Gear up for Spring with these 17 epic adventure vacations

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Spring is the perfect time to shake off the winter slump and dive into something with a little more action. With 17 wild experiences lined up, there’s no excuse to sit at home watching other people have fun. Whether it’s hitting high speeds, testing endurance, or getting a little too close to nature, these trips make a regular vacation look like a nap. Just remember—adventure sounds fun until you realize there’s no WiFi where you’re headed.

A rocky beach with yellow flowers.
7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco. Photo credit: Yayimages.

Omaha: A Guide to The Best Things to Do in The Big O

Downtown Omaha Nebraska at Twilight.
Omaha: A Guide to The Best Things to Do in The Big O. Photo credit: YAY Images.

A mix of history, culture, and outdoor spaces makes Omaha a fun place to visit. The Henry Doorly Zoo is a favorite for families, while the Old Market offers shops and restaurants in a historic setting. Some visitors head to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge for city views, while others check out the art galleries and live music spots. There’s a mix of laid-back and active things to do, making it a good choice for different interests.
Read more: Omaha: A Guide to The Best Things to Do in The Big O

Arch to Skyline: An Epic Road Trip from St. Louis to Chicago

Traffic flowing to and from downtown Chicago at dusk.
Arch to Skyline: An Epic Road Trip from St. Louis to Chicago. Photo credit: YayImages.

Driving between St. Louis and Chicago offers plenty of roadside attractions, small towns, and city landmarks along the way. Some travelers stop at historic Route 66 sites, while others check out state parks for a break from the road. The trip includes famous foods, like deep-dish pizza and toasted ravioli, making each stop a chance to try something new.
Read more: Arch to Skyline: An Epic Road Trip from St. Louis to Chicago

Feeling Broke? 38 Mostly Free Things To Do in San Francisco

Looking up at Coit Tower from the bottom of Telegraph Hill.
Feeling Broke? 38 Mostly Free Things To Do in San Francisco. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Expensive cities don’t have to break the budget when you know where to go. San Francisco has plenty of free activities, from walking across the Golden Gate Bridge to checking out the sea lions at Pier 39. Some neighborhoods offer colorful street art and historic architecture, while parks provide space to relax with a great view.
Read more: Feeling Broke? 38 Mostly Free Things To Do in San Francisco

How To Travel Alone

suitcase packed with lots of stuff.
How To Travel Alone. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Traveling solo means setting your own schedule, choosing your own pace, and seeing what interests you most. Many solo travelers pick destinations like big cities, national parks, or coastal towns where there’s plenty to do without needing a tour group. Some prefer social hostels, while others enjoy quiet spots with room to recharge. No matter the preference, solo travel offers the flexibility to experience places in a personal way.
Read more: How To Travel Alone

Things to Do in Alaska: Adventures Await

A braided river winds through a valley.
Things to Do in Alaska: Adventures Await. Photo credit: YayImages.

Wide-open landscapes, massive glaciers, and unique wildlife make Alaska stand out. Outdoor lovers can see bears and eagles, take boat tours past icebergs, or hike in national parks that stretch for miles. The longer summer days give more time to fit in activities, while winter offers northern lights and dog sledding. Whether on land or water, there’s always something worth checking out.
Read more: Things to Do in Alaska: Adventures Await

Exploring the Gorge: A Guide to Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen State Park. Photo credit: Depositphotos.
Exploring the Gorge: A Guide to Watkins Glen State Park. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Towering cliffs, waterfalls, and winding trails make Watkins Glen State Park a great stop for nature lovers. The gorge path follows a series of waterfalls, some of which flow right under stone bridges. Some visitors come for a short scenic walk, while others take longer hikes to see more of the park. No matter the route, the mix of rock formations and rushing water makes every visit unique.
Read more: Exploring the Gorge: A Guide to Watkins Glen State Park

8 Mostly Free Things To Do in San Francisco

China Town Gate in San Francisco.
8 Mostly Free Things To Do in San Francisco. Photo credit: Yayimages.

Some of the best views in San Francisco don’t cost a thing, from city overlooks to waterfront parks. Walking along Fisherman’s Wharf, exploring Chinatown, or taking in the murals in the Mission District are all free ways to experience the city. Golden Gate Park has trails, gardens, and open fields that make for a good afternoon stop. Even in a pricey city, there are plenty of ways to keep busy without spending money.
Read more: 8 Mostly Free Things To Do in San Francisco

From Waterfalls to Wineries: 10 Things to Do in Michigan

Tahquamenon Falls in Michigan.
From Waterfalls to Wineries: 10 Things to Do in Michigan. Photo credit: YayImages.

Scenic drives, lakeside views, and local vineyards make Michigan a great mix of outdoor and food-focused experiences. Some travelers visit the Upper Peninsula for its waterfalls and rocky shorelines, while others head to the wine country along the west coast. The state’s freshwater beaches feel like ocean shorelines, and small towns offer plenty of good local food.
Read more: From Waterfalls to Wineries: 10 Things to Do in Michigan

Roadside Readiness: Winter Emergency Car Kit

A snowy road in the mountains with a sun shining on it, ideal for testing your emergency car kit.
Roadside Readiness: Winter Emergency Car Kit. Photo credit: Yayimages.

Cold weather road trips come with extra challenges, making preparation key. A winter emergency car kit includes essentials like blankets, a flashlight, and food supplies in case of unexpected delays. Some travelers keep extra windshield fluid and tire traction aids to handle icy conditions. Having the right gear on hand makes winter travel safer and less stressful.
Read more: Roadside Readiness: Winter Emergency Car Kit

Cobblestones to Skyscrapers: Exploring Old Toronto

Distillery District in Toronto.
Cobblestones to Skyscrapers: Exploring Old Toronto. Photo credit: dbrnjhjr.

A mix of historic streets and modern buildings makes Toronto a city with something for every type of traveler. Some areas feature cobblestone walkways lined with restaurants and shops, while others are home to glass skyscrapers and busy markets. The waterfront is a great place to take in the city from a different angle, with ferry rides and lakeside parks offering open views.
Read more: Cobblestones to Skyscrapers: Exploring Old Toronto

Alaska Unleashed: Discovering the Great Frontier’s Larger-Than-Life Wonders

Brown bear fishing in Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park.
Alaska Unleashed: Discovering the Great Frontier’s Larger-Than-Life Wonders. Photo credit: Yay Images.

Few places compare to Alaska when it comes to open landscapes and dramatic scenery. National parks, coastal towns, and remote trails give visitors a range of experiences, from spotting moose and bears to kayaking near glaciers. Some visitors take scenic train rides, while others prefer fishing trips or small-plane tours over mountain ranges. Whether by land, sea, or air, the scale of the state makes every trip different.
Read more: Alaska Unleashed: Discovering the Great Frontier’s Larger-Than-Life Wonders

14 All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico You Need to Visit

Table with food and cocktails on the beach.
14 All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico You Need to Visit. Photo credit: Yayimages.

A vacation at Mexico’s all-inclusive resorts means having meals, activities, and entertainment covered in one price. Some resorts focus on relaxation with spa services and quiet beaches, while others cater to families with water parks and kid-friendly events. Many offer excursions to nearby ruins, reefs, or local towns for a mix of comfort and culture. Whether the goal is adventure or downtime, there’s a resort that fits.
Read more: 14 All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico You Need to Visit

Muskegon State Park: A Hidden Gem on Michigan’s West Coast

Muskegon State Park sign at the entrance.
Muskegon State Park: A Hidden Gem on Michigan’s West Coast. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Sand dunes, forested trails, and miles of Lake Michigan shoreline make Muskegon State Park a favorite for outdoor lovers. Visitors can hike, swim, or even try luging in the winter on one of the country’s only public tracks. Campgrounds and picnic areas make it easy to spend the day outside with family or friends. Each season brings a different way to enjoy the park’s landscape.
Read more: Muskegon State Park: A Hidden Gem on Michigan’s West Coast

The Best Things To Do in St Augustine

Things to do in St Augustine include exploring the historic fort with its impressive courtyard cannon.
The Best Things To Do in St Augustine. Photo credit: Yayimages.

History, waterfront views, and cobblestone streets make St. Augustine a unique spot in Florida. The city’s Spanish forts, old town district, and lighthouse offer a glimpse into the past, while nearby beaches provide a more relaxed experience. Visitors can take boat tours, browse local shops, or try fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. It’s a mix of culture and coastal charm that brings visitors back.
Read more: The Best Things To Do in St Augustine

25 Exciting Things To Do in Vienna, Austria

Horse carriage on the street with people in.
25 Exciting Things To Do in Vienna, Austria. Photo credit: Pexels.

Classical music, historic buildings, and coffeehouse culture make Vienna a well-rounded travel stop. Some visitors come for the famous palaces and opera houses, while others enjoy the city’s museums and local food markets. The old city streets are lined with grand architecture, and parks provide green spaces for a break from sightseeing. With so many layers of history and culture, there’s always more to see.
Read more: 25 Exciting Things To Do in Vienna, Austria

The 15 Best Things To Do in Cozumel

Whole coconut with opened top on the beach.
The 15 Best Things To Do in Cozumel. Photo credit: Pexels.

Clear waters, coral reefs, and sandy beaches make Cozumel a favorite for snorkeling and diving. The island has a mix of laid-back beach clubs, local markets, and Mayan ruins for those who want to see more than just the ocean. Some visitors rent bikes to explore the coastline, while others book boat tours for a different view of the island. Whether in the water or on land, there’s plenty to experience.
Read more: The 15 Best Things To Do in Cozumel

7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco

A rocky beach with yellow flowers.
7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco. Photo credit: Yayimages.

Driving south from San Francisco leads to some of the most scenic spots on the California coast. Big Sur’s rugged cliffs, Monterey’s famous aquarium, and Santa Cruz’s boardwalk each bring something different to the trip. Some stops are great for hiking and ocean views, while others focus on food, history, or entertainment. With each turn along Highway 1, the landscape keeps changing.
Read more: 7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco

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