A sign welcomes visitors to San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter (Photo: Leandro Neumann Ciuffo via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

From evening entertainment hot spots to cultural venues that stay open till late, the famously raucous fun and adventure offered to visitors across San Diego endures well into the night. Whatever your nocturnal predilections, you’re guaranteed to find something to suit your after-hours desires here. And if that hasn’t convinced you, we’ve created a comprehensive list of 12 great activities and attractions for you to enjoy in San Diego at night.

Hit the Gaslamp Quarter

No visit to San Diego is complete without visiting its famous Gaslamp Quarter. The beating heart of the city’s nightlife and entertainment scene, the bustling district – which was named for its forward-looking use of dozens of gas lamps to light the streets – is jammed full of international restaurants, nightclubs, sidewalk bars, live music and comedy venues, theatres, specialty shops. and boutiques staying open till late, helping make it a fun-packed place to spend an evening that, inevitably, turns into a night.

Enjoy a sundowner on the beach

Home to over 70 miles of idyllic coastline and perfect year-round weather, it’s little surprise that San Diego’s myriad of glistening beaches attract pleasure-seekers at night as well as during the day. And one of the most popular evening beachside activities is to order an enticing drink from one of the many beach bars that line the city’s vast stretch of golden sand, pull up a deckchair or sun lounger, and listen to the waves gently lap the shore as you sip on your beverage of choice.

Beachgoers relax on a San Diego sandy shore at sunset (Photo: Martha Jimenez via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Catch a theatre show

Among the many opportunities to take in some evening culture in San Diego’s, a trip to the theatre tops many visitors lists. The city boasts two venerable old theatre houses – The Old Globe, which dates back to 1935, and The Civic Theatre, which opened in 1965 – with both putting on a regular programme of performances. The Civic in particular is a popular night-time venue, with many theatre-goers taking the chance to dress up for an evening watching such distinguished troupes as Broadway San Diego and San Diego Opera, as well as piano concerts, orchestras, and interactive shows.

Sip a cocktail while exploring a museum

One of the city’s most prestigious cultural venues, on the  third Friday of every month the San Diego Natural History Museum stays open until 10pm, allowing visitors the unique opportunity chance to explore its exhibition rooms after hours. As well as all of the venue’s usual exhibit spaces, there’s also an atmospheric rooftop deck  where you can buy a wide variety of alcoholic and kids’ drinks while soaking up the superb views of Balboa Park. For an extra frisson of fun, you can even venture back indoors to take in the museum artefacts with an exotic cocktail in hand.

1788 El Prado, Balboa Park

The entrance to San Diego Natural History Museum illuminated at night (Photo:San Diego Natural History Museum)

Go on a magical cave diving adventure

Situated 12 miles north of downtown San Diego, the famous sea caves of La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve makes for a popular excursion from the city. Carved out of sandstone cliffs, the seven caves are truly unique attractions, with six of them only accessible by water, and one of the most enthralling ways to explore the caves is by diving into their inky waters after sunset. But the journey is equally as good as the destination, and s you paddle your way by kayak to the eye-catching formations, you’re likely to see such exotic creatures as seals, California sea lions, harbour porpoises, sea otters, sea birds, leopard sharks, and more.

Join an after-dark guided city tour

San Diego is a sight to behold at all times of day, but never more so than after dark, when its famous sites are illuminated against the night sky. This 1.5-hour guided night tour with a professional guide invites visitors to hop aboard a trolley bus and enjoy the views as you cruise past some of the city’s most notable landmarks. Highlights include Balboa Park, where buildings, fountains, and statues glow bright at night; Coronado’s Ferry Landing to take in the city skyline; and Embarcadero’s waterfront, where you’ll see the USS Midway Museum and Navy aircraft carriers from across the bay. Along the route, a mix of music and on-board narration will add to the experience.

Book at GetYourGuide

The USS Midway in downtown San Diego (Photo: Historic Tours of America / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

Spend the evening at a world-renowned zoo

Another popular daytime attraction that can also be visited at night is the world-famous San Diego Zoo. From June through to September, the acclaimed wildlife park and botanical garden opens its doors until 9pm for the chance to see the venue’s array of wildlife – including over 12,000 rare and endangered animals – as well as listen to  live music from the zoo’s in-house rock and pop band, join in interactive dance contests, witness captivating acrobats, and plenty more entertainment for all the family.  While some are moved off habitat, many of the zoo’s nocturnal creatures stick around and are more active during these extended hours.

 2920 Zoo Drive 

Enjoy a gourmet dinner cruise

Gentle bay breezes, sparkling waves, and peerless natural beauty make San Diego ideal for cruising. This delectable dinner cruise combines all of the above with a slap-up three-course menu and live onboard entertainment. Over the course of three hours, you’ll get to enjoy views of the city skyline from the deck, spot local wildlife in the waters,  and watch the sun set. Later, you’ll sit down to a freshly-prepared dinner to be enjoyed against a backdrop of ambient DJ music, which then continues into the evening.

Book at GetYourGuide

Guests enjoying their meal during an evening dinner cruise (Photo: City Cruises by Hornblower / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

Get spooked on a city ghost tour

While San Diego may be best known for beaches and sunshine, the city does have a darker side. This 1.15-hour Ghosts and Gravestones tour invites intrepid visitors to hear tales of gamblers, gunslingers, and other shady characters whose spirits are said to live beyond the grave, and be on the lookout for paranormal activity as you visit graveyards, historic buildings, and other landmarks that one could quite easily imagine are haunted. Part of the experience is a walking tour and part takes place aboard a trolley bus.

Book at Viator

Attend a fun-filled foodie festival

Each November, local, national and international culinary figures gather at San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival for a celebration of all that is good about wine, food and craft beer. Held at a different venue every year, the week-long festival takes place against an unbeatable backdrop of the San Diego skyline and bay. In addition to the gourmet treats on offer, there are also, celebrity chefs, guest mixologists, award–winning authors, cookery demonstrations, wine-tasting classes and auctions, as well as and several late-night events and parties with live music and DJs.

November each year

A pitmaster cooks up a meaty treaty at San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival (Photo: San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival)

Watch an outdoor summer concert

Listening to the distinctive orchestral sounds of the San Diego Symphony makes for a great night out at any time of year, but catching one of their summer concerts at the Rady Shell open-air music venue in Jacob’s Park is a particular treat. Situated on the pier in Embarcadero, just minutes from downtown, be sure t to arrive early to secure a prime spot for listening to these world-class performers among packed crowds of fellow music lovers. Concerts usually begin at 7.30pm and last up to 10pm.

Get a close-up look at the star-lit sky

Astronomy enthusiasts visiting San Diego might be in for a treat as once a month the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park plays host to a dazzling star-gazing event. If the starts align (get it?) and you happen to be in town on the first Wednesday of any given month, then head to the prestigious science museum and planetarium to take part in a memorable Star Party. Hosted by the San Diego Astronomy Association (SDAA), huge telescopes are set up within the grounds outside the museum, with guests given the opportunity to admire the millions of twinkling starts sprinkled across the night sky.

Fleet Science Center, 1875 El Prado

The post 12 Things to Do at Night in San Diego appeared first on TravelMag.

(Photo: Venezia Unica by Vela Spa / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

A true architectural masterpiece, the magnificent palace was originally built in 1340 and has since been extended and modified multiple times, with its jaw-dropping sculptural decoration we see today dating from a variety of periods. If you’d like to visit the famous attraction, there are two choices: buying general admission tickets and exploring the palace solo, or booking onto an organised guided tour. We’ve compared 5 of the best options below.

Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket

With these skip-the-line reserved tickets, you can head straight inside the Doge’s Palace and explore the site that was the head of a 1000-year republic. As you wonder, you can admire the magnificent gold staircase and Venetian Gothic architecture, visit the Chamber of the Great Council, one of Europe’s largest rooms, and relive the anguish of the palace’s prisoners as they crossed the Bridge of Sighs. Tickets also give you entry to the Museo Correr, National Archeological Museum, and Marciana Library. From €30 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Tour with Gondola Ride

(Photo: The Tour Guy / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

If you’d like to combine your visit to Doge’s Palace with another quintessentially Venetian experience, this 3.5-hour tour could be for you. After meeting your guide, you’ll skip the line and enter the awe-inspiring St Mark’s Basilica where you’ll learn about its fascinating history. Next, it’s time to enter the majestic Doge’s Palace, bypassing the queues once again as you traverse the building’s imposing hallways on a journey through time. Finally, you’ll be accompanied to a trusted gondolier a couple of blocks away for a relaxing ride along Venice’s iconic waterways to bring your tour to a memorable close. From €69 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

Doge’s Palace: Skip the line tickets with guide book

Another popular ticket-only option, this package includes tickets to the Doge’s Palace plus a comprehensive guide book to help illuminate your visit. After saving precious time with your skip-the-line privileges, you’ll be free to wander around the palace’s amazing halls and corridors at your own pace. Provided in your chosen language, you can use your handy guide book to learn all about the history of the palace and its masterpieces of art. You can also create your own adventure and use the suggested itineraries in the guide book to discover the many different palaces of St. Mark’s Square. From €43 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Private Tour

(Photo: LivItaly Tours LLC – Experiencing Italy / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

For a more intimate experience, this 2.5-hour private tour invites you and a select group of family or friends to visit two of Venice’s most famous landmarks. Benefiting from skip the line access, your small group will be taken inside St. Mark’s Basilica for a look around its marble and mosaic décor. Here, you’ll learn about the Basilica’s history, discover the biblical symbolism behind the cathedral’s art, and admire the precious stones of the Pala d’Oro, before enjoying panoramic views from the terrace. Next, you’ll discover the seat of political power during the Venetian Republic at the Doge’s Palace, hearing how the duke and his council controlled the fate of the Republic as you pass masterpieces of art in the corridors. During the tour, there’ll also be the chance to take in the lively atmosphere of the street cafés, entertainers, and pigeons of At Mark’s Square. From €170 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

Secret Itineraries of Doge’s Palace VIP Tour

While many Doge’s Palace tours centre around the building’s ornate majesty, this one focuses on its darker side. Over the course of 3 hours, you’ll escape the crowds with VIP access to go behind the scenes and discover the palace’s most gruesome secrets. You’ll see secret archives, offices, and torture chambers, as well as the palace attic and top-security prison cells. As you go, your guide will regale you with fascinating facts and tales, including how Casanova escaped from his cell in the Doge’s Palace. At the end of the tour, you’ll also get skip the line access to St. Mark’s Basilica with your guide. From €86 per person.

Book at GetYourGuide

The post A Comparison of Doge’s Palace Tickets and Tours appeared first on TravelMag.

1-hour City Tour by Boat (Photo: GetYourGuide)

Berlin is crammed full of sights, many of which sit on either side of the meandering Spree River. This 400 km river splices through some 44 km of the city and glides past showstopping sights like the Museum Island, Berlin Cathedral and the Reichstag. There are dozens of tours to choose from, ranging from cheap and cheerful sightseeing cruises to elaborate dinner affairs. But which to choose? We’ve rounded up five of the best Berlin river cruises based on value for money, route, comfort and customer reviews. 

1-hour City Tour by Boat 

This whistlestop one-hour tour is one of the best boat tours for those short on time. Travellers can choose to depart from Nikolaiviertel or Friedrichstraße and then tick off some of the city’s most famous sights, including the Reichstag, Haus de Kulturen der Welt, Schloss Bellevue and the Berlin Dom. There’s more to this tour than good views too; visitors can opt for a multilingual audio guide, which provides a running commentary on the passing landscapes and historical sights. Seats are guaranteed too, though you’ll want to arrive early for a prized window or upper-deck spot. From £17.35 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.com

2.5-hour East Side Boat Cruise with Commentary

2.5-hour East Side Boat Cruise with Commentary (Photo: GetYourGuide)

For an alternative perspective on the city, try this 2.5-hour tour aboard the Belvedere. The tour meanders along the River Spree to explore East Berlin, little more than 25 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The roundtrip cruise starts by the Old Stock Exchange, then winds down the river past Mühlendamm Lock, under the Oberbaum Bridge and the Nikolaiviertel. Live commentary is available in both English and German and there’s a food and drinks bar onboard if you’re feeling peckish. From £20.93 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.com

Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Audio Guide 

Most Berlin boat tours navigate the waters from a typical river cruise ship, but on this 2.5-hour tour, you’ll get to see the sights from aboard an intimate, solar-powered catamaran. Tours depart in the early evening and offer superb sunset views of the city’s most beloved sights. Departing from Oberbaumbrucke in Friedrichshain Kreuzberg, the catamaran meanders past the East Side Gallery, the historic harbour of Fischerinsel, Museum Island and the House of World Cultures. Insights and additional context are provided through audio guides, instead of a sound system, for a more peaceful experience. From £25.73 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.com

Self-drive Boat Tour 

Self-drive Boat Tour (Photo: GetYourGuide)

This tour gives visitors the chance to captain their own boat on the River Spree. The self-driven boat tour lasts for one to four hours and can host as many as eight people, so it’s worth rallying up a group of pals for maximum cost-efficiency. Passengers can choose their own route using little more than a map and a sense of adventure. There’s no bar on board but you can bring a full picnic on board, including alcoholic drinks. Boats are equipped with cosy blankets for colder evenings too. From £51.45 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.com

Berlin Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco 

This 2.5-hour cruise offers an elevated maritime experience that combines blockbuster sights with a three or four-course dinner and a glass of bubbles. After climbing aboard the aptly-named Flying Dutchman at the Caprivi Bridge, the boat glides along the River Spree past showstopping sights in Berlin-Mitte and Charlottenburg. Passengers can choose from three menus (meat, pescatarian and vegetarian) and tuck in as they glide past the Alexanderplatz, Berlin Cathedral and Bellevue Palace. There’s a handy transparent retractable roof for rainy days so you can enjoy the cruise any time of year too. 

From £55.81 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.com

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From Stellenbosch: Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tour (Photo: Get Your Guide)

Stellenbsoch is probably the best-known town in South Africa’s fabled wine country. Founded by the Dutch in the late 17th century on the banks of the Eerste River, the area is famed for its rich soil and boasts the largest and oldest wine route in the country. Divided into five sub-routes, the route encompasses more than 200 wine and grape producers with their own unique wines, climates and charms. A tour of these wineries and their many tasting options is the best way to get under the skin of this elegant town, but which to choose? We’ve compared five of the best Stellenbosch wine tastings and wine tours departing from both Cape Town and Stellenbosch, taking into consideration value for money, itinerary and customer reviews. 

From Stellenbosch: Hop-on Hop-off Wine Tour (Southern Route)

For travellers looking to maximize their time in the Winelands, this hop-on, hop-off winery tour is an excellent option. Travelling by bus along a popular route in southern Stellenbosch, customers can choose which farms they want to visit and how long they want to stay. Stops include the 300-year-old Spier Wine Far, Van Ryn’s Brandy Distillery and Alto Estate, set high on the slopes of the Helderberg mountain. Pickup is available from hotels in Stellenbosch. From $23.48. 

Book at Getyourguide.com

From Stellenbosch:  4×4 Wine Tasting Safari 

From Stellenbosch:  4×4 Wine Tasting Safari (Photo: Get Your Guide)

This half-day trip is ideal for those looking for a winery tour with a difference. Instead of travelling by minibus or car, customers get to explore the region in an Open Safari Vehicle (OSV). The tour includes visits to three leading wineries: Stark Conde, Rustenberg and Glenelly. Vehicles wind their way across some of the most picturesque scenery around the city for picture-perfect views, including the mountains and lush landscapes of Jonkershoek Valley. Wine tastings aren’t included in the package but are reasonably priced at each winery. From $27.09

Book at Getyourguide.com

From Cape Town: Stellenbosch Winelands Tour and Vineyards 

This half-day tour departs from your hotel in Cape Town on a comfortable bus. The package includes trips to two renowned wineries and includes two wine tastings, as well as a wine and cheese pairing. You’ll also get to enjoy a guided walking tour around the town to uncover its fascinating history of winemaking. Prices include transportation from Cape Town, a registered tour guide, wine tastings and cellar tours. From $52.97 per person. 

Book at Getyourguide.com

From Stellenbosch: Full Day Afrivista Wine Tours from Stellenbosch 

From Stellenbosch: Full Day Afrivista Wine Tours from Stellenbosch (Photo: Get Your Guide)

This highly rated day trip gives travellers the chance to dive deep into the history and culture of winemaking in Stellenbosch. Routes change regularly, so it’s best to call ahead to confirm which wineries you’ll be stopping at but popular stops include: Rustenberg, Backsberg, Lanzerac, Glenelly and Remhoogte. Tour prices include tours and tastings at four different wineries. Each visit lasts around two hours. A scenic lunch is included in the price too. From $67.58 per person. 

Book at Getyourguide.com

From Cape Town: Cape Winelands Full-Day Private Tour

Those looking for a more luxurious introduction to South Africa’s famed Winelands will be hard-pressed to find better than this full-day private tour. Trips depart early in the morning in a luxury Mercedes Benz C-Class or Hyundai H1 along the scenic N2 highway. As well as stopping in Stellenbosch, customers will get to explore some of the region’s other famous winemaking towns, including Paarl and Franschoek. The package includes trips to three wineries and a knowledgeable driver-guide. Tastings and lunch are not included. From $139.06 per person 

Book at Getyourguide.com

The post A Comparison of Stellenbosch Wine Tastings & Wine Tours appeared first on TravelMag.

Landmarks Guided Walking Tour (Photo: GetYourGuide.co.uk)

London is crammed full of showstopping sights, from Buckingham Palace to the London Eye. But it’s a huge city too, and getting from one place to the next is not as easy as you might think. A sightseeing tour solves this problem by combining transportation – by boat, bus, taxi or on foot – with insights into the capital’s best-loved landmarks. There are hundreds of sightseeing tours to choose from, but they can differ wildly in the itinerary, but they can differ wildly in price and itinerary. To help make the choice easier, we’ve cherry-picked five of the best London sightseeing tours, taking into consideration the number of stops, value for money and customer reviews. 

Landmarks Guided Walking Tour 

This whistlestop tour ticks off most of the capital’s main sights in just two hours, making it the perfect option for those looking for an introduction to London’s most iconic landmarks. Tours depart from Trafalgar Square, with stops outside Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, St James Park, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Palace. Tours are led by a knowledgeable guide who will be happy to share tips on the best places to eat, drink and visit after your tour too. For extra insights, you can download a dedicated sightseeing app, which includes complimentary self-guided tours of London. From £11.77 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk

River Thames Hop-on Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise 

River Thames Hop-on Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise
(Photo: GetYourGuide.co.uk)

For an alternative perspective on London’s iconic monuments, why not take to the water? This experience includes a 24-hour river pass that enables you to hop on and hop off at any of London’s main destination piers, including Westminster, Greenwich, London Eye and the Tower of London. As well as enjoying panoramic views of the sights, passengers can listen to a lively commentary of the attractions they pass, from the Houses of Parliament to the Globe Theatre. Boats are all-weather friendly and kitted out with a bar serving onboard refreshments. From £23 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk 

Big Bus Open-Top Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour 

The Big Bus Sightseeing Tour offers one of the most convenient ways to hit London’s top landmarks without making your legs weary. Passengers can choose between a 24-hour ticket and a 48-hour ticket covering three specially designed routes covering as many as 45 sights. The Blue Route is the most comprehensive route, covering all of central London from Kensington Palace in West London to the Tower of London in East London. As well as offering a bird-eye view of London, passengers can immerse themselves in the history of the city with an engaging audio commentary in a choice of five languages. From £40.50 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk 

London’s Top Sights: Walking Tour with Local Guide 

London’s Top Sights: Walking Tour with Local Guide (Photo: GetYourGuide.co.uk)

This highly-rated walking tour ticks off more than 30 London sights in a four-hour walking tour. Led by an enthusiastic guide, the tour stops at iconic landmarks, including the Globe Theatre, the Shard, London Bridge and Buckingham Palace. It even includes a brief pause to see the Changing of the Guard at Horse Guard Parade, an impressive traditional ritual representing the formal handover of responsibilities between guards in bearskin caps, accompanied by a band. Most of the tour guides have lived in central London for over 20 years and are brimming with fascinating facts and entertaining anecdotes about the capital. From £47 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk 

London Full-Day Tour by Black Cab 

If you’re short on time and want to tick off as many sights as possible without joining a huge tour group, this private tour is an excellent option. Travelling in an iconic black cab, passengers are treated to more than 2,000 years of history told by some of the most knowledgeable drivers in the city. Each driver is also a registered Blue Badge, City of London or City of Westminister Guide, the most rigorous tourism guide qualification in the UK. Tour prices include pickup from your hotel or location of your choice and whizz around the most famous sights, as well as some of London’s more hidden attractions. From £639 per group of up to 6. 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk

The post 5 of the Best London Sightseeing Tours appeared first on TravelMag.

Two children splash around in Portland (Photo: Opatrip.com / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

For families visiting Portland, there’s a wealth of great opportunities, many of which revolve around the city’s famous predilection for open-air fun and adventure. From museums and festivals to boat tours and eateries, there’ll be something here to satisfy the entire family – both young and old. To help you plan your trip, we’ve picked out 12 of the best kid-friendly activities and attractions that Portland has to offer.

Embark on a family sightseeing adventure

Sightseeing isn’t every child’s idea of fun, but this family walking tour of Portland is specially designed with little ones in mind. In the company of an expert guide, over two hours – just about the limit for kids when it comes to traipsing – you’ll see some of the city’s most famous landmarks and buildings while learning about their rich history. Highlights include the visually striking Burnside Bridge; Skidmore Fountain, a symbol of Portland’s commitment to public art; and the Battleship Oregon Memorial, a tribute to the USS Oregon and the state’s maritime history. The tour ends at the Waterfront Park Trail where you can take in the beauty of the Willamette River.

Book at GetYourGuide

Let imaginations run free at a museum

Oregon’s temperate climate does feature its fair share of rainy days, and such occasions what better for families than an engaging, fun-packed museum that will let your little ones’ imaginations run wild? Designed to encourage an interactive, hands-on approach to learning, exhibits at Portland Children’s Museum span a variety of topics ranging from gravity and medicine to grocery stores and ceramics. The museum also hosts weekly classes including Paint & Play, Science Tots and Creative Ceramics.

4015 SW Canyon Road / Mon-Sun 9am-5pm

Water-based activity station at the Portland Children’s Museum (Photo: Samuel Mann via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Perched on the banks of the Willamette River in Portland’s Central Eastside district, the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry is a perennial hit with families visiting the city. Designed to inspire kids to take a broader interest in science and the world around them, the museum features an array of immersive and interactive exhibits and displays. Among them are a planetarium, a large-screen theatre, a retired navy submarine, and an earthquake zone where you can feel what it’s like to experience the ground shaking beneath you.

1945 SE Water Avenue / Tues-Sun 9.30am-5.30pm Closed Mon

Located in Washington Park, the World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum is housed within a vast wooden building and is one of Portland’s most distinctive landmarks. Spread over two storeys, visitors get to explore society’s connection to woods and forests and how they impact our lives, as well as the challenges presented by losses of these vital natural resources. The first floor is centred around the role of forests as a habitat and a place for recreation, while the second takes a more global perspective.

4033 SW Canyon Road / Weds-Sun 11am-4pm Closed Mon-Tues

Get a sugar kick on a donut tour

There are few kids whose mouths don’t salivate at the thought of a sugar-coated donut. So what better reward for putting up with your sightseeing than a chance to sample some of Portland’s best circular doughy treats on a two-hour underground donut tour? Accompanied by a passionate guide, you and your group will be taken to four shops where you’ll enjoy a curated choice of donuts. Among the lick-tastic line-up will be classics like glazed and chocolate donuts, as well as more adventurous flavours such as lavender. Between stops, you’ll also visit renowned local sights including Pioneer Square, Chinatown, and the PSU Campus, as your guide regales you with facts and tales about the city.

Book at GetYourGuide

Marvel at an array of exotic creatures

Featuring over 1,000 different animals, Oregon Zoo invites kids and adults alike to get up close and personal with some of the curiosities of the natural world. Thanks to specially designed living quarters, visitors can rest assured that the creatures residing here are in an environment where they can flourish. Highlights include black bears bobcats, bald eagles, river otters, polar bears and sea lions. Other attractions include regular live bird shows and a miniature railway that transports passengers around the perimeters of the zoo grounds.

4001 SW Canyon Road / Mon-Sun 9.30am-4pm

A majestic tiger at Oregon Zoo (Photo: brx0 via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Take in some children’s theatre

Among Portland’s numerous family-friendly attractions that are indoors is the Northwest Children’s Theater and School. Founded in 1993, at their downtown venue they host a busy programme of theatre aimed at children and their families, often based on much-loved classic books and brought to life through actors, puppets and acrobatics. The school also put on regular workshops and lessons to inspire young people who may be considering a career in the performing arts.

1000 SW Broadway T-100 / Tues-Fri 10am-6pm Sat-Sun 10am-4pm Closed Mon

Attend a family-friendly music festival

Nestled in the quaint town of Happy Valley, located a few miles outside of Portland, Pendarvis Farm is best known for its staging of the annual Pickathon Indie Roots Music Festival, which each year features a stellar line-up of talented bluegrass, roots and indie performers hailing from Maine and beyond. Spread across some 80 acres, the rambling farm is the perfect setting for such a large family-friendly music festival, with designated areas for camping, parking, stages, and more.

16581 SE Hagen Road, Happy Valley / July-August each year

A performance at the Pickathon Indie Roots Music Festival at Pendarvis Farm (Photo: David Owen via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Visit one of America’s best comic stores

Situated in downtown Portland, Floating World Comics is widely considered by those in the know as one of the best comic book stores anywhere in America. Featuring a hand-picked assortment of eclectic material, ranging from Marvel and DC classics to rare and indie graphic novels, the store has been open for over 15 years – an impressive achievement for any independent book shop in the age of Amazon. But such is the loyalty of comic fans that they continue to flood here for their animated reading fix. The store also publishes its own books as well as putting on regular in-store art shows.

1223 Lloyd Center / Mon-Sat 11am-7pm Sun 11am-6pm

Let the kids loose at a fun-filled park

The go-to option for parents struggling for inspiration the world over, playgrounds never fail to keep children entertained for hours. One of Portland’s biggest and best public play areas can be found in Washington Park, complete with slides, climbing frames and other time-honoured favourites. When the little ones are worn out, the vast park has plenty of other attractions too, including Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, the Japanese Garden, the World Forestry Center, the Children’s Museum, and picnic areas.

 4033 SW Canyon Road / Mon-Sun 5am-10pm

Two children hold hands as they admire the views across the city of Portland from Washington Park (Photo: Scott Swigart via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Discover magical waterfalls on a guided tour

Rare animal species, dramatic basalt lava flows nearly a mile deep, and some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls are just a few of the sights that await you on this epic half-day adventure. Suitable for all ages, the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. During the trip, you and your group of up to 12 guests will be driven along the oldest scenic highway in the US, stopping at sweeping viewpoints, flowing falls, a historic lodge, and the famed Bonneville Dam Sturgeon viewing centre. The tour price includes your guide and transportation to and from downtown Portland.

Book at Viator

Get your thrills at an amusement park

Dating all the way back to the early 1900s, Oaks Amusement Park, situated within easy reach of downtown Portland, is a perennial favourite day out for families with kids who get a kick out of exhilarating fairground rides. As well as its heart-thumping rides, the venue also has plenty of other entertainment to offer including an indoor roller rink and large grassy picnic areas overlooking the picturesque river. Each summer the park also hosts the Multnomah County Fair.

7805 SE Oaks Park Way / Mon-Fri 10am-10pm Sat-Sun 10.30am-9.30pm

Adrenaline-pumping rides at Oaks Amusement Park (Photo: Jeff Muceus via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

See Portland from up high

Opened in 2007, Portland’s aerial tram offers passengers a unique vantage point from which to admire the city. This 2-3 hour guided tour includes a ride up and down the famous tram together with a jaunt to the city’s Old Town to check out views from the rooftops of two more buildings. Included in the tour price is the return tram ride, plus admission to landmark buildings such as the Oregon Health & Science University, the Ecotrust Building, and the Society Hotel, where you’ll ascend to each building’s rooftops for the best vistas in town.

Book at Viator

Hit the ice

If you’re caught out by the arrival of a rainy day in Portland and are stumped for something to do with the kids, then a great fall-back option to consider is a trip to an urban ice rink. Boasting a unique setting in the middle of a mall within an eye-catching atrium, Lloyd Center Ice Rink is open for daily public skating sessions, including a Rock ‘N Skate session on Friday and Saturday evenings where skaters can glide across the ice against the backdrop of live DJ music.

Book at Groupon

The post 12 Things to Do with Kids in and around Portland appeared first on TravelMag.

(Photo: Hop On AS / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

Allowing you to jump aboard at designated stops across the city and disembark as you please, hop-on hop-off bus tours are a great way to explore a city in a way that’s quick, convenient and affordable. If you’re planning a trip to the delightful city of Oslo and like the idea of utilising the city’s bus network at your leisure, then we’ve looked into all of the companies offering hop-on hop-off tours and compared them for you below.

24 or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket

Operated by Hop On AS, who offer hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours across Norway, these bus tickets are available for either 24 or 48 hours. Included with each ticket are museum discounts, an informative audio guide, and a free set of headphones.  To help keep your travel plans flexible, you can reserve your spot and pay later, and there’s also free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of your booking. Buses depart every 30 minutes from each stop along the route.

Book at GetYourGuide

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

(Photo: City Sightseeing Europe / Courtesy GetYourGuide)

Another reputable company offering hop-on hop off tours in Oslo is City Sightseeing Europe. Their tickets offer the chance to enjoy panoramic views on board an open-top double-decker bus, taking the stress out of finding your way around and letting you spent as much or as little time as  you please at each landmark or attraction. Passes are valid for a full 24-hour period and include museum discounts, audio guides and headphones. You can also reserve and pay later, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Book at GetYourGuide

Best of Oslo Walking Tour and Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Offered by London-based Vox City Walks, this combo deal includes a guided walking tour along with a hop-on hop-off pass. Best suited to those who want to spend some of their time exploring the city among other like-minded travellers, the walking tour takes place either in the daytime or evening depending on the season (evening in summer). You and your small group will be shown around some of the city’s most famous landmarks as your guide offers snippets of info about each one. Afterwards, you’re free to use the city’s buses to continue your exploration at your own pace for the rest of the day.,

Book at GetYourGuide

The post A Comparison of Oslo Hop-on Hop-off Tours appeared first on TravelMag.

(Photo: Viator.com)

In 2022, the American Food & Wine magazine listed Cincinnati as one of the country’s “next great food cities,” recognizing the creativity and diversity present in its burgeoning food scene. To help you discover what all that foodie fuss is about, there are plenty of local guides ready to show you the best eats in the city. From unique dining experiences to restaurant-hopping walking tours, these are the best tours for your tummy. In all options listed below, food tastings are included in the listed price.

Top 10 Sites + Top 5 Foods of Cincinnati Morning Tour

Start your day off the right way with this guided tour of Cincinnati’s fascinating landmarks, such as Roebling Suspension Bridge, Findlay Market and, most importantly, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Better yet, intersperse these stops with food tastings that can include ice cream, chili dogs and numerous other local specialties over roughly three hours. This long-running tour is immensely popular with previous participants. Vegetarian diets are accommodated. Tours run Mon to Fri. From $59 per person.

Book at Viator.com

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

Cincinnati Dinner Cruise on the Ohio River

BB Riverboats have been running cruises up and down the Ohio River since 1979. Their two-hour dinner excursions are a charming way to combine a river tour with a three-course buffet dinner. See the Queen City skyline and look out across the state line to Kentucky as your steamboat navigates the gentle curves of the river. A cash bar is also available on board. This tour only runs on Sundays and usually departs at 6:30pm, with dinner served after around 30 minutes. From $56 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Cincinnati Wine and Dessert Tour with Tastings

Vineyards and wineries are scattered across southern Ohio and northern Kentucky. For those curious to explore the local wine scene, this two-hour tour includes a look at the workings of an urban winery in Cincinnati, with a tasting session thrown in. But that’s not all. The city has an excellent dessert game as well, and the rest of this tour is dedicated to exploring the best dessert purveyors in town, with three separate tastings to prove the city’s sweet credentials. Tours run on Saturdays only. From $65 per person.

Book at Viator.com

(Photo: Viator.com)

Over-the-Rhine Ethnic Food and Culture Tour

The historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is known for its German heritage, which has made its way deep into the local food scene. But over time, the area has diversified, adding broader choice and exotic flavors to the offerings available. This tour explores the history and stories of the neighborhood’s immigrants, then brings in the taste buds to add a deeper appreciation for the culinary sensibilities those newcomers brought with them. Expect tastings at six restaurants over three hours. Tours on Saturdays only. From $69 per person.

Book at Viator.com

Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour with Findlay Market

Another established, popular tour with nothing but rave reviews also provides guests with six food tastings. This one also uses the city’s streetcar as a novel means of exploring further afield, leaving you with an all-day streetcar pass that can be used after the tour finishes. Stops are dotted across three neighborhoods and Findlay Market, visiting six restaurants and offering up to ten food tastings along the way. Courses include a starter, a few mains and plenty of delicious desserts. Tours run Tue to Sat. From $79 per person.

Book at Viator.com

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(Photo: Sedona ATV & Buggy Rental)

Most of those who hire an All Terrain Vehicle will invariably head for the captivating environs of Red Rock State Park, where numerous driving trails offer the perfect landscape for these thrilling, all-action adventures. There are a wide number of reputable local companies that offer ATV rentals, with automatic transmission making driving them a breeze – even for first-timers. Here are some of the best Sedona ATV rental companies to pick from.

Sedona ATV & Buggy Rental

Offering a choice of half-day or full-day rentals, this company invite you to experience the rugged scenery of the Sedona area, with its Native American ruins, beautiful vistas, and canyon crawls. All rentals come with a map and GPS so you can see the sights that interest you the most without worrying about getting lost, while a Bluetooth speaker lets you blast out your favourite tunes as you drive. One, two, four and six-seaters are all available, with pricing starting at $175 for full-day use of the two-person Polaris Slingshot. Bottled water, fuel and basic insurance are all included in the price. Pick-up is from the company’s main offices and parking lot a few miles wets of downtown Sedona.

Book at Viator

Vortex ATV Rental

(Photo: Vortex ATV Rental)

Located in Cottonwood, a short drive southwest of Sedona, this renowned family-owned business is run by a team of staff with expert knowledge of the region. A choice of two-hour, four-hour and full-day ATV rentals are available, starting at $225 for a two-seater rental for a couple of hours. There are plenty of trail options for all types of riders, experienced or not, and they takes pride in offering access to a wider variety of more secluded trails than other local companies. Most travellers opt for the trails between Sedona and Cottonwood in the Coconino National Forest, or Mingus Mountain in Prescott National Forest and other areas within the Verde Valley.

Book at Vortexatvrental

Outback ATV Rental

Another family-run company, Outback ATV Rental prides themselves on providing the ultimate off-road experience in Sedona. From the impeccably maintained fleet of vehicles to the easy-to-use GPS mapping tools, they strive to ensure that your off-road adventure is a memorable one. Every ATV in the fleet is street legal, so you can  drive your rental from their location on West Highway directly to the trails. Both half-day and full-day adventures are available, with prices starting at $199 for a single-seater Polaris ATV. All riders also receive a personal tutorial on vehicle operation prior to heading off.

Book at Outbackatvrental

The post ATV Rental in & around Sedona: The Best Companies appeared first on TravelMag.

Thames River Cruise with Optional London Eye Ticket (Photo: GetYourGuide.co.uk)

The River Thames is London’s most important feature and shaped the city’s fame and fortune. One of the best ways to experience it – and the many landmarks peppered alongside it – is aboard a river cruise. These leisurely cruises combine panoramic views with fascinating insights into the history of the landscape, often using an audio guide offered in multiple languages. But for the best views, you’ll want to combine this with a flight on the London Eye, a 135-metre-tall wheel offering birdseye views over the whole city. It’s the UK’s most popular paid tourist attraction. We’ve compared three London Eye and River Cruise tickets to help you make the decision. 

Thames River Cruise with Optional London Eye Ticket 

This package ticket combines an award-winning sightseeing cruise with a ticket to the London Eye. First comes a 45-minute leisurely cruise, with views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London and Tower Bridge accompanied by a lively audio-guide commentary on the sights you pass. Cruises depart from London Eye Pier County Hall and travel as far as Tower Bridge, ticking off a handful of the capital’s most famous sights along the way. Afterwards, passengers can hop off the boat and onto the London Eye for 360-degree views over London. Ticket prices include the cruise, admission, audio guide and souvenir guide map. From £46 per person. 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk

The Big Day Out – London Eye Ticket, London Hop-on Hop-Off Tour & River Cruise

The Big Day Out (Photo: Viator.com)

For an opportunity to explore London by water, air and land, this package offers excellent value for money. Ticket prices include a 24-hour bus pass aboard a hop-on, hop-off open-top sightseeing bus. Passengers can choose from three different routes, which each tick off different points of interest. Top sights include Notting Hill, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. Tickets also include a trip on the London Eye, followed by a leisurely river cruise with audio commentary in five different languages. From £62.50 per person. 

Book at Viator.com

City Tour with River Cruise & London Eye

This jam-packed package includes admission to three showstopping sights, a city tour with a knowledgeable guide and a leisurely river cruise – all in one day. Tours depart from the City of Westminster aboard a luxury coach and whizz around a handful of the city’s most famous sights, including Westminister Abbey, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Passengers even get the chance to see the famous guards in their red tunics and bearskins perform the Changing of the Guards. Then, it’s onwards for a guided tour around the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral, followed by a trip to the Tower of London. The day winds to a close with a scenic cruise down the River Thames and a flight on the London Eye. From £139 per person 

Book at GetYourGuide.co.uk

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