Located inside Banff National Park, the small Town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies Tour is visited by millions from all over the world.
With its wide variety of lodging, restaurants, retail and outdoor activities, it’s a great base for visitors to then explore the mountainous surrounds, hot springs that led to the development of the park itself, Bow Falls, Lake Minnewanka, the ‘Castle in the Rockies’ and view from the Banff Gondola.
Considered one of the best waterfall hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour, Laurel Falls is very photogenic and named for the mountain laurel that blooms along the trail in spring.
The 80-foot falls has an upper and lower section, divided by a walkway which crosses the stream at the base of the upper falls. Laurel Falls is wildly popular with all ages including families, so try and arrive early to miss most of the crowds.
One of the world’s longest stone arches and the longest in the Arches National Park Tour, Landscape Arch stretches over 300 feet but is only 11 feet thick at its center.
Like many arches it’s constantly changing, and you can see the 60 foot slab fall from 1991.
Driving Newfound Gap Road is a highlight for many visitors on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour.
This 33-mile road winds its way to the highest elevations in the park with stunning views at every turn, passing a number of scenic overlooks and trailheads. Newfound Gap is the lowest drivable pass and you’ll want to stop here for the expansive views and to see the blue “smoke” trails that the Smokies is so famous for.
Wai’anapanapa State Park is a gorgeous 122-acre state park that’s home to the Maui Tour‘s most famous black sand beach and packed with stunning vistas and historic sights.
Follow the signs to explore along the beach and spot the sea arch offshore and find the blowhole, or walk through the park’s lava formations, caves, ancient sites, pictographs and native forest groves. Just remember, whether you’re headed here for the beach or a hike you’ll need a reservation.
Pearl Harbor in the Oahu Tour is the location where the Japanese executed a sneak aerial attack on the US and brought America directly into World War II.
The events of that fateful day and the countless lives that were affected are memorialized at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. For many visitors a trip here is not complete without stepping foot on the USS Arizona Memorial, which is built over the remains of the sunken battleship USS Arizona.
As the name suggests, Grand View Point is by far the best viewpoint in the Canyonlands National Park Tour and the highlight of the Island in the Sky.
From the overlook you can gaze down into a literal maze of canyons carved by the waters of the Colorado and Green Rivers, and catch a glimpse of the White Rim Road winding its way around the canyon bottom.
No trip to Oahu is complete without a visit to Hanauma Bay, consistently one of the Oahu Tour‘s top 3 attractions.
Formed when the seaside face of a volcanic cone broke away, this pristine marine ecosystem allows snorkelers to get up close to living coral and abundant reef fish. This of course includes the Hawaii state fish, the Humuhumunukunukuapua`a. Just remember that reservations are now required to enter the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.
Cades Cove is, without a doubt, the most popular place in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour for wildlife viewing and photography.
This secluded valley draws millions of visitors every year and the 11-mile drive is a highlight in any season, from newborn animals in spring to the gorgeous fall colors. Make sure to keep a lookout for wildlife: black bears, white tailed deer and elk are often seen grazing, lazing and seemingly posing for photos in the fields.
Step back in time at Cable Mill, a preserved pioneer settlement in Cades Cove. Explore the working grist mill, blacksmith shop, and historic cabins. Set beside Abrams Creek, this peaceful spot shows how early mountain communities lived and worked.
Gatlinburg is a fun and lively mountain town at the park’s edge. Stroll down the Parkway, explore unique shops, or ride the Space Needle for panoramic views. It’s a great mix of local charm and visitor-friendly energy.
Walk behind a real waterfall at Grotto Falls, one of the park’s most magical spots. This shaded trail takes you through lush forest to a cool cascade where you can feel the mist and snap great photos. A favorite stop for families and hikers alike.
Visit one of Cades Cove’s oldest buildings at the John Oliver Place. This simple log cabin gives a glimpse into 1800s settler life in the Smokies. Surrounded by peaceful fields and mountains, it’s a quiet and meaningful stop on the scenic loop.
Mingus Mill is a historic grist mill still powered by a working water flume. Watch cornmeal being ground just like it was in the 1800s and learn about life in early mountain communities. The rushing water and shaded setting add to the charm.
The Sinks is a powerful waterfall where the Little River crashes through narrow rock channels. This spot is loud, dramatic, and perfect for photos. It’s one of the park’s most dynamic water features, especially after rain.
Stop by Sugarlands Visitor Center to start or wrap up your Smoky Mountain trip. Get maps, talk to rangers, and explore exhibits on the park’s wildlife and history. It’s a great place to get your bearings and deepen your connection to the park.
Even though the trail to the summit is closed, the views of Chimney Tops are still a must-see. These sharp rock peaks rise high above the forest and create one of the park’s most dramatic skylines. Great photo spot and iconic Smoky Mountain scene.
Explore Smoky Mountain farm life at the Oconaluftee Farm Museum. Walk among old barns, cabins, and tools used by early settlers. Costumed interpreters often demonstrate traditional crafts, giving you a real feel for mountain history.
Take a scenic hike to Alum Cave Bluff, a massive overhang that once sheltered early settlers. The trail offers stunning mountain views and unique rock formations along the way. Look for the dark stains that give the bluff its name. It’s one of the most rewarding hikes in the Smokies.
Inspiration Point is arguably the most spectacular viewpoint in the Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks Tour, and from here you can look out across the entire Bryce Amphitheater to see thousands of hoodoos.
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in the Miami – Key West Tour was the USA’s first undersea park, and covers around 70 nautical square miles with mangrove swamps, shallow water coral and deep sea reefs.
Visitors can snorkel with multitudes of fish and explore the Christ of the Deep Statue and remnants of an old Spanish shipwreck, and those preferring to stay dry can enjoy a glass-bottomed boat tour.
Bahia Honda State Park is rightly considered the best beach in the Miami – Key West Tour.
On a nice warm day this is highly recommended stop for a cooling swim, stroll in the sand, or a nap under the palm trees. And don’t miss taking the classic photo of the derelict railway bridge.
Spearfish Canyon in the Black Hills Tour is a superb 19 mile stretch of road with stunning waterfalls and 1,000 foot high limestone walls, and it’s one of the most beautiful ways to get from Deadwood to Spearfish.
There’s several hikes and waterfalls to stop at along the way, including the road-side Bridal Veil Falls and the gushing 47-foot Spearfish Falls, which is perhaps the most attractive waterfall in the Black Hills.
A short sidetrip from the Black Hills Tour is the mesmerizing rock formation, Devils Tower.
A place of intrigue and fascination even before it became the nation’s first National Monument. Native Americans celebrate what they know as “Bears Lodge” for its spiritual importance. Take a relatively easy walk around its base, or see longer views of the tower rising from the gentle rolling hills on other hiking trails.
The Badlands Wall is one of the most famous sights in Badlands National Park. This long, jagged ridge stretches for miles and shows off colorful rock layers shaped by millions of years of erosion. It’s a dramatic landscape you won’t forget.
Bridal Veil Falls is a 60-foot waterfall in the heart of Spearfish Canyon. It’s right by the roadside and easy to visit. Spring and early summer bring the strongest water flow, making it a great photo stop.
Still in progress, the Crazy Horse Memorial honors the Lakota warrior with one of the world’s largest mountain carvings. The visitor center includes exhibits, Native American art, and cultural events that share the story behind this powerful tribute.
Most definitely the star of the Rocky Mountain National Park Tour, Trail Ridge Road is a scenic drive like no other in the country.
This 48-mile road climbs up to over 12,000 feet through dense aspen forests, gorgeous mountain valleys, and unique alpine tundra. Along the way, take in panoramic mountain views from the scenic overlooks and keep your eyes out for pikas, marmots and bighorn sheep, as well as elk grazing in the forest-rimmed meadows.
The jewel of the Canadian Rockies Tour, the turquoise-coloured Lake Louise is perfectly framed by towering peaks and the Victoria Glacier and is a definite must-see sight.
Stunning photos can be snapped from the lake’s foreshore, and it’s best to visit in July and August to see those famous glacier-fed blue hues. From here you can hike to an alpine teahouse or rent a canoe for ultimate bragging rights.
Rising from Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour, the observation tower and 375 feet long spiral ramp might remind you of a ufo taking off.
It’s a steep 1.2 mile trail to the summit but has lots of rest (I mean appreciation) benches along the way. You’ll be rewarded with views above the treetops that stretch for 100 miles on clear days. At 6,643 feet, you can see 7 states from the top on a perfect day.
Kick off your island adventure in Key Largo, the gateway to the Florida Keys. Home to America’s first undersea park, this spot is famous for colorful coral reefs, curious fish, and that iconic underwater statue. Snorkel, dive, or hop on a glass-bottom boat, your tropical getaway starts here.
Time-travel to the early 1900s on Pigeon Key, a pint-sized island packed with history. Once a base for railroad workers, it now charms visitors with vintage buildings, ocean views, and tales of Flagler’s grand vision. Ride or walk the Old Seven Mile Bridge to reach this hidden gem.
At only 80 pounds, the endangered Key Deer is the smallest subspecies of white-tailed deer and they are found exclusively in the Miami – Key West Tour.
Keep an eye out for these adorable little deer, they can be spotted wandering around the island and you’ll see slow driving zones to help protect them. The best place to see them is at the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key.
Get your cameras ready for a quintessential Florida Keys photo opportunity with “Betsy,” the giant lobster! Located in Islamorada at the entrance to the Rain Barrel Artisans’ Village, this massive, anatomically correct sculpture of a Caribbean spiny lobster stands an impressive 30 feet tall and 40 feet long. Created by artist Richard Blaze in the 1980s, Betsy has become one of the most photographed roadside attractions in the Keys, offering a fun and quirky stop to commemorate your scenic journey south.
South Florida isn’t just known for its stunning beaches—it’s a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, particularly for tarpon feeding! The tarpon is a large, silver-hued fish that has been said to live up to 50 years (one in captivity lived 68 years), can grow up to 8 feet in length, and weighs a whopping 280+ lbs!!!. Thriving in warm, subtropical waters, this impressive species has attracted fishermen since the early 1900s. The Florida Keys is undoubtedly the tarpon fishing capital of the world. For a truly unique Florida Keys experience, stop at Robbies Marina on Islamorada and try your luck at tarpon feeding. Be sure to incorporate this thrilling fishing experience into your itinerary when traveling from Miami to Key West.
Driving the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail’s scenic 6-mile loop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour is a short drive from the hustle of Gatlinburg and a wonderful way to spend a couple of hours, passing historic cabins and some of the park’s best waterfalls.
Grotto Falls is one of the most popular, and the only one where the trail actually passes behind the waterfall. Time it right and you may be lucky enough to see the llamas hauling supplies to LeConte Lodge.
One of the Zion National Park Tour’s most famous landmarks, the Court of the Patriarchs is three prominent sandstone peaks named after the biblical figures of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
One of the bucket list hikes in the Zion National Park Tour, The Narrows is a unique slot canyon adventure through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon.
Hikers walk through the gorge’s thousand foot walls in the Virgin River, which is usually ankle deep but can come up as high as your waist.
Discover the sun-drenched beauty of the Kohala Coast, a haven of luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and ancient Hawaiian history. This leeward side of the island boasts calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Explore historical sites like Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, an important ancient temple. Indulge in world-class dining and shopping, or simply relax on the golden sands and soak up the Hawaiian sunshine. The Kohala Coast offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination. Its drier climate ensures plenty of sunny days to enjoy its many charms
Embark on a scenic drive along the lush Hamakua Coast, a verdant paradise of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tropical rainforests. This windward side of the island receives ample rainfall, creating a vibrant and fertile landscape. Discover charming small towns, explore botanical gardens, and marvel at the numerous waterfalls that plunge down the steep cliffs. The Hamakua Coast offers a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells, showcasing the island’s incredible natural beauty and its rich agricultural heritage
Experience the vibrant energy of Hilo, the largest town on the Big Island and the gateway to the windward coast. Explore its historic downtown, browse local shops and farmers’ markets, and visit cultural attractions like the Lyman Museum and Mission House. Discover the beauty of Wailuku River State Park, home to Rainbow Falls and Peʻepeʻe Falls. Hilo offers a blend of urban amenities and natural wonders, with a distinctly local and welcoming atmosphere. Its proximity to both the rainforest and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park makes it a significant hub on the island
Witness the enchanting beauty of Rainbow Falls, or Waiānuenue, located in Hilo. This stunning 80-foot waterfall cascades into a clear pool below, often creating a vibrant rainbow in the mist on sunny mornings. Lush tropical foliage surrounds the falls, creating a picturesque setting. According to Hawaiian legend, the cave behind the falls is home to Hina, the mother of the demigod Maui. This easily accessible natural wonder is a must-see when exploring the Hilo side of the island
Experience the vibrant energy and historical significance of Kona, the bustling hub of the island’s west coast. Explore the historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona), browse its shops and restaurants, and learn about its royal past at sites like Mokuaikaua Church and Huliheʻe Palace. Enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters, go deep-sea fishing, or simply relax on its beautiful beaches. Kona offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, making it a popular destination for visitors
Discover the charming and artistic town of Hawi, located at the northern tip of the Big Island. This quaint community is known for its art galleries, boutiques, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s also the turnaround point for the Ironman World Championship triathlon. Explore the local shops, enjoy a meal at a local eatery, and soak in the small-town vibe. Hawi offers a glimpse into a more rural and artistic side of the Big Island, with beautiful coastal views nearby
Be captivated by the breathtaking vista from the Pololu Valley Overlook. This dramatic viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of a deep, green valley flanked by towering cliffs that plunge down to a black sand beach. Hike down the steep trail to explore the valley floor and experience its secluded beauty firsthand (note: the hike is challenging). The contrast between the lush valley and the rugged cliffs is truly spectacular, making Pololu Valley a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.
One of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls, stunning Akaka Falls on the Big Island Tour plummets a sheer 440 feet into a gorge.
The trail is an easy, paved half-mile loop with slight elevation through incredibly lush rainforest, bamboo, ferns and wild orchids, so it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The verdant jungle will amaze you, and along the way you’ll get glimpses of the payoff: the stunning Akaka Falls cascading down into a picturesque pool.
Find serenity and beauty at Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo. This stunning 30-acre Japanese-style garden, gifted by Queen Liliʻuokalani, offers a tranquil escape with its meticulously landscaped grounds, koi ponds, pagodas, and arched bridges. Stroll through the gardens, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the beautiful views of Hilo Bay and Coconut Island. Liliuokalani Gardens is a testament to the island’s cultural diversity and offers a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection
Discover the historical and natural significance of Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. This is the site where Captain James Cook first arrived in Hawaii and where he ultimately met his demise. Snorkel or kayak in the bay’s clear waters, exploring the underwater paradise. Visit the Captain Cook Monument located across the bay (accessible by boat or a challenging hike). Kealakekua Bay offers a blend of historical importance and exceptional natural beauty.
Pay homage to King Kamehameha the Great at the iconic statue located in Hilo. This impressive bronze sculpture commemorates the powerful aliʻi (chief) who united the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom. Learn about his significant role in Hawaiian history and admire the regal depiction of this important figure. The statue stands proudly in front of the judiciary complex and serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the islands
Indulge your senses along the scenic Kona Coffee Coast, a fertile region renowned for producing some of the world’s finest coffee. Drive through rolling hills dotted with coffee farms, learn about the coffee-growing process from bean to cup, and sample the rich, aromatic brews. Many farms offer tours and tastings, providing a delightful and educational experience. Beyond coffee, the Kona Coast also boasts beautiful beaches, historical sites like Mokuʻaikaua Church, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities
