As the most populous city in the United States with over 8.1 million residents, New York City (NYC) commands a significant impact on global commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education and entertainment. With a humid subtropical climate, NYC is known for its cold and damp Winters, hot and humid Summers, and unpredictable Spring and Fall. The city receives around 49 inches of precipitation annually, which is fairly spread throughout the year. Although hurricanes and tropical storms are rare, they are not unheard of and always have the potential to strike the area.

Nicknamed "The Big Apple", NYC consists of five boroughs: The Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. Best known for its many tourist attractions, such as the Statue of Liberty, United Nations Headquarters, Times Square, and Central Park, NYC is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. With an abundance of world-renown restaurants, cultural diversity, tourist hot spots, sports teams (MLB’s Yankees and Mets, NFL’s Giants and Jets, NBA’s Knicks, MLS’ Red Bulls, and NHL’s Rangers), talented performing arts scene, and the potential to run into someone famous, NYC may very well be your next dream vacation-come-true.

Weather aside, NYC is a great place to spend a night catching a Broadway show, a weekend visiting restaurants and shopping, or a week seeing all of the great attractions and neighborhoods of the city.

Given the size, breadth and reach of the city, it would take an entire website to fully define all that happens and what there is to do! For more information, visit the official city website for New York City at:www.nyc.gov for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

The capital of and the largest city in Massachusetts, Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Regarded as the unofficial "Capital of New England" for its economic and cultural impact within the entire New England region, Boston's rich history helps attract many tourists. With a humid continental climate, Boston typically experiences warm, rainy & humid Summers, cold, windy & snowy Winters, and a mild Spring and Fall (although conditions may vary widely). Best known for its Freedom Trail, Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park, Samuel Adams Brewery, Faneuil Hall and the JFK Presidential Museum and Library, Boston offers a mass of tourist-friendly activities.

One of the top tourist destinations in the USA, Boston attracts over 12 million annual visitors. The highly acclaimed Freedom Trail takes you on a 2.5 mile walking trail that leads you to 16 nationally significant historic sites, where visitors can take in the rich history of the American Revolution. Game schedule permitting, tourists can visit the ever popular Fenway Park, considered one of the best-known sports venues in the world and home to the Boston Red Sox, to watch a game in the oldest Major League Baseball stadium currently in use. While all the available tourist activities are sure to leave you famished, Boston offers excellent dining options to keep your stomach happy! Be sure to check out Rialto for fine dining, or head to Mooo for their delicious dry aged rib eye… whatever your craving, Boston has an answer.

Boston’s deep-rooted culture, eateries, sporting events and historical importance make it an awesome place to check out on your next vacation! Visit the official city website for Boston at: www.cityofboston.gov for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Located along the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, Philadelphia (Philly), The City of Brotherly Love, is the largest city in the state of Pennsylvania with a population of around 1.5 million. With a humid subtropical climate, Philly typically has hot and muggy Summers, mild Fall and Spring, and cold Winters. Precipitation is generally spread throughout the year, with eight to twelve wet days per month. Regardless of the weather, there are many options available for you to experience the best of Philadelphia.

Philadelphia is known for its arts and culture and the attractions in Philly reflect this reputation! One of the top attractions in the city is Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell – boasting the birthplace of our American Constitution. Another great attraction is the Please Touch Museum, where adults and children can learn and explore together, which is perfect if you’re traveling with youngsters. If you’re a US history buff, after visiting the Liberty Bell and Independence hall, be sure to also visit the National Constitution Center. The National Museum of American Jewish History offers dynamic and interesting exhibits that chronicle the history and evolution of the American Jewish community from colonial times and onwards. For you sports fanatics, Philly offers many professional sports teams for your enjoyment such as the 76ers (NBA), the Eagles (NFL), the Phillies (MLB) and the Flyers (NHL). Philadelphia is not only filled with amusement for your mind, but also for your stomach!

Philly is infamous for its hoagies, scrapple, soft pretzels, water ice, Tastykake and of course, the cheesesteak. Two of the best cheesesteak restaurants lay claim to the city, Geno’s and Pat’s, and I urge you to try them both and decide for yourself which one is the best!

Additionally, during the Summer months, Philadelphia is only a short drive away from the famed beaches of the Jersy Shore and Delaware coast. Atlantic City NJ lies about an hour East and is an easy drive for those looking for a weekend getaway.

Philadelphia has a personality unlike that of any other city, and is an ideal travel destination for any vacationer. Visit the official city website for Philly at: www.visitphilly.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Known as the City of Lights and Flowers, Anchorage is the northernmost major city in the United States. It is Alaska’s largest city and constitutes more than 40% of the state’s total population. Having a sub-arctic climate, Anchorage enjoys typically mild summers but can rain frequently. Its latitude causes summer days to be very long and winter daylight hours to be very short. Often cloudy during the winter, you can expect the amount of sunlight you experience to decrease during this season.

The opportunities in Anchorage, recreationally and culturally, far outclass any other city of its size. With some of the best outdoor trails in the country, an in-city ski resort, world-class historical and cultural museums and more than 200 parks, Anchorage offers a plethora of activities for you to experience. The Alaska Zoo calls Anchorage its home and focuses on animals native to Alaska and the Arctic. Kincaid Park has great views of the Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains, and a great place to be “at one” with Mother Nature. If you find yourself in Anchorage in the winter, be sure to visit the Alyeska Ski Resort. With its quick tram to the top, lack of crowds and long season makes it a world-class alpine resort. Plus, it’s in the city limits! To learn more about Alaska’s native people, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Devoted to exhibiting their way of life, this center has brief exhibits and regular performances depicting the Athabascan, Yupik, Inupiaq and coastal nations that have called Alaska their home for centuries!

With so much to do, Anchorage is a prime travel destination for anyone looking for a grand adventure. Visit the official City Website for Anchorage at: www.anchorage.net for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Atlanta, also known simply as the ATL, is the capital and most populous city in the state of Georgia. Atlanta began as a settlement located at the intersection of two railroad lines and was incorporated in 1845. Today, the ATL is a major business city and the primary transportation hub of the Southeastern US. With a humid subtropical climate, Atlanta experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters that can be occasionally cold by the standards of the southern US. The ATL receives abundant rainfall, which is evenly spread throughout the year, though spring and early fall are noticeably drier.

Weather aside, the ATL is a magnificent choice for travelers, especially families, who are looking for a destination that has a wide variety of exciting attractions. Whether your idea of an awesome time is soaking up interesting tidbits at a museum or just enjoying the sights, Atlanta delivers! If you’re traveling with the little ones, kids of all ages love the Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain Park and the World of Coca Cola. For great learning experiences for the whole family, go check out the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, the Federal Reserve Bank, and the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum. Be mindful that admission prices for some of the best attractions can be expensive, so doing the proper research while planning your trip is vital!

When the sun sets, Atlanta transforms into party central. The nightlife here is a testament to the diversity and refinement of this Southern jewel, offering the quality and variety you’d expect from much bigger cities. Midtown and Downtown offer some of the best nightlife, such as Halo and CosmoLava, if you’re in the mood for sleek and modern surroundings with beautiful young revelers. To experience the grittier underbelly of the ATL, head to the Drunken Unicorn and the Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge for some live music, as well as the Clermont Lounge where you can experience live muses. Keep in mind that smoking is still allowed inside ATL bars, and while some establishments have designated smokers’ areas, many do not.

Whether you’re looking to learn and experience a thing or two with the family or rub elbows with the trendy crowd over drinks, Atlanta’s got what you need. Visit the official city website for Atlanta at: www.atlantaga.gov for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

The largest city in the state of Illinois, Chicago is the third most populous in the US, after NYC and Los Angeles, with nearly 2.7 million residents. Located in northeastern Illinois at the southwestern tip of Lake Michigan, Chicago, also known as The Windy City, lies within a humid continental climate zone. Summers are hot and humid, winters are cold, snowy and windy with some sunny days, and spring and fall are mild seasons with low humidity. The city can experience extreme winter cold spells that may last for several consecutive days so be sure to pack a heavy jacket, just in case.

Chicago’s waterfront allure and nightlife attracts hordes of residents and tourists alike. Navy Pier, a bustling 1.5 mile-long boardwalk, attracts over 8 million visitors per year. Lined with restaurants, street performers and small shops selling everything from clothes to toys to Chicago souvenirs, this is the perfect place to visit anytime of the year. The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s great art museums with collections dating from 3,000 B.C. through the present. Even if you’re not an art-enthusiast, you’re bound to witness a few collections and exhibits that will appeal to the right-side of your brain! Explore the Chicago Botanical Garden, the world-renown 385-acre, living museum featuring 23 specialty gardens set on a series of islands and lakes. The Garden is always in bloom, showcasing year-round exhibits, festivals, tours and special events. For you animal lovers, Chicago hosts the Shedd Aquarium and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Both house an abundance of creatures, both small and large, and are perfect choices if you’re visiting Chicago with the family.

The Windy City’s dining scene lays claim to a large number of local specialties, all of which reflect Chicago’s ethnic and working class roots. The nationally renowned deep-dish pizza finds its roots in this city and is a must-try for any and all visitors! The Chicago-style hot dog is a delectable pleasure to your taste buds and will be a constant craving once you’ve tried it. But just remember to add giardiniera instead of ketchup, as applying the latter is frowned upon by enthusiasts of this hot dog style.

Chicago’s abundance of tourist attractions, eccentric culture and scrumptious culinary works make it a prime vacation destination. Visit the official city website for Chicago at: www.explorechicago.org for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Founded in 1841 and incorporated in 1856, Dallas is the third largest city in Texas, the ninth largest in the United States, and home to the third largest concentration of Fortune 500 companies in the nation. Dallas has a humid subtropical climate, though it is located in a region that also tends to receive warm, dry winds from the north and west in the summer, bringing temperatures well over 100°F at times and heat-humidity indexes soaring as high as 117°F. Winters are generally mild, and spring and fall bring pleasant weather to the area.

Sometimes referred to as the “Big D”, visitors of Dallas will find the city overflowing with exciting and fun things to do. This massive, bustling city has something to offer any traveler. Visitors are often overwhelmed by the different opportunities to enjoy, so it is important to carefully plan your trip in advance. The skyline of downtown Dallas is absolutely breath-taking. With dozens of high-rise buildings, the Reunion Tower sticks out the most with its unique styling. Being fifty-stories high and topped by a sphere, the Reunion Tower offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal at the Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck while taking in the panoramic downtown view… definitely a site to see! One of the most beautiful outdoor attractions in the city, the 66-acre Dallas Arboretum showcases incredible seasonal flowers, ornamental shrubs, trees and plant collections in a tranquil setting on White Rock Lake. Children and adults alike enjoy year-round education programs on gardening, art, hand-on science and plenty of outdoor exploration, so wear comfortable shoes. The Dallas Market Center is the most complete wholesale merchandise resource in the world, bringing buyers and exhibitors together for over 50 years. They change their offerings frequently, so be sure to visit http://www.dallasmarketcenter.com/ for upcoming markets.

Dallas is filled with bars offering amazing Happy Hour specials any day of the week. The best areas to go to enjoy a cheerful evening of drinks, fun and entertainment are Uptown, Greenville and Knox-Henderson. The Big D is known for its barbeque, authentic Mexican, and Tex-Mex cuisines. You will find good food in almost every area of the city, so be adventurous! A number of nationally ranked steakhouses can be found in the area, including Bob’s Steak & Chop House (ranked #1 according to the USDA Prime Steakhouses chart), so bring your wallet and your appetite… you’re in for some treats!

The Big D’s authentic arts, music, food, historic landmarks and urban lifestyle make it a remarkable place to visit. With countless festivals, exhibits, events and attractions, Dallas offers a number of opportunities to experience and appreciate the rich diversity of this city. Visit the official city website for Dallas at: www.dallascityhall.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Missouri’s largest city, Kansas City (or simply KC) is well known for its contributions to the musical styles of jazz and blues as well as to BBQ cuisine. Founded in 1838 as the “Town of Kansas”, KC was officially nicknamed the City of Fountains due to its’ over-200 fountains. The city claims to have the second most fountains in the world, behind Rome. Kansas City also has more boulevards than any other city in the world except Paris and has been referred to as the “Paris of the Plains”. KC lies within a humid continental climate with moderate precipitation and the potential for extreme hot and cold. Summer has warm days and mild nights, fall days are mild with cool nights, spring days and nights are mild, and winter is cold with lows occasionally dipping into the single digits. Although located in the “Tornado Alley”, Kansas City has not been hit with a tornado since 1883.

When most people think about Kansas City, they imagine tornadoes, munchkins and the Wizard of Oz, but KC has much more to offer than just Dorothy and Toto. For shopaholics, the Country Club Plaza is a must. Consisting of several blocks of upscale stores, delectable eateries and lovely architecture, the Country Club Plaza caters to any taste. If it happens to be raining, the Crown Center offers a huge indoor complex of shops, restaurants and entertainment, with enough to do to keep you busy all day. If you enjoy the arts, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site are real treats. Kansas City is also home to some interesting museums to feed hungry minds. From the National World War 1 Museum to the Steamboat Arabia Museum to the Airline History Museum, you will not be disappointed!

Now, all this talk about real treats and hunger brings me to all the tasty BBQ available… Kansas City style. For all you BBQ-newbies, what sets Kansas City BBQ apart from the rest is the specific process of slow smoking the meat over a variety of woods, then drenching it with thick tomato and molasses based sauces. My top 5 picks for BBQ in KC are (in no specific order… I encourage you to try them all): Jack Stack Barbeque, BB’s Lawnside Barbeque, Oklahoma Joe’s Barbeque, Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque and Danny Edward’s Famous Barbeque. Believe me, your life will change.

Kansas City’s awesome shopping venues, taste-bud energizing eateries and diverse personality make it a perfect travel destination for individuals and families alike. Just remember to stay on the yellow brick road and not interact with any flying monkeys! Visit the official city website for Kansas City at: www.visitkc.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Miami, known as The Magic City, houses around 5.5 million people in its’ metro area and is a major center and a leader in finance, commerce, culture, media, entertainment, the arts and international trade. With a tropical monsoon climate, Miami has hot and humid summers, short and warm winters, and relatively great weather in the spring and fall. Miami has recorded a triple-digit temperature only once (100°F in July 1942). Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, although hurricanes can develop outside these dates. The most likely time for Miami to be hit is during the peak of the Cape Verde season which is mid-August through the end of September.

The Magic City offers visitors many fun and exciting options to pursue on their vacation. Miami flaunts South Beach, the quintessential hot spot for shopping and partying. The scene certainly lives up to the stereotype of Miami. You'll find surfers catching the waves in a beautifully clean ocean, models wandering along golden sands and roller-bladers gliding down Ocean Drive. Hipsters roam the sidewalk cafés, designer boutiques, lounge bars and dusk-til-dawn clubs where you may catch the occasional celebrity partying like its 1999. If you want to forget the sand, check out Art Deco District and take a stroll around the over 800 art deco buildings to catch its golden era of architecture. For those looking for the international vacation experience, light up your Cubans in Little Havana for a taste of Cuba. Here, you’ll find many restaurants and shops that are replicas of the ones in Cuba. For a vacation in a vacation, step into a fairytale at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. This Italian Renaissance-style palace on the Biscayne Bay is full of European antiques and décor from the 16th to 19th centuries, making you feel like you just entered a wonderland.

With all of the awesome attractions in Miami, you’re bound to get famished. The cuisine of Miami is a reflection of its diverse population with a heavy influence from the Caribbean and Latin America. The combination of these tastes along with American cuisine has created a unique South Florida style of cooking known as Floribbean cuisine.

Miami’s penchant for beautiful people, delicious food, powerhouse partying, and gregarious flare makes it a top vacation destination for anybody. Visit the official city website for Miami at: www.miamigov.com for up to date information on where to go and what do see.

The largest city in the state of Texas, Houston is the economic center of the sixth largest metropolitan area in the United States. Known as the “Space City” for its close relationship with NASA, Houston is the home of the Johnson Space Center, where NASA’s Mission Control is located. Houston's economy has a broad industrial base in energy, manufacturing, aeronautics, and transportation. It is also leading in health care sectors and building oilfield equipment; only New York City is home to more Fortune 500 headquarters. Houston has a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and fairly temperate winters. Due to their summers, Houston has been described as the “most air-conditioned place on Earth”.

The city has a population from various ethnic and religious backgrounds and a large and growing international community. It is home to many cultural institutions and exhibits, which attract more than 7 million visitors a year to the Museum District. Houston has an active visual and performing arts scene in the Theater District and offers year-round resident companies in all major performing arts. Attractions such as the Splashtown, Kemah Boardwalk, Galleria Mall, Johnson Space Center and the Houston Zoo are all great places to check out if you’re travelling with children. If you’re travelling without children, you should check out the Bayou Place for and awesome nightlife full of drinks and entertainment, the Neighborhood of Montrose for live music and vintage shopping, and the Old Town Spring for antique shops and great eateries.

No matter what you’re looking for in a vacation, Houston has an answer. This place is fun, engaging and most of all, inviting! The Space City may have you saying many things during your stay, but one thing that will not leave your lips is, “Houston, we have a problem”.

Visit the official City Website for Houston at: www.visithoustontexas.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Aloha! As the capital and the most populous city in the US state of Hawaii, Honolulu is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Located on the island of Oahu, Honolulu experiences a tropical savanna climate with a mostly dry summer season. Temperatures vary little throughout the year and rarely exceed 90°F with lows in the upper-50’s °F.

Plush with white beaches, blue water and palm trees, Honolulu has dozens of accessible beaches and beach-parks. Some of the best things to do here involve the ocean and with a water temperature that hovers around 75°F you definitely won’t need a wetsuit to play! You can easily find places to swim, surf, paddle, fish, kayak, dive or just lounge on the beach. Manoa Falls’ spectacular scenery and beautiful natural wildlife makes it a definite, must-visit attraction. The Honolulu Academy of Arts is a great place to explore impressive displays of Buddhist relics and galleries that are dedicated to art from throughout the Pacific Islands. To learn more about Hawaii’s history and culture, the Bishop Museum is a wonderful place to check out the largest collection of natural and cultural artifacts. The Iolani Palace is not only a beautiful architectural example, it’s also a must-visit destination to grasp a tangible sense of what majestic life was like during King David Kalakaua’s time.

I could go on and on about the great things to do in Honolulu, but that would turn this guide into a book! Be sure to do you research before traveling to this beautiful city, as the amount of activities available may become daunting!

Visit the official City Website for Honolulu at: www.gohawaii.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Known as the Mile-High City, Denver is the capital and the most populous city in the state of Colorado. Approximately 12 miles east of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and officially elevated at one mile, Denver is ranked the 16th most populous metropolitan area. Lying within a semi-arid continental climate zone, Denver enjoys four distinct seasons, with generally modest annual precipitation spread throughout the year. Summers range from warm to hot and winters are mild to cold. Due to its inland location on the High Plains, weather patterns in the Mile-High City are subject to rapid, volatile yet brief changes.

Home to one of the nation’s most popular zoos, world-class museums, and a downtown amusement park, attractions here are sure to fill your trip with a plethora of sights and sounds you can take back home with you. Denver’s biggest attraction is Mother Nature so bring your hiking boots and an appetite for a majestic adventure. As some say the best things in life are free, some of the best things to do in Denver are also free, or at least very affordable. From Elitch Gardens, where you can feed your adrenaline junkie alter-ego with roller coasters and the like, to Water World, the summer-time mecca for water-park lovers of all ages, Denver has activities for the whole family. The Denver Zoo, Denver Art Museum, Downtown Aquarium and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science are perfect for the academic-types who enjoy learning on their vacations. Ever wonder how our coins are made? Take the free tour at the U.S. Mint and find out! From the great outdoors to the comfortable indoors, you will have no problem finding somewhere to go or something to see.

With no shortage of interesting sites to see and experiences to experience, no wonder Denver is one of the top travel destinations in the country! Visit the official City Website for Denver at: www.denver.org for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Phoenix, nicknamed the Valley of the Sun, is the capital and largest city in the state of Arizona. With a subtropical arid climate, Phoenix has extremely hot summers and warm winters. Precipitation is sparse during a large part of the summer, but monsoonal moisture (early-July to mid-September) raises humidity levels and can cause heavy localized rain and the occasional flooding.

With unyielding sunbeams and a palm-tree persona, you may be tempted to find a secluded resort and spend all your time lounging around a pool, sipping on daiquiris. Fight this temptation! Phoenix has so much to offer, from the Desert Botanical Garden where you’ll find the one of the world’s finest collections of desert plants, to the Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse where you can experience gunfights, stunt shows, stagecoach rides, desert train rides, petting ranch, bull riding and gold panning. The South Mountain Park and Preserve is a great way to experience the rich wilderness Arizona has with over 50 miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. Kierland Commons is home to many popular shops, but is especially known for its’ delicious ice cream and dancing fountains.

There are also many great places to fill your stomach in the Valley of the Sun. For delicious food with amazing mountain views, El Chorro Lodge is the place to be. For a unique blend of French cuisine and Southwestern zest, Vincent’s on Camelback is your destination. Also, don’t miss Chris Bianco’s famous Pizzeria Bianco, which has been hailed by nearly every culinary publication as the best pizza in America!

No matter what you plan to do in Phoenix, you will find awesome places to shop, relax, explore and eat. Visit the official City Website for Phoenix at: www.visitphoenix.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

The second-largest city in California, San Diego is nicknamed as America’s Finest City and is known for its mild year-round climate. Immediately adjacent to the Mexican border, San Diego enjoys a Mediterranean climate and is one of the top-ten best climates in the Farmer’s Almanac. Characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters, most of the annual precipitation falls between December and March. The city has mild, mostly dry weather, with an average of 201 days above 70° Fahrenheit.

All about the outdoors, San Diego attributes and attractions will take your breath away. No matter what you’ll be doing, you’re sure to be surrounded by gorgeous gardens, the sweet smell of jasmine and cool tropical breezes. For those with little ones, there are no shortages of family-friendly destinations from the world-famous San Diego Zoo to Sea World. The most incredible panoramic view of San Diego can be had from 400 feet above sea level at the rocky top of Point Loma. A fantastic day-outing can be had at Old Town. Full of restaurants, shops and San Diego’s interesting history, Old Town should be at the top of anybody’s list of things to do in San Diego. The Boardwalk and Belmont Park is full of amusement rides, bars and volleyball games that will surely entertain you. The USS Midway Museum offers great insight to the inner workings of a US aircraft carrier, and is not only educational but also extremely interesting. For fun in the sun, head on over to Coronado Island and relax on its amazingly clean beaches and soak in the sun!

San Diego has an activity for any traveler, and is a must visit destination! Visit the official City Website for San Diego at: www.sandiego.org for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

The City of Angels, Los Angeles is the 2nd most populated city in America with 4 million residents in the city proper, and over 15 million in the expansive metro area. LA is known for many things – Hollywood, beaches, actors and actresses, and the home to major sporting teams like the Lakers and Dodgers. Many make LA their travel destination year-round due to its very temperate and mild Mediterranean climate. In fact, the temperature in Los Angeles proper typically averages between 68 and 80 degrees year round. LA is known for its share of uniqueness and oddities too. Celebrity events like the Oscar’s and many movie openings year round draw the celebrities and paparazzi alike, and the occasional high-speed car chase followed by helicopters along the cities hundreds of miles of freeways typically get national recognition and add unique flavor to the city. At times, the occasional earthquake or mudslide can add danger to the region.

For tourists, the can’t miss spots include the Hollywood Hills lined with lavish and famous homes of celebrities past and present, Grauman’s Chinese Theater and the nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame, or the Universal Studios tour of a real, working Hollywood set. The Santa Monica Pier and surrounding beaches offer a great view of a pacific coast sunset and many interesting people and activities going on each and every day. LA boasts one of the most diverse and broad populations in the country with neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Koreatown, Fillipinotown and more.

Within an hour’s drive of LA, the sweeping views of the pacific ocean can be seen from the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) on the way up to Malibu. Many celebrities call Malibu home and there are many interesting restaurants and resort areas nearby. Driving south from LA along the PCH, miles of beautiful beaches and expensive homes line the beach south of Long Beach – which in itself is an interesting city, with the Queen Mary and Spruce Goose exhibits in the harbor. About 90 minutes south of LA sits San Diego.

Regardless of your interests, you are sure to find something to catch your fancy in LA. For more details, visit the official LA website at: www.lacity.org

The City By The Bay is built upon 7 hills with sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its mild climate, San Francisco typically sees cool summers, but warmer falls and mild winters. In general, the climate is considered Mediterranean in nature. San Francisco is perhaps best known for its Golden Gate Bridge, Cable Cars, Alcatraz, Chinatown, World Series Winning Giants, and a multitude of cultural and other events.

One of the top tourist cities in the USA, San Francisco attracts visitors year-round. Popular Fisherman’s Wharf is a tourist mecca with its unique shops, restaurants and kitschy attractions. Tourists also flock to tours of Alcatraz Island, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, or wind their way down Lombard Street, billed as the “Crookedest street in America…” There are literally hundreds of things that can be done over a day, a week or even a month! Popular side trips also include the redwood forest at Muir Woods, as well as the winemaking country of Napa and Sonoma, about an hour’s drive northeast of the city. South of the city there is the surfing capital of Santa Cruz as well as the popular Monterrey Bay which boasts and aquarium as well as historic canneries.

For business travelers, the greater San Francisco Bay area which includes the cities of San Jose, Oakland, Mountain View, and Palo Alto is also known as the “Technology Capital” of America boasting the largest concentration of high-tech companies in the areas of software, hardware, gadgets and microchips. This gave way to the name “Silicon Valley” which became famous over the past 25 years and refers to the high concentration of established and start-up companies lining the peninsula from San Francisco down to San Jose.. The greater Bay Area is home to over seven million people of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

San Francisco’s diverse population, restaurants, shopping and sporting events make it an idea travel destination for individuals and families alike. Visit the official City Website for San Francisco at: www.sfgov.org for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

The northernmost major city in the contiguous United States, Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest and the state of Washington. It is named after Chief Sealth “Seattle” of the Duwamish and Suquamish native tribes, and is ranked as one of the most car-congested cities in the US. With a cool, dry-summer subtropical climate, Seattle has cool-summer Mediterranean characteristics with fairly mild, wet winters and mild, dry summers.

Also known as The Emerald City, Seattle sports many fun activities and attractions for visitors. Known for its rock music scene, Starbucks Coffee and rainy weather, Seattle offers majestic natural surroundings and a dynamic urban life. Woodland Park Zoo is spread across 65 acres and houses more than 1000 animals from 290 different species, and is the perfect place to spend a day or two with the family. Pike Place Market is often referred to as “Seattle’s heartbeat” because of its fresh marketplace that keeps the city pumping with good food ingredients. For all you nature-lovers, Mount Rainier National Park and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park are perfect places to intimately experience Seattle’s great outdoors.

The Emerald City is also known for its scrumptious eateries. Piroshky Piroshky often has a line but it moves fast, so make your selections while you wait. I recommend the traditional onion and potato or smoked salmon and cream cheese piroshkies! Café Campagne is the closest thing you’ll find to Paris in this great city. The food here is rich, but the prices are not! Farestart has a regularly changing menu, so each visit will be a delectable surprise! Not your typical restaurant, Farestart hires homeless and disadvantaged individuals as servers and kitchen staff, and 100% of the proceeds go back in to the program. So you can eat well and help society at the same time!

With so many things to do and so many great places to dine, no wonder Seattle is a top travel destination in the US. Visit the official City Website for Seattle at: www.visitseattle.org for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

Las Vegas (Sin City) or simply “Vegas” is clearly the home of gambling and over-the-top shows and nightlife in America. With over two million residents in the surrounding metro area, Vegas has grown significantly over the past decade. The “Strip” a 4 mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard contains dozens of large and glitzy casinos and hotels that light up the night sky and the daytime alike. Lying in the Mojave Desert, the climate is suitably a subtropical desert climate, with over 300 sunny days a year which can include many extremely hot days over 110® in the Summer. However, despite the heat and sunshine, Vegas can see its share of thunderstorms and flash floods when they occur, although unusual. It’s also not impossible for Vegas to see snowfall, although occurrences are rare and short-lived. Most of the snow falls in the surrounding mountains where it is visible almost year-round.

While it would be easy to spend hours writing about the fabulous grand facades of the Bellagio, Venetian, Aria or Wynn resort casinos, it’s important to also note the great activities and opportunities all within a short drive from Vegas. One particularly interesting area is that of Lake Meade and Hoover Dam, completed in 1935. Not only is the “Dam Tour” interesting, but there are plenty of recreational activities for boaters and picnickers alike on Lake Meade’s vast shoreline. Another 20 minute trip outside of Vegas to the West is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The conservation area holds a set of large red rock formations and sandstone peaks and walls called the Keystone Thrust. The cliffs and walls of the rocks can be well over a half of a mile high creating a striking contrast of color and a mecca for the novice and most experienced hikers. The Grand Canyon is a few hours away, but short 30 minute helicopter tours are prevalent and make getting to the Grand Canyon easy and fun.

Finally, for those really adventurous souls, Death Valley is only a few hours West of Vegas on the border of the California and Nevada border. While temperatures can reach over 130⁰ F during the summer months, in the winter and early spring the weather is mild and even cold during the night.

So check out all that Sin City and the surrounding area has to offer by visiting the official city website at: www.visitlasvegas.com

Washington D.C., formally the District of Columbia, is perhaps the most well-known place inside the United States. As its capital, Washington D.C. (or simply D.C.) houses the nerve center of all three branches of the federal government, and also many of the nation’s monuments and museums. D.C. is located in a humid subtropical climate zone, displaying four distinct seasons, where Spring and Fall are warm, Winter is cool, and Summer is hot and humid.

Weather aside, D.C. is always a great place to visit because of its historical importance, awesome monuments, diversity and bustling culture. Part of the Washington Metropolitan Area, D.C. hosts the National Mall, the Washington Monument and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial… all of which are must-sees! Also, don’t forget to snap a few photos at the White House, The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Lincoln Memorial. If you’re into sports, Washington D.C. will not let you down. As one of thirteen cities in the US with teams from all four major professional men’s sports, D.C. represents with the Wizards (NBA), the Capitals (NHL), the Nationals (MLB) and Redskins (NFL). D.C. also is home to a multitude of restaurants representing a diverse array of international cuisines. With over 100 restaurants in downtown D.C. (not including fast food), whatever your appetites’ desire, this city will not disappoint you.

If you’re looking for a great destination for your next vacation, be sure to keep D.C. on your list. But, remember to wear comfortable shoes as there are a plethora of beautiful and exciting attractions! Visit the official city website for Washington D.C. at: www.washington.org for up to date information on where to go and what to see.

A part of the Lesser Antilles in the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a prime vacation destination for tourists looking for white sands, palm trees, and crystal blue waters. One of four constituent countries forming the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba has a dry climate which has helped increase tourism as visitors can expect reliably warm sunny weather. This semi-arid climate attracts vacationers all year round, with temperatures varying little from 82.4°F and yearly precipitation barely exceeding 15.7 inches.

Aruba has one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean region and takes tourism, which accounts for three-quarters of its gross national product, very seriously. With so much to do in Aruba, I would highly recommend that you first research, then plan out what you want to accomplish on your trip to this tropical paradise. From horseback riding tours at Rancho la Ponderosa to relaxing in the sun at Eagle Beach, Aruba has all the necessary ingredients to make your vacation one that you’ll never forget.

If you’re traveling with family, De Palm Island is a great place for some quality time with a wide range of activities including snorkeling, scuba, sports, dining and bingo. For all you nature-lovers, don’t miss the Arikok National Park or the Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations… you will be surprised and delighted with this unforgettable encounter with nature. Go for a stroll and take a dip in the Natural Pool and experience this perfect retreat for a moment of total relaxation! Hit up Nafanny Spa if you’re looking for one of the best massages at an affordable price, or indulge yourself completely at Body & Soul Spa in Tierra del Sol. If you’re a shopaholic, Palm Beach Plaza, Renaissance Mall and Paseo Herencia are places where you can get your “fix”, offering the best in eateries, retail shops and entertainment.

The quality and sheer amount of activities catered to tourists, along with its paradise-like ambiance, makes Aruba one of the top destinations to spend your vacation days with or without your family! Visit the official tourism website for Aruba at: http://www.aruba.com for up to date information on where to go and what to see.