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Things to Do in Moscow, Russia - Moscow Attractions

Things to do in moscow, explore popular experiences, top attractions in moscow.

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• Saint Basil's Cathedral
• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Moscow Metro
• Moscow Kremlin
• Neskuchny sad
• Aleksandrovskiy Sad
• Kuskovo Estate
• Sokolniki Park
• Put-in Tours
• Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours
• Walks With Folks

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sacramento, CA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Brad Lane has enjoyed several trips to Sacramento while on assignment for PlanetWare .

Sacramento, the state capital of California, is a storied city with a long history and several visitor attractions. It's about 93 miles northeast of San Francisco within the Central Valley of California. Notably, the city sits at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers. This region boasts sunny days throughout the year with hot and dry temperatures throughout the summer.

The city's history is readily on display at places like Old Sacramento, near the waterfront. This historic district dates back to the mid-1800s and the California Gold Rush. Several buildings still stand from this era, offering an immersive world to walk through. Today, modern establishments occupy these old storefronts, including some of Sacramento's best museums.

Much of Sacramento's appeal extends beyond its historical attractions. This modern seat of state government touches upon several aspects of fun things to do. From fashionable neighborhoods to airy city parks and miles-long bike trails, the city offers several places to visit for enjoying its nice weather.

The best time to visit is generally between spring and fall. This is a great time of year weather-wise and is also when the city hosts some of its most prominent festivals and events.

Find the best things to see and do in this city with our list of the top tourist attractions in Sacramento.

See also: Where to Stay in Sacramento

1. California State Railroad Museum

2. state capitol, 3. crocker museum of art, 4. old sacramento, 5. sutter's fort state historic park, 6. california automobile museum, 7. fairytale town, 8. sacramento zoo, 9. california state indian museum state historic park, 10. midtown, 11. american river bike trail/jedediah smith memorial trail, 12. mckinley park, 13. california museum, 14. leland stanford mansion state historic park, 15. cathedral of the blessed sacrament, where to stay in sacramento for sightseeing, sacramento, ca - climate chart.

Highlights: Massive indoor museum housing trains and immersive exhibits

With more than 200,000 square feet of exhibit space, the California State Railroad Museum is among the world's largest railway museums. Located in Old Sacramento, this museum is one of the premier attractions in the city.

It houses restored steam locomotives and railway coaches dating from 1862 to 1944. Almost all the wagons can be viewed inside. Some cars are furnished, complete with dining place settings, which show the level of comfort once offered on the trains. You can walk through a sleeper car as well.

Exhibits focus on railroad history and other related topics. A few prominent displays touch upon the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad and the role early immigrants had in laying the first tracks. More broadly, the museum showcases the ways the railroad industry influenced California history.

Families with children will appreciate the Kids' Corner educational programs and All Aboard for Story Time book readings. Other educational programs include a Junior Engineer program for children ages 7-12.

During the summer months, the California State Railroad Museum operates trains along the Sacramento River. Riding aboard a historic steam locomotive or a vintage diesel train is sure to be one of the highlights of your visit.

Address: Second Street and I Street, Sacramento, California

Read More: Best Museums in Sacramento

Highlights: Center of state government with parkland and free self-guided tours

One of the top places to visit in Sacramento is the California State Capitol building. This structure is an excellent example of Neoclassical architecture and was built in the 1860s. It underwent significant restoration in the 1970s, updating the Capitol to modern building code and preserving some of the most historic rooms.

Today, the California State Capitol is the center of state government and also operates as the California State Capitol Museum. The public is welcome to tour the historic halls throughout the week. A few of the preserved rooms in the museum include the governor's main office and the 1906 treasurer's office. Other historic attractions include portraits and various other artworks, as well as antiques.

The Capitol building itself is an eye-catching attraction. But the adjacent colorful gardens extending several blocks, comprising Capitol Park , make it the most beautiful among Capitol complexes in the United States. Tall palms and numerous other species of trees and plants line the pathways, and several monuments stand out against the foliage.

Since December 1988 a bronze group sculpture, the Vietnam War Memorial , has stood in the northeast part of Capitol Park (L and 15th Street); its construction was entirely funded by donations, and it commemorates those who sacrificed their lives in the longest war involving the USA.

Address: 1315 10th Street, Sacramento, California

Read More: Best Parks in Sacramento

Highlight: Victorian mansion turned art museum displaying Californian and European art

The Crocker Art Museum holds an impressive collection of California art from the Gold Rush era until the present, as well as European paintings and drawings and American photography.

The original collection, which still forms the backbone of the museum, was donated by Margaret Crocker. This private collection was assembled by Judge Edwin B. Crocker from 1868 to 1872. The museum's main building is a grand Italianate Victorian-era mansion, a California Historical Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In addition to the Victorian house, the Crocker Museum of Art displays some of its collection in the contemporary Teel Family Pavilion , which opened in 2010 and tripled the original museum's size.

The California art collection represents works created from 1860 to the present, while the assortment of European art includes 17th-century Dutch and Flemish artwork, Italian Baroque paintings, and 19th-century Central European pieces. The museum's photography collection boasts stunning images by Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange, among other American photographers.

For children (age five and under) the museum's Tot Land area is a delightful space devoted to playful activities and hands-on creative installations. The museum also offers Art Camp classes for children and painting classes for adults.

During summertime, the museum hosts music concerts and a film series; movies are shown in the outdoor courtyard.

Address: 216 O Street (Between 2nd and 3rd Streets), Sacramento, California

Highlights: Landmark part of town with museums, shopping, restaurants, and hotels

Old Sacramento covers eight blocks (28 acres) of historic buildings along the city's waterfront, designated as a National Historic Landmark . Some of the Gold Rush-era structures are now part of the Old Sacramento State Historic Park , including the Eagle Theater built in 1849, the B. F. Hastings Building (circa 1853), and the Big Four Building dating to 1855.

Old Sacramento includes more than 50 historic buildings, mostly from the 1850s, which represent the city's original commercial district, an area that once thrived thanks to the commerce propelled by the Pony Express and the transcontinental railroad.

The buildings are still occupied by over 125 locally owned shops , restaurants , hotels , and museums , which makes the area appealing for tourists. Expect crowds of people filling these historic streets, window shopping, and being guided by the senses. It's a fun area to wander and soak in the history of the area.

Fun things to do in Old Sacramento include taking a jaunt in a horse-drawn carriage, boarding a riverboat excursion , or climbing aboard a vintage locomotive for a railroad ride. And the California State Railroad Museum and Sacramento History Museum are nearly neighbors in Old Town, each offering a first-class museum experience.

Originally, this area was seen as a great commercial center for the new city in the mid-19th century. However, floods proved to be a serious problem, and the city was raised by adding earth to this low-lying area. Eventually, the focus of the city center shifted, and this area had become an impoverished red light district. In the 1960s, the area underwent redevelopment, which led to the creation of what can be seen here today.

Highlights: Historic park at the center of town, popular for self-guided tours and school visits

Sutter's Fort Museum stands on what was once the site of the first outpost of the white man in California, set up by the German-Swiss immigrant Johann August Sutter in 1839. The adobe house built in the same year has been restored in the original style, and houses relics of the pioneering and gold-rush period.

Today, the replica fort surrounding the adobe house sits near the center of the city in Midtown , approximately 1.5 miles east of the State Capitol. Visitors pay a small fee to enter the state historic park and start touring the display rooms. Rangers set up next to several of these displays, offering additional information about the exhibit.

Of note are items related to the town's founder, whose estates reached as far as the other side of the American River near Coloma. After gold was discovered, Sutter was literally overrun by gold-seekers, to such an extent that he was forced to flee.

Address: 2701 L Street (Between K and L Streets and 26th and 28th Streets), Sacramento, California

Highlights: Vast collection of antique and vintage automobiles under one roof

The California Automobile Museum displays a collection of more than 120 vintage automobiles dating from 1885 to current times. The museum has an extensive collection of Ford cars, with models from 1904 to 1969. The extensive assortment of classic and modern vehicles on display shows the development of American automobiles over the past 130 years.

Special exhibits presented throughout the year focus on various themes, such as California car culture, pickup trucks, camping, and road trips. Visitors can also participate in the museum's lively events, including a summer series of Drive-in Movie Nights. The museum also offers Sunday Drives on the third Sunday of each month.

Address: 2200 Front Street (at the corner of V Street), Sacramento, California

Highlights: Family-favorite theme park with gardens, playgrounds, and puppet shows

A popular recreational destination for families with young children, Fairytale Town is a storybook-theme park with 25 play sets based on fairy tales and nursery rhymes such as Cinderella , Humpty Dumpty , Mother Goose , and Peter Rabbit .

The park also has gentle farm animals, which children can visit. Eeyore the miniature Sicilian donkey (a character in Winnie the Pooh ) and Maddie "the Cow that Jumped over the Moon" are among the favorites.

Other highlights of FairyTale Town include the learning gardens, puppet shows, music performances, and the collection of 20 "magic story boxes" that tell stories through narration and songs.

Address: 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento, California

Highlights: Hundreds of animals and several learning opportunities within Land Park

Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the Sacramento Zoo , home to more than 500 exotic animals, from aardvarks and African lions to giraffes and jaguars, as well as more than 200 reptiles. A few other favorite residents include red pandas, snow leopards, and various primates like chimpanzees and orangutans.

The 14-acre zoo also has 14 different aviaries, which provide shelter to 35 species of birds. Many of the zoo's animals are rare and endangered. As a way to support wildlife protection, the zoo is involved in local and international conservation projects.

Plan some of the day to enjoy the surrounding William Land Park, better known as Land Park . Alongside the zoo, it's home to Fairytale Land and extensive parkland. The park's several paved and dirt trails are a pedestrian favorite, passing by scenic landscape features like ponds and gardens.

Address: 3930 West Land Park Drive, Sacramento, California

Highlights: Fascinating museum filled with artifacts, near Sutter's Fort State Historic Park

To understand the history of California, a good way to start is by learning about the original inhabitants: Native Americans. The California State Indian Museum State Historic Park gives visitors an in-depth view of the culture and lifestyle of the indigenous people who have lived on the land that's now California for thousands of years.

The museum illustrates Native American life by presenting three distinct themes: Family , Nature , and Spirit . The exhibits feature items used in everyday life and for specific occasions, including a redwood canoe, ceremonial objects, and hunting and fishing tools , some of which date back 2,400 years. Photographs and educational content help provide deeper insights into the culture.

Note the Indian basket collection , a superb assortment of more than 3,000 woven items, from decorative bowls to burden baskets for carrying heavy loads, cooking baskets designed to steam food, and watertight baskets for preparing acorn soup.

You can also take part in the museum's hands-on activities such as creating shell beads and using a mortar and pestle to grind acorns.

The museum store sells jewelry, baskets, and other handicrafts made by the local Native American community.

Address: 2618 K Street, Sacramento, California

Highlights: Bustling neighborhood with art galleries, theaters, shopping, and dining

Midtown is a vibrant and bustling area of the city at the heart of Sacramento's urban center, located between 16th and 29th Streets and between E and R Streets. The top tourist attraction within Midtown is Sutter's Fort State Historic Park .

Midtown is also the place to go for shopping , art gallery hopping, theater and dance performances, comedy shows, and gourmet dining at trendy restaurants. It's a fun area to wander day and night, with entertainment stemming from every street corner.

Many of the art galleries participate in Second Saturdays and host free receptions on every second Saturday of the month from 6pm to 9pm.

Among locals, a popular event is the Midtown Farmers Market , which brings together more than 50 farmers and other vendors selling fresh fruit, vegetables, and food products. The farmers market features chef demonstrations on a monthly basis and craft vendor stalls on the second Saturday of the month.

Highlights: long-distance bicycle trail popular for all types of non-motorized travel

Part of Sacramento County's American River Parkway Regional Park, the American River Trail is a well-maintained paved path, which winds through a pleasant natural environment, lined by shady oak trees. It's also one of the more popular walking and hiking trails in the Sacramento area.

The 32-mile trail parallels the American River, starting in the city of Folsom and ending up in Old Sacramento. Access to the park is available from Discovery Park, Howe River Access nature preserve, Paradise Beach recreation area, and River Bend Park.

The trail is designed for cycling , jogging , walking , and horseback riding . The park also allows fishing and picnicking . Another name for the trail is the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail , a tribute to the first American explorer to arrive in California.

Highlight s: Bustling public park with a rose garden, swimming pool, and community center

McKinley Park , on the west edge of East Sacramento, is one of Sacramento's busiest parks. But with over 30 acres of open space, it's rarely a crowded place to visit. Throughout this ample parkland that dates back to the 1870s, several park amenities lend to frequent day trips.

Sports facilities are abundant at McKinley Park. Alongside basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, the park also has softball and soccer fields. Horseshoe pits are also available. And during the extended summer months, the swimming and wading pool at McKinley is a hot spot to cool off.

Other amenities at the park include a library and community center. The landscape nature is another reason to visit. Paths wind around and throughout the open space, passing by palm trees and ponds.

For flower enthusiasts, spend some time at the Fredrick N. Evans Memorial Rose Garden .

Address: 601 Alhambra Boulevard, Sacramento, California

Highlights: Two floors of exhibits relating important eras and moments in California history

For residents and visitors alike, the downtown California Museum is worth a visit. This non-profit facility shares the story of past pioneers and innovators that shaped the Golden State. Exhibits on display cover early immigrants that built the railroads and intrepid women whose California legacies last today.

The California Hall of Fame is a signature exhibit on the first floor of the museum. Several familiar names adorn this tribute to current and past residents, including the likes of Walt Disney, Willy Mays, and Dr. Maya Angelou. Placards beneath each inductee offer extra insight into the lives of these California all-stars.

Other topics at the museum include the California Gold Rush, the internment of American citizens during World War II, and the history of California missions. Expect to spend approximately half the day wandering the two floors of exhibits.

Address: 1020 O Street, Sacramento, California

Highlight: Guided tour of an opulent mansion that's now used to house foreign dignitaries

Recently renovated to the tune of 22 million dollars, this stunning mansion will not fail to impress you. Considered an exceptional example of Victorian-era architecture, the 19,000-square-foot building features 17-foot ceilings and ornate woodwork, and is furnished with period pieces.

The mansion is located right downtown, and the juxtaposition of this ornately decorated building set against the modern glass buildings is stunning. Its location also makes it an easy piece of architecture to espy, two blocks southwest of the State Capitol.

Tours are available most days but may be canceled on occasion, as the building is also used for state functions and to host international dignitaries. Tours are free and last approximately 30 minutes. Narration along the way dives into the stately history of the mansion.

Highlights: Architecturally impressive cathedral downtown with services every day.

The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament has been a spiritual center in Sacramento since 1889. Fitting for a California architectural landmark, the cathedral's multi-towered facade is reminiscent of a Spanish colonial church.

The exquisite Neoclassical interior reveals an inspiring domed ceiling and decorative details. Colorful stained-glass windows illuminate the sanctuary, imparting an ethereal glow.

The cathedral offers Eucharist celebrations (Mass) every day and also provides ceremonies for baptisms, weddings, and other occasions. The museum is downtown, less than two blocks from the State Capitol.

Address: 1017 11th Street, Sacramento, California

Tourists who want to see the top attractions of Sacramento should stay in the city center, near the State Capitol or Old Sacramento. From here, other prime attractions are close by, including the California State Railway Museum, Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, and Crocker Art Museum. Here are some highly-rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Across the street from the State Capitol, the Hyatt Regency Sacramento is one of the city's most popular hotels, with a wellness spa, outdoor pool with cabanas, and hot tub.
• Those who prefer boutique accommodation will appreciate The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection in an elegant building from the early 1900s. Every room is different, and the hotel is also home to the renowned farm-to-fork Grange Restaurant.
• Opposite the Convention Center and only a block from the State Capitol, the Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel , with a fitness center and heated outdoor pool, is another popular upscale option.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A block from the State Capitol and Convention Center, the Residence Inn by Marriott Sacramento Downtown at Capitol Park is known for its friendly service and large suites with fully equipped kitchens.
• Another solid mid-range choice is Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento , with spacious rooms and an indoor pool. The hotel lies across from the Riverfront Promenade in Old Sacramento and within walking distance of the State Capitol.

Budget Hotels:

• The good-value Governors Inn Hotel , with large, clean rooms, is only a five-minute drive from the State Capitol and offers a free airport shuttle.
• A short stroll from Old Town Sacramento, the Best Western Plus Sutter House , with a swimming pool, is a popular budget choice within walking distance of the State Capitol, while the Vagabond Inn Executive Sacramento Old Town is only half a block from Old Sacramento.

The best time to visit Sacramento is the shoulder seasons, including April, May, and June, and September and October. These months receive generous warm weather and long days, and avoid the extreme heat of the summer in California's Central Valley. These months, especially April and October, also offer more affordable times to travel.

These shoulder seasons also tend to stay dry in Sacramento. Rain moves into the forecast by the end of October, typically, and remains until March. Autumn strikes at some of the trees through October, but March into April is the most colorful time of year, as the city's many rose gardens spring to life.

Despite the heat, the summer is still one of the most popular times to visit Sacramento. Averages are in the low 90s Fahrenheit this time of year. Plan on enjoying outdoor activities in the morning or evening this time of year, and perhaps find refuge at one of Sacramento's many air-conditioned museums during the day.

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Nearby Places to Visit: The most obvious destination to visit near Sacramento is San Francisco . Spend a day sightseeing and exploring the city's treasures.

For a little more nature, head inland to Lake Tahoe , just two hours away. In summer, hit the nearby hiking trails or spend some time gazing out at the beautiful deep blue water. In winter take advantage of some of the best skiing in the state at Tahoe's ski resorts .

A little further afield, Yosemite National Park is a half-day drive away, as are Redwood National and State Parks, home to the giant redwoods and some wonderful hiking trails.

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The 14 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast

By Alex Erdekian and Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

From Maine to Florida , the East Coast is home to some beautiful stretches of coastline, amazing views, and of course, remarkable beach towns. Whether you're looking for a summer hotspot full of excitement and entertainment and brimming with crowds, or want to escape to a quieter small town this season, the shores on the East Coast have a little something for everyone. From charming, historic New England towns to tropical Southern getaways, there is so much to explore this summer.

There are 14 states that make up this stretch of the US, and each one has its own atmosphere, climate, and culture. From Cape Cod to the Florida Keys , the Atlantic Seaboard is home to a wide variety of vacation destinations. Here are 14 of the best East Coast beach towns in the US.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, Maine

Much of Maine's Mt. Desert Island is covered by Acadia National Park —home to climbs like Cadillac Mountain and a sophisticated system of carriage roads financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr. But on the island's northeast corner, charming Bar Harbor is a destination in its own right. Skirting Frenchmen Bay, Bar Harbor began drawing visitors as far back as the mid-19th century when some of the Hudson River School, a group of artists that included the likes of Thomas Cole and Frederic Edwin Church, were taken with Maine's Down East landscapes. Still picturesque, Bar Harbor is now a full-fledged tourist town with a bustling main street, whale-watching tours, and of course, easy access to Acadia.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor:

• For a quirky stay: Queen Anne's Revenge Inn and Suites
• For romance: West Street Hotel
• For a private cottage: Beachy three-bedroom rental

Rockport, MA

Rockport, Massachusetts

The North Shore, a group of towns in Greater Boston, is a culturally important swath of Massachusetts. The coastal region is known for its excellent seafood, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. Many a good film has been filmed here as well, such as Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island and Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester-by-the-Sea . There are many towns worth visiting, but Rockport is a favorite among travelers. Forty miles north of Boston, the town has a can't-miss natural gem in Halibut Point State Park, from which visitors can spot Maine in the distance 80 miles away. Rockport is also beloved by art history buffs: it is home to Motif Number 1, a fishing shack with the superlative “the most-often painted building in America.” It was built in 1840, and was a popular subject because it represented New England’s nautical character. (And it didn’t hurt that the light hit it just so.) A replica was built promptly following the historic Blizzard of 1978, which destroyed the original. Gray Malin photographed it for his recent project on Boston .

Where to stay in Rockport:

• For cozy vibes: Coastal studio loft
• For a seaside view: Waterfront apartment overlooking a private beach

Oak Bluffs, MA

Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts

Ferries deliver day trippers to this little Martha’s Vineyard town daily and the colorful gingerbread houses for which Oak Bluffs is known are straight out of a storybook. Visitors walk straight off their boats into Ocean Park, a circular green overlooking the sea, encircled by said houses, with a frothy, delicate gazebo sitting in the center. Oak Bluffs has a long history of welcoming Black visitors, and today it is home to the annual African-American Film Festival .

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Where to stay in Oak Bluffs and Martha's Vineyard:

• For a historic stay: Faraway Martha's Vineyard
• For an eclectic experience: Four-bedroom Victorian beach house
• For a camp-inspired spot: Summercamp

Cape Cod, MA

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

This popular peninsula in Massachusetts is a vacation hotspot for good reason. While it really heats up during the summer, it's a beautiful destination year-round, and is brimming with history (head to nearby Plymouth to see where the Mayflower docked). Not only does it offer the best New England summer atmosphere, it's also home to exciting activities and small town summer charm. Here, you can spot wildlife, like whales ( Cape Cod is near their migration path) and seals, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy miles upon miles of sandy coastline. The Upper Cape is best for families, the Mid-Cape is perfect for escaping the crowds, and the Lower Cape is home to great luxury hotels .

Where to stay in Cape Cod:

• For New England luxury: Chatham Bars Inn
• For a historic stay: The Villages at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club
• For seaside access: Cozy one-bedroom cottage

Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island

Like Oak Bluffs, Newport is a beach town known for its houses, though a very different sort. Ten enormous, historic mansions—once the summer homes of the Vanderbilts, Nevada silver heiresses, and other Westerners of unimaginable wealth—remain standing along the famous cliff walk. Today however, they are museums. The most famous two are The Breakers and Rosecliff. The Newport mansions famously earned the ire of writer Joan Didion, who wrote in her essay The Seacoast of Despair, “To stand in the dining room of ‘The Breakers’ is to imagine fleeing it, pleading migraine.” Today, in lieu of the Great Gatsby -esque lawn parties of yore where swans roamed the grounds, Newport attracts visitors of all stripes for events such as the Newport Folk Festival.

Where to stay in Newport:

• For Gilded Age fans: Gardiner House Newport
• For grandeur: The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection

Montauk, NY

Montauk, New York

The final stop on the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is appropriately known as the End. Due to strong winds, rough surf, and ample preserved land, it really does feel like the edge of the world, here. (Although some residents of Long Island’s furthest out town argue that if you really think about it, it’s actually the Beginning.) Montauk feels more remote and low-key than its luxurious, sceney Hamptons counterparts. Every visit to Montauk should include a stop at the Montauk Point Light House, which was commissioned by President George Washington in 1796. It is still operating, and the panoramic views from the top are out of this world.

Where to stay in Montauk:

• For barefoot luxury: Marram Montauk
• For a private beach: Gurney's Montauk
• For St. Tropez vibes: Solé East Resort

Cape May, NJ

Cape May, New Jersey

The site of pink triple-decker Victorian homes and a lively, festive promenade that exists as a beach town ideal in America's collective imagination, Cape May is the sort of dreamy summer destination one associates with trails of melted ice cream dotting the hot pavement and Fourth of July picnics. National Geographic also labeled Cape May as the World's Best Destination for Birding , writing, “The narrow peninsula at Cape May acts as a bird funnel, bringing in songbirds during their spring and fall migrations. At dawn on a good day, legendary Higbee Beach offers front-row seats to a feathered fashion show… With a little luck, you can see 20 species of warblers, each in its own colorful costume.” Sign us up.

Where to stay in Cape May:

• For picturesque looks: One-bedroom cottage with a hot tub
• For classic luxury: The Virginia Hotel

Chincoteague, VA

Chincoteague, Virginia

You won't find bustling boardwalks, sleek hotels, or grids of cars with clunky bike racks trapped in traffic in Chincoteague. This coastal town is all about the wildlife—specifically its wild horses . Visitors flock to the island annually for the Pony Penning that has been held since 1925. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department holds the event, and it consists of a pony swim—in which the animals cross the Assateague Channel—and a pony auction. No one really knows how this population of horses came to be, though there are competing theories. Some say they are descendants of Spanish horses shipwrecked en route to Peru in the 17th century. Others claim they were left long ago by pirates. Still others say they are runaways from mainland farmers. The quaint beauty of Chincoteague includes trails for hiking, beaches, and a red and white lighthouse. For the best pony views, cross over on a bike to the Maryland side of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Where to stay in Chincoteague:

• For beachy decor: Three-bedroom with a balcony
• For sunset views: Bay-facing cottage on the water

Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, Maryland

There is no place quite like the Chesapeake Bay . Step foot here and breathe in the saltwater air, indulge in delicious seafood, and enjoy the gorgeous beaches. The seaside resort town of Ocean City offers fun for the whole family—stroll down the boardwalk and taste the saltwater taffy to start, then take your pick of activities for all ages: surfing, fishing, and kayaking included. If you're looking for something a little less busy, the nearby small town of Berlin (just a 15-minute drive away) is great for a quick trip or overnight stay to avoid the crowds, but will take you away from the gorgeous shoreline. A little farther away is the historic small town of St. Michaels , worth a visit just to explore the history and see the picturesque neighborhood on the water.

Where to stay in Ocean City:

• For a view: Condo with bayside access
• For a midtown stay: Condo near restaurants, bars, and entertainment

Nags Head, NC

Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head is a beach town on the Outer Banks , a group of barrier islands and spits sandwiched between mainland North Carolina and the Atlantic Ocean. It's known for its sand dunes in Jockey Ridge State Park, which comprise the tallest true sand dune system on the East Coast. Hundreds of shipwrecks nearby—caused by the region's shifting sands and heavily trafficked waters—have given the surrounding waters the moniker “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” and the nearby USS Huron is a popular scuba dive site.

Where to stay in Nags Head and the Outer Banks:

• For a beachfront retreat: Sanderling Resort
• For a five-minute walk to the water: Coastal boho home
• For panoramic ocean views: Triple-tiered vacation home

Pawley's Island, SC

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island is so small that its year-round population hovers around 100 people. It was first settled in the 1500s, making it one of the oldest beach towns in the US. With that amount of history, there is, of course, a ghost story to go with it: There have been sightings of the Gray Man, a ghost whose appearance is said to warn of hurricanes as he paces up and down the beach, dating to a 19th-century storm. Summer options on Pawleys Island that are not at all spooky—besides flopping around on the beach—include golf, fishing, walking sculpture-filled gardens, and feasting on Lowcountry cuisine like She Crab soup.

Where to stay in Pawleys Island:

• For a beachy condo: Two-bedroom townhouse
• For a breathtaking view: Marshfront property near the beach

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

While it's not too far from the aforementioned Pawleys Island, Myrtle Beach will feel worlds away from the slow, small-town atmosphere of the other quaint town. This popular summer destination boasts bigger crowds than its neighbor, and has a wide assortment of entertainment, dining, nightlife, and activities available. Aside from the deliciously warm weather and miles of beaches to traverse, Myrtle Beach is also home to a great many golf courses, amusement parks, water parks, and an iconic boardwalk with a massive 187-foot-tall Ferris Wheel.

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach:

• For golf lovers: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
• For seclusion: Island Vista Resort

Tybee Island, GA

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just a short drive from Savannah , Georgia, this coastal community is in the perfect spot for a day trip . Even during the summer, some parts of it manage to maintain that small-town vibe and don't get unbearably crowded, boasting an assortment of adorable ice cream and coffee shops, long stretches of sandy beaches, and great waterfront access. There's a little something for everyone from families to couples— South Beach is better for those who want a little excitement in their atmosphere, whereas North Beach is a bit more quiet and contained. I've found it particularly great for families (having traveled here with a multigenerational group ages 1-68), and recommend the kitschy Original Crab Shack for a memorable meal.

Where to stay in Tybee Island:

• For a private pool and hot tub: Three-bedroom bungalow
• For couples: Historic cottage with complimentary golf cart, bikes, and kayaks

Siesta Key, FL

Siesta Key, Florida

While we love the beach towns listed above, the only part of the East Coast that has a true tropical climate is the lower half of Florida. Naturally, the beaches in this area are very beautiful. We want to laud Siesta Key in particular for its fine sand, which comes from the Appalachian Mountains and is made up almost entirely of cool and reflective quartz, its waterfront dining and drinking, and its excellence for water sports like parasailing. The three beaches to visit on Siesta Key are Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Where to stay in Siesta Key:

• For a lush condo: Beachfront stay on Siesta Beach
• For a private pool: Tropical three-bedroom home

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20 Places To Visit Near Raleigh (BEST Day Trips from Raleigh)

While there are so many great things to do in Raleigh , sometimes it’s nice just to escape the capital city for a bit. Whether you’re looking for another North Carolina city to change it up, an escape to the ocean, or after some hiking in nature there are plenty of day trips from Raleigh to enjoy!

It’s amazing how many activities are within a short driving distance from Raleigh, offering opportunities to explore museums, gardens, beaches, restaurants, wineries, and a wealth of other options! These amazing places to visit near Raleigh all offer something unique for visitors!

Best Day Trips & Places to Visit Near Raleigh

  durham, north carolina.

• Distance from Raleigh : 25 miles
• Driving Time: 30 minutes

A 30-minute drive from Raleigh will take you on one of the best day trips in Durham. With state-of-the-art research facilities and scholarly institutes located inside neo-gothic buildings, Durham is a haven for dark academia fans, history buffs, and tech aficionados.

In fact, Durham caters to the interests of every visitor with a wide array of offerings. From engaging in thrilling sports activities to embarking on historical tours and immersing oneself in artistic displays, this city gives a sense of belonging to everyone. 

Also, the city has a top-tier food scene. Among its myriad of attractions, the Museum of Life and Science, Duke University Chapel, The Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and The American Tobacco Campus stand out as must-visit destinations.

Hillsborough, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 38 miles
• Driving Time: 42 minutes

Take a 40-minute drive from Raleigh and you’ll find yourself in the idyllic small town of Hillsborough right next to the Eno River. It’s the perfect destination for those who only have a day to unwind before going back to the daily grind. Not only is it close by, but Hillsborough has a lot of fun-filled activities to offer, and it has those small town vibes that exude serenity.

Although small, the town is packed with history and your first stop should be the downtown historic district that has well-preserved edifices from the 18 th and 19 th centuries. The town is filled with artists and writers, and weekends come with lots of musical events, art displays, and celebrations.

We suggest finishing off your trip with a leisurely stroll in Eno River.

Wilmington, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 130 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours

Wilmington is an enchanting port city on the Cape Fear River and is only two hours from Raleigh. There’s a long list of fun things you can do on your day trip to one of the oldest cities on the east coast, and topping that list is the Carolina Beach State Park near Carolina Beach, walk the Riverwalk, visit the Fort Fisher Aquarium, and see the endless number of homes and gardens from the Victorian era.

We love spending the day at Wrightsville Beach before making reservations at one of the best Wilmington restaurants.

Roanoke, Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh : 155 miles
• Driving Time: 3 hours

Roanoke, Virginia, nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, offers an idyllic escape from Raleigh for avid road trippers and autumn enthusiasts seeking rustic splendor.

The two hours and 50 minute-long drive may seem long, but it unfolds like a visual feast as you cruise alongside the streams, waterfalls, mountains, and green rolling hills.

Upon arrival, a world of adventure awaits. Begin your journey at the iconic Roanoke Star, a luminous, man-made beacon at the top of Mill Mountain. Make sure to explore the captivating Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Taubman Museum of Art , and the Roanoke Pinball Museum , where interactive games ensure fun-filled times for the entire family.

Greensboro, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 80 miles
• Driving Time: 1.15 hours

A little over one hour of driving on I-40 from Raleigh and you’d be in the city of Greensboro . The city is teeming with all types of attractions such as American Discovery Zoological Park, Greensboro Science Center, the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum, and the iconic Guilford Courthouse National Military Park.

The latter is the location of a real battle that took place during the Revolutionary War. The city also has a buzzing nightlife scene and a food culture that will awaken your taste buds.

Duke Forest, Durham

One of the best places to visit near Raleigh that many people don’t think about is this enchanting forest. When you only have a short part of the day left for a getaway, we recommend grabbing your outdoor gear and making a beeline for Duke Forest .

Located just 30 minutes from Raleigh, this privately owned forest, managed by Duke University, is open to the public. Spanning 7,000 acres, the forest offers a serene escape with its natural woodlands, flowing streams, and open fields—a perfect remedy for rejuvenating the mind and soul.

Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany you on your exploration. We recommend exploring the various trails and immersing yourself in nature through activities such as running, hiking, mountain biking, or even horseback riding.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 180 miles

If you are craving a proper destination vacation but only have a day or two to spare, we suggest packing your car and making a little over three hours’ journey to the Atlantic Coast and its resort town, Myrtle Beach. It’s doable as a long day trip, but we highly recommend trying to stay for a weekend!

Myrtle Beach offers everything that is needed for an unforgettable weekend getaway. There are cruise dinners accompanied by pirate-themed shows, malls, and boutiques for shopping galore, and 60 miles of breathtaking coastline for you to take in.

Don’t forget to visit Bookgreen Gardens, Broadway at the Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, and the Sky Wheel.

Salisbury, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 125 miles

Salisbury is only two hours from Raleigh and offers a perfect change of scenery for those craving it. It is the birth city of Cheerwine and is renowned for its famous Cheerwine Festival in May !

It is also home to five historic districts, offering a lot of things for visitors to explore and enjoy. Make sure to stop by the historic Hall House, test your courage at Piedmont Skydiving, and enjoy the novelty of Lee Street Theater.  

Chapel Hill

• Distance from Raleigh : 30 miles
• Driving Time: 35 minutes

The legendary college town of Chapel Hill is only 30 minutes from Raleigh. It is indeed home to America’s oldest public university. The center of the town called TOPO is the place to be, where you can grab a coffee, some snacks, and enjoy the contagious liveliness of the town.

For all the good food, head over to Historic Franklin Street. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Ackland Museum of Art , and you’d miss your chance to see 19,000 historic pieces from a mere distance away.

The city has something exciting going on throughout the year. Spring and summer bring Beer Month at the breweries, and street parties take over the city where music, art, and food are celebrated by locals and tourists alike. July is for fireworks and August drives everyone towards the UNC campus where a life-sized puppet show becomes the talk of the town. 

September is for welcoming all the new students flocking to the city. The festivities are arranged by the locals to help the students get familiar with the local businesses. The year ends at Chapel Hill with legendary Festival Arts Festivals, Film Fest 919, and the Twelve Days of Christmas at the Carolina Inn!

Great Dismal Swamp, North Carolina/ Virginia

• Distance from Raleigh : 160 miles

Escape the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with one of the best day trips from Raleigh – to the Great Dismal Swamp. Just a three-hour drive away, this National Wildlife Refuge spans both North Carolina and Virginia. 

As you venture into this enchanting sanctuary, you’ll encounter dense forests, 25-foot-deep swamps, and a plethora of unique plant species. The swamp teems with wildlife, including American Black Bears, bobcats, white-tail deer, river otters, and a variety of bird species such as warblers, ducks, geese, swans, and the red-cockaded woodpecker. 

Embark on hiking or biking trails or enjoy guided tours and family-friendly birding classes.

The Biltmore Estate

• Distance from Raleigh : 246 miles
• Driving Time: 4 hours

A nearly four-hour drive from Raleigh might sound daunting, but it’s worth it because, at the end of it, you’d be standing before America’s largest home, The Biltmore Estate .

Constructed in 1889, this architectural marvel showcases the remarkable French Renaissance style. The estate’s historical significance is palpable, adding to its allure.

Once you step foot inside, you’ll be captivated by the sheer vastness and intricate details of the Biltmore House. The house was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II and to this day, belongs to his descendants. If you want to rest a bit and explore the surrounding areas, you can even book a cottage at the Biltmore Village and book a stay at one of these Asheville cabins .

Southern Pines, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 70 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a delightful day trip to Southern Pines, located just an hour away from Raleigh. You have the option to drive or hop on the Amtrak line to reach this charming town. 

Southern Pines offers a serene retreat, boasting vast green spaces and a tranquil atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the area by visiting the iconic Mid Pines Inn and Golf Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning surroundings. 

Don’t miss the breathtaking Weymouth Woods, home to majestic century-old pines, and the enchanting Sandhills Horticultural Gardens.

New Bern, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 115 miles

Looking for a classic family road trip with snacks on the road and a beautiful riverfront destination at the end of it? Head off to New Bern . A two-hour drive from Raleigh will take you to this European-American colonial town that was once the capital of North Carolina.

Discover the city’s relaxed charm as you stroll through its streets, where the iconic Pepsi-Cola was born. Immerse yourself in history at the Tryon Palace, now a fascinating museum. Spend the remainder of the day exploring picturesque parks, Civil War battle sites, and art galleries, and savoring southern cuisine while sipping on an authentic Pepsi.

Eno River State Park

• Distance from Raleigh : 40 miles
• Driving Time: 40 minutes

Eno River State Park near Hillsborough, a mere 36-minute drive from Raleigh, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its many trails catering to all skill levels, this day trip offers an experience that will make you feel like the “George of the Jungle” for a day.

Embark on invigorating hikes, exhilarating biking adventures, or set sail in a canoe or kayak. If you have a North Carolina fishing license then cast your line and enjoy a peaceful fishing expedition, or simply bask in the serenity of nature while dipping your toes in the cool river waters.

Wrightsville Beach

If you are already going to Wilmington, you must add on Wrightsville Beach! Experience unparalleled tranquility and rejuvenation at the magnificent Wrightsville Beach, just a two-hour drive from Raleigh. T

his coastal gem offers a serene escape like no other and Wrightsville Beach is easily one of the best beaches in North Carolina ! What sets Wrightsville Beach apart is its ability to retain its small-town beach charm, despite its huge popularity.

Here, you can have the beach all to yourself, with only the locals and a handful of tourists on the shores, especially if you visit outside the summer months. You can spend your day playing in the water, sunbathing under the North Carolina sun, or having a drink at the Wrightsville Beach Brewery – one of the best Wilmington breweries!

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 103 miles

An hour and a half drive from Raleigh will take you to one of the most interesting North Carolina cities – Winston-Salem. Especially popular amongst children, the city offers tons of fun activities that will keep you busy and entertained. S

tart off with a visit to the immersive science center, Kaleideum North. Don’t miss out on the family entertainment and reserve a portion of your day for Adventure Landing. Then there’s the Reynolda House, ARTivity on the Green, the Old Salem , and lots of eateries and art galleries for you to enjoy this vibrant city.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 60 miles

Just under an hour from Raleigh is a highly underrated city of Rocky Mount . Families should head straight off to this day trip destination for some fun times. No matter where you go, you just can’t skip the Imperial Centre for the Arts & Sciences, the Rocky Mount’s Children’s Museum, and Science Center.

History buffs will love the city just as much as the youngsters as it’s home to Stonewall Manor, a 19 th -century plantation house that will take you back in time. Rocky Mount Mills, Books and Beans, Sunset Park, and so many wholesome attractions are found in this beautiful city.

Fayetteville, North Carolina

• Distance from Raleigh : 65 miles

If you are under a time constraint but your heart desires freedom and fun, make an hour’s drive to Fayetteville , one of the best places to visit near Raleigh.

Here you can lose sense of time at the ZipQuest, get interactive at Fayetteville’s Fascinate-U children’s Museum, expand your knowledge at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum, and find tranquility at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

Hanging Rock State Park

• Driving Time: 2.15 hours

The stunning Hanging Rock State Park is about a two-hour drive from Raleigh and one of the best state parks in North Carolina . During all months it offers the most exquisite scenery, with its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. The 7869-acre park has plenty of hiking trails for all levels of experience. 

Make the most of your time here and hike to the top of Hanging Rock, go horseback riding, mountain biking, swimming, or paddling in one of the park’s waterfalls.

Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area 

• Driving Time: 45 hours

Only 40 minutes from Raleigh, Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers a quick getaway into the wild. It also happens to be the only place in Central North Carolina where you will find a mountain peak. 

Climb the mountain so you check off being at the top of Central North Carolina off your bucket list. Embark on one of the many hiking trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic, and catch some fish at the State Natural Area to cook on the weekend.

  Pilot Mountain State Park

• Distance from Raleigh : 90 miles
• Driving Time: 1.5 hours

Replace car fumes and noise pollution with fresh air and nature sounds with one of the best day trips from Raleigh – Pilot Mountain State Park. Located just over an hour away from Raleigh, it offers a variety of activities for all ages. 

The iconic Pilot Mountain is the cornerstone of this park, which is a quartzite dome that rises over 1,400 feet above sea level. In the past, the landmark was used for navigation by Native Americans. 

Visitors can climb to the top of the mountain for stunning views, or they can take a hike from Pilot Mountain to the Yadkin River. The park also offers a campground, picnic areas, an equestrian trail, boat launches, fishing piers, paddle boats, and a visitor center. 

About Natasha

Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and seven continents. After, many years of international travel they settled down a bit and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina.

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20 Incredible Places To Visit Within a Few Hours of Vegas

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 27, 2024

Something a lot of people don’t know about Las Vegas is that it’s a great base for exploring the surrounding region. So once you’ve had your fill of the Strip, or if you have no interest in it at all, check out this list of awesome places you can reach in less than half a day of driving!

We’ve picked these spots because they’re all an easy drive from Las Vegas and each one offers something a little different. Whether you’re after a peaceful day in nature, a dive into some fascinating history, or just a good old adventure, there’s something nearby that’s sure to catch your eye and give you a break from the city’s buzz.

1. Death Valley National Park, CA

You can get to this huge national park in as little as 90 minutes if you use the Stateline Road from Pahrump. Other good ways to get there from Vegas are via Amargosa Valley and from Beatty, which is later on this list. Once in the park, you can easily spend a week or more exploring the amazing landscapes.

Fun Fact: Holds the record for the highest air temperature ever recorded on Earth at 134 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius) in Furnace Creek on July 10, 1913.

2. Lone Pine, CA

Driving through Death Valley is the fastest way to get to this town at the base of the Sierra Nevada. Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the Lower 48, graces the skyline. The town is a fun place to visit, and it’s a major gateway to the recreational areas on the eastern side of the Sierra.

Fun Fact: This small town has served as the backdrop for numerous films, especially Westerns, featuring the picturesque Alabama Hills and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Another iconic film, though not a Western, that was also shot in the Alabama Hills is “Tremors” (1990), a cult classic featuring subterranean monsters in a deserted landscape. The unique geography of the area contributed significantly to the atmosphere of the film.

3. Mojave National Preserve, CA

Desert mountains and wilderness without crowds await visitors here. There’s also a very large Joshua tree forest, and the Kelso Dunes are a spectacular destination. Access is easy from Interstate 15.

Fun Fact: The Mojave National Preserve is home to the largest concentration of Joshua Trees in the world, as well as the nearly extinct desert tortoise.

4. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

After visiting the Mojave National Preserve, you can continue on to this popular national park. It can be exceptionally beautiful during the spring wildflower bloom and in winter when there’s snow on the rock outcrops and the namesake plants, which are not really trees but more like cactuses.

Fun Fact: Renowned for its unique rock formations and starry night skies, Joshua Tree National Park is a favorite for both climbers and astronomers. The park’s geology and desert flora, including the iconic Joshua trees, create an amazing landscape that’s almost other-worldly.

5. Keyhole Canyon, NV

South of the city is this collection of granite peaks and canyons. Popular activities include hiking, rock climbing, and viewing rock art created by ancient Native Americans.

Fun Fact: Keep an eye out for pictographs and prehistoric rock art that provides a glimpse into the cultural history of the region’s early inhabitants.

6. Red Rock Canyon, NV

When you look to the west, you’ll see several tall red mountains not that far away. Those sandstone peaks are the showcase features of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It’s a world-famous rock climbing destination, but it’s also a great place to hike or just do some sightseeing.

Fun Fact: Not only is Red Rock Canyon known for its towering red sandstone peaks, but the area is also home to more than 600 species of plants, making it a vibrant desert ecosystem.

7. Lake Mead National Recreation Area, NV

The construction of the Hoover Dam created Lake Mead, the major source of drinking water for Las Vegas. Within the recreation area, you can enjoy swimming, boating, and hiking. One highly recommended hiking destination is the Bowl of Fire, where the sandstone cliffs and pinnacles are an unusually intense red.

Fun Facts: It’s the largest reservoir in the United States in terms of water capacity, formed by the Hoover Dam.

8. Hoover Dam, NV

You can also go visit the dam responsible for Lake Mead. It’s one of the largest dams in the world. A bypass constructed in recent years makes visiting the dam easier by diverting a lot of traffic away; it used to be that the only way south into Arizona was a slow, winding road that went over the dam itself.

Fun Fact: When it was completed in 1936, it was both the world’s largest electric-power generating station and the world’s largest concrete structure.

9. Mt. Charleston, NV

The Spring Mountains are the tall peaks northwest of the city. They get enough winter snow to support ski areas, and they’re high enough to provide welcome relief from the Vegas summer heat. Mt. Charleston is the highest peak in the range.

Fun Fact: It features the only ski resort in Southern Nevada, and its landscape is a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.

10. Arc Dome Wilderness, NV

Arc Dome is the high point of the Toiyabe Range, an “island range” so named because it rises high enough above the surrounding desert to support plants and wildlife that thrive in cooler climate zones. If you love getting away from everything, you’ll love this area, which has a very remote feel.

Fun Fact: The area includes Arc Dome, a prominent peak standing at 11,773 feet, which is the highest point in the Toiyabe Range.

11. Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Ash Meadows is a desert oasis close to the California line. It’s also the location of Devils Hole, a spring that supports the world’s entire naturally occurring population of the critically endangered Devils Hole pupfish. Devils Hole is actually a detached unit of Death Valley N.P. located within the refuge.

Fun Fact: The refuge contains 24 species of plants and animals found nowhere else in the world, making it a high point of biodiversity in Nevada.

12. Valley of Fire State Park, NV

This is one of the most scenic state parks in the country. The red sandstone is amazing in both form and color, and several trails allow you to explore narrow canyons, desert scenery, ancient rock art, and more.

Fun Fact: Known for its stunning landscapes, Valley of Fire State Park features wave-like formations of red sandstone that create a vibrant display, especially at sunrise and sunset. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails that lead to fascinating sites, including ancient petroglyphs carved into rock faces by Native American tribes centuries ago.

13. Cathedral Gorge State Park, NV

This state park is pretty small, but it’s totally worth the trip. Here, erosion has carved the soft rock formations into wild shapes and patterns that you have to see to believe, especially in the glow of sunrise and sunset.

Fun Fact: Cathedral Gorge is known for its dramatic, spire-like rock formations, which resemble cathedral spires and were formed through erosion of soft bentonite clay.

14. Great Basin National Park, NV

This destination is a bit more of a haul than many others on this list, but you’ll get to enjoy one of the more lightly visited national parks in the country. There’s a lot to do here. Some examples: visit a grove of ancient bristlecone pines, hike to a “rock glacier” (permanent ice located beneath a field of boulders), tour a beautiful cavern, hike to mountain lakes and a natural arch, and hike to the summit of Wheeler Peak, the park’s highpoint and the highest mountain entirely within Nevada.

Fun Fact: Named after the vast Great Basin region, this park showcases a striking mix of deserts and snow-capped mountains, offering visitors a vivid snapshot of Nevada’s diverse landscapes.

15. Beatty, NV

As mentioned earlier, Beatty is a great gateway to Death Valley NP, but it’s a fun little town that has other things to recommend. One is having one of the best candy stores in the country. Another is being able to hike up Beatty Mountain, the colorful peak just outside town. It has great views and a lot of interesting rock formations.

Fun Fact: Besides being a gateway to Death Valley, it’s near Rhyolite, one of the most photographed ghost towns in the West, famous for its historic ruins.

16. Mesquite, NV

If you like the casino scene but find Vegas a little overwhelming, try Mesquite. It’s like a mini-vegas located close to the Arizona border off I-15, and you’ll pass through on your way to the next three places on this list.

Fun Fact: Known for its world-class golf courses, Mesquite offers more than just casino action, with some of the best golfing available in the region.

17. Virgin River Gorge, AZ

After entering Arizona, I-15 soon passes through a spectacular canyon called the Virgin River Gorge. There isn’t much to do here in terms of official trails, but there are some recreation sites that allow access to the river, which is usually shallow. I included this place here rather than with the other Arizona location because you pass through it on the way to the next two places.

Fun Fact: This gorge was once used as a filming location for the classic road movie “Thelma & Louise,” giving it a bit of Hollywood history amidst its natural beauty.

18. Snow Canyon State Park, UT

Snow Canyon is a gorgeous state park located near St. George. It has nice trails and views, and you can find ancient rock art here. It’s also a popular rock climbing destination. If you’re in the area and looking for a less-crowded alternative to the next place on this list, check out Snow Canyon.

Fun Fact: Snow Canyon isn’t named for wintry weather but after early Utah leaders Lorenzo and Erastus Snow. The park is known for its fascinating volcanic cones and lava tubes.

19. Zion National Park, UT

Zion Canyon can get really crowded, but it’s so spectacular that you shouldn’t miss seeing it. With a good map and a sense of adventure, you can then get away from the crowds and explore the amazing backcountry of this national park that’s hands-down one of the best in the system.

Fun Fact: Zion National Park was originally named Mukuntuweap National Monument before it was renamed in 1919 to appeal more to the general public. (Smart move!) It’s also one of the few places in the world where you can see all four North American desert types converging.

20. Kingman, AZ

After you leave the Hoover Dam area, there’s very little development as you drive south into Arizona. Maybe that’s why Kingman almost seems to appear out of nowhere. It’s a good base for exploring the pretty mountains in the area, and you won’t have to worry about crowds there.

Fun Fact: Kingman proudly hosts the world’s first electric vehicle museum, a cool spot for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It’s also a key stop on the iconic Route 66, where you can dive into the past at classic car shows and soak up the nostalgia of America’s famed highway.

Featured Image Credit: Vlad Teodor/Shutterstock

The World’s Most Beautiful Mountain Ranges

For as long as humans have existed, mountains have inspired and daunted us. They’re the basis for countless legends, and although they can be deadly, have an irresistible pull on us, drawing millions of sightseers, hikers, climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts every year. Making a definitive list of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world is subjective, but the ones here are certainly strong contenders.

Best Place to See the Grand Canyon Sunrise at South Rim

If you’re wondering  where the best place to see the Grand Canyon sunrise  at South Rim is, you’re not alone. With more than six million visitors to the national park each year, there are plenty of people trying to find the best place to see the show.

And what a show it is! Mother Nature does not disappoint. It was easily one of the most memorable sunrises we’ve ever seen!  There are some things you should know before you go,  though, and we’ll do our best to answer all your questions for you.

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Seattle's Top 25 Things to Do

We dare you to do them all.

In no way is this a comprehensive list of all the incredible experiences to be had in Seattle, but it’s a start. Let’s go!

SEATTLE CENTER

Space Needle

Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the 605-foot-tall Space Needle quickly became an icon of the city that today is recognized far and wide. On the observation level, which you can reach via a 43-second elevator ride, see the doodle-on-a-napkin concept that led to the Space Needle design. Views from the top feature Elliott Bay, the Cascade Mountains, and even Mount Rainier.

Seattle Center Monorail

Another World’s Fair relic, the Seattle Center Monorail links Seattle Center—home of the Space Needle and several other notable attractions—to downtown’s Westlake Center along an approximately one-mile route. The designated historic landmark can reach a top speed of 45 miles per hour and weaves between skyscrapers above the city streets.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

Music, science fiction, and pop culture all come together at the fascinating Museum of Pop Culture . The Frank Gehry-designed building looks like a smashed guitar from above, while inside, its colorful exhibits cover everything from the history of indie video games and horror films to Nirvana, the Seahawks, and more.

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Pacific Science Center

This family-friendly museum is where science lessons come to life. At Pacific Science Center , explore galaxies near and far in the planetarium, get up close and personal with colorful creatures in the Tropical Butterfly House, maneuver a two-ton granite ball, find out what it means if you can roll your tongue, and much more.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is dedicated to the work and career of locally born, world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly, who was introduced to the craft while studying at the University of Washington. It is the most comprehensive collection of his art to date, with interior galleries featuring a variety of his work in the medium. The pièce de résistance is the glasshouse, with a vibrant 100-foot-long sculpture in hues of red, orange, and yellow suspended from the ceiling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet

Among the top echelon of dance companies in the world, Pacific Northwest Ballet performs a variety of classical and modern shows in Seattle Center’s beautiful McCaw Hall. Under the creative direction of renowned dancer Peter Boal, Pacific Northwest Ballet offers transformative performances that are sure to impress. Don’t miss its recently revamped version of The Nutcracker , an annual holiday tradition.

DOWNTOWN SEATTLE

Pike Place Market

From the iconic market sign and Rachel the Piggy Bank to the gum wall, the original Starbucks cafe, well over 225 local artisans selling their wares, the famous fish-tossing tradition, and music-playing street performers, there are enough sights and sounds at Pike Place Market to pack a day (or more). The market added its historic MarketFront expansion in 2017, featuring an open-air plaza and fantastic views of Elliott Bay.

Seattle Art Museum – three ways

The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) is the city’s largest museum dating back to the 1930s and housing a varied collection of artwork that spans multiple eras and geographic regions. Take the time to visit the Olympic Sculpture Park , an outdoor extension of the museum that’s open to the public for free about a mile away at the waterfront. And don’t miss exploring SAM’s Asian art collection at the Seattle Asian Art Museum , located just east of downtown in Capitol Hill.

Central Public Library

You’ve never seen a library quite like this— Seattle Central Library ’s architecturally distinct structure boasts enough glass to cover more than five football stadiums. Head to the 10th floor for a light-filled reading room with peekaboo views of Elliott Bay, or take a self-guided cell phone tour by dialing 206-868-8564*.

Smith Tower

Visit the city’s first skyscraper, built in 1914, and ride the historic, manually operated elevators to the 35th-floor observatory, where 360-degree views await. Displays tell the tale of characters who made Smith Tower what it is today, while the tower’s Prohibition-themed Temperance bar serves themed cocktails.

Seattle Aquarium

Down at the Seattle Aquarium on the waterfront’s Pier 59, learn all about salmon, meet a few adorable sea otters, and greet the various sea creatures of the Pacific Ocean, from puffers to giant clams. Watch scuba divers feed the fish, gawk at sharks swimming overhead in the underwater dome, and even touch a sea anemone.

Washington State Ferries

A ride across Puget Sound aboard one of 22 Washington State Ferries vessels is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the bow of the boat as you cruise to the nearby communities of Bainbridge Island or Bremerton. This is one of those cases where the journey is as much fun as the destination.

Seattle Great Wheel

Although it was only built in 2012, the Seattle Great Wheel has quickly become a fixture of the city’s skyline—plus it adds an entirely new sightseeing perspective, thanks to its location perched on the end of Pier 57. Enjoy three revolutions around in one of the air-conditioned gondolas to see the city, water, and mountains on the horizon.

Museum of Flight

Aviation buffs, take note: The Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space collections in the country, with an overwhelming number of things to see—like a Boeing lunar rover and an Air Force One from the Eisenhower era—and do, including NASA space shuttle trainer tours and flight simulators.

Woodinville Wine Country

Western Washington’s wine outpost is in Woodinville, a charming town just a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle. There are more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms pouring there (including Chateau Ste. Michelle , the state’s first winery), ensuring something for every palate.

Boeing Future of Flight

Boeing Future of Flight is one of Washington state’s premier aerospace attraction and experiences, 25 miles north of downtown Seattle. It is located in Mukilteo at Paine Field. Guests are welcome for the Gallery, Sky Deck, and Boeing Store.

T-Mobile Park and Lumen Field

Cheer on the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park , one of baseball’s prettiest ballparks (with gourmet food, to boot!), or root for the Seattle Seahawks and Sounders FC at neighboring Lumen Field , known for its boisterous atmosphere. Both stadiums offer behind-the-scenes tours during the offseason and when the teams are away.

This picturesque Queen Anne spot looks down at the Seattle skyline from the north. It’s the ideal place to get the quintessential view of the city, featuring the Space Needle, Elliott Bay, downtown skyscrapers, and (on clear days) Mount Rainier.

Pioneer Square

Seattle’s original downtown is full of beautiful old buildings in Romanesque Revival style, underground tours that take you beneath the streets to see the remains of the city’s first buildings, and an ever-growing slate of hip shops and restaurants. Take an afternoon or more to explore Pioneer Square ‘s ivy-covered buildings and pop into bars, boutiques, and hidden gems, like Waterfall Garden Park .

Chinatown-International District

The ornate Chinatown Gate welcomes you to this diverse neighborhood, where the food scene is incredible. After eating your fill of everything from pho to sushi, visit Wing Luke Museum , dedicated to the Asian Pacific American experience; practice your pinball game at the Seattle Pinball Museum ; and shop for Japanese snacks and cute gifts at the Uwajimaya supermarket.

Ballard Locks

In Lake Washington’s Ship Canal sits the century-old Ballard Locks , where you can watch the water levels rise and lower to create a “boat elevator” for boats and even kayaks passing between freshwater lakes and the salt water of Puget Sound. The on-site botanical garden and fish ladder are also worth a visit.

South Lake Union

The always bustling Lake Union, located just northeast of downtown, hosts a variety of seaplanes and boats of all kinds, including the floating home from Sleepless in Seattle . Get out on the water at The Center for Wooden Boats , which offers rentals and tours. And explore the area’s burgeoning restaurant and bar scene.

Kenmore Air

If you want to get a better look at the city, the views from Kenmore Air ’s Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour are unbeatable. Board the floatplane at Lake Union for an exhilarating takeoff, leisure flight, and gentle landing back on the water.

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)

Known as MOHAI , this museum on the shores of Lake Union encapsulates what Seattle is all about, with a dash of smart history, a dose of technology, and quirky artifacts around every corner (think a pink truck with toes). Permanent exhibits showcase everything from the city’s maritime history to modern tech innovations.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

You won’t have trouble finding a Starbucks here in the company’s hometown, but you’ll want to seek out this special Starbucks experience on Capitol Hill. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a Willy Wonka–esque coffee wonderland, where you’ll find exclusive beverages, various brewing methods, a coffee library, and more.

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• 55 Places to Visit Near Bangalore

Tourist Places near Bangalore

Quick navigation, must visit places near bangalore, skandagiri (62 km from bangalore).

If you want to try a night trekking trail, plan a trip to Skandagiri that offers an unforgettable trekking experience at night. Once you reach the hilltop, you’re rewarded with the most scenic view that stuns you for a moment. Mostly, tourists who are planning for a weekend travel with their friends will prioritize Skandagiri among other attractive tourist places near Bangalore. Skandagiri also called as Kalavara Durga by locals has great historical significance since the colonial period. The place has remnants of a fort which roughly dates back to the 18th century. Since it is in dilapidated form, it has lost much of its uniqueness. Type of destination:  Hilly Distance:   62 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 hours 30 minutes 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  - Hotel Mount Palazzo,  Shathayu Ayurveda Yoga Retreat,  Signature Club Resort How to reach: By Air:   The nearest airport to Skandagiri is Bangalore Airport. By Road:   There are KSRTC Deluxe buses daily running from Bangalore to Skandagiri. Also, one can have a short road trip from Bangalore to Skandagiri on there own. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Skandagiri is Bangalore Railway Station. Popular Reads: 35 Best Road Trips From Bangalore   Also Checkout & Book:  Uffizi Gallery Tickets

Nandi Hills (61 Km from Bangalore)

Offering a perfect environment for city dwellers to cool off, Nandi Hills is a hill station in Karnataka that is counted in the list of best places to visit around Bangalore. It's perched at a whopping elevation of 1,478 metres. This hill fortress has an interesting history to boast which it conveys through Tipu Sultan Fort and numerous Hindu temples it encompasses. 

So if you are looking for a relaxed vacation with an opportunity to learn about the history of Mysore, Nandi Hills fits the bill. Besides, owing to its high location, you can brace yourself to witness some unusual sights where you will be overlooking a sweeping blanket of clouds, hiding the hills and valleys beneath it. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  61 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 Hour 45 Minutes 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:   Between the months of September to February Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 day since its open for 12 hours every day (6 AM to 6 PM) Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to stay in Nandi Hills How to reach : By Air:  The nearest airport to Nandi Hills is  Kempegowda International Airport(58 km away). By Road:  There are a number of buses connecting Nandi Hills to various cities. And, one can have a  short road trip from Banglore to Nandi Hills . By Train:  The two nearest Railway Station to Nandi Hills is Chikkaballapur and Bangalore from where one can board a taxi or bus easily. Check Out: 8 Best Restaurants near Nandi hills

Ramanagara (49 Km from Bangalore)

If you are planning a short trip from Bangalore with family and friends, Ramanagara is just a long drive away. It is a small town in Karnataka with a myriad of wonderful opportunities for vacationers to relax their bodies and minds. More importantly, this is the place where the Bollywood classic, Sholay was shot. Ramanagara is recommended as one of the most rewarding places near Bangalore for adventure as you can fill your holiday with the thrill of trekking and rock climbing here. Besides, the town encompasses a total of seven beautiful hills teeming with untainted nature, making it a visual delight. Type of destination: Family getaway Distance:  49 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 Hour 30 Minutes Places to Visit in Ramanagara:   Mekedatu, Chunchi Falls, Savandurga,  Ramadevara Betta Hills Things to do  in Ramanagara:   Go for Bird Watching in Ramanagara, Spend a day Shopping around the City Markets,  Enjoy Trekking at the Ramanagara Hills Best Time:  Between the months of March to May Ideal Weekend Duration:   1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Resorts in Ramanagara with best amenities How to reach:  By Air:  The nearest airport to Ramanagara is Bangalore Airport(50 km away). By Road:  There are a number of buses connecting Ramanagara to various cities. And, one can also have a short road trip from Banglore to Ramanagara . By Train:  Ramanagara Railway Station has a well-connected network of trains to all the major cities.

Check Out: 25 Best Hill Stations Near Bangalore

Coorg (276 Km from Bangalore)

This hill station in Karnataka, fondly called ‘The Scotland of India,’ is a treasure trove of happiness and peace. Set at an elevation of 900 metres in the Western Ghats, Coorg is one of the perfect places to visit near Bangalore, especially if you are looking for a refreshing getaway from the urban clutter. Covered in dense verdure and dotted with exquisite coffee plantations, the landscape of this place will sweep you off your feet. With natural attractions like Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Nagarhole National Park, it fascinates every nature lover. While man-made attractions such as Golden Temple and Madikeri Fort are admired by sightseers. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  276 Km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 5 hours Places to Visit  in  Coorg:   Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Golden Temple, Raja’s Seat, Iruppu Falls,  Nagarhole National Park, etc. Things to do  in Coorg :   Give Bath to Elephants at Dubare Elephant Camping, Visit the Coffee Plantations, Take a Swim at Iruppu Falls, Indulge in Tibetan Culture at the Golden Temple,  Enjoy Trekking in the Jungles of Coorg Best Time:   Between the months of October to April Ideal Weekend Duration:   2 to 3 days Where to Stay:   Best & unique resorts to stay in Coorg How to Reach: By Air:  The nearest airports to Coorg are Mangalore(160 km away) and Bangalore(265 km away). By Road:  There are KSRTC Deluxe buses daily running from Mangalore, Bangalore or Mysore. Also, one can drive from  Bangalore to Coorg   as it takes about four and a half hours. By Train:  The two nearest Railway Station to Coorg is Mysore(95 km away) and Mangalore(131 km away). Popular Reads : 15 Best Places to Visit in Coorg in 2 Days Click Here to Book:   Tower Of London Tickets

Top Experiences To Do in Coorg

Kanakpura (69 Km from Bangalore)

If you are travelling with family, Chunchi Falls and Mekedatu are serene picnic spots with breathtaking natural scenery. Furthermore, you can also find numerous opportunities here to capture some stunning shots of the surrounding hills and valleys.   Type of destination: Family getaway Distance:   69 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 2 Hours 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:   1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Kanakpura How to reach: By Air:   The nearest airport to Kanakapura is Bangalore Airport(50 km away). By Road:  There are a number of buses connecting Kanakapura to various cities. And, one can also have a short road trip from Banglore to Kanakapura . By Train:  The nearest railway station to Kanakapura is Ramanagara Railway Station. Suggested Reads: 20 Best 2 Day Trips Near Bangalore

Savandurga Hills (48.5 Km from Bangalore)

Savandurga Hills is not only one of the perfect weekend getaway places near Bangalore, but it is also one of major tourist attraction of Karnataka. The Savandurga Hills are considered to be amongst the largest single rock formation in Asia. Located near the Amaravati River, the Savandurga Hills has a lot to offer to the travellers. There are several activities which one can do here, the most famous being rock climbing and trekking. Since the Savandurga Hills has the largest rock in the country, the rock climbing experience which one gets here is unparalleled. Nowhere in India can one enjoy the thrill of rock climbing better than that of Savandurga Hills. One gets a panoramic view of the scenic beauty surrounding the Savandurga Hills from the top of the hill. One will surely be rejuvenated after a trip to the Savandurga Hills. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  48.5 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 hours

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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 day How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Savandurga is Bangalore International Airport(55 km away). By Road:  There no buses available for Savandurga but still one can hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Savandurga is Magadi Railway Station(12 km away). Must Read: 7 Best Resorts on Mysore Road for an amazing stay

Sakleshpur (221 Km from Bangalore)

A place with a variety of attractions and experiences, Sakleshpur is easily one of the most recommended places to visit near Bangalore. For sightseers who would like to explore some historical landmarks, the 18th Century Manjarabad Fort and the 11th Century Sakleswara Temple are the best bets in Sakleshpur. And, if you want to turn your vacation into an adventurous affair, you are recommended to add Bisle View Point and Agni Gudda Peak to your itinerary. Additionally, for some moments of pure solace, the town has sites like Majehalli and Hadlu waterfalls. Type of destination: Family getaway Distance:  221 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 4 Hours Places to Visit in Sakleshpur:   Manjarabad Fort, Bisle Viewpoint, Jenukal Gudda, Betta Byraveshwara,  Sakleswara Temple Things to do in Sakleshpur:   Visit the Coffee Plantations, Enjoy the Trek on Jenukal Gudda, Camp at the Pandavar Gudda,  Visit the Sakleswara Temple Best Time:   Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:   Best & Unique Places to Stay in Sakleshpur How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Sakleshpur is Mangalore International Airport(138 km away). By Road:  There are KSRTC super fast buses daily running from Mangalore, Bangalore or Mysore. Also, one can rent a car or drive on there own from Bangalore to reach Sakleshpur. By Train:  The nearest railway station to the hill station is Sakleshpur Railway Station.  Also Read: Best Homestays in Sakleshpur for a relaxing stay

Top Experiences To Do in Sakleshpur

Chikmagalur (245 Km from Bangalore)

Chikmagalur is one of the important places to visit around Bangalore, it's a hill station that embraces the picturesque beauty of nature accentuated by the famous coffee plantations, highest peaks, and mesmerizing waterfalls. This vibrant landscape has its own charm and attracts many trekkers, explorers, and nature admirers other than pilgrims, and family tourists. 

Chikmagalur attracts more tourists during September and March, where they delve into every interesting ride and enjoy a memorable respite with their buddies. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  245 km from  Bangalore to Chikmagalur Travel time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes Places to Visit in  Chikmagalur :   Mullayanagiri, Kudremukh, Baba Budangiri, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary,  Jhari Waterfalls, etc. Things to do in  Chikmagalur :   Explore Coffee Plantations, Check out the Mountain Circuit at Mullayanagiri, Visit the Caves of Baba Budangiri, Enjoy at the Hebbe Falls,  Have a fun Rafting Experience at the Bhadra River, Visit the Coffee Museum Best Time:  Between the months of September to March Ideal Weekend Duration:   2 to 3 days Where to Stay:  Best resorts & places to stay in Chikmagalur , Our platform has  various packages of homestays in Chikmagalur  that will make you ditch hotels. How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Chikmagalur is Mangalore(110 km away). By Road:  There are State-run as well as private luxury buses daily running from Mangalore, Bangalore and Hubli . Also, one can always drive to Chikmagalur as it takes about four and a half hours. By Train:  The city of Chikmagalur has its own railway station but it is not well-connected so, one can board a train from the nearest railway station of Kadur(40 km away). Must Read: 11 Best Waterfalls in Chikmagalur

Top Experiences To Do in Chikmagalur

• Chikmagalur

Wayanad (278 Km from Bangalore)

Wayanad surrounded by lofty ridges and rugged terrains are nothing but a green paradise for nature enthusiasts. Nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats, it features the enchanting locations having rich heritage and culture. This hill station in Kerala is one of the best tourist attractions in Southwest India having lots of surprises. Here, thrill-seekers have a plethora of options to get connected with nature. Similarly, travellers who want to visit scenic tourist places near Bangalore; they will come to Wayanad and get an aesthetic pleasure. Type of destination:  Hilly Distance:  278 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 6 hours Places to Visit in Wayanad :   Edakkal Caves, Meenmutty Waterfalls, Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Waterfalls, Chembra Peak, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary,  Neelimala View Point Things to do  in Wayanad :   Spend a Day in Nature’s Lap at the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Visit the Banasura Sagar Dam, Enjoy Bamboo Rafting at the Kuruva Island, Explore the Edakkal Caves, Enjoy the View from Neelimala View Point, Go Trekking on the Chembra Peak, Enjoy Boating around in the Pookode Lake. Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  3 to 4 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts in Wayanad How to reach:  By Air:  The nearest airport to Wayanad is  Calicut International Airport(93 km away) situated in Kozhikode. By Road:   There are KSRTC super fast buses daily running from Mangalore, Bangalore or Trivandrum to Kozhikode and Wayanad too. It is very convenient to reach  Bangalore to Wayanad . By Train:  The two nearest Railway Stations to Wayanad is Nilambur(90 km away) and  Kozhikode(110 km away). Must Read:  Best Homestays in Wayanad amidst the beautiful nature .

Top Experiences To Do in Wayanad

Ooty (274 Km from Bangalore)

Ooty popularly called as Udhagamandalam is a one-stop destination for family trippers to escape from the lazy summer. There are many hill station places to visit near Bangalore, but if you want to explore the unexplored sites, you should go to Ooty first. Located at an altitude of 2240 meters in the Western Ghats, Ooty is equally attracted to the Coffee and Tea Plantations. The diverse landscape is encircled with mountain peaks, thick forests, and gently flowing waterfalls, attracts many photographers and adventurers throughout the year. This “Queen of Hill Stations” was unearthed only during the early 1800s, since then many developments and modernization took place. Type of destination: Hill Station Distance:  274 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 5 hours 50 minutes Places to Visit in Ooty:  Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Rose Garden, Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden Things to do in Ooty :   Experience Natural Beauty at the Rose Garden, Go Trekking to the Kotagiri Hill Station, Visit the Ooty Lake Best Time:  Between the months of October to June Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Ooty How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore Airport(100 km away). By Road:  There are private buses running daily from Coimbatore and Bangalore to Ooty also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The two nearest railway station from Ooty is Coimbatore and Tiruppur just a few hours away. Also Read:   Best Trekking tours in Ooty Click Here to Book:  Mahanakhon Skywalk Tickets

Top Experiences To Do in Ooty

Kabini (211 Km from Bangalore)

Kabini, that is located at a short distance away from Bangalore is one hell of a weekend destination from Bangalore , that offers a cool respite away from the suffocating environs of the city! The flows of the Kabini River and the dam built over it are some of the most amazing sites of this beautiful destination. Not only this, but the land is also famous for its wilderness and wildlife hotspots where you can sight various animals such as elephants, wild boars and even (if you are very lucky) TIGERS! Explore this verdant green escapade around 205km from Bangalore if you are a nature lover, wilderness explorer or even just a traveler who is seeking quietude in the envelope of nature. Type of destination:  Family getaway Distance:  211 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes Places to Visit in Kabini:  Kabini Dam, Nagarhole National Park, etc. Things to do in Kabini:   Go for a fun-filled Jungle Safari, Experience Boating in the Kabini River Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Places and Resorts to Stay in Kabini How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Kabini is Coimbatore International Airport(127 km away). By Road:  There are private buses available for Kabini also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station is Mysore Railway Station which is about one and a half-hour ride from Kabini.

Top Experiences To Do in Kabini

Places to Visit near Bangalore Within 100 Kms

Wine tour in ramanagara (55 km from bangalore).

While you are in Bangalore, this is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore. Wine aficionados can treat themselves to a fun and informational wine tour. The salubrious weather and fertile soil of Bangalore aid the growth of grapes. This, in turn, has led to the mushrooming of wineries around the city.  On their tour, you can unravel what goes behind the makings of fine wine. Amble through the refreshing vineyards; learn how to see, swirl, sniff, and sip the drink from the experts. And to top it, get to indulge in a wine tasting session too! Type of Destination: Wine tour Distance:   55 km  from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 hours 30 minutes Best time to visit :  October to February is the best time to visit a vineyard in Bangalore. Ideal Weekend Duration: One day. Where to stay:   Eagleton Resort,  Club Magnolia, etc Must Read: 13 Best Resorts in Electronic City Bangalore for an amazing holiday You can also Book:   Yarra Valley Wine Tours

Makalidurga (65 Km from Bangalore)

 If your plan is to add adventure to the break, Makalidurga is counted among the top tourist attractions near Bangalore. It is a quiet village 59 km away from Bangalore with a hill known as Makalidurga Hill. The hill has a famous trekking trail, which attracts adventure junkies from all across the state to come and test their mettle. Claiming an altitude of more than 4,400 feet, the hilltop offers breathtaking views of green landscape as far as your eyes can see with the silvery lake that spans around the hills. To make the affair all the more thrilling, you are recommended to indulge in Makalidurga trek at night. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  65 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 Hour 45 Minutes 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 to visit Makalidurga:  September to February Ideal weekend duration: One day Where to Stay: Green Valley resort, Aura foothills, Farmstead, etc. Check Out: 21 Best Spa Resorts Around Bangalore

Bannerghatta National Park (22 Km from Bangalore)

Feel like escaping into the woods to forget all worries? Lose yourself in the beauty and serenity of the Bannerghatta National Park. Situated only 22 kms from Bangalore, the  Bannerghatta National Park  is one of those nearby places to visit which truly allures the nature lovers. Lush green vegetation and rich biodiversity make the national park a favourite among nature lovers.

Spread over 25,000 acres, the Bannerghatta National Park is one of the richest, natural biodiversity reserves. The national park is home to wildlife animals ranging from tigers to butterflies. An ideal location for a quick getaway from the city and relax in the tranquility of the wilderness. Type of destination: Wildlife Distance:  22 kms from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 Hours Best Time to Visit:  Winter season. Where to stay:  Bannerghatta Nature Camp, Radiant resorts, Deroots Solutions, Prakruti Farms, etc. Popular Reads:  20 Best National Parks in Bangalore

Antaragange (67 Km from Bangalore)

Antaragange is situated at a distance of 70 km from Bangalore. Antaragange is an excellent example of nature’s creativity. Strewn with rocks and boulders, Antaragange has some excellent caves that have formed from volcanic rocks. So if you are fond of cave exploration and trekking, Antaragange is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. With a fairly easy terrain for trekking and cave exploration, Antaragange offers an enjoyable weekend in the lap of nature. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  67 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Sai Nandhini AC Lodge,  Four Points by Sheraton Bengaluru How to reach:  By Air:  The nearest airport to Anthargange is Bangalore International Airport. By Road:   There no buses available for Anthargange but still one can hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Anthargange is Kolar Railway Station(3 km away). Popular Reads: 11 Best Resorts in Devanahalli for a relaxing stay You Can Also Checkout Great Deals on:   Seine River Cruise

Wonderla (35 Km from Bangalore)

Ranked as the best amusement park in India, Wonderla is located on the outskirts of Bangalore, creating an easy getaway for city-dwellers. Spanning across a large area, the park features a collection of more than 60 exhilarating rides. While some of these rides are nerve-wracking, and are strictly designed for real daredevils, rest can be enjoyed by all. In addition to fun attractions like Recoil, Cornetto, and Wave Pool, the park also has a range of restaurants serving local and international delicacies. So if you cannot decide on a destination for your next family trip, Wonderla should sound like a perfect plan. Type of destination: Amusement park Distance:  35 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 1 Hour 10 Minutes 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:  November to February. Ideal Weekend Duration: One day How to Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport Nedumbassery, approximately 26 km or 16.2 miles from the Park. By  Train:  At a distance of 18.8 km from Kochi City Centre Railway Station. By Road: From Ernakulam south station, board on to Kakkanad bus. From Kakkanad nearly 7 km to  Wonderla. Must Read: 4 Best Resorts in Whitefield Bangalore for a luxurious stay

Big Banyan Tree (29 Km from Bangalore)

The biggest Banyan tree of India is situated in a village called Kethohalli located on the outskirts of Bangalore. This tree is known as Dodda Alada Mara and covers more than 3 acres of land. Among all the places around Bangalore, people specially flock from all over the world to witness this majestic and beautiful tree. Since the roots of the tree suffered some natural disease, this single tree gives the look of a group of trees. 

The breathtaking view of this tree is a memorable experience for all the tourists who take out their time to visit this place.  One can easily take the bus or a car and reach this place under one hour and explore the area. Since this is a banyan tree it's full of monkeys, langurs, etc; so one needs to be careful as these animals are wild and not tamed. Type of destination:  Family Getaway Distance:  29 kms from Bangalore Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes Ideal Weekend Duration:  One day Where to Stay: The Country club, Ruppi's Hotel & Resort, Siri Spandana, etc Suggested Reads: 25 Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore Within 500 Kms

Places to Visit near Bangalore within 200 Kms

Bheemeshwari (102.5 km from bangalore).

If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can go for trekking or participate in adventure activities. Thrillophilia can arrange for stay in comfortable jungle lodges if you intend to spend a day or two in the peaceful atmosphere at Bheemeshwari. Type of destination:  Family getaway Distance: 102.5 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 3 hours 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Best places to stay in Bheemeshwari Must Read: 30 Best Beaches near Bangalore

Top Experiences To Do in Bheemeshwari

• Bheemeshwari

Shivanasamudra (135 Km from Bangalore)

An extraordinarily scenic spectacle of nature in Karnataka, Shivanasamudra is one of the perfect places near Bangalore to visit. Several parallel streams of cool water run towards a gorge and plunge into a pool with a roaring noise, creating a misty aura emerging from milky white waters. The twin drops are called Gaganachukki and Barachukki falls, both have a total height of 300 feet. These falls are located near the banks of Kaveri River, and are surrounded by verdant landscapes. So if you want to make your weekend memorable, visit this  with your family and relish the refreshing scenery. Type of destination: Family getaway Distance:  135 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 3 Hours 16 Minutes Places to Visit in  Shivanasamudra Waterfalls:  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 Ideal Weekend Duration:   1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Hotel Mayura Bharachukki,  Vanam Farm How to reach: By Air:  The two nearest airports to Shivanasamudra is Bangalore International Airport and Mysore Airport. By Road:   There are various buses daily running from Bangalore and Mysore to Shivanasamudra. Also, one can have a road trip from Bangalore to Shivanasamudra. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Shivanasamudra is Muddur Railway Station(50 km away). Must Read: 35 Best 3 Days Trip From Bangalore

Best of Goa

Kunti Betta (123 Km from Bangalore)

Situated around 123km from the heart of the city, Kunti Betta is also one amongst the popular places around Bangalore for trekking and a hub for the adventure seekers. Though the vicinity boasts of its unique beauty and appeal, its allurement gets double-fold during the nights making it one of the best places to go around Bangalore. It is during this period, trekkers from different places throngs Kunti Betta and embarks on a night trek expedition to the peak and satiates their carvings for fun and adventure. Type of destination: Hilly D istance:  123 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 3 hours 5 minutes Places to Visit  in Kunti Betta:  Kunti Kund, Kunti Temple, Thonnur Lake, etc. Things to do in Kunti Betta:  Go for Night Trekking in the hills of Kunti Betta, Spend some time at the Thonnur Lake Best Time:  Between the months of September to February Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace & Spa, Silent Shores Resort & Spa How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Kunti Betta is Mysore Airport(33 km away). By Road:  There no buses available for Kunti Betta but still one can hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Kunti Betta is Mysore Railway Station(30 km away). Must Read: 15 Best Places for Night Trekking in Bangalore for a thrilling experience

Lepakshi (122 Km from Bangalore)

This small village located in Andhra Pradesh has some significant temples and shrines that are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Veerbhadra and Lord Vishnu. People from all over the world come to Lepakshi to pray in these temples and witness the intricate carvings and architecture present here. The most famous of all the shrines is the large concrete sculpture of the holy bull Nandi. Lepakshi Nandi is a humongous yet beautiful sculpted sculpture that is breathtaking. Besides these temples, one can also find small temples dedicated to Maa Durga, Raghunatha and so on. The Veerabhadra Temple present here also has a pillar that hangs from the top but does not touch the floor yet is able to support the temple. Everyone thinks that the hanging pillar is nothing but excellent use if art and architecture. This pillar adds a magical aura to this place. Type of destination:  Historical place Distance:  122 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 2 Hours 15 minutes Places to visit in Lepakshi: Kalyana Mandapa,  Veerabhadra Temple, Lepakshi Nandi, Penukonda Fort, etc Things to do in Lepakshi: Visit the famous historical sights, Get blessed at the spiritual temples Best time:  November and March Ideal Weekend duration:  One - two days Where to stay:  Lepakshi Haritha Hotel, JVS paradise, Palla residency, etc. How to reach:  By Flight: The nearest airport to Lepakshi is located at a distance of 43 km, which is the Sri Sathya Sai Airport By Train: There are no direct trains from Bangalore to Lepakshi By Road: If you want to enjoy a road trip from Bangalore to Lepakshi, you can either take a car or a bus Must Read:  New Year Parties in Bangalore

Mysore (144.5 Km from Bangalore)

For any history or architecture buff, Mysore, the former capital of the Kingdom of Mysore, is one of the best tourist places near Bangalore. From Mysore Palace standing as a brilliant, opulent illustration of Indo-Saracenic architecture to Somanathapura Temple exhibiting the fineness of Hoysala architecture, the city is replete with marvels from the past to explore. Besides, Mysore is also popular among shoppers as its traditional markets are known to sell a great variety of silk, sandalwood, and spices. So if you are interested to steep into the vivid cultural shades of the region, plan a trip to Mysore. Type of destination: Historical Distance:  144.5 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 3 Hours 30 Minutes 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days  Where to Stay:  Best Places to Stay in Mysore How to reach: By Air:  Mysore Airport is well-connected to all the cities of the country. By Road:  There are luxury buses available for Mysore also one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station is Mysore Railway Station(12 km away). Popular Reads: 15 Best Places to visit near Mysore

Top Experiences To Do in Mysore

Best of Coorg

Srirangapatna (125 Km from Bangalore)

Srirangapatna is a city which is located very close to Mysore and is a major pilgrimage site for the people of India. The city is very rich in its culture and religion. The presence of Ranganathaswamy Temple is what makes it a famous religious place. Srirangapatna is not just a religious city, it has played quite a few roles in shaping the history of India. The city also has the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is also a tourist attraction and people from all over the country visit the city just to capture a moment of these birds in camera. One can also visit the Balmuri Falls present in the city and watch the lovely cascading waterfall. The Daria Daulat Bagh is a teakwood palace which was built in the 18th century. Srirangapatna is one of the perfect places to go around Bangalore as one feel closer to God as well as enjoy the beauty of nature and its beings here. Type of destination:  Historical place Distance: 125 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 3 hours Places to visit in Srirangapatna: Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Gumbaz, Balmuri Falls, Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, etc. Things to do in Srirangapatna: Visit temples and forts, Take a tour of historical places, Explore wildlife sanctuaries. Best time:  October - March.  Ideal Weekend duration:  One - two days Where to stay:  Mayura River View, Amblee Holiday resort, Mayura River View, etc.

Shravanabelagola (143 Km from Bangalore)

Shravanabelagola is a religious place and many people from Bangalore come here for a trip. One feels connected to their spiritual self after visiting Shravanabelagola. The city is located at an altitude of 3350 feet above sea level, making the weather conditions quite pleasant here making it one of the best places to go around Bangalore. Shravanabelagola is a major pilgrimage site for the Jains. Thousands of people visit the city as their gurus reside here in Mutts. The Gomateshwara Temples is the main reason for the vast number tourists the city hosts throughout the year. In order to reach the temple, one has to climb 700 steps. Lord Gomateshwara statue is present here which is the largest monolithic stone statue in the whole world. Since the temple is located on a hilltop, it offers an outstanding view of the surrounding. Type of destination:  Religious place Distance:  143 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes Places to visit in Shravanabelagola : Chamundaraya BasadI, Odegal Basadi, Bahubali Gomateshwara Temple, etc. Things to do in Shravanabelagola: Best time:  June to September. Ideal Weekend duration:  One - two days Where to stay:  Hotel Raghu, S.D.K Residency, Thirumala Lodge, Sri Ganesha Lodge Check Out:  20 Best Resorts Around Bangalore For A Fun-Filled Family Day Outing

Horsley Hills (157 Km from Bangalore)

Situated at an altitude of 4100 feet above sea level, one will be mesmerized by the picturesque view of the place. There are many places to visit near Bangalore for one day but Horsley Hills is arguably amongst the prettiest of the lot. There are many activities which one can do here but the trekking is the most sought-after activity here. Trekking is considered to be the best activity if one wants to explore nature and appreciate its beauty. The best part about trekking at the Horsley Hills is the outstanding panoramic view of the surrounding nature one gets from the top of the hill. One will feel as if they are in a dream because of the presence of lush green lands, beautiful hills and a river flowing between the hills. Type of destination:  Hilly D istance: 157 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 4 hours 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Horsley Hills Holiday Homes, Horsley Hills Haritha Hill Resort How to reach:  By Air:  The nearest airport to Horsley Hills is Bangalore International Airport. By Road:  There are APSRTC Deluxe buses daily running from various cities to Horsley Hills. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Horsley Hills as it takes about three and a half hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Horsley Hills is Tirupati which is just a few hours away from the destination. Check Out: 20 Popular Tourist Places near Bangalore within 400 Kms

Best of Munnar

Yelagiri (161 Km from Bangalore)

Yelagiri Hill is located at a height of 1410 meters above the sea level, prominent for its salubrious climate and pretty amazing places, ensures a pleasant weekend getaway for backpackers.This intriguing hill station in Tamil Nadu embraces many tribal inhabitants who perform agriculture, horticulture, forestry, etc. Among other hill station places to visit near Bangalore, Yelagiri hill station stands out unique for its ancient Hindu temples and monuments. Hence, Yelagiri Hills comes under the bucket list of every family tripper and honeymooner to spend time with their dear ones. Type of destination:  Hilly Distance:  161 km from Bangalore. Travel time:  Approximately 3 hours 40 minutes 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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Places to Stay on your Trip to Yelagiri Hills How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Yelagiri Hills is Bangalore Airport(123 km away). By Road:  There are private buses daily running from Bangalore and Vellore to Yelagiri Hills. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Yelagiri Hills as it takes about four hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Yelagiri Hills is Jolarpettai which is just a few hours away from the destination. Popular Reads: Best Rafting Tours in Bangalore to experience adventure

Top Experiences To Do in Yelagiri

Biligiri Ranga Hills (179 Km from Bangalore)

A hill range in Karnataka which also qualifies as one of the best tourist places near Bangalore, Biligiri Ranga Hills is famous for its lush green, undulating hills. More commonly known as BR Hills, the range encompasses BRT Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Thus, a number of nature lovers from across the country visit BR Hills for wildlife exploration. Since it is located between Kaveri and Tungabhadra rivers, you also have the privilege to indulge in thrilling activities like river rafting and kayaking in addition to trekking. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  179 km  from Bangalore  Travel time: Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes  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 Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Resorts to Stay in BR Hills How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to BR Hills is Mysore Airport(97 km away). By Road:  There are KSRTC Deluxe buses daily running from Chamarajnagar, Bangalore or Kanakapura to BR Hills. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to BR Hills as it takes about four hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to BR Hills is Chamarajanagar which is just a few hours away from the destination.

Hassan (183 Km from Bangalore)

Hassan is a district in the state Karnataka which has several places where can go for a trip. Located at an altitude of 935 m above sea level, the whole Hassan district is a hill station. Belur is one of the places in the Hassan district which is a popular tourist place near Bangalore. It was the capital city during the reign of the Hoysala king, who had made the city. The district has some amazingly beautiful spots which are rare to find in India. One is sure to be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of the places present in Hassan. The Bisile Ghat is one of the best places to visit in Hassan. It has everything which one looks for in a weekend getaway. The breathtaking picturesque view which one gets to witness in the Bisile Ghat is simply outstanding. The Hasanamba Temple is amongst the many famous temples which the place hosts. Hassan should be visited by everyone as it a really beautiful place to be in. Type of destination: Hill station Distance:  183 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 3 hours Places to visit in Hassan: Belur Sri Chennakeshava Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple, Manjarabad Fort, Shettihalli Rosary Church, etc. Things to do in Hassan: Trekking, Camping, bike riding, visit temples and forts, etc. Best time:  November-February Ideal Weekend duration: One - two days Where to stay:  Vaishnavi Lodging, Chiranth Lodge, Suvarna Regency, Hotel Abhiruchi Lodging, etc

Best of Wayanad

Places to Visit near Bangalore within 300 Kms

Bandipur (221 km from bangalore).

One of the few tiger reserves in the country, Bandipur National Park boasts of rich biodiversity. Covered in dry, deciduous forests, Bandipur is one of the best places to go near bangalore if you are a nature lover. There are many resorts near Bandipur that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation and also take you on safaris to help you see the wildlife in its full glory. Type of destination: Wildlife Distance:  221 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes Places to Visit in Bandipur:  Bandipur National Park, Biligirirangan Hills, etc. Things to do in Bandipur:   Explore Animals at Bandipur National Park , Enjoy Trekking at the Biligirirangan Hills Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Bandipur How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Bandipur is Coimbatore Airport (84 km away). By Road:  There are private buses running to Bandipur on daily basis also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Bandipur is Mysore which are just a few hours away from the destination.

Nagarhole (222 Km from Bangalore)

Encompassing forested plains and hills teeming with a wide spectrum of animal and bird species, Nagarhole is a national park, and one of the best tourist places near Bangalore. The gushing river streams cutting across the verdant forests of the park add to its picturesqueness. To soak up the essence of the wildlife and wilderness, stay at one of the jungle lodges located within the buffer zones. As you take a journey into the deeper parts of the forests, you may get lucky to spot Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. Furthermore, with 270 bird species calling Nagarhole their home, this place is one of the best places to see around Bangalore for animal lovers and a paradise for bird watching as well Type of destination:  Wildlife Distance:  222 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 4 hours 50 minutes Places to Visit in Nagarhole:   Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole National Park, Rameshwara Temple, etc. Things to do in Nagarhole:   Have a Trekking experience at Nagarhole National Park, Visit the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Places to Stay in Nagarhole How to reach: By Air:  The two nearest airports to Nagarhole are Calicut Airport and Bangalore International Airport. By Road:  There are KSRTC Deluxe buses daily running from various cities to Nagarhole. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Nagarhole as it takes about five hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Nagarhole is Mysore and Mahe which are just a few hours away from the destination.

Yercaud (229 Km from Bangalore)

Yercaud is amongst the most popular tourist destination in South India. One of the chief places to visit near Bangalore, Yercaud is hill station and it is nothing like the rest of the hill stations in the country. It is renowned all over the country for its orange groves, fruit and spices and coffee. Yercaud is the source of a major portion of the coffee production in the Southern India. The hill station has an amazing lake, Yercaud Lake and many more beautiful tourist places. People can stay in a boathouse on the Yercaud Lake and enjoy the mesmerizing picturesque view of the terrains and natural habitats the place has to offer. One can also visit the Kiliyur Falls in Yercaud and feel closer to nature. Yercaud is located at an altitude of 1623 m above the sea and is the perfect place to visit if one wants to relax. Type of destination:  Hill station Distance:  229 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 4 hours 40 minutes Places to Visit in Yercaud:   Yercaud Lake, 32 km Loop Road, Pagoda Point, etc. Things to do in Yercaud:   Visit Yercaud Lake, Enjoy Hiking at the Kiliyur Falls Best Time:  Between the months of October to June Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best and Comfortable Places to Stay in Yercaud How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Yercaud is Coimbatore Airport(152 km away). By Road:  There are private buses running to Yercaud on daily basis also, one can go for a short road trip along the loop road to reach the destination. By Train:  The two nearest railway station to Yercaud is Danishpet and Salem which are just a few hours away from the destination. Check Out: Go for a Bangalore to Yercaud trip for creating some memories.

Top Experiences To Do in Yercaud

Best of Chikmagalur

Mudumalai National Park (235 Km from Bangalore)

To experience pure nature and explore exotic wildlife, look no further than Mudumalai National Park in Tamil Nadu. Set in the lush jungles of Nilgiri District, this reserved forest area is home to more than 500 species of animals, birds, and reptiles in addition to a wide array of flora. Animals like tigers, elephants, and panthers call Mudumalai home, and have high sighting probability during jungle safari. Furthermore, the sanctuary is absolutely a work of nature’s art with verdant plains, swelling hills, river streams, and lakes adding to its visual appeal. All in all, Mudumalai is certainly one of the best places to visit near Bangalore. Type of destination: Wildlife Distance:  235 km from Bangalore Travel time: 5 Hours 20 Minutes Places to Visit in Mudumalai :  Mudumalai National Park ,  Theppakadu Elephant Camp Things to do in Mudumalai:   Mudumalai National Park Safari ,  Pet the Elephants at Theppakadu Elephant Camp Best Time:   Between the months of December to June Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Best Places to Stay in Mudumalai How to reach: By Air:   The nearest airport to Mudumalai is Coimbatore Airport(127 km away). By Road:  There are private buses daily running from various cities to Mudumalai. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Mudumalai as it takes about five hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Mudumalai is Coimbatore which is just a few hours away from the destination. Must Read:   Homestays Around Bangalore that you will miss after staying in them

Top Experiences To Do in Mudumalai

Masinagudi (245 Km from Bangalore)

Masinagudi known for its wildlife and biodiversity offers some of the mesmerizing tourist attractions to all kinds of travellers. From Maravakandy Dam to Theppakadu Elephant Camp, Moyar River to Mudumalai Sanctuary, one can get engaged with numerous places and become a part of the Mother Nature. As this tourist place is engaged by travellers throughout the year, it offers different types of activities at different seasons. Hence, it makes sure to fulfill everyone’s travel needs. This unparalleled hilly terrain in the Western Ghats gives shelter to exotic wildlife animals and birds. Tourists who come here will take the Jeep Safari at least once.   Type of destination: W ildlife and Biodiversity  Distance:  245 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes Places to Visit in Masinagudi:   Masinagudi Jeep Safari,  Maravakandy Dam, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. Things to do in  Masinagudi :  Have an Adventurous Jungle Stay at Masinagudi,  Visit the Maravakandy Dam Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Best Resorts to Stay in Masinagudi How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Masinagudi is Mysore Airport(90 km away) By Road:  There are private buses running daily from Coimbatore and Bangalore to Masinagudi also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The two nearest railway station from Masinagudi is Ooty and Coonoor which are  just a few hours away.

Top Experiences To Do in Masinagudi

Tadiandamol (269 Km from Bangalore)

Giving adventure junkies the opportunity to scale the highest mountain peak in Coorg, Tadiandamol is an excellent nature getaway for places to see around Bangalore. Tadiandamol Trek is the reason why hundreds of adventurers visit this place every week to experience a top-notch thrill. Once you have made it to the top, you will be greeted by panoramic vistas of the verdant landscapes that surround the hill. The 14 km trek will not only give you immense peace but will also quench your thirst for thrill. The feeling of camping over the cities and under a starlit sky is surely going to make your venture a rewarding experience. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  269 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 6 Hours 30 Minutes Places to Visit in Tadiandamol:  Tadiandamol Peak, Virajpet, etc. Things to do in Tadiandamol:   Go Trekking to the Tadiandamol Peak, Visit the Virajpet Best Time:  Between the months of December to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 4 days Where to Stay:  The Tamara Coorg, Misty Woods Resort How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Tadiandamol is Mangalore International Airport(118 km away). By Road:  There are private buses available for Tadiandamol also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station is Mysore Railway Station(107 km away). Book Now: An Amazing trek to Tadiandamol for 2 days

Best of Ooty

Gandikota (282 Km from Bangalore)

Best known for its canyons and gorges, which are often compared with the Grand Canyon of the USA, Gandikota is a village in Andhra Pradesh. Located at a distance of 282 km from Bangalore, it is one of the best tourist places near Bangalore if you want to spend your vacation exploring something different from the rest. The village is located on the banks of the Penna River, creating a dramatic scenery any photographer would like to document through photographs. Apart from this, history buffs will also have a great time in Gandikota with sites such as Gandikota Fort and Raghunatha Swamy Temple. Type of destination: Family Distance:  282 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 6 Hours Places to Visit in Gandikota :  Gandikota Fort Mosque, Gandikota Fort Entrance, Ranganatha Swamy Temple, etc Things to do in  Gandikota:   Cave exploration, Visit forts and mosque and temples, etc. Best Time:  September to February  Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Gandikota Haritha Hotel, Royal County Resorts, etc How to reach: By Air:   Tirupati Airport at Renigunta and Bengaluru International Airport at Bangalore are the nearest airports to Gandikota. One can take a flight to either of them and cover the rest of the distance to Bangaluru Airport is 345 km (6 hours) from Gandikota while Tirupati Airport is 220 km (4.5 hours) away from the same. By Road:  Gandikota is well connected to major cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad and Vizag through the NH 7. By Train: The nearest railway station to Gandikota are at Jammalamadugu (18 km away), Kadapa (77 km away), and Tirupati (219 km away).

Belum Caves (297 Km away from Bangalore)

Belum can be said to be amongst the most famous places of Southern India. The city hosts one of the best caves in the country, the Belum Caves. The Belum caves are amongst longest and the largest cave system which is open to the public in the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its stalactites and stalagmites formations.  The caving experience one gets here is unparalleled. Belum is a beautiful place to see around Bangalore. One gets to witness a picturesque view nature. The city is the ideal place to go if one wants to feel close to nature and forget about their busy city life. Type of destination:  Historical Distance:  297 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 5 hours 40 minutes Best Time:  November to February Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Hotel Shobha, Hotel Masineni Grand, Hotel Pasupala Grand, etc

Coonoor (293 Km from Bangalore)

Perched in the lap of Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor is a pretty hill station in the state of Tamil Nadu. The serene feel of Coonoor paired with its mesmerizing misty aura make it one count as one of the top tourist places near Bangalore. Since the place boasts an elevation of 1,930 metres, one can be sure to experience cool temperatures during all the seasons. The sprawling tea estates here, set on the rolling slopes of Nilgiri Hills, are a major attraction. Besides, the hill station also features well-known waterfalls and vantage points which are frequented by tourists seeking good photograph opportunities. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  293 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 7 Hours Places to Visit in Coonoor:   Catherine Falls, Sim’s Park, Droog Fort, etc. Things to do in Coonoor:   Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Catherine Falls, Explore the Droog Fort, Go Shopping in the Local markets of Coonoor Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Coonoor How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Coonoor is Coimbatore International Airport(45  km away) By Road:  There are private buses running to Coonoor on daily basis also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Coonoor is Mettupalayam(45 km away) which connects the town to all the cities.

Best of Sakleshpur

Places to Visit near Bangalore within 500 Kms

Shimoga (302 km from bangalore).

Located in Karnataka, Shimoga District is known for it's natural beauty and the serene environment that is present there. It has a rich culture and very hospitable locals who greet the tourists with warm hearts.This small village is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway to escape the hustle bustle of the busy city life. One can visit the Jog Falls and enjoy the breathtaking scenery present here. There are some recreational camps present here as well where tourists can do adventurous activities in Shimoga. Being surrounded by water bodies one can go river rafting or kayaking to feel more adventurous. One can go for sightseeing and explore the rich culture present here. One can also visit the sanctuaries present here to witness some very majestic and beautiful species of wildlife and connect with nature spiritually. One can even go trekking or night camping on the hills to enjoy panoramic views and feel rejuvenated. Type of destination:  Village Distance: 302   km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 5 hours 40 minutes Places to Visit in Shimoga:  Dabbe Falls, Kodachadri, Jog Falls, etc. Things to do in Shimoga:   Enjoy a day at the Jog Falls, Visit the Kodachadri Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Best Homestays to Stay in Shimoga How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Shimoga is Mangalore Airport(195 km away). By Road:  There are private buses daily running from various cities to Shimoga. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Shimoga as it takes about five hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Shimoga is Bangalore which is just a few hours away from the destination. Popular Reads: 12 Best Waterfalls in Shimoga for an amazing family picnic.

Top Experiences To Do in Shimoga

Kudremukh (332 Km from Bangalore)

Amongst the green and verdant coffee estates of Chikmagalur rises a peak that is also known as ‘The Horse Face Peak’. Trek to Kudremukh is a treat for all those who want to indulge in the beauty of nature this season! Passing through lush forest lands, the trail also lead you through some of the most amazing waterfalls and streams along the way. Located at a distance of 332km from Bangalore, Kudremukh can be easily reached by road and is one of the offbeat tourist places near Bangalore. Open meadowlands, grassy knolls and embellished with gorgeous views of the surrounding, the trek is suddenly one of the must-dos!

Type of destination:  Hill station Distance:  221 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 6 hours 30 minutes Places to Visit in Kudremukh:  Kudremukh Peak,  Kudremukh National Park , Hanuman Gundi Falls, Kalasa Things to do in Kudremukh:  Enjoy Trekking at Kudremukh Peak , Visit the Kudremukh National Park, Spend a day at the Hanuman Gundi Falls Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Places & Resorts to Stay in Kudremukh How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Kudremukh is Mangalore Airport(93 km away). By Road:  There are many KSRTC buses connecting Kudremukh to various cities. Also, one can hire a cab from Bangalore to Kudremukh. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Kudremukh is Mangalore Station(113km away).

Dandeli (460 Km from Bangalore)

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka is home to an unusual biodiversity and a hub for adventure. If you are in the mood for some action, Dandeli qualifies for one of the finest places near Bangalore for an adventure-filled vacation. For wildlife enthusiasts, to indulge in jungle safari and spot animals like black panthers, deer, and elephants roaming in their natural habitat is a memorable experience. Or, if the idea of participating in water-based adventures exhilarates you, Dandeli is quite famous for canoeing, kayaking, and water rafting. To give a further boost to your adrenaline, you can also embark on a trekking expedition here. Type of destination: Wildlife Distance:  460 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 8 Hours 30 Minutes Places to Visit in Dandeli:   River Kali, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Shiroli Peak, Sykes Point, Kavala Caves,  Sathodi Falls Things to do in Dandeli:   Go Rafting in River Kali, Enjoy Hiking at the Kavala Caves, Spend a day among Animals of Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary,  Experience Kayaking in Supa Reservoir Best Time:  Between the months of October to February and in Summers between March to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Dandeli How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Dandeli is Hubli Airport(74 km away). By Road:  There are a number of buses connecting Dandeli to various cities. And, one can have a road trip of about 8 hours from Banglore to Dandeli. By Train:  The two nearest railway station to Dandeli is Dharwad (55 km away) and Alnavar(32 km away). Must Read: Best Trekking Tours in Dandeli

Top Experiences To Do in Dandeli

Best of Pondicherry

Pondicherry (310 Km from Bangalore)

A great escape from the discord of Bangalore is to bless yourself with some beach time in Pondicherry. Once a French Colonial settlement, this coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu is dotted with vibrant buildings that make its cityscape a potpourri of colours. One of the most sought after places near Bangalore worth visiting with family and friends, this city has beautifully designed churches, bungalows, and Hindu temples. More importantly, to soothe your senses with tranquillity of nature, the city has sites like Auro Beach, Promenade Beach and Serenity Beach, bordering the Arabian Sea. Type of destination: Beach Getaway Distance:  310 km from Bangalore Travel time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes Places to Visit in Pondicherry:  Paradise Beach, Auroville, Rock Beach, Old Lighthouse, Pondy Bazaar, etc. Things to do in Pondicherry:  Scuba Diving at Eastern Coast of India, Visit the Auroville, Relax at Old Lighthouse Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay while Visiting Pondicherry How to reach: By Air:  Mysore Airport is well-connected to all the cities of the country. By Road:  There are private buses daily running from various cities to Pondicherry. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Pondicherry as it takes about six hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station is Villupuram Railway Junction. Check Out:  Best Beaches in Pondicherry

Top Experiences To Do in Pondicherry

• Pondicherry

Hampi (341 Km from Bangalore)

If one gets excited by the history of India, then Hampi is the ideal place to visit for them. The city, Hampi, is located in the southern part of Karnataka. The city was thriving during the 14th century and had been described as the most prosperous city in India. Several temples and monuments had been built at Hampi but most of them have been destroyed by now.  The remains of many temples are still present in the city. UNESCO has categorized the monuments at Hampi as a World Heritage Site and the place a number of tourists throughout the because of it. Hampi is one of the best places to go near Bangalore as one gets to learn a lot about ancient India and also about the culture of the people living in the place. Type of destination: Historical place Distance:   341 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 6 hours 30 minutes Places to Visit in Hampi:   Archeological Museum, Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple,  Virupaksha Temple, etc. Things to do in Hampi :  Enjoy Rock Climbing at Hemakuta Hills, Visit the Ruins of  Virupaksha Temple Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:   2 to 4 days Where to Stay:  Best Places to Stay in Hampi How to reach: By Air:   The two nearest airports to Hampi is Hubli Airport and Bangalore International Airport. By Road:  There are many private buses connecting Hampi to various cities. Also, one can hire a cab from Bangalore to Hampi as it takes about six and a half hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Hampi is Hospet Station(13km away).

Top Experiences To Do in Hampi

Kolli Hills (348 Km from Bangalore)

Famous for its winding road with 70 hairpin bends, Koli Hills is a picturesque hill station in Tamil Nadu, set an elevation of 1,300 metres. 257 km away from Bangalore, this town has a fairly good range of accommodations to offer visitors a peaceful stay experience.  If you want to spend your vacation breathing in fresh air, witnessing magical sunsets, and bask in the lap of nature, this is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore. In terms of sightseeing attractions, Dravdian style Arapaleeswarar Temple, Tampcol Medicinal Farm and Agaya Gangai Waterfall are some excellent options. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  348 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 5 Hours Places to Visit in Agumbe :   Arapaleeswarar Temple, Tampcol Medicinal Farm, Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, etc Things to do in Agumbe :   Explore the many viewpoints, Trekking, visit many temple and waterfalls, etc. Best Time:  February to December. Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Silverline Retreat Hotel, Nallathambi Resort, etc. How to reach: By Air:  Trichy domestic airport is the closest airstrip from the hill station of Kolli Hills. Located at a distance of about 90 kilometers, one can reach Kolli Hills from the nearby cities like that of Chennai, Bangalore, Madurai, and so on, by reaching Trichy airport via regular flights. By Train:  The railway station of Salem is the nearest railhead to Kolli Hills which is located at a distance of just 90 kilometers. By Road:  One can travel via state-run buses from Salem which is well connected with the nearby cities of Chennai, Madurai, and so on. Other than that, one can also choose to hire a taxi from the nearest airport or the nearest railway station which would cost the travelers approximately INR 1000 to INR 1200 on an average.

Best of Kodaikanal

Agumbe (348 Km from Bangalore)

A sleepy hillside village in Karnataka, Agumbe is among the lesser known tourist places near Bangalore. If you are tired of dealing with your mundane affairs and want to go someplace scenic and quiet, away from Bangalore, head to Agumbe without a second thought. The absence of man-made attractions protects the village from the touristy bustle, preserving its pristine nature and quaintness. The landscape of Agumbe is rich with dense foliage of rainforest, which often hides under the covers of mist. Also, there are numerous waterfalls all across the village, namely Barkana Waterfall, Kunchikal Waterfall, and Onake Abbi Falls. Type of destination: Hill station Travel time: Approximately 7 Hours Distance:  348 km from Bangalore Places to Visit in Agumbe :   Agumbe Ghat, Agumbe Rainforest Research Centre, Koodlu Thertha Falls Things to do in Agumbe :   Enjoy a fun-filled day at the Agumbe Ghat, Visit the Koodlu Thertha Falls Best Time:  Between the months of June to October Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  The Highlands Homestay, Muduvalli Heritage Homestay How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Agumbe is Mangalore Airport(106 km away). By Road:  There are many KSRTC buses connecting Agumbe to various cities. Also, one can go for a road trip from Bangalore to Agumbe as it takes around eight hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Agumbe is Udupi Station(54 km away).

Jog Falls (402 Km from Bangalore)

The Jog Falls is one of the best places to go near Bangalore. It is also called the Gerusoppa Falls. The waterfalls in a single fall from a height of 253 m to the ground in the Jog Falls. The Jog Falls is one of the main tourist attraction of Southern India because it is the second highest waterfall in India. The waterfall of the Jog Falls is a spectacle to watch and there are not many places in India where one can enjoy the beauty of such a magnificent waterfall.  The Jog Falls is considered to be amongst the best weekend getaway trips from Bangalore as one can just delve into the enchanting aura of the waterfall and get lost in it. One will surely feel relaxed and rejuvenated after their visit to the Jog Falls. Type of destination:  Family getaway Distance:  402 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes Places to Visit in Jog Falls:  Jog Falls, Sigandur,  Thyvare Koppa Lion and Tiger Reserve, etc. Things to do in Jog Falls:  Enjoy Water sports in Jog Falls,  Spend a Day at the Thyvare Koppa Lion and Tiger Reserve Best Time:  Between the months of July to December Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Mattuga Resort,  Ibbani Homestay How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Jog Falls is Hubli Airport. By Road:  There are private buses running to Jog Falls on a daily basis also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Jog Falls is Shimoga which is just a few hours away.

Udupi (403 Km from Bangalore)

Udupi is a small city flooded with temples in South India. It has famous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna that are visited by thousands of pilgrims each year. Besides the temples, this city is quite pious and rich in culture. One can find and explore the authentic South Indian culture that has been lost with the modernization of world. One can also enjoy traditional south Indian dishes that are served on a plate made of banana leaf.  This is the ultimate destination for all those tourists who want to delve into the history and culture of South India and get in touch with their spiritual self. Then there is the Heritage Bank Museum where the tourists can know more about the banking history in India. One can visit the St Mary's Island that is only a few kilometers away and has a great scenic view. Type of destination: Religious place Distance:  403 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 8 hours Places to Visit in Udupi:  Sri Krishna Matha, St. Mary’s Island,  Malpe Beach, etc. Things to do in Udupi:  Visit the Sri Krishna Matha,  Enjoy a day at the St. Mary’s Island Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts to Stay in Udupi How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Udupi is Mangalore Airport(45 km away). By Road:  There are private buses running to Udupi on daily basis also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station is Udupi Junction. Popular Reads:  Best Beaches in Udupi

Best of Gokarna

Malpe (407 Km from Bangalore)

Located on the coastline of Karnataka this small village is just 6 km far from the world-famous temple of Udupi. It is mainly famous for fishing activities but is also a great tourist spot. Tourists can easily drive up to Malpe from the nearby towns for a soothing picnic or to spend some time by the pristine beaches present here. The Malpe beach is both clean and beautiful, the gold and reflects the sun rays and makes the whole beach look like paradise. The calm sea water is perfect for swimming as one does not need to worry about drowning. One can take a ferry ride to visit the nearby islands and explore the entire Malpe region. During high tide, tourists can also enjoy activities like ferry boat ride, jet skiing and so on. Malpe is a small area but has lots to offer to its tourists.\ Type of destination: Pilgrimage place Distance:  407 km away from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 8 hours Places to Visit in Malpe :   St Mary's Island. Malpe beach, Malpe seawalk, Vadabhandeshwara Balaram Temple Things to do in  Malpe :   Enjoy a fun-filled day at the beaches, Visit churches, etc. Best Time:  Between the months of October and December. Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:  Malpe Sea Front Cottages, Paradise Isle Beach Resort, etc. How to reach: By Air: The nearest airport to the island is the Mangalore Airport, which is 58 km away from Malpe. You can take a taxi or bus till this boarding point and then a board a ferry for St. Mary's Island. By Rail: Situated around 4 km from Malpe is the railway station of Udupi By Rail:  Situated around 4 km from Malpe is the railway station of Udupi. You can easily find an auto rickshaw or a cab for Malpe. By Road:  The coast of Malpe is well connected by road to Mangalore and Udupi as well. There are a lot of public and private buses that ply on this route.

Kodachadri (412 Km from Bangalore)

Rising tall in the district of Shimoga, Kodachadri holds the honour of being amongst the tallest peaks in Karnataka. It is here that you can see incredibly beautiful views from the summit. The peak is famous for being the only place in the world from where you can witness views of the sunrise and sunset from the same spot. Witness the enchanting views of the Arabian Sea in the distance and the sight of numerous waterfalls on the way and climb this peak surrounded by thick woods to get a taste of adventure and excitement! Type of destination:  Hilly Distance:  412  km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 8 hours 20 minutes Places to Visit in Kodachadri: Kodachadri Sunset view point, Hidlumane Waterfalls, Sri Mookambika Temple, etc Things to do in  Kodachadri: Trek to Kodachadri Peak , Explore fauna and fauna, feel the nature, visit temples and peaks, etc. Best Time: September to January Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Kodachadri Pathalagere Homestay,  Jyothis Residency, etc. How to reach: By Air :  Nearest Airport is at Managalore, from here buses and taxis are available to Kollur. By Road:  Kodachadri is 115 km from Shimoga, 20 km from Kollur and 500 km away from Bengalaru.   Route from Bengalaru. is Bengalaru- Tumkur - Tiptur - Arsikere - Tarikere - Shimoga - Hosanagara - (Kollur) - Kodachadri. KSRTC runs only two Rajahamsa buses till Kollur directly from Bangalore.One bus will start at 7.30 PM and another bus will start at 8.30 pm. From kollur Jeeps are available till the peak. By Train:  Nearest railheads is Kundapura Railway Station (33km) or Mookambika Road (Baindur) in Konkan Rly route. From here hire a taxi to reach Kollur

Madurai (434 Km from Bangalore)

Madurai is one of the rare religious places near Bangalore. Madurai is an energetic place and pilgrims from all around the country come to the city to visit the temples here. It is a famous pilgrimage for Hindus due to the presence of the Meenakshi Amman Temple. The temple is made in the honor of Meenakashi, a form of Parvati. Madurai also hosts the Chithirai festival which celebrates the honor of Lord Vishnu and Meenakshi.  The procession of the festivals is attended by millions of people and is renowned all over the country. Madurai is the third most populous city of Tamil Nadu and the gateway towers of the Meenakshi Temple covers the majority portion of the skyline of Madurai. Madurai is an ideal place to visit for people who to connect to God and feel closer to their spiritual self. Type of destination:  Religious place Distance:  434 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 7 hours 30 minutes Places to Visit in Madurai:  Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal,  Alagar Koyil, etc. Things to do in Madurai:  Cycle rickshaw, Experience pottery tour, Visit temples and mahals, etc. Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  The SPK hotel, JC Residency, Hotel Aarathy How to reach: By Air:  Madurai  airport is just 10 km away from the main city and it is well connected to all major cities of India. Nearest international airport is Chennai. ... By Train: Direct trains are available from many cities of India. By Road: The city of  Madurai is well connected by all southern parts of India.

Top Experiences To Do in Madurai

Best of Hampi

Kodaikanal (465 Km from Bangalore)

Set at an altitude of 2,130 metres in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has to be one of the most picturesque places to visit near Bangalore. A respite from high temperatures and chaotic urban roads, Kodaikanal features cool climate and sights of forested hills enveloped in mist. If you are into photography, a visit to this place will give you hundreds of breathtaking frames to capture. Enjoy peaceful picnics by the lakes and waterfalls, trek to high vantage points through dense forests, and make lifelong memories with your loved ones – this hill station guarantees a therapeutic holiday. Type of destination: Hilly Distance:  465 km from Bangalore Travel time: 8 Hours 50 Minutes Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal Lake, Coakers Walk,  Bryant Park Things to do in Kodaikanal:  Go for a walk at the Coakers Walk,  Visit the Kodaikanal Lake Best Time:   Between the months of March to June Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:   Best Places to Stay in Kodaikanal How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport(120 km away). By Road:  There are TNSTC buses connecting Kodaikanal to various cities. Also, one can hire a cab from Bangalore to Kodaikanal as it takes about eight hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road(100km away). Must Read:   Best Waterfalls in Kodaikanal

Top Experiences To Do in Kodaikanal

Munnar (467 Km from Bangalore)

Munnar is one of the most famous towns in Kerala. It is a major tourist attraction for the people visiting Kerala . Located in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a hill station and the temperature here is quite pleasant throughout the year. The hill station was previously a British resort and it is surrounded by a number of tea plantations. The quality of tea available here is top notch and is exported to many countries on the planet. Munnar has the Eravikulam National Park, where one can view wild goats and lush green lands, and also houses the Lakkam Waterfalls. Hiking is a very common activity to do in Munnar due to which a number of hiking trails are present in Munnar. The hill station will help one forget all their stress and will energize them. Type of destination:  Hilly Distance: 467 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 9 hours 50 minutes Places to Visit in Munnar:   Attukal Waterfalls, Pothamedu View Point, TATA Tea Museum, etc. Things to do in Munnar:   Hike to the Anamudi Peak, Visit the Attukal Waterfalls Best Time:  Between the months of September to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  2 to 3 days Where to Stay:   Best Places to Stay on your Visit to Munnar How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Munnar is Kochi Airport(110 km away). By Road:  There are private buses daily running from various cities to Munnar. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Munnar as it takes about five hours to reach. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Munnar is Aluva which is just 100 km away from the destination. Popular Reads: 10 Best Waterfalls in Munnar

Top Experiences To Do in Munnar

Gokarna (487 Km from Bangalore)

Gokarna is a pilgrimage town located at a coastal region of Northern Karnataka. Its evolution from a mere pilgrim center to a most-visited travel destination showcases its great asset of natural wonders. After Goa, many foreign tourists flock together to Gokarna’s pristine beaches. It’s less crowd capacity and pollution-free water, delights the mind of tourists, especially beach lovers. Other than Hindu Temples, this place is home for unique water sports including Jet Ski, Beach Trek, Fishing, etc. Type of destination:  Pilgrimage Place Distance:   487 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 9 hours Places to Visit in Gokarna:   Om Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Kudle Beach,  Half moon beach Things to do in Gokarna:   Enjoy Trekking at the Om Beach , Visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Best Places & Resorts to Stay in Gokarna How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Gokarna is Goa Airport(106 km away). By Road:  There are private buses daily running from various cities to Gokarna. Also, one can drive from Bangalore to Gokarna as it takes about five hours to reach. By Train:   The nearest railway station to Gokarna is Gokarna Road Station which is just a few hours away from the destination. Popular Reads:   Best Beaches in Gokarna

Top Experiences To Do in Gokarna

Best of Shimoga

Murudeshwar (489 Km from Bangalore)

Brimming with spirituality and serenity, Murudeshwar is one of the best places near Bangalore for a family getaway in Karnataka. An overnight journey from Bangalore will take you to the abode of peace that this coastal town is. Among a fairly wide collection of tourist attractions claimed by Murudeshwar, a highly revered temple of Lord Shiva is the most prominent one. Adding grandeur to the aura of the temple is the world’s second tallest statue of Lord Shiva, surrounded by the sea from three sides. Besides, Murudeshwar Beach, Netrani Island, and Murudeshwar Fort are also sites worth exploring. Type of destination: Family Getaway Distance:  489 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 9 Hours 30 Minutes Places to Visit in Murudeshwara:   Netrani Island, Murudeshwar Temple, Murudeshwar Fort, etc. Things to do in Murudeshwara:  Explore the Beauty of Netrani Island, Spend a Day at the Murudeshwar Temple Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Mavalli Beach Heritage Hotel, Wild Woods Resort, Yaala’s Beach Inn How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Murudeshwar is Mangalore Airport(134 km away). By Road:  There are private buses running to Murudeshwar on daily basis also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  The nearest railway station is Murudeshwar Junction.

Places to Visit near Bangalore within 600 Kms

Dudhsagar falls (564 km from bangalore).

The Dudhsagar Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Southern India. The water falls from a height of about 1071 feet to the ground in the Dudhsagar Falls. As the name suggests, the water in the Dudhsagar Falls looks a lot like milk. The majestic waterfall is a spectacle to watch and is probably the only waterfall in India which is four-tiered. Located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, the Dudhsagar Falls hosts thousands of tourists every year.  People love watching the water cascade from such a great height and passing through all the tiers. The scenic beauty of the place is awe inspiring and one will feel very connected to nature after visiting this place. The Dudhsagar Falls helps people forget their busy city life and makes them feel relaxed. Type of destination: Family getaway Distance: 564 km from Bangalore Travel time: Approximately 11 hours Places to Visit in Dudhsagar:   Dudhsagar Falls, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. Things to do in Dudhsagar:  Enjoy Bird Watching at Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Visit the Dudhsagar Falls Best Time:  Between the months of October to May Ideal Weekend Duration:  1 to 2 days Where to Stay:  Dudhsagar Plantation, Shangri-la Jungle Village Resort How to reach: By Air:  The nearest airport to Dudhsagar is Dabolim Airport(70 km away). By Road:  There are many GTDC buses connecting Dudhsagar to various cities. Also, one can hire a cab from Bangalore to Dudhsagar. By Train:  The nearest railway station to Dudhsagar is Collem Station(6 km away).

Goa (572 Km from Bangalore)

Goa is not only the perfect weekend getaway for the people of Bangalore but of India. Goa houses a number of beaches and there are quite a few of those beaches which are considered to be the best in the world. People from all around the globe come to visit Goa and enjoy the lovely beaches here. Laying down on a boat, drinking beer and gazing at the starry sky is one of the few things that people do in Goa. It is the most toured place in India and every Indian does visit this place at least once in their lifetime.  There are lots of water activities also available in Goa. Parasailing, jet skiing, kite surfing, are some of the most common activities done here. If one has not visited Goa, then they are missing out on something which they cannot get anywhere else in India. Type of destination:  Beach Getaway Distance:   572 km from Bangalore Travel time:  Approximately 10 hours 45 minutes Places to Visit in Goa:   Baga Beach, Calangute Beach, Grand Island, Fort Aguada Things to do in Goa:   Enjoy Moonlight Kayaking at Bambolin Beach, Have an Ocean Trek at Arambol, Scuba Diving in Malvan Best Time:  Between the months of October to March Ideal Weekend Duration:  3 to 7 days Where to Stay:  Best Resorts in Goa to Stay How to reach: By Air:  Goa International Airport is well-connected to all the cities of the country. By Road:  There are several private and state-owned buses running to and from Goa on a daily basis also, one can always hire a cab or a self-driven taxi to reach the destination. By Train:  There are six railway stations in Goa but most used ones are Madgaon or Vasco-da-Gama. Check Out:   Best Adventure Activities in Goa

Top Experiences To Do in Goa

Best of Kabini

People Also Ask About Bangalore

What are the famous places to visit near bangalore within 100 km, where can i go for one day trip from bangalore within 200 km, which are the best places to visit near bangalore in 2 days within 500 kms, what are the places to visit around bangalore within 150 kms, how can i spend my weekend in bangalore, which are the best places to go near bangalore airport, what is the best time to visit bangalore, which are the best places to go near bangalore in december, which are the historical places near bangalore to visit with family, how can i spend 2 days in bangalore.

Bangalore is a city thriving with life and surrounded by natural attractions like gushing waterfalls, beautiful beaches, many stunning lakes and unique natural rock formations. If you are in Bangalore for two days, there are several fun things you can do to spend your time, and absorb the spirit of Bangalore at the same time: Day 1: - Guided tour of Bangalore Palace - Check out the Vidhana Soudha for a glimpse of Bangalore’s historical architecture - Take a walk at Cubbon Park - Visit Stipu Sultan’s Summer Palace - Dine at some of the best restaurants in Bangalore like Karavalli 

Day 2: - Pay a visit to the Bannerghatta National Park in the outskirts of the city - Pay your homage at the famous Nandi Temple - You can also visit the Lalbagh, which is one of the more famous parks in Bangalore - Make your way to Jayanagar, which is one of the best places to soak up the local culture - Experience the notorious Bangalore nightlife in places like Koramangala, M.G.Road and Indira Nagar

What are the best places to visit near Bangalore in August?

Which are the best beaches to visit near bangalore, which are the popular hill stations near bangalore, which is better coorg or ooty.

Coorg is comparatively a larger town in the Nilgiri district, than Ooty, and is a very popular tourist destination because of its peaceful hills and exceptional natural beauty. Even though Coorg is geographically bigger than Ooty, Ooty has always remained one of the most sought-after tourist destinations for hundreds of years. Both these hill stations are feasible for a relaxing vacation in the midst of nature.

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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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The 12 Best Hotels in San Diego

Choose from our list of editor-loved properties and T+L award winners.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Hotel Coronado

California’s second-largest city — and the eighth-largest in the country — San Diego is a sprawling metropolis with lodging options for every traveler. The urban center and its environs are home to wide-ranging accommodation options, from iconic hotels of historical and architectural significance to meandering beachside resort properties that beckon visitors with world-class golf and tennis.

Ready to plan your next getaway in sunny San Diego? Read on to discover the best hotels and resorts in the region, from beachy retreats to walkable city stays. A Southern California-based and -bred travel writer, I curated this list with expert recommendations from Travel + Leisure editors, contributors, and readers, along with winners from our World’s Best Awards and It List. (Bonus: almost all the hotels on our list are pet-friendly, too).

Kona Kai San Diego

Also available to book at Hotels.com

This intimate and unfussy hotel has a welcoming vibe, a private beach, and bikes for rent to explore the area.

Rooms may be noisy, and added costs (such as parking and a resort fee) can add up.

This pet-friendly contemporary hotel located at one end of Shelter Island has easy access to a non-swimming private beach for bean bag tossing, sandcastles, and nightly bonfires (ask for a s'mores kit at the front desk).

It features an adults-only pool and Zybra bikes (including helmets and locks) available to rent for two hours free of charge; the hotel is located in a super bike-friendly part of town, so it's a great way to explore. SpaTerre offers a unique alpha-quartz sand bed, plus a fitness center if you prefer to get your sweat on indoors. Kona Kai San Diego ranked in our World’s Best Awards in 2023.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Shelter Island
• Distance from Airport: 3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, USS Midway Museum, Liberty Public Market
• Accessibility: Accessible guest rooms and most property features
• Rates : Starting at $134
• Wi-Fi : Included in the $45 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $45 per night
• Pet Policy : Two dogs up to 65 pounds with a non-refundable pet charge of $100 for up to 3 nights or $150 up to 7 nights

Pendry San Diego

Pendry’s vibe and amenities are luxurious, stylish, and just plain cool, and its location can't be beat for access to Petco Park and the convention center.

Rates are steep, especially on peak dates, and extra fees like parking add up to a hefty folio.

This luxury hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter scored a place on our World’s Best Awards in 2023 and 2021. Situated just blocks away from the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, and a variety of restaurants and nightlife, the vibe here is cool and luxurious. There are 317 guest rooms including 36 suites, plus six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool with private cabanas, a fitness center, and the full-service Spa Pendry. Rooms start at 350 square feet, and feature top-end linens from Fili D'Oro and views of the bay and downtown.

• Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
• Distance from Airport: 3.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Petco Park, Maritime Museum, Balboa Park
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and suites
• Rates : From $334
• Parking : Yes (valet only), $60 per night
• Pet Policy : Two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $100 per stay

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

This iconic property is comprised of standalone casitas and has posh resort amenities including a high-end spa, tennis, and excellent golf access.

The location is serene and sprawling, but not walkable or convenient to sightseeing attractions. Plus a hefty daily resort fee of $60 adds to the overall cost.

This iconic Spanish Colonial Hacienda-inspired resort property in Rancho Santa Fe is long established and frequently awarded; it’s even ranked on our World’s Best Awards in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Here, there are 49 luxe guest casitas with their own patios and fireplaces, plus three opulent private residences, all situated across 45 acres of verdant gardens and citrus groves.

Highlights include the Spa at Rancho Valencia, tennis and pickleball courts, easy access to golf, an array of resort activities on the daily schedule, and The Pony Room restaurant showcasing fresh and sustainable coastal ranch fare with outdoor dining.

The Details: 

• Neighborhood: Rancho Santa Fe
• Distance from Airport: 18 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Farms golf course, Hiking trails, Del Mar Racetrack
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and public spaces
• Rates : From $524
• Parking : Yes, valet only, included
• Pet Policy : A $250 pet fee applies to all pet reservations

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

This hotel is historically significant and well-located near Little Italy and the Gaslamp District.

Rooms are on the smaller side without abundant storage space.

Downtown's century-old Armed Services Building houses this hotel, which blends historic and modern touches for a comfortable and well-located stay. Steps from Little Italy, the Bayfront, the USS Midway Museum, and near the Gaslamp District, the building features high ceilings, original tilework, and exposed brick walls with rooms that are sparse and chic. The Guild dishes up craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine. This hotel also featured on T+L’s World’s Best Awards in 2023.

• Neighborhood: Downtown San Diego
• Distance from Airport: 1.8 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Santa Fe Depot train station, Gaslamp Quarter
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates : From $135
• Parking : Yes, valet only, $56 per day
• Pet Policy : Pets permitted up to 40 pounds max per room (if you’re bringing more than one pet, that’s the combined total weight). A $250 cleaning fee applies to any rooms requiring extra pet cleanup at the end of the stay.

Park Hyatt Aviara

This property recently underwent a total overhaul; among the standout features are large, graciously appointed rooms and the Miraval Life in Balance Spa.

This family-friendly resort may not appeal as much to those traveling without kids who are seeking a serene stay.

Sprawling over 200 green acres along the sea and adjacent to the natural wetland preserve Batiquitos Lagoon, this wellness-driven property offers adults-only and family pools, excellent tennis facilities, and Southern California’s only coastal Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club.

The resort recently unveiled an updated look following a $60 million overhaul, in which it updated all of the public spaces and guest rooms and suites, and added new amenities such as a Topgolf Swing Suites and the recently debuted Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara.

• Neighborhood: Carlsbad
• Distance from Airport: 33 miles
• Nearby Attractions: State beaches, Legoland California, Museum of Making Music
• Rates : From $375
• Parking : Yes, $65 overnight or $55 day rate (valet only)
• Pet Policy : $150 per pet, per stay. Dogs may not exceed 50 pounds each or 75 pounds combined (up to two dogs per room).

The US Grant, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

The US Grant

This property dates back more than 100 years and radiates historic charm.

Although the rooms have been updated, they may feel dated, with underwhelming views from the windows.

This century-old property located downtown near the lively Gaslamp Quarter exudes historic significance and charm; opened in 1910, it has hosted its share of presidents and dignitaries. Its on-site restaurant, Grant Grill and Lounge, dates back to 1951, with fleur de lis banquettes and mahogany wood details in an Art Deco setting; the space also hosts live music. Rooms here are stately and opulent.

• Distance from Airport: 2 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Symphony, USS Midway Museum
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and features, including elevators
• Rates : From $303
• Parking: $60 per night (valet only)
• Pet Policy : $150 non-refundable pet fee required, maximum pet weight is 35 pounds.

Hotel Del Coronado

This sprawling resort with recognizable Victorian architecture is an icon with a storied history dating back to 1888.

The resort is currently undergoing renovations.

This iconic Victorian-style hotel, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has welcomed visitors for 135 years. The resort features five distinct neighborhoods; Beach Village and Shore House are the hottest places for a stay right now. On site are a full suite of amenities including a full-service spa, private pool cabanas, a retail collection, and an array of resort activities.

The property is currently undergoing a massive $550 million restoration — a comprehensive five-year project. Among the exciting new additions slated to emerge in 2025 include a Nobu restaurant and the overhauled Victorian building.

• Neighborhood: Coronado Island
• Distance from Airport: 3.7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, Glorietta Bay Marina
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and resort features
• Rates : From $314
• Wi-Fi : Included with $35 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $55 overnight for self-parking or $75 overnight for valet
• Pet Policy : Pets weighing up to 40 pounds with a maximum of 2 per guest room and a non-refundable pet charge of $125 per stay

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

This intimate property recently debuted a luxurious overhaul.

This property is 20 miles from the airport and generally not walkable to other attractions; it’s useful to have a car.

Set in Rancho Santa Fe in North County, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe debuted a total property overhaul across its 11 lush acres in November 2023. The reimagined inn offers 85 luxurious suites, bungalows, and residences, plus Lilian’s restaurant and Bing’s Bar.

In the first-ever hotel partnership from a celebrity-favorite spa owner and luxury skincare line founder, the property is also home to The Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn. Here, there’s also world-class golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities. Hollywood heavyweights known for stays here include Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mary Pickford.

• Neighborhood: North County
• Distance from Airport: 20 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, San Diego Botanic Garden, Del Mar Dog Beach
• Rates : From $481
• Parking : Yes, valet and self-parking available ($25)
• Pet Policy : Two dogs up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $125 per stay

La Valencia

You can’t beat this prime La Jolla location, walkable to beaches, shopping, and restaurants; it’s one of La Jolla’s only hotels located within walking distance to both the beach and downtown.

The room sizing can feel cramped, and noise can be an issue.

With a nearly century-long history, this recognizable hotel with a signature pink facade and Spanish-tiled tower, remains a landmark in La Jolla. Situated on distinctive Prospect Street, atop the bluffs with views of the ocean and La Jolla Cove, the location is prime for exploring beaches and local businesses. On site are the Mediterranean Room ocean-view restaurant as well as the La Sala Lounge and a Peloton-equipped fitness center.

• Neighborhood: La Jolla
• Distance from Airport: 9.3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Caves, village of La Jolla
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and property features
• Rates : From $242
• Wi-Fi : Included with $39 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, valet ($30 overnight or $18 for the day)
• Pet Policy : Maximum of two pets per room with a fee of $50 per pet

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

With a location ideally situated for visitors to the University of California, San Diego, this recently renovated property is verdant and peaceful.

While we love the mission-style architecture of the property, the room design is a bit underwhelming in comparison.

This La Jolla property recently completed a major renovation of its 210 guest rooms and suites, plus its multiple lawn spaces, and added a new apiary and chef’s garden. The sprawling property includes 10 acres of gardens, stone pathways, serene courtyards, and fountains. The hotel also features a full-service spa, a large pool deck and cabanas, wellness programs which include outdoor yoga and barre classes, and three on-site dining destinations.

• Distance from Airport: 11 miles
• Nearby Attractions: UC San Diego, Black’s Beach, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines State Reserve, Salk Institute
• Rates : From $257
• Parking : Yes, valet parking is available for $48 per night and self-parking at $40 per night for overnight guests
• Pet Policy : Any size or breed is welcome, $150 non-refundable pet fee required at check-in

Alila Marea Beach Resort

Alila Marea

Most rooms in this tranquil oceanfront property feature views of the Pacific.

The hefty $55 resort fee does not include parking.

This beachfront resort in the World of Hyatt portfolio has 130 guest rooms — and most of them feature Pacific Ocean views. The resort fee covers a range of properly appealing inclusions, such as transportation within a 3-mile radius, a daily yoga class, and rentals of e-bikes, surfboards, and wetsuits. First-floor fire pit rooms feature spacious patios with cozy seating for all-season enjoyment.

• Neighborhood: Encinitas
• Distance from Airport: 25 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Ponto Beach, Encinitas Town, San Diego Botanic Garden
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and most hotel features
• Rates : From $497
• Wi-Fi : Included with the $55 daily resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $60 per night (valet only)
• Pet Policy : No pets permitted.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Cory Bjork / The Lodge at Torrey Pines

This charming property offers excellent access to golf, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Some visitors noted aging finishes and rooms in need of updates.

Set atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, The Lodge offers views of the ocean as well as the Torrey Pines Golf Course. With its post-and-beam construction, The Lodge is modeled after Pasadena’s Gamble and Blacker houses, exemplary of early-1900s Craftsman architecture.

Here there are 170 guest rooms and suites, as well as the 9,500-square-foot Spa at Torrey Pines. There’s also a croquet lawn, heated outdoor pool and cabanas, whirlpool, and terrace with chaises, plus access to hiking at the state reserve and golf at the iconic 36-hole course that hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.

• Distance from Airport: 15 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, Scripps Aquarium, La Jolla Playhouse, Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Rates : From $422
• Parking : Yes, self-parking ($55 per day) or 24-hour valet service ($65 per day)
• Pet Policy : One dog weighing 50 pounds or less, or two smaller dogs (with a combined weight of 75 pounds or less) are permitted; a non-refundable room cleaning fee of $150 on the day of check-in is required.

Know Before You Go

Don’t expect beach weather year-round.

While San Diego is much warmer than most of the country during the winter months, it still may not be warm enough for lounging at the beach — think daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit — so plan for some non-beach activities if you’re traveling in cooler months. That said, even January surprises with the occasional beach day. Layers are always a good idea.

Consider renting a car

While the downtown area is very walkable, San Diego is a sprawling and spread-out city where many residents rely on cars. If you’re looking to go hiking or explore other parts of the county, you may want to have your own car for easier access. Do expect traffic, and build it into your timeline planning.

What’s the best way to get to San Diego?

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located near the city’s downtown, and its manageable scale makes arriving and departing relatively sane. If you’re coming from elsewhere in California, Amtrak’s Surfliner is one of the country’s most scenic routes. It travels over 350 miles along the coast between San Luis Obispo to the north and San Diego to the south. If you’re arriving by car, the major freeways into the city include the 5, 8, and 15.

How We Chose These Hotels

Alesandra Dubin is a travel and lifestyle journalist currently based in and also raised in Southern California. The hotels on this list were chosen based on her expertise and research as well as the firsthand accounts of Travel + Leisure editors and other contributors. Many of these hotels have also been voted into their respective categories in the World’s Best Awards by T+L readers. All of our hotel recommendations also align with our T+L Hotel Values .

Follow Polygon online:

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9 things to know before starting Manor Lords

How to get started with this complex city builder

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Manor Lords is complex, fidgety, and more than a little impenetrable. There’s a lot that will be familiar about it if you’re a veteran of city-building games, but Manor Lords has it’s own idiosyncracies even with those. And that makes tips and tricks less important than just general advice and quick explanations of those quirks, so that’s what we’ll focus on for this beginner’s guide.

Below, we’ve got nine things to know before you get started playing Manor Lords with advice on things like building your town, how labor works in the game, keeping your town fed, and managing your resources. If you’re looking for more detailed explainers, we’ve got separate guides for growing your town , increasing Regional Wealth , and setting up your first farm .

Expect more construction than combat

Like the dev said on Steam , Manor Lords is “a citybuilder with battles,” not a grand army simulator. It’s a city and resource management game first. With peaceful settings, it can even be downright cozy.

Don’t make combat your focus going in — and, for that matter, don’t expect combat to be a focus at all, really. Even with aggressive opponents — bandits and other lords — battles are pretty rare. Building up an army means building up a lot of infrastructure — mines, bloomeries, blacksmiths, logging camps, joiners, and more — before anyone even picks up a weapon.

Manor Lords is one of the more infrastructure-intensive city builders out there. For example, let’s say you want to start producing yarn — not even clothes, just yarn. You’ll need a livestock trader, a sheep farm, and a weaver’s workshop at a minimum. But each part of that process requires a family to be assigned to the building(s), and families require burgage plots to live on. That’s a bare minimum of four buildings already, and that doesn’t even touch on keeping the town supplied with food and fuel — which increases the number of buildings you’ll need in place before you can get a single sheep much closer to eight or 10.

That sort of infrastructure interdependency and complexity holds true throughout Manor Lords . Getting a town humming along smoothly takes a lot of planning (and trial and error) to make sure you’ve got everything you need in place.

All of that planning and infrastructure starts with burgage plots

Burgage plots are the basic unit of your town

Think of burgage plots as mixed-used zoning where your town’s families will build houses and workshops. Depending on the size and shape of the burgage plot, there might be room for additional housing (adding a house for a second family to the plot) or an extension (for a garden or a workshop).

Burgage plot extensions are a weird aspect of Manor Lords because they mix together housing and industry. But that industry is often vital to your town. Early on, burgage plots can grow vegetables and collect eggs from backyard chickens. Later, upgraded and extended burgage plots that you turn into workshops are how you’ll make everything from ale to weapons.

There are still single-use buildings you’ll have to build — things like logging camps and sawpits, sheep farms and weaver’s workshops, barley farms and malthouses — but the final step in the supply chain is usually built at a burgage plot.

Those standalone buildings all have to be run by a family that lives in your town because…

Families are the work units in Manor Lords

You don’t have any control over individual people in Manor Lords . Instead, you’ll assign families to buildings and, by extension, assign them to jobs. Think of it like the way surnames and bynames evolved in late Medieval western Europe — people working in a bakery took the last name Baker, sheep herders took the last name Shepherd, etc.

By default (while they’re unassigned), families in Manor Lords do, basically, whatever the town needs. Usually, this is construction — any buildings or upgrades you have happening — or escorting the town’s oxen around to haul timber (usually for construction). They also seem to (but don’t quote me on this — those little people are hard to follow around) pitch in by moving goods to the granary, storehouse, and marketplace.

Once you have a building built, you have to hit the plus button to assign a family to work there. This takes one of the unassigned families and makes them dedicated to working at that building. They still tend the garden or livestock on their burgage plots and, more importantly, if you pause or remove the assignment from the building, they’ll go back to the unassigned pool.

Speaking of tending gardens…

Vegetable gardens are more important than farms

Farms and farmland are a thing you’ll deal with in Manor Lords as your town grows. But, especially starting out, they’re not as important as you might expect. They’re a lot of work for not a lot of reward. And, on top of that, farms require even more infrastructure.

Instead, it’s better to just build the vegetable garden extension onto a burgage plot. For example, if you give your first couple burgage plots huge backyards, you can build two vegetable gardens that will grow enough for an entire game — we have one town with a population of over 200 people that still get their vegetables from those first two vegetable gardens.

Gardens and the other burgage plot extensions cost Regional Wealth to build. And Regional Wealth is a little confusing.

Burgage plots and Regional Wealth are related

Regional Wealth is basically how much cash your town’s families have on hand. Regional Wealth is where the town’s taxes come from. It’s also what your town will use to import goods. Confusingly, it doesn’t have anything to do with your town’s marketplace . Instead, as the name implies, it’s about wealth instead of just money and that wealth comes from either exporting surplus goods or just from upgrading burgage plots.

Upgrading your burgage plots is also how you’ll advance in the game. But upgrading comes with new requirements, so…

Expanding too fast will make villagers unhappy

Development points are a reward you’ll get as your town reaches certain milestones — building five burgage plots, upgrading two of those five to Level 2 burgage plots, and so on. Upgrading burgage plots gives you access to more and better extensions (like backyard workshops — see above), but they also increase the requirements for those plots. For example, you’ll need access to two kinds of food to upgrade a plot from Level 1 to Level 2. We’ve got a whole guide to upgrading your town that walks you through the first few settlement levels.

Once you do start upgrading burgage plots, though, the families on that plot will expect two kinds of food to be available from then on. And if your town can’t supply that, they’ll start to get unhappy, which lowers your approval and slows down your town’s growth as well as makes your militias lose morale.

Keeping your town supplied is as much a exercise in building up a surplus as it is in laying out your town carefully — we’ve got a guide to how marketplaces distribute goods here.

Try to limit yourself to only building as many burgage plots as you need for the next upgrade and development point instead of just expanding your town to get more and more families moved in. Sometimes, this will mean assigning and unassigning families over the course of a year. Which is possible because…

Everything is seasonal

A year in Manor Lords is divided into the typical four seasons — spring (March through May), summer (June through August), autumn (September through November), and winter (December through February). Things happen in the world depending on the season — for example: you can’t gather berries during winter, crops grow during spring and summer and then are harvested (and replanted) in autumn, and your sheep farms don’t produce wool in the winter (the sheep would get cold). The winter’s temperature also means that all of your burgage plots and families consume twice as much fuel to keep warm.

That ebb and flow of resources is how you can get away with having fewer families than available job assignments. You can have a family work on a farm during the autumn, and then swap them to a forager’s hut come spring while the crops grow. Or you can move a family back and forth between a clay mining pit and the clay furnace that turns that clay into rooftiles.

You also have a couple ways to manage renewable resources, like…

Forester’s huts offset logging camps

Logging for timber is a pretty destructive process and you’re going to run out of easily accessible trees pretty quickly. You can move a logging camp for free, but even then you’ll still run out of trees eventually. If you build a forester’s hut (2 timber), though, a family assigned there will plant trees. Those trees take a while to grow — they’re trees, after all — but pairing a forester’s hut with a logging camp can actually provide a steady (if slow) and renewable supply of timber.

You can even switch a single family back and forth between the two jobs if you need to — have them grow trees for a couple years, and then spend the next year cutting them down.

You keep your families healthy by upgrading forager huts

One final upgrade that’s a bit harder to notice is the add a herb garden (25 Regional Wealth, 2 planks) for a forager hut. There’s a mechanic happening in the background where your townsfolk can get sick — all you might see about this is a quick notification. This is probably going to become more obvious and visible as the game continues through its early access.

Sick villagers are less efficient at work, and the way to heal them back up is with herbs . Those herbs come from the garden upgrade to a forager’s shack. Once they’re gathered, they’re stored in the granary and distributed at a marketplace.

• Beginner’s guide
• Burgage Plots
• How to farm
• Marketplaces
• Regional wealth
• Your first town

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Your guide to 2024 NFL draft in Detroit: Registration, map, parking, things to do and more

Are you going to the 2024 nfl draft on april 25-27 in downtown detroit here's everything to know, including registration, parking, transportation, draft parties and things to do in detroit..

The NFL world descends up Detroit this week , just months after the Detroit Lions earned their first playoff wins in decades and made an incredible run to the NFC championship game.

The 2024 NFL draft is in downtown Detroit this Thursday through Saturday . Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to be there, with fans of all 32 teams looking to celebrate their teams' draft picks near the stage at Campus Martius and checking out the NFL Fan Experience at Hart Plaza.

If you're traveling to Detroit for the draft , here's a guide to make your draft experience easy and unforgettable. Information on registration, parking, travel, street closings, and draft day activities are all below.

When is the 2024 NFL draft?

The 2024 NFL draft is April 25-27 . The rounds break down as follows:

• 8 p.m. Thursday, April 25: Round 1
• 7 p.m. Friday, April 26: Rounds 2-3
• 12 p.m. Saturday, April 27: Rounds 4-7

Where is the 2024 NFL draft?

The 2024 NFL draft is in Detroit , spanning from Campus Martius to Hart Plaza in downtown with additional events in Beacon Park, Capitol Park, Grand Circus Park, Harmonie Park, and along Woodward Avenue. Here's how Detroit got the NFL draft .

2024 NFL draft registration, tickets, sign-up

The 2024 NFL draft is free to attend and open to the public. If you're planning to attend, though, you will need to register using the NFL OnePass app or online through the website .

Registering for the event only guarantees you the NFL draft footprint in downtown Detroit. You must buy tickets separately for the actual draft theater.

Ticket packages are available for purchase for the second and third rounds starting at $950 per person — the fourth through seventh rounds start at $550 per person as well. Please be wary of potential ticket scams .

• More on NFL OnePass: How to download the app, what it will tell you

2024 NFL draft map

Downtown detroit transportation.

Detroit has multiple public transportation options to get around downtown. The city has a streetcar , an elevated rail system , bike share , and bus system to get you where you need to go.

These include:

• The   Detroit People Mover , which will operate 24 hours a day from 7 a.m. April 25 through midnight April 28.
• The  QLINE   along Woodward Avenue, which will run from 8 a.m. to midnight April 25 through April 27. The stops include Harper Ave., 116 Lothrop St., 6540 Cass Ave., John R & Piquette and 6230 John R St.  
• Bus service: SMART will have park-and-ride services from various points in metro Detroit, including Great Lakes Crossing, several Meijer store locations and Oakland County Community College. It also has its FAST service on Gratiot, Woodward and Michigan Avenue. DDOT services will operate with modified downtown routes because of road closures.
• Shuttles and drop-offs: There will be designated shuttle and ride-share drop-off points throughout downtown on Woodward, Jefferson and Fort Street. Detroit Air Xpress, or DAX, is a nonstop coach bus service connecting downtown Detroit to Detroit Metro Airport, and  D2A2  is an express coach bus that connects downtown Detroit to downtown Ann Arbor.

Fan shuttle locations:

• Bagley Mobility Hub , 1501 Wabash St.  
• River East Garage , 214 Rivard St.  

Hours: 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday

• More: Service details released about Detroit public transit options

Detroit parking for 2024 NFL draft

If you decide to drive  downtown , make a plan and prearrange parking . Many off-street lots and garages are booked, and street parking will be limited or restricted in the area. Parking regulations will be enforced; vehicles may be towed. Those planning to park downtown are encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. You may find off-street parking options on the Park Detroit app or on Park Whiz.

You can pay for metered parking through Park Detroit's website or app. There are also options for private parking throughout the city.

2024 NFL draft parking: 2024 NFL draft parking: You better have a plan if you're coming to downtown Detroit

Detroit road closures for 2024 NFL draft

The City of Detroit is conducting six phases of road closures leading up the 2024 NFL draft and during it. It started March 29 and will go through May 7. Be mindful of these closures as you're driving downtown.

Here's a detailed look at each phase of road closures in downtown Detroit.

Security, bag policy at the 2024 NFL draft

Detroit police say they've got a safety plan in place that includes increased police presence downtown, weapon detectors and video monitoring .

Detroit police have partnered with the NFL and local businesses on the security plan, as well as state and federal law enforcement, according to 3rd Precinct Cmdr. Matthew Fulgenzi.

The NFL will have weapon detectors installed that attendees must walk through at the gates of the event, which will take place at Cadillac Square, Campus Martius, Hart Plaza and a portion of Woodward Avenue. The NFL has a clear bag policy to enter the draft area, Fulgenzi said. 

Here's more on security measures and policies at the 2024 NFL draft in Detroit.

2024 NFL draft schedule of events, parties

2024 NFL draft day activities are from noon to 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday, events go from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Use the NFL OnePass app to find more on what's planned and when throughout the NFL draft blueprint.

Activities include a Pro Football Hall of Fame exhibit and an autograph signing opportunity with current and former NFL players, as well as a 40-yard dash, vertical jump, deep throw accuracy challenges, and more. There will also be a collection of Detroit-based food trucks for participants who attend.

Here are more ideas on what to do at the 2024 NFL draft:

• NFL draft parties: District Detroit, Greektown, hotels, restaurants and more
• At Ford Field: Lions to host NFL draft event for season ticket holders
• NFL Shop: Where to find the NFL's pop-up store in downtown Detroit
• Art and murals: Detroit's DCLEATED exhibit across town … plus 8 downtown murals to see
• Roller skating and games: Next Level by RollerCade set to open right near the draft
• Check out the lights: Detroit's People Mover will light up for the draft

Things to do in Detroit during the 2024 NFL draft

Detroit is a city rich with museums, restaurants and activities throughout. If you're interested in exploring the area outside of the draft, you can go to the Motown Museum, the Michigan Science Center, check out golf-rich southeast Michigan , and even catch a Detroit Tigers game on April 26, 27 or 28 when they host the Kansas City Royals. And get a souvenir while you're in the city.

Looking for ideas? Check out these guides we put together for you:

• Where to eat: Your guide to breakfast, lunch and dinner in Detroit
• Where to shop: 7 places to get Detroit souvenirs , plus Somerset Collection and Born In Detroit pop-ups
• Where to see concerts: Big Sean, Detroit Youth Choir lead list of performers
• Where to golf: The top 10 golf courses to play near downtown Detroit
• Where to take your kids: Top kid-friendly events to check out at the NFL draft
• Where to take photos: Iconic Detroit places where you can snap photos while you're here
• Must-see attractions: Where to go in Detroit while you're here

What else is Detroit doing for the NFL draft?

Here's a list of other attractions and events planned for Detroit and the 2024 NFL draft:

• The Detroit "Hollywood-style" sign is constructed along eastbound Interstate 94. Here's how to scope it out .
• Plus, there are five "Welcome to Detroit" signs going up on other stretches of highways.
• Country star Jelly Roll is planning an intimate "Night Before" concert at Fillmore Detroit on April 24.
• Detroit City Distillery has several NFL draft events planned .
• Circuit Court at Detroit city hall will suspend in-person services during NFL draft week.

Download the NFL OnePass app to stay up to date on what's happening during the draft.

Follow the Detroit Free Press on Instagram ( @detroitfreepress ), TikTok ( @detroitfreepress ), YouTube ( @DetroitFreePress ), Twitter/X ( @freep ),   and  LinkedIn , and like us on Facebook ( @detroitfreepress ).

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Best places to visit in ohio.

Ohio is home to a wide range of attractions, from sprawling parks with stunning waterfalls to the Lake Erie shoreline to bustling cities and college towns. To help you decide where to go during your next trip to the Buckeye State, U.S. News took into account its diversity of attractions, affordability and outdoor offerings (as well as user input) to determine the best places to visit in Ohio. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Hocking Hills State Park

Cuyahoga valley national park, columbus, oh, port clinton.

With its stunning caves and breathtaking waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio is one of the state's most beautiful destinations for a romantic getaway or a family outing. Inside the park, you'll discover miles of hiking trails, including the Ash Cave Gorge and Ash Cave Rim trails, which lead to Ash Cave (the largest recess cave in Ohio). You can also follow the 6-mile-long Grandma Gatewood Trail from the welcome center to Old Man's Cave (one of Hocking Hills' most popular areas) before continuing on to Cedar Falls, where you'll find the park's largest waterfall by volume.

Head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park to enjoy a relaxing outdoor escape away from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities like Cleveland and Akron. During the warmer months, this national park offers 125 miles of hiking trails, as well as ample biking, fishing and kayaking opportunities, as well as fun kid-friendly activities, such as junior ranger programs and seasonal train rides. Plus, Cuyahoga Valley turns into a winter wonderland during the cooler months, drawing winter sports enthusiasts interested in spending their vacation snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or sledding.

Renowned author Charles Dickens once called Cincinnati "one of the most interesting [cities] in America," and after visiting, you'll have to agree. The riverfront city is home to several neighborhoods, each with their own distinct flair. Eden Park (a popular green space with 186 acres) is just outside of the picturesque Mount Adams neighborhood, while the historic Over-The-Rhine district is where you'll find Findlay Market, Music Hall and some of the city's best shops, bars and restaurants. While here, be sure to try some of Cincinnati's famous five-way chili.

Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a sports fanatic, a foodie or a combination of them all, Cleveland will appeal to you. The city's 18 parks offer everything from hiking trails to golf courses to a zoo, while Progressive Field is where you can watch the Cleveland Guardians play baseball. Other Cleveland must-dos include viewing the Cleveland Museum of Art's 61,000-plus works and learning more about music legends at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Don't leave without grabbing a bite to eat at the West Side Market.

Put-in-Bay, which sits less than 23 miles northwest of Sandusky and is accessible via ferry, is one of Ohio's most-visited Lake Erie islands. On Put-in-Bay, which is part of South Bass Island, visitors can take Island Transportation's Tour Train to get an overview of the island or explore attractions like Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center on their own. Those traveling with kids will also want to check out Perry's Cave Family Fun Center, which features a butterfly house, a miniature golf course, a rock climbing wall and a giant maze, among other amenities.

Ohio's capital city has no shortage of things to do. Active travelers will appreciate the miles of walking, jogging and bike trails available at the Scioto Mile. Nature lovers can spend a few hours exploring Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Architecture buffs can admire the charming buildings that comprise the historic German Village neighborhood (don't miss The Book Loft, one of the country's largest independent bookstores). Foodies won't want to miss dining at North Market, and art enthusiasts can visit galleries in the Short North Arts District.

The Maumee River meets Lake Erie in this northwestern Ohio city, so visitors can take to the water on The Sandpiper boat for a picnic lunch or sunset cruise or head to Maumee Bay State Park for its sandy beaches, trails and wetlands. Beyond its waterways, Toledo features engaging attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art, which is free to visit and holds 30,000-plus pieces, and the family-friendly Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Meanwhile, must-try food experiences include biting into a Hungarian hot dog from Tony Packo's and sipping local brews along the 419 Ale Trail.

Dayton is the birthplace of aviation, so it's hardly surprising that many of its main attractions focus on flying and the history behind it. At Wright Brothers Hill and the John W. Berry, Sr. Wright Brothers National Museum, visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of the innovative pilots and learn more about the first practical aircraft they created. Travelers will also want to check out Dayton's National Museum of the United States Air Force – the world's largest and oldest museum dedicated to military aviation history – and the National Aviation Hall of Fame for more aviation background.

Located along the banks of Lake Erie, Sandusky beckons to water lovers and thrill-seekers. In addition to boasting proximity to waterfront trails and beaches, the town is home to Cedar Point, an amusement park that features some of the world's tallest and fastest roller coasters. The attraction also offers rides designed for little ones, plus a sports center and a water park . Outside of Cedar Point, travelers will find additional family-friendly facilities, including the Merry-Go-Round Museum and Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Sandusky, the largest indoor water park in the state.

Water activities abound in this lakeside town, which sits roughly 40 miles southeast of Toledo. Port Clinton is known for its fishing, so anglers can set their lines to catch walleye. Meanwhile, recreation seekers can launch kayaks and canoes in Catawba Island State Park or take a ferry to the surrounding islands and Cedar Point amusement park. For those who like a bit more bustle on their vacation, Port Clinton always seems to have something going on, from various festivals and concerts throughout the summer to the Walleye Drop on New Year's Eve, a longtime local tradition.

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Marietta, OH

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