11 Amusement Parks in the U.S. That Are Completely Free to Enter
A few even charge you nothing for parking and entertainment. Amusement parks are synonymous with so many wonderful things: fun in the sun, rollercoasters and carousels, games galore and delicious food. And all in a colorful, jubilant, family-friendly setting. The only issue? Joy like that does not typically come cheap. Or can it? Well, at these 11 amusement parks across the U.S., from the Golden to the Garden States, you can save on one very important front: entry. While the vast majority of amusement parks — including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens — require tickets just to walk through the gates, these resorts and parks do not. Of course, if you want to ride the rides or snack on the snacks, you'll still have to open your wallet. (A good thing can only go so far!) But if you're someone who's more about the vibes than the rides, this is the list for you. Make sure you scroll to the bottom: There's one very famous park that's about to go "open gate" with its water parks for guests staying on property. (Hint: It's home to a special mouse!)
2024-04-10T19:25:24Z
The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States for an Unforgettable Adventure
Whether you're looking for nonstop activity or total relaxation. While traveling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, going somewhere alone has its perks. You get to choose everything — the destination, the hotel, the itinerary, the restaurants, how much money you spend and beyond. Only one opinion matters...yours. It's also a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, meet new people (if you so choose), unplug, rejuvenate and bask in moments of reflection — or even just escape reality for a few days. Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list. The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S. Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.
2023-04-21T22:03:00Z
The popular destinations you can't visit in 2024
In 2024, your wanderlust may encounter unexpected roadblocks as some of the world's most iconic destinations temporarily close their doors. From the ancient steps of the Acropolis to the shadowy corridors of Paris' Catacombs, this year marks a pause for some of the globe's most treasured sites. Another addition to the growing list is one of Hawaii's great attractions on the island of Oahu. Mayor of Honolulu Rick Blangiardi revealed that the iconic Haiku Stairs will be removed by the end of April. The twisting staircase passes through a 2,800-foot mountain trail in Kaneohe, Eastern Oahu. It was created by the US Navy during World War II and was officially closed to the public in 1987. However, hikers and tourists continued to ignore signs and barriers, accessing the stairs which have become increasingly dangerous. The problem has only worsened in the age of social media influencers. In 2021, the Honolulu City Counsel voted unanimously to remove the stairs. “This decision that was made was predicated upon our respect for the people who live in and around the entrance to the stairs, our respect for our ʻāina [land and sea], and our respect for both the future and the past history of the culture of the Haʻikū community,” added Mayor Blangiardi. Residents in the area have reportedly been dealing with disturbances from trespassers for decades, who put the treasured natural landmark at risk. Under the banner of preservation and enhancement, these closures offer a moment of reflection on the delicate balance between our desire to explore and the need to protect our cultural and natural heritage. As you delve into this gallery, discover the surprising, and sometimes hidden, reasons behind the inaccessibility of these famed locations. Click through to explore a world of closed doors and the stories they hold within.
2024-01-08T08:05:55Z