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Western USA Tours & Trips

From the illuminated sunset strip of Las Vegas and the cactus-filled plains of Joshua Tree to the bright red bridge that dominates San Francisco and California's Disneyland where dreams come true. The West Coast of the USA is a paradise offering a range of adventures for the whole family no matter what time of year . Embark on a cruise to Alaska or opt for some time out in Yosemite , the possibilities are endless on a vacation America's West Coast.

250+ Western USA tour packages with 12,449 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

USA - Las Vegas, Sedona & the Monument Valley

• Mountain Hikes
• Hiking & Trekking

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

It was a wonderfully beautiful tour! The guide Hogan was a perfect guide and driver! Thank you very much!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure

was very good, MS. RACHEL DE GENNAO BEST OF THE BEST WOMAN. SHE EXELLENT ORGANIZER, SHE HAVE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT ALASKA, SHE IS VERY FRIENDLY AND BEAUTIFUL GIRL. I BE GLAD HAVE DAUGHTER LIKE SHE. STEVE VEPRIK. ,

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

All We Could Have Asked For and More! We recently returned from the ""7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour"". Our tour was led by Kaitlyn Usher. The tour was wonderful, everything was near perfect and Kaitlyn is one of the kindest, hardest working and knowledgeable guides we've ever had! I had mentioned that my husband was turning 70 on the 1st day of the tour to someone at Bindlestiff 2 weeks before the tour and Kaitlyn had a small birthday cake and candles on that first lunch stop! What a nice surprise for my husband. Most anything we asked of her was taken care of and questions answered. We just can't say enough good things about her! The itinerary of the tour was great, we saw and did everything we wanted to do. The van was comfortable and kept clean by Kaitlyn every night. Plenty of items for the picnic lunches (a super idea). She always had options to match physical abilities. The 50 minute ride over the Grand Canyon (optional) was spectacular, the heliport is a distance from the rim, so be sure to do the longer ride to have enough canyon viewing time. The optional Hummer tour was very exciting and scary (in a good way). Thank you for a wonderful birthday trip and great memories!

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon – 3 days

Lorenzo was a wonderful guide. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Our driver Donald was awesome! Very professional and skilled. My children and I enjoyed our tour very much.

California Express - 3 Days

Could have been better

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

This trip was fantastic! The group totaled 4 plus the guide Cade. We were not disappointed in wildlife viewing. We saw Black wolves, elk, big horn sheep and bison were up close and personal. Cade is an excellent guide and the trip would not have been the same without him. Cade knows both Teton and Yellowstone National parks like the back of his hand. He answers all questions and is an easy person to be around. Did I mention black bears, moose, Old Faithful and more. Fantastic trip! For birders, the bald eagle feasting on carcass and several other raptors. But, communication from Brushbuck is only when necessary for them. Don't let it stop you though. Hotels were luxe and transportation too. Loved it!

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

This trip was amazing. This was a bucket list trip for my daughter and I. From the beginning when we met our tour guide, Dave showater to the end. Dave was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and did fantastic driving and picked fantastic restaurants along the way. I would highly recommend this trip. The parks were excellent.

Western USA National Parks Loop

This was a great tour, I highly recommend

Vegas to San Fran

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Wynn was a wonderful guide. Hotels were very nice. No complaints about anything. This is an amazing adventure and the entire trip was flawless.

Majestic Alaska (10 Days)

This was the best tour I’ve EVER been on. From the people to the places, it was a wonderful adventure. Trafalgar’s Alaska staff may have ruined me for all other tour companies.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of the Canyonlands (7 Days)

Great tour of a vast part of our country. Knowledgeable tour director.

Alaska Denali Expedition - 12 Days

It was my fist time camping and it was an unforgettable experience. Thanks to Alaska I have stories to tell and never forget. ????????????⛴⛺️⛰????????????

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Western USA Tours

We thoroughly enjoyed the 7-day tour of the US southwest . We love the destinations included in the tour, every place we visited is on our bucket list. I wanted to pinch myself every day that I visited those iconic and beautiful places as shown in my photos below. We enjoyed all the extra, optional experiences that were suggested by the tour guide. They added more fun to the tour. The Hummer tour in Moab, Utah was one of the optional experiences and it was a blast! Not only it’s fun, you get to see the amazing scenery during the sunset. One previous review mentioned he or she was forced to participate in the Navajo taco dinner in Monument Valley. That comment is not true. You have a choice not to do that and the guide can make a different arrangement for you. The optional Navajo taco dinner is one of the highlights of the tour that we will remember for a long time. It would be a shame not to have this cultural experience when you get to meet Navajo people when you are in the Navajo Nation! Our tour guide, John did a fantastic job. He was full of enthusiasm and energy. He kept the tour well organized and always provided information we needed. We highly recommend the tour.

Everything was great organized, our CEO Megan was so kind and well prepared.

Great adventure trip. Guide Joseph is personable and attentive to the needs and quirks of each traveler. His extensive knowledge of the region's geology, history, animals and plant life enhanced our incredible trip. He gave us recommendations for hikes commensurate with individual abilities in Zion and Bryce Canyon national Parks. Joseph led hikes in the spectacular Arches and Canyonlands National Parks where we spent 2 nights in Moab, Utah. Some of our group chose to relax in Moab on the second day, while the rest of the group hiked different trails for more amazing views. Next were the stunning views of Monument Valley and Navajo Nation followed by a snowy Grand Canyon. Optional side trips: Antelope Canyon should not be missed. The Navajo taco dinner was tasty and informative. The hummer tour was unremarkable. Unfortunately, weather grounded the Grand Canyon helicopters.

Western USA Tours starting in:

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• Spring 2024 (241)
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Other Regions in USA

• Sun Belt (454)
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International Versions

• Deutsch: Westamerika Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Ouest des États-Unis
• Español: Circuitos por Oeste de EEUU
• Nederlands: West-USA Rondreizen

West Travel

Discover our tours, 3,5-hour sightseeing tour to dynjandi waterfall, 2-hour tour to bolafjall view platform, ísafjörður hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus.

We are an established bus and coach company that has been serving locals and tourists for many years. Cruise ships and private tours. Our mission is to provide safe and reliable service. No project is too big or small, we customize each trip individually according to the needs of each group, with the possibility of all including trips, even including the good mood.

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United States Tours & Vacations

With coastlines, forests, deserts and mountains, the United States is an explorer's paradise.

Magical moments are waiting around every corner in The States. From the rugged wilderness and glacial fjords in Alaska to the winding coastal highways in California , the wide array of national parks to the musical streets of New Orleans , this country is simply sprawling. So whether you're hiking, biking, toe-tapping or road-tripping, you can't go wrong exploring the USA the Intrepid way.

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Western USA National Parks Loop

LA to Vegas: Grand National Parks

Articles of United States

California or Florida? Which US state should you travel to?

Make a paw-sitive impact at Utah’s Best Friends Animal Sanctuary  

This astronomer is chasing his 21st solar eclipse in 2024 (and bringing some lucky Intrepid travellers with him)

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

10 awesome places to go for your 21st birthday

Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to?

The top 7 destinations for travel in September 2024

What to expect on a wolf tracking tour in Yellowstone National Park

United States departures by month

Browse usa trips by region, browse usa trips by state, browse usa national park tours, united states at a glance, capital city.

Washington DC (population, 712,816)

331.9 million

English, Spanish (although the US has no official languages)

(GMT-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about United States

Best time to visit united states.

Being such a large country, the weather in the US is different depending on which area you are in. Summer (June to August) is the peak travel season due to school holidays, but it can be uncomfortably hot in the desert areas and the south.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are generally considered to be the best times to visit, but the weather is still highly variable and these may be the wettest times in some parts of the country (such as the Pacific Northwest ). Winter can be cold in the northern states, but quiet in other areas, which can make it a pleasant time to visit.

Read more about the best time to visit the United States

Culture and customs

With immigration playing a major part in the development of America, today the country is made up of many different cultures. It’s no wonder modern America is rich with a variety of cultural traditions, cuisines, religions and festivals. Because of this, a large diversity of holidays are celebrated in America. Annual holidays like  Independence Day  and Thanksgiving are usually celebrated by all regardless of religion or political persuasion, and give people a chance to reconnect with family and friends around the dinner table or grill.

From sports to soul music, popular culture to philosophy, and fine art to folk art, the tastes and desires of Americans vary around the country. A love of sport unifies the nation - it doesn’t matter if you live in a city loft or out in the country, sports like ice hockey, basketball, baseball and football all attract a strong following.

Many Native Americans live on reservations and fight to retain their traditions and preserve their heritage, although when visiting reservations don’t be surprised to see Native Americans wearing modern clothing. With much of the language and many of the customs lost over the years, Native Americans strive to live a life of deep spirituality and in connection with the earth, as their ancestors did for centuries.

Check out our range of  experiences in the United States that amplify BIPOC cultures .

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways to experience a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savouring cheap eats or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. 

With a variety of international influences, try Creole cuisine in New Orleans, traditional Jewish fare like bagels and pastrami sandwiches in New York, and barbecue in Texas. America’s got everything, from burger joints to taco shacks, organic cafes to refined Michelin-starred restaurants.

Learn more about food in the USA

Geography and environment

From the lush everglades of Florida, through the red-hot deserts of Nevada and on to the urban jungles of New York and Philadelphia, the United States has many different environments and ecosystems within its boundaries. Sharing borders with Canada in the north and Mexico in the south, the United States has deserts, glaciers, freshwater lakes, rapid-filled rivers, mountain ranges, sprawling plains, forested national parks , beaches and bays.

The major national parks of America – Yellowstone, Zion, Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, Denali and Joshua Tree offer a glimpse into what much of America looked like before development. Lush vegetation, majestic mountains and sparkling lakes give deer, moose, bears, bison and many other species of wildlife a fertile home to live in. 

When traveling, you’re likely to see modern cities filled with traffic, skyscrapers and high-density housing, as well as sleepy towns, trailer parks and Native American reservations. A complex network of highways connect the major cities, making overland travel a popular choice with visitors and locals alike. The great American road trip is still alive and well.

History and government

As one of the world’s most influential nations, major moments and events in American history ripple throughout the rest of the world. The American people are known for their resilience and irrepressible nature, and it is this spirit that allows them to continue to contribute to the world economically, scientifically and creatively.

In recent history, America has enjoyed the historic highs of the moon landings and the devastating lows of Hurricane Katrina. The world has seen American companies like Apple, Facebook, Microsoft and Starbucks change the face of the world. And people like Steven Spielberg, Lance Armstrong, Maya Angelou and Sidney Poitier create masterpieces, break records and win countless awards.

Top 10 must-see cities in the US

1. new york.

You can be anyone you want to be in NYC. Indulge your artistic side at MoMA, mingle with the Gordon Geckos on Wall Street, cheer like a pro at a Yankees game or kick back at a bar with a Manhattan and a new pair of Jimmy Choos.

2. San Francisco

San Francisco is made of sunshine, seafood and a whole lot of hills. This is the place to embrace your inner (or outer) bohemian. But it's not all 'flowers in your hair' and free thinking, be sure to take a ferry to Alcatraz and scoff down a clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf.

3. New Orleans

The Caribbean meets France and Africa in New Orleans. Music is everywhere, and so are the friendly faces. The city comes to life after dark so have an afternoon nap, get some comfortable shoes on and get ready to bar hop the night away.

4. Las Vegas

Hello Lady Luck! Days somehow disappear in the hedonistic blitz of color, light, showgirls, casinos and offers too good to refuse. Try to escape the endless buffets to catch a real Las Vegas show; there's everything from death-defying acrobats to Elvis on offer.

The financial and political powerhouse of Chicago has been the home of two of the most influential people in the world - President Obama and Oprah. Famed for its distinctive architecture, booming performing arts scene and sports-mad locals, the 'Windy City' shouldn't be missed.

The air is warmer, the clothes smaller and the colors are somehow brighter in Miami. Jewish, Latin and Caribbean cultures blend to make a heady mix of great food, even better music and a nightlife filled with the spirit of fiesta. Hang out on perfect beaches, spot classic cars and gaze at the beautiful people as they strut their stuff.

7. Los Angeles

Search beyond the stardust of Hollywood and the excessive price tags of Rodeo Drive, to find the true essence of Los Angeles. Home to a melting pot of cultures, uber-cool restaurants, a hip art scene and the eclectic vibe of Venice Beach, LA is so hot right now!

The birthplace of grunge music and iconic super-companies like Microsoft, Boeing and Starbucks, Seattle offers so much more than great coffee. Markets packed with fresh produce, a harbor perfect for boating, vibrant public art and a thriving live music scene combine to make Seattle a must-see city.

History comes alive in the heritage-filled streets of Memphis. Whether it's at Elvis Presley's Graceland, the lively blues clubs and restaurants of Beale Street or the moving Civil Rights Movement Museum, it could be said that the soul of America lives in Memphis.

One of America's oldest cities, Boston is evolving. Working class neighborhoods are being gentrified, the industry is giving way to tech start-ups and modern architectural treasures sit alongside brown-stone buildings. Despite the change, get chatting to locals about the Red Sox and you'll soon find you're definitely in Boston.

It’s no wonder many people choose to do their clothes shopping in the United States. With iconic department stores offering a wide range of labels, and vintage/charity stores stocking American fashion classics like distressed denim jeans and leather cowboy boots, shopping in America is fun. Known for having great sales and even better customer service, it’s well worth leaving room in your backpack for a few extras. Please note that unlike in many other countries, tax isn’t included in the ticketed price.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Festivals and events

Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, marks the end of the Carnival season in New Orleans. Witness a chaotic collision of lively music, colorful costumes, masquerade masks, soul food and joyful 'krewes' at the parades, parties and masquerade balls in late February every year.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is an annual festival celebrated on 5 May to mark the day when an army of 4,000 Mexican soldiers defeated the French Empire in the Battle of Puebla in  Mexico .

Learn more about festivals in the USA

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips, and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from all major cities in the United States. The options below may be of interest:

Tours from Los Angeles to San Francisco  

Tours from New York to New Orleans

New Orleans to Atlanta Tours

Tours from Los Angeles

Tours from Las Vegas

Thinking about traveling to California or Florida but need help deciding?

California or Florida?

Top USA travel highlights

1. venture to the wilds of alaska.

Alaska  may be part of the USA, but it feels like another world. With stunning mountain ranges, eclectic wildlife, immense glaciers and an interesting history, this off-track destination is well worth the journey north. Whether you want to go hiking in  Denali , snowshoe across Matanuska Glacier, kayak in  Kenai Fjords  or see the northern lights, adventure awaits.

Explore the Last Frontier on our  10 day Best of Alaska tour.

2. See San Francisco through local eyes

With vibrant, multi-cultural neighbourhoods and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a city you could spend weeks exploring. But to really get a feel for the place, you need to explore with a local. Sample the freshest seafood in Fisherman's Wharf, discover the North Beach and Little Italy districts, and dine at some of the locals' favourite spots for dinner.

Roam around Northern California and beyond on our  9 day San Francisco to Seattle trip.

3. Explore phenomenal national parks

From larger-than-life Yosemite to the great gaping chasms of the Grand Canyon , national parks in the States are big, bold and beautiful. Escape the hustle of everyday life and uncover the natural beauty, diverse wildlife and Native American history in the likes of Bryce Canyon, Zion and Yellowstone. Whether you want to hike or cycle, stay in comfy lodges or camp in the wilderness , US national parks offer something for all kinds of adventurers.

4. Track wolves in Yellowstone National Park

The world’s first national park positively brims with more hot springs, mud pots and geysers than you can possibly see in one trip. But one of the most memorable things you can do is rise before dawn to join a  wolf-tracking excursion  with a local guide. As well as learning about one of nature's most intriguing animals, if you're lucky, you may see multiple wolves playing together, eating, or looking after young cubs.

Try your hand at wolf tracking on our  6 day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Adventure  or our  Yellowstone and Grand Teton Family Holiday .

5. Visit the legendary Sun Studio in Memphis

Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins… what legend hasn’t recorded here? Sun Studio in Memphis is one of the pinnacles for music lovers traveling in the States. It’s where rock and roll was born, and where soul music hit the big time via Stax Records. After checking out the studio, head to Beale Street to grab a drink and have a boogie in traditional blues clubs.

Scoot your boots on our  6 day Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans tour.

6. Take a Navajo jeep tour of Monument Valley

Learn about the cultural heritage and sacredness of Monument Valley from those who know it best. After a jeep adventure with a local Navajo guide, join the locals for an authentic Navajo dinner around a campfire and listen to traditional songs and stories passed down through the generations.

Discover the American West's most iconic landscapes on our  5 day Western USA National Parks Loop tour.

Further reading

United states travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to United States?

It depends on where you’re from. Many countries now operate under the United States Visa Waiver Program, meaning a visa isn’t required for stays of up to 90 days for travel purposes. There are 40 participating countries, including the United Kingdom , Australia , New Zealand, Germany and Spain.

If you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain a letter of authorization before you travel to the States. This can be obtained by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ).

If you’re a national from a non-participating country of the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a non-immigrant visa. Please see the Department of State website for more information.

If you have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on or after 1 March 2011, you are ineligible and must apply for a non-immigrant visa instead.

People from a participating country who are also citizens of Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan must also apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Last updated: 6 March 2024 

Is tipping customary in the US?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in the United States. Tips are expected at restaurants, cafes and diners, as well as by taxi drivers, valet attendants, porters and hotel maids.

People working in the service industry generally receive low wages and therefore rely upon tips as a major source of income.

In general, leave 15 to 20% of the bill at places serving food and a few dollars to bartenders and hotel staff who provide a personal service like carrying bags or cleaning your room.

What is the internet access like in the US?

Internet access is excellent in the US, and internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in the US?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in most parts of the US although coverage may be patchy in remote, mountainous areas like national parks and canyons. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in the US?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in the US.

What will it cost for a…?

Prices can vary between states, but on average, here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Cup of coffee = USD $2-5.00 for a regular cup, up to $8.00 for a specialty coffee
• Hotdog from street cart = USD $4.00
• Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = USD $20-40 per person
• NYC one-way subway ticket = USD $3.00

Can I drink the water in the US?

Drinking water from taps in the US is considered safe unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the US?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores in the US. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in the US?

ATMs are common in the US, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What kind of transport will I use in the United States?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. 

Depending on which trip you're on while in the US, you may find yourself traveling by:

Be amazed by enormous glaciers and stunning, icy landscapes while traveling on a ferry in Alaska.

Use pedal power to see the best of Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Cycling is a great way to see the sights and be active at the same time.

Take in the sights while enjoying a ride on one of San Francisco’s icons – the streetcar.

What sort of accommodation will I stay in while traveling in the United States?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible. 

When traveling with us in the US you may find yourself staying in a:

Spend a night sleeping in a hogan – a traditional Navajo structure made of logs, mud and stone and built with an open roof to view the sparkling night sky.

Reconnect with nature and enjoy staying in quaint log cabins throughout the country's beautiful national parks. Fall asleep to the rustling of trees and wake up to the sounds of birds.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip to the United States support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to the United States directly support our foundation partners, Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) and the Grand Canyon Conservancy.

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA)

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) create inclusive, equitable opportunities for small Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses in the USA. Donations help CHEA provide access to industry-specific technical assistance, capacity building, and industry networks for small BIPOC travel and tourism businesses through their Diversity Tourism Academy (DTA). Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Find out more or make a donation

The Grand Canyon Conservancy

The Grand Canyon Conservancy is on a mission to protect the Grand Canyon National Park for future generations. With almost 6 million visitors to the park annually, the Grand Canyon Conservancy runs educational programs and immersive experiences that teach people about the park's cultural and environmental significance. Donations support trail restoration and maintenance, conservation and preservation of native vegetation and wildlife, and educational programs. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

What public holidays are celebrated in the US?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 16 Jan: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday
• Last Monday in May: Memorial Day
• 4 Jul: Independence Day
• First Monday in Sep: Labor Day
• 2nd Monday in Oct: Indigenous Peoples' Day
• 11 Nov: Veterans Day
• Fourth Thursday in Nov: Thanksgiving Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day

Please note: United States public holidays may vary.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

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New for 2024: Smaller Group journeys!

Thanks to feedback from our guests, we're pleased to introduce Smaller Group departures averaging 15 guests. Limited space still available.

View Smaller Group Journeys

Behind the Scenes

A Closer Look At Tauck

Travel with the "world's best", named to the travel + leisure® "world's best awards" list for 26 consecutive years.

In each of the last 26 years, Tauck has been honored in the Travel + Leisure "World's Best Awards," celebrating the very best in luxury tours, river cruises, hotels and more. Over nearly a century, as a family-owned travel company, our values and vision have remained true to our founding tenets – and we're extremely grateful for the recognition our guests and the industry have awarded us.

Awards & Accolades

A Celebration of Roses

We could think of no better way to launch our 100th anniversary year than by bringing back A Celebration of Roses, combining small group sightseeing tracks by day with exclusive private gala evening events held in premier venues. You'll view the iconic 2025 Pasadena Tournament of Roses® Rose Parade, with an opportunity to attend the 111th annual Rose Bowl Game (at additional cost).

Best-Selling Journey in North America

America's Canyonlands

You'll experience three amazing national parks – Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Grand Canyon National Park – including a private yacht dinner cruise on Lake Powell and a night at a wilderness lodge on the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

View America's Canyonlands

Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park

Guided exploration in Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Glacier national parks, with a wild west welcome dinner, a mountain photography lesson at Lake Louise, a private lake cruise, a ride aboard a vintage "Jammer" bus, and insider stories about the parks in filmed vignettes by Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan.

Land Tours & Cruises

Explore The Possibilities

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LAND JOURNEYS

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RIVER CRUISES

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TAUCKS EVENTS

What's Trending

Canada's capitals and niagara falls.

Explore four distinctly different cities – Toronto, Ottaway, Montreal and Quebec City – with a local perspective.

Attend the 136th Rose Parade from premier seating and enjoy exclusive gala evening events throughout.

Northern Spain, Rioja Valley and Madrid

The perfect blend of art and architecture, natural beauty, historic treasures and delectable cuisine.

Spain and Portugal

Uncover the rich cultural legacies within the Iberian Peninsula that span centuries and borders.

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

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West Shore Recreation Commission

Cherry Blossom Cruise March 28 or April 2 Cost:  BOOKED FULL

Click on the picture for detailed trip information

New York City - On Your Own April 13, November 23 or December 21 Cost:  $ 99

Backroads of the Smokies CANCELLED  

Food & Wine of Niagara Falls CANCELLED  

Blue Angels Air Show - Annapolis May 22 Cost:  BOOKED FULL

Washington Zoo / Smithsonian June 15 Cost:  $ 7 5

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island July 14 or S eptember 15 Cost:  $1 28

Choptank Riverboat & Crab Feast July 18 Cost:  $1 89

Scenic Mountains of Maine & NH September 16-20 Cost:  $1944

Fall Foliage in Vermont September 30 - October 4 Cost:  $2334

Potomac Eagle Train Oc tober 6 Cost:  $234

Fall Longwood Gardens & Winery Oc tober 17 Cost:  $TBA

Mount Vernon Estate & Gristmill October 20 Cost:  $102

Christmas in Newport November 22-24 Cost:  $1,273

Christmas at Longwood Gardens December 3 or 12 Cost:  $99

Gaylord Christmas with ICE & The Wheel December 12-13 Cost:  $649

Trip information.

All Trips Escorted by Wolf's Bus Lines

West Shore Recreation Commission continues its partnership with Wolf’s Bus Lines to offer more trip destinations without needing to fill an entire bus.  

Our group will be combined with other passengers from several other pick up locations.  

Pick up and drop off will be at the Sportsman's Warehouse parking lot (Capital City Mall, 3500 Capital City Mall Drive, Camp Hill, PA) and/or the Four Points Sheraton (1650 Toronita St, York, PA) instead.  

Additional alternate pre-determined pick-up/drop off locations available, please inquire by calling the Rec Office at 717-920-9515.  

All tours will be escorted by staff from Wolf’s Bus Lines  

Wolf’s uses modern motor coaches equipped with restrooms and air conditioning  

Smoking and alcoholic beverages are not permitted  

Gratuity for the bus driver/escort is not included in the price listed  

The right front seats are reserved for the trip escort  

Please register early!  We must reach a minimum of participants at least 45 days prior to departure.  Should we have to cancel, you will receive a full refund.  

Brief stops are typically made at fast food restaurants when the travel time is over 2.5 hours each way  

Payment in full is required for all single-day trips. All multi-day trips require a $50 deposit per person with the remaining balance due 60 days prior to the trip departure date.  Without payment in full by due date, deposits will be forfeited and reservation cancelled.  

Cancellations & Refunds  

Single-Day Trips - ​notify West Shore Rec at least 45 days before the trip to receive a refund (unless stated otherwise)  

Multi-Day Trips - notify West Shore Rec at least 45 days before the trip to receive a refund. After that, refunds will only be available if a replacement can be found  

All trip refunds are subject to a $10 per person administrative fee  

Trip Insurance - available through Wolf's Bus Lines

Wolf's Bus Lines' policies  

Sportsman's Warehouse

located next to Capital City Mall along route 15 in Camp Hill  

The Four Points By Sheraton - Map

located east of Interstate 83/Route 30 interchange

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DESTINATION EXPERIENCES

• Destinations Experiences

Discover a wide array of curated pursuits and experiences during your Ocean Journey, to suit your every need.

Beyond boundaries, soul-stirring experiences that touch the impossible, from the thrill of supersonic speed to the deepest fathoms of ocean trenches..

There is something within all of us that seeks to touch the impossible; to reach out and fulfil a transcendent need that resonates deep within our being. Our Beyond Boundaries experiences answer that call where opportunities into the unchartered promise profound and personal enrichment.

Whether you seek the thrill of supersonic speed, the silence of polar mountain peaks, the deepest fathoms of ocean trenches, the sense of awe from meeting world-leading intellects and artisans, these experiences are more than one-off wonderments, they are soul-stirring achievements that will forever influence your perspective of the world and your role within it.

• Once-in-a-lifetime experiences
• Designed for individuals or intimate group
• Authentic, difficult to duplicate adventures
• Extreme or remote encounters
• Insight into our planet and its marvels
• Turning dreams into reality

The only remaining question is how far do you dare to go to close the distance between your dreams and reality ?

Jumping off cliffs from 1 meter and up to 10 meters high will be an extreme experience that forces you to face your fears. Adrenaline pumping in profusion, propels that glorifying moment when your feet leave the earth, followed by the exhilaration of splashing into crystal blue waters. The thrill of the moment matched only by the beautiful scenery: sun-kissed limestone cliffs, rugged parched coastline, the sounds of laughter and pure joy. So, what are you waiting for? This is an experience you can jump into, feet first!

Strap yourself into one of most popular jet warbirds ever designed, the sleek and stealth L-39. Start the engine -- and some noise. Taxi. Throttle. Thrust. Your pilot pushes your jet to its limits. Pulling Gs. Piercing clouds. Now you take the stick and dip your wings with the altitude indicator. It’s a white-knuckle ride that will push your limits, both physically and mentally.

Photos and your personal certificate of accomplishment prove your daring to friends.

The sense of adventure washes over you with exclusive rental of Hamneskär Island, one of the most desirable places to visit in all of Scandinavia. A rugged paradise off the west coast of Sweden that’s reachable by private helicopter and RIB boats for your intimate party of two. Wild sea air, chilled champagne, just-shucked oysters, and dramatic stories of the island’s history fuel your sense of adventure. Enjoy back-to-nature pursuits, a gastronomic table of never-fresher seafood then unplug with a relaxing message in the lighthouse.

The ultimate escape for those who wish to experience the luxury of true isolation.

Tailored Experiences

The travel equivalent of haute couture, our tailored experiences are tailor-made for those who seek truly customised arrangements that are both personal and without compromise..

We are pleased to curate your requests for singular, customised arrangements that can be as off-the-beaten-path or utterly indulgent as you wish. Whether yours is an intimate group of two or a larger gathering of family and friends, we can help you adapt a featured destination experience or totally tailor an arrangement that delivers exactly where and what you prefer.

We also extend our private car and driver programme for guests wishing to design their own itinerary. This programme provides the utmost in privacy and flexibility with an appropriately sized luxury vehicle to accommodate your group for either half- or full-day schedules.

Let tropical tides carry you alongside breath-taking shores, anchor off deserted islands where yours are the only footprints, or dive into crystal clear lagoons known only to the most seasoned sailors. When your dream of distant shores includes a private boat or yacht tour, Explora Journeys can connect you with a captain and crew able to deliver all your desires. From plush towels and snorkel gear, chef-driven meals, and perfectly chilled champagne with corks popped precisely at sunset, we can help you navigate an adventure for just you or with only those you prefer onboard.

Our private helicopter experiences let you feel like James Bond on a secret mission to swoop low over vast sand dunes, hover over jagged mountain peaks, set down on glaciers, backcountry bike trails and ski slopes, or amid the most romantic vistas. When only a helicopter can get you where you wish to go, we can help you take to the air for moments that are especially spectacular no matter how logistically remote. The only pre-requisite is having a dream that you wished to be fulfilled.

Whether you wish to hike in the footsteps of Vikings, kayak through narrow river gorges in Southern France, or bike through verdant vineyards in Argentina, we can help you plan your great escape into the outdoors. No matter the mode of your outdoor adventure, we can help you get out there where nature shows off how colossal forces created her magnificent beauty. From delicate ecosystems to underground passages to the top of mighty precipices, our outdoor private excursions will let you touch the soul of Mother Nature.

Enchanting Explorations

Meticulously designed to usher in next-level exclusivity for small, agile groups seeking peerless experiences, and to witness moments that are off limits to most.

Think of our Enchanting Explorations like traveling through the pages of a little black book of secrets that belongs to the fashionable and elite.

Meticulously designed to usher in next-level exclusivity for small, agile groups seeking peerless experiences, and to witness moments that are off limits to most. You may find yourself in a silent Sistine Chapel after it closes to the public. Perhaps you will sail along the coastline of enchanting Mykonos on a relaxing and captivating catamaran cruise of the south coast, home to some of the island’s best beaches. Or indulge in top-line dinner reservations to a restaurant with a 2-year wait list.

The Enchanting Explorations are the definition of distinction for bespoke groups seeking peerless experiences.

• Small, intimate groups
• Tailored, boutique adventures
• Behind-the-scenes experiences
• Expert local explorers for enriching discovery
• Deeper insights into cultures and traditions
• Exclusive culinary experiences
• VIP access to landmark sites and special events

In the Paris of the North, Trømso, you can luxuriate in a Finnish-style sauna, find peace and chef-inspired meals in a zen lounge, and watch whales from a whirlpool, all aboard a one-of-a-kind spa and wellness vessel. Christened the Vulkana, volcano, the former Norwegian whaling boat now creatively overflows with wellness and sauna cultures from around the world. A gracious crew tends to all of your needs and assures that you will never forget such a rare experience that, truly, few people in the world have ever enjoyed.

Since its first curtain call in 1773, the Royal Swedish Opera has taken centre stage in the world of arts. It was even immortalized in an opera by Giuseppe Verdi about the tragic assignation of King Gustav III whilst attending his masquerade ball 1782. Your docent will guide you on an after-hours exploration through the classical building of red velvet, painted ceilings and a grand staircase that leads to the four-tiered auditorium that’s gloriously crowned with chandelier weighing two tonnes. Go behind-the-scenes into the royal apartments, the costume department, a blacksmith’s shop, and insights into props and the Prompter.

The ultimate exploration is to experience a new destination in its purest and most natural form. So, with a nod to the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing”, we have prepared a collection of experiences designed to enhance your health with intimate connections to the natural world.

From the most far-flung forests to misty mountains to peaceful flower-filled fields, our eco-therapy experiences promise to support every aspect of your well-being.

Fun-loving auto aficionados who seek something truly unique can hop behind the wheel of Citroën 2CVs to explore the charming back roads of Normandy. Prized by locals for its personality and vintage style, the 2CV is one of the most desirable cult cars and perfectly suits the setting on a planned route through a picturesque countryside. From the port of Honfleur, visit off-the-beaten-path villages and seaside cafés. Crown your perfect day with cider tasting and a behind-the-scenes tour of a Pays d'Auge farm known for its delicious Pont-l'Évêque cheeses.

Destination Essentials

Our destination essentials offer must-do experiences in unbridled finesse, hidden wonders and little surprises..

Boutique in nature and bolder in adventure, our Destination Essentials expand must-do experiences with hidden wonders that let you see the world from a debonair perspective. 

It’s not enough to just go to Cairo’s Great Pyramids or Rio’s Christ the Redeemer, you must stare face-to-face with our world’s marvels, intimately feel the power of their presence, find yourself tingling with goosebumps and experience it in a way that quenches your thirst to do more than anyone else can experience.

This is our definition of boundless, to go beyond limitations, in a manner that defines the pinnacle of discovery.

• Must-do experiences
• Discovering local highlights through a different lens
• Expert guides and hosts to enhance your discovery
• Culinary tastings through local flavours and traditions
• Full immersions into cultures and customs
• Close-up encounters with the natural world

Our Ocean State of Mind is a state of mind unlike no other, and so too are our signature beach experiences. Within legendary locations, whether sleek and suave or remote and bohemian, we curate the perfect combination of sun, sand, and cocktails for impeccable morning-to-night gatherings. The atmosphere is vibrant with all the right beach-club aesthetics including relaxing lounge chairs, impeccable service, DJs and bands plus a menu of cocktails and cuisine that promises a day at the beach with the highest comforts.

From the first strum of the guitar and dramatic step of a foot, you are captivated. The Andalusian flamenco dance is poetry in motion; a passionate choreography of music, dance and song that is immortalised in Spain’s cultural identity. The stage is set across the threshold of a graceful Andalusian hacienda that is lovingly converted into a multi-storied museum dedicated to flamenco and tapas. This distinctive experience lets you personally delve into how women combine graceful turns with dramatic steps. How guitarists perform with lightning-fast finger-rolls. How castanets are a complicated synchronisation of beats. And how much importance is placed on the wardrobe with a visit to the world’s premier designer of dresses that is considered the Christian Dior of Flamenco. The grand crescendo is a tantalising professional performance served with tapas, wine and passion. Salud!

Follow the Pope and retreat to the private papal escape, the Pontifical Palace of Castel Gandolfo. Step inside the tranquil Pontifical Villas. Behold the beauty of the Apostolic Palace. Enter the private domain of the Pope’s Apartment and enjoy exclusive access to ruins of a Roman Theatre and working Farmhouse, areas usually not available to the public but made possible with Explora Journeys. Lunch at a nearby restaurant continues to nourish the soul with spectacular views and a 1,000-plus bottle wine cellar.

Sip, savour and soak-up Andalusia, the best destination for olive oil, local wine, community and comfort. Flower-line rural roads lead us to the romantically white-washed villages with old stone churches, centuries old olive groves, and charming homes where you are invited to step inside and help grandmothers, abuelas, and mamas prepare tapas in the kitchen.

The conversation and laughter mix with the wine and a myriad of locally harvested almonds, pomegranates, and vegetables. Rustic and soulfully rewarding, a day in the Málaga countryside, surrounded by a crown of mountains, will make you feel whole again.

In-Country Immersions

Traversing beyond the bounds of the ocean, we take you deeper into the culture of the countries we visit with immersive all-inclusive excursions..

In-country Immersions

Our In-Country Immersions whisk you sunward via private jets or hot-air balloons, nimble ATVs or sure-footed horses to chase nearby marvels, events and wilderness treks both famously celebrated or deeply shrouded in mystery.

Designed as three- or more- day overland experiences, our In-Country Immersions are all-inclusive and available to intimately sized groups starting before or after your sailing. All you have to do is let go-and let us immerse you in the extraordinary that lies further afield.

• Luxury transportation such as private jet, flights, vehicles, boats etc.
• 5-star accommodations
• Culinary experiences, including all meals, beverages, and selected spirits
• Ultra-exclusive evening experiences
• Meticulously vetted hosts to coordinate all logistics
• Luxury transportation and luggage handling

Nestled in the cooling jade of a tropical jungle, there is no other place where you will feel more connected to the natural world than when you are standing before Iguazu Falls. Belonging to the realm of superlatives, Iguazu is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 250 falls that stretch 2.7 kilometers and plummet from heights up to 82 meters. Renowned as the largest waterfall system on earth, it is higher than Niagara and wider than Victoria Falls. It also boasts the greatest water volume with an estimated 1 million litres per second. Your fantasy tour takes flight as you are buckled into a helicopter that flutters like a hummingbird over the site. Your accommodation at a celebrated 5-star hacienda-style hotel also has the distinction of being the only hotel within Brazil’s Iguaçu National Park. 

Scotland is a destination of epic proportions. Green glens and rugged coastlines dotted with charming villages where a millennium of fascinating history and traditions are still relevant in a modern world. Helicopters whisk us to remote mountain ridges crowned with rarely seen lochs and staggering vertical drops. Astronomers take us into the “darkest” dark sky park in the UK to study an infinite number of blazing stars. 900 years of tradition call us to a Highland “gathering and games”. And hikes into national parks lead us to picturesque reindeer herds. With accommodations in opulent castles and sumptuous dining experiences, this experience will introduce you to a side of Scotland that even the locals have never come across.

No matter how well-travelled you are, it’s difficult to wrap your mind around the experience of camping on the world’s largest polar ice cap, where vibrant blue ice colours are surreal. Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of Greenland’s hinterland. Two-thirds of Greenland lies above the Arctic Circle and for five glorious days you will too. Under 24 hours of sunlight, we ice climb on glaciers, hop in helicopters to view vast vistas of white at the edge of the ice cap, climb into snow trucks in search of herds of shaggy musk ox grazing on the tundra, and camp outside a remote radar station in off-grid, eco-luxury lodging tents that are environmentally light-on-the-ice yet wonderfully warm and welcoming. Immense landscapes experienced in the most intimate terms. 

Explore the energy that pulses in Warsaw, Poland’s capital of cool. Waltz into its historical UNESCO-protected Old Town for a two-night stay to experience its hottest highlights: reservations at a Michelin-starred restaurant; VIP vodka tasting; private piano concert honouring the city’s son, Chopin; and an after-hours tour of the imposing Royal Castle.

A wealth of culture and leisure awaits in a city where the winds of change now breeze through a festive party that never ends.

Time has no measure in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. Moonscapes and byzantine mysteries, natural beauty and human ingenuity. Your three nights of Turkish delights begins in Istanbul’s top sites including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. We follow the Silk Road to Cappadocia to enjoy whirling dervishes, optional sunrise balloon rides, and an underground city limestone landscape that seemingly melt like white cake icing.

Never have your eyes, mind or soul experienced such wonders.

Journey Enrichments

Let our Explora Experience Ambassadors ease you into your travel experience by taking care of essential arrangements before and after your journey.

       Consult Destination Experiences' Booking Terms and Conditions here .

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Key West Shore Excursions for Your Cruise Itinerary

Travel Guide » Key West Shore Excursions for Your Cruise Itinerary

You’ve boarded your boat, the wind is in your hair and the best days at sea are ahead of you – this is life aboard a cruise ship! The decks are filled with all you could ever imagine, the food is endless, entertainment is available and the range of activities fits the description of words like mega and epic. You can’t even imagine that there could possibly be more… and then you disembark for a shore excursion.

Sailing the seas is a modern-day tradition steeped in the history of voyagers who’ve come before all of us. Their maps were paper and yours are GPS chipped, but the adventurous spirit was welcomed then and now. If you’re headed to Key West, you’re ready for Southern fun, Southern sun, and Southern traditions. As the southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West’s sunset celebrations, island flair, unique and intriguing people, and an extensive array of awesome never seem to disappoint. Whether you’re in flip flops or heels, sundresses, or your favorite sarong – when your ship docks in Key West, you know you’re in for a good time.

Filled with quirky characters and a laid-back vibe, the excursions available in this eclectic city run the gamut of adventure to relaxation, land to sea, and budget to luxurious. Whether you’re hopping on and off a trolley, hitting a champagne sail, hanging with turtles or checking out the conch train, you’re in for a treat of a lifetime keeping memories and stories flowing for decades. Take a walking tour of Duval Street, hang with the likes of Ernest Hemingway, explore with marauding pirates, lift a glass aboard a catamaran, ride the trolley to tour the city’s sights or hit the water on your favorite watercraft – Key West excursions definitely don’t disappoint.

1. Conch Tour Train

This 75-minute tour of the southernmost city takes you to many places of interest, and notable attractions and is sure to put you in perfect focus for an epic sunset at Key West’s Mallory Square.

2. Kayak Tour

Grab your paddle to check out the wildlife of the sea while winding your way through the uninhabited islands of the glittery bay. Follow your guide through the local reserves as you spot marine life, learn the patterns of your winged friends, and check out the life beneath the waves.

3. Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

For over two hours, enjoy our underwater life amidst the Florida Keys. Munch on your snacks and enjoy your refreshments as we traverse the waterways while floating along on our double-decker catamaran. You, your family, and your little ones are all welcome to join along the epic exploration of the water environs.

4. Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour

Stay aboard or head off into the deep blue sea while along the ride of this elaborate excursion. On our more than three-hour tour, we’ll sail the seas while checking out the hues of blues, schools of fish, and colorful world of coral. When you want to jump in and get a bit closer to the action, we’ve got you covered with snorkeling equipment as well as professionals to lend a helping hand.

5. Old Town Trolley Tour

Hop on and off as our trolley ride hits all of the main attractions of this sunset-famed city. Stopping along heritage hotspots such as Sloppy Joe’s and Hemingway’s house, our 90-minute journey keeps you informed, and entertained and entices you to continue to return to our special island home.

6. Sail, Kayak and Snorkel Excursion

This full-day journey takes over five hours but is a fantastic bang for your buck. With three excursions in one, we spend our day in the sun as we sail, snorkel and kayak our way to discovering the mysteries of the underwater world. We’ve got kayaking to islands, snorkeling amidst the sea, and sailing while snacking on chips and salsa – how much better could this possibly get?

7. Tall Ship Day or Sunset Sail

Sailing in Key West is tradition. Hop aboard this two-hour cruise to ride the waves, check out the sights of nature and commune with fellow travelers as you enjoy life on the sea as the magic unfolds around you.

8. Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour

Grab your local guide and head on out for an adventure for both your feet and your taste buds. Amidst the twists and turns of our special city, you’ll hit the likes of Duval Street and Mallory Square. As you wander your way through history, you’ll find the creative culture alive in each establishment, each treat, and each story.

9. Key West Aquarium

The exhibits, galleries and aquatic tanks of the Key West Aquarium enable guests to stay dry while discovering the amazing undersea world that surrounds the Florida Keys. Located on Key West’s celebrated Mallory Square, the aquarium is one of the island’s most admired attractions and has delighted visitors since 1934. It offers numerous displays of the magnificent marine animals that thrive in the warm coastal waters, including sharks, sea turtles and tropical fish. The interactive touch tank features conchs, hermit crabs, sea stars and sea urchins. The Stingray Bay exhibit enables you to feed and touch cownose rays. The Atlantic Shores Exhibit is a 50,000-gallon living mangrove ecosystem that is home to an extensive collection of aquatic and non-marine animal species. You can enjoy the aquarium at your own pace or join a guided tour. Guests also have the unique opportunity to witness and participate in animal feedings. Stop by the Key West Aquarium for the chance to have memorable encounters with alligators, jellyfish and other fascinating creatures inhabiting the waters of the Lower Keys.

10. Key West Bike Rentals

Explore all that the island of Key West has to offer in a revitalizing way by renting a bike. A leisurely ride around Key West on a comfortable beach cruiser enables you to get to know the real culture of the island and view some of its rarely seen sights. You can see various types of historic Colonial and South Florida architecture lining some of the old town’s lesser-known streets, secret lanes and quaint alleyways. The cityscape includes a dazzling display of buildings adorned with vibrant colors along with the aroma of the exotic tropical flowers that bloom throughout the year. Check out the wide variety of trees that have been imported from around the world, and sample fresh fruit, such as key limes, coconuts, mangoes and star fruit. You can also ride to a popular beach or to one of Key West’s famous attractions . A bike rental offers the opportunity to enjoy some exercise in the tropical air while savoring marvelous views, such as the spectacular Key West sunset.

11. Key West Art Galleries

Art has been an important part of Key West since its earliest days. The exotic land and seascapes of Key West have attracted artists of all genres and talents for decades. Stroll around Mallory Square and other popular gathering spots and you will see a variety of local and internationally renowned artists engaged in their craft. Whether it is a scene from old Key West or a modern interpretation, many of these works are also on display in the numerous art galleries that dot the island. These galleries feature original works by up-and-coming artists as well as established award-winners in a variety of media, including photography, sculpture, and oil on canvas. There are also handcrafted pieces ranging from jewelry to pottery using wood, glass or metal. Key West is overflowing with galleries. There are shops on Mallory Square and Truman Avenue as well as Duval and White streets featuring a wide variety of artists, styles and prices. Key West also sponsors the Old Island Days Art Festival, an annual two-day event that celebrates works by local talent.

12. Truman Little White House

A wintertime destination for numerous U.S. presidents, including Harry Truman, Dwight Eisenhower and John Kennedy, the historic military housing was built in 1890. The building, once the residence of the naval station’s commanding officer, has been transformed into a living history museum. The estate was the setting for numerous important meetings between the nation’s leaders during the Cold War and the Civil Rights Movement. It holds a special place in history as the setting where the outlines for the Marshall Plan and the Truman Doctrine were developed. Various legendary inventors, dignitaries and other influential people have visited this southern White House. The building features original furnishings dating from President Truman’s time here. Tours during shore excursions enable visitors to travel back in time as they explore the site and view rooms where Truman lived and worked. Items on display include personal effects like his famous “The Buck Stops Here” sign on the desk.

13. Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

Relive Key West’s legendary past with admission to the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum. Explore 400 years of Florida history as you tour two floors of artifacts chronicling some of the most famous shipwrecks off the coast of Key West. Displays include treasures from 17th- and 18th-century Spanish galleons, including a 64-pound silver bar. Featuring actors dressed in period costumes, documentary films and interactive exhibits, the museum brings to life the island’s unique maritime heritage that once made it the richest city in the country. Guests can get a feel for what it was like to live aboard a 19th-century vessel. Discover the fascinating world of shipwreck salvage in the Below the Sea Theater. Learn the story behind the salvage of the Isaac Allerton, the richest shipwreck in Key West history . Climb the 65-foot-tall watchtower for spectacular views of the surrounding waters.

14. Best Key West Happy Hours

Boathouse Bar and Grill features a breezy Key West port waterfront location and a laid-back island vibe. Situated on Front Street, it is the perfect setting to relax after a day of exploring Duval Street or enjoying Key West shore excursions. Patrons enjoy half-off a wide assortment of appetizers and draft beers during happy hour.

The Porch offers guests quality wines and craft beers that change weekly at discounted prices in downtown Old Key West. Cruise guests can step back in time and enjoy artwork as well as ghost tales inside the historic Porter Mansion. The friendly spirit of Dr. Porter is still reputed to haunt his former home.

Renowned for its oysters, Alonzo’s Oyster Bar features indoor and outdoor seating and one of the best happy hours in Key West. The waterfront location on the Historic Seaport offers marvelous views, half-priced drinks, and appetizers that could easily serve as a meal.

Located on the historic Key West port, the Schooner Wharf Bar is known for its Old Key West atmosphere. It features a wreck salvage décor and views of one of the largest working schooner fleets in the country. A favorite local watering hole, the bar offers guests extended happy hours as well as live music when the sun goes down.

Located at the southern end of Duval Street, the Southernmost Beach Café offers reasonable deals on waterfront dining and drinks. This open-air restaurant serves a wonderful happy hour menu of reduced-priced food and drinks. Select from an assortment of happy hour appetizer specials, grab your draft beer to go, and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean as you stroll on the warm sand.

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Molde – Atlantic Ocean Road & Varden Audio Tour

Åndalsnes – Trollstigen and Trollwall Audio Guide Bus Tour

Molde - Varden Viewpoint Shuttle

Molde – Fishing Village Bud and Atlantic Ocean Road

Molde - Get a feeling of the Atlantic Ocean

Molde - Varden Hike

Ålesund – Kingdom of the Trolls

Ålesund – Sightseeing and Viking saga islands

Åndalsnes – Meet the Trolls

Molde and the hidden fjords

Molde City Walk – On tour with the Rose Maiden

Kristiansund – Atlantic Ocean Road and Fishing Village Bud

Kristiansund – Kvernberget and Varden viewpoint

Kristiansund – A taste of Kristiansund

Kristiansund – havstien hiking tour.

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Key West Shore Excursions

Iconically margaritaville.

Margaritaville may be located "somewhere between the Port of Indecision and Southwest of Disorder," but there is no physical location so synonymous than Key West, Florida. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking to parasail over breathtaking coral reefs or just needing for a sandy, salty place to land, our hand-picked Shore Excursions offer a wide variety of ways to explore the rich and vibrant crown of the Keys. We can't help it if you won't want to leave...

Why Book With Margaritaville at Sea?

Your vacation matters! That's why we work with trusted partners to deliver the best possible experiences on- and off-shore. Book with our experienced Shore Excursion team, who can help find the best tour and value for your party and work directly with our tour and attractions partners at all our destination ports.

• Peace of mind if your tour runs longer than expected! Enjoy your day ashore worry-free with our approved operators and the ship will be here when you get back, even if your tour runs long (just don’t miss your pre-scheduled transportation time).
• Transportation through our preferred providers is always included.
• We only utilize preferred and vetted shore excursion partners for quality and consistency.
• In the unlikely event of an accident, we only work with insured providers and partners.

Jet Ski Adventure

Discover the natural beauty of Key West on this jet ski tour led by expert guides. When you need a break from the fun, hop off your jet ski to enjoy the famous sandbars of the Florida Keys.

Parasailing

See Key West from brand new heights on your parasailing adventure, and take in panoramic views of vibrant coral reefs, turquoise waters, and picturesque landscapes.

Walking West Pub Crawl

Visit some of Key West's most famous and entertaining establishments on this 2.5-hour walking Key West Pub Crawl.

Catamaran Sail & Snorkel

Swim alongside vibrant wildlife when you visit one of the largest reefs in the world on the Catamaran Sail & Snorkel tour.

Key West Bike Tour

Cruise through the vibrant city and learn about the rich history of Key West on this 3-hour, laid-back beach cruiser bike tour.

Best Of The West

Get the most out of your visit on shore by booking a fun-filled excursion. Call to enhance your reservation today.

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Fun Adventures in Western Canada

Live the Adventure!

Join our social club, all fun in one team.

LAST CHANCE: Spend 2 nights in Banff on our magical Rockies Winter Premium tour! 

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Welcome to West Trek!

Created in 1995, West Trek is a division of Discover Canada Tours for budget-conscious students, young adults and young-at-heart travellers.

We are all about fun and adventures. We offer tours, events and activities that provide authentic and transformational experiences in Vancouver and Western Canada. Discover the wilderness and most iconic destinations, such as the Canadian Rockies, Whistler, Victoria, Tofino, The Yukon, and even travel across the border to Seattle in the USA!

Our West Trek Social Club also brings the community of local and international students together by running weekly and monthly parties, sports events and free social activities.

See For Yourself

We used Discover Canada Tours for our trip to Whistler BC. The views were spectacular and our bus driver / tour guide (Joe Bitgood) was awesome…very knowledgeable on the history of BC and it’s geology. Would highly recommend this excursion and Discover Canada.

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I took the Whistler sightseeing tour with Joe as our guide, it was really great! Joe was very friendly and helpful, informative and knowledgeable about BC and its history; he told us interesting tidbits and stories about the province and Whistler/Blackcomb. I enjoyed being able to do my own thing on the tour, Whistler was beautiful! Thanks again to Joe and Discover Canada Tours!

My family and I booked 4 tours with this company and the first one was by far the best one. Special thanks goes out to Joe Bitgood for taking care of us and ensuring comfort throughout the day while also delivering the true history of British Columbia.

The tour was great! Our tour guide Meaghan was the best. Very nice and knowledgeable. She was funny too! Highly recommended!

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Ancient ruins, city tours and cannoli on a family tour of western Sicily

Start in Palermo and head west for a family adventure featuring street food, ancient ruins and a magical night tour of the city.

Italians may flock to Sicily’s soft sands in summer, but this far-flung Mediterranean island is far more than just a beach destination. Families can scale Mount Etna in giant off-road jeep buses, feast on classic Sicilian sweets and delve into archaeology at well-preserved ruin complexes like the Valley of the Temples. Older kids, meanwhile, can satisfy any gangster fascination by exploring mafia heritage in Palermo and seeking out The Godfather filming sites in the quiet mountain villages. And with the island lying closer to Africa than Rome, its southerly climate makes it a great choice for off-season travels around Easter and October.

Palermo by night

To beat the heat of the Sicilian capital in summer, try venturing into town after dusk for a guided night tour , when Palermo’s landmarks are magically illuminated. The walk can take in city highlights such as the medieval Kalsa district, the Arabesque domes of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, the Norman cathedral of Monreale and UNESCO-listed Zisa palace.

Gangster’s paradise

Unpick the island’s deep-rooted connection with the Sicilian Mafia, known locally as Cosa Nostra, at Palermo’s No Mafia Memorial museum . It explains the origins of the crime cartel and the government’s efforts to quash the organisation after the Second World War. If you’ve got more time, there are also Mafia-related tours taking in the eastern villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro, which were key filming locations for The Godfather — a good bet if you’ve got any movie-mad teens in tow.  

Street-food specialities

Sicily’s original thick-crusted pizza is a must try. There’s a topping for every palate so picky eaters are bound to find something they like; the more adventurous should go for the classic, which includes anchovies, herbs and strong cheese on a passata base. For dessert it’s cannoli, deep-fried pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta, that take centre stage. Arancini — fried risotto balls — are another favourite for a cheap meal on the go. A Palermo street-food tour is a fun way to explore for those whose kids love to try new dishes.  

Sicily’s sweet-making centre

With its sloping cobbled streets and crowning castle, Erice — around 70 miles west of Palermo — has a fairytale quality. But in Sicily this town is best known for its almond pastries — especially those made by local pastry chef Maria Grammatico , whose stories have been immortalised in the biography Bitter Almonds, by Mary Taylor Simeti. Follow the sweet scent of powdered sugar down winding lanes to find her old-fashioned bakery and encourage the kids to order belli e brutti — ‘beautiful and ugly’ — a buttery bite-size pastry laced with almonds and lemon.

Archaeology discoveries

Sicily has more than its fair share of ruins and many of the best are in the west of the island. Closest to Palermo is the fifth-century Segesta Archaeological Park , around 47 miles west of the capital, which offers panoramic views from a Hellenic theatre atop Monte Barbaro. But Sicily’s finest ruins can be found at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento on the southwest coast — a UNESCO World Heritage site with one of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples.  

Volcano tours to Mt Etna

  The east of the island is famed for its succession of exquisite baroque towns in the south and the cone of Mount Etna on the east coast. Towering 3,329 metres high, Europe’s tallest volcano is also one of Sicily’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites — and a family favourite because of how close kids can usually get to the fuming calderas. The trip starts with a cable-car ride up to 2,500 metres, from where 4x4 jeep buses carry travellers higher on guided tours of the lunar-like landscape and smoking volcano craters. Tours are available from Catania, Taormina or Messina, but keep an eye on the local news — Etna last spewed lava as recently as November 2023.  

Where to stay

Villa Igiea Restored at the end of the 19th century by famous Italian architect Ernesto Basile and revamped by Rocce Forte Hotels in 2021, the 124-room art nouveau-style Villa Igiea in Palermo is rich in character. It still retains its frescoes, original furniture and decor with a modern twist, all of which are guaranteed to make kids feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale. Rooms are individually decorated with lovely hardwood floors and luxury marble bathrooms, and it’s located near the port, overlooking an ancient Greek temple.

Verdura Resort Set on more than 500 acres of southwestern Sicilian coastline, the 205-room Verdura Resort offers uninterrupted views of the sea from private balconies or terraces, designed in a fresh and contemporary Sicilian style. The hotel is packed with facilities to make life easy for families, including a 60-metre infinity pool, a handful of clay tennis courts and four restaurants – plus five bars and a massive spa for the adults.

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Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

Minneapolis

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

Los Angeles

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, wear green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Outlook for Eclipse Day? See if History Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, your shot at seeing the spectacle could be lost.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

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How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: March 29, 2024 / 5:01 AM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

A bridge column was hit by a large container ship around 1:30 a.m., sending bridge workers and vehicles into the Patapsco River. A water search for six missing workers turned to a recovery effort Tuesday night.

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.    

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Bridge Collapse
• Patapsco River

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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