best places to visit west country

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The Most Beautiful Places in the West Country, UK

The West Country of England is formed of the counties Cornwall , Devon , Somerset and Dorset . A place of Celtic myth and legend, unspoilt villages and impressive coastline, it has castles, cathedrals, river valleys and ancient towns. Here are the must-visit places.

Milton abbas.

Close to the market town of Blandford Forum in Dorset is the picturesque village of Milton Abbas. It was built in 1780 when landowner and politician Joseph Damer decided the nearby town of Middleton was spoiling his view of the countryside. So he had it destroyed, and the inhabitants moved to the new village of Milton Abbas, out of his line of sight. Today, Milton Abbas is known for having rows of whitewashed, thatched cottages.

Clovelly, on the north Devon coast, is a small fishing village with an unspoilt feel, with cobbled streets running past historic buildings. Donkeys and sledges are used to deliver goods to the inhabitants, as cars aren’t permitted on Main Street, which runs the length of the village down to the harbour. The whole of Clovelly is privately owned, and has been for more than 700 years, passing through the hands of just three families. The great painter JMW Turner painted Clovelly several times in 1811, and Victorian worthies such as Kipling and Dickens came here often.

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Down the coast in Cornwall is the village of Tintagel where, on a peninsula jutting out into the sea, stand the ruins of Tintagel Castle. The ruins sit in two halves, connected by a footbridge over a gorge, and can only be accessed by a steep walk along the windswept Cornish coast. Tintagel has long been linked to the legend of King Arthur – Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote in the 12th century that the king was conceived here, while the poets Tennyson and Swinburne set their Arthurian works at Tintagel. Within the village are plenty of handsome historic buildings – the post office, for example, dates from the 14th century.

Cadbury Castle

Continuing with the Arthurian theme, we come to the magnificent hill fort known as Cadbury Castle, known in local tradition as Camelot, the home of Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Rising above the Somerset countryside north of the town of Sherborne, Cadbury Castle was occupied in the Bronze and Iron ages and used by Celtic tribespeople to defend against Roman invaders. It was still in use in the 11th century by the Saxons, before being abandoned. You can still see the ramparts of the castle, which draws archaeologists from universities such as Oxford and Bristol. Another great hill fort is Maiden Castle, located outside Dorchester in Dorset.

Gold Hill, Shaftesbury

Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street flanked by thatched cottages in the Dorset town of Shaftesbury, has become an emblem of unspoilt, old-fashioned Olde England, used in films and on chocolate boxes, calendars, jigsaws and Christmas cards. Founded by King Alfred in the ninth century, it’s perhaps most famous in the UK as the backdrop for a 1973 advert for Hovis bread directed by Ridley Scott before he embarked on his career in feature films.

Wells Cathedral

Regarded by many architecture writers as one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe, Wells Cathedral is hugely significant as an example of the Early English Gothic style of the 12th century, notable for its grand western front covered in medieval carvings and its golden spires. Inside, you’ll find magnificent scissor arches, and one of the finest collections of medieval stained glass still in existence.

The Devon village of Lynmouth is where the barren moorland of Exmoor meets the Bristol Channel. The landscape painter Thomas Gainsborough came here on a honeymoon in 1746 and described it as “the most delightful place for a landscape painter this country can boast”. The village sits at the confluence of the East and West Lyn rivers and is backed by huge wooded cliffs that tower over the harbour. Lynmouth is connected to the larger village of Lynton at the top of the cliffs by a funicular railway powered by the waters of the West Lyn.

St Michael’s Mount

In Mount’s Bay in Cornwall is a tidal island that can only be reached at low tide. On the island is a fortress and an ancient church, and beneath them a tiny fishing village. Together they form an extraordinarily romantic scene. Originally the church and priory were home to Benedictine monks and were gifted by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century to Mont Saint-Michel in Brittany, another tidal island monastery. The castle, begun at least 600 years ago, has been home to the St Aubyn family since the 1650s. The Mount plays an important part in Cornish folklore and Arthurian legend and is today maintained by the National Trust.

Overlooked by a splendid castle, the medieval village of Dunster lies on the northern edge of Exmoor in Somerset. Once dominated by the wool and cloth trade, Dunster retains many historic buildings and remains unspoilt by modern developments. The Priory church, the 14th-century Tithe Barn, the Dovecote that once belonged to the Priory and the Yarn Market built in 1609 by the lords of the manor all still stand. Peering over the village is the castle of the Luttrell family, which forms a dramatic silhouette when darkness falls each night.

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Just inland from Mevagissey on the Cornish coastline are the restored botanical Gardens of Heligan. Created by generations of the Tremayne family from the late 18th to the early 20th century, the Gardens were neglected in the years following World War I, when the family left for Italy and many of the staff had been killed on the battlefield. And then, in the 1990s, the overgrown and bramble-infested Gardens were restored . You can explore extensive flower gardens, Japanese, Italian and herbaceous sections, rhododendrons, summerhouses, walled gardens and a subtropical garden full of palm trees and bamboo.

Torridge Valley

The River Torridge flows through picturesque north Devon to the Bristol Channel at Bideford. The area it runs through isn’t as popular as many other parts of the West Country, but is just as worth seeing. The Torridge Valley is famous as the location of the story of Tarka the Otter , the 1927 novel by Henry Williamson. In it, Tarka is born at Beam Weir, where the river passes the village of Great Torrington and where the Georgian Beam Aqueduct carries the Rolle Canal over the Torridge. Along the valley, the river passes wooded gorges and is crossed by medieval arched bridges.

St Catherine’s Chapel, Abbotsbury

Perhaps the most striking view in the entire West Country is the isolated St Catherine’s Chapel that sits atop a hill and looks across country to Chesil Beach and the Jurassic Coast of Dorset. The 14th-century chapel was built by the monks of Abbotsbury Abbey as a place of retreat and prayer. The abbey has been in ruins since the Dissolution of the Monasteries, but the chapel still stands. The slopes around it show evidence of medieval field systems and ploughing. Glastonbury Tor in Somerset is another impressive hilltop church site, but you’ll find far fewer tourists at Abbotsbury.

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UponArriving

40 Places to See in The Western United States (Vacations, Landmarks) [2023]

This article will show you 40 (stunning) places to see in the Western United States.

These are pretty stunning destinations perfect for vacations, road trips, and for anybody interested in discovering these landmarks and points of interest.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Table of Contents

1. Moaning Cave –  Moaning Cavern Park (California)

Moaning Cave sounds like the title to an Indie film you’d probably want to avoid, but don’t be deceived. Discovered (modernly) during the Gold Rush, this cavern earned its name from the moaning sound that echoes throughout the cave. You can’t deny the intrigue of caverns, especially ones that emit moaning echoes. If you’re in the Gold Country area then try to stop by.

2. Paint Mines – Paint Mines Interpretative Park (Colorado)

Most people think about the Rocky Mountains when they think of Colorado. Here’s a lesser known spot worth your time called “Paint Mines.” This park is a cluster of hoodoos and sand-capped spires of all colors.

There’s an array of wildlife here, too. Everything from horned toads, mule deers, falcons, and coyotes call this place home. Definitely look into visiting.

3. Horsetail Fall in February – Yosemite National Park (California)

Ever seen a “fire fall?”

Better yet, have you ever even heard of a fire fall?

You’ll only be able to catch a glimpse of this elusive wonder at Yosemite National Park two weeks out of the year in February when the sun shines on the fall just right at sunset. But if you’ve ever wondered what a waterfall looks like when lit on fire, now you know.

4. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – Yellowstone National Park ( Wyoming)

Everybody knows about the Grand Canyon. And everybody knows about Yellowstone . But not everyone knows that there’s a “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone” and that it is one of the most stunning places in the country.

5. Kanarra Creek – Zion National Park (Utah)

Now that Antelope Canyon is growing in fame and rightfully so, I felt the need to showcase another stunning slot canyon, Kanarra Creek. Unlike Antelope Canyon, you’ll actually have to do some hiking through the Zion backcountry to get to this picturesque location.

6. Hidden Lake – Glacier National Park (Montana)

Really, the entire national park of Glacier could be put on this list because so few people know about the many peaks, lakes, and (you guessed it) glaciers that make up this spectacular park. I figured Hidden Lake exemplified the unknown beauty of Glacier, in both its name and its scenery.

7. Rialto Beach – Olympic National Park (Washington)

Standing tall and shaped like the Pacific’s version of the “Burj Al Arab” (the sailboat skyscraper) in Dubai, this iconic beach is a photographer’s paradise. And as the caption below suggests, Rialto Beach may be the best “Kelped” secret of the Pacific Northwest coastline.

8. Painted Hills – John Day Fossil Bed National Monument (Oregon)

Here’s a scene right out of a Dr. Seuss book except it’s real life. I’ve seen a similar sight in Asia but who knew we had this here in the United States? The painted hills are a part of a larger area of the John Day Fossil Bed where you can find fossils of horses, camels, and even rhinoceroses. And by “you” I mean skilled paleontologists, of course.

9. The Subway – Zion National Park (Utah)

Going to or from the Subway, you’ll dive through emerald waters, rappel through multiple slot canyons, scramble over boulders the size of houses, and pass dinosaur tracks. Oh yeah, and you’ll catch a glimpse of this wonder.

10. Black Canyon of the Gunnison – Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison sounds like a place straight out of a fantasy novel and it looks like one, too. It’s one of the steepest mountain descents in the world and the photos here will leave you with no doubt of that fact.

11. Zabriskie Point – Death Valley National Park (California)

Here’s yet another location you’ll have to see with your own eyes to believe it’s actually earth you’re looking at. See the tiny black things on the left that look like penguins? They’re actually humans — that’s how vast this unique landscape is.

12. White Pocket – Arizona

White Pocket’s not really white but actually full of brilliant, vibrant color… and dragons, too.

13. Palouse Falls –  Palouse Falls State Park (Washington)

Not quite a hidden gem if you live in the Pacific Northwest, but Palouse Falls is a destination many outside of the photography and hiking world have not heard about. Not to mention most people can’t believe to find out this spot is in Washington state and not somewhere in the Southwest.

14. Theodore Roosevelt National Park – North Dakota

For those who always ask what there is to do in North Dakota, well now you have an answer. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is full of badlands just waiting to be explored. The park is also known for its abundant wildlife, which include feral horses, golden eagles, and elk among many others.

15. Hidden Lake – North Cascades National Park (Washington)

Another hidden lake makes the list. This one will take a few miles of hiking to get to capture the view but as you can see it would be worth it.

16. Cathedral Lake – Yosemite National Park (California)

While this point may be known to frequent hikers to Yosemite, it’s still a destination constantly overlooked by many for other destinations inside Yosemite Valley that are easier to access. If you’re planning on making it here be sure you to apply for a permit early or take your chances with first come, first serve.

17. Tent Rocks – Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument (New Mexico)

I know what you’re thinking. These cones look like they were shaped by volcanic eruptions that likely occurred 6 to 7 million years ago. Well, you’re right. Stop by Tent Rocks to witness the artistic side of mother nature if you’re ever in the Santa Fe, New Mexico area.

Related: 18 Best National Parks in New Mexico

18. McWay Falls – Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park/Big Sur (California)

Can it get more beautiful than a waterfall (or “tidefall”) pouring into turquoise waters on a California beach at dusk? I don’t think it can. I really don’t think it can….

Okay, so maybe it can….

19. Goosenecks – Goosenecks State Park ( Utah)

A quick stop allows you to see this triple entrenched meander located close to Mexican Hat and not far from Monument Valley. Just be aware that your GPS on your cell phone will sometimes do some funky things in this region of the country. Make sure you’re actually headed to Goosenecks State Park and not an abandoned gas station 50 miles out of the way (not that it ever happened to me).

20. Garden of the Gods – Colorado

Visit the Garden of the Gods National Landmark and you will be blown away by the stark contrast between the Garden’s bright orange and the surrounding terrain. There are tons of photo ops around this place and it is easily accessible by car. Don’t miss it if you’re in the Colorado Springs area; it’s a perfect road trip pit-stop.

21. Mono Lake – California

In 2010, scientists thought they’d discovered a new “alien” DNA here, and can anyone really blame them? Just look at the formations happening here. Now, I’m pretty sure that “discovery” has been debunked, but I’m still holding out hope for aliens.

22. Bisti Badlands – New Mexico

Badlands never get old, especially when they look like giant petrified mushrooms. Here’s some badlands in New Mexico, not known to many.

23. The Window – Big Bend National Park (Texas)

Big Bend is one of the least visited national parks due to its location just west of middle-of-nowhere, Texas. But what it lacks in visitors it makes up in breathtaking views like this one.

The Window is one of those places where you have to just put life on hold, get comfortable on a bench and watch the vast Texas sky transform into a real-life painting at sunset. It’s one of my favorite national parks in Texas .

And after you get your sunset fix, head to nearby Marfa,Texas to see the sky get real freaky when the Marfa lights come out.

24. Green River Overlook – Canyonlands National Park (Utah)

A lot of people have seen images of the Canyonlands, but I still think Canyonlands National Park is overlooked so I included it. You’ll catch some of the most amazing sunrises and sunsets you’ve ever seen at this park. And if you’re a movie buff, try heading to Blue John Canyon where you can see the site where the actual accident occurred in the movie,  127 hours .

25. Blue Mesa/Painted Desert – Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)

Now it’s back to Dr. Seuss land with more absurdly colored desert land. And what makes this place even weirder is that the brown stuff you’ll assume is dirt is actually little bits of petrified trees that are reallllly old. It’s one of my favorite national parks sites in Arizona ( read more about others here ).

26. Valley of Fire – Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)

Don’t think you’ll ever be able to make your way to Mars? Well, luckily you can catch a glimpse of Mars at this state park in Nevada where Hollywood has also gone looking for the Martian terrain. There are ton of formations to check out here but the Fire Wave (seen below) is one of my favorites.

This place is only about 60 miles out from Las Vegas, so if you don’t want to drive all the way to the Grand Canyon this is the place you want to stop. If you visit this place in the summer, be sure to bring extra water because it gets HOT. Dry heat or not, it’s still the Valley of Fire .

27. Antelope Canyon – Arizona

While Antelope Canyon is becoming more known it still deserves a place on this list, because I meet tons of people who still don’t know about this sacred place. Witnessing the light beams in this canyon should be on everyone’s bucket list. Check out my write-up on Antelope Canyon for more info.

28. Inspiration and Bryce Point – Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Well known to photographers, the average vacationer is probably more interested in seeing sites like the Grand Canyon when in the area but this sight is not to be missed, especially at sunrise.

29. Smith Rock – Oregon (Smith Rock State Park)

Smith Rock, located in central Oregon, is a frequent rock-climbing destination for professional climbers and known as the birth place of “sport climbing.” The best of the best are consistently developing the latest routes and climbing techniques out here. Even if you’re not a climber it’s a beautiful setting to watch the sunrise as it illuminates this huge rock, resembling a castle towering over a surrounding moat.

30. Bodega Head – Bodega Bay (California)

When bringing up California beaches, the names usually mentioned first are those like Malibu and Big Sur. But here’s one you probably haven’t heard: Bodega Bay. At Bodega, massive cliffs suited for whale-watching overlook rocky beaches, and trails will lead you all around scenic terrain and even down to secluded beaches where you’ll be the only human being walking on the sand.

Say hello to the seals at Seal Rock and then visit the tide pools that are among the most diverse in the world and have attracted the likes of National Geographic. Just watch out for the birds when visiting the nearby town of Bodega.

31. Paradise Valley – Mt Rainer National Park (Washington)

Paradise valley. The name really says it all…

32. The Racetrack – Death Valley National Park (California)

Just how did these rocks get there? Aliens? The prankster of the century? God? Nobody really knows . The Race Track is a true natural wonder because if you visit it you will inevitably spend all day wondering who really moved these rocks?

33. Horseshoe Bend – Page, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is another spot growing with popularity but still often times confused with the Grand Canyon National Park. From a nearby parking lot, it’s a short hike to the overlook but be careful about getting too close to the edge — it’s a long 1,000 feet down to the Colorado River below.

34. B adlands – Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

Badlands National Park is the place to see badlands. It’s also a perfect place to find unique wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, the swift fox, bison, and the most endangered mammal in North America: the elusive black-footed ferret. Try to catch the sunset or sunrise here and if you’re lucky you may even catch a sight of the Northern Lights.

35. Fiery Furnace – Arches National Park (Utah)

So everyone goes to Arches National Park just to see the arches, right? Not exactly. Here’s one “non-arch” spot worth checking out. Enter the furnace at your own risk, however. Inside, there are no signs, trails, or cairns and due to the height of the sandstone walls your GPS is likely to fail as well.

36. Spider Rock – Canyon De Chelly National Monument (Arizona)

Recently used as a backdrop in last summer’s record-setting flop, The Lone Ranger , Canyon De Chelly is another destination worth a visit. The taller of the two spires is said to be home of the “Spider Grandmother” who according to folklore is responsible for all of creation. There’s more breathtaking views like the one below to checkout so make sure you see them all. Also, be sure to bring some cash with you to purchase some local art that makes for great souvenirs.

37. Giant Sequoias – Sequoia National Park (California)

So trees are kind of boring to most people including myself, but giant sequoias are definitely an exception. Sometimes growing higher than 300 feet, many of these trees are over 2,000 years old and have up to three-feet thick of squishy bark.

Head to Sequoia National Park to see them as well as the largest tree in the world, The General Sherman Tree.

38. Rio Grande Gorge – New Mexico 

The Rio Grande gets a bad wrap sometimes but this view should change your mind. If you’re ever making the cross country road trip through southern New Mexico then check out the “Gorge Bridge” where you’ll be awestruck with views like this.

39. Hospital Reef Potholes – San Diego, California

Hospital Reef Potholes, near San Diego, is known for its potholes that kind of resemble the surface of the moon. Speaking of the moon, all you national park junkies may want to start gearing up because you may have one hell of a hike to get to one of the upcoming National Park sites, soon.

40. Mammoth Springs – Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

We end the list with another Yellowstone site that many wouldn’t be able to recognize and constantly overlook, leaving it ranked as low as the 23rd attraction for Yellowstone according to TripAdvisor. On your way to the hot springs and in nearby areas, you may run into some real wildlife.

I’m talking about grizzly bears, moose, bison, elk, that kind of stuff so watch out. But everyone seems to be blown away by these hot springs, which make a worthwhile destination in the summer or in the -20 degree winter.

Remember to tread lightly and do your best to preserve these wonderful locations by using common sense and having respect for the land, the locals, and other visitors when you visit.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Great website. Never knew some of these places existed. Will definitely be visiting some of these places.

I would like to receive info on hidden, historic and other destination and sight-seeing west of the Mississippi River locations for an out of shape late 60 year old and slightly younger wife and friends who are planning a possible driving tour for the future.

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17 Beautiful Places to Visit in South West England for a Unique Getaway

Home » Destinations » Europe » UK » 17 Beautiful Places to Visit in South West England for a Unique Getaway

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Updated: 22nd January 2024

From Cornwall’s surf-friendly shores and the Jurassic Coast’s fossil-heavy beaches to The Cotswolds’ sandstone villages and Devon’s rugged moorlands, the best places to visit in South West England stretch from the untamed countryside to the shimmering coast.

Still, it’s not all lapping waves and wild trails; the region has its fair share of cultural attractions and urban centres spread across the seven counties which constitute South West England. Major cities and towns include Bath, Bournemouth (my hometown), Plymouth, Cheltenham, and free-spirited Bristol, but there are also plenty of smaller, beautiful and slightly more unusual places to stay too.

Of course, some of these destinations could be fab day trips from London , but most are better explored on a UK staycation . My advice for exploring this part of the country is to string some landmarks and locales together into a road or rail trip, staying in some unique hideaways en route. Here are my picks of the best places to visit in South West England. 

In this article...

Exeter, Devon

Exeter is Devon’s county town (the regional capital), a cathedral city, and also a UNESCO City of Literature . It’s a delightful combination of crooked timber buildings and grand Gothic architecture in its Old Core, with shaded walks and traditional pubs along the city-splitting River Exe.

Founded by the Romans more than 2000 years ago – some of the city walls are still visible – the storied streets are dotted with historic landmarks. Highlights include the 15th-century Guildhall (visitable on a guided tour), the underground medieval passages, and the much-celebrated Royal Albert Memorial Museum.

The city’s cultural crown, however, is the grand Gothic cathedral. Constructed in the 13th century, this is one of the stand-out places to visit in South West England. Outside, numerous carved statues decorate the facade, while the interior, with its vaulted ceilings and splendid stained-glass windows, is equally magnificent.

With plenty of decent pubs (The Fat Pig and Mill on the Exe are great, plus The Imperial for the converted architecture), restaurants (check out Cosy Club) and choices of B&Bs, Exeter is not only one of the best days out in Devon , but also a great base to explore the region.

Castle Combe & The Cotswolds, Wiltshire

Many of my family live in Wiltshire, home to part of the Cotswolds Area of Natural Beauty, so I’ve been very lucky to have enjoyed plenty of visits to this beautiful region. And yes, it more than lives up to its name.

This quintessentially English landscape – think quaint sandstone villages, rolling emerald woodlands, and a patchwork of farming pastures – is extensive, stretching across six counties. Yet, in the Wiltshire part, there is one village that seems to attract the most attention: Castle Combe.

It’s actually pretty diminutive – less than 400 people call the village home – and has no significant attractions to boast. But with a small tributary of Avon River running through it and picturesque cottages, it’s garnered plenty of Instagram attention.

Don’t let that deter you from visiting, as there are more than 750 square miles of The Cotswolds – and plenty more villages – to get lost amongst. Ramble on woodland trails, slip into rural pubs for pies and pints, and fall in love with South West England. This is the best of the British countryside.

St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

With so many incredible places to visit in Cornwall , I could pack this article out with just those suggestions alone. Instead, I’ve picked two of the region’s most famous landmarks, starting with St Michael’s Mount.

Like France’s Mont St Michel , this tidal island in South West England was founded as a pilgrimage site with a Benedictine church. Later, it became a fortress, then a stately home, before becoming today’s famous tourist attraction.

Accessed from the town of Marazion by a brick causeway, you can cross from the mainland to the island on foot. On arrival, you can tour the storied castle – still a family home – and the terraced gardens before visiting the 14th-century church.

If you’re looking for one of the more unusual places to stay in South West England, you can’t go wrong with this luxury camping pod , complete with privileged hot tub views across the mount and surrounding landscapes. You’ll also be well placed to enjoy one of my favourite trails in the area, the mighty Perranuthnoe to Porthleven coastal walk.

Bath might have grandeur, and Bournemouth the beach, but Bristol is arguably the best city to visit in South West England. It’s got its fair share of historical buildings, the ruins of St Peter’s Church or the mighty Bristol Cathedral, to appreciate. Yet it also oozes with a youthful, student-heavy soul and plenty of creativity.

Street art is rife in Bristol – unsurprising given this is Banksy’s hometown. Touring the city’s lanes and corners will take you on a tour of humoured, thought-provoking and sometimes just bizarre murals and stencil art. It’s not just outside, though; there are plenty of first-class museums and galleries to explore, with the hulking Bristol Museum – packed with classic masters and contemporary pieces inside its grand Edwardian exterior – leading the pack. We Are The Curious , an interactive space, is also well worth a visit.

Bristol also brags plenty of green spaces and riverside hangouts along the River Avon. Hop on a boat trip and sail out to see the Clifton Suspension Bridge, or take a hot air balloon (the city has an annual festival in August) for a bird’s eye perspective.

Comedy clubs, cracking nightlife, a decent LGBTQ+ scene , and top-notch theatre performances make this a city break that will keep you entertained well into the early hours. Free-spirited and ever-changing, there’s a reason Bristol often tops the list of places to visit in the South West.

Lulworth, Dorset (Jurassic Coast)

For the next incredible three spots to visit in South West England, we’re heading to England’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast.

While beautiful Bournemouth and its magnificent beach deserve mention as a good starting point for a road trip along Devon & Dorset’s Jurassic Coast , the real magic is found in the coves, bays and fossil-infused rock formations which this nearly 100-mile long stretch of shore is famed for.

What makes it so unique is the history held within the cliff faces and sometimes even on the sands. Fossils dating back some 185 million years  – including the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods – have and are still being discovered here, making this European beach destination as fascinating as it is fetching. On some beaches, you might even discover Ammonites and Belemnites yourself.

Lulworth Cove is one of the most picturesque villages to head to for an introduction to the area. With traditional pubs clad in stone, ice-cream vans, and a near-perfect pebble bay, Lulworth is seaside holidays personified.

From here, it’s around a one-mile walk along the trail to two of the Jurassic Coast’s most famous spots. Durdle Door, an impressive limestone arch that climbs into the sea, is the prominent landmark, while Man O’War beach is one of the region’s most dazzling.

Far from being one of the more unusual places to visit in South West England, these two locations become very crowded in the summer months. That’s why it’s one of my favourite places to visit in Europe in April , as the wildflowers arrive before the crowds, meaning it’s beautiful for rambling. Of course, if you want beach weather, you’ll need to opt for sunnier summer months.

Chapman’s Pool Beach & Kimmeridge Bay, Dorset (Jurassic Coast)

These are two of my favourite places on the whole Jurassic Coast, and whenever I return, I can’t help but smile at childhood memories. The first, Chapman’s Pool Beach, close to the town of Swanage, is one of the wilder and more secluded swimming spots in South West England. This means no lifeguards and a step narrow access path, but if you don’t mind, you’ll be rewarded once you reach the waters.

The second, Kimmeridge Bay, is on the Isle of Purbeck, which is more of a peninsula than an island. Sadly, like Durdle Door, it’s located on private land, so there is a charge to enter and park on the lane. This does mean that it gets fewer visitors than some of the other public beaches, and if you schedule a visit at low tide, the chances of finding a fossil here are more likely than on the busier bays.

The Etches Collection museum nearby houses some of the more significant and more impressive fossil findings from the bay. While it’s certainly interesting, you’ll want to factor in the £9 entrance fee and consider if you’d prefer to go to the more extensive and slightly lower-priced museum in Lyme Regis instead.

Lyme Regis, Dorset (Jurassic Coast)

Lyme Regis is another popular seaside escape in South West England. At first glance, it might seem like any other beach-facing town, yet, for some reason, this one feels ‘special’.

As with much of the coast, the ancient fossils that give the route its name can often be seen – the famous fossil collector Mary Anning hails from Lyme Regis – and the geology-focused Lyme Regis Museum and impressive fossil collection at Dinosaurland offer further insight.

Lyme Regis is also packed with plenty to do. There are beautiful beaches but also pretty gardens, plenty of pubs, nearby walking trails and an old-school artistic vibe. Every time my school friends’ Whatsapp group comes alive with the chatter of us all returning to Dorset for the summer, we usually set our sights on enjoying a few days away together here, drawn by the fact you can stay at chalets right on the beach .

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Set in the Mendip Hills of Somerset, this magnificent limestone gorge and cave system is one of the more unusual places to visit in South West England. Whether you just enjoy the dramatic drive through the gorge or stop for a hike, you’ll leave marvelling at Mother Nature.

For those who do stop, you’ll be rewarded with a true adventure playground. Hike up Jacob’s Ladder, a steep set of stairs that will bring you to magnificent views 450 feet above, before embarking on the cliff-top trail. One thing to note is this part is on private land, so you’ll need to buy a ticket to climb the steps and visit Pavey’s Lookout Tower.

Cheddar Gorge is also a very historically significant location, as this is where the oldest human skeleton in Britain – around 10,000 years old – was found. It’s truly a hidden gem in Europe worth making the detour for!

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Perhaps the most famous place to visit in South West England is the intriguing collection of pre-historic sarsen stones known as Stonehenge . I’m going to warn you, though, that it will cost you around £20 to see them up close, although you can get a free glimpse from further back on the public heritage trail.

Regardless of how you decide to visit, one thing is for sure – this weathered rocky ring of upright sarsen and bluestones is one of our nation’s greatest mysteries. Surrounded by burial mounds and a favourite place to be on the solstice due to the alignment, it’s really rather fascinating. I’ll admit, I was adamant I wasn’t going to pay to enter and just take a look from further away, but in the end, I succumbed, and I’m glad I did.

Another bonus of entering with the National Trust ticket is you can see some mocked-up style ‘homes’ from the time period and visit the education centre to try and grasp an understanding of how these 25-ton stones were placed. Of course, many mysteries remain, and you won’t come away with all the answers. But then again, perhaps we will never know how or why this Neolithic monument was constructed more than 4000 years ago.

Dartmouth, Devon

Hugging the mouth of the River Dart, the pretty town of Dartmouth is a solid base to pick to explore all South Devon offers – both for the coast and the region’s interior.

This is also a great spot for water sports in South West England, as you can choose from the calmer waters or travel along the coastal path to Compass Cove Beach.

Dartmouth also has a couple of galleries and cultural attractions to visit, such as the small Dartmouth Museum – mainly WWII and maritime-focused – and Bayard’s Cove Fort, which dates from the Tudor period. Outside of the summer season, visitors are also relatively scarce, making the off-season the best time to visit.

Still, even in the peak months, you can still find some reasonably priced accommodation, especially if you look a little inland and consider camping or glamping in a jazzed-up yurt . Being slightly inland will offer easy access to other nearby attractions, such as National Trust properties and the kid-friendly Woodlands Family Theme Park.

Glastonbury, Somerset

If you’ve heard of Glastonbury before, you’re likely imagining muddy fields, music raves and hippy tents. Yes, this is the home to South West England’s best-known event, Glastonbury Festival.

Yet, when the music isn’t blaring, Glastonbury remains one of the most interesting cultural places to visit in South West England – and is undoubtedly a lot more chilled out outside of June.

Legends and myths linger in the air of this town, and the most prominent relates to King Arthur’s Tomb , which you can find here. The high street itself also feels rather storied and is sometimes compared to Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books. The cobbled side streets are dotted with herbal and potion stores, jewellery shops, and plenty of vegan and raw food cafes – once you’ve visited it, you’ll see why this ‘awesome 80’s hippy town’ as my parents call it, became host to the festival.

Another popular spot, especially for the views, is Glastonbury Tor. From St Michael’s Tower atop, you’ll have lush, far-reaching vistas across the countryside. There are also the remains of the 8th-century Glastonbury Abbey, which was left in disrepair thanks to Henry VIII’s decision to destroy the Catholic Church .

Dartmoor National Park, Devon

Sadly, Dartmoor was in the news for all the wrong reasons in recent years due to a wild camping ban that was later overturned. But you don’t need to pack your camping gear to enjoy Dartmoor National Park; it’s a cracking day out to explore the best of England .

And boy, what a beautiful part of the country it is. Even on my most recent visit, when the weather did the typical English drizzle-and-grey-skies combo, I was reminded of how special this vast moorland is.

Being a relatively flat national park, Dartmoor is a great place for low-impact hikes without climbs. Throw into the mix some waterfalls, the adorable Dartmoor Ponies, and the odd medieval bridge and neolithic tomb, and you’ve got an exciting mix of sights to enjoy while rambling through the park. It’s certainly a contrast to the cute coastal towns and villages Devon is usually known for.

Isle of Wight 

While some would consider the Isle of Wight one of South West England’s best days out, I’d suggest spending at least a few nights on the isle to soak up all of its charms. Having circumnavigated the whole island on foot – my best friend and I decided to walk it all for charity when we were 15 as our first foray into backpacking – I can personally confirm every corner of the Isle of Wight promises picturesque panoramas. 

Easily accessed by ferry from Southsea, Lymington and Southampton, the short journey across the Solent will whisk you to the island. On arrival, you’ll find a more laid-back air, with vintage-style beach huts, dazzling beaches, and – from the other side of the island – views across the English Channel. 

Hire a Kayak to take in The Needles (chalk ridges protruding from the sea), burn through all your coppers at the amusement arcades of Shanklin, and settle in for a night of fantastic stargazing – this is a great place to switch off from the modern world.

Camping, guesthouses, and hotels of all types can be found on the Isle, but to really feel close to the island life, you could stay onboard a yacht or houseboat – certainly one of the more unusual places to stay in South West England. If you plan to visit during The Isle of Wight Festival, be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

Tavistock, Devon

Tavistock sits on the edge of Dartmoor and makes for a great place to stop for lunch on a day out in South West England. An ancient market town – these trading stalls have been selling their wares and produce here since 1105 – it retains a personality from bygone days.

The market operates from Tuesday until Saturday – Friday being the traditional fruit and veg day – in the Market Square, and it’s a nice place to call in to pick up local crafts and products from small businesses.

Brownsea Island, Dorset

What makes Brownsea Island – a short boat ride from Poole – one of the more unusual places to visit in South West England are the island’s animal residents. Home to one of the biggest communities of protected red squirrels, a small population of peacocks, and even deer, it’s a great alternative day out in Dorset.

As well as land animals, plenty of migratory and local bird species can be spotted. Which species varies depending on the time of year. Puffin sightings aren’t out of the question either, especially if you take a boat trip to try and witness them. You can also opt to camp on the island overnight.

With a limit on visitor numbers during the season, the island is open to the public (around April to October), it never feels too busy, and National Trust members don’t need to pay the fee to visit. Personally, I’d say it’s well worth the approximately £20 ticket, which includes entrance and the ferry, but to be fair, I’ve been obsessed with Brownsea Island since I visited as a kid on a school trip. Even now, having travelled much further afield, it remains one of my favourite islands to visit .

St Ives, Cornwall

For centuries, St Ives has been one of the most popular places to visit in South West England for a UK staycation. The gorgeous and expansive swatches of creamy sands – especially magical at low tide – quaint whitewashed streets and abundance of fresh seafood restaurants are crowd pleasers, making it one of the best places to stay in Cornwall as it has the lot.

It’s also a great base to explore some of the top adventure activities in the UK , such as hikes along the Lizard Peninsula or surfing on Carbis Bay. From St Ives itself, you can take boat trips to spot dolphins or see the Godrevy Lighthouse up close. For a little culture, the impressive modern art collection at The Tate will oblige.

Bath, Somerset

On my first visit to Bath, I instantly fell in love. It has the perfect balance of history and heritage buildings combined with a vibrant, forward-thinking energy. If I ever move back to England from the Algarve , this would undoubtedly be one of the first places I would consider.

I’m clearly not the only person who thinks this way, as Bath is one of the most popular places to visit in South West England. Millions of people have flocked to see the Roman Baths , which gave the city its name.

Now serving as a time capsule and museum, this thermae dates back nearly 2000 years. While it will cost you close to £20 to enter and tour the baths, it’s a fair price when you include the museum and the audio guide, which is very informative.

Bath Abbey, another of South West England’s landmark attractions, is also worth a visit and works on a donation rather than ticketed entry. Soaring fan-vaulted ceilings and towering stained-glass windows make this one of England’s most beautiful buildings, and the (paid) towers provide sweeping views over the city.

Away from the star attractions, the rest of the city is dreamy. Honey-coloured stone buildings, small independent stores, and the River Avon combine to create a postcard-worthy destination. One of my favourite places is the 18th-century Pulteney Bridge, which crosses the river, as it’s one of only a handful of bridges in the world with enclosed shops on either side.

Whether you want to snuggle up in a forest tree house, check into a converted cart, or spend your days wistfully gazing at the ocean from your cabin’s bed, you’ll find plenty more unique places to stay in the region on the Unique hideaways website.

Related Posts:

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• 10 Awesome UK Adventure Holidays: Active Coastal Hikes To Scuba in Scotland
• Best Places To Visit in Cornwall: Attractions, Beaches and Pretty Villages
• 12 Fantastic Things To Do in the UK
• 12 of the best places to visit in April in Europe: beaches, Easter,…

This places looks very interesting I hope to visit these places one Day Thank you for your wonderful blog

What a blast from the past! Growing up in Cardiff, we’d always visit the South West on holiday. Now I need to re-discover these places as an adult. Thanks for the reminder

Thanks for sharing

all these places are going to my to visit places in england they are amazing glad i found this blog

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16 Best Places In The West Of England To Visit

Okay, so there are a huge amount of pretty places in England to visit, so much so that it can be hard to whittle down just a few for your next trip. This is exactly why I wanted to make it that bit easier by sharing some of the best places in the west of England to explore. 

After exploring the stunning spots in the south of England , and then the breathtaking areas in northern England , I thought it was about time I showed you some of my favourites that we try to visit as often as possible.

Now, it doesn’t matter if you’re visiting England for the first time or flying into bigger cities like London . You can easily visit some of these spots for a few days’ getaway and see a different side of England. 

Oh yeah, and for clarity, I’m thinking of anything west of Southampton and Leeds as the west of England.

Take a, below, at some of the best places in the west of England to explore. Have the best trip! 

One of the oldest cities in the west of England, Bath was once home to Jane Austin and it’s easy to see why she loved it so much.

Growing up, I used to visit Bath every year, especially around Christmas, which was so festive. 

That being said, it’s not just a city to visit at Christmas, it’s got a shed load of Roman history that’s so incredible to see.

For instance, the Roman baths are some of the best-preserved in all of the UK.

Now, you might not be able to swim in the Roman Baths nowadays, but you can still take a dip in the geothermal waters that fell as rain over 10,000 years ago!

Pop over to the Thermae Spa which pumps some of the water directly from the city centre springs of; Cross, Hetling and King’s.

After a day of indulging, grab a bite to eat at Sotto Sotto which serves up some of the best pasta in the city. Though, make sure to make a reservation on the weekends as it can get busy. 

Afterwards, pop over to see the Royal Cresent, spot Pulteney Bridge and explore the Royal Circus, too. Now, you’ll likely walk a lot, so to keep your energy high, pop into Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House which is totally yummy. 

Read More: Best things to do in Bath

2.) Lake District

One of the UK’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Lake District is an area of England that shouldn’t be missed.

This is especially true if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. 

Now, there are many lakes you can visit once here, with the most popular being Lake Windermere. That being said, it’s worth remembering that some of the many other lakes are just as gorgeous, if not more so!

One of my favourites is Ullswater Lake which has far fewer visitors than Windermere and is picturesque.

We stayed at Another Place: The Lake , whilst here… and loved it! 

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

3.) Salisbury 

The ancient, medieval city of Salisbury is perched north-west of Southampton and is pretty easy to combine a visit when you’re exploring Stonehenge. 

Now, one of the key spots you can’t miss in Salisbury is the cathedral and the Magna Carta which is probably the most iconic part of the city. It is one of the best places in the west of England to see a piece of history. 

Afterwards, pop around The Close and see the historic houses and buildings that make up the city. If it’s some food you’re after, reserve a table at The Pheasant for some tasty British grub. 

Read more: Exploring Salisbury and Stonehenge

This historical town is teeming with history and is only a stone’s throw from Bodmin Moor.

Once you’re here, book a trip on the old steam railway for a beautiful ride through the surrounding countryside (which, is cool). Plus, don’t forget to visit the Gilbert Memorial, a large stone obelisk set in a meadow overlooking the town itself.

Now, another pretty macabre spot to visit is Bodmin Jail, which was a notorious jail in the west of England during the 1800s. It’s said, that the jail is haunted by the ghosts of previous prisoners, so make sure to stick with your group if you don’t fancy a fright Ha!

After a day of soaking in this town’s charming ambience, be sure to stop at one of the best pubs in the entire area, Hole in the Wall. Located on Crockwell Street, here you can grab some proper British classics, like; fish and chips, bangers and mash or a yummy shepherd’s pie (which is so nice on a colder day).

5.) Bristol

Perched on the River Avon, Bristol is easily one of the best places in the west of England to explore if you love cities. With a long maritime history which can still be experienced today at the historic Harbourside.

Once you’re here, you’ll find a heap of museums and art galleries that are dotted all across the city. Some amazing ones to visit have to be; The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery , M Shed for some contemporary pieces and even Brunel’s SS Great Britain that takes you back in time. 

That being said, if you’re a lover of art then make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the Banksy artwork that is dotted across the city. Oh yeah, don’t forget to spot the Clifton Suspension Bridge that spans the Avon Gorge, linking the city to the rolling English countryside of Leigh Woods. 

If it’s some good grub you’re after, then you’ve got to head to Pasture, a steakhouse that’s got one of the best chateaubriand and mac and cheese in the city. 

Read more: Best things to do in Bristol

6.) The Cotswolds

Okay, so the Cotswolds are easily one of the prettiest and best places in the west of England if you love the rolling countryside and quaint villages.  

Now, the area of natural beauty that makes up the Cotswolds is relatively close to the likes of Bristol or Bath, making it easier to visit for a few days trip.

Once here, make sure to explore some of the prettiest towns and villages like; Bibury (with the picturesque, Arlington Close), The Slaughters , Tetbury , Stow-on-the-Wold and Castlecombe. 

For a proper British pub (that’s totally historic), pop into the Wild Duck Inn in Ewen. In the winter, they have the log fires roaring and the food is just amazing. 

Read more: Best things to do in the Cotswolds

7.) Isles of Scilly 

Okay, so these have to be some of my favourite islands in all of England ! Perched around 25 miles west of Land’s End (Cornwall), it houses its own little microclimate of picturesque and unspoilt islands to explore.

Now, there are a few ways you can get to the Isles of Scilly ; either by plane from Exeter or Newquay Airport, or by helicopter or ferry, too.  Once you’re here, you’ll see exactly what I mean about the islands being very special, especially with their microclimate that allows for tropical plants and trees to grow. 

Once here, make sure to take some time to explore the islands of; Bryher , Tresco , St. Martin’s and St. Mary’s . Though, there are quite a few more than can be easily reached via the water taxis that join the islands together. 

Oh yeah, and don’t miss the iconic Tresco Abbey Gardens, they’re stunning. 

Read more: 1 – week itinerary to explore the Scilly Islands

8.) Newquay & Watergate Bay

Newquay is the surfing capital of England and a great place to visit whilst in Cornwall .

Plus, it has some incredible beaches and lovely coastal walkways that trail across this area of the English coastline. 

For one of the best beach spots, head to  Fistral Beach which is a surfer’s favourite. That being said, if you don’t fancy catching the waves, heading over to Towan Beach might be a better option.

Afterwards, head over for some tasty nosh at Scott & Babs who make some of the tastiest lunches in Newquay. Their mussels are so yummy. If it’s a good coffee you’re after, head up to Box & Barber Coffeehouse who also have some tasty homemade cakes to boot! 

Oh yeah, and make sure to take a little visit to the nearby, Watergate Bay. It’s a gorgeous and pristine beach with the Watergate Bay Hotel being a perfect spot to stay. 

It really is one of the best places in the west of England to explore.

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

9.) Saint Ives

Complete with gorgeous, sandy beaches and historic homes and buildings, Saint Ives is one of the best places in the west of England to visit. This is especially true if you want to experience some of the local charms of Cornwall itself.

Once here, make sure to head over to the picturesque waterfront and visit the Tate Gallery that’s a mecca for modern art lovers. 

Also, don’t forget to explore the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden, though, you might want to miss this if you’re not interested in sculptures or art. 🙂

Plus, if you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to The Cornish Deli which’s a great place for a light lunch or breakfast. For dinner, it’s got to be the Porthminster Kitchen that’s got some of the freshest seafood in the town. 

Read more: Best places on the coast of Cornwall

10.) Shrewsbury

Perched not too far from the Welsh border, Shrewsbury is a historic town that’s famous for being the birthplace of Charles Darwin. That being said, he’s not the only claim to fame in Shrewsbury , it’s totally steeped in history and a great place to stop for a day trip. 

The Shrewsbury Abbey and Castle are both an absolute must-see when you visit, especially as the abbey is almost 1,000 years old. Plus, if it’s a nice day, head over to Quarry Park, which has everything from walking trails to gardens, all located along the banks of the River Severn. 

That being said, if the weather takes a turn for the worst, pop into the Market Hall that’s got a huge and eclectic mix of stalls selling everything you could imagine. 

For a bite to eat, head on into Dough & Oil for some tasty pizzas and superfood salads. You’ll be stuffed when you leave. 

Read more: Best things to do in Shrewsbury

11.) Jurassic Coast 

Perched not too far from Salisbury, the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO world heritage protected coastline that is beautiful to see.

Plus, it’s one of the best places in England to search for fossils . Plus, once you’re here, make sure to take some time to see Old Harry Rocks that are one of the most iconic geological features in this part of Dorset. 

Finally, don’t forget to visit to make a pit stop at Corfe Castle (a small village and castle) that’s many thousands of years old. Afterwards, make a stop at Durdle Door and see the iconic cliff archway that’s been shaped by the sea. 

Read more: The best way to go fossil hunting in England

12.) Manchester 

One of the north of England’s most vibrant cities, Manchester is easily one of the best places in the west of England for a city break for a long weekend (or even longer).

After arriving, make sure to head over to explore John Rylands Library (which is stunning), see the Manchester Art Gallery and explore some of the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods. China Town has a heap of yummy restaurants to visit and the LGBTQ+ neighbourhood around Canal Street is a really fun place for a night on the town. 

If it’s footie you’re after, check out Old Trafford, though, if you’re not into soccer then you’ll probably wanna skip this! Plus, for a tasty bite to eat pop into Alston Bar & Beef which has some of the juiciest steaks in the city. 

Read more: Best things to do in Manchester

13.) Dunster 

Perched in the countryside of Somerset, Dunster is a historic little village that’s well worth a visit if you’re already in Somerset or the picturesque, North Devon . Now, the village itself is steeped in history and there are so many incredible little independent stores and lovely restaurants to gorge at. 

Once here, make sure to explore the 1,000-year-old, Dunster Castle , which overlooks the town itself. Afterwards, make sure to see the historic Yarn Market in the centre of Dunster and take a stroll to the nearby working watermill.

For the tastiest bite to eat, drop by Reeves Restaurant which makes the tastiest dishes and some of the best cocktails in all of Somerset. 

Plus, if you’ve got time, you can take time to explore Exmoor National Park . If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the resident deer. 

Read more: Visiting Dunster and Exmoor

14.) Liverpool 

Probably best known as the home of the Beetles, Liverpool is a pretty cool and down-to-earth city that’s got a lot going for it. 

It’s the kind of place that’s got something for everyone. Once you’re here, pop into the Beetles Story to learn all about the city and the Beetles themselves.

Afterwards, stroll on over to Liverpool cathedral and see the gothic architecture that’s so imposing. 

If you’re looking for a lively spot, head on over to Matthew Street.

However, pick your timings well as it can get very busy after a football match in the city. Oh yeah, and for a tasty bite to eat, pop into Cowshed who have some yummy meat dishes.

Read more: Best things to do in Liverpool

15.) Chester

Another English city, close to the Welsh border, Chester has thousands of years of history and is easy to visit if you’re on a road trip near Manchester or Liverpool .

First built by the Romans, Chester has a long history that you can easily find when rambling around the city itself. 

Make sure to walk the city walls, see Chester Cathedral and walk the Chester Rows (which are so beautiful). The rows are filled with lots of independent shops and little cafes which are lovely to visit. 

Oh yeah, and for a delicious Sunday Roast, pop into Upstairs at The Grill. You’ll have to roll yourself out of the door!

Read more: Best things to do in Chester

16.) Lacock 

Lacock is easily one of the prettiest towns you can’t miss when exploring England. Almost entirely owned by the National Trust, it’s kept so much of its history and heritage for us all to enjoy today. 

Once here, make sure to wander the historic streets, filled with historic cottages and old workhouses.

Plus, you’ve gotta make sure to stop off at Lacock Abbey, too.

Read more: Exploring Lacock

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Top 10 West Country You Can Visit

No 1: cornwall smugglers.

No 2: Devon Cream Tea

No 3: Somerset Cider

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Where is the West Country? A geographical and cultural guide

This travel blog is all about travel in South West England, which is more commonly known as the West Country. But you may be wondering, where is the West Country? What makes the West Country so distinguishable? And what is so special about the West Country? 

The West Country is an incredibly special place to me and many others who either call it home or visit it every year. It’s a place where cider is more popular than beer, where the locals are friendly and enjoy a more relaxed way of life, where epic nature is easy to reach from built-up areas, and a place that’s full of beaches that will make you say, “I didn’t know England could be THIS beautiful!”

But where is exactly is the West Country, and how do you define it? We’ll go into it in this article! 

Table of Contents

Where is the West Country? The Loose Definition

The West Country is loosely defined as the South Western counties of the UK. This definitely includes Cornwall , Devon and Somerset. Most people also incorporate Bristol and Dorset into their definition of the West Country, and some also include Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. This website will eventually focus on all of these counties and the City of Bristol. 

Very loose definitions sometimes incorporate West Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, but most people consider this to be the start of South East England, or at least just South England. 

Likewise, a few people consider Herefordshire to be in the West Country, but it’s more like the start of the West Midlands. 

Wessex and Dumnonia

Historically, these counties in Southern England were part of two kingdoms – the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex , which covered much of South West England (Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset) and the Brythonic kingdom of Dumnonia (part of Devon and Cornwall). Anglo-Saxons came from Germanic Saxon tribes, whereas the Brythonic people were Indigenous Celtic. 

This paved the way for how fiercely independent Cornwall still is to this day. Cornwall is an entity of its own within the West Country! 

Cornwall has a solid argument for not being England . Its geographical position (it only has a 7 mile border with Devon, and the rest of the county is surrounded by the sea and the River Tamar) and its natural geology (lots of rocky cliffs and the impassable Bodmin Moor at its centre) meant that Romans and Anglo Saxons never populated it as they did the rest of the country. 

The Romans did trade tin in Cornwall, but they didn’t feel the need to occupy the area, like in Bath and Exeter. The Anglo-Saxons left it well alone. This meant that the Brythonic people remained there, speaking their own language and having their own customs.

The Tudors were the main instigators of Cornwall being ‘properly’ in England. Although Elizabeth I is thought to have spoken some Cornish, her father and grandfather passed a few laws that negatively impacted Cornish tin-mining and, subsequently, the county’s entire economy. How did the Cornish react to this? Rebellion. 

There were three Cornish rebellions, two in 1497 and one in 1549 – the last one was focused on the English reformation . Cornish troops were protesting changes and unfair treatment and were drawing attention to the fact that they didn’t really want to be part of this country. 

The rebellions were sadly squashed by the much bigger Tudor army. The Cornish language gradually died out as the area became more and more anglicised, the last native speaker dying in 1777, and the last person who had some awareness of the language died in 1897.

However, this is not where the story of the Cornish language ends . Cornish culture and its independent spirit has never died, and the language was revived in the latter part of the 20th century. In 2009, UNESCO changed their categorisation of Cornish from ‘extinct’ to ‘critically endangered’. 

Nowadays, there’s a movement that’s gaining momentum for Cornwall to have more recognition as its own nation. In 2014, Cornish people were granted minority status . However, many people in Cornwall don’t want to be completely independent but would like to have more recognition of its distinct culture within Britain – like Scotland and Wales. 

What characterises the West Country? 

While the geographic answer to ‘where is the West Country’ is a little vague, there are certain aspects of its culture that make it a very clearly defined area. 

Contrary to popular opinion, there’s quite a lot of diversity in the West Country – while there is a lot of coutryside, there are also a few different cities, from major hubs such as Bristol, to Wells which is the smallest city in the UK. Therefore, the culture obviously varies hugely!

Bristol has an arty culture; some of its most popular attractions are its street art! Throughout the years, it has always had a strong reliance on the water and has a lot of ship-making history. 

You’ll see this reliance on the water all over the West Country. Plymouth has the biggest navy base in the country, and there are lots of fishing villages all over Devon and Cornwall. 

There is also a big farming culture in parts of South West England. As well as staggering beaches, there’s a lot of rolling countryside, punctuated by farms and jaw-dropping natural attractions. 

There are many legends in South West England, from Arthurian stories to Dartmoor ghost stories to a range of Cornish saints. It’s a place full of fantastic tales and intriguing discussions. If you want to learn a little more about the myths and legends, visit Glastonbury Tor, Tintagel Castle , or Clovelly . You could also do a paranormal tour at Bodmin Moor or visit Sennen Cove to learn about the Whooper. 

There’s also a fascinating culture surrounding Druids and ancient history too. For Druid history, visit Stonehenge (which was  believed to be built by the Druids  until fairly recently but still has strong Druid connections). 

There’s a strong music scene in Bristol, with lots of festivals throughout the year. Somerset is home to the world-famous Glastonbury Festival and The Wurzels, who are perhaps the most famous band from the ‘Scrumpy and Western’ genre. There are also some lovely Sea Shanty bands in the South West, with intriguing songs harking back from days long gone. 

Because of the South West’s geographic postition – it never saw Europe settlers on the same scale as other areas of the country – it’s distinct culture has thrived. 

Where does the West Country accent come from?

South West England has a few very well-defined accents; also due to the fact that this area of the country has been invaded less over time . The accent typically has a strong R – this is called a ‘rhotic accent’. The A sound is also elongated. There are a few differences amongst accents throughout the region, but they have many similarities. 

Then there’s West Country slang. This includes phrases like: 

• “Alright me luver/ babber?” – hello (Bristol)
• “Where’s it to?” – where is it (Bristol)
• “Proper job” – job well done (all over, especially in Cornwall and Devon)
• “Dreckly” – at some point in the future (Cornwall)

Once again, Cornwall stands apart – it actually has its own language . Rather than adopt the Germanic languages spoken in the rest of the country, Cornwall spoke its own Celtic tongue for centuries. Unfortunatley, this was squashed over the years and eventually died out in the 18th century. 

However, since the 20th century, there has been a revival of the Cornish language. Nowadays, there is much more of this Celtic language influence around Cornwall, and most Cornish people can speak a few words of their local tongue. There are around 30,000 fluent speakers, and some families are even growing up speaking Cornish, so there are once again native speakers. 

Food and Drink 

There are a few different foods that summarise the West Country. 

• Cheese is made throughout the region. Cheddar cheese, perhaps Britain’s most famous cheese, is made – unsurprisingly – in Cheddar, Somerset. For the finest cheddar cheeses in the country, make sure you go to the Original Cheddar Cheese Co! You’ve also got Devon blue cheese and Cornish Yarg. 
• Cream tea is from both Devon and Cornwall. This is a ‘meal’ that you’ll eat at about 3pm in the afternoon – usually when you have guests over or for a special occasion. It consists of a pot of tea and scones with cream and jam. The difference between Cornish cream tea and Devon cream tea is which way round you put the jam and cream on. In Devon, the cream goes on first, whereas in Cornwall, the jam goes on first!
• We can’t miss out on Cornish pasties on this list. These were traditionally made with beef, onion, carrot and swede and were eaten by miners, but nowadays they are popularly eaten throughout Cornwall and you can find lots of options – including vegetarian pasties.
• A few foods are typical of Bristol, although you won’t necessarily think of them as ‘Bristolian foods’. This includes chocolate bars (the first was made in Bristol!) and Ribena, the blackcurrant squash. 
• Nowadays, Bristol is renowned for being ‘ the vegan capital of the world ‘.

If you go to the West Country, you’ll drink more cider than beer. If you don’t, you’re not doing it right! The consumption of cider is widespread throughout the entire region, and most locals have a religious obsession with the drink. If that’s not your thing, there are also West Country ales and even local wine in Cornwall. 

Best Things to do in the West Country

The tourist industry is big in South West England, and for a good reason. These are just some of the amazing tourist attractions in the West Country. 

Road Trip the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast starts in East Dorset and spans all the way to Orcombe Point by Exmouth . It’s one of the most scenic coastlines in the country, with stunning sandy beaches and fascinating geological rock formations. 

The Dorset end starts at Old Harry’s Rocks, which are white chalk formations. The rest of the coast is made from rock and fossils from the Jurassic and Triassic periods and has some of the country’s most breathtaking views, such as the epic Durdle Door. 

In Devon, you’ll get to enjoy the oldest part of the coast and countless small beach towns. 

Hiking in Dartmoor, Exmoor, or Bodmin

The West Country is a fantastic destination for hiking. Exmoor and Dartmoor are located in Devon, and Bodmin Moor is in Cornwall. You can do all sorts of hikes in any of these moors, from short half-hour strolls to multi-day treks. All three moors are beautiful, enigmatic and alluring. 

Be careful on the moors – visibility can be obscured, and weather can change rapidly. Seek local advice before heading out, and make sure that you stick to marked paths and have the appropriate gear. 

City culture in Bristol

Bristol is the biggest West Country city, and it’s a great place to soak up some city culture. There are so many unique things to do here – from crossing the famous Suspension Bridge that links the city to North Somerset to walking around the harbour and learning about its waterfront history onboard the SS Great Britain .

There are also many suburbs with their own unique feel, such as Stokes Croft and Southville which both have fantastic street art. And the food scene in Bristol is incredible!

There are so many things to do in Bristol – spend at least a weekend here , in summer or winter , and be aware that you’ll probably be back for more!

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is one of the country’s best natural attractions; it is the deepest gorge in England and there are some spectacular views from here. It was where the remains of Cheddar Man were found – a fossil from the Mesolithic era (around 10,000 years ago) – so there’s plenty of history to learn as well.

The nearby town of Cheddar is a must-visit for one obvious reason – cheese! This is where the famous cheddar cheese is from. There are loads of other things to do in Cheddar , including exploring caves and going rock climbing!

The Spa City of Bath

There are so many reasons to visit Bath in North Somerset – it’s one of the most popular places to visit in the UK, but for very good reason. 

The Romans liked it here – they discovered the hot springs and built their own baths in the city centre. You can visit these and learn all about Roman history. 

Don’t miss Bath Abbey, which is where the first King of England was crowned. You can climb up to the top of the tower and get a great view over the city. 

Then there are Bath’s crescents. This city flourished in the 18th and 19th century, and there are still many crescents today that hark back to this period. To see what these Georgian houses looked like on the inside, you can visit No 1 Royal Crescent which is modelled to resemble a house from the time. 

After all the history, it’s time for a bit of pampering! In Bath, you can enjoy a traditional cream tea in the pump rooms before heading for a soak in the spa. This isn’t the Roman one – the Bath Thermae Spa is a modern establishment, the perfect place to soak in after a long day of exploring. 

It’s worth spending an entire weekend in Bath to experience all of the best things to do here .

The Many Beaches of the Cornish Coast 

There are so many beautiful beaches to visit in Cornwall. Some of my favourites include: 

• Summerleaze Beach in Bude – which is expansive and great for swimming.
• The small harbour beach in the fishing village of Port Isaac .
• Fistral beach in Newquay , which is world-famous for surfing. 
• Porthminster Beach in St Ives .
• Sennen Cove Beach.
• The stunning Polperro Beach. 

Historic Villages of the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is an area of beautiful rolling hills dotted by the occasional charismatic village. Not all of the Cotswolds are strictly considered West Country; parts of it are in Oxfordshire, which is technically a home county and Warwickshire and Worcestershire, the West Midlands. 

However, a large part of Gloucestershire in the Cotswolds, as are areas of Wiltshire and North Somerset. Many villages in the Cotswolds are great day trips from Bath or Bristol, too.

• Bourton in the Water is perhaps the most popular village in the Cotswolds. It’s famous for being ‘The Venice of the Cotswolds’ due to its beautiful water. 
• Stow on the Wold is a Gloucestershire market town with oodles of history. It’s got charming historic buildings and beautiful surrounding nature. 
• Winchcombe is an early Medieval town where Jane Seymour once lived. 
• Bradford on Avon is a Wiltshire Cotswolds town with a beautiful canal that connects to Bath. 

One of the most notable prehistoric monuments in the world, Stonehenge is an epic place to visit in Wiltshire. The stone circle’s origins are unknown – people thought it was the Druids for ages, but now scholars generally accept that it was a burial site and was built over a few centuries.

The biggest mystery of Stonehenge is how the rock got there – the ancient civilisation who built them transported the stones from the Preseli Hills in Wales, which are around 200 miles from Stonehenge’s site. 

They are definitley one of the best places to visit in South West England and will leave you puzzled for days after. 

Glastonbury 

Glastonbury is a quirky town situated on the edge of the Mendip Hills in Somerset. Here you can climb up Glastonbury Tor and marvel at the amazing view around you, learn about the town’s mythical history, and walk down the high street and browse the unique shops. 

Glastonbury is only a stone’s throw from Wells, which is the UK’s smallest city. It’s got a very impressive Cathedral and the oldest purely residential street in the country!

Lundy Island

This is an absolute gem of a place sitting in North Devon. Lundy Island is a largely uninhabited island with some fascinating stories behind it. Sitting where the Bristol Channel and the Atlantic Ocean meet, it’s got some incredible wildlife as well as many fascinating stories about island residents. 

Today, you can visit the island for wildlife spotting (look out for seals and puffins!), coastal walks, and epic stargazing at night. You can do a day trip to Lundy Island , but I recommend an overnight stay if possible. 

The Wonderful West Country!

So, where is the West Country? I hope that this blog post has given you a loose definition through location, culture and history!

The West Country is a wonderful part of the UK – you won’t be able to find such epic nature, distinct cultre and delicious cuisine anywhere else! If you’re planning a staycation trip in the UK, I highly recommend any of the counties that make up this wonderful part of the country.

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Where is best to visit in England’s West Country!?

The English West Country, a collection of some of the most rural, beautiful counties Britain has to offer. From the traditional farming scene of Somerset, to the bustling and charming Cornwall, this stretch of English soil means a great deal to most Brits, but to me it’s also Home. And I may be biased but a tour of Cornwall and the West Country would be up there in my top destinations to visit in England!

Visiting Rural Somerset

Growing up in Somerset, some of my greatest memories were of Somerset’s array of attractions, many of which are natural landscapes and free of charge to visit. First-up, we have the spectacular Cheddar Gorge. When driving to or from the Georgian city of Bath , no journey is complete without a trip through Cheddar Gorge. Located near the town famous of course for creating cheese, the limestone Gorge offers awe-inspiring views from its rugged cliffs, and many subterranean caves just waiting to be explored. Next in Somerset, along the list of must-see places, is the charming, and surprisingly small, city of Wells. No larger than a village, Wells gained city status from its towering cathedral located in the town-centre. Wells in recent years has become known across the country as the backdrop for the cult hit movie Hot Fuzz (2007), when Wells doubled for the fictional village Sanford, Gloucestershire. If myth and legends is your thing then i would recommend a visit to Glastonbury Abbey and the hillside tower on Glastonbury Tor both of which have connections to Arthurian Legend and the Isle of Avalon!

Discovering the Seaside Towns of Devon

Growing up in Somerset meant taking advantage of the incredible beauty that was, figuratively, right on our doorstep. Moving slightly West, we come to the neighbouring county of Devon, where we enjoyed many family holidays. Devon can be split into three distinct areas: The rugged, untamed North Coast, an area synonymous with crashing waves and surfers in the bays. With pleasant coastal towns such as Ilfracombe and Woolacombe, no trip to North Devon is complete without taking a stroll along the sea-front with a traditional Cornish ice-cream! In central Devon, we have the eerie Dartmoor National Park, famous the world-over as the setting used by Arthur Conan Doyle for the Hound of the Baskervilles. Being one of Sherlock and Dr Watson’s most read adventures, tourists (and my family!) frequented the area in numbers to wander the Moor and try and spot the infamous Hound. Finally, we have the Devonshire “English Riviera” a local term used to describe a host of Victorian seaside resort towns such as Torquay and Paignton; this area attracts holidaying Brits to its bustling entertainments, beaches and elegant picture postcard piers.

Touring Cornwall and the Cornish Coast

Finally, and leaving the best until last, we have the county of Cornwall . Cornwall is a proud area of England, boasting its own language, culture and way of life. The Cornish are relaxed, but fiercely proud of their incredibly beautiful home. Holidays growing up consisted of basing ourselves in or near the hippy hangout that is St Ives. From there, we could venture into the town to relax on the beach or grab some fish and chips as we strolled along the harbour watching the fishing boats come and go. Full disclosure, watch out for the seagulls! From St Ives, we would travel to many areas, each offering stunning views, and endless things to do for those of all ages. First of two highlights is St Michael’s Mount. Similar, although smaller, to Normandy’s Mont Saint Michel, this National Trust gem sits just off the coast from Penzance. Travel over by boat or brave the cobbles when the tide is out to the island and its secluded monastery to hear stories of myths and legends which have circled the Mount for centuries. Next, we have the phenomenal Minack Theatre. This unique theatre was carved from the top of the cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. We never got to see a show/play on our travels, but we did get to explore the many delights of this wonderful attraction, as well as stroll down to the beach nearby, one of England’s finest. Cornwall really is the perfect place to have a summer holiday.

I hope you have been inspired by my holidays growing up in the West Country . Our driving tour of Cornwall, “ The Road to Cornwall “, takes your through all of the above destinations and many, many more. Alternatively, for an intimate small-group tour of Cornwall check-out the “ Corners of Cornwall “, which visits many of the destinations listed above, as well as Port Isaac (which doubles as the fictional town of Port Wen in television’s Doc Martin), Fowey and many more traditional fishing towns and villages.

Shane Coombes

January 26, 2018

West Coast USA: Complete Travel Guide

Your complete travel guide to the West Coast of the United States covers everything there is to know, and what to do.

Quick Links

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• Coeur d'Alene

Idaho Falls

Albuquerque, silver city, great falls, crested butte, colorado springs, manitou springs, steamboat springs, breckenridge.

According to the U.S. census, the Western US consists of 13 states encompassing the dry US southwest, the temperate rainforests of the northwest, Alaska to the north, and the Hawaiian Island to the west in the Pacific.

California, the largest western state , dominates the largest swath of the West Coast. To the north, Oregon and Washington make up the rest of the western coastline before Alaska to the northwest of Canada.

Beautiful Montana boasts incredible natural beauty as do Idaho and Wyoming just to the south . Utah and Denver are Gateways to the Rockies and the stunning deserts of New Mexico, Arizona, and Nevada boast stunning oases and parks for travelers to explore. And out in the Pacific, sit the stunning Hawaiian islands.

The western United States is filled with stories of adventure and discovery with stunning landscapes such as the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, the high peaks of Colorado, and the California coast, all provoking wonder in travelers.

The long golden coast of California is always a popular destination for travelers from across the world. Southern San Diego and Los Angeles offer lovely weather and are home to a wonderful climate, beaches, and even Hollywood.

San Francisco, to the north, is home to the Golden Gate Bridge. California is also popular for skiing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains .

High Mountain Terrain of the West

The Pacific Northwest is full of lush temperate rainforests , high mountain terrain, high plains, and a stunning coastline that is full of life.

Oregon is home to the beautiful Mount Hood and scenic Portland famous for its lush green parks and vistas of high mountains. Washington is the home to Mount Rainer, the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, the towering Cascades, the city of Seattle, and the life-filled Puget Sound.

Outdoor Adventures in the West

The stunning mountains and forests of Montana and the high mountains of Colorado and Idaho are popular with outdoorsy travelers. Outdoor adventurers also love exploring the scenic desert landscapes of Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico.

Locations like the Grand Canyon and cities like Las Vegas are always popular travel destinations while locations like Sedona have become sought-after.

Alaska is a frozen world to the north, but it does thaw out every summer and is a wondrous place to dive into nature. When it comes to Hawaii, most are already well aware of the stunning beauty and escape it offers to travelers.

The climate of the West Coast might be the most varied of the US as it covered the largest percentage of the United States territory even if it contains the fewest states.

The Rocky, Sierra Nevada, Cascade, and Olympic mountains can all be found in the western US. The deserts and mountains of the southwest lead to varied climates like Nevada with its nearly endless deserts, but it also contains Lake Tahoe and the lush landscape that surrounds it.

Hawaii enjoys a subtropical climate and Alaska has its northern temperate and polar climates.

The Gold Coast

California enjoys a subtropical climate along its southern coast and a temperate climate with rather constant weather throughout the rest of the state. Here is the average weather recorded at LAX .

• Spring - 55 - 67 °F (April)
• Summer - 64 - 74 °F (July)
• Fall - 60 - 73 °F (October)
• Winter - 50 - 65 °F (Winter)

Pacific North West: Oregon And Washington

Containing Oregon and Washington State, the coastline of the Pacific North West enjoys frequent rainfall and the lush greenery of their temperate rain forests.

Washington and Oregon are also home to high planes that bridge the divide between the Cascades and the Rockies. Here is a look at the average temperatures recorded at Portland International Airport .

• Spring - 44 - 62 °F (April)
• Summer - 57 - 82 °F (July)
• Fall - 47 - 64 °F (October)
• Winter - 36 - 46 °F (January)

The Southwest: Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico

The southwest of the United States is most known for its vast deserts with incredible terrain and scenic oases. Yet, there is always much life to be discovered in these biomes.

Here is a look at the average temperatures recorded at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport .

• Spring - 62 - 86 °F (April)
• Summer - 85 - 106 °F (July)
• Fall - 66 - 89 °F (October)
• Winter - 47 - 67 °F (January)

The Mountain States: Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, And Colorado

The Mountain States are home to some of the highest elevations in the US with cities like Denver with an elevation of 5,279 feet.

The climate of this region is famous for the snowfall that draws flocks of skiers to their mountains every year. Here is a look at the average temperatures for Denver International Airport .

• Spring - 36 - 62 °F (April)
• Summer - 61 - 88 °F (July)
• Fall - 38 - 65 °F (October)
• Winter - 21 - 43 °F (January)

Home to long cold winters and short cool summers, Alaska's climate can be quite harsh for most of the year, but there are a few months each year when Alaska is excellent for visiting.

Here is a look at the average temperatures for Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport .

• Spring - 31 - 45 °F (April)
• Summer - 54 - 66 °F (July)
• Fall - 31 - 41 °F (October)
• Winter - 14 - 24 °F (January)

Thanks to a sub-tropic climate, being passed through by the Tropic of Cancer, Hawaii enjoys consistent weather all year. With the stunning beauty of the coastline of the islands, the aesthetic beauty of their volcanoes, and Oahu, the most popular Island for tourists with its famous Waikiki beach .

Here is a look at the average temperatures from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport .

• Spring - 70 - 82 °F (April)
• Summer - 75 - 87 °F (July)
• Fall - 74 - 86 °F (October)
• Winter - 67 - 80 °F (January)

The Mountains, Forests, and Deserts of the West Coast

The western US is home to the nation's tallest mountains, vastest deserts, and tallest trees. Rocky Mountains divide the west from the rest of the US while the Sierra Nevada, Cascade, and Olympic mountains are closer to the coast.

The redwood trees of California stretch to the sky and the temperate rainforests of the northwest teem with life. The Sonoran Desert in the southwest is full of wondrous locations to discover such as the Chihuahuan and Mojave deserts.

The Grand Canyon is also found in this region and is one of the most sought-after natural wonders found in the US.

Lakes and Waterways of the West Coast

The western US is home to powerful rivers like the Colorado River that was able to carve the Grand Canyon. Large beautiful lakes such as Lake Tahoe and the Great Salt Lake.

Puget Sound in Washington State is the lifeblood of Seattle's seafood industry and is an incredible destination to explore.

The Western US: Top Waterway Attractions

• Lake Tahoe - California, Nevada
• Great Salt Lake - Utah
• Puget Sound - Washington
• Wallow Lake - Oregon
• Crater Lake - Oregon

Popular Wildlife of the Western US

Throughout the western US, mule deer, white-tailed antelope squirrels, cougars, American badgers, coyotes, hawks, and several species of snakes and lizards are commonly found.

Bald Eagles are found both in Alaska and on the California coast. Destinations like Yellowstone National Park are home to some of the most incredible collections of wildlife in the US.

The waterways of Puget Sound are home to orcas, sunflower sea stars, Dungeness crab, and so much more. The vast green forests of Montana are home to a great variety of animals including the massive grizzly bear as well as moose, bighorn sheep, and elk.

The Sonoran Desert is home to the Gila monster, Anna's hummingbird, cactus wren, and many other lovely creatures that call the desert home.

Massive marine animals migrate up and down the California coast and Pacific bottlenose dolphins, Hawaiian monk seals, humpback whales, tiger sharks, hammerhead sharks and white-tip reef sharks all live off the shores of Hawaii.

The Western US is known for many things. In many ways, it represents the wildest of the US, far from the old cities of the East Coast. The West is home to towering mountains, vast canyons , endless deserts, incredible forests, and an incredible array of beautiful wildlife.

California is home to popular cities like Los Angeles and San Diego with long stretches of beaches that draw incredibly numerous crowds every year. Their popular nightlife is perhaps only matched by Las Vegas, Nevada. Some of the most popular cities for young travelers are found in the western US.

The coastline of California also includes national parks that protect the incredible habitats just off of the shore.

The shores of Lake Tahoe draw crowds when the weather gets warm, but then the slopes draw them during the cold months. The Mountains of Colorado have some of the best skiing in the world .

Cities like Seattle played an important role in American music history while today it is still home to incredible seafood markets and walkable downtown if travelers don't mind a couple of hills.

Oregon, Denver, and Tucson are also major tourist draws. While cities like Sedona have become spiritual destinations for some travelers.

Five Largest Cities in the Western US

• Los Angeles - 4 Million
• Phoenix - 1.7 Million
• San Diego - 1.5 Million
• San Jose - 1 Million
• San Francisco - 900 Thousand

Famous Food From The West Coast

What makes the food of the West Coast unique from that of other parts of the US is its incredible availability of fresh seafood, influence from southern states and Mexico, as well as a strong Asian influence as many immigrants from Asia arrived first on the West Coast. The warm, predictable weather, of much of the West Coast, also lends itself to food trucks .

Southern food makes much more of an appearance in the cuisine of the western US than in the east. Even as far north as Seattle, biscuits-and-gravy as well as spots like Ezell's Fried Chicken are quite common.

Mexican influence on the food of the western US is quite prevalent, especially in the southwest. Travelers will be able to enjoy many authentic Mexican dishes, as well as less authentic but still tasty Tex-Mex restaurants.

Travelers looking for the best Asian food in the US will find it on the West Coast. Dishes like Pho have long been adopted into West Coast cuisine while many East Coast Americans are only recently being introduced to it, and still struggling to say it right.

Asian restaurants are much more likely to be clearly defined by the nationality of their cuisine and less likely to be generically lumped together like Asian cuisine in other parts of the US.

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is also found in the western US, and it is one of the most awe-inspiring natural locations in the entire US. Carved by the Colorado River, the canyon stretches 277 miles. It is a hiker's and backpacker's dream with many adventurers available to be discovered within it.

The Grand Canyon is also home to a lot of preserved Native American culture that can be experienced and appreciated by visitors.

Bucket-List Hikes, The Incredible Terrain of the West Coast

The varied terrain and vast elevation changes make the western US a bucket-list destination for many hikers and backpackers. Travelers will have the choice of a variety of mountain ranges and terrain to conquer.

Travelers can spend days exploring the Sonoran Desert, and many people travel from all over to hike through Montana . The mountains of Utah and Colorado are also found in the dreams of hikers. Hiking the Volcanoes of Hawaii and the frozen peaks of Alaska is quite the adventure too.

Beautiful Coastline

The coastline of California may be the most well-known and most visited part of the state, and this is all well deserved, it is called the gold coast for a reason . Its white sand beaches are perfect for relaxation.

However, they are not to be outmatched by the beaches of Hawaii that also draw crowds every year. The West Coast is also full of life with a great many protected regions where nature thrives.

Travelers will find that the western US is full of amazing adventures. Outdoorsy travelers will love exploring the high mountains, deserts, and forests of the western US. Many parks in the area protect their wonderful environments while also welcoming travelers to come and explore nature.

Travelers looking for a bit more of a city experience will have plenty of fun on a night out in Las Vegas or on a stroll down the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles, travelers will find numerous restaurants, venues, shops, and more all catering to them.

West Coast represents the last frontier of the US with it comes some of the largest and most sustained ecosystems and natural settings in the US.

A trip to the West Coast can contain exploration through museums detailing events like the Gold Rush, and natural places like Yosemite National Park, and the Grand Canyon. In the western US, travelers will find that the blur between the city and nature is far shorter than in other areas in the US.

The nicest beach on the West Coast would be an interesting debate as there are many to choose from.

California is home to the longest coastline and the largest number of beaches. Long Beach might be the most famous, but Laguna Beach, Pfeiffer Beach, La Jolla Beach are among the most beautiful in California. Cannon Beach, Oregon is incredibly aesthetic and Washington's Long Beach is a popular getaway.

Travelers venture to Hawaii from all over the world to enjoy their pristine beaches. With many of the resorts offering incredible access to the ocean, Hawaii is always at the top of the list of top beach getaways.

Even Alaska, though it may be too cold for swimming, is home to an incredible life-filled coastline that many venture to every year to experience the animals that live there.

Hikes of different varieties can be found all over the western US. Travelers looking to explore stunning red rock and desert terrain in search of oases and stunning vistas will love hiking through Arizona.

Travelers looking to discover incredible wildlife will love adventuring through Yellowstone in Wyoming where they can explore the incredible landscape and spot amazing wildlife that thrive in the park. The Rockies of Colorado offer high-mountain adventures for those daring enough to embark on them.

Alaska is might be the last true wilderness in the US, and Hawaii offers an incredible subtropical climate to explore.

• 10 Beginner-Friendly Colorado Mountain Hikes For Novice Hikers

With an abundance of natural parks and stunning landscapes, travelers come from all over to backpack and camp in the western US. The southwest is a go-to spot for hikers looking for multiple-day adventures through the stunning desert terrain.

Camping in many of the western national parks is also a popular pastime. Many travelers take a page out of President Teddy Roosevelt's playbook and disappear from the world in the woods of Yellowstone.

Travelers will find no shortage of backpacking and camping opportunities in the western US.

• California Camping: The Best Campsites For Your Summer Trip

The Grand Canyon is one of the most incredible wonders of the natural world with thousands coming to experience it every year. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles with a great deal to offer those looking to backpack through it.

There are multiple routes that are often used as well as guides that the travelers can work with to best experience the Canyon. This vast wonder of nature could honestly take a lifetime to fully explore, so backpackers will be sure to find a few ways to spend some time in the Grand Canyon.

• Visit Marble Canyon: Where The Grand Canyon Officially Begins

The western US is home to some of the most famous and south after National Parks in the entire United States. Yellowstone National Park is perhaps the most famous park in the US, and it is mostly found in Wyoming but also stretches into parts of Montana and Idaho.

Yosemite National Park in California is another top park with incredibly famous vistas. California is also home to Redwood National Park with its towering trees reaching hundreds of feet into the air. 

Denali National Park in Alaska is home to some of the most incredible protected wilderness in the world, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an incredible place to witness how life thrives in a volcanic world.

• The Ultimate West Coast National Parks Road Trip

The western US is home to a vast array of animals. Mule deer, white-tailed antelope squirrels, cougars, American badgers, coyotes, hawks, and several species of snakes and lizards are commonly found throughout the west.

Travelers can spot Bald Eagles in both Alaska and California. National Parks such as Yosemite and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations for travelers looking to spot wildlife that can't be seen anywhere else. The Puget Sound, next to Seattle, is home to orcas, sunflower sea stars, Dungeness crab, and more.

Montana is home to some of the largest and most interesting Fauna in the US. Travelers will be able to spot Gila monster, Anna's hummingbird, cactus wren, and many other lovely creatures in the Sonoran Desert.

• Learn About Yellowstone's Apex Animals At The Grizzly And Wolf Discovery Center

Sunny California is often the first state travelers think of when they think of the western US, and why wouldn't they? The state literally has everything that travelers will love and enjoy.

With the longest coastline in the US, California boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the US. Southern Californian cities are popular getaways for both Americans and travelers from all over the world.

To the north, cities like San Francisco boast some of the cuisines in the west with immigrants from all over bringing their cuisine with them as the city's growing tech industry recruits from across the globe.

Travelers looking for mountains will find them too, the Sierra Nevada range is full of wonderful destinations to explore. California really is one of the top go-to destinations in the US.

Located in central California, Fresno is synonymous with natural beauty. Tucked into the San Joaquin Valley, Fresno is a popular retreat for those looking to explore the local beauty.

Nearby Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks are all within driving distance of Fresno too. Fresno isn't just for hearty outdoor adventurers either, there is plenty in the city that is attractive to all sorts of travelers, even city lovers!

Inside the city itself, travelers can look forward to exploring its parks and gardens. The city's Tower District is another popular draw as it is home to many popular local businesses. Artsy travelers will love its downtown with its Queen Anne-style station, cosmopolitan architecture, and many museums.

• National Park Gateway: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Fresno & Things To Do

Orange County is one of the most iconic names travelers think of when they think about California. Found along the state's long coastline, Orange County is a popular escape for relaxation.

Many of the popular activities here are expected, such as enjoying the surf, beach life, and the joy of visiting Disneyland.

With 40 miles of coastline, Orange County is full of wonderful beaches and popular hangouts that offer travelers the best of the California beach town experience.

Orange County is also a popular place for travelers to experience well-preserved history and art. Some of the state's most popular entertainment centers are found here too.

Newport Beach

Newport Beach, California, couldn't be a more beautiful stretch of land. The city of Newport Beach Orange County is as lovely and picturesque as they come. This city is a popular holiday destination that offers warm weather and ease of access to those that visit.

One of the best parts about this city is that it lacks the crowds of other major cities in California. Newport Beach never experiences anything close to what LA or San Diego experience.

This city may be overlooked by many, but it shouldn't be. Perhaps, part of its charm is that it's underrated. However, travelers visiting Newport Beach benefit and will be able to some of the best beach activities and water sports that can be found in California.

• Low-Key & Laid Back: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Newport Beach & Things To Do

This happening city found in Orange County, Southern California, has been attracting travelers from across the globe for years. Anaheim is the home to world-class attractions including Disneyland among many others

Travelers visiting Anaheim will also be able to enjoy exploring the city's hopping centers and cool neighborhoods. The city's incredible weather is another major draw that brings hordes of travelers here each year. More than just the home of Disney, Anaheim boast a great variety of restaurants, hotels, and resorts.

• 10 Things To Do In Anaheim: Complete Travel Guide To California's Theme Park City

Not too far from San Francisco in the Bay Area, Berkeley offers travelers an excellent combination of history, art, culture, and cuisine. The city has also famously been the home of many writers, artists, and musicians. This city is also famous for its university, UC Berkeley which draws many every year who want to explore the city's history and activism during the Civil Rights Era.

Travelers visiting Berkeley will have an excellent time exploring the city's numerous cafés and bookstores that make for excellent meet-up points. Berkeley is the perfect Bay Area getaway.

Sacramento offers travelers everything they could need from a major city but without the hustle and cost of some of California's more popular names.

The Capital of California, Sacramento offers travelers the convenience of its international airport as well as its lovely restaurants and fun neighborhoods. 

Sacramento has an entertaining nightlife scene as well as a beautiful farmer's market and wonderful arts for travelers looking for something at a different pace. Sacramento really does have a little bit of something for everyone.

• The Ultimate Guide To Seeing Sacramento Like A Local

Sacramento, the capital of California, and its Greater Sacramento area offer travelers much in the way of a stunning metropolis, a history dating back to the Gold Rush, and wonderful weather consisting of mostly sunny days.

Like much of California, Greater Sacramento is known as an escape into excellent weather. With local attractions along the nearby American and Sacramento Rivers, there is a great deal for travelers to enjoy much of the year.

With many local attractions bringing travelers to the Sacramento and Greater Sacramento area, there is a lot to enjoy about the area.

With more than just the popular attractions, there are many hidden gems in this city too. Travelers will have a great time visiting Greater Sacramento.

• Explore Greater Sacramento: The Ultimate Travel Guide On Things To Do In & Around

The second-largest city in the US is a wide sprawling metropolis that has become synonymous with American entertainment and culture.

Los Angeles, the "City of Angels" is the home and dream location of many looking to enjoy the city's incredible weather. This city has become world-famous as one of the most iconic American locations, the home of Hollywood, and many of the rich and famous.

Travelers come from all over to enjoy what Los Angeles has to offer.

LA is known as the city of dreams and many come to try to make them here. With so many incredible and diverse attractions, popular nightlife, and a busy dining scene, Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for many travelers.

• 17 Things To Do In Los Angeles: Complete Guide To Exploring LA & Southern California

Travelers looking to experience the California dream should look no further than Santa Barbara. This city sits aesthetically along California’s iconic Route 1. 

The beautiful stretch of coastline that this city encompasses is among the most eye-catching in the state. Every year, travelers come here in droves to enjoy its luxurious accommodations as well as the city's white sands.

More than just a place to enjoy resorts and beaches, Santa Barbara is surrounded by wonderful natural places to discover too. This city truly is the gem of the California coast.

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Things To Do In Beachy Santa Barbara

Travelers have so much to look forward to during a trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea. A top weekend getaway, this city has so much for visitors to enjoy.

Boasting a unique culinary scene and beautiful locations such as its gardens to wander through, travelers might forget about the shopping opportunities here too.

Carmerl-by-the-Sea has the added benefit of being incredibly walkable with little need for much else than shoes to explore this aesthetic city.

Travelers will love discovering the stunning homes and luxury resorts of the area. What isn't to love about the beaches, art galleries, a fantastic wine that this city has to offer?

Travelers visiting San Diego can look forward to days and days of endless sunshine, pristine beaches, water that's perfect for swimming, and even a hip craft beer scene.

San Diego is famous across the US for having some of the best weather that can be found in the country. Likely because of this, the local community is quite outdoorsy, and the city has numerous outdoor events. 

Travelers looking to enjoy the cuisine of the city will be treated to some of the best Mexican food in the US as well as delicious local seafood. Travelers will always be able to find an excuse for a getaway to San Diego.

• See San Diego Like A Local: The Ultimate Travel Guide

The stunning land-locked oasis is an idyllic retreat for those looking to relax in comfort in the Colorado Desert. Temperatures here can average 90 °F (32 °C) to 100 °F (38 °C) for much of the year.

Palm Springs is full of swimming pools, palm trees, and ways to cool off and enjoy the desert, turning it into a must-visit destination for entertainment, luxury, and access to the surrounding desert.

The area of Palm Springs actually expands past its city and includes Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella.

This naturally aesthetic valley offers up incredible hiking and biking trails for outdoor adventurers. The area is also home to vibrant nightlife, shopping districts, museum, and theaters the mean that travelers will never be bored in Palm Springs.

• Fancy & Coachella-Famous: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Palm Springs & Things To Do

Santa Cruz, California, may not be as glamorous as its neighbors San Francisco or Los Angeles, but it still draws in thousands of visitors each year.

Located on the Central Coast of California, this destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor activities. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, picturesque coastline, and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which is regarded as the world’s best seaside park. However, there's much more to Santa Cruz than just sun, sand, and surf. 

The city boasts a rich history, from the Spanish missions to the counterculture of the 1960s, and it is home to world-renowned attractions such as the Natural Bridges State Beach, and the Seymour Marine Discovery Center.

Whether one is a first-time visitor or a regular this charming city always has an unforgettable experience to offer. 

• Surf, Sand & Sun: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Santa Cruz & Things To Do

Washington State is the most northwestern state, until Alaska, in the US. The State is home to towering mountains, high plains, lush temperate rainforests, and waterways teeming with sea life.

Seattle is the largest city in the state and sits sandwiched between Puget Sound and Lake Washington. With its multiple waterfronts, Seattle enjoys incredible access to the surrounding waterways and is a popular hub for ferrying to other parts of the Pacific Northwest.

High mountain sky areas, such as Crystal Mountain, draw skiers and borders, while miles of hiking trails through the Olympic and Cascade mountains are a hiker's dream. Even from the center of Seattle, nature is never too far away in Washington State.

The lovely Bavarian town of Leavenworth is modeled on a German Bavarian village theme. This city found 117 miles east of Seattle is a popular place to visit four seasons out of the year. With incredible terrain and natural places to explore, the city is a popular place to visit for both summer sports and winter sport-loving travelers.

This city features a stunning backdrop of aesthetic mountains, glacial lakes, and rivers. Leavenworth is also home to several wonderful wineries. Every season of every year, travelers are venturing to Leavenworth from Seattle. Travelers have much to look forward to in this bucket list mountain escape.

• More Than Holiday Celebrations: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Leavenworth & Things To Do

Seattle's Capital has a bit of a quieter name than its counterpart, Seattle, the state's major city and its surrounding area.

Found to the south of Seattle, Olympia sits as the threshold into the Olympic Peninsula. This important city offers travelers a big city feel similar but unique in its own ways to its counterpart to the north. 

Olympia boasts the title of one of the best places to live in the US and is the home to just over 58,000 people. With the ease of access to both Puget Sound and much of the Olympic Peninsula, it's no wonder this city has grown as a tourist destination.

Olympia is also home to wonderful historic attractions as well as its natural attractions that are a major draw to this lovely city.

• 10 Things To Do In Olympia: Complete Guide To Washington State's Capital

Seattle boasts one of the most iconic skylines of American Cities with its unique attractions such as the Space Needle that make it unique. Also, nothing beats catching the sun setting over the city and how the glow of the city reflects off Puget Sound, or how the mountains appear in the distance. This lovely city enjoys incredible natural surroundings.

Seattle may be known as the center for coffee culture however is also a wonderful destination to explore other avenues of this city's culture such as music and dining. With parks, historical sites, and much more to keep travelers occupied, Seattle is quite the city to visit.

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Seattle: How To Get Around & Where To Stay

Travelers may first think of the major Canadian city when they hear the name Vancouver, however, there is also a small city in southern Washington right at the state's border with Oregon and Portland.

This gem of a city serves as the threshold into Portland for many traveling down from Seattle as well as a bastion for some of the best tourist locations in the entire area.

Travelers passing through Vancouver will discover that it is much more than just a small town to drive through. Vancouer is full of wonderful attractions that include the Columbia River and Vancouver lake which is popular for hiking fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming. Travelers will love visiting Vancouver, Washington.

• Scenic Sightseeing: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Vancouver, Washington & Things To Do

Travelers looking for the most accessible mountain escape from Seattle should look no further than Snoqualmie. This town rests in the Cascades off of I-90 and serves as the go-to getaway for the residents of Seattle and western Washington.

During the summer this area becomes popular with those looking to soak up the lovely surrounding nature of the city via hiking trail exploration of its famous waterfall.

In the winter skiers flock to Snoqualmie to enjoy the winter sports offered by the area. This mountain escape is both accessible and incredibly worth the trip.

• A Natural PNW Beauty: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Snoqualmie & Things To Do

Sitting directly west of Seattle, barely detached from the Olympic Peninsula, is Bainbridge Island. Overlooked by both the Cascades and the Olympic Mountains, while surrounded by the waterways of the sound, Bainbridge Island is a nature lovers' dream while being just a 35-minute ferry from Seattle.

More than just a destination for nature lovers, the city is also home to beautiful museums, parks, and restaurants. All travelers will find something to appreciate about this city.

This small-town island getaway is incredibly accessible and is a place that travelers should take advantage of and pay a visit to. Travelers will find no lack of adventure in Bainbridge, Washington.

• 10 Things To Do On Bainbridge Island: Complete Guide To Washington's Nature-Lover's Paradise

Perhaps most famously and frequently referenced in a certain Vampire novel, Port Angeles is a lovely city tucked into the edge of the Olympic Mountains as they descend into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. This city serves as a gateway to the ever-popular Olympic National Park. The park is home to beautiful and unique ecosystems that draw travelers every year looking to explore them.

With numerous scenic outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered outside the city, travelers might forget that Port Angeles is full of wonder accommodations and great dining options as they are used to entertaining visitors.

Travelers won't find a better escape than a trip to Port Angeles and adventure both on land and on water.

• Gateway To The Pacific Coast: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Port Angeles & Things To Do

When most travelers think about Nevada, their first thoughts usually jump to Las Vegas and perhaps deserts, as Nevada has quite a bit of desert.

The Desert landscape that covers much of Nevada is not without incredible destinations to explore. Many of the parks that preserve the wilderness of Nevada are full of life and are incredible destinations to explore. Nevada also shares Lake Tahoe with California and is home to some of the lake's most stunning coastline.

Cities like Las Vegas draw thousands every year, and smaller cities like Reno, the biggest little city in the world, are also incredible tourist draws. Nevada is one of the most sought-after destinations in the US.

Found in the deserts of Southern Nevada, about a 30-minute drive from Las Vegas, Boulder City is a historic town that has much for travelers to discover.  Boulder City is likely most famously known for its dam, the Hoover Dam. The dam provides work to those living in the city and power to much of the surrounding area.

Travelers visiting this city will enjoy its classic mix of 1930s architecture and an incredible variety of shops and restaurants. With gambling not allowed here, Boulder City enjoys a much slower pace than its neighbor, Las Vegas. This city is full of adventure and a great place to spend a couple of days enjoying the landscape and the town's relaxing atmosphere.

• Back In Boulder City: The Ultimate Travel Guide & Things To Do There

Travelers looking to explore the American southwest, particularly Nevada, will have numerous destinations to choose from. Not quite as busy as Las Vegas, Henderson is the second-largest city in the state, it boasts plenty of ways for travelers to entertain themselves. A popular alternative from Sin City, Travelers will have a great time traveling through with either friends or family.

Locations such as Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and its own thriving art, culture, leisure, shopping, and food scenes are all easily accessible from Henderson making it the perfect southwestern escape.

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Henderson & Things To Do For Families, Friends, & Solo Travelers

Travelers looking for the biggest little city in the world have come to the right place. Reno isn't just a popular destination for travelers looking to dive into the city’s casinos and nightlife. However, Reno is also a great destination for exploring nature. Reno offers access to some incredible natural sights in the surrounding area. One of these sights includes the beautiful Lake Tahoe.

Travelers, looking to visit Reno, have much they can look forward to. The city is easy to navigate with many fun venues and much to both and outside of it. Travelers will love traveling to Reno.

• 10 Things To Do In Reno: Complete Guide To The Biggest Little City In The World

Travelers are likely already well aware of what the major draws to Las Vegas are. Sin City is the gambling and vice capital of the United States. It has a deep and fascinating history that led to what it has become.

With a catchphrase like, "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" it is no wonder that travelers venture from all over to let it all out on the streets of Vegas. Vegas also offers up an incredible range of options for travelers staying in the city. They can both look forward to incredible resort-casinos at great value and budget accommodation. There is something for everyone in this incredible city.

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Las Vegas: Knowing Sin City's Best Tips & Tricks

Nevada is known for cities like the larger-than-life Las Vegas or the smaller Reno, but destinations like Carson City tend to fly under the radar of travelers. However, this city on the western border of the state has one important role; it’s the capital of the state.

Carson City may be small — it only has a population of about 60,000 people — but it’s a key part of Nevada, with a history that goes back to the silver-rush era. History lovers are enthralled by how much there is to learn here, at sites like the Nevada State Museum, the Nevada State Prison Museum, and the Nevada State Railroad Museum.

Still, those who prefer to stick to present times can enjoy Carson City’s natural beauty by visiting Carson River Park, which is found on the banks of the eponymous river, or heading to one of the beaches along Lake Tahoe.

Alamo, nestled in the heart of Nevada's Pahranagat Valley, is a hidden oasis with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Its strategic location along the historic Pony Express route has contributed to its growth as a quaint town in the American Southwest.

Today, Alamo is home to just over 1000 residents, and it serves as a gateway to the nearby natural wonders.

Visitors to Alamo are greeted by picturesque landscapes, including the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge and the Extraterrestrial Highway, both offering unique experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. The town also boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in its historic buildings.

This charming town is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. 

• Nature Lovers In Nevada: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Alamo & Things To Do

Home to the Grand Canyon, incredible red-stone formations, happening cities like Phoenix and Tucson, and spiritual retreats like Sedona. Those that dwell in the northern US have a tendency to flock south to the state during the winter to enjoy the incredible weather and consistent climate that Arizona offers.

Outdoorsy adventures always find something to do in the state with the miles of trails available to explore and inspiring destinations that will take travelers' breaths away. A trip to Arizona is one traveler will remember forever. 

Tucson, Arizona, offers everything travelers dream about when they dream of visiting Arizona. This lovely city is known as a college town and a winter escape. However, travelers can look forward to much more than that in this incredible city.

With numerous outdoor venues, Tucson is a must-visit destination for outdoor lovers. This city is easy to stay in and convenient to navigate with many great places in the city for travelers to explore. Travelers who know when best to arrive in Tucson are able to doge the crowds too.

• Tucked Away In Tucson: The Ultimate Travel Guide & Things To Do There

Often referred to as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff, Arizona is that and so much more. Flagstaff truly is the threshold to the best natural sights and locations that can be found in Arizona. Flagstaff enjoys incredible access to Coconino National Forest and incredible natural sights like Walnut Canyon and Oak Creek Canyon. The Grand Canyon is also easy to get to with all the well-known sites that travelers know about.

Flagstaff is full of many natural wonders. The city itself is amazing to explore with its great accommodations and dining options. Flagstaff truly is a bucket-list location that travelers will want to go back to again and again.

• Finding Fun In Flagstaff: The Ultimate Travel Guide & Things To Do There

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a four-season destination that has something to offer travelers all year. Found to the east of the state's capital, Phoenix, This city has become a popular escape from the city. Scottsdale is full of a beautiful array of golf courses and spa resorts. With its incredible and regular weather, Scottsdale is a go-to destination for those looking to escape the winter weather. This historic and vibrant city also offers ease of access to some of Arizona's top attractions, Sedona and The Grand Canyon.

• Luxury, Spas, Scenery, & More: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Scottsdale & Things To Do

The third-largest city in Arizona, Mesa is found on the outskirts of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. This city isn't only a popular place to travel to but a popular one to live in. Its 500,000 residents enjoy great weather with more than 300 days of sunshine in a year. With all these sunny days, Mesa draws many winter travelers and those that just don't want to deal with winter anymore. 

This city offers travelers great access to Tonto National Forest and Sonoran making it the ultimate desert playground. In the nature surrounding this city, travelers can discover historical sites and beautiful rock formations on the incredible desert landscape. This city is also home to the famous Fresh Foodie Trail, which just about everyone can enjoy!

• See What's So Special About Mesa: The Ultimate Travel Guide & Things to Do There

Who wouldn't want to escape to the sunniest city on earth, especially in the midst of a northern winter? Yuma is known as the true Southwest as it serves as the gateway to the Great South West. With a Guinness World Record for having sunshine for more than 90% of the year, those looking to enjoy outdoor sports are unlikely to find a better destination. This city also offers travelers great access to the Sonoran Desert.

With Colorado flowing through this city, it creates many recreation opportunities for travelers looking to enjoy water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and boating. Inside the city, travelers can look forward to incredible accommodations, historical sites, parks, and various shopping outlets.

• Exploring Southwest Arizona: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Yuma & Things To Do

Travelers venture to Arizona every year to enjoy its incredible weather, stunning landscape, great weather, and its beautiful cities. Lake Havasu City is perhaps the most lovely city of them all with its sprawling resort community and its mix of aesthetic waterways and never-ending sunshine. Three hours from Phoenix and two hours from Las Vegas, Lake Havasu City is a go-to escape from both destinations.

This young city was only just established in 1963 when miners speculating for gold and silver settled it to serve as a military site. However, the city changed course drastically under the influence of industrialist Robert McCulloch who turned the city into a vacation resort destination. With such access to the surrounding nature, its resorts, and endless adventures.

• 10 Things To Do In Lake Havasu City: Complete Guide To This Desert Oasis

Travelers looking to visit Phoenix in the Valley of the Sun will have access to some of the most sought-after destinations in Arizona and the Southwest of the United States. Not only is this city full of sunshine, but it is also broiling over with culture, stunning mountains, and endless aesthetic deserts. Exploring the landscape that surrounds this city is on many bucket lists. It is also a great way to discover the gorgeous desert animals that live here.

Phoenix may be a dream vacation for outdoor adventures, but the city is also welcoming to those who simply want to enjoy its weather and downtown. Phoenix has many great accommodations, foodie scene, and interesting things to do at every hour of the day or night.

• 14 Things To Do In Phoenix: Complete Guide To Exploring Arizona's Capital

Home to the beautiful Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, is a beautiful city to the east of Phoenix that has the relaxed atmosphere of a college town but with many of the amenities of a tourist destination. With its consistent weather, this city is also a popular escape for those in the northern states.

With great access to famous natural locations in Arizona and numerous commercial accommodations, Tempe is quite the popular destination for outdoor lovers traveling through Arizona.

• Travel To Tempe: The Ultimate Travel Guide & Things To Do There

The Hawaiian Islands sit 2,400 miles off the west coast of the continental US. Comprised of 137 islands in total, covering 6,423 square feet, Hawaii is arguably the most aesthetic location in any part of the US. Once described by Mark Twain as, "the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean."

Hawaii is a draw that attracts far more than Americans. Many come from across the globe to enjoy the pristine shores, stunning volcanoes, and happening metropolitan areas of Hawaii.

Travelers will discover the capital of Hawaii on Oahu's southern shore. Honolulu is one of the busiest cities in the states and a popular destination from all over the world. With its international airport, lovely resorts, and incredibly fun downtown, many travelers visiting Hawaii never leave this incredible city.

Travelers have likely seen images of the city's famous crescent beach with its palm trees and high-rise hotels. However, there is plenty for travelers to discover among the natural beauty that surrounds this city. Visiting Honolulu is a bucket-list dream for many that should absolutely be made a reality.

• The Ultimate Guide To Honolulu: Everything You Need To Know

Idaho sits quickly in the northwestern US bordered by coastal states like Washington and Oregon and nestled against other mountainous states such as Montana, Wyoming, and Utah, with desert-filled Nevada to Idaho's south. This state is home to 30 state parks and even a 270-foot sand dune that travelers will be able to sled down. The state is even home to soothing hot springs that travelers can relax in. Idaho may be home to incredible natural sites, but that isn't all it is. The state is home to numerous museums and galleries and its cities like Boise are growing in popularity. This isn't just for the university, but also as a place where many young adults choose to live. Idaho, quiet as it may be, is secretly a happening destination and less secretly one of the most wondrous and aesthetic destinations to travel to in the United States of America.

Coeur d'Alene

Travelers looking for the perfect family getaway for those looking to escape to northern Idaho should check out Coeur d'Alene. This lovely city is popular for its incredible outdoor activities, watersports, and cruises along its waterfront. This city is also famous for its wonderful and aesthetic golf resorts as well as its great hiking and biking trails.

Inside the city, travelers will discover many wonderful spots inside the city including great cafés, restaurants, and wineries. The city is also home to the Museum of North Idaho. This is perhaps the best family vacation city travelers will find in the Pacific Northwest.

Travelers making their way through Idaho will love stopping by the state's capital, Boise. This lovely city is famous for its surrounding national forests and the aesthetic Boise River that cuts its way through the city creating a beautiful and scenic waterfront. There are many beautiful hiking trails found around the city and stunning sites along the Boise River Greenbelt.

The city has garnered a new influx of travelers, they have brought growth to the city including a growing number of trendy bars, cafés, and restaurants, especially in the downtown area. Boise also now features a fun nightlife that offers travelers looking to experience the city's nature a way to enjoy their nights. Travelers will have a great time in this scenic city!

• Explore Idaho's Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Boise & Things To Do

This small city in northern Idaho is home to just over 9000 residents, however, travelers will never find a shortage in what Sandpoint has to offer. This city is home to the lovely natural beauty that surrounds the city. Found at the bottom of the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains and sharing a border with Lake Pend Oreille, the largest lake in the state, Sandpoint has many wonders for travelers to discover.

Travelers make their way to this city in droves during the winter and summer. The area is great for both winter and summer sports with local mountains and waterways that are great for exploring in any season. Travelers looking for a beautiful location in northern Idaho will love Sandpoint.

• 10 Things To Do In Sandpoint: Complete Guide To The City Between Mountain Ranges

Travelers exploring southern Idaho will love taking a stop at this modest city of just 50,000. Twin Falls is home to lovely landscapes and natural wonders that are perfect for outdoor adventures. The town is quite close to the aesthetic Shoshone Falls! Travelers usually make their way to the city to enjoy its enticing beauty and what it offers for outdoor adventure. 

Travelers looking for outdoor activities have arrived in the correct city with numerous fun-packed adventures nearby for travelers to discover. Some of these activities include rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and base jumping. Twin Falls, Idaho, is a nature lovers' paradise and an absolute must-visit.

• Unmistakable Natural Beauty: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Twin Falls & Things to Do

A small town in northern Idaho, Moscow has little else than having cold winters in common with its Russian counterpart. This lovely town is the home of the University of Idaho and its aesthetic campus which add a wonderful charm to the city. The campus is home to galleries and gardens that travelers will love exploring. 

Located in southwestern Idaho, the city enjoys the ease of access to locations in both Oregon and Washington State. This town is home to lovely rolling green hills that are beautiful to explore. In the winter, wintersports are another draw to the region. Moscow is a truly beautiful city that travelers should consider spending some time in.

This lovely city is located at the junction of the beautiful Clearwater River and the Snake River. Lewiston isn't a large city with a population close to 35,000, but it is an excellent starting point for travelers looking to visit Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. The area of Hells Canyon is stunning to explore and offers travelers incredible vistas.

Sitting at the base of Lewis Clark Valley, there are numerous outdoor activities to be found not far from down. Travelers visiting Lewiston often enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing boating along the Clearwater and Snake rivers. The city itself takes care of its visitors with great accommodations and wonderful dining.

• Local Culture & History: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Lewiston & Things To Do

Idaho Falls is a scenic city found in southeastern Idaho along the Snake River. This lovely city is full of enticing outdoor adventure and is full of wonder centers of art, history, and various dining locations. Travelers will have a wonderful time in this city regardless of whether they are just making a day trip or looking to spend additional time exploring the local sights, they will have a great time in Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls is also quite close to many of the parks in the region, making it a popular stop for those road-tripping to the parks. The city is just a few hours from Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Jackson Hole. This city is full of adventure making it the perfect stop for outdoor lovers.

Located between the state's capital, Boise to the east, and ever popular Nampa, to the west, Travelers might make the mistake of overlooking Idaho's second-largest city, Meridian. The city sits at the center of the lovely Treasure Valley with many lovely locations to explore. Meridian is one of the fastest-growing city's in the US, and it will be easy for travelers to see why. This city has a little bit of everything from a fun downtown and collections of shops to its lovely natural surroundings.

Travelers will love stopping by this up-and-coming city that is home to the biggest waterpark in the Northwest. This city makes for the perfect family vacation.

• Up & Coming: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Meridian & Things To Do

Oregon may be most famous for lovely shots of mountainous backdrops behind aesthetic cities and stunning locations like Mount Hood where travelers flock too year-round to enjoy the mountain's incredible natural beauty. Cities like Portland are well-known across the United States for being truly beautiful cities with huge expanses of green space, from parks and forests to breathtaking mountaintops seen in the distance. 

Portland also has a popular local craft brewery scene. Each brewery in the city offers something unique, from heady black beers to organic IPAs. Away from Portland and on the other side of those mountains, Oregon is also home to its high plains which were famously used to film numerous westerns. Regardless of what travelers are looking for, they are sure to find it in Oregon.

Salem offers travelers a much more modest atmosphere than its counterpart, Portland, 46 miles to the north. Travelers can look forward to everything that makes Oregon a popular destination without the crowds. Salem is the home of charming garden spaces, orchards, vineyards, and sprawling mountains. It has been referred to as the "Garden Capital of Oregon" for reasons that become obvious to all who visit.

The city has a proud cycling culture with many ways for travelers to get around without a car. There are many attractions in this city including is historic downtown, local farms, incredible markets, and the lovely Willamette River. Travelers will love stopping by Salem, Oregon.

• 15 Things To Do In Salem: Complete Guide To Oregon's Iconic Small Town

Travelers will love stopping by this charming Mayberry town found in heart of Oregon. Redmond has a unique vibe that helps it stand out in the Beaver State. Richmond has received the popular nickname, "the hub of Central Oregon," not only because of its location but because it is the destination for many of the area's festivals and fairs where it brings together its lovely community.

One of Redmond's main draws is its aesthetic landscape that spread inspiringly across the high desert plateau the city was built. Redmond is popular both in the summer and in winter as it offers lovers of both seasons great ways to spend their time. Also, the city itself is quite welcoming to visitors with its relaxing coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries.

• The Hub Of Central Oregon: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Redmond & Things To Do

Bend, Oregon, has become quite the high mountain destination for those looking to escape into Oregon's Cascade Mountains. Once a logging town during the 1900s, this city has grown into quite an inviting tourist destination with a great variety of outdoor sports such as mountain biking, fishing, hiking, camping, rock climbing, rafting, skiing, golfing, and much more. In the winter, those that love winter outdoor adventure still make the trip.

Bend offers travelers visiting it in the winter some of the most inspiring how mountain vistas, waterfalls, and waterways. This peaceful and beautiful destination should be on every traveler's bucket list who wants to get the best out of the mountains of Oregon.

• Outdoor Enthusiasts Only: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Bend & Things To Do

Utah may be landlocked, but that doesn't mean that it doesn't have whatever travelers are looking for. With 12,000 years of human history, the surrounding landscape of the area offers an important connection to the past. Utah is also home to some of the best golf courses in the US as well as beaches along the Great Salt Lake. During the winter months, travelers flock from all over to enjoy the many ski slopes that the state has to offer.  Utah has been the home of must-visit locations such as Zion National Park, Arches National Park, and much more. Travelers looking for an adventure are sure to find it in this incredible state.

The most southern City in Utah, St. George offers travelers a wonderful big city escape with access to some of the region's most wonderful attractions. This city serves as the threshold to some of the region's most famous sites including Snow Canyon State Park and Zion National Park. Travelers will find no shortage of outdoor adventure in St. George, Utah.

Inside the city, travelers will find that St. George is well-equipped to entertain travelers with wonderful dining and accommodations. On days travelers just want to stay in the city, they can check out family-friendly sites including the St George Children’s Museum and St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm.

But the city also strives to keep its visitors entertained within its limits.

• Hikers, Bikers, & Trail Trekkers: The Ultimate Travel Guide To St. George & Things To Do

Well known as one of the most popular winter destinations in Utah, Park City is home to many of the state's most famous ski resorts. This incredible mountain also boasts a great deal of charm with its lovely downtown that is home to great dining, cafés, and ways to relax after a day on the slopes. When the town warms up over the winter, that activity shifts as more and more travelers come to explore its hiking trails, and outdoor venues as well as to spend more time walking along its historic Main Street.

Regardless of whether travelers want to enjoy Park City's slopes during the winter or fantastic outdoor adventures in the summer, they will find what they're looking for in this famous city.

Cedar City, Utah, is anything but a big city, but that doesn't stop hordes of travelers from flocking here each year. With incredible access to Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park, many travelers use Cedar City as their access point, that's not even mentioning the five other nearby parks in Utah. However, this city is far more than just a pit stop.

Those passing through Cedar City have much to look forward to. The town is home to many fun festivals that are frequent enough to have earned the city the name, Festival City. Cedar City is a truly wonderful destination for travelers to explore.

Ogden may not enjoy the buzz of other Utah ski towns, but it really should as it is truly a gem with access to some of Northern Utah's best skiing. With proximity to the like-named mountain, Mt. Ogden, and with access to both De Moisy and Nordic Valley, Ogden has incredible slopes that can be enjoyed without the crowds of areas such as Park City. 

Ogden isn't just a winter paradise. It is also a popular destination with summer travelers who enjoy hiking and mountain biking through its incredible terrain. Once travelers experience the incredible vistas around this city in summer, they will understand why travelers make their way here every year.

• Small City, Big Scenery: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Ogden & Things To Do

New Mexico is one of the most popular places in the US to visit with more than 35 million visitors per year. New Mexico offers travelers a little bit of everything while in a pleasantly dry climate perfect for all sorts of activities. The landscape of New Mexico is truly stunning with its sweeping desert landscape. Its Cities are vibrant centers with crowded marketplaces and lively tourist districts where travelers can enjoy themselves. Some of the incredible attractions to surround New Mexico include Carlsbad Caverns National Park, with its underground tunnels that stretch for miles, and White Sands National Monument, an incredible 275-mile stretch of white sand dunes. Travelers will have many wonders to discover in New Mexico.

Albuquerque, New Mexico, is famous for more than just being hard to spell. The city is the largest in New Mexico and is known as the world's hot-air ballooning capital. The city also just so happens to be the birthplace of the breakfast burrito and the home to many gorgeous beaches. It's no wonder that this city has become both a popular place to live and travel to.

The area around this 300-year-old city is full of incredibly rich history with a lovely Old Town where centuries-old adobe structures still stand. Travelers can check out the Chaco Culture National Historic Park to learn even more about the city's past. Albuquerque is a true gem in New Mexico and is a fun-loving destination with nearby ski resorts for the winter and great hiking and biking opportunities in the summer. Travelers will love visiting Albuquerque.

• Largest In New Mexico: The Ultimate Guide To Albuquerque & Things To Do

Perhaps most famous for the alleged encounters with extraterrestrials, the city of Roswell, New Mexico, has fully run with its association with aliens. The town is full of life-sized cut-outs of alien craft and green men. There are even cutouts of locals trying to impress them with pie. Roswell isn't just a popular destination for those who want to learn more about the infamous "Roswell Incident", it is also simply a great place to have fun. 

Located off Highway 285, Roswell is plenty family-friendly with loads of alien-inspired activities to entertain both parents and adults. Roswell inspires fun and wonder and travelers from all over. The city has fully embraced the wacky, the weird, and all the wonderful that comes from being a destination for alien adventure.

• 18 Things To Do In Roswell: Complete Guide To This Extraterrestrial Hotspot

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Carlsbad, found on the banks of the Pecos River in southeastern New Mexico, often goes unnoticed in comparison to its more famous New Mexico counterparts like Santa Fe or Albuquerque.

Those who venture to this captivating town are rewarded with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1888. Carlsbad's past is marked by its significance in the cattle industry and the discovery of rich mineral deposits, including potash and oil.

Today, this destination is a thriving community with a population of over 30,000, offering a blend of natural wonders, history, and culture. The renowned Carlsbad Caverns National Park, with its awe-inspiring caves and diverse wildlife, is a must-see for nature lovers.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park showcases the unique flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert. This hidden New Mexico gem promises an unforgettable experience for visitors.

• Caverns & Caves: The Ultimate Guide To Carlsbad & Things To Do

Alamogordo, New Mexico, holds a unique position in American history as the site of the first atomic bomb test in 1945. In fact, the city's proximity to the Trinity Site and the White Sands Missile Range makes it an intriguing destination for those fascinated by science and history.

Alamogordo's charming downtown area showcases its rich heritage, with attractions such as the New Mexico Museum of Space History and the Toy Train Depot.

Though small, with a population of around 30,000, Alamogordo offers a diverse array of activities for visitors. The city is tucked between the Sacramento Mountains and White Sands National Park, providing ample opportunities for outdoor lovers to explore the breathtaking landscape.

Whether a visitor is interested in learning about the origins of the atomic age, stargazing at the local observatory, or hiking through the pristine dunes, this New Mexican city is bound to fascinate its tourists.

• Gateway To White Sands: The Ultimate Guide to Alamogordo & Things To Do

Santa Fe, the enchanting capital of New Mexico, has long been a hub for art and culture, with its roots dating back to the early 1600s. This historic city lies on the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and it is renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant art scene.

Unlike bustling metropolises such as Los Angeles or New York, Santa Fe maintains a quaint charm with a population of just over 80,000. Visitors are drawn to its rich heritage, exemplified by landmarks like the Palace of the Governors, the New Mexico Museum of Art, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.

Beyond history and art, Santa Fe offers so much more within its borders, from outdoor adventures to culinary delights. 

• Where History Meets Art: The Ultimate Guide To Santa Fe & Things To Do

Montana has long been known for having some of the most incredible natural beauty of any US State. The state contains the stunning transition of land from the Rocky Mountains to the Northern Plains. Parts of Yellowstone National Park cross over into Montana with the state being home to some of the most incredible wildlife in the US. Montana bares the name, The Treasure State, and it becomes obvious why to any that travels through it.

The stunning transition of land from Big Sky Country to the Missouri River and the nearly endless plains stretch from the state across much of the US. Montana is a nature lovers' dream and thousands flock here every year. 

Found in southwestern Montana, Butte once began as a lucrative source of gold, silver, and copper, with the nickname, "Richest Hill on Earth." Today, Butte is more well known as a stunning escape into the beauty of Montana's southwestern countryside. Its lovely Victorian buildings are another draw to the city. Its Uptown District has grown into a popular tourist destination as well.

Travelers often make use of Butte as one of their stops on their way to major parks such as Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. However, the town is far more than just a stopover with much to offer visiting travelers. Travelers will love their stay in this aesthetic city in southwestern Montana.

• A Former Mining Town: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Butte & Things To Do

Montana is perhaps the most naturally beautiful state in the US, and there is no better place to start exploring it than in Helena, the state's capital. Helena offers travelers access to incredible Rocky Mountain beauty, and it is home to 75 well-marked trails that are perfect for outdoor adventurers to explore. Travelers come from all over to hike, mountain bike, and backpack through the incredible local wilderness. 

While in the city itself, travelers can enjoy the stunning architecture that dates back to the gold rush in the late 1800s. Today, many shops and restaurants have filled the town. They are the perfect locations for travelers to relax after a long day of outdoor adventure.

• Explore The Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Helena Montana

Travelers may mostly know Livingston as a gateway to nearby Yellowstone National Park, but this little gem found in Montana's Paradise Valley is good of a destination to breeze past. Travelers visiting Livingston will be able to look forward to the town's incredible local fishing, hiking, and camping. 

The town was founded in 1882 and has an interesting history with much old western charm still to be found in the city's downtown. The city isn't just a place for outdoor adventure either. Travelers can discover the city's incredible galleries, museums, shops, and architecture that tells the city's story.

• 10 Things To Do In Livingston: Complete Guide To The Jewel Of Yellowstone County

Nestled in Southern Montana, Bozeman is one of the state’s most popular cities. It has made a name for itself as a destination for lovers of the outdoors thanks to its location in the Rocky Mountains. This makes Bozeman attractive to skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in winter, as well as mountain biking and hiking lovers in the warmer months. The nearby Gallatin National Forest is the perfect place for those who enjoy spending time in nature.

This destination is also known as the home of the Museum of the Rockies, which boasts one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. Bozeman’s downtown area is another gem in the city, with a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment spots that make it a fun place to be.

Billings, Montana's largest city, boasts a rich history and a breathtaking natural landscape as it’s found beneath the Rimrocks and is surrounded by several mountain ranges.

As the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, Billings offers an array of outdoor adventures, from hiking to fishing. Learn about the city's past at the Western Heritage Center or the Yellowstone County Museum, where visitors can find out about the region's Native American and pioneer history. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Yellowstone Art Museum, which showcases contemporary and regional works.

For wildlife admirers, the nearby ZooMontana provides a chance to encounter different animal species. Foodies can experience the city's diverse culinary scene at the wide range of dining spots and local breweries.

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Missoula is a hidden gem in Montana with a rich history that includes stories of the Native Americans and European fur traders. After the Northern Pacific Railroad arrived in 1883, this city became an important transport hub, leading to its growth to its present-day status.

History buffs can learn about this history at sites like the preserved Fort Missoula, which played a crucial role during the Indian Wars and World War II. Missoula is also home to the University of Montana, a renowned learning institution with students who contribute to Missoula’s vibrant atmosphere.

Today, this destination is regarded more as a haven for outdoor recreation. Missoula's breathtaking natural beauty offers opportunities for enjoying outdoor activities, like hiking, fishing, and skiing. 

The downtown area, with its charming streets and local shops, is appealing to visitors who want to explore and discover the mountain town’s unique character.

Many people are unfamiliar with the small town of Jackson in Montana, perhaps because it shares a name with a more prominent city in Mississippi. Montana’s version of Jackson barely has 40 people who call it home, making it one of the smallest towns in the country. 

This destination, however, is a hidden gem that’s tucked away in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, a location that offers an abundance of wildlife like elk, deer, and bears. Those who have visited have nothing but praise for the serenity in this area, an area that’s beloved by outdoor enthusiasts.

The town boasts the historic Jackson Hot Springs Lodge, which was built in the 1800s. The area is also home to the Big Hole River, which flows right through Jackson and is a popular fly-fishing spot.

• Adventures In Big Hole Valley: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Jackson MT & Things To Do

Great Falls, a city in north-central Montana, sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Sun Rivers and is surrounded by mountain ranges like the Rocky Mountains and the Little Belt Mountains.

It goes without saying that this city boasts breathtaking scenery endowed by these natural features. In fact, nature lovers love to visit this area to hike the trails in the city. 

Other attractions in Great Falls are the C.M. Russel Museum, which pays homage to artist Charles Marion Russell, who died in this city. 

Visitors can also explore Giant Springs State Park, which boasts one of the largest freshwater springs in the country. Great Falls is also home to a thriving arts scene; visitors can drop by the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art to check out the collection of contemporary and traditional art.

• Gateway To Nature: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Great Falls & Things To Do

What is there left to say about the incredible high mountain draws that his state has? Colorado is home to some of the highest mountains and the best skiing and boarding that can be found in the US. Countless travelers flock to this state's mountains every winter.

However, winter sports are far from the only reason that travelers love this state. During the warmer months of the year, the mountains become popular with hikes and mountain bikers.

Colorado is also home to must-visit cities such as Denver and Boulder. Destinations such as Rocky Mountain National Park and the smaller but quite accessible Estes National Park. This beautiful state is a bastion for outdoor adventure that travelers won't want to miss out on.

Less than an hour away from Denver, Estes Park isn't just convenient it is one of the best ways to explore the local nature of the Rocky Mountains. Sitting right next to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park offers travelers great ways to relax along with fantastic options for accommodations to make a stay here as much about outdoor adventure as it is about luxury.

This Bastion blends the incredible beauty of the natural world with the comforts of its incredible downtown and numerous locations for guests to stay. Estes park is an adventure that travelers can't miss out on, and it serves as the perfect gateway to many of the locations in Rock Mountain National Park. This truly is one of the most vacation-worthy mountain towns in Colorado.

• Gateway To The Rockies: The Ultimate Guide To Estes Park & Things To Do

Like many of Colorado's popular destinations, Crested Butte is nestled aesthetically into the state's stunning mountains. What makes this gem of an outdoor recreational center unique is the vast number of owner hikes, mountain peaks, and immersive natural experiences.  This popular Rocky Mountain vacation spot is popular for winter sports lovers looking to explore the local terrain, during the summer the beauty of this town becomes unmatched.

Travelers will love this outdoor escape found a four-hour drive from Denver. Travelers can't miss out on visiting this incredible Rocky Mountain vacation spot.

• 10 Things To Do In Crested Butte: Complete Guide To The Last Great Ski Resort Town

This lovely alternative to Denver is just an hour north of Colorado's largest city. Boulder is a must-visit destination for outdoor adventures who can explore the incredible Rocky Mountain destinations that surround this city. Inside the city, travelers will be welcomed by a fun active community full of great cafés, restaurants, breweries, and other entertaining venues.

Boulder, Colorado, is a great escape from Denver with incredible access to Rock Mountain National Park and other incredible natural wonders. Boulder enjoys a growing community of outdoor lovers and incredibly welcoming travelers.

• Heart Of The Mountains: The Ultimate Guide To Boulder & Things To Do

Colorado is full of wondrous destinations for travelers to explore such as Denver and Boulder, however, few names have the ring that Colorado Springs has. The second-largest city in the state, it was originally established as a resort town all the way back in 1871. Unlike many resort towns that eventually lose their luster, Colorado Springs has continued to thrive into its third century. 

The scenic natural beauty boasted by Colorado Springs is its primary draw with its mild climate with ample sunshine. This climate makes for the ideal location for outdoor adventure. Travelers will love exploring the incredible natural wonder of Colorado Springs. 

• Garden Of The Gods & More: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Colorado Springs

The name Vail is synonymous with skiing with numerous travelers flocking to Vail's slopes every year. This winter sports haven has remained at the top of winter sport-loving travelers' bucket lists for generation after generation.

However, it wouldn't be fair to label this town as a single-season destination. When the snow melts, Vail still sits aesthetically in the Rocky Mountains. Travelers visiting during the summer will have many fun outdoor activities to engage in and even thrill seekers can enjoy ziplining down Vail's slopes.

Vail has so much to offer travelers. It is both a winter wonderland and a summer paradise in the mountains. Travelers will never grow bored during their visit to Vail, a true must-visit Rocky Mountain dream destination.

• An Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream: The Ultimate Guide To Vail & Things To Do

Known for being both a go-to ski destination and as a picture-perfect winter destination tucked into Colorado's Rocky Mountains. The landscape surrounding Telluride is enough to make the trip even without its fantastic ski slopes found close to town. Telluride's downtown features lovely Victorian architecture and many wonderful shops and restaurants for travelers to discover.

Travelers are also welcome to visit during the summer. When the snow clears from much of the mountainside, hikes with jaw-dropping vistas open up for travelers to explore. Travelers won't be able to get enough of Telluride's natural wonder. Telluride truly is a must-visit destination tucked into the Rocky Mountains.

• 14 Things To Do In Telluride: Complete Guide To Colorado's Most Beautiful Town

Today, this town bears the name, Manitou Springs. It was named after the Great Manitou Spirit that belong to the native tribes of the area. It was said that the spirit flowed through the springs that originated in Pike's Peak, one of the area's main attractions. The springs have provided nourishment to local tribes for years. Today, many come to revel in their charm and beauty.

Travelers venture to Manitou Springs for various reasons. Many come to explore local Pikes Peak, popular with hikers and mountain climbers, and many others come to explore natural attractions like Garden of the Gods, Cave of the Winds, and Red Rock Canyon. Manitou Springs is a beautiful destination that travelers will love exploring.

Aspen is perhaps only rivaled by Vail when it comes to name recognition as a top ski destination in Colorado. Found nestled in White River National Forest, Aspen is home to surroundings that could have come from a fantasy novel, especially along its stunning sky slopes. Aspen becomes a wonderland in the winter but is also popular with outdoor adventures during the summer months. 

Many come for the premier ski resorts of Aspen and some come to explore the world-class hiking and mountain biking the area is full of. The town of Aspen itself is a lovely and cozy escape where travelers can rest and recover from their outdoor adventures. With upscale shopping and luxurious accommodations, everyone can find a way to enjoy their stay in this wondrous city.

• Not Just Skiing: The Ultimate Guide to Aspen & Things to Do

Colorado's cities are famous for being enthralling ski destinations and Steamboat Springs is no different. This little city is found in the northwestern side of the state, tucked within the Yampa Valley. Its claim to fame is the powdery snow that got the moniker champagne powder because of how fluffy it is.

This snow transforms the city into a winter wonderland and the slopes become the playground of skiing lovers. The best ski trails are found in the Steamboat ski resort, which boasts six peaks. 

When the snow thaws in warmer months, Steamboat’s skiing trails become excellent hiking routes for those who want to explore the mountains.

Steamboat Springs’ identity lies in the hot springs in the heart of the city. There are pools that take advantage of the therapeutic waters of these springs, in which locals and visitors can't resist soaking or swimming.

• Ideal Mountain Getaway: The Ultimate Guide To Steamboat Springs & Things To Do

Breckenridge is about 80 miles from Denver, and it’s seated at the foot of the Tenmile Range of the Rocky Mountains. Thanks to its location, this little city is a sought-after skiing destination that welcomes droves of visitors in winter.

However, its former life is one of a mining town during the Gold Rush era. In fact, it owes its growth to the gold deposits that earned miners a pretty penny.

Presently, this town boasts some of the best ski trails via the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Summer and fall convert the town into a warm and colorful utopia and the ski trails become hiking, biking, and horseback riding sites. 

• A City Tucked In The Mountains: The Ultimate Guide To Breckenridge & Things To Do

Gunnison is a small town that’s hidden away close to the middle of Colorado. Although it’s small and easy to miss on the map, this mountain town is worth the attention of visitors. Gunnison bombards the senses with its natural beauty, one wouldn’t know where to look first.

On one side, the peaks of the Rocky Mountains beckon, offering no shortage of skiing trails for those who enjoy this thrilling activity. The landscape is peppered with rivers (the Gunnison River, for instance), lakes, and even a canyon — Black Canyon. 

Certainly, this town, which started its life as a mining center, is a paradise for nature lovers and an unforgettable destination in spring, summer, fall, or winter.

Denver has come a long way since its gold-rush days in the late 1800s; it’s now Colorado’s largest city and the state’s capital.

Visitors can delve into this history at sites like the Molly Brown House Museum or visit the Colorado State Capitol. Today, this bustling metropolis is home to a vibrant arts scene that’s evident at sites like the Denver Art Museum or the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. 

One cannot mention a city in Colorado without talking about the scenery. Denver boasts a variety of parks within its boundaries, as well as some close by, like the spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park. Plus, this region is renowned for its ski resorts, and one need not drive too far from the city to access some of these.

• A City For Everyone: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Denver & Things To Do

Durango started its life in around 1880 as a mining town, a far cry from its present-day status as a beloved tourist destination in Colorado. This little city barely has 20,000 people who call it home, but it receives thousands of visitors from all over the world, drawn by the area’s natural beauty and the city’s small-town appeal. 

Those who want to find out about Durango’s past can take the 5-hour train ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This ride reveals the breathtaking scenery of the area as well as insights into the railroad’s history.

This region is regarded as a haven for nature lovers and activities like hiking, mountain biking, and skiing are among the most popular. The nearby San Juan National Forest is the perfect place to enjoy these activities.

• Nature Abounds: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Durango & Things To Do

Containing 96% of Yellowstone National Park taking up 3,500 square miles of the state, and nearby linked Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming is an outdoor paradise that draws numerous tourists every year. Even outside the state's famous parks, many destinations are popular for hikers, mountain bikers, anglers, backpackers, and campers. Devil's Tower is another famous site that is sacred to the natives of Wyoming.

The state's major cities of Cheyenne, Jackson, and Casper are incredibly welcoming to travelers passing through. Wyoming is the state for outdoor adventure with some of the most stunning wilderness found in the US. Outdoor adventures will love traveling through this wondrous state! 

Once a significant crossroads for pilgrims, missionaries, and gold seekers passing through Oregon, Casper has represented an escape into the wild west spirit that is still found there today. Once the destination for Mormon pilgrims, Casper became a military post for the US army.

Today, Casper is home to almost 60,000 and has become quite the destination for travelers looking to enjoy both its landscape and western fun.

Travelers visiting Casper will be able to dive into the fascinating history of the city, its culture, its numerous outdoor activities, and everything else that has made this city a must-visit destination.

Travelers can look forward to discovering delicious restaurants, staying at great accommodations, and visiting local attractions that include Yellowstone National Park, Bighorn National Forest, and Devil's Tower.

• Back To The 19th Century: The Ultimate Guide To Casper & Things To Do

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Take an epic trip along the West Coast in 2024. Here are the top 10 places to visit now

(Lettering and animation by Jacky Sheridan/For The Times; video editing by Li Anne Liew/For The Times; Storyblocks)

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I couldn’t help it. In the course of scouting out great adventures for West Coast 101 — our new guide to essential destinations in Baja, California, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia — I found myself compiling a personal top 10.

I’ll get to that list shortly. But first, an honorable mention.

Even if you’ve never seen “The Big Lebowski,” you’ve probably heard someone mention the rug that tied Lebowski’s room together . Well, Harris Ranch does that for California.

This I-5 stop for food, gas, lodging and bathrooms (not necessarily in that order) might not make anyone’s bucket list. And I’ll admit that if the wind blows the wrong way, it smells like cattle. But if you’re driving north-south through the San Joaquin Valley, which just about every Californian does sooner or later, you’re going to need to stop somewhere.

Bring this list on your adventures! Order L.A. Times’ new ‘101 Best West Coast Experiences’ zine here.

Harris Ranch faithfully awaits, 184 miles south of San Francisco and 200 miles north of L.A. City Hall, the pride of Coalinga. Over the years, I’ve pumped gas at its Shell station, slept in its comfortable hotel (no resort fee or room tax), conducted interviews in its Horseshoe Lounge, lingered over breakfast in its Ranch Kitchen (excellent) and grabbed a sandwich from its Express BBQ (adequate). I’ve even bought bonsai from Hyo Kim, who peddles delicately coiffed junipers, olive and pine trees ($25-$500) from a stand on the dirt shoulder across the street.

I’m not saying cattle ranches are good for the planet’s future — definitely not. But I’m just realizing that for about 45 years now, Harris Ranch has been the rug tying together my adventures in the vast living room that is our West Coast.

Your rug might be different. After all, these lists are subjective.

Of our 101 best West Coast experiences, these 10 resonate most for me. I’d recommend them to just about any California newbie and I’d grab at a chance to visit them again — some for basic beauty, others for the stories they tell or the memories they tie together.

Travel & Experiences

The 101 best West Coast experiences

Essential things to do, see and eat right now in California, Oregon, Washington, the Baja Peninsula and British Columbia. Ready to explore?

May 16, 2024

10. Rady Shell, San Diego

I have a hard time imagining a more pleasant place to see an outdoor concert. Well, maybe the Red Rocks Amphitheater outside Denver. But on the West Coast? I’ll take this sleek bayside shell in downtown San Diego. And I’ll try not to be resentful that nobody thought of this while I lived down there.

It’s like the Hollywood Bowl but with harbor views. 7 things to know about San Diego’s new music venue

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is now in its first summer season. See a show and make a weekend out of it.

June 10, 2022

9. Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn

Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, April 19, 2022 in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. (Nic Coury/For The Times) Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, April 19, 2022. (Nic Coury/For The Times) Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn in Santa Cruz, Calif., Tuesday, April 19, 2022. (Nic Coury/For The Times)

What are we going to do about Highway 1? Since that coast road was built on the slopes of Big Sur in the 1930s, we’ve treasured it. But as any acrophobe, geologist or engineer could tell you, those slopes crumble and slide relentlessly. Year after year, Caltrans moves mountains to keep that two-lane road navigable. Then comes another slide. Since January 2023 it’s been impossible to drive from San Simeon to Big Sur via the coastal route. (Caltrans announced partial reopening May 16. Check before you go. ) Whenever I worry about the highway, I think of Deetjen’s, which is basically a roadside time capsule clad in weathered wood. It opened about the time the highway did and won over generations of road-trippers with its rustic rooms and restaurant. Before Helmuth Deetjen died in 1972, he set up a nonprofit organization to keep the place running in old-school fashion. I’ve been stopping there since the 1980s. You have to call to make a reservation. And when you get there, you have to expect paper-thin walls along with the Norwegian woodwork, the crackle of the fireplace and the portrait of Deetjen on the wall. It’s a priceless place. And Nepenthe and the Henry Miller Memorial Library are just down the road. We just can’t take Deetjen’s or that road for granted.

12 secret stops on California’s iconic road to Big Sur

Even you’ve already done the most obvious attractions — Hearst Castle in San Simeon, for instance — why not spend more time exploring roadside nooks and ocean-adjacent crannies along Highway 1?

Oct. 20, 2022

8. Yosemite Valley

Does this need explaining? Probably not. If you’re arriving from the south, you emerge from the long, dark Wawona Tunnel to see El Capitan and Half Dome looming above a green, wet world of its own. Waterfalls roar left and right. The valley stretches for seven miles, framed by granite walls that Ansel Adams had to shoot and Alex Honnold had to climb. The Merced River meanders through. Even if you don’t have $600 to spend a night in the Ahwahnee Hotel, you can pop by for a snack, gaze up at painted rafters that go back to 1927 and warm yourself by one of the big fireplaces.

7. Venice Beach

Venice, CA - April 03: A man throughs a trick at the skate park at Venice Beach on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Venice, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times) Venice, CA - April 03: People enjoy a day at Venice Beach on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Venice, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times) Venice, CA - April 03: A man surfs at Venice Beach on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Venice, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times) (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times)

Yeah, I know. There’s plenty to lament in Venice. But when you hit that beach at the right time on the right day, it feels so emblematic of Southern California. On my last visit, the sun was just setting. My wife, Mary Frances, and I checked out the skateboarders, chatted with a few artists who were selling work along the sidewalk and did a double take at the Shul on the Beach (a.k.a. Pacific Jewish Center), an Orthodox synagogue where worshipers were just gathering for a Friday night Shabbat meal.

6. The whales of Baja’s lagoons

It’s one thing to watch migrating gray whales off the Southern California coast, standing at the rail of a big boat, looking for spouts in the distance and perhaps drawing within 100 yards. It’s something else when you’re in a panga on the waters of a southern Baja lagoon — usually Ojo de Liebre (Scammon’s) or San Ignacio. These immense creatures, the cows and and the calves, get so close sometimes, it feels intimate. And maybe a little scary. The adults weigh up to 90,000 pounds.

Joshua Tree with beaches and taquerias? No, just an epic Baja road trip

On a drive down the Baja peninsula’s Highway 1, travel writer Christopher Reynolds finds baby whales, a pond to float in and a new generation of adventurers.

March 15, 2023

5. Ferry Building and waterfront San Francisco

The Ferry Building in San Francisco, Calif., Friday, April 12, 2024. (Nic Coury / For The Times)

A couple looks at the Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Point in San Francisco. (Nic Coury / For The Times)

I’m trying to think of a more successful architectural resurrection than San Francisco’s Ferry Building. And failing. Picture that 1898 waterfront building in the 1920s, when there was no Bay Bridge and no Golden Gate Bridge and up to 50,000 people per day were commuting by ferry. The Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street was the center of the Bay Area’s nervous system. Then the bridges went up, commuters abandoned the ferries, the building was rehabbed into ugly offices and decades passed. Finally, in the aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta quake, San Francisco leaders launched a plan to revive the building. It reopened in 2003 as a foodie-oriented restaurant and retail space, a thousand times more interesting to me than the souvenir shops of Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 (although at least you get the sight and sound of sea lions there). Apart from the food, it’s got great views of the Bay Bridge. (And with luck, that bridge’s nightly light show, which went dark last year, will resume in early 2025.) I think of the Ferry Building and the Golden Gate Bridge as the bookends of the waterfront.

4. Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

I’m not a rock climber or a boulderer. But I’m a sucker for sunrises and sunsets in the desert. And when that golden-hour light hits the jumbled boulders in Hidden Valley, it’s hard to resist.

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March 9, 2022

3. Pike Place Market, Seattle

This is always the first place I want to go in Seattle, a spot where people, colors, flavors and scents all come together. I walk past the mirrored bar of the Athenian restaurant, where my buddy Rick and I had beers in 1986, my first time in town. I go down below to make sure the bubble-gum wall is still in place. I mourn at the spot where the newsstand used to be. I kick myself for failing to buy an incredibly cool cigar-box guitar from the Soul Cat Guitar guy when I had the chance. (I thought I’d have another chance at his market stall when I visited in January, but he wasn’t there that day.) I listen to buskers and eat unhealthy snacks. I stick my head in the anarchist collective bookshop ( Left Bank Books ), which has somehow lasted 51 years. And like every other tourist, I linger near the fishmongers so I can see them flinging fish and hollering at each other.

2. Capilano Bridge Suspension Park, Vancouver

On my first visit, a few years ago, it was raining and the park was packed. I wondered if the bridge would be closed. Nope. Open, and prone to slightly jiggle as I stood 230 feet above the Capilano River, surrounded by tall trees and mist. When I returned in February, it was snowing, the park was nearly empty and the bridge was still open. The vibe was part “Twin Peaks,” part “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.”

1. Badwater in Death Valley

Mike “Mish” Shedlock kayaks the calm waters of Manly Lake at sunrise in Death Valley. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Park visitors kayak, paddle board and wade knee deep in Lake Manly in Badwater Basin. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Unique salt structures form in the Badwater Basin at Death Valley National Park where water combines with the natural salt deposits at 282-feet below sea level, as seen in 2014. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Badwater is hot and dry enough to kill you pretty quickly, but as long as you have water to drink, a little shade and a way out, you’ll probably live and have a story to tell. On my first visit, a summer day about 30 years ago, Death Valley was even hotter than usual, around 115 degrees. The power had gone out at our Furnace Creek hotel. Rather than crowd into the marginally cooler hotel pool with scores of young children (and their urine, most likely), I headed with my wife and friends for the vast, flat, salty, dry lake floor of Badwater with a Wiffle ball and bat. The game didn’t last long, but there are photos: Except for our 20th century leisurewear, we looked like biblical figures in the process of being turned to pillars of salt. So last year, when rains washed out roads, closed Death Valley National Park for months, refilled the lake bed and transformed the basin into a great big mirror, I was eager to get back there.

‘I’ve never seen anything like this’: Death Valley gleams with water, wildflowers and color

Two months after a storm that dropped a year’s rainfall in a single day, visitors to the national park are encountering a a strange place made stranger — and more majestic.

Oct. 20, 2023

Within days of the park’s reopening, I got to Badwater for sunrise and came back again at sunset. No Wiffle ball. Just the big sky, the mountains reflected in the lake and a handful of fellow travelers in silhouette at water’s edge. To those bold few who managed to kayak in Death Valley for the three winter weeks that it was possible, I envy you. I don’t know if I’ll ever see that lake again — as of May 1, it was just a few inches deep and shrinking fast — but now I have two layers of Badwater memories to carry with me.

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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• Nature Travel

15 of the World's Most Naturally Beautiful Countries

These magnificent spots boast breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

What is the most beautiful country in the world? When it comes to the earth's diverse destinations, beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder, but some countries have the upper hand.

From the red rock formations of the American West to the Maldives' pristine white-sand beaches, there are myriad incredible places to visit around the globe. We've narrowed it down to 15 gorgeous spots to start. With majestic mountains, lush vegetation, awe-inspiring waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous coastlines, these countries will wow any traveler.

From massive waterfalls to black-sand beaches , this island country is bursting with beauty. Depending on the time of year you visit , you can experience unique natural phenomena. During the winter months, you can spot the spectacular northern lights dancing over frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes. Come summer, you can hike and then soak in hot springs under the midnight sun.

Between the snowy French Alps, glamorous French Riviera, rolling vineyard- and lavender-covered hills of Provence, and rocky coast of Brittany, is it any surprise France is often considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world? Plus, those natural wonders provide us with French wine, cheese, and more, so what's not to love?

Made up of thousands of islands, Indonesia has everything from green terraced rice fields to beautiful beaches, dense rain forests, and more. The island of Bali is popular among travelers seeking vistas of intricate temples against backdrops of crashing ocean waves or rolling hills with a volcano in the distance.

United States

From sea to shining sea, the United States offers endless picturesque landscapes. With the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys , the magnificent Grand Canyon , the snowcapped peaks of Alaska , and the postcard-worthy California coastline , it would take years to fully explore the country's most beautiful places.

When you envision the perfect beach paradise, sparkling aquamarine waters and sugar-white beaches — like those in the Maldives — likely spring to mind. Gaze at the palm tree-lined beaches from a thatched-roof overwater bungalow or dive under the surface to explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea life.

Italy is a dream destination. One visit and you'll be so enchanted by its natural beauty, delicious food, incredible architecture, and friendly people that you'll be ready to plan your next trip. It's hard to choose between the vineyard-covered Tuscan hills , the wanderlust-worthy Amalfi Coast , and the soaring peaks of the Dolomites , so we recommend visiting them all.

Switzerland

The breathtaking alpine landscapes of Switzerland — with sparkling lakes and charming villages — make this a must-visit destination, particularly for outdoorsy types who love to hike and ski. In the winter, the country resembles a living snow globe, while summertime reveals green mountains and fragrant wildflowers.

Bamboo forests, relaxing hot springs, iconic Mount Fuji , and tropical beaches — you'll find all this and more on a trip to Japan . Plan your getaway during cherry blossom season to see the country's famous blooms for yourself.

Everyone knows Costa Rica has incredible biodiversity, so nature lovers frequently put this country at the top of their travel list. Pretty beaches, the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest , volcanoes, waterfalls, and tons of wildlife are just a few of the reasons why this is one of the most naturally beautiful destinations in the world.

Eight of the world's 10 tallest mountains, including Mount Everest , are in Nepal. The Himalayas are a draw for adventurers hoping to test their climbing skills and endurance. Other visitors can choose to admire these impressive mountains from a distance. Of course, there's plenty more to see here, including wildlife like rhinos, tigers, and more.

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

The Amazon rain forest and Andes Mountains — home to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain — are reason enough to visit Peru, so the delicious ceviche and pisco are bonuses. For something completely different, head to Huacachina — a village set amid the only natural desert oasis in South America.

United Kingdom

London , Edinburgh, and Manchester might overshadow the United Kingdom's abundant natural beauty, but it's well worth venturing outside the major cities. From the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway and the dreamy Scottish Highlands , there's plenty to explore in the U.K.

South Africa

South Africa offers a truly impressive array of landscapes, with something for everyone. The diverse terrain features everything from vineyards and Kruger National Park to the mountainous coastline. Explore the natural wonders on a safari for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Another popular safari travel destination, Tanzania is home to the Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. The popular Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is home to the iconic eponymous volcano and Serengeti National Park teems with wildlife, including millions of wildebeest who migrate there every year. Tanzania also has a beautiful coastline and stunning islands like Zanzibar.

New Zealand

Outdoor adventure opportunities abound in New Zealand , where you can cruise around Milford Sound's fjords, ski on the North or South Island, check out geothermal phenomena like geysers and mud pools, and admire the country's ancient glaciers.

Related Articles

Best of the West: a Western Wyoming Vacation You Won't Forget

O ur family has done so many trips through the West over the years, and the Wyoming vacation is always a favorite pick! From vacations to stops while moving across the country to focusing on Yellowstone, there’s nothing quite like the Western Wyoming road trip . With epic views, cowboy activities and more, we’ve enjoyed a wide variety of experiences on each visit. I’ve got to say though, our week exploring the West starting in fossil country and ending in Yellowstone National Park was our most awesome visit yet.

We always aim to make our family trips a mix of fun and learning, and always try to find new things to do for all of us. I think this particular region of Wyoming offers more diverse sights and activities than any other part we’ve been to, and it’s perfect to suit lots of different interests. Here’s what we loved and for sure recommend in Fossil Country, western towns and Yellowstone National Park .

If you have any questions about these towns or this region in Wyoming, please let us know. It’s a very different sort of trip than most people plan when they visit, so if you would like to share your own ideas or inquiries, please leave a comment or send us a note !

Favorite Fossil Country Things to Do

We visit so many museums in our travels and get to see lots of fascinating fossils, from dinosaurs to extinct giant sloths, but we rarely get to see where these pieces of history come from. Wow. Fossil country, aka the southwestern slice of Wyoming, is full of fossil sites where you can both see incredible specimens everywhere AND you can actually find them yourself. The town of Kemmerer is at the heart of fossil country and you’ll love it! This is the first place we HIGHLY recommend when you’re planning a Wyoming vacation.

Quarrying for Our Own Fossils on a Wyoming Vacation

Visiting the American Fossil Qu a rry was one of the coolest things our kids have ever done. They were naturals at carefully splitting limestone and finding some really beautifully preserved fossils (and us adults did alright too!). We learned about how this enormous fossil deposit formed and how to identify and preserve fossils. A week of adventures in Wyoming and quarrying for fossils was the highlight the kids continue talking about.

Book a fossil dig here!

Exploring Fossil Butte National Monument

We also really enjoyed our visit to Fossil Butte National Monument . Within the same gigantic fossil bed, this preserved area is absolutely striking! The views of the colorful landscape and the wildlife are incredible on their own, but add to that a really cool visitor center loaded with so many types of fossils, large and small, and engaging exhibits for all ages, and a half day here is a win for any itinerary for Western Wyoming.

There are actually quite a few Wyoming National Park sites , so if you have more time, you could add several other interesting stops on your Wyoming vacation.

Touring the Wyoming Dinosaur Center and Dig Site

Dinosaurs will never lose their wonder for me (or our kids), so we try to see their bones and learn about them whenever we can. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis is a whole other level of fossils and discovery. Yes, there is a fantastic museum with specimens and exhibits, but there are also active dinosaur dig sites! Whether you just want to see what an active dino-dig is like or if you actually want to participate and learn more about paleontology, this is a must. Think about how much time you have, how important it is to those you’re traveling with (this may be something that is BUCKET LIST for some people) and if you can work a whole dinosaur themed day into your itinerary.

Fossil Country really is one of the best, most overlooked Wyoming vacation spots. It’s a great place to start travel planning for a completely different sort of trip. We’re planning another trip back for camping, dinosaurs, and a bunch of other great fossil country activities we’ve only just learned about (including awesome hikes!)

Great Ways to Enjoy a WESTERN Wyoming Vacation

Can you even say the word “Wyoming” out loud without thinking “The American West!”? I certainly can’t so a trip through Western Wyoming for us means doing all the western activities we can. From fun with horses to appreciating some of the most eye-catching western art, you’ll get your fill of The West here, with Cody, WY being the heart of it all. This is the Wyoming vacation plan you know you have been curious about but we’re sure how to research.

One of the most important elements of Wyoming’s history and equally important in having a balanced perspective during your visit, is taking time to appreciate and learn about the indigenous nations that did and do call Wyoming home. The state is the ancestral lands of the Shoshone, Arapaho, Lakota, Blackfeet, Cheyenne, Crow, Nez Perce (Nimiipuu), Sheep Eater, and other American Indian nations. Whether you observe a powwow or you take time engaging with educational exhibits, indigenous culture is one of the most vital aspects of the West.

The Cody Nite Rodeo

Rodeo culture is a totally unique experience, especially if you’re from the city or just didn’t grow up in a rural area. The Cody Nite Rodeo is THE place to experience it, from men’s bronco competition to kid events, it’s perfectly western. Even though rodeo events were all completely new to us, we got into it pretty quickly and learned what each event goal and process was. By the end of the night we had a great time and now are looking forward to our next rodeo experience!

Attend a Powwow or Land Acknowledgement

I can’t stress enough how important it is to take time to learn about the people who’ve always called Wyoming home. The history of the West is not good at times, with millions of people being both displaced and destroyed, and today, while we can’t change the past, we can all learn from it. The indigenous people of Wyoming, including the Shoshone and Lakota (our family) have a strong presence in the state and up into the Dakotas. While you’re exploring Western Wyoming, watch for events you can attend or participate in so you and your family can see up close the vibrant, incredible culture that lives today.

We attended the Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow in Fort Washakie and it was awesome. We were completely welcome as visitors, both to observe and participate in open, friendly dances. The community vibe was amazing and seeing such a celebration of living culture was very meaningful for our family.

Another event to watch for as you travel through Wyoming, and the rest of the West, is a land acknowledgement. Sometimes this comes in the form of a simple statement at the beginning of a public event and sometimes the stage is given to local tribal members to offer a statement, prayer, dance or performance. Whichever it is, take a moment to listen and explain to anyone you’re with why this is important, and if you aren’t sure yourself, ask!

Buffalo Bill Center of the West

There are museums and then there are MUSEUMS. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is five museums all in one central location and is the premier place to see all things Western. The Whitney Museum of Western Art and the Museums of the Plains Indian were our two favorite areas. The art, the stories, and amazing exhibits showing the West in a different light than we’re used to, these two museums really impressed us.

The Draper Natural History Museum and then, of course, the Buffalo Bill Museum are also great. Really, spending a few hours or a few days (it does take two days to do the whole museum complex) is one of the best ways to dig into the “western” side of a Wyoming vacation. When we talk with our kids about the West and what that means to most people, we are sure to explain that “cowboys” are the main story most people hear, but that the indigenous nations, including our great grand parents, are a very important part of that story. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West does a good job combining the histories.

Horseback Riding through Western Landscapes

Seeing Wyoming on horseback is a beautiful way to get a different perspective. Our family enjoys riding horses wherever we go, so getting to go up into the mountains and canyons of Cody was a blast. Craggy cliffs and flowing streams make for a different sort of horseback adventure than we’re used to.

If you don’t ride often but want to be sure it’s a part of your Western Wyoming experience, there are lots in Jackson, Lander, Dubois and beyond, so set aside a few hours during your adventure and experience the western landscapes for yourself!

Note: in Wyoming, kids under 18 are required to wear helmets when horseback riding. If a helmet isn’t offered for your children, wherever your Wyoming vacation takes you, ask for one before going out on the trail.

Old West Photo Souvenirs

One of our favorite souvenirs from Wyoming (and we have them from other places too) is our family Old West photo. If you haven’t done one before you have got to do a western photo shoot when you’re in Cody. You can find them in other towns too, but our experience at Way Back When Photography in Cody, WY was great. The kids got to pick out the type of Old West character they were, then us adults got dressed up too. Once in character you get to do a photoshoot with props and different sets, resulting in one of the best, most memorable Wyoming souvenirs you can find.

Things to consider when you’re doing an old west photo shoot, whether on your Wyoming vacation or in Carson City, NV or even Leavenworth, WA is what sort of props you’re okay with. Thinking about the context of the photo you’re creating, there are all kinds of things that aren’t okay in real life, like jugs of ale, beer mugs and a variety of weapons (real and replicas). We talk openly about the use of props and that they aren’t things kids would access in real life, and we talk DIRECTLY about guns and not pointing them, even fake ones, at people. When you’re doing a photo shoot like this, it’s important to put the times in context and draw a clear line between a photo prop and real life.

The Best of Yellowstone with Kids

Yellowstone National Park is so well known. It’s been our family’s favorite National Park destination since our kids were tiny, so even though we had a full and fun trip through Western Wyoming already, we just had to have a little time in the park. There are few places that compare to Yellowstone when it comes to wildlife, natural wonders and epic views. It’s the gem of Wyoming.

Easy Wildlife Viewing in Yellowstone

The thing about wildlife is just that: it’s wild. We saw so many beautiful places and learned so much during the rest of our Wyoming road trip that we could’ve gone home happy, but we love getting to just watch wildlife and Yellowstone is the perfect place for it. On this specific visit, we saw a bull moose, three grizzly bears, a black bear, countless bison and elk, deer, North American pelicans and so many more birds… all in one day!

The best route to drive in Yellowstone for the easiest wildlife viewing , especially if you have limited time, is the stretch from Cody, WY to Canyon Village. This drive takes you through the mountainous cliffs (watch for bighorn sheep), along Yellowstone Lake (look for moose, pelicans and more), through the Hayden Valley (bison, bears and trumpeter swans), and ends at Canyon Village (our favorite Yellowstone visitor center).

Best Kid-Geyser Experience

When we visit Yellowstone National Par k, we like to visit some of the lesser known spots, and that includes some of the overlooked geothermal areas. Old Faithful and Norris Geyser Basins are famous for good reasons, but they take a long time to explore and there are more people there than our top picks for visiting with kids or on a short timeframe. Our first pick is the Mud Volcano area. This is extra fun because it’s stinky gurgling mud. It’s full of cool sounds, crazy steam and is one of the most active geothermal sights you’ll see. It takes about a half hour to an hour to visit and is worth the stop.

Our next pick is a small geothermal area called the Biscuit Basin . It’s easy to drive past since it’s close to Old Faithful, but we love to stop here. This is a great place to see the variety of colors that Yellowstone’s hot springs are known for. It’s a small area, but beautiful. If you want to turn this stop into a hike, there are paths from here so bring your hiking pack and hit the trails.

The third geothermal stop that’s easy to add to a quick Yellowstone visit or is just great with kids is Firehole Lake Drive. This is a beautiful, quiet loop road with lots of small geysers, some gorgeous still waters, wildlife and a totally different Yellowstone experience than you might expect.

Favorite Family Photo Spots in Yellowstone

Of course our favorite viewpoint in Yellowstone for a family photo is at Artist Point on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone . How can it not be? With every visit we get a new family photo here and it’s just wild to see our kids growing up with new Wyoming vacation memories at each visit. While the main Artist Point lookout is the where most people go and snap a photo, the best spot is actually on the stair down to the viewing area. You’ll love it!

Another beautiful spot for a family photo is at the Calcite Springs Overlook. Here you’ll see a totally unique perspective across the canyon and surrounding mountains, including geothermal areas below. It’s awesome!

One more perfect spot for a family photo is on the lakeside boardwalk at the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Catch it on a sunny day for sparking water, turquoise and glowing dormant geysers in the lake, and just downright beautiful surroundings. The bonus is getting to see even more colorful springs in a lakeside setting.

For more Yellowstone travel plans check out our complete guide and podcast episodes all about our favorite National Park!

I hope you can tell how much we enjoyed our journey through the west on this Wyoming vacation. It’s been a family favorite for camping, hiking and science trips for a long time, but this most recent adventure really showed off how diverse the experiences are and how PERFECT Wyoming is for a family trip.

If you have any questions about planning a Wyoming vacation, things to do around the state, stuff outside of Yellowstone or need tips for anything else in the Rocky Mountain region , please leave a comment or send us a note . We love this part of the USA and are always happy to share more vacation planning tips, in Wyoming or beyond!

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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When is it best to visit the Kremlin ? - Moscow Forum

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When is it best to visit the Kremlin ?

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Is it really true that foreigners pay up to 5 times as much as Russians to get in ?

Thanks in advance

Thanks Bobislav that generally what I needed to know. Nice tip about the armory too. I'm planning to go this Tuesday as I understand it the ticket offices open around 9:30 am with first admissions at 10:00 as I understand it you can buy tickets outside the Kremlin though the sites I was looking at about this was a bit vague on where you can do this.

Yes, that's right. Our plan was to get to the ticket office when it opened and hang around till 10 a.m. Inevitably, we were late!

We went to the ticket office at Kutafya Tower - I don't know whether there are other entrances, but that worked for us.

By the way, I was so convinced that there were going to be queues for the Kremlin that I almost joined the longish queue for Lenin's mausoleum, so don't be confused by this!

Also, having read the conversation upthread about entrance prices, I can confirm that as foreign tourists we paid 700 roubles each for entry to the Armoury and 350 each for entry to the Kremlin cathedrals etc.

I'd say four hours is definitely enough. Other than the Armoury, in which you can spend a maximum of 90 minutes, the other main sights to which you'll have access are the Kremlin cathedrals and Patriarch's Palace, which are situated very close together. The cathedrals are beautiful, but not overly large. Of interest are also a giant bell and giant cannon, but they are very close to the other sights and there's only really so long you can spend looking at them.

I have to say that, while I'm very glad to have visited the Kremlin and seen beyond the walls, it seems far less impressive once you're inside. You may well need to spend less than four hours there, meaning that you'll be able to spend more time on something else instead.

Hi Bobislav, how much did you pay for the Armoury and it what currency.

Marassa - you're right about Russia needing to improve its image in regarding treatment of foreigners. The entire visa/visa company thing is offputting and a real drag. Nice to be able to visit the EU without a visa at all - I don't like having to have an invitation, etc.

What about my hospitableness, that in a previous topic I offered the help to author of this post with find ways in the Moscow museums. I don't think, that it speak about my negative attitude to foreigners.

CookieDartmouth, I'm glad we agree on the "them rich foreigners" issue, but I have to disagree with you on the "visa thing". The visa thing is absolutely reciprocal: any Russian wishing to visit the US has to apply for a US visa and pay for it an amount roughly equal to what you have to pay for a Russian visa. The day the US starts to admit Russian citizens with no visa, you will be able to come to Russia with no visa as well, just like Israeli, Thai, Cuban and many other nationals are doing right now.

Nowpetronius, we paid 700 roubles each for entrance to the Armoury (I'm from the UK, so we withdrew roubles from a cash machine at the airport on our arrival - I understand euros and US dollars can be used in some places, but I'd have thought you get a better deal paying in roubles).

@nowpetronius:

I see you're from the UK too - I was surprised, given how poorly the pound's been doing against the euro this last year, at how favourable the exchange rate seemed to be with the rouble.

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What's open and closed for Memorial Day? See which stores and restaurants are operating today.

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: May 27, 2024 / 10:33 AM EDT / CBS News

With Memorial Day finally here, Americans from coast to coast are gearing up to celebrating the holiday with family and friends, or perhaps quietly solo. 

Whether you're hosting a barbecue or attending one, you may find yourself in need of a last-minute run to the grocery store before the grilling begins. Those without plans may want to partake in some casual shopping or lunch with friends at a fast-food restaurant. Luckily, many retailers and restaurants will be open on May 27.

• What is open and closed in Chicago on Memorial Day?
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Here's a list of what is and isn't open on Memorial Day.

What places are open on Memorial Day 2024?

• Academy Sports + Outdoors
• Ace Hardware
• Barnes & Noble
• Bass Pro Shops
• Bed Bath & Beyond
• BJ's Wholesale Club 
• Crate & Barrel
• Dollar General 
• Dollar Tree 
• Family Dollar
• Foot Locker
• GameStop 
• Guitar Center
• Krogers and its network of grocery stores — including Ralphs, King Soopers, Metro Market, Pick'n Save and more
• Rite Aid 
• Trader Joe's 
• Tractor Supply Company
• Walgreens 
• Whole Foods 

Restaurants, fast-food chains open on Memorial Day

• Bahama Breeze
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Burger King
• Chick-fil-A
• Cracker Barrel
• Cold Stone Creamery
• Dairy Queen
• Dunkin' 
• Golden Corral
• Olive Garden
• Ruby Tuesday
• TGI Fridays
• Waffle House

Places with special hours of operation on Memorial Day 2024

• Aldi closes early.  Check  times at your local store

What places are closed on Memorial Day 2024?

• Natural Grocers
• Memorial Day

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

Other blog posts you might be interested in...

• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• A 2-week Norway road trip
• A complete guide to Helsinki
• A complete guide to Tallinn
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• The best things to do in Europe: the ultimate Europe bucket list

Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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General election latest: UK anti-migrant stance 'biggest economic threat' to Scotland, SNP leader claims

The Conservative government has pledged £1bn a year in a bid to increase the number of GP appointments in the UK. And Labour has announced plans to reduce migration.

Sunday 2 June 2024 21:09, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Diane Abbott intends 'to run and win' as Labour MP
• Labour lead grows by six points in a week, poll suggests
• Tories pledge £1bn to increase GP appointments
• Starmer announces plans to lower legal migration
• SNP launches election campaign
• Labour: Abbott row 'resolved' | Treatment by Labour 'had element of cruelty'
• Conservative defectors had 'their own reasons for going'
• Be in the audience for our election leaders event
• Live reporting by Tim Baker and, earlier,  Faith Ridler

Expert analysis

• Adam Boulton: 'Starmtroopers' are purging Labour
• Ali Fortescue:  Images both parties want to present clash with reality
• Darren McCAffrey :  Scotland used to be a Labour fiefdom - it could become so again

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections past
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Your essential guide to election lingo | Sky's election night plans

It's just gone 8pm - here's what you need to know as the first full week of campaigning ends.

We're ending our live coverage here for today - but will be picking it up again in the morning.

Let us get you up to speed on everything you may have missed today…

• Diane Abbott  says she will stand and win as a Labour candidate in the election;
• Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper  told Sky News that Ms Abbott had not been offered a peerage   in exchange for not standing as an MP;
• And on policy, Labour announced plans to reduce net migration - with Sir Keir accusing the Conservatives of having "repeatedly broken their promises" to get the number down;
• Shadow schools minister Catherine McKinnell said the party would use the forecasts to get net migration to 315,000 by 2028. 
• The Conservative Party pledged to build 100 new GP surgeries if they get into power;
• Rishi Sunak was out campaigning in London;
• Health Secretary Victoria Atkins said Tory defectors had their 'own' reasons for leaving the party;
• And health minister Maria Caulfield said it wasn't the number of people on NHS waiting lists that mattered - but the length of time they spent on it .
• SNP leader John Swinney attacked Labour as he launched his party's general election campaign;
• He said immigration was important to Scotland - and views in the UK threatened that ;
• Sky political correspondent Darren McCaffrey said the SNP faces losing several seats in the areas that were once Labour heartlands .

Here are a couple of other stories that may interest you:

Our essential political podcast,  Politics At Jack And Sam's , is going out every week day through the election campaign to bring a short burst of everything you need to know about the day ahead as this election unfolds.

Tap here to follow Politics At Jack At Sam's wherever you get your podcasts .

A word cloud from pollsters More In Common, found that a lot of people think the general election campaign is "boring".

Ali asks our panel if they agree that it is the case (with a disclaimer that both are on a politics show on a Sunday night).

James Starkie, the former Home Office adviser, says he thinks it's partly to do with the parties' leaders.

He says that, even though Jeremy Corbyn wasn't charismatic, he was compelling.

And no-one would describe Boris Johnson as boring, Mr Starkie says.

But there is a fatigue in politics at the moment. Mr Starkie reckons a lot of people will only tune in for the last week or so of the election.

The New Statesman's Freddie Hayward says Rishi Sunak needs to avoid the mistakes he made with Liz Truss during public debates - where he came across as rude by interrupting.

He also spoke too quickly, Mr Hayward says.

Both leaders, he reckons, will be working with their teams ahead of the debates to make sure they're best prepared.

And with that, Ali ends the Politics Hub show.

Join us again tomorrow, when Sophy Ridge will be back at the helm.

By Tamara Cohen , political correspondent

As AI deepfakes cause havoc during other elections, experts warn the UK's politicians should be prepared.

"Just tell me what you had for breakfast", says Mike Narouei, of ControlAI, recording on his laptop. I speak for around 15 seconds, about my toast, coffee and journey to their offices.

Within seconds, I hear my own voice, saying something entirely different.

In this case, words I have written: "Deepfakes can be extremely realistic and have the ability to disrupt our politics and damage our trust in the democratic process."

We have used free software, it hasn't taken any advanced technical skills, and the whole thing has taken next to no time at all.

This is an audio deepfake - video ones take more effort to produce - and as well as being deployed by scammers of all kinds, there is deep concern, in a year with some two billion people going to the polls, in the US, India and dozens of other countries including the UK, about their impact on elections.

You can read more from Sky News below:

Our panel is now discussing the NHS.

James Starkie says that shadow health secretary Wes Streeting's pledge to reform the NHS has struck a chord with the public.

He says that it does need to be digitised drastically, among other things, and Mr Streeting has spoken about that.

But the devil is in the details, Mr Starkie says, and also the funding - which Labour has not set out its plans for.

Freddie Hayward, a political correspondent at the New Statesman, says it remains to be seen if Labour has the political capital to reform the NHS if they come into power.

He says the situation is tricky due to the party's inheritance - and there will be a swathe of issues if they come into power.

Maria Caulfield, the health minister, is now speaking to Ali about the NHS.

Ali asks about the NHS waiting lists - noting they doubled between 2010 and the pandemic.

Ms Caulfield says that "it's not how many people are on the waiting list that is the important factor".

She adds: "Because as we develop new treatments as we open up new services, as people get conditions that can be treated, waiting lists of course will grow".

What does matter, she says, is "how long" people wait.

People have gone from waiting two years this time last year, to an average of 16 to 18 weeks, Ms Caulfield claims.

Building new surgeries

Ms Caulfield is then asked about her party's pledge today to build 100 new GP surgeries and modernise another 150.

Ali points out that Boris Johnson pledged 40 new hospitals in 2019 - and it is predicted these will not be done by the 2030 deadline.

Ms Caulfield dismisses the concerns of the National Audit Office - and says the target remains 2030.

Back to our panel, and they are discussing migration.

James Starkie, the former Home Office adviser, says Labour adopting the OBR's forecast for net migration to fall to 315,000 by 2028 is important.

He says targets are "hostage to fortune" - as the Tories have found out.

But committing to the OBR's figures impacts how a government can forecast their tax income - and this was shown when Liz Truss had to accept large levels of immigration to fund her tax cuts.

Freddie Hayward says that cutting immigration will cost money - taking the example of employing UK people in the care sector costs more as wages are higher.

And that has to be funded from council budgets, who will look to central government for help.

Shadow schools minister Catherine McKinnell is asked by Ali about reports that private schools are blaming Labour's proposed VAT rise on the institutions for closing.

She says it is "right" for private schools to pay VAT - adding that there have been a number of above-inflation rises to school fees in recent years and student numbers have not fallen.

The shadow minister says the money raised from the tax rise will be spent on state schools, where "nine out of ten" children get their education.

She adds that thinktanks have factored behavioural changes into their forecasts of schools fees being taxed - and a net benefit was predicted.

On tonight's Politics Hub with Ali Fortescue , Labour's shadow schools minister Catherine McKinnell was asked about the party's immigration policy.

It comes after Labour made a pledge to reduce net migration ( read more here ).

Ms McKinnell was asked if her party would stick by the forecasts based on current policy produced by the Office of Budgetary Responsibility (OBR), which stated net migration would fall from 685,000 at the end of last year to 315,000 by the 2027/2028 period.

The Labour candidate first said the party respects the OBR, and that she did not know what the projected figure was.

When Ali told her what the target was, she was unclear if Labour would accept the figure as part of its plans should it take power.

Ms McKinnell then said that "if that's what the OBR is predicting, then that's what we will work within".

Asked if this was then Labour's target to reduce migration, Ms McKinnell says Labour does not have a target for reducing migration.

She adds that immigration can be a benefit to the economy, but UK also needs to grow its on workforce.

Ali turns to your panel to discuss the Diane Abbott row - and the veteran Labour politician standing again for the party ( read more here ).

Freddie Hayward, a political correspondent at the New Statesman, says what happens this week will decide whether a line has been drawn under the squabble.

He says that, if Ms Abbott comes out in the media it could inflame the situation again.

But if she backs the leadership, then it will maybe see things move on.

James Starkie, a former Home Office adviser, points out that Labour has made a series of decisions which have been questionable.

This includes what happened to Ms Abbott, as well as things like the row back on a £28bn climate pledge.

He says if Labour wants to be in government, it needs to get on top of such events.

Good evening. Welcome to the first Sunday Politics Hub – in case you missed it, we are now going seven days a week - so I will be with you on the weekends from here on in.

And well, today the parties are focusing on two things that always come right at the top of the list of what the public care about.

Healthcare and immigration.

But not necessarily the way round you'd expect, though.

It's Labour pledging to be tough on net migration.

And the Conservatives promising more GP appointments.

Not their traditional turf.

Waiting lists have reached record highs under the Tories.

And for labour - will too tough a message on immigration turn off some voters? The SNP certainly thought so today.

Or is this an election where we're seeing traditional party lines, and potentially the political map, redrawn?

A lot might have happened this week – but look at the polls.

The Labour Party is still miles ahead, holding onto a 20 point lead.

The first TV debate is this week - could a breakout moment in a head-to-head debate shift the polls?

Be the first to get Breaking News

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South Africa elections 2024 explained in maps and charts

On May 29, South Africans head to the polls. After 30 years of dominance, the ANC faces its toughest election yet, needing 50 percent to maintain its majority.

On May 29, South Africans will vote in national and provincial elections to elect a new National Assembly and state legislatures. The National Assembly will choose the president for the next five years.

It will be the country’s seventh democratic general election since apartheid ended in 1994 when Nelson Mandela was elected president with the ANC winning 62.5 percent of the 400 seats in the National Assembly.

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After 30 years of dominance, the African National Congress (ANC) faces its toughest election yet, needing 50 percent of the National Assembly to maintain its parliamentary majority.

When do polls open?

A total of 23,292 polling stations will be open from 7am to 9pm (05:00 GMT to 19:00 GMT), with election day declared a public holiday to facilitate voting.

According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), 27.79 million South Africans aged 18 and above have registered for the elections this year up from 26.74 million in 2019.

Registered voters living abroad cast their votes on May 17 and 18 and voters with special needs, including pregnant women and people with disabilities, will cast their ballots two days before election day on May 27 and 28.

How does the election work?

South Africa follows a proportional voting system where parties and candidates compete for 400 seats in the parliament known as the National Assembly.

For the first time, independent candidates will compete in the elections. To accommodate this change, voters will receive three ballots instead of two, each requiring a choice of one party or candidate.

Two ballots will be for electing the National Assembly, and the third will be for electing members of the provincial legislature in each of South Africa’s nine provinces.

South Africa’s election management body, the IEC , cleared 14,889 candidates, including 70 political parties and 11 independents, to contest 887 seats in the May vote.

• Same ballot across the country
• Voters elect one of 52 political parties
• Represents 200 seats in the National Assembly
• Unique to each province
• Voters elect either a political party or an independent candidate
• Represents the remaining 200 seats in the National Assembly
• Voters elect political parties and independent candidates
• The number of seats is determined by the population size in each province

Who is in South Africa’s current National Assembly?

South Africa’s lower house of parliament currently includes 14 political parties represented by 400 members, allocated proportionally based on the votes each party received in the 2019 elections.

• African National Congress (ANC): 230 seats (57.5 percent)
• Democratic Alliance (DA): 84 seats (21 percent)
• Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF): 44 seats (11 percent)
• Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP): 14 seats (3.5 percent)

Ten other parties make up the remaining 28 seats.

How is the president in South Africa elected?

South Africans do not directly vote for the president.

Instead, they elect 400 members of the National Assembly, who then select the president by a simple majority – 201 or more votes determine the presidency.

If the ANC secures more than 50 percent of the seats, President Cyril Ramaphosa, 71, will most likely be re-elected as president to serve his second and final five-year term.

What if no party receives a majority?

Opinion polls suggest the governing ANC, which is hovering at about 40 percent , will likely lose its majority.

If this happens, then the ANC will need to try to make a deal with other parties to form a coalition government, with the choice of coalition partner depending on their distance from the 50 percent mark.

Nevertheless, unless the ANC performs much worse than expected, there is a slim chance they could be completely removed from government.

How has the ANC performed in previous elections?

The ANC has won every election since the end of apartheid in 1994 when Mandela became the country’s first Black president.

In the 1994 and 1999 elections, the ANC won 62.5 percent and 66.36 percent of the votes, respectively, with high voter turnouts of 86 percent and 89 percent.

In 2004, amid a lower voter turnout of 76 percent, the ANC reached its highest levels, clinching almost 70 percent of the vote and securing Thabo Mbeki a second term as president.

In September 2008, Kgalema Motlanthe assumed the role of caretaker president after President Mbeki resigned, at the request of his party. He held this position until 2009 when Jacob Zuma took office following the ANC’s victory with nearly 66 percent of the vote.

Five years later, in the 2014 elections, the ANC emerged victorious but with a reduced share of the vote at 62 percent. The Democratic Alliance (DA) made significant gains, securing 22 percent of the vote. The newly formed Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party under former African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) President Julius Malema garnered 6 percent of the vote.

In 2018, following years of internal disputes and scandals, Zuma announced his resignation, leading Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa to assume the presidency.

In the 2019 elections, voter turnout hit a low of 66 percent, with the ANC receiving 57.5 percent of the vote.

Who is likely to win?

Four of the biggest players to watch out for in this year’s election are the ANC, the DA, the MK and the EFF.

ANC – Cyril Ramaphosa (71)

According to the most recent opinion poll by local broadcaster eNCA , support for the ANC stands at about 43.4 percent – a two-point increase from two months ago.

The ANC is expected to win majorities in seven out of South Africa’s nine provinces.

However, it is projected to be defeated by Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), and also in the Western Cape, where the DA is poised for another victory.

DA – John Steenhuisen (48)

Polling in second with about 18.6 percent is the country’s official opposition DA, which has been campaigning on a platform to “rescue South Africa”.

The DA currently holds a majority in South Africa’s Western Cape province, with Cape Town as its capital city. In the 2019 elections, it won 55.45 percent of the vote in the province.

MK – Jacob Zuma (82)

The MK party, named after the ANC’s former paramilitary wing uMkhonto we Sizwe (meaning “Spear of the Nation”), is currently polling in third at 14.1 percent.

The party led by former President Zuma was formed in 2023 and is expected to gain seats from the ANC.

In May, South Africa’s Constitutional Court barred Zuma from running for parliament following his 2021 contempt of court conviction; however, he remains the face of the party and is expected to present a candidate from the party as his stand-in.

EFF – Julius Malema (43)

Bringing up the top four, with 11.4 percent, is the anti-establishment EFF led by Julius Malema.

Formerly an ally of Zuma, Malema was expelled from the ANC in 2012 due to his disagreements with the then-president and other party members. He then went on to establish the EFF in 2013.

When will the results be announced?

The IEC normally begins releasing partial results within hours of polls closing.

In the last national election held on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, the final results were announced three days later on Saturday, May 11.

However, this year, with one more ballot to count, verifying results may take longer.

The IEC says it will announce the election results on Sunday, June 2.

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South African election early results see ANC losing majority, DA and MK performing well

• Medium Text

• South Africans voted on Wednesday for new parliament
• Early results: ANC biggest party but no majority
• New parliament will elect president
• Ex-president Zuma's party erodes support for ANC

'DISASTER FOR SOUTH AFRICA'

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Additional reporting by Kopano Gumbi, Tannur Anders, Alexander Winning, Nellie Peyton, Bate Felix, Karin Strohecker, Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo and Bansari Mayur Kamdar; Writing by Estelle Shirbon and Joe Bavier; Editing by Gareth Jones, Toby Chopra, Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Alison Williams

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Based in Johannesburg, Bhargav reports on breaking news across Sub-Saharan Africa. He has covered several high-profile stories on the continent, including former Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius's parole and release and the BRICS summit. Previously he spent three and a half years in Bengaluru, India, as part of Reuters' Global News Monitoring team. He has a master's degree in International Studies.

Based in Johannesburg, Anait reports on breaking news across Sub-Saharan Africa. Previously she spent over two years in Gdansk, Poland, covering company news and translating Reuters articles from English into French. Prior to joining Reuters in 2020, Anait studied journalism at Sciences Po, Paris, and linguistics at Moscow State Linguistic University.

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