glass-bottom boat tours. However, many of these tours feed fish to get them to swim close to the boat. These regular feedings can actually be detrimental to the local fish population as it teaches them to not search for their own food. I personally don’t recommend any tour that interacts with wildlife in a way that negatively changes their natural behavior, which is why I don’t recommend these activities if you’re going to Catalina Island. And, in general, I find these tours to be overly touristy and not the best way to experience the local sea life in its natural habitat.

Relax on the Beach

Estimated time: 1-2 hours

Even though there are a lot of adventure activities you can do, it’s good to give yourself at least an hour or two to just relax on Catalina island’s beautiful beaches as well.

One of the best places to go where you can also grab a cocktail to sip out on the beach is Descanso Beach Club .

Located just past the casino, this private beach costs $2 for beach access but is the nicest beach within walking distance to downtown Avalon.

You can also rent private cabanas at Descanso if you’re with a group or choose to simply enjoy the sand with a beach towel. It’s the perfect place to relax and grab a drink or bite to eat in the off-season or during the week.

During the high season, it turns into a party beach with rotating DJs on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, so don’t expect a peaceful beach setting if you’re visiting the island on a summer weekend.

You can also rent kayaks , standup paddleboards, and sign up for the zip lining tour , rope course , and rock climbing wall at Descanso Beach if you want to fit multiple activities into one area.

If you’re not a fan of paying for beach access, you can also lay out on the small beach near the ferry dock, called Middle Beach (although it doesn’t have quite the same ambiance).

Eat Fresh Lobster Rolls

Estimated time: 45 minutes – 1 hour

Santa Catalina Island isn’t exactly known for its foodie scene, but it’s still surrounded by the ocean so if you’re a fan of seafood you should make time to grab some delicious lobster rolls before you get back on the ferry.

I went to the Lobster Trap while I was in town and although the service could’ve been friendlier, their lobster rolls were a great way to end my time on Catalina Island before making my way back to the mainland.

Optional Addition: Go on a Local Tour

Estimated Time: 1-3 hours

If you get through everything on this Catalina Island itinerary, you probably won’t have time to do a guided tour on the island as well.

However, if you choose to extend your time or want to switch out one of the above activities with a tour, there are plenty of options on the island. Here are some of the best tours on Catalina Island:

• Catalina Casino Tour – One of the most popular tours on Catalina Island is a walking tour through the historic art deco casino. There are two tours you can take: Discover the Casino Tour and Catalina Casino Behind the Scenes Tour . The 45-minute Discover the Casino Tour is the perfect intro to the history of the Casino and it allows you to tour the main highlights, including Avalon Theatre. The 90-minute Behind the Scenes Tour goes into more detail and focuses on areas of the casino that were once closed to the public for over 70 years.
• Jeep Tours – If you’re looking to explore more of the island than what your golf cart can handle, I’d recommend hopping on a two-hour jeep tour. This eco-friendly tour with Catalina Island Company gives you a good overview of the local wildlife around the island and even some bison spotting.
• Zip Lining Tour – As mentioned above, there’s a zip lining tour you can sign up for at Descanso Beach. If you’re looking for some thrills, this is an easy experience to fit into your time at the beach if you have a couple of hours to spare. On the tour, you’re taken 600 feet above the beach where you’ll fly across the canyon and through some eucalyptus trees at around 35 MPH. Along the zip line course, you’ll enjoy some scenic ocean views and learn more about the flora and fauna that can be found on Catalina Island. And, if you’re looking for more activities, there’s also a rock climbing wall and ropes course at Descanso Beach.
• Ghost Tours – If you’re staying overnight, looking for a quirky tour, and you enjoy ghost stories, doing a Haunted Catalina ghost tour can be a fun way to spend an hour. Tours start at 7 pm nightly from the base of the Green Pier in downtown Avalon.

Quick History of Catalina Island

Santa Catalina Island’s history goes back to 8,000 years when Indigenous people from the Gabrieliño/Tongva tribe first inhabited the island.

Over the years, it’s been visited by smugglers, pirates, the Union army, missionaries, celebrities, and, of course, travelers.

For a good chunk of the 19th century, the island was owned by James Lick, a real estate investor and at one point the wealthiest man in California.

He eventually sold the island to the Banning Brothers, who started the Santa Catalina Island Company in the 1890s and turned the island into the resort destination it is today.

In the early 1900s, William Wrigley Jr., who had a controlling interest in the Santa Catalina Island Company, started developing the island even more into a resort destination.

He was the one who built the Catalina Casino and he even made Avalon the Spring Training home for the Chicago Cubs until 1951. His descendants still own most of the Santa Catalina Island Company today.

For a short stint during World War II, the island closed down to the public so it could be used as a military training facility. After the war, tourism picked up again and it became a popular vacation spot for celebrities, especially from the 1930s to 1950s.

Catalina Island was and still is a popular place to shoot movies (over 500 films, tv shows, and commercials have been shot in the area).

Best Time to Visit Catalina Island

The best time of year to explore Catalina Island is spring and fall. You’ll find the best weather during this time of the year and slightly fewer crowds than you will in summer.

Summer can be a good time to visit as well, but the weather is often overcast in the mornings with the sun not breaking through until the afternoon.

Winter is the worst time to visit with choppy waters that make water activities hard to do and the ferry ride to and from the island unpleasant.

However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds and care more about land activities, winter can be a good alternative to the busier months.

Just note that winter brings reduced ferry times so there’s less wiggle room for a day trip (although it’s still very much possible).

Tips for Visiting Catalina Island

• Catalina Island isn’t the cheapest – As you can probably tell with the ferry price alone, a visit to Catalina Island isn’t always the cheapest. Transportation (including the ferry and golf cart rentals), food, and accommodation (if you’re planning a weekend trip), all come at a premium price. Make sure to budget accordingly and know that you’ll probably have to spend at least $200-$300 for a day trip to Catalina.
• Keep track of ferry times – This is especially the case if you’re visiting in the low season when there are only 1-2 departures and returns per day. Make sure you’re keeping track of the time and that you can actually fit everything in without needing to rush back to the ferry if you’re only doing a day trip.
• Pack water shoes – If you plan to do water activities, don’t forget a pair of water shoes. Although there are some soft sandy beaches, a lot of the shoreline around Catalina Island can be rocky and uncomfortable to walk around with bare feet.
• Try a Buffalo Milk cocktail – You can’t make a visit to Catalina Island without trying its signature drink! This creamy cocktail is made with vodka, Kahlua, Creme de Cocoa, Cream de Banana, and half and half. You should be able to find it at any bar on Catalina Island, but a good place to start is either Descanso Beach Club or Luau Larry’s. It’s basically like ice cream in cocktail form.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more Southern California travel inspiration? Don’t miss these related posts below! 

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Home » Blog3 » Travel Destinations » United States Destinations » Travel Utah

One Day in Zion National Park: The Ultimate Day Trip Itinerary

If you’re planning a road trip through Utah, chances are you’ll end up visiting the magnificent sandstone canyons of Zion National Park. One of Utah’s “ Mighty 5 National Parks”, Zion was established in 1919 and holds the distinction as the state’s oldest one.

There’s a lot to see in this spectacular wilderness area, but if you can only spend one day in Zion National Park there’s a few must-see places that you won’t want to miss.

My husband Daniel and I drove through Zion with our VW Rialta motorhome in March 2021. We had an incredible time, but there’s some things we would have done differently if we had it to do over again.

If you’re wondering what to do in Zion National Park in one day , this guide is a good place to start. The park is extremely popular and some advanced planning is helpful to ensure you make the most out of your visit.

One of the first things you need to know about visiting Zion is that a shuttle bus service operates most of the year to all the major sights in Zion Canyon. You can’t just drive into Zion Canyon unless you arrive in the off season (like we did).

More about the Zion Canyon Shuttle System and how to plan your trip to Zion is available in the Planning a Visit to Zion National Park section at the end of the article.

But first – what are the best things to see if you only have one day in Zion National Park?

Note: be aware that Zion Canyon is prone to flash floods. A major flood ripped through Zion Canyon on June 29, 2021 and caused significant damage. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Be sure to check the Zion National Park web site for current conditions and weather warnings before visiting the park.

Just outside the entrance to Zion National Park in Springdale

Table of Contents

One Day in Zion National Park at a Glance

• 8:00 am – Zion Visitor Center
• 8:30 am – Zion Narrows Riverside Walk (2 miles)
• 11:00 am – Photo Op: Great White Throne and Angel’s Landing
• 11:30 am – Weeping Rock (currently closed)
• 12:30 pm – Lunch at Zion Lodge
• 1:30 pm – Emerald Pools Hike (3 miles)
• 4:00 pm – Drive the Mt. Caramel-Zion Tunnel
• 7:00 pm – Zion Canyon Overlook trail at sunset

One Day in Zion National Park Full Itinerary

Zion National Park Visitor Center

It’s best to begin your one day in Zion National Park at the Visitor Center near the park entrance. Here you can pick up park maps and talk to the rangers about current conditions and weather. For the National Park fans out there, you can get your passport stamped and pick up a collectible coin at the gift store. This is also where you wait for the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

If you have time, the Archaeology Trail near the visitor center is a fun walk to a historic Puebloan food storage shelter . It’s a short .3-mile jaunt to the top of a small hill that only takes about 10-15 minutes to complete.

Daniel stands on the summit of Archaeology Trail hill

Zion Narrows Riverside Walk

Zion Canyon is a magnificent 15-mile long gorge with brilliantly-colored sandstone walls and the highlight of any visit to Zion National Park. The canyon begins at the Temple of Sinawava, which is the last stop on the Zion Shuttle and also the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. From here, a trail leads into the canyon and provides spectacular views of the towering slot canyon walls.

The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk is 2-mile round-trip paved trail that is fairly flat and appropriate for most skill levels. The trail follows the river’s edge for one mile before ending at narrowest part of the canyon. Most visitors turn around here, but those with the appropriate footwear can continue into the canyon along the river bed. Some hikers wade through the shallow water all the way to Big Springs along The Narrows Trail .

This is one of the most popular trails in the entire park so don’t expect solitude on this hike. Be aware that the canyon may close during extreme weather and flash flood events. Waterproof boots and overalls are available for rent from local outfitters for those wanting to continue their hike on The Narrows Trail .

Zion Narrows Riverside Walk Trail

Zion Narrows as viewed from the Zion Narrows Riverside Trail

Great White Throne and Angel’s Landing Photo Op

Hiking to the top of Angel’s Landing is one of the most popular activities in the park. If you only have one day in Zion National Park, however, chances are you won’t have time for this strenuous climb to the top of the canyon’s walls (unless you skip a lot of other activities on this list or are an extremely fast hiker). So the next best thing is admiring Angel’s Landing from below in Zion Canyon.

One of the best places to view Angel’s Landing is from the Big Bend scenic pull-out . This is the second-to-last shuttle stop along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This stop is great because it also affords fabulous views of the Great White Throne , an enormous mesa predominantly composed of white Navajo Sandstone that rises over 2400 feet from the valley floor.

The Great White Throne as viewed from Big Bend

Angel’s Landing as viewed from Big Bend

Weeping Rock (currently closed)

Weeping Rock is another popular stop in Zion National Park. It’s a large alcove with sandstone walls that have been eroded to look as if the walls are weeping. The rock formations and lush hanging gardens are supposed to be very beautiful, but we didn’t get to see it because the area is currently closed. A massive landslide buried the area in rubble in 2019 and the area is closed indefinitely because the walls are still unstable.

Should this area open again, however, I’d really like to see it. It is only a short .3-mile hike to Weeping Rock from the trailhead and easy to access.

Lunch at Zion Lodge

The next stop on the journey is Zion Lodge. I always enjoy visiting historic lodges and hotels in National Parks. This one is smaller than some of the other National Park Lodges so that it better harmonizes with the landscape and scale of its surroundings. It is also right across the street from the next stop on the itinerary -  the Emerald Pools trailhead. So you might as well check the Lodge out since you’ll be here anyway.

If you’ve been following along this itinerary, you should arrive around lunch time. Zion Lodge is the only place to eat in the park either in the main dining room (Red Rock Grill) or at the Castle Dome Café (open seasonally). If you brought a picnic lunch, there are plenty of benches and spaces to spread out on the lawn around the lodge too.

The Zion Lodge

Hike to the Emerald Pools

There are three emerald pools in Zion National Park, each feeding water into the ones below. The Lower Emerald Pool is the easiest to access with a 1.4 mile round-trip paved trail leading to it. The pool is less interesting than the canyon wall above it which is streaked with colorful mineral deposits from water dripping down the canyon walls.

For those wanting more of a challenge, the trail continues up the canyon wall towards the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools. The Middle Pool isn’t much further and features a pool of water seeping off the cliff’s edge. The Upper Pool is more difficult to access, however, as the trail gains 620 feet of elevation to reach it. The pool is a deep green color and it is surrounded by magnificent colorful walls.

You can make this loop hike by taking Kayenta Trail and then returning to the lodge on the Grotto Trail. The entire loop of the Emerald Pools Trail is 3 miles with 620 feet of elevation gain.

Daniel walks along the path by Lower Emerald Pool

Upper Emerald Pool

Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel

Driving the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is one of the highlights of any visit to Zion National Park. A 25-mile long road that connects Zion with Mount-Carmel Junction near Kanab, the road has spectacular views and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. the highway features a 1 mile-long tunnel that was constructed in 1930. At the time of its completion, it was the longest tunnel of its kind in the United States.

If you plan to continue west toward Bryce Canyon National Park or the Grand Canyon, you could save this for when you leave because the tunnel will be on the way. Either way, be sure to make time to drive along the highway and take in the views.

Note that oversize vehicles are required to obtain a special pass before entering the tunnel.

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

A look down at the valley below at an overlook on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Entering the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel

Zion Canyon Overlook

End your one day in Zion National Park on a high note with a hike to Zion Canyon Overlook. Located on the eastern end of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, the overlook provides stunning views of Zion Canyon in the valley down below…. or at least that’s what I’ve been told anyway. There was no room in the tiny parking lot for our motorhome so missed it during our visit.

My friends Greg and Casey recently visited the park and were kind enough to share a photo with me from their adventure. Sunsets are a particularly popular time to visit the Zion Canyon Overlook so arrive early.  A short 1-mile roundtrip walk on the  Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is required to reach the viewpoint.

Greg and Casey at the Zion Canyon Overlook. Photo by Greg Snider.

Zion Canyon Overlook in the winter. Photo by Karan Chawla on Unsplash .

Two Days in Zion

If one day in Zion National Park isn’t enough time, consider extending your trip. There were so many amazing things to see in Zion National Park that I could have easily spent more time there. If you have an additional day (or two), consider adding the following to your itinerary:

• Note: the National Park Service announced that this iconic hike will require a permit as of April 1, 2022.
• Hike the Zion Narrows – a trail that runs along the riverbed in the narrowest part of Zion Canyon
• Visit Kolob Canyons – a less popular but scenic area on the western side of Zion National Park

Kolob Canyons in Zion National Park. Photo by Greg Snider.

Planning a Visit to Zion National Park

Springdale is the closest town to Zion and a great jumping off point from which to explore the park. Prices skyrocket during peak season, however, so book well in advance to get the best deals on lodging (or be prepared to stay further away from the park and drive more).

We love Zion National Park!

Zion Canyon Shuttle System

Note: the Shuttle Bus System is not running from November 29 to December 22, 2021. However, it will run during the holiday season from December 23 to January 1.

The first thing to know about planning a visit to Zion National Park is that a shuttle bus is required to enter Zion Canyon during most of the year. Parking is limited in the canyon, so the Park Service has closed the canyon to most vehicle traffic and implemented a Zion Canyon Shuttle System instead.

The shuttle bus starts at the Zion Visitor Center and drops off visitors at key stops along the Zion Canyon. Parking tends to fill up at the Visitor Center by 8:00 or 9:00 am in the high season, however, so arrive early. Another option is to park in Springdale and take the shuttle bus from Springdale into the park. The buses are both free but can be crowded in the summer months so expect to wait in line.

The shuttle buses typically run through the park’s high season beginning in February and ending in November. When Daniel and I arrived at Zion in early March 2021, the shuttle bus system was running on weekends only. Since we arrived mid-week, we got to drive into Zion Canyon without having to take the shuttle. It was great to be able to drive in the canyon, but the lack of parking presented its own unique challenges.

Pro Tip: Skip the shuttle bus and go by bike instead. You can rent an e-bike in Springdale and bike into Zion Canyon rather than take the bus. For more information about bicycling in Zion, check out the Zion National Park bicycling page .

Temple of Sinawava Shuttle Bus Stop in the off season

Entrance Fees and Parking

The fee to enter Zion National Park is $35 per vehicle which is good for seven days. The fee for pedestrians arriving on foot or on a shuttle is $20 (children 15 and under are free).

I recommend buying the America the Beautiful Interagency Pass , however, which costs $80. This allows entry to all National Parks for an entire year, as well as most federal lands (including National Forests, Bureau of Land Management and more). Be sure to buy your pass online before arriving at the park in order to shorten the wait in line.

Note: oversize vehicles have to pay an addition fee to drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Any vehicle that is 7’10” in width and/or 11’4″ in height or larger is required to have a tunnel permit. Rangers posted at both ends of the tunnel will covert two-way traffic to one-way for larger vehicles, ensuring safe passage.

Thankfully, our VW Rialta Motorhome fell just under the size restriction and we did not have to pay the $15 tunnel fee (although it would have been kinda fun to drive through the tunnel with no oncoming traffic…)

Welcome to Zion National Park!

Zion National Park Lodge is the only hotel located inside the National Park. The Lodge is located inside Zion Canyon and guests staying at the lodge get special access to drive into the canyon. This convenience does not come cheap, though, and prices start at $220 for a room. These rooms also tend to book up months in advance. There are also several hotels to choose from in Springdale, but these can also be quite expensive during peak season.

Camping is a more affordable option in Zion National Park. There are two campground in Zion Canyon – these tend to fill up quickly so advance reservations are recommended.

During our visit to Zion National Park, we stayed at the Zion Canyon Campground just outside of the park entrance in Springdale. This privately-owned campground is located right on the river with incredible views of Zion Canyon.

Our campsite at the Zion Canyon Campground

What to Bring

When entering a wilderness area or National Park, I always come prepared with water and snacks to last me throughout the day. While there are restaurants available at the Zion National Park Lodge, it may not be feasible to eat there due to long lines or changes in the itinerary. Check the weather forecast and be prepared with a sunhat and sunscreen or raingear as appropriate.

Since this itinerary includes hiking, wear comfortable shoes. Here is a list of some of my favorite hiking gear:

• Hiking Shoes  – Sturdy hiking or walking shoes are a must. Personally, I’m a big fan of  Altra Lone Peak Trail Running Shoes . I pair them with  Dirty Girl Gaiters  to keep sand and rocks from getting into my shoes.
• Socks  – Good thick socks are also important. I usually wear a pair of double-walled  Wrightsock Coomesh II socks  with my Altras. For longer hikes, I switch to  Injinji Midweight socks  to prevent toe blisters.
• Backpack  – A backpack is essential so you can carry water, layers, and snacks. I love Ospreys and use the  Osprey Manta pack  which is technically a men’s pack (because I have a longer torso than most women). The women’s equivalent is the  Osprey Mira pack .
• Hiking Poles  – Hiking poles reduce pressure on your joints and help maintain your balance if you trip. My current favorites are the  LEKI Micro Vario Carbon Trekking Poles  because they are super lightweight and fold down to easily fit into my suitcase.
• Sun Hat  – Protect your face (and scalp) with a broad sun hat.  This sun hat  is great because it has a wide brim and no back so it doesn’t bump into my backpack.
• Sun Shirt  – Protect your neck and arms from the sun with a long-sleeved sun shirt. The  Columbia Tamiami II  is highly rated and comes with built-in UPF 40 sun protection.
• Sun Screen  – Apply sun screen before hitting the trail and bring some along in case you need to reapply. I like these  Banana Boat 1-oz tubes of sunscreen  because they are super tiny and hardly take up any room in my bag.
• Camera  – I love taking photos and always bring a camera along on my hiking trips. I use the  Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II  because it is lightweight yet has many advanced features.
• Electronics  – if you are using your phone for navigation, bring a portable battery such as the  Anker portable battery charger . For longer hikes or backpacking trips, consider bringing a  Garmin InReach Explorer.  This is a Personal Locator Device (PLB) that enables you to trigger a SOS call to search and rescue and 2-way texting over satellite.

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Hi, i'm unicorn.

I am an avid hiker, traveler, and adventurer who is on the mission to explore hiking trails around the world.  I’m also obsessed with National Parks, long-distance trails and other outdoorsy things.

I hope to share this knowledge with you and inspire you to explore new hiking trails too!

You may also like… Vermillion Cliffs Scenic Highway Road Trip

Wahweap Hoodoos Trail: A Stunning Hike in Grand Staircase-Escalante

18 comments.

Rent ebikes in the local town and skip the buses altogether. More fun and traveling to the hikes at your own pace .Thank me later

Thanks for the excellent suggestion Johnny! I’ve updated the article to include this pro tip. Thanks!

Beautiful photos! My dream is to visit when the snow is there, the contrast of the red/orange rocks and the white snow is so gorgeous 🙂

Thanks Samantha! I bet that will be lovely. Plus you won’t have to worry about as many other visitors during the winter ☺️

The photos are so incredible! I’ve always wanted to visit. The tunnel looks really cool, but I bet I’d get slightly spooked going through it, knowing me. Ha!

The tunnel is pretty amazing!

Wow amazing. It looks like such a beautiful place to hike and explore. I’ve never really explored Utah too much. I’ll have to get out there at some point in my life!

Thanks Nina! It’s such a lovely National Park. I hope you get to visit someday.

Wow, I hope i have the chance to hike in this beautiful park. I will save your valuable tips when I go there. Great pictures.

Thanks for the kind comment. It’s a really amazing place. Hope you get to make it there some day.

I lived in Utah for almost a year and never made it to any of the National Parks – more bucket list things to add, this list is never-ending! Gorgeous photos and post, thanks for sharing Katy!

Thanks! Sadly we only made it to 1 National Park in Utah. I have many more parks to visit too 😊😊

Zion’s been on my list for a while now. I found so much valuable info here. Hope I can soon make it a reality. Beautiful imagery too! ❤

Thanks Mateja. I hope so too!

Great itinerary and I love the pictures illustrating this great guide to one of the top places in my bucket list I still need to visit and hike no stop for days. I love your motor home too. I am just back from a long trip on a rental motorhome and I absolutely loved it.

Thanks Paula! Traveling in a motorhome is a fun way to road trip 🙂

This place has been on my bucket list for so long!!! I have to get there, it looks incredible!

It looks like a beautiful place. I love the bike idea!

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Boston   Travel Guide

1-day Itinerary in Boston

• 1-Day Itinerary
• All Things To Do
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Boston Public Garden Boston Public Garden free

Though the Boston Public Garden sits right next to Boston Common , the two are quite different. The public garden is newer (established in 1837) and holds the distinction of being America's first public botanical garden. Flowers and trees are beautifully organized and kept in quality condition throughout. You can see the colorful arrangements and exotic trees from the 6-acre pond as you glide along the water in a Swan Boat. Additionally, the park houses two of Boston's most iconic statues: Make Way for Ducklings (a bronze sculpture of a duck and her eight ducklings) and a sculpture of George Washington (which shows America's first president riding on a horse).

Visitors looking to relax after sightseeing will enjoy the Boston Public Garden. Parkgoers say you'll find plenty of shade beneath the park's trees, which comes in handy on hot summer days. Plus, you'll likely spot some ducks and geese swimming around the lagoon. And if you have a few dollars, visitors recommend taking a 15-minute ride on a Swan Boat. The large paddle boats cost $4.50 to ride (or $3 for kids ages 2 to 15 and $4 for seniors); travelers with Go Boston Cards ride for free. Swan Boats are usually available between mid-April and Labor Day.

Boston Common Boston Common free

The grounds of Boston Common started as a cow pasture in the mid-1600s. It was also used for Puritan punishments, like whipping, and even for hangings. In 1768, the area was transformed into a British camp. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common is best known because of its status as the oldest public park in the country. You'll also find a variety of activities and events – including theater and musical performances and free fitness classes – hosted here throughout the year. If you plan to traverse the Freedom Trail , you'll start the walk here at Boston Common.

Though some visitors say you won't find much to do in this park, Boston Common is great for picnics or a leisurely stroll. Travelers also mention that this site is a wonderful spot to take young children. In addition to ample running room on the park's green space, kids can play at the Tadpole Playground or Frog Pond. Frog Pond offers a spray pool during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in the winter. Some visitors do note that the park tends to draw Boston's homeless population, particularly at night.

Freedom Trail Freedom Trail free

Stretching 2½ miles, the Freedom Trail weaves past 16 of the city's most historic sites, including Faneuil Hall Marketplace , the Paul Revere House and Old North Church . Taking in all of the trail's attractions requires at least half a day (and some comfortable walking shoes), but you can easily plot points of interest before you begin your jaunt from Boston Common .

Though most visitors agree the trail is easy to navigate on your own, some recommend a guided tour or downloading an app to tell you about the sites. (You'll find a handful of apps available for Apple and Android devices.) If you have a Go Boston Card, standard guided tours given by the Freedom Trail Foundation are covered by your pass.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Every Friday and Saturday, Haymarket (one America's oldest open-air markets) pops up adjacent to Faneuil Hall. In order to navigate this often-chaotic scene successfully make sure to bring small bills, leave bulky bags at the hotel and keep it moving on the sidewalk. - Jill LeGrow

Four buildings – Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market and South Market – constitute Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the oldest being Faneuil Hall. Built in 1742 and now a stop on the Freedom Trail , Faneuil Hall has had a long and important history in Massachusetts politics. Samuel Adams once stood here to push for resistance against the British, and abolitionists and suffragists have stood on their soapboxes here. In fact, this is where colonists famously challenged the Stamp Act of 1764 by proclaiming, "no taxation without representation." From those illustrious days, the marketplace has expanded to include more than 100 shops and restaurants.

New England Holocaust Memorial New England Holocaust Memorial free

Gaze up at the six 54-foot glass towers that comprise the New England Holocaust Memorial, and you're bound to be awestruck. Dedicated in 1995, each haunting tower is etched with numbers. The 6 million numbers represent the Holocaust's victims, while the towers represent the six major death camps. There is also a granite path covered in quotes from survivors that leads visitors inside the towers.

Recent visitors described walking through the columns as an emotionally charged and unforgettable experience. The monument's location next to Faneuil Hall Marketplace makes it very accessible while walking the Freedom Trail .

Paul Revere House Paul Revere House

For a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1700s, head to Paul Revere's former residence in the North End . The house, which is situated on the Freedom Trail , offers insight into how homes looked in Revere's time (it's even filled with period pieces, including fine silver). Inside, history fans can admire the building's sweeping beams, spacious fireplaces and some original furnishings owned by the Revere family.

If you like American history, travelers say you'll enjoy seeing the Paul Revere House. This house is small, though, so don't allot more than an hour to tour the property. Docents are friendly and knowledgeable.

Old North Church Old North Church

Most people who know anything about American history have heard of Paul Revere's famous midnight ride, when he rode through town to warn people about the arrival of British troops. Before heading off to Lexington, Revere gave orders at Old North Church. Robert Newman – the church's sexton – and Captain John Pulling Jr. – the church's vestryman – then climbed the steeple and held two lanterns as a signal that the British were indeed coming, but by sea.

The church itself, which is officially named Christ Church, is filled with beautiful relics from the past, including North America's oldest set of change ringing bells and chandeliers brought in from England in the early 1700s. The pews have a long history as well; Pew No. 54 was reserved for Paul Revere's son.

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1-Day Napa Itinerary

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One Day Trips near Bangalore

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One Day Trips Near Bangalore Within 100 Km

Nandi hills - 61 km from bangalore.

Since the fortress is perched at an elevation of 1,450 metres, bring your camera along to capture sweeping vistas of lush green hills covered in a veil of white clouds. 

Distance from Bangalore: 61 km

Places to Visit in Nandi Hills :   Tipu’s Drop,  Tipu Sultan’s Fort, Brahmashram,  Muddenahalli, etc. Things to do in Nandi Hills:    Enjoy Paragliding among the Nandi Hills,  Cycle around the steep roads of Nandi Hills,  Take a Relaxing Walk in the Hills Best Time to Visit Nandi Hills:   Between the months of September to February Where to Stay:  Top 11 Resorts to stay in Nandi Hills

Suggested Read:    A Detailed Travel Guide for Bangalore to Nandi Hills Tour You can also book:  London Eye Tickets

• Nandi Hills

Ramanagara - 48 km from Bangalore

The locale is encompassed by seven magnificent slopes Shivaramagiri, Yatirajagiri, Somagiri, Krishnagiri, Revanna Siddeshwara hill, Jala Siddeshwara hill and Sidilakallu hill. In this way Ramanagaram is an asylum for shake climbers. This place is best for one day trip from Bangalore.

Ramanagaram is additionally renowned as the Silk City because of its silk and cocoon industry. Make your adventure and exciting one while you head out to this amazing place. 

This is another of famous places where you can head out for a one day trip around Bangalore. Get ready to enjoy a wonderful vacation with your family. This location is also popular as a one day picnic spots near Bangalore.

Nature Adventure Camp, Kanakapura - 69 km from Bangalore

Another interesting activity for one day trip from Bangalore which might interest you is camping near Bangalore . Set in the picture-perfect region of Banantimari State Forest zone, encompassed by greenery and flanked by a lake and mountain, the Nature Adventure Camp is a perfect area for the entire scope of adventure for the day.  You can go trekking to close by the slope of Banantimari hill and also can enjoy different activities.

One can also head out for a Rock Rappelling and then enjoy the amazing camping. The camping adventure is made more fun together with the beautiful surroundings abutting the Bananthimari forest region. One can also indulge in activities like zip lining, canoeing etc.

Distance from Bangalore: Nature adventure camp is located at a distance of 69 kms from Bangalore.

Places to Visit in Kanakpura:   Shivagiri Kshetra Shivaldappana Betta, Kabbaladurga,  Bananthimari Betta, etc. Things to do in Kanakpura : Go for trekking at Kabbaladurga,  Visit the  Bananthimari Betta Best Time:   Between the months of October to April You may also like:  20 Spots near Bangalore within 100 Kms

Guhantara Cave Resort - 28 km from Bangalore

Experience how it feels to seek refuge underground,  Guhantara Cave Resort promises a pleasant one day one night trip from Bangalore. What makes this resort an unusual one is that it encompasses underground cave rooms laced with all modern amenities. It is also preferred by many city dwellers for a day outing trip since a wide range of immersive experiences are available here. 

From rope walking and quad biking to billiards and horse riding, you can try your hands on a lot of exhilarating activities. To add more fun to your weekend, the resort even features a well-appointed discotheque.

Distance from Bangalore: 28 km

Must Read:  30 Astonishing Resorts near Bangalore  Also Read:  Things To Do In Singapore

Microlight Flying at Jakkur - 16 km from Bangalore

If you are interested in devoting your break to witnessing bird's eye view of Bangalore, Jakkur, located on the outskirts of the city is where you should be. Jakkur Lake and Jakkur Aerodrome are the major reasons why this place is a favourite among the locals. The microlight flying experience here lets you relish scenic sights of the picturesque lakes located here along with sweeping views of Bangalore from a height of 4,000 feet making it one of the best places to visit near Bangalore in one day.

While the thrill of flying up in the air gives you an adrenaline rush, the scenic beauty of the landscape will mesmerize you.

Distance from Bangalore: 16 km

Must Read:  20 Best 2 Day Trips Near Bangalore with Friends

Skandagiri - 60 km from Bangalore

Skandagiri, one of the most famous trekking location near Bangalore , also known as Kalavara Durga, is an ancient mountain fortress located 3 km from Chikballapur overlooking the Nandi Hills, Muddenahalli, and Kanivenarayanapura and it is one of the best places around Bangalore for 1 day trip. On a one day trip from Bangalore to Skandagiri, one can undertake an easy, 2-hour trek up a well-marked route on the 1350 m high peak. At the top of the hill is an 18th-century fort, which is now in a dilapidated state and which you can see throughout the walk uphill, along with an abandoned temple. Getting close to the top of the hill, one can see lush vegetation while the summit offers sweeping views of the basin below. Most trekkers climb up this precipitous hill early in the morning to reach the peak just in time to view the sun rising slowly at the distance. Tourists must definitely carry their camera and take spectacular pictures of 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. Distance from Bangalore:  60 km

Places to Visit in Skandagiri:  Nehru Nilaya,  Bhimeshwara Temple,  Papagni Matt, etc. Things to do in Skandagiri:  Enjoy Trekking on the Skandagiri Hills ,  Experience Serenity at Bhimeshwara Temple Best Time:  Between the months of November to March Where to Stay:  Hotel Mount Palazzo,  Shathayu Ayurveda Yoga Retreat, Signature Club Resort

Popular Read:  25 Astounding Hill Stations Near Bangalore

Wine Tour - 47 km from Bangalore

Step away from whatever is exhausting you in your day to day life, and leave to undergo this offbeat experience of winemaking near Bangalore . This activity is both educational and entertaining in nature, and by the time the tour ends, you will have acquired all the knowledge about the process involved in wine-making. 

Learn about the history of wine-making, how the cultivation is done, steps involved in processing the wine, and the importance of packaging and labelling. Take a tour of the charming vineyard, add some interesting information to your knowledge, and taste a wide variety of wine made there and it is also one of the most famous places to visit near Bangalore in one day.

Distance from Bangalore: 47 km

Best Time:  Between the months of March to May You may also like:  40 Amazing Day Outing Places near Bangalore Also Read:  Img World Rides

Savandurga Hills - 70 km from Bangalore

Savandurga is a large monolith hill, rising 1226 m above sea level, around 70 km west of Bangalore. Composed of two hills known locally as Karigudda (black hill) and Biligudda (white hill), Savandurga forms a part of the Deccan plateau and consists of volcanic rocks like peninsular gneiss and granite, giving it a typical hue and it is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore in one day.

The Arkavathi River flows nearby through the Thippagondanahalli reservoir and on towards Manchanabele dam. At the foothills of Savandurga are the temples devoted to Sri Savandi Veerabhadraswamy and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. 

On this one day trip near Bangalore, many rock climbers and cave explorers frequent the area to indulge in their favourite adventure activity. Most tourists usually go trekking up the slopes of the hill after a short stopover at the temples. The Manchanebele dam is unmissable for a wide variety of water and adventure sports available.

Distance from Bangalore:  70 km

Places to Visit in Savandurga : Thippagondanahalli Reservoir,  Manchinbele Dam,  Narsimha Temple, etc. Things to do i n Savandurga :  Enjoy Rock Climbing around the hills,  Have a fun Trek on the Savandurga Hill Best Time:  Between the months of November to May Where to Stay:  Eagleton the Golf Resort,  Wonderla Resort

Must Read:   35 Memorable Road Trips From Bangalore

Anthargange - 66 km from Bangalore

For an adventure-filled break with your friends, you can hardly find a destination as rewarding as Anthargange. Whether you are passionate about trekking or you want to get familiar with the concept of cave exploration, a short trip to this mountain in Shathashrunga range fits the bill. 

The mountain has a maximum altitude of 1,712 metres, which also makes it an excellent place for photographers as one can capture breathtaking frames composed of boulders,  foliage, and virtually endless plains. Kashi Vishweshwara Temple is a major camping near Bangalore, which also ropes in devotees.

Distance from Bangalore: 66 km

Places to Visit in  Anthargange:  Anthargange Caves,  Lord Someshwara Temple, etc. Things to do in  Anthargange :  Explore the caves of Anthargange,  Go Trekking in the mountains of  Anthargange,  Enjoy  Anthargange Sunrise Trek. Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Where to Stay:  Sai Nandhini AC Lodge,  Four Points by Sheraton Bengaluru

Also Read:  40 Best Places for Trekking near Bangalore

Makalidurga - 58 km from Bangalore

Makalidurga is a little hill with stature 1117 mt arranged in a village which has the same name. It is basically a hill fort which is a great attraction for the people.  It is the best option for an amazing one day trip near Bangalore. 

There is a railroad track which goes through the base of the hill making it considerably all the more intriguing. The trek to Makalidurga top is generally simple. Legend says that Sage Markandeya performed repentance here. 

This fortification was under the control of the Vijayanagar realm. In the end, the Maratha's captured it and then later assumed control by Kempe Gowda. Makalidurga is a perfect one day trek making it quick and painless. One can begin trekking from the Makalidurga railroad station. A 3 km stroll along the railroad track takes one to the base of the hill.

Distance from Bangalore: Makalidurga is generally around 58 km from Bangalore.

Places to visit in Makalidurga:  Ghati Subramanya Temple, Grover Zampa Vineyards, Chikka Madhure Shani Mahatma Temple, etc.

Things to do in Makalidurga:  Trekking, camping. Tour of vineyards, visit temples and peaks, Night trekking, etc.

Best time:  September to February

Where to Stay:  Green Valley resort, Aura foothills, Farmstead, etc.

Popular Read:   15 Best Places for Night Trekking in Bangalore

Best of Goa

Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta - 79 km from Bangalore

Another hotspot for one-day trips around Bangalore is Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta lies at a height of 3780 ft. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Rangaswamy at the pinnacle of Bilikal Betta. This sanctuary is situated underneath a colossal, white-hued shake. The sanctuary minister lives close to the sanctuary and is the main individual living at the pinnacle. Consistently, explorers from the encompassing zone climb this slope to commend a celebration at the Rangaswamy sanctuary at the best. Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta has a place with the Eastern Ghats and is loaded with bush woods. Elephants and different creatures can be seen in these woods amid the night. The view from the best is extremely beautiful as should be obvious the hillocks from the encompassing Kanakapura go, chiefly BM betta, Kabbala Durga and Savanadurga as well. Distance from Bangalore: Bilikal Rangaswamy Betta is located at around 79 km from Bangalore.

Best time:  August to January

You may also like:  20 Best Resorts Near Bangalore for Weekend

Best of Coorg

Wonderla - 29 km from Bangalore

Visit Wonderla with your entire family and make your weekend an extraordinary affair with some moments of pure exhilaration. A perfect choice for one-day trips near Bangalore, Wonderla is an amusement park located on Bangalore-Mysore Highway. For adventure junkies, the park features adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and several types of rides that will compel you to scream at the top of your lungs.

And if you would rather prefer to bask under the sun, there is a wave pool to lower yourself into. Besides, ensuring some lighthearted moments, take pleasure in rain disco or catch a show of the Adventures of Chikku. 

Distance from Bangalore: 29 km Things to do in Wonderla:  Enjoy rides, go to theme parks and amusement parks, enjoy in water rides, dip in pool and many more. Best Time to Visit: March to August Also Check:  New Year Parties in Bangalore

Best of Munnar

Big Banyan Tree - 34 km from Bangalore

If you are looking for some more fun-filled one day trip from Bangalore then Big Banyan Tress is the perfect option for you. Big Banyan Tree is an acclaimed vacation destination in Bangalore. 

The Big Banyan Tree, as the name shows is a colossal banyan tree. The Big Banyan Tree or Dodda Alada Mara is an absolute necessity among spots to visit in Bangalore. Spread more than 5 sections of land, the Big Banyan tree is almost 400 years of age and is a great example of nature's abundance!

The covering of the tree continually augments throughout the years and it has been an observer to the advancement of the Country throughout the years. Going out for a stroll close by the maze of roots and unwinding in the cool shade is compelling and henceforth Big Banyan Tree makes the slice among spots to visit in Bangalore.

Distance from Bangalore: Big Banyan Tree is located at a distance of 34 km from Bangalore.

Where to Stay:  The Country club, Ruppi's Hotel & Resort, Siri Spandana, etc

Suggested Read:  55 Best Homestays in Bangalore Also checkout:  Things To Do In Barcelona

Best of Wayanad

Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary - 87 km from Bangalore

Another spot for one day trip from Bangalore which you can visit while you are in Bangalore is the Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary which is very near to Bangalore. This exquisite bird sanctuary of Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary is 12 kilometers from Maddur towards Halagur. Being one of only a handful few settling reasons for the spot-charged pelican is Kokkare Beller's distinguishing strength and acknowledgement. The name of this village begins from "kokkare" which signifies "crane" in Kannada. Villagers consider the birds as good fortunes and thriving to the town. This uniqueness has additionally pulled in voyagers to the town to watch the flying creatures. The Spot Billed Pelican is a jeopardized species and consequently, the administration ensures that this locale takes different measures to secure the regular territory to energize the proceeded with the movement of the bird. Distance from Bangalore: Kokkare Bellur Bird Sanctuary is located at a distance of 87 km from Bangalore.

Best Time:  from November to June

Must Read:   Best 3 Days Trip From Bangalore

Best of Chikmagalur

Bannerghatta National Parks - 21 km from Bangalore

Located on the outskirts of Bangalore, this zoological park is an abode of a diversity of flora and fauna, visited by hundreds of wildlife enthusiasts and vacationers every day. Some of the exotic animals you can expect to spot here are elephants, lions, tigers, sloth bears, and porcupine and it is one of the finest places around Bangalore for 1 day trip.

The park encompasses a butterfly park, an aquarium, a children's park, a crocodile park, a museum and a zoo in addition to a massive reserved forest area. Perfect for rejuvenation and adventure, Bannerghatta National Park is one of the most recommended places to visit near Bangalore for one day trip.

Distance from Bangalore: 21 km

Best Time to Visit:  Winter season. Where to stay:  Bannerghatta Nature Camp, Radiant resorts, Deroots Solutions, Prakruti Farms, etc.

Also Read:  20 Best National Parks in Bangalore

Best of Ooty

Shivagange - 52 Km from Bangalore

A confluence between spirituality and adventure, Shivagange is mountain peak near Bangalore, claiming a height of more than 800 metres. Other than a few rock structures, the statue of a holy bull, Nandi, sits atop the peak. Being a popular pilgrimage among the local Hindus, it is visited by throngs of devotees and it is one of the most famous places to visit near Bangalore in one day. 

However, if you are planning an adventurous trip from Bangalore , you should certainly consider trekking here. The steep climb that leads to the top will become memorable for you with the thrill and breathtaking views.

Best of Sakleshpur

Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls - 138 km from Bangalore

If you are looking for that perfect fun-filled adventure one day trips from Bangalore than this is the perfect place for you. Make your day and exciting one as you head out to the Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls. Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are two amazing waterfalls that have gained a lot of popularity among the people.  Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are arranged at a separation of around 3 km from  Mysore city on the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Main Road. Encompassed by rich greenery this region is additionally a famous weekend experience around Bangalore. 

Balmuri and Edmuri Waterfalls are not genuine waterfalls. Edmuri Waterfall is situated around 500 meters toward the east of Balmuri Waterfall. The spot adjacent Edmuri Waterfall is appropriate for swimming and water recreations. There is additionally an antiquated Ganesha Temple adjacent Edmuri Waterfall.

Best of Pondicherry

Manchinbele - 36 Km from Bangalore

Separating itself from the Bangalorean bustle just by a long drive, Manchinbele is a village and reservoir in Karnataka. Its picturesque scenery and availability of a lot of activities make it a complete getaway package. Please the adventurer in you by indulging in kayaking, rappelling, and trekking and it is one of the best places around Bangalore for 1 day trip.

Or you can pamper yourself by soaking in the calming atmosphere and natural beauty that surrounds you here. For those looking forward to spending a happening time with family and friends, this hidden destination is best for one day trips from Bangalore.

Best of Kodaikanal

One Day Trips From Bangalore Within 200 Km

Bheemeshwari - 102 km from bangalore.

When you are planning one day trips near Bangalore, Bheemeshwari is one of the best bets you have in the region. A serene place with a diverse range of experiences to offer, Bheemeshwari is a small town on the banks of Kaveri River. This place is dotted with a number of nature and adventure camps that make the experience of spending the weekend here an unforgettable affair. 

A treasure trove of exhilarating activities, the town makes available trekking, camping, and river rafting. So visit here with your family and friends, and enjoy the best of nature and adventure on a short getaway.

Distance from Bangalore:  102 km

Places to Visit in Bheemeshwari:  Cauvery Fishing Camp,  Doddamakkali Nature Camp,  Kokrebellur Pelicanry Things to do in Bheemeshwari:  Go for Boating in the waters of Cauvery,  Go Trekking in the valleys of Bheemeshwari,  Enjoy a day Fishing Galibore Fishing Camp Best Time:  Between the months of November to February Where to Stay:   Excellent Resorts to Stay in Bheemeshwari

Top Experiences To Do in Bheemeshwari

• Bheemeshwari

Best of Gokarna

Mysore - 143 km from Bangalore

Mysore is a fascinating city, ideal for one day trips near Bangalore, especially if you are interested in sightseeing excursions. For centuries, this city was the capital of the Kingdom of Mysore, and thus cradles scores of magnificent historical structures. The colourful cultural diversity of Mysore is another important factor why it is widely admired by tourists. 

Of all the noteworthy places here, the tastefully built Mysore Palace is the grandest complex, still standing proudly with all its glory. Furthermore, one can also pay homage to various old Hindu temples located here, known for their brilliant architectures.

Distance from Bangalore: 143 km from Bangalore. Places to Visit in Mysore:  Mysore Palace, Somanathapura Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo, Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, etc. Things to do in Mysore:  Admire the Royalty at the Mysore Palace, Take a walk in the Brindavan Gardens, Visit the Mysore Zoo Best Time:  Between the months of July to February Where to Stay:  Top 15 Resorts to Stay in Mysore

Also Read:  20 Popular Tourist Places Near Bangalore Within 400 Kms

Top Experiences To Do in Mysore

Best of Hampi

Kunti Betta - 125 km from Bangalore

If you are looking for an adventure outing option than Kunti Betta is the perfect option for you. Kunti Betta night trek is great among the best known and exciting trekking experiences one can swear by close Bangalore. 

One of the best one-day trips from Bangalore is this night trek which gives you zest and shivers your daring bone as you head out this thrilling trek. As the night has a tendency to hone the body sensations and touches off a sentiment instability and interest about your trail.

Two rough hills standing tall in the town of Pandavapura, encompassed by some stunning picture culminate landscape; overlooking the beautiful Pandavapura Lake is Kunti Betta. It is said that the Pandavas to shelter here during the time of their ‘vanavas’. It is said that they have developed a fondness for this hills and hence the town and the hill are named after them.

Best of Shimoga

Shivanasamudram Falls - 135 km from Bangalore

This Small town of Shivanasamudra on the banks of river Kaveri is the best one day trip from Bangalore. Once the Kaveri River makes its way through the rocky terrain of the Deccan Plateau, it drops off in the form of the Shivanasamudram Falls.

The island town of Shivanasamudra that divides the river into twin waterfalls – Barachukki and Gaganchukki, has a group of ancient temples located on it. Being a segmented waterfall, Shivanasamudram has multiple waterfalls dropping over a cliff.

The Eastern branch of the falls is called the Bharachukki which are a few kilometres to the South of the place where the Kaveri splits into the twin Gaganachukki falls. A watchtower at Shivanasamudra enables tourists to get a glorious view of the Gaganachukki falls and take photographs of the waters in full splendour. 

A popular activity that you can participate in on this day trip around Bangalore is a coracle ride over the gushing water at the bottom of the falls. The perennial Shivanasamudram Falls can be visited anytime during the year but the best flow is in the monsoon season of July to October.

Distance from Bangalore: 135km from Bangalore.

Places to Visit in  Shivanasamudra Falls:  Shivanasamudra Waterfalls, Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls, Talakad Temples, etc. Things to do in  Shivanasamudra Waterfalls :  Go Fishing in the waters of Shivanasamudra Waterfalls, Have a fun day at the Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls, Go Shopping at the local market of Shivanasamudra Best Time:   Between the months of September to January Where to Stay:  Hotel Mayura Bharachukki,  Vanam Farm

Must Read:  30 Astonishing Beaches Near Bangalore

Best of Kabini

Hogenakkal Waterfalls - 125 km from Bangalore

If you believe nothing heals a tired soul like nature does, Hogenakkal Waterfall is among the most refreshing places to visit near Bangalore for one day trip. Located in Tamil Nadu on Kaveri River, this waterfall is frequented by people residing in the nearby cities for picnicking and photography. 

The river segregates into several streams and all the streams plummet with a gush, creating a sight to behold. Apart from witnessing the spectacle, you can also indulge in Coracle boat riding or you can cool your head off by bathing in the cool waters.

Distance from Bangalore: 125 km Places to Visit in  Hogenakkal Waterfalls:  Hogenakkal Falls, Mettur Dam, Melagiri Hills Things to do in  Hogenakkal Waterfalls:  Go Boating in the waters of Hogenakkal, Enjoy the view of Mettur Dam Best Time:  Between the months of October to February Where to Stay:  Sri Priya Lodge, A S Cottage Popular Read:  20 Best Places To Visit in Bangalore For Couples

Best of Nandi Hills

Chunchi Falls - 57 km from Bangalore

If you are planning to spend some time near Bangalore with your family this weekend than this one-day picnic spots around Bangalore will definitely make you happy. Chunchi Falls is a waterfall on the banks of the River Arkavati and is named after a tribal couple Chuncha and Chunchi. It is on the way to Mekedatu and Sangama. Tucked amidst rough territory and deciduous backwoods the waterfall is very prominent for picnicking. Despite the fact that the falls have yet not been popularized like Shivnasamudra falls and stays betrayed on the greater part of the days yet it makes for a perfect one day trip from Bangalore during monsoon to escape from the monotonous routine. A limited rough and sloppy way will lead you to a standout amongst the most staggering waterfalls of Karnataka. The landscape is very uneven and somewhat slippery at a few spots. Distance from Bangalore: Chunchi falls is located at a distance of 57 km from Bangalore.

Best Time: from August to February 

Must Read:  21 Places to Visit Around Bangalore During The Monsoon Season

Best of Nagarhole

Horsley Hills - 160 km from Bangalore

Another one of the famous hill stations around Bangalore is the famous Horsely Hills. Most of you might have already heard about this beautiful place. Horsley Hills is a pleasant hamlet in the territory of Andhra Pradesh for a one day trip from Bangalore.

Arranged at a height of 4,100 ft this quiet hill station is named after W.D. Horsley, the authority of Cuddapah region. The scenic drive to this mesmerizing hamlet is to a great degree all encompassing and beautiful and has thick vegetation of trees lining on the two sides of the street.

The other real draw for the voyagers is the unwinding atmosphere of the Horsley Hills which ranges from 20°C to 32°C even in summers. The slope is rich with thick timberland and thick greenness and has a wide assortment of trees like Gulmohar, Allamanda, Reeta, Amla, Beedi leaves, Blue Gum, Eucalyptus and Sandalwood.

Distance from Bangalore: 160 km from Bangalore

Places to Visit in Horsley Hills:  Kaigal Falls, Chennakesava Temple,  Horsley Hills Zoo, etc. Things to do in Horsley Hills:  Spend a day at the Horsley Hills Zoo,  Visit the Whisper Wind View Point Best Time:  Between the months of December to March Where to Stay:  Horsley Hills Holiday Homes, Horsley Hills Haritha Hill Resort

Suggested Read:  Best Honeymoon Tours in Bangalore

Yelagiri Hills - 160 km from Bangalore

A sleepy hill station in the state of Tamil Nadu, Yelagiri Hills is renowned for its charming, verdant landscape. If you are planning to spend some quality time peacefully, away from your tiresome routine, this place is perfect for a one day one night trip from Bangalore. The hill station boasts a number of mand-made as well as natural attractions such as Punganur Lake, Nature Park, Jalagamparai Waterfall, and Velavan Temple. 

What makes this place all the more likeable for vacationers is a number of picnic spots with mesmerizing mountain views. And if you would like to indulge in some action, there are scenic hiking trails around here.   Distance from Bangalore: Yelagiri Hills is located at a distance of 160 km from Bangalore. Places to Visit in Yelagiri Hills:  Punganoor Lake Park, Nature Park, Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Telescope Observatory, etc. Things to do in Yelagiri Hills:  Experience the Natural Beauty at Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Visit the Telescope Observatory Best Time:  Between the months of November to February Where to Stay:  15 Best Resorts in Yelagiri

Top Experiences To Do in Yelagiri

Mekedatu Falls - 90 km from Bangalore

For a one day trip around Bangalore, Mekedaatu falls are a great option to explore if waterfalls and natural scenes are up your alley. Mekedaatu, or 'goat's leap' in Kannada, is a charming location along Kaveri in the rural parts of Bangalore. 

The confluence of Rivers Kaveri and Arkavati takes place at the Sangama area and 3.5 kms downstream from there, the river Kaveri flows through a very deep and narrow ravine of hard granite rock.

The river, which is more than 150 meters wide at the meeting point (at Sangama) flows through the barely 10-meter-wide gorge at Mekedatu. As per local legend, a goat being chased by a tiger managed to cross over the raging river by leaping across the gorge and saved its life in the process – thus giving rise to the name ‘goat’s leap’. 

Approaching the spot, one can see the magnificent flow of all the water as it roars down the ravine. However, one must tread cautiously in this region as the rocks are deceptively slippery and the water below is deep.

Distance from Bangalore: 100km

Must Read:  22 Best Resorts In And Around Bangalore For Couples

BR Hills - 170 Km from Bangalore

Fresh air to breathe, cool climate to rejuvenate, and exquisite scenery to bless your eyes - BR Hills is a paradisiacal holiday destination in the middle of the Western and the Eastern Ghats. Though it is not a commercialized place with a number of tourist attractions, BRT Wildlife Sanctuary, Coffee Estate and Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple are some reasons why it is perfect for one day trips from Bangalore. 

The rich variety of flora and fauna in the region also makes it a popular choice for wildlife exploration. Besides, thanks to the perfect terrain of this place, you can also have a great time indulging in trekking, fishing and river rafting.

Distance from Bangalore: 170 km

Places to Visit in BR Hills:  BRT Wildlife Sanctuary,  Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple,  Dodda Sampige Mara, etc. Things to do in BR Hills :  Visit the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple,  Go River Rafting in Cauvery River Best Time:  Between the months of November to March Where to Stay:   Resorts to Stay in BR Hills

Also Read:  20 Popular Tourist Spots Near Bangalore Within 400 Kms

Hassan - 182 Km from Bangalore

After that long tiring day at work most of you might be waiting to spend some time away from the busy life. Spend some memorable time with your family as you head out to Hassan which is famous as the best one day trip from Bangalore.

Lying in the Malnad and Maidan areas of Karnataka this destination can be considered as a virgin land as it is unknown to most of the people. The city gets its name from its residing diety Goddess Hassanamba which in kanana dialect signify 'Smiling mother'.

Attributable to its antiquated structures and landmarks, this city is regularly called as the temple - architecture capital of Karnataka. Head out for an amazing day along with your loved ones to this destination.

Talakad - 133 Km from Bangalore

Talakad is a little mystical town saturated with the magnificent past and heritage settled on the left banks of River Kaveri. The town has been a witness to the ascent and falls of a few incredible kingdoms including Cholas, Pallavas, Gangas, Vijayanagar and Hoysalas and it is one of the serene places around Bangalore for 1 day trip.

Looking every step of the way one can see some flawlessly cut temples that speak to the finest embodiment of unending adventure of craftsmanship and footprints of the rich former time.

Nicknamed as 'Kasi of the South', Talakad is decorated with five hallowed Shivalingas giving this interesting spot an otherworldly air and a natural appeal. After several temples being excavated from the cursed sand dunes, there are many more waiting to be unearthed. Talakad is one of the best choices for a one day trip near Bangalore.

People Also Ask About Bangalore

What are the best 1 day trips from bangalore with friends, which are the best waterfalls to visit during one day trips from bangalore.

1.   Abbey Falls , Coorg with a height of 70 ft 2.  Mallalli Falls ,   Coorg with a height of 1000 ft 3.  Jog Falls , Shimoga with a height of 830 ft ft 4.  Dudhsagar Waterfalls , Goa with a height of 1017 ft 5.  Kaigal Waterfalls , Andhra Pradesh with a height of 40  ft 6.   Hogenakkal Falls , Dharmapur with a height of 66 ft 7.  Iruppu Falls , Virajpet with a height of 170 ft

What are the famous places near Bangalore for one day trips in the monsoon?

Where i can go for one day trips with family from bangalore.

Bangalore hooks up to a lot of scenic places. Following are some of the beautiful places near to Bangalore : Shivanasamudra - 135 km from Bangalore (Famous for Shivanasamudra Waterfalls, Barachukki and Gaganachukki Falls, Talakad Temples, etc.) Mysore - 144.5 km from Bangalore (Famous for Mysore Palace, Somanathapura Temple, Brindavan Gardens, Mysore Zoo, Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, etc.) Kabini - 211 km from Bangalore (Famous for Kabini Dam, Nagarhole National Park, etc.) Ooty - 274 km from Bangalore (Famous for Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Rose Garden, Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden) Coorg - 276 km from Bangalore (Famous for Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Golden Temple, Raja’s Seat, Iruppu Falls, Nagarhole National Park, etc.)

Which are the best places around Bangalore for 1 day trip for couples?

Which are the best one day trips from bangalore within 100 kms, which are the best one day trips from bangalore within 150 kms, what are the places to visit near bangalore for a one day trip in december, what are the places to visit near bangalore for one day trip in summers, which are the best day outing resorts near bangalore.

It is such a good idea to plan for a day out resort in Bangalore and following are the best day outing resorts near Bangalore for one day starting from Rs. 720 only.  Day Out At Guhantara Starting from Rs 1099 Only Day Out At Shilhaandara Resort Starting from Rs 999 Only Day Out At Rd Nature Retreat Starting from Rs 849 Only Day Out At Jain Farms Starting from Rs 720 Only Day Out At Vana Resort Starting from Rs 1009 Only Day Out At Elim Resort Starting From Rs 1011 Only

Where can I go for a long drive from Bangalore?

Long drives could be very exciting around Bangalore provided it is settled on the western ghats. You can go for a long drive from Bangalore to the following places: Bheemeshwari  - 102.5 km from Bangalore Shivanasamudra - 135 km from Bangalore Hogenakkal Waterfalls - 126 km from Bangalore BR Hills  - 172 km from Bangalore Yelagiri Hills  - 160 km from Bangalore

How can I spend 2 days in Bangalore?

What is the best time to visit bangalore, which is the coolest place in karnataka, what is the best time to go to nandi hills bangalore, is karnataka safe.

Trending in Bangalore

Camping in bangalore.

Bangalore Top Attractions

Lalbagh is one of the oldest botanical gardens in India and is also a major tourist attraction in South India. Located in South Bengaluru, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden is not only one of the largest botanical gardens in India, but also the first of its kind, with planned routes, glasshouses and ornamental flowers growing throughout the property.The garden itself is spread over an area of 240 acres and its construction was commissioned by the famous ruler Hyder Ali. It was finally completed by his son- Tipu Sultan- who designed the gardens keeping in mind the beautiful gardens of Sira in Tumkur District in Karnataka.Lalbagh is home to exotic flowers that were imported by the Sultan from countries like France, Persia, Arabia, Afghanistan, etc. Therefore, flowers that were previously never seen in India were first witnessed in this historical garden. Trees that were imported by Tipu Sultan from all over the world can still be found growing here.Apart from the exotic trees, visitors can also catch sight of some rare birds such as the Myna, pond heron, purple moorhen, parakeets, Brahminy kites, the common egret and much more. Apart from the stunning flora and fauna of the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, it has another striking attraction, which is the Lalbagh rock. This rock, which is said to be over 3000 years old, is one of the oldest rocks in the world and can be found in the center of the garden.

At the intersection of MG road and Residency road lies Brigade road which is considered a shopping paradise for the city dwellers. There is a long stretch of standalone shops, individual retailers, and outlet selling almost everything you need making it one the best Bangalore sightseeing. This commercial hubs houses myriads of global brand outlets as well and it has been a hub for celebrating New Year in the almost every year.

In the technology-driven, futuristic Silicon Valley of India, monuments of historical significance boasting of a glorious past are also abundant. The historical heritage of the city is so magnificent and eminent that it rises to prominence on its own. One such landmark is the Tudor style Bangalore Palace.The Palace is a perfect representation of the lavishness and splendour with which India's most resilient dynasties ruled. Famous for its opulent architecture and amusement activities, the Palace is visited by several visitors every day. The colossal Palace boasts of massive courtyards, bright interiors, kingly grounds, splendid spiral staircases, stately towers and a luscious garden in a proud display of posh regality.Anyone who admires classic architecture and artistry would be delighted to experience it first hand at this Palace. It also houses an amusement park in its enclave to the delight of many younger visitors. Having been a private residence to the Wodeyar family, Bangalore palace offers a linear perspective into the royal life of the forepassed era. It is plush with a vibrant and varied collection of ancient royal artefacts, paraphernalia, hunting trophies and family photos.The Palace houses some of the most famous paintings of the 19th Century, including the works of one of India's most celebrated artists Raja Ravi Verma. The Palace grounds very often become venues for concerts and festivals. World-renowned artists like Enrique and Guns N' Roses have graced the palace grounds with their talent and presence. The Palace hence combines the richness and luxury of royal history with the vivacious and exuberant demeanour of the youth. Bangalore Palace HistoryOriginally a property of Reverend J Garrett, the principal of a school in the cantonment town at that time, the area where the Palace is now located was purchased from him by the British Guardians of Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar for 40,000 rupees. The construction of the palace began in the year 1874. Mr John Cameron of Lalbagh was assigned the task of landscaping Palace along with its surroundings. The complete construction of the palace was completed in the year, 1878.The Palace saw many additions and modifications in its architecture in subsequent years. Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar added a few portions like the twin external staircase, the platform for musicians etc. outside the Durbar Hall. In 1970, HH Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar transferred ownership of the property to two companies, Chamundi Hotels and Shree Venkateshwara Real Estate Enterprises. However, this transaction was later shown to be fraudulent. A legal battle followed between this deal and Jayachamarajendra's son, Srikanta Datta. The five sisters of Srikanta Datta are now in possession of sections of the 28 acres of the Palace. In the year 1990 Srikant Datta finally compromised with the Chamaraju group and got back his part of the property including the main Palace except for 45 acres that the Chamaraju group still retains. Architecture:The Palace showcases exquisite wooden interiors surrounded by pristine walls. The Palace is enclosed within beautiful gardens. The architecture is a medley of Tudor style and Scottish style and has gothic undertones. A lot of physical artefacts inside are of British origin. It is said that the architecture of this building is inspired by that of the Windsor Castle and other architectural marvels of England and Normandy. The most prominent features of the Palace like the two-level granite structure of the fortified towers and turreted parapets take direct inspiration from the Tudor building styles. The entrance is decorated with grand Roman arches. The exterior of the building is covered in eccentric shapes and angles. The exterior walls are of a blushing cinnabar shade that gives the building a quaint Victorian vibe. The floor of the open courtyard of the Palace is adorned with granite seats covered with azure ceramic tiles. The ground floor also contains a beautifully decorated ballroom.The first floor of the Palace has a distinct chamber known as the Durbar Hall attached to an ornate staircase.This hall is famous for the enormous elephant head that is mounted in it and its gothic style tinted glass windows.  

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Paris in Just One Day: A Quick Exploration Guide!

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If you’ve got just one day in Paris and you’re wondering how to make the most of it, you’re in the right place. Having lived in this magical city since 2006, I’ve got the insider scoop on how to experience the best of Paris in a day.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re back for more, this itinerary is packed with must-see spots and local secrets. From the charming streets of Montmartre to the iconic Eiffel Tower , we’ll cover it all.

How to make the most out of your one day in Paris?

If you’ve ever searched for “perfect day in Paris” or “one day in Paris”, you’ve probably seen a bunch of guides and itineraries. I’ve looked through them too, and to be honest, they often leave me scratching my head.

Some are jam-packed to the brim, while others suggest you’ll barely have time to do anything. Let’s find a happy medium and plan a day in Paris that’s just right!

But let’s set the record straight: if you’re in Paris for just a day, you won’t tick off every highlight. But don’t think for a second that a one-day visit isn’t worth it. You can absolutely have a fantastic time and get a real taste of what Paris has to offer. Let’s make that day count!

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

A word of warning: This 1 day in Paris itinerary that I created for you is sportive, and you better pack your most comfortable walking shoes for Paris because you’ll be on your feet all day.

Also interesting:

• 2 days in Paris : read more here
• Paris first timer guide: read more here

In this guide I am aiming for that the sweet spot between sightseeing and joie de vivre. Because let’s be honest: you can visit the Louvre, but if you have only one or two spare hours, what’s the point?

And you can also just rush from one sight to another next on your Paris in one day tour. But if you don’t have a moment to just sit and enjoy a glass of wine on e terrace?

Visiting Paris is not a race . Paris is about pleasure and joy, about taking it all in, about being fully there.

Your Realistic iItinerary for One Day in Paris

I have been living in Paris for many years, and I put together a realistic itinerary of things to do in Paris in a day.

Everything you could and should do if you are in Paris for a day to make the most out of your stay and get a comprehensive impression of the city .

For a café on a patio and even a glass of wine at sunset. You will also see some of Paris’ most iconic sights , and I can assure you it won’t be the most stressful day of your life. And you most likely want to come back!)

What does this 1 day in Paris Itinerary cover? 

In a nutshell, these are the sights and activities you can be looking forward to if you are following more or less this one-day itinerary for Paris:

• Eiffel Tower
• Pyramid of the Louvre
• Seine River Cruise
• Sacré Coeur
• Shakespeare & Company
• Centre Pompidou
• The Bouquiniste
• a café in a Parisian street café
• of course: An authentic french croissant
• and: a glass of wine

If you are thinking now that I am out of my mind to be intending to squeeze all those activities to do in Paris in one day, that’s fair.

Though, I am good at coming up with efficient plans. Read on to see for yourself how you can maximize your day in Paris .

Paris in a Day Walking Distance: 9.5km ≡ Duration: 8h to 10h

Feel free to use the itinerary below as is, or think of it as a set of building blocks.

Depending on your schedule, energy, and personal preferences, you can easily skip parts like the Louvre Pyramid or Montmartre.

You might even want to start with Montmartre and skip the Marais. These modules are flexible and can be swapped around to suit your mood. This way, you can create a memorable day in Paris that’s tailored just for you.

Your 1 day in Paris Itinerary

Maybe you’re thinking of a quick stopover in Paris for a day while heading to Southern Europe. Or perhaps you’re in luck with a long layover in Paris, giving you enough time to venture into the city. And depending on where you’re based, a day trip to Paris could even be on the cards!

Either way, visiting Paris for one day is a fantastic way to get to know the city a bit.

If you need precise information regarding your arrival point, for example how to get into town from airports , where to park your car , etc., please read also the last section of this article

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Here’s your itinerary for one perfect day in Paris.

#1 Châtelet & Marais

Length: 4km | Duration: 1h30

Paris works really well when you’re short on time. It’s not a massive city, quite the opposite, actually, and most of its sights are centered around the same area.

That’s why I’ve picked Châtelet, a major metro and train station, as the starting point for this itinerary. Châtelet is a key public transport hub, making it easy to connect from wherever you’re arriving in Paris.

It’s directly linked to Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, and to major train stations like Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est, Gare Saint Lazare, and Gare de Lyon. So, getting here should be a breeze.

Tour de Saint-Jaques

After enjoying the obligatory French Croissant and are at the Metro station, head east. If you are unsure where east is, look out for the Tour de Saint-Jaques . The 52m high tower is the only remains of a gothic 16th-century church that got destroyed following the French Revolution in 1797.

Hôtel de Ville

Heading down the Rue de Rivoli, you will soon see the Hôtel de Ville , the Parisian mayor house, on your right. I suggest paying a visit to the tourist office that is located on the left side of the building.

It’s a good occasion to stuck up on some Paris knick-knack as a memory of your one-day trip to Paris, but the real reason why it’s worth to step in are the free temporary exhibitions!

24 hours in Paris – Visit the Marais! 

Starting from Hôtel de Ville, make your way north, passing the Centre Pompidou , and enter the Marais. This area was the aristocratic district of Paris until the French Revolution, and many historic buildings here are remnants of that era.

Post-revolution, the Marais transformed into a bustling commercial area and became the heart of Paris’ Jewish community . Nowadays, it’s also known as the center of LGBT culture in Paris and a hub for galleries, boutiques, trendy restaurants, and bars.

So if it comes down to what to see in Paris in one day, the Marais is definitely high up on the list. If you have a bit more time in Paris, the Marais is a wonderful district to take a walking tour for foodies!

Your Exact Itinerary: Châtelet & Marais

If you follow the itinerary below, you will come across the most interesting and representative sights within the Marais area.

The actual walking time in the Marais, according to Google, is about 53 minutes. But you should really allocate at least 1h30, if not 2 hours. The Marais is filled with charming shops and small galleries, and I did promise you’d have time for a café, right? Taking it slow here is part of the experience.

To save time, I suggest you have (an early) lunch in the Marais.

The Marais, with its strong Jewish and Middle Eastern influences, is a great spot for kosher food and, of course, falafel!

A top choice is L’As du Falafel on Rue des Rosiers . This famous falafel shop is even a favorite of Lenny Kravitz. That’s quite the endorsement (and honestly, the falafel really is delicious). You’ll spot it easily thanks to the queue, but don’t worry, they serve fast.

Alternatively, I can recommend Le Sabich Sandwich from Babka Zana near Place de Vosges on 8 rue du Pas de la Mule .

For more food ideas, check out our Paris Food Guide to discover the best eats in the city!

#2 Île de Saint-Louis

Length 300m | Duration 15min (if you make an ice cream stop!)

After you’ve visited the Shoah Memorial in the Marais, cross over the Pont Marie to reach Île Saint-Louis. While the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral might tempt you to detour, hold off for a bit — it’s not on our agenda just yet. Stay patient, there’s more to explore first!

Just when you set foot on the Île Saint-Louis, you’ll pass by Berthillon . It’s the most famous (and best) glacier in Paris, and their ice creams and sorbets are knowingly among the 10 best ice creams in the world . And isn’t time for a desert anyway? Treat yourself!

By the way, does the café in the picture above look familiar? It’s a filming location for Emily in Paris!

If you’ve got a little extra time and you’re still up for a walk, I recommend adding about 15 minutes to your schedule for some detours around Île Saint-Louis. It’s a really pleasant island and worth the extra exploration.

#3 Quartier Latin

Complete Loop 4 km |  Duration 1h30—2h

Shortcut Tour 1.2 km  |  Duration 20 – 40 min

The Quartier Latin, known as the traditional university district of Paris , still houses most of the city’s educational establishments. The area gets its name from its history — Latin used to be the language of academia!

Today, the Latin Quarter is a vibrant student hub , bustling with pubs, bars, markets, shops, and picturesque cobbled streets. It’s a lively part of the city that’s full of energy and character.

Given that you’ve already done a fair amount of walking today, it might be wise to keep your Latin Quarter tour relatively brief. The full loop on the map below is more suited for those who are particularly keen on exploring Paris or for those opting to rent a Vélib bike for quicker travel.

If you’re leaning towards the shorter route, head directly to Odette, marked as point G on the map. This will streamline your tour while still allowing you to experience a key part of the Latin Quarter.

Latin Quarter Shortcut Tour (If you lack time)

The shortcut itinerary through the Latin Quarter includes some iconic Parisian spots, starting with Odette .

This charming tea house is famous for its choux à la crème – a type of filled puff pastry. It’s a great place to either sit down for some people-watching with a tasty pastry or to grab some choux to go.

Just a short walk from Odette, you’ll find the renowned bookstore Shakespeare and Company . Specializing in English and American literature, this bookstore is a true Parisian institution and one of the city’s most unique spots.

If you’re short on time, Shakespeare and Company is a must-visit in Paris, even for just a day. It’s no longer a hidden gem , but it’s absolutely worth stepping inside to explore.

When you visit Shakespeare and Company, make sure to take in the view of Notre Dame from the first floor. And while you’re there, give some love to the resident cat who lives in the bookstore (not in Notre Dame!).

For a unique souvenir, any book you buy can be stamped upon request – a nice little touch to remember your visit.

If you haven’t grabbed a bite yet, the Latin Quarter offers plenty of lunch options. But a heads-up: try to avoid the restaurants around Rue de la Harpe.

They might be cheap and look tempting, but trust me, you can find much better food elsewhere in the area for just a bit more.

#4 Île de la Cité

Length 1,8 km | Duration 40 min (if you visit the Hôtel Dieu)

From the the Latin Quarter, just cross the St. Michel Bridge and finally head over to Notre Dame . Since the tragic incident in 2019, Notre Dame cannot be visited currently.

Some blinds are put in place, so you cannot get even close to Notre Dame. However, you can still snap some pictures and the Île-de-la-Cité has a few nice places to discover, for example, the Hôtel Dieu just left from Notre Dame.

It’s not a very time-consuming activity, but a real secret tip and definitely worth it! See our post here and know more about visiting .

Editor’s advice : if you are around Notre Dame, be extra wary of pickpockets and do not stop if some girls ask for your signature for something.

#5 Seine River Cruise – Time to Relax

Book your Ticket here | Duration 1h30 

After wandering through the Marais, much of the Latin Quarter and the Seine islands, you’ve definitely earned a break!

On the Seine Island Île de la Cité, where you currently are, you find the pier for the Seine River Cruise . It’s the perfect chance to just hop on and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river!

Taking a cruise on the Seine will not only let you relax and stretch your legs a wee bit after quite a busy day, but you will also see most of Paris’ important sights (at a very fair price!)

• Tour Eiffel
• Musée d’Orsay
• Musée de Louvre
• Île de la Cité
• Grand Palais
• Petit Palais
• Pont Alexandre III

There are many companies in Paris that are offering Cruises on the Seine and one is usually as good as the other, but most of them are leaving at the Eiffel Tower. So not at all where you are.

If you are visiting Paris only for a very short time and following my itinerary, you need to book a Seine Cruise with Vedettes de Pont Neuf . It’s the only company that starts in the center of Paris.

I strongly recommend booking  your Seine cruise in advance , as some time slots are very popular and superfast sold out. Check here for availabilities, schedules, and rates .

Tip : The boats are leaving from the Seine island Île de la Cité and the entrance is next to the statue of Henry IV, in the middle of Pont Neuf.

#6 The Pyramid of the Louvre

Length 1,1 km | Duration 14 min 

The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum and is located in the former king’s palace, the Palais du Louvre. It’s also the largest art museum of the world, with more than 30.000 exhibited objects on 72.735 square meters.

But bad news first : you won’t have time to visit the Louvre if you are on a one day trip to Paris.

That being said, if you skip one or two of the suggested itineraries, you could make it. Just think about purchasing your tickets in advance, as even a museum like the Louvre can be sold out. Click here to reserve your spot!

Need help deciding? Read this article: Is the Louvre Worth It? Your No-Nonsense Guide

The great news is, you’ve got time to see the famous Pyramid of the Louvre . This glass pyramid, situated in the main courtyard of the Louvre, was inaugurated in 1988.

Initially, it wasn’t widely embraced, but today, it stands as one of Paris’ key landmarks. Interestingly, it’s not just one pyramid – there’s also an inverted glass pyramid inside, a fact you might recognize if you’ve seen the film or read Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code” .

It’s a striking piece of architecture that blends modern and historical elements, making it a must-see on your Paris trip.

(Well, there are 4 Pyramids, but those 2 are the most significant)

#7 Montmartre & the Sacre Cœur

Length 700m | Duration 25min – if you linger

Montmartre is one of Paris’ loveliest areas, and if you’ve still got a bit of energy left, consider taking an Uber up north. (The Metro is also an option, about a 30-minute ride.)

When you arrive at Abbesses Metro station, take some time to grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. I personally recommend Comptoir Breizh .

It’s a traditional Crêperie serving both sweet and savory dishes, and their offerings are truly delicious. It’s a great way to wrap up your day with some authentic French cuisine.

Right next to the Abbesses Metro station, you’ll find your first Montmartre highlight: “ Le mur des je t’aime” or the Wall of Love. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo. Then, get ready to head uphill.

Yes, there are a few stairs involved, but soon you’ll arrive at “Place du Tertre” , the famous square bustling with painters ready to sketch your portrait.

And just a bit further, you reach the grand finale of your one-day Paris adventure: the majestic Basilica of Sacre Coeur . What better way to end an amazing day than by watching the city lights come on at night from this stunning vantage point?

P.S.: Don’t forget to grab some beers or wine to enjoy as you take in the breathtaking view.

Editor’s advice: A s you descend the stairs at Sacre Coeur, keep an eye out for individuals who might approach you to tie a friendship bracelet around your wrist, often expecting money in return.

The best strategy is to simply ignore them and walk past quickly. They’re not dangerous, just quite persistent and can be annoying. Being aware and moving on swiftly is your best bet.

How to organize your day trip to Paris?

No matter how long or short you stay in Paris, there are always a few things to organize.

The most common question for travelers is understandably about how to get to Paris in the first place.

If you’re arriving by car, finding a convenient and reasonably priced parking spot is crucial. On the other hand, if you’re flying in, it’s important to know the best ways to get from the airport into the city.

The following articles will be interesting for you:

• 5 ways to get from Charles de Gaulle airport to Paris: THE complete guide!
• How to use the Parisian Metro in 2022!
• Paris by bike: How to rent a bike in Paris in 2022!

1 Day in Paris: Transportation & Accomodation

Each mode of arrival requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth start to your Paris adventure.

Arriving in Paris by Plane

The paris layover tour.

If you are traveling internationally in or out of Europe with a connection in Paris, you might have some waiting time between flights. You can also plan an easy overnight layover to benefit from the occasion to explore Paris.

Paris isn’t very far from the airport, and it’s easily possible to use a layover by visiting Paris.

How to get to Paris from the Airport?

Paris has 2 airports: Roissy/Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in the north and Orly (ORY) in the south. Both airports are connected to Paris by RER B (Parisian express train) with several inner-city stops.

By Public Transport

The train from the airport , whether it’s Orly or Charles de Gaulle, takes around 45 minutes to Châtelet, the center of Paris.

By Private Transport

If you are short on time and don’t want to stress about figuring out public transportation, you can also easily book a private transfer from the airport to Paris.

I recommend you to check with Welcome Pickup because they are reliable, speak English and track your flight to be aware of delays.

Check here our very extensive guide on how to get from CDG airport to Paris!

Where to stay when traveling by Plane?

If your layover requires reserving a hotel, you can either check in to a hotel close by the airport or spend the night in Paris.

However, it depends on your flight departure time. If your plane is scheduled before noon, I suggest staying close to the airport. Traffic in Paris can be VERY busy, both on roads and public transportation.

Where to stay near Charles de Gaulle Airport (Roissy)?

A few Hotels are located directly on the Airport premise, so you don’t have to worry about transportation in the morning. The best Hotels are:

• Ibis Paris CDG (Budget)
• Innside by Melia Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Midrange)
• Pullman Paris Roissy Cdg Airport (Upscale)

Where to stay near Orly Airport?

If you are leaving from Orly in the south, you have less of a choice because there are only two hotels in the airport area. Both are good and convenient:

• ibis Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport (Midrange)
• Novotel Paris Coeur d’Orly Airport (Upscale)

Arriving in Paris by Car

If you’re heading north or south or are on a road trip through Europe, you might find yourself arriving in Paris by car . However, having a car in Paris isn’t really ideal.

I strongly recommend against driving into the city center and also suggest avoiding street parking. The traffic in Paris can be intense, and finding a parking spot is often a challenge.

Moreover, leaving all your luggage in your car while you’re out exploring Paris is not a good idea.

It’s better to find a secure parking solution or consider alternative transportation options once you’re in the city to ensure your belongings stay safe and you avoid the stress of navigating Parisian traffic.

There are many paid and surveilled parking places all around town that are close to public transportation. You can find your convenient location and even book a parking place ahead of your arrival.

You can do that for example here , but there are many parking place providers in Paris.

Rent a Hotel with Parking Place

If you’re planning to stay overnight in Paris and have a car, booking a hotel with private parking can solve your parking dilemma. I recommend checking out these hotel options.

All of them are conveniently located near Metro stations, ensuring quick access to the city center. Plus, they’re situated just far enough from the heart of the city to avoid getting caught in Paris’ notorious traffic.

This way, you get the best of both worlds – ease of travel and a stress-free place to park your vehicle.

However, parking is not free and all hotels charge a minimum of €20 per day.

Mama Shelter East: ultra-modern hotel with iMacs in each room. The hotels also have an in-house restaurant, a Pizzeria, and a bar.

Le Mireille: The nice French hotel lies nearby to the Sacre Coeur. The location is perfect for everyone who is following our one-day in Paris itinerary, as the Sacre Coeur is the end of the tour!

Arriving in Paris by Train

If you’re traveling to Paris from London, Brussels, or Cologne, you’ll most likely arrive at Gare du Nord. On the other hand, if you’re coming from the south of France, your arrival point will probably be Gare de Lyon.

Conveniently, each of these train stations is connected to Châtelet by a direct Metro line , and the journey takes about 10 minutes.

A single ride Metro ticket costs €1,90 at the time of writing and can be loaded on a Navigo Easy Travel card that you either buy at the station for €2 or load on your phone for free.

Where to stay in Paris for one night?

If you are looking for a hotel in Paris for one night, it’s best to stay in the center of Paris. This way, you are saving time in public transportation, you get the full Paris flair, and you are quickly everywhere.

But it is hard to choose the right Hotel in Paris, I know. That’s why I have a few Paris hotel guides that will help you find your perfect accommodation.

• 5 most convenient Ibis Hotels in Paris  – Budget Hotel Guide
• 14 Hotels with stunning Eiffel Tower views- for (almost) every budget!
• The best Hotels in Montmartre; for every budget!

If you’re planning to follow this itinerary and need to catch a flight from Charles de Gaulle Airport later, it’s actually a smart idea to look for a hotel in Montmartre .

This location offers you a convenient route back after a day of sightseeing, and it also means a shorter trip to the airport, as both Montmartre and Roissy Airport are in the northern part of the city.

Plus, Montmartre is an incredibly beautiful area, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee before you head to the airport. Staying there not only simplifies your logistics but also adds a charming start to your departure day.

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FAQ: One Day in Paris

One day in Paris may not be enough to explore the city to its core, but it is enough time to get a good glimpse of the city and to take in that exceptional Paris vibe.

Absolutely. Paris is surprisingly small, especially if you compare it to London, Berlin, or New York. Everything is close together, and crossing Paris on foot from North to South takes not even 3 hours. If you stroll around Paris for one day, you see a lot and surely can check off a few of your bucket list items.

Paris is a safe city to visit, especially if you roam around the center. However, avoid having your valuables at places, that are easily accessible because pickpockets are everywhere.

Paris is easily visited from London for a day. The Eurostar takes not even 2.5 hours from London to Paris, and the station is very close to attractions and sights.

The cheapest way to travel around Paris is the Metro, 1,90€ one way.

If you find this post useful, share it! 🙂

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The Happiness Function US

My Husband and I Did a 5-Day Road Trip Along the Most Iconic Highway in California: Here's Where To Stay, Eat, & Play

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

Our 5-day Highway 1 Road Trip itinerary covers Avila Beach, Cayucos, Cambria, San Simeon, and Baywood-Los Osos along the Central Coast of California in San Luis Obispo County.

A road trip along California’s famous Highway 1 is a bucket list trip if you love adventures with ocean views, wildlife, and fun outdoor activities.

My husband, Pablo, and I drove from San Luis Obispo (SLO) to San Simeon and are sharing what we did to help you plan your trip. From hiking and kayaking to foraging for seaweed, discover things to do, find the best places to eat (gluten-free friendly), and learn where to stay.

When Highway 1 Road Trip invited us for a hosted adventure, we jumped at the chance because we’d been dreaming of driving the iconic route for years.

How To Get There and Where To Start

If you’re not from California, like us, fly into the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP). It’s a small airport and easy to get in and out of.

You’ll want to rent a car if you’re flying in. Pick up your vehicle at the airport by the baggage claim area (it’s super easy).

Start your adventure right from the airport and head southwest towards the coast to kick the day off at Avila Beach.

If you’re not flying in, no problem. Still, start at Avila Beach.

Where To Stay

Highway 1 is known for its cute artisan communities recognized for their laid-back coastal vibe. You can find boutique hotels and motels or inns overlooking the ocean. It’s the perfect road trip for adventurous couples and friends.

The Pacific Motel – Cayucos

We stayed at The Pacific Motel in Cayucos for half our road trip.

The owners take pride in what they have built. The motel has a hip surfer ambiance that is ideal for people wanting a relaxing and casual adventure near Cayucos. The rooms are trendy and within walking distance of the beach. They also serve a nice coffee bar in the morning.

The motel has fire pits, ping pong, a cute shop that supports local businesses, beach towels, beach chairs, and a beer and wine cooler. Guests can use beach cruisers from The Pacific Motel to get around town if they don’t want to walk.

It’s one of the cutest places we have stayed at, and we loved walking to breakfast and the beach every morning.

The Baywood Inn – Baywood-Los Osos

When we walked into our room at the Baywood Inn , we immediately ran to the huge windows and balcony facing Morro Bay.

Staying here is like staying in an apartment. There is a living room with vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, a small kitchenette, a bathroom, and a bedroom. It’s within walking distance of a handful of restaurants and an excellent location to access hiking, kayaking, and the Morro Bay Marina.

Breakfast is complimentary with your stay. When you check-in, the inn will tell you which restaurant is hosting breakfast.

Best Time To Visit

The Central Coast of California has a Mediterranean climate, meaning you can visit year-round. However, depending on the type of adventures you want, like getting in or on the water, spring, summer, and fall will have warmer temperatures. June, July, and August are busy, so be sure to plan ahead if you travel during the summer.

We visited during April. It was warm enough to wear a light jacket. Every day was sunny except for two days when the famous coastal fog rolled in. It was neat to see the fog, so it didn’t mess up our plans. We still hiked and explored until it burned off later in the day.

The wildflowers bloomed during our spring trip, and we saw the Elephant Seals. I can’t recommend the beauty of traveling along Highway 1 in the spring enough.

Explore Avila Beach, drive to Cayucos, check into The Pacific Motel, then walk Moonstone Beach in Cambria

Kick the adventure off by driving straight to Mersea’s for food near Avila Beach. We both got fish tacos – they were so good.

The restaurant is at the end of a pier. You might also see seals hanging out on the platform (we did). The water is a beautiful blue, and it will take your breath away.

After eating at Mersea’s, drive to Avila Beach a little down the road. You can access the beach here, and there are a bunch of boutique shops and restaurants.

Hit the road, drive towards Cayucos, and check into The Pacific Motel . If there’s still time in the day, drive a little further north towards Cambria and walk the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk .  It’s pretty at sunset.

For dinner, Pablo and I had a wonderful garden patio dinner at Robin’s Restaurant in Cambria. When we visited, they served mouthwatering, handcrafted meals and even had gluten-free cheesecake. If you’re road-tripping with your dog, pets are allowed on their darling patio.

Day 2 – Morning

Tour Hearst Castle in San Simeon  

Rise and shine. Then, walk to breakfast at the Hidden Kitchen in Cayucos. They have gluten-free waffles and breakfast tacos that are out of this world. Sit out back on their patio and enjoy oceanfront views.

After breakfast, hop in your car and drive Highway 1 north towards San Simeon to tour Hearst Castle . With the help of architect Julia Morgan, media mogul William Randolph Hearst funded the elaborate estate—the “who’s who” of the entertainment industry would retreat here by invitation only.

Today, you can take a guided tour to see all the magnificent art William Randolph Hearst collected from around the world. We thought the most interesting parts of the tour were walking through the gardens, seeing the Neptune Pool and the Egyptian Fountain, and walking across gold-plated tile in the Roman Pool. Online reservations to take a tour can be made 60 days in advance.

After we visited the castle, we drove to the Cavalier Coastal Kitchen . I ordered a BLTA on gluten-free bread, and Pablo got a fried chicken wrap that hit the spot. If you’d like to take in the views, a path is near the parking lot that overlooks the ocean. You might have the beach to yourself — we did.

Day 2 – Afternoon

Visit the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery near San Simeon and go seaweed foraging in Cayucos

Drive to the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to work off your food coma. Located right off Highway 1, park your car and walk the trails along the coast to see the seals basking in the sun.

Walk to the north of the parking lot if you want to take photos — it has better vantage points. Watching the Elephant Seals was one of my favorite parts of our trip. Plus, it’s free to see them.

Did you know you can eat other seaweed besides the nori found around your sushi roll? During a seaweed foraging tour with Kelpful , you’ll learn all about the seaweed you can gather and eat. You can only do this special eco-activity when the tide is low. Visit Kelpful’s online scheduler to make a reservation.

We met our guide outside of Cayucos and walked down to the tide pools. We tasted raw seaweed from the ocean and saw crabs and an octopus while exploring. The experience was heartfelt, informative, and inspired us.

For dinner, check out the Lunada Garden Bistro . We walked there from our motel in Cayucos. They served up some of the best steaks we’ve ever had – and that’s not an exaggeration.

Day 3 – Morning

Hike Fiscalini Ranch Preserve outside of Cambria

From The Pacific Motel, walk to breakfast at Bijou Bakery in Cayucos . They have delicious gluten-free pastries (I got a lemon scone) and regular pastries (Pablo got a croissant). After enjoying a lovely breakfast on their patio, head back to the motel and pack up. Check out and drive toward Cambria to hike the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve .

We loved the trail along the bluff. There are neat spots to sit along the trail that remind us of Games of Thrones . Keep your eyes peeled for Harbor Seals – we saw one hanging out on the rocks. It’s free to hike here.

After, head into Cambria for lunch at Linn’s Restaurant . Try their famous Olallieberry pie – they have a gluten-free and regular pie crust. We were in pie Heaven.

Day 3 – Afternoon

Check into the Baywood Inn and walk El Moro Elfin Forest in the Baywood-Los Osos area

In the afternoon, drive south towards San Luis Obispo and check into the Baywood Inn . If you still have energy, drive and explore the El Moro Elfin Forest . It’s about a 5–10-minute drive from the inn, and you can get good views of the estuary. It’s free to hike here.

For dinner, Noi & Doi’s 2 nd Street Café , across from the Baywood Inn, serves some fantastic Thai food. The beef fried rice and green curry with tofu did not disappoint. We got ours to go and enjoyed a sunset dinner from our inn overlooking Morro Bay.

Day 4 – Morning

Kayak in Morro Bay  

If hungry, drive 10 minutes into Los Osos and grab breakfast at Celia’s Garden Café . Pablo ordered corned beef hash, and I ordered an omelet. It reminded me of a good old fashion diner breakfast — they give you huge portions of food.

After breakfast, drive to A Kayak Shack at the Morro Bay State Park Marina. The manager at A Kayak Shack said the best time to paddle is early morning before the winds pick up, so keep that in mind. We did a self-guided trip and cruised around the bay. It was terrific, and we even saw otters.

Make sure you stay at least eight kayaks length away from the otters so you don’t stress them. If they get stressed, they could have trouble finding food or taking care of their young.

After kayaking, have lunch at the Bayside Café across from A Kayak Shack. Guess what we had? If you guessed fished tacos – you’re our people.

Day 4 – Afternoon

Hike at Monta ña de Oro State Park outside of Baywood-Los Osos

Montaña de Oro State Park is one of the largest state parks in California. We used AllTrails to find a hike that suited our adventure level for the afternoon. We walked along the Bluff Trail and loved it.

Along with a beach to sun at and enjoy the water, the Bluff Trail wanders along the ridge, and you get fantastic views of the ocean and rocky coastline. We even saw more otters (or seals) frolicking in the waves.

After hiking, if you’re up for some tasty Mexican cuisine, walk to La Palapa across from the Baywood Inn. I ordered chicken enchiladas, and Pablo enjoyed the carne asada. It hit the spot.

Check out of your inn, go to breakfast, and drive to the SBP Airport

On your last day, check out of your inn and head to breakfast in Los Osos. We grabbed pastries and lattes at Ascendo . It is right across from Celia’s Garden Café.

They did offer gluten-free muffins while we were there. I grabbed a gluten-free blueberry muffin and a chai latte, and Pablo ordered a croissant and latte.

After, find a place to gas up your rental and return to the SBP Airport.

We couldn’t believe how fast the trip went and were sad to leave. We honestly sat in the airport looking at real estate because we loved visiting so much and were dreaming about living in this area full-time.

More Towns To Explore Along Highway 1 Nearby

If you have more time in the area, you might also enjoy visiting Ragged Point, further north of San Simeon.

The Edna Valley wine region, Arroyo Grande Valley, Oceano, and Nipomo are south of San Luis Obispo.

Have a wonderful time. The area truly is remarkable.

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Frontier offers 1-day sale: Book $43 round-trip flights only on Earth Day

Celebrate Earth Day in the air with a one-day sale from "America's Greenest Airline."

Frontier Airlines announced that it will celebrate what it says is its status as "America's Greenest Airline" with an Earth Day sale. The airline will offer $43 fares on round-trip domestic flights in the US, plus one-way fares to and from Puerto Rico.

The $43 price tag was chosen to celebrate what Frontier says is its 43% higher fuel efficiency compared to other major U.S. carriers, based on 2023 fuel consumption per seat-mile.

“Our constant dedication to enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing our environmental footprint enables us to maintain our position as America’s Greenest Airline,” said Tyri Squyres, vice president of marketing at Frontier Airlines, in a recent news release.

How long does Frontier's $43 deal last?

Fares must be purchased by 11:59 pm Eastern time on April 22. Sale fares are valid for nonstop travel on Tuesday and Wednesday, through Jun. 30, 2024; and Aug. 15, 2024, through Oct. 31, 2024, except on blackout date Sep. 3, 2024.

See more details on the Frontier website, and see below for N.C. flight destinations from Frontier Airlines.

More: Asheville Airport Update: New terminal underway for $400M AVL Forward project

Frontier flights from CLT - Charlotte Douglas International Airport

From Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Frontier offers flights to the following destinations:

• Orlando, Florida
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• New York City, New York
• Denver, Colorado
• San Juan, Puerto Rica
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Buffalo, New York
• Dallas, Texas
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Trenton, New Jersey
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Houston, Texas
• Chicago, Illinois
• Cincinnati, Ohio

More: Answer Woman: Are low-cost airfare promotions worth it after baggage costs, fees?

Frontier flights from RDU - Raleigh-Durham International Airport

From Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Frontier offers flights to the following destinations:

• Miami, Florida
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Tampa, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Detroit, Michigan
• Portland, Maine
• Hartford, Connecticut
• Syracuse, New York
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].

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Tashkent & Samarkand 4-Day Cultural Odyssey

April 17, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 4-day cultural odyssey through the historic cities of Tashkent and Samarkand with Trip.com. Your journey begins in Samarkand, a crossroad of cultures, where you'll visit the majestic Gur Emir Mausoleum, a testament to Timurid architecture. Next, marvel at the grandeur of Registan Square, followed by the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, an emblem of ancient Islamic art. Wander through the vibrant Siab Bazaar, absorbing the local flavors before paying respects at the sacred Shah-i-Zinda cemetery. Day two introduces you to the Afrasiyab Settlement, unveiling the layers of Samarkand's history. The nearby Afrosiab History Museum offers a deeper understanding of the region's past, while Saint Daniel's Tomb provides a serene retreat. Conclude the day with astronomical insights at the Ulugh Beg Observatory. Transition to Tashkent on day three, where the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan awaits, followed by a performance at the Alisher Navoiy Theater. Stroll through Amir Temur Square and delve into the legacy of the great conqueror at the State Museum of the Temurids. Your final day in Tashkent includes a unique ride on the historic Metro Taschkent, panoramic views from the Tashkent TV tower, and spiritual visits to the Hazrati Imam and Teleshayakh Mosques. The Hazrati Imam complex rounds off your trip with its tranquil courtyards and rich history. This itinerary promises a blend of architectural marvels, historical intrigue, and cultural immersion, curated for the discerning traveler by Trip.com.

• Day 1: Unveiling the Historical Gems of Samarkand

Gur Emir Mausoleum

Begin your Samarkand adventure with a visit to the majestic Gur Emir Mausoleum, a resting place of royalty that whispers tales of the past. Nestled on Oksaroi Street, this historic site serves as a silent guardian of history, with its intricate architecture and solemn atmosphere offering a poignant start to your journey through time.

Attraction Info

• Oksaroi St. 1, Samarkand 140164 Uzbekistan
• Open from 4/1-10/31,8:00am-7:00pm;Open from 11/1-3/31,9:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Next, let the grandeur of the Registan Square take your breath away. As the heart of ancient Samarkand, this iconic square is surrounded by monumental madrasahs that have stood the test of time. Spend an hour marveling at the splendor of the tile work and the echoes of scholarly pursuits that once filled the air.

• Registon ko'chasi, Samarqand, Uzbekistan
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 8:00am-11:00pm

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

A short stroll away lies the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, a monument dedicated to the remarkable strength of a woman's love. Half an hour here allows you to absorb the mosque's monumental scale and beauty, reflecting the ambition of a bygone era and the enduring spirit of Samarkand.

• Bibikhonim Str., Samarqand, Uzbekistan
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 9:00am-8:00pm

Siab Bazaar

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and lively chatter of the Siab Bazaar. This bustling market is the perfect place to spend an hour sampling local flavors, engaging with friendly vendors, and picking up unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Uzbek culture.

• Bibikhonim Str., Samarkand 140164 Uzbekistan
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour

Shah-i-Zinda

Conclude your day with the serene beauty of Shah-i-Zinda, a necropolis that houses an avenue of mausoleums. Here, history is etched into every tile and corridor, offering a tranquil retreat to reflect on the day's experiences as you wander for an hour amidst the stories of those who shaped Samarkand.

• MX7Q+257, M-37, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 7:00am-10:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Khan hotel samarkand, the afrasiyab palace.

• Day 2: Unveiling the Historical Tapestry of Samarkand

Afrasiyab Settlement

Begin your second day in the ancient city of Samarkand with a journey back in time at the Afrasiyab Settlement. Once a bustling hub of the Silk Road, this historic site offers a unique glimpse into the past with its sprawling ruins that tell tales of a civilization that thrived here over a millennium ago.

• Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Afrosiab History Museum

Just a stone's throw from the echoes of antiquity, the Afrosiab History Museum stands as a custodian of the region's rich heritage. Housing an impressive collection of artifacts, the museum brings to life the grandeur of Samarkand's history through its exhibits, from ancient frescoes to relics of bygone eras.

• Toshkent yo'li, Samarqand, Uzbekistan
• Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Saint Daniel's Tomb

Continue your exploration of Samarkand's spiritual legacy at Saint Daniel's Tomb. Set aside a contemplative two hours to wander through this revered cemetery, where the intermingling of various religious traditions reflects the city's storied past and the tomb's significance as a pilgrimage site.

• Toshkent yo'li, Samarkand 140164 Uzbekistan
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Ulugh Beg Observatory

Cap off your day with a visit to the Ulugh Beg Observatory, an astronomical marvel that once charted the stars under the guidance of its namesake prince-astronomer. Spend two hours marveling at the ingenuity of ancient scientists, and let the monument's history inspire you as the skies above Samarkand begin to twinkle at dusk.

• M2F4+W7M, Toshkent yo'li, Samarqand, Uzbekistan
• Open from 8:00am-8:00pm

Gala Osiyo Samarkand

Al-hilal hostel.

• Day 3: Time Travel in Tashkent - Museums, Theatres, and Squares

Alisher Navoiy Theater

After delving into the past, elevate your cultural experience at the Alisher Navoiy Theater, located at 28 Bukhara Street. This architectural gem is not just a venue for spectacular performances but also a testament to the grandeur of Uzbek arts. With a stay time of an hour, you can explore the opulent interiors and perhaps catch a glimpse of a rehearsal or two. The theater's ambiance and intricate design are sure to leave you with a lasting impression of Tashkent's vibrant cultural scene.

• Moustafa Kamoul Atatürk, 28 Bukhara Street, Tashkent 100029, Uzbekistan

City Palace Hotel Tashkent

Hyatt regency tashkent.

• Day 4: Tashkent's Timeless Treasures

Metro Taschkent

Begin your final day with a journey through history aboard the Metro Taschkent. As the first stop on today's itinerary, this isn't just a means of transportation but a subterranean gallery of historic buildings, each station uniquely adorned with thematic decorations reflecting Uzbek culture and history. Marvel at the intricate designs and the stories they tell as you transit to your next destination.

• Little Ring Rd, Tashkent 100097 Uzbekistan

Tashkent TV tower

Elevate your perspective at the Tashkent TV tower, the second stop of the day. Spend an hour at this towering marvel, which offers an observation deck for a panoramic view of the city. It's not just about the view; the tower itself is a symbol of modernity and progress, standing as a testament to Uzbekistan's growth and development.

• 109, Amir Temur Str., Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Hazrati Imam Mosque

Step into serenity at the Hazrati Imam Mosque, your third destination. Set aside an hour to embrace the tranquility and architectural splendor of this mosque and monument. As a pivotal site of worship and culture, the mosque's intricate designs and spiritual atmosphere offer a reflective respite from the bustling city life.

• Khast Imam Mosque, Zarkaynar St

Teleshayakh Mosque

Continue your spiritual journey at the Teleshayakh Mosque, the fourth highlight of your day. With another hour at this religious place, you'll have time to appreciate the mosque's significance to the local community, its beautiful architecture, and the peaceful environment that surrounds it.

• Zarkaynar Street, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Hotel Inspira-S Tashkent

Friday old city by hotelpro group.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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