Vegas Day Trip, Destination: Chocolate, Cacti, Engineering, and Art.

Las Vegas is a hub of activity, a hub where interstates and highways wind through a neon oasis, leading south to Arizona's picturesque scenery, west toward the tans and sand of Los Angeles and southern California, and east to the landscapes of Utah. Heading north, you can drive for miles through changing landscapes, arriving at both national forests and national parks.

The strip of Las Vegas is a larger than life adult playground, where fortunes are made and lost in a single night, and so are many marriages. If you have been living here for a while, you may tire of the glitz and games of the strip, and be looking for a different sort of entertainment. Even if you love the atmosphere of the city, traveling the areas around Vegas is a grand adventure. Sometimes, the best way to plan a trip outside of Vegas is pick a direction, a road, and start driving. There are unique attractions in every direction around Vegas.

A day trip favorite for chocolate, cactus and history lovers lies to the southeast. Start out on I-15 S and take I-215E to Henderson, Nevada. Take the Airport Exit to Sunset and you will find the Ethel M. Chocolate Factory at the corner of the Green Valley Business Park. The factory is open 7 days a week and has self-guided tours. The chocolate making machinery does not run every day, but every day chocolate is available to sample and buy. It is yummy, gourmet chocolate, and makes a good dessert after lunch. When you leave the factory, don't get into your car just yet! Adjacent is the Ethel M. Botanical Cactus Garden, the largest cactus garden in the States, and a mecca for photographers. During the holidays, the cacti are strung with lights, a touch of kitschy desert charm you really won't find anywhere but near Vegas. This garden is a testament to beauty that can exist in the harshest of climates, and may inspire you to cultivate some prickly plants of your own. If you haven't filled up on chocolate and want something more substantial, there are restaurants nearby, offering a solid array of choices for any taste.

When you get back in your car, take Sunset Way to the right, and turn left on W. Sunset Road, and merge onto US-93S. Follow the signs to Hoover Dam, which is an easy 25 mile drive. Hoover Dam is an American history buffs dream, as well as a breathtaking marvel of engineering. It may seem silly to someone who has never been there to say that this dam is aweinspiring, but it truly is. It is one of the world's largest dams, and the sheer amount of concrete, generators and steel it contains can make you proud to be human. We created this dam, and created a lake right in the middle of a barren desert. It is terraforming at its finest. The dam is also a destination for art-lovers, with its unique designs on the towers, spillways and power plants. Some people say they have seen these designs in their dreams for years after visiting the dam. The designs are based on traditional art of the Native American tribes in the area, mainly the Navajo and Pueblo tribes, and the warm colors reflect the landscape of the southern American deserts. Over 100 people involved with the Hoover Dam project died during it's completion, and the some of the art that decorates the dam honors the dead.

The Hoover dam has an excellent 30 minute tour, that is only $9.00 if you are over 62. It is worth taking, as there are parts of the dam that you can only visit on the tour. This is a self-guided tour, and 30 minutes is low estimate of the amount of time it could take. If you really stop to read and absorb everything, you can easily spend a few hours in the Hoover dam. There is also an hourlong guided tour that is $30.00, which allows visitors to see even more of the dam. Be aware this guided tour requires about a mile and half of walking, so wear sturdy shoes and take this into consideration.

Now that you are at the dam, I am sure you have noticed the large reservoir created by its construction. This is Lake Mead, the real oasis in this desert. It is 112 miles long and supplies much of the water for this area of the southeast. Lake Mead is a hotspot for boat lovers, and you can usually watch boaters, or even rent a boat year round with a boating license. The waters are calm and even inexperienced boaters can navigate the waters of Lake Mead with ease. There are a few different companies here that offer boat rental. They have very similar prices, and most of the employees are happy to answer questions and give advice about boating on Lake Mead. The people that run these small boat rental companies have been in the area for years, and if they like you, they will give you hints on the best direction to head this time of year, hidden treasures and alcoves to look for along the way, and the best fishing spots.

Even if you don't plan to boat or fish, and you may not if you have stopped and eaten a ton of free chocolate, viewed the largest cactus garden in the southwest, toured the most famous dam in the world and learned about a vital part of our nation's history, it is still worth walking along the shores of Lake Mead and seeing the sunset. This is the perfect nightcap to end a wonderful day, romantic and peaceful. Drop into the Boat House Restaurant at the Lake Mead Marina for fresh seafood before your short drive back to Vegas, and discuss your fun day in a relaxed atmosphere. The drive back is easy and takes approximately 30 minutes. You are sure to sleep well after such a full and fun day!

13 Things You Should Not Miss in New York

New York is not called the city that never sleeps for nothing. Whatever the time of the day, there is something to do on every street corner of this incredible city. With thousands of towering skyscrapers, vast parks, picturesque neighborhoods, and countless museums, you will not run out of things to do in New York.

Without a doubt, NYC is one of the most bucket list-worthy places to go to. However, it can be quite overwhelming to choose which activities to do in a city that is brimming with possibilities. You can spend your whole life in New York and have a different adventure each day. To help make your NYC trip easier, you will find the ultimate list of things to do in the Big Apple here.

Go to the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic structures in New York. It was built in 1883 and soars more than 1,500 feet across the East River. This bridge connects Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan and is the world's longest suspension bridge.

Watch a Broadway Show

New York has a booming theater scene. Near Times Square, you can see thousands of tourists flocking to watch some of the best Broadway shows. Just make sure to buy tickets in advance.

Visit the Met Museum

New York is home to several world-class museums. If you want to witness some of the finest art pieces across the globe, head over to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, here, you can immerse yourself in over 5,000 years of history that ranges from contemporary art to ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Visit Times Square

If you want to be part of the beautiful chaos of New York, visit Times Square. As you gaze on its giant billboards, which are larger than the average apartments in New York, and neon lights at night, you can feel the energy of the city. As a first timer to New York, a visit to Times Square is a must.

Go to the Empire State Buildin

New York's skyline is unlike any other view you will see in the world. A visit to the Empire State Building will give you an astounding view of the city. The Empire State Building is one of the most photographed buildings in the world. If you visit its observatory early in the morning, you even the see the sunrise. Just buy tickets early because this experience is limited to 100 people every morning.

Discover Brooklyn

If you love streets beaming with life, you will absolutely enjoy Brooklyn. If you make it up to the Bushwick neighborhood, you can see thousands of graffiti murals that stretch around the area's walls. Additionally, this part of New York has thousands of must-visit cafes and restaurants.

Go to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

If you want to have a lasting experience when visiting New York, make sure not to miss Ground Zero. The 9/11 museum will give you a new perspective on the tragedy. To have the full experience, rent the audio guide narrated by Robert DeNiro.

Additionally, make time to see the Oculus - a train station that replaced the previous version destroyed during the terrorist attack. This amazing structure made from steel and glass looks like a dove taking flight - a real architectural wonder.

Explore Central Park

Known as one of the most popular green spaces in America, Central Park is pretty hard to miss given its gargantuan size of approximately 422 football pitches. It even has space for theater, open-air concerts, and even picnics. Without a doubt, visiting Central Park is one of the most memorable things you can do in the city.

Eat Pizza

Italy is not the only mecca for pizza-lovers. New York pizza is one of the most sumptuous foods you can try in the city. If you want a taste of authentic pizza, visit Patsy's. The pizzeria has been making pizza since the 1930s and its recipe has been passed down through generations.

Governor's Island

If you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of New York, Governor's Island is the place to be. Situated near lower Manhattan, this small island has tons of parks, art exhibitions, and bike trails. Furthermore, there are festivals held on the island every summer.

Watch the Sunset in West Street Highway

New York is one of the most incredible cities to watch the sunset. The 9A West Street Highway is a favorite spot among locals. Here, you can watch the sun go down on the Hudson River Greenway. You can even organize a picnic with your friends as you watch the magnificent view.

Visit Grand Central Station

You may have already seen Grand Central Station in your favorite movie. However, seeing it in person is even better than seeing it on screen. This train station is filled with architectural wonders such as giant shimmering gold chandeliers and bare light bulbs.

Visit New York

The Big Apple is one of the leading places for fashion, art, food, and Broadway. Although it does not boast pristine beaches like the Bahamas, or ancient ruins such as Greece, it is beautiful in its own way. Truly, New York is a city you should visit at least once in your life. Make your adventure in this beautiful concrete jungle count by not missing out on the activities listed above.

10 Romantic Cities in the United States

Filled with vibrant energy and endless attractions, cities make great destinations for romantic getaways. If you're considering an urban adventure with that special someone, plan a trip to one of the following ten cities. Each of them offers a uniquely romantic atmosphere and plenty of date-worthy activities.

---

1. New Orleans

From the quaint, old-world ambiance of the French Quarter to the joyful festivities of Mardi Gras, New Orleans overflows with romantic joie de vivre. To begin your romantic getaway in the Big Easy, take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, or go on a carriage tour through the city's historic neighborhoods. When you're ready to refuel, dine on traditional New Orleans treats such as pralines and jambalaya. Finish the evening by unwinding at an intimate jazz club.

---

2. Las Vegas

If you favor the kitschy over the quaint, Las Vegas is the perfect romantic vacation destination. Vegas is justly famous for spur-of-the-moment weddings and budget honeymoons, but you don't have to be tying the knot there to partake of its romantic offerings. Not only are there hotels to fit every taste and budget, but there are also limitless entertainment options, from Elvis impersonators to world-famous performers, so you'll never have a boring date night. Some Las Vegas hotels are even casino-free, so you can still enjoy the excitement of Las Vegas without listening to clanging slot machines.

---

3. San Antonio

The Riverwalk, a verdant, 15-mile collection of pedestrian pathways winding along the San Antonio River through the heart of the city, seems tailor-made for romantic strolls. When you get hungry, stop for a meal at a sidewalk cafe, perhaps sampling the city's renowned Tex-Mex cuisine, or enjoy a mellow dinner on the water, on a riverboat tour.

Time your visit to San Antonio to take in one of the city's annual festivals, many of which celebrate the region's colorful Latino heritage. Soak up San Antonio's historic atmosphere at the Alamo or at the Missions National Historic Park, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

4. Charleston

With cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions and a good helping of Southern charm, South Carolina's oldest city makes a romantic and genteel getaway. To best experience the romance of Charleston, stay at an inn located in one of the city's refurbished mansions and then dig into some rich and delectable Southern cuisine at an elegant restaurant or casual soul food cafe. Dive into the area's fascinating and often complicated history with a visit to an old plantation or Fort Sumter National Monument, where the Civil War began.

---

5. Boulder

If you and your partner can't decide on an outdoor adventure or an urban getaway, consider coming to Boulder, where you won't have to compromise. Laid-back Boulder is a gateway to outdoor activities, with easy access to hiking trails and ski slopes, but it also features urban delights such as restaurants to satisfy every palette, live-music venues, and a range of shopping options from funky to upscale. Strolling along the Pearl Street Mall, Boulder's pedestrian-only street is a pleasant way to pass a summer afternoon. As the home of the University of Colorado, Boulder enjoys a lively student population and many cultural events.

---

6. San Francisco

Spread out among steep hills between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean, the city of San Francisco blends a quirky counter-cultural sensibility with world-class attractions in a stunning setting. As an introduction to the city, catch a cable car ride past brightly painted Victorian townhouses. Take in the vibrant hustle of Chinatown, which makes a good stop for lunch, or eat a bowl of the city's famous clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf. Climb up to Coit Tower to enjoy sunset views of the city.

7. San Diego

Year-round pleasant weather and great beaches make San Diego the perfect destination for a romantic beach vacation. Plus, with 70 miles of coastline, San Diego offers a variety of beaches to suit your interests, from the lively party atmosphere of Pacific Beach to windswept San Onofre, which is popular with surfers. Stay in picturesque La Jolla, with its plethora of restaurants and boutique hotels, many of which are right on the ocean. Or, to experience a vintage piece of California history, check in at the stately Victorian-era Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark.

---

8. Providence

Rhode Island's capital is a small city, with a population of around 180,000, but it packs in a lot of culture, as the home of the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University. Providence is an excellent place to explore on foot, with historic architecture and distinct neighborhoods, each with their own unique atmosphere.

For a peaceful escape, visit Roger Williams Park, which contains picturesque bridges, lakes and a rose garden. Providence enjoys a rich mix of festivals, nightlife and performing arts events throughout the year, and it's also regularly ranked as one of the most gay-friendly cities in the United States.

9. Santa Fe

The adobe buildings in this high-desert city in New Mexico blend with the colors of the earth, giving the "City Different" a dreamy and organic feeling. The oldest capital city in the United States, Santa Fe offers plenty of attractions for history lovers, but its status as an art mecca is what draws many visitors.

Peruse the outdoor sculpture galleries of Canyon Road, or check out one of Santa Fe's top-notch museums. In the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains outside of the city, nature lovers will find hiking and skiing opportunities. On chilly nights, curl up with your partner next to a traditional "kiva" fireplace, found in many of Santa Fe's lodgings.

10. New York City

The bustling energy of America's largest city can be exhilarating, as can the thrill of seeing many of the country's most iconic sights, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, up close. To experience a slice of New York life, immerse yourself in the chaos by joining the jostling masses on the sidewalk. Chill out with a walk through Central Park, where in the winter, the ice skating rink offers an affordable and scenic location for a date, surrounded by the soaring city skyline.

Enjoy the view from a penthouse restaurant, or hit the clubs to party until dawn in the so-called "city that never sleeps." From the nightlife of New York City to the laid-back beaches of San Diego, these cities offer many opportunities for fun and adventure. Book a weekend getaway to one of these cities, or visit a few of them on your next road trip.

20 US Backpacking Trips to Add to Your Bucket List

The United States is legendary for its breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife, and sheer variety of opportunities. America’s national parks and protected lands offer chances for exploration unlike any other. This can be your guide to choose the ultimate adventure for your next backpacking trip. From the landmark Grand Canyon, to more off-the-beaten-path locations, the US is a wonderland for travel, hiking, biking and all kinds of adventure to add to your bucket list.

1. Grand Canyon National Park

There’s no adventure more iconic than hiking the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Trail at Grand Canyon National Park. This hike is serious business, and less than one percent of the park’s visitors actually descend into the canyon. The strenuous path takes you 6,000 feet down into the canyon, up the other side, and back again. What makes the experience even more special is backcountry camping at the bottom of the canyon. You’ll just have the company of the night sky, the Colorado River, and the two-billion-year-old massif around you. It’s one of the best ways to see every vantage point of America’s iconic canyon.

2. Acadia National Park

The first park east of the Mississippi, Acadia is well-known for its beautiful scenery and high-society vibe. The park doesn’t have many multi-day hiking trails, but the real joy in Acadia is the sheer variety in experiences available. There are dozens of day hiking trails, from oceanside to mountainside, like the adrenaline-pumping Precipice Trail, which hangs off the side of Champlain Mountain. There’s also opportunities for biking, horseback riding, and kayaking. The best way to experience Acadia is to camp overnight and take advantage of as much as possible.

3. Zion National Park

No other national park can quite match the otherworldly landscape of Zion. Crowned by Zion Canyon, the park branches out into rocky cliffs, desert vistas, and mountain-lined alleyways. The best activity for adventure-seekers is traversing The Narrows. This 16-mile gorge squeezes a flowing river between its walls, and though at times the trek can get claustrophobic, it’s always exciting. Most visitors hike bottom-up, but experienced hikers can get a permit to trek top-down. Hikers can also take advantage of Angels Landing, one of the country’s best day hikes.

4. Glacier National Park

 Once advertised as “America’s Switzerland”, Glacier National Park is mainly known for its scenic drives, but it’s also an excellent backpacking spot. The park’s extensive back country camping is divided in two halves by the Continental Divide. The west side is more forested and therefore isolated, but the east side is known for its mountain vistas. Some of the best backpacking journeys are the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop, for its panoramic views, and the trail up to Goat Haunt, which continues into Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park.

5. Denali National Park

Denali is one of America’s legendary backpacking spots. Popular activities include biking the Park Rd, 92 miles of tundra, mountains, and meadows, bringing you all the best scenery of the park, or hiking the Kesugi Ridge to Mt. Denali. The real joy, however, is wandering off-the-beaten path, literally, with the park’s trail-less hiking. The park maintains quotas for backcountry camping, ensuring that Denali’s pristine isolation remains. Keep an eye out for the park’s incredible wildlife: foxes, moose, wolves, and grizzlies are all residents.

6. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is surely already on every backpacker’s bucket list. The legendary California landmark has been a mainstay for wilderness-seekers since settlers went out West. Most visitors head to Yosemite Valley, where you’ll find El Capitan and the Half Dome. These are absolute musts, but most of these areas are no-camping zones. Backpackers instead should head up to Clouds Rest. This trail gives panoramic views of the entire park, including the entire Yosemite Valley.

7. Yellowstone National Park

While most travel to Yellowstone for its geysers, there’s another star in the park: the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River is a 20-mile-long canyon topped by a majestic waterfall. Go backcountry camping at one of the sites along the Yellowstone River, and make a journey of the different day hikes in the area. After conquering the Grand Canyon, head to the less-visited Black Canyon. From the Yellowstone River Trail or Hellroaring Creek Trail, you can merge onto the Blacktail Creek Trailhead, and transfer your tent here. It’s well worth it to see an untouched side of the park.

8. Redwoods National Park

Redwoods National Park isn’t just home to some of the tallest trees on earth; it also features some gorgeous coastline. One of the best full-day hikes is the Fern Canyon Loop, which takes you through the forest, and out to the sea. Once you’ve been acquainted, pick one of the park’s backcountry sites and set up camp. The only real multi-day hike in the park is the Coastal Trail; you can set down this path, or take up one of the many bike paths. After exploring here, branch out to the park’s surroundings. Redwoods National Park is also shared with nine different state parks, among the best of which are Humboldt and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Parks.

9. Arches National Park

Arches is a unique backpacking experience. The terrain is decidedly inhospitable, with many trail-less sections, and no sources of freshwater. Backpackers here need to be experienced and plan well ahead. However, that shouldn’t discourage you, because backpacking here is an unforgettable experience. Take a sunrise hike on the Devil’s Garden Trail, which is a veritable showcase of the park’s best arches. Another can’t miss is the Delicate Arch Trail, home to the park’s most photogenic structure. Along the way, you’ll also see ancient Native American petroglyphs, a fascinating shot of history into your adventure.

10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Even as the most visited national park in the country, Great Smoky Mountains still has plenty to discover. Visitors flock to the park in autumn to see the incredible changing leaves, and that’s the time to make the most of your trip. Some of the best multi-day hikes are on the Newfound and Davenport Gaps. The former leads up to the Chimney Tops, a viewpoint accessible to any hiker. The latter, however, is the longer and more challenging journey. It’s part of the Appalachian Trail, so it is great if you’d like to add sections of it to your backpacking resume. On the way, you’ll not only see mountain vistas, but historic homesteads, one of the most charming aspects of the park.

11. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is one of America’s foremost wilderness paradises. With snow-capped mountains, colorful valleys, and pristine lakes and waterfalls, it’s got everything a backpacker could ask for. The park’s biggest trail is the massive 40-mile Teton Crest Trail, stretching 10,695 feet above the wilderness at its highest peak. It’s perfect for seeing everything the park has to offer, like Marion; Phelps Lakes, and numerous canyons, like Granite and Cascade. Grand Teton also offers chances for world-class biking, elk-spotting, and rafting down the Snake River.

12. Big Bend National Park

One of the most isolated US National Parks, Big Bend is a unique landscape right at the edge of the country. The Outer Mountain Loop is the most popular multi-day hike here, and winds 40 miles through all the park’s different landscapes. First, you’ll walk through Laguna Meadows, for your first glimpses at the mountain tops, then ascend the canyon rim, with views over the Chihuahua Desert. Be sure to catch sunrise here; it’s absolutely unmatched. You’ll hike in and out of canyons to historic ranches and caves, all with some of the country’s best stargazing views. Close off your visit with some rafting down the Rio Grande.

13. Isle Royale National Park

Moving on to another extreme of the country, Isle Royale is tucked away in northern Michigan. The park is renowned for its wooded solitude and aquatic activities in Lake Superior. It’s also the least-visited park in the contiguous 48 states, making it a great opportunity for backpackers. The park’s best trail is the multi-day Greenstone Ridge, that runs the island end-to-end, including stopping at the highest point, for vistas over Lake Superior. There’s also plenty to explore, off-shore, like scuba diving the island’s ten shipwrecks, and cabin-spotting from a kayak.

14. Olympic National Park

The Pacific Northwest is known for its dreary weather, but for Olympic National Park, it’s its greatest asset. The wet climate has spawned untouched rainforest and an eerie coastline, and there’s three main choices when backpacking here: coast, forest or mountains. The North Wilderness Trail runs 20 miles along the beach, and in some places it’s the only way to get to the ocean. The path runs past the coast’s rocky outcrops, with misty rain and crashing waves, and also runs further into the forest, so you can see the park’s famous moss-covered greenscape. Finish off your hike with a visit to the hot springs. You can even book a massage here.

15. Rocky Mountain National Park

There’s no US mountain range more legendary than the Rockies. The park is a year-round playground for adventurers and backpackers. Other than mountain-climbing and winter snowshoeing, there’s numerous hiking opportunities. One favorite is the Thunder Lake hike. Taking only about two days, the path takes you through the Rockies best landmarks, like Copeland and Ouzel Falls, and of course Thunder Lake itself, the park’s most famous lake. Afterwards, you can continue hiking to the Lake of Many Winds, or turn back.

16. Gates of the Arctic National Park

This is the number one least-visited national park in the United States. It’s also one of only two national parks located above the Arctic Circle. If you’re looking to really get away and experience nature, there is truly no better place. With no roads, the only way to get in is by floatplane or hike, and the park is completely trail-less. Travel here in the summer for the midnight sun, and just explore. Find landmarks like the Thunder Valley or Arrigetch Peaks, and spend your time crossing rivers and mountains, wandering past turquoise lakes, and spotting everything from caribou to mountain sheep.

17. Lost Coast Trail

Running 25 miles down the northern California coast, the Lost Coast offers stunning views of black-sand beaches, golden cliffs, and meadows, unlike anything else in the state. This hike is challenging because of the terrain; much of the mileage is covered on wet sand and rocks. Hikers also have to negotiate the dangers of high tide, which can sometimes cover the whole beach up to the rock. Some backpackers also bring along surfboards to take advantage of the water. This corner of the state is isolated and off-the-beaten-path, but the reward is well worth the effort.

18. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

A quintessential symbol of the Utah wilderness, Grand Staircase-Escalante is a varied landscape of deserts, canyons and rivers. One of the most famous paths is Coyote Gulch. For experienced hikers only, the trail runs past some of the monument’s best landmarks, with massive arches like Stevens Arch and Coyote Natural Bridge, and canyons like the Dry Fork. Another option is the Main Fork Red Breaks Canyon, with incredible slot canyons. Hiking Zebra Canyon and The Tunnel is a less strenuous hike, with no less spectacular experiences.

19. Haleakalā National Park (Sliding Sands Trail)

People don’t usually think of Hawaii as a backpacking destination, but these islands have some of the most unique and interesting landscapes in the US. Haleakalā is called “The House of the Sun” by Hawaiians, and is centered around a dormant volcano. The colorful sands and ash make a surreal volcanic landscape, which is best visited on the Sliding Sands Trail. It takes you past craters, volcanic pits, and striking colors. The park also has a coastal forest, with lush plant life and stunning waterfalls.

20. White Mountain National Forest

New England’s premier backpacking destination, White Mountain is perfect for skiers, mountain climbers, rafters, and those just looking for some fall scenery. The biggest trail here is the Pemigewasset Loop, which tops eight 4,000ft+ mountains, but there’s also shorter journeys. Popular adventures include summiting Mts Washington or Madison, or heading into Franconia Notch, up to Mt Lafayette. No matter what path you choose, you’ll see some of the most electric fall colors in the country.

As you plan your next backpacking trip across the United States, remember that the real magic often lies beyond the trailhead. While guidebooks and maps are helpful, nothing compares to the knowledge and insight of someone who actually lives there. That’s where Hellocity comes in.

By booking a local guide through Hellocity, you gain access to hidden trails, secret campsites, cultural insights, and real-time tips that you just can’t find online. Whether you're exploring the depths of the Grand Canyon, trekking through the wilds of Denali, or discovering a lesser-known gem in your home state, a local can enhance your journey, keep you safe, and turn an ordinary hike into an unforgettable adventure.

Don’t just check places off your bucket list—immerse yourself in each destination. Connect with a local on Hellocity and experience backpacking in the U.S. the way it was meant to be: authentic, informed, and totally unforgettable.

10 Must-See Fairy Tale Castles — in America!

When we think of castles, our minds tend to wander to the misty hills of Scotland, the regal chateaus of France, or the dramatic cliffside fortresses of Portugal. But what if we told you that you don’t have to leave the United States to walk through ornate great halls, spiral up turreted towers, and admire medieval grandeur?

While America never had its own royal families, it did have ambitious industrialists, wealthy dreamers, and theatrical personalities who brought their castle fantasies to life — often in spectacular fashion. Built between the Gilded Age and early 20th century, many of these estates now serve as public landmarks, museums, and event venues. Each one offers a portal to another time and place, minus the transatlantic flight.

Here are 10 awe-inspiring fairy tale castles you can explore right here in the U.S. — and how to make them part of your next adventure.

Hearst Castle, California 

Nestled high above California’s rugged Central Coast, Hearst Castle is a jaw-dropping mix of Spanish Revival architecture, ancient art, and sweeping Pacific views. Designed by architect Julia Morgan for newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, this 165-room estate took nearly 30 years to build.

Known as La Cuesta Encantada (“The Enchanted Hill”), the estate includes multiple guesthouses, 127 acres of gardens, Neptune and Roman-style pools, and opulent interiors showcasing ceilings imported from 15th-century Europe. Highlights include the Gothic Study and the Casa del Mar guesthouse, which overlooks the ocean.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Today, it’s a California State Park and a fully accredited art museum open for guided tours. It’s a must-stop for architecture lovers, history buffs, and film fans (you may recognize it as the inspiration for Xanadu in Citizen Kane).

Biltmore Estate, North Carolina 

Step into America’s largest privately owned home at the Biltmore Estate, an 8,000-acre retreat nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Built in 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt, this 250-room French Renaissance château is a masterpiece of the Gilded Age.

Tour the grand Banquet Hall with its 70-foot ceiling, visit the indoor pool and bowling alley, then stroll through manicured gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (Central Park’s mastermind). Don’t miss a visit to the estate’s winery—one of the most visited in the U.S.—and seasonal festivals that bring this historic property to life year-round.

The Breakers, Rhode Island 

The Breakers is a Vanderbilt mansion located on Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island, United States. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, The Breakers is one of Newport’s most beautiful summer homes, completed in 1895 as a summer home for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, the prominent railroad tycoon who had inherited much of the Vanderbilt family fortune from his father William and grandfather Cornelius. With 70 rooms and over 125,000 square feet, it dwarfed all of the other Newport mansions, and it would come to epitomize the luxury, grandeur, and excess of the Gilded Age. 

Drawing inspiration from the Italian Renaissance palaces of 16th century Genoa and Turin, Hunt designed the 70-room mansion to include the grand Dining Room, with its dramatic freestanding columns and gilded cornice, and drafted in contemporary talents like Austrian-American sculptor Karl Bitter to create relief sculptures and Parisian interior design firm Jules Allard and Sons.

Bannerman Castle, New York 

On an island in the Hudson, a tiny island 60 or so miles up the Hudson River from New York City, lie the remnants of a Scotsman's fortress called Bannerman Castle. Built in the early 20th century not as a home, but as an arsenal for Scottish-American merchant Francis Bannerman’s vast weaponry collection. 

In the decades following the Civil War, it was the center of entrepreneur Bannerman’s northeastern retail empire. Bannerman, who was born in Scotland but raised in Brooklyn, accumulated and sold surplus military goods from a young age, and began his catalog business following the war.The castle was designed to resemble the medieval fortresses of Bannerman’s birthplace 

Following his death in 1918, Bannerman Castle fell into disrepair and much of the structure was destroyed by a fire that broke out in 1969. Today the island is overseen by Bannerman Castle Trust who offer summertime island tours and host events including barbecue picnics and concerts. 

Public access to this island has had a small window of opportunity, curtained by Native American and Dutch settler's fear of resident spirits and goblins, and then restricted since 1900 for more contemporary safety reasons. While Pollepel Island and the castle itself are largely cut off from the public, they’re accessible for tours throughout summer and fall, and a fantastic reason to take a day trip upstate. 

Castello di Amorosa, California 

Castello di Amorosa is a medieval-inspired Tuscan castle and winery in the northern reaches of California’s Napa Valley. 

Constructed over a 14-year period, Castello di Amorosa officially opened its doors in 2007. Designed by owner and fourth generation winemaker Dario Sattui as a winery, the castle is surrounded by acres of vineyards producing award-winning Italian-style wines. Featuring 107 rooms, most of which are used for winemaking, Castello di Amorosa includes a drawbridge, a great hall with replica Italian frescoes and even its own dungeon and torture chamber. 

The castle interiors include 107 rooms on 8 levels above and below ground, covering 141,000 square feet. The property contains numerous original features including a late Renaissance iron maiden in the torture chamber, a a 500-year-old fireplace, and Italian frescoes. The hillside surrounding the property houses a labyrinth of caves some 900 feet in length, while beneath it lies a 2-acre barrel cellar and tasting rooms where visitors can sample the wines. 

Boldt Castle, New York 

At the turn of the twentieth century, hotel magnate George C. Boldt, millionaire proprietor of the world famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, set out to build a full size rhineland castle in Alexandria Bay, on the picturesque Heart Island. The castle was to be a display of his love for his wife, Louise. 

Beginning in 1900, the Boldt family spent summers in the 1000 Islands at the Boldt Families Wellesley House near Mr. Boldt’s Wellesley Island Farms while 300 workers including stonemasons, carpenters, and artists fashioned the six story, 120 room castle, complete with tunnels, a powerhouse, Italian gardens, a drawbridge, alster tower (children’s playhouse) and a dove cote. Not a single detail or expense was spared. 

Tragically Louise died mere months before Boldt Castle was completed and a devastated George abruptly halted its construction, leaving the property empty and desolate for more than 70 years until the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired it and completed the restoration project. Since 1977, several million dollars have been applied to restoring and improving the Heart Island structures. Boldt never returned to the island, leaving behind the structure as a relic of his love. 

Thornewood Castle, Washington 

Thornewood Castle is a 500-year-old Tudor Gothic historic site in Lakewood, Washington. The castle has stood for over a hundred years, nestled among old growth fir trees on four acres at American Lake in Washington State. This English Tudor/Gothic mansion is one of the few genuine private castles in the United States and the only one on the West Coast. 

Chester Thorne, a local prominent banker and developer, dreamt of building a Tudor Gothic home. In 1907, Mr. Thorne purchased a 400-year-old Elizabethan manor in England and had parts of it dismantled and shipped piece by piece to be included in the main house with the help of well-known architect Kirtland Kelsey Cutter. 

Construction took three years to complete, from 1908 to 1911, with many of the materials, including the front door, oak paneling, and oak staircase, shipped from the castle in England. The red brick facing on the outside of the estate was imported from Wales. Three ships were commissioned to transport these building supplies around Cape Horn to the Pacific Northwest. 

Now an inn, guests at Thornewood Castle have access to the estate’s private dock and lakeside beach and the beautiful sunken ‘Secret Garden’ designed by the famous Olmsted Brothers, sons of Frederick Law Olmsted. 

Fonthill Castle 

Fonthill Castle was the home of the American archeologist and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Mercer, who was also an anthropologist, ceramist, scholar and antiquarian, built Fonthill Castle from 1908-1912 as a home and a museum for his collection of tiles and prints, mostly famously the Moravian tiles. The castle is a mix of Medieval, Gothic and Byzantine architectural styles. 

The castle features 44 rooms, over 200 windows, 18 fireplaces, 10 bathrooms and a powder room. The interior was originally painted in pastel colors, however age and sunlight have unfortunately deteriorated the former hues. As a result the paint in one room in the Terrace Pavilion (built on the site of the former home's barn), has been restored so visitors can witness the home's former glory. 

The castle is filled with an extensive collection of ceramics that are both embedded in the structure of the house, and displayed as artefacts from Mercer’s world travels. The collection includes Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets dating back to over 2300 BCE, along with 1,000 prints from Mercer's extensive collection, and six thousand books, almost all of which were annotated by Mercer himself. 

Gillette Castle 

Gillette Castle, Connecticut, was originally a private residence called ‘Seventh Sister’ commissioned and designed by William Gillette, an American actor, director, and playwright who is most famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on stage. Gillette resided at this estate between 1919–1937, before it was purchased by the state of Connecticut in 1943 for $5,000 

Gillette built this castle in 1914 as part of his estate, designing the home himself and overseeing every phase of the construction. While the outside looks shows little more than castle ruins, the inside tells a very different story, decorated as it is with an array of modern innovations such as built-in couches and sliding tables. 

A number of oddities exist inside the home that were personally designed by Gillette and said to be examples of his "creative genius”, including a series of mirrors above the great hall allowing him to view visitors from his bedroom. This design is thought to have helped Gillette spy on guests and make dramatic entrances, a secret door that allowed Gillette to unexpectedly and theatrically appear, and an elaborate 3.2-mile railroad with mini trains winds around the property. 

Iolani Palace 

Iolani Palace, Honolulu, is the only true royal residence in what’s now the United States. Throughout the 19th century, Hawaii was a unified monarchy, and after its construction towards the end of the century. 

The cornerstone for Iolani Palace was laid on December 31, 1879 with full Masonic rites and construction was completed in 1882. The Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian monarchs, where they held official functions, received dignitaries and luminaries from around the world, and entertained often and lavishly. Iolani Palace was ahead of its time as it was outfitted with the most up-to-date amenities, including electric lights, indoor plumbing and a modern communications system – the telephone. 

The Palace remained the official royal residence until the overthrow of the monarchy by the US military, where Queen Liliuokalani was eventually imprisoned. The castle was used as a government building for about 80 years before being restored as a regal site. Today the castle is open to the public for tours. 

Ready to Explore These Castles Like Royalty?

Whether you're dreaming of turrets and tapestries, medieval moats and ocean views, or simply looking for an extraordinary escape into America's hidden history, there's a castle waiting for you. But don’t just show up — experience them like a local adventurer.

With Hellocity, you can book a personalized castle-hopping tour designed around your interests, schedule, and travel style. Whether you want a private wine tasting in Napa, a romantic getaway in a Gothic manor, or a scenic river cruise to a haunted island fortress — our local guides can make the fantasy real.

Your fairy tale awaits. Let Hellocity make it unforgettable.