What to Do in Berkeley California

I love how walkable Berkeley is, and it’s easy to get to and from the OAK or SFO airports on BART. Once you get to town, you can explore on foot or short ride-share rides. You probably already know that Berkeley is best known for the UC Berkeley campus, but don’t miss the great food, music venues, and, if you rock climb, the climbing scene.

1. UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley

200 Centennial Dr, Berkeley, CA 94720, map

The UC Botanical Garden spans 34 acres and houses more than 10,000 species of plants. We especially loved the Redwood Grove, which is easy to miss. It’s next to the parking lot, across the street from the main entrance. You need to ask for a gate code.

The rest of the botanical gardens had peaceful trails and bay views with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Local Tip: If you plan on using ride-share to get here, schedule your ride home since the service can be spotty. You can also take the bus to and from town.

See More: The Ultimate SF Bucket List

2. Have Brunch at The Thai Temple, Wat Mongkolratanaram

1911 Russell St, Berkeley, CA 94703, map

I’m so glad the Visit Berkeley team suggested we go here; otherwise, we would have missed out. Wat Mongkolratanaram is a Thai Temple that serves a cash-only brunch every Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm to the public.

When you arrive, exchange cash for tokens at the token booth ($1 = 1 token). Don’t worry about getting too many tokens; you can exchange unused tokens back to cash. Afterward, you line up for food.

Dishes range from $11-13, and drinks are $1-3. We tried the pad thai, pumpkin basil, pork basil, mango sticky rice, and Thai tea. Everything we tried was delicious! If we lived near here, we would be visiting every Sunday. We need to come back to try the beef noodle soup.

Local Tip: Get here by 10 am if you want to avoid long lines, and maybe even before, if you’re getting in the beef noodle soup line (it was the longest).

3. See a Show at The Greek Theatre →

Hearst Greek Theatre, 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley, CA 94720, map

The Greek Theatre is one of our favorite venues for a show. It’s an outdoor amphitheater on the UC Berkeley campus, and we saw the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs here. We especially liked hanging out on the lawn.

Berkeley has great venues for music acts and live theater. During our recent visit, we were introduced to the world of psychedelic Cumbia at Freight and Salvage. They also host open mics and other community events.

4. Dine at Chez Panisse

1517 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709, map

Chez Panisse is arguably the most famous restaurant in the Bay. Alice Waters, who opened Chez Panisse, is responsible for the farm-to-table movement and what we now know as California cuisine.

I’ve been dreaming about eating here for a while, and we secured a spot at the Cafe upstairs for a 9:45 dinner.

The Cafe serves from an a la carte menu, and the Restaurant downstairs has a pre-fixe menu with two seatings (5:30 PM and 8 PM).

Local Tip: Reservations are a must at Chez Panisse. It’s easier to find openings at the Cafe and during late hours.

5. See the Art at BAMPFA (& Make your Own Art)

2155 Center St, Berkeley, CA 94720, map

BAMPFA, or the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, is one of the nation’s leading university museums. They have multiple exhibits featuring works from the 20th and 21st centuries.

Since I’m in my art era, I have spent most of my time downstairs in the BAMPFA Art Lab. It’s open Friday through Sunday and the first Thursday of the Month. They provide paper, collage materials, glue, scissors, colored pencils, markers, and more.

Local Tip: Every first Thursday of the month, BAMPFA is free to visit.

6. Visit the Local Urban Wineries

1350 Fifth St, Berkeley, CA 94710, map

In West Berkeley, you’ll find a one-block radius of warehouses taken over by urban winemakers. They also have a nice outdoor area to enjoy wine and beautiful weather.

Since I love bubbles, we started at Hammerling Wines, which specializes in sparkling wine. We then went over to Donkey & Goat to try their natural wine..

Local Tip: On the First Friday of each month, Berkeley Wine Block throws a block party from 3-9 PM. They also bring food trucks, music, and local art.

7. Climb at The Oaks

1875 Solano Ave, Berkeley, CA 94707, map

The Oaks is the newest climbing gym in Berkeley. We knew we had to check out the gym built inside a historic theater. They preserved portions of the theater, including the stage frame and arch. It makes the space truly special.

When you arrive, you’ll see the marquee with climbing puns (James and the Giant Boulder on one side and Backflag to the Future on the other). Let us know if you see something different when you go.

It’s part of the Touchstone family, so the setting is fun and on par with their other gyms.

We also love the setting at Benchmark Berkeley, where we usually climb when we’re in the area. Next, we need to climb at Indian Rock, the local crag. It also has nice views if you’re not a climber.

See More: 5 Best San Francisco Climbing Gyms + Bay Area

Map of the Best Things to Do in Berkeley

What to Eat in Berkeley

• Artis Coffee (, Coffee & Tea) – Cute and spacious coffee spot. Try their cold brew.
• Cafenated (, Breakfast & Brunch) – Delicious breakfast/brunch foods and drinks. The back patio is beautiful and has a lot of seating.
• Chez Panisse (, New American) – put California cuisine on the map. Click here to see our tips on how to get a reservation.
• Henry’s Bar & Restaurant (, Burgers) – This is a popular spot to tailgate before a Cal game. Try the Golden Bear.
• Iyasare (, Japanese) – Great Japanese spot. We loved the bento. It was massive and could have fed both of us.
• Jupiter (, Pizza) – A local favorite. They have a special pizza and salad each month, which we enjoyed.
• Peet’s Coffee, The Original Location (, Coffee & Tea) – This is the original Peet’s Coffee. Don’t miss the small museum in the back. Did you know Peet’s is responsible for the second wave of coffee in the US?
• Pizzeria da Laura (, Pizza) – you can choose New York style, Sicilian, or Grandma.
• Zino (, Mediterranean) – in the historic Hotel Shattuck, where we stayed. It’s a beautiful space that serves Mediterranean-inspired food.

Where to Stay in Berkeley California

We stayed at the historic Hotel Shattuck during our visit to Berkeley. It’s the perfect location, only two blocks from the Berkeley campus and steps away from great restaurants. Plus, it was right next to a BART station, which made it a breeze to get to and from the airport. We stayed in the Bay Suite, which had beautiful bay views.

Getting To and Around Berkeley

Berkeley is easy to explore without a car. For our visit, we flew into Oakland International Airport and hopped on BART, which took us to Downtown Berkeley (and our hotel).

AIRPORTS: There are three international airports to fly into.

• Oakland International Airport (OAK) is the easiest and closest to fly into. You can hop on BART and get off at one of three stations in Berkeley.
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Another good option if flights are more accessible from your home. BART will also take you to town.
• San Jose International Airport (SJC) – You won’t be able to make it to Berkeley via BART, but it’s another option if you rent a car.

BART, or the Bay Area Rapid Transit, has three stations in Berkeley: Downtown Berkeley, North Berkeley, and Ashby Stations. If you’re flying into OAK or SFO, it’s a great option since you can ride it to town. It’s also a great way to get to and from San Francisco, Oakland, Walnut Creek, and Concord.

We didn’t use it once we arrived in town, but it made transferring to and from the airport easy. PRO TIP – If you have an iPhone, add the Clipper card to your wallet to quickly reload your card.

GETTING AROUND BERKELEY: Berkeley is a walkable city. Once we arrived, we mainly explored on foot and used ride-share for a couple of further away places.

Essential Tips For Your First Visit

• Stop by the Berkeley Visitors Center (2030 Addison St, Berkeley, CA 94704, map) to pick up maps and get tips from the locals.
• If you use BART during your visit and have an iPhone, add the Clipper card to your wallet so it’s easy to scan in and out of public transit, and you can quickly reload the card.
• Pack layers! It can be warm during the day and cold in the evening.
• Pay attention to the university schedule. Hotel prices are much higher during move-in, graduation, and home games, and the area is crowded.

Planning Checklist

Are there any things to do in Berkeley that we missed? What other spots do we need to check out?

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About Seattle Neighborhoods + Why Trust Us

Seattle is more than just coffee, rain, and the iconic Space Needle. Lately, our favorite way to explore a city is by its neighborhoods. Not only does it help us travel slower, but it means having more time to appreciate each area rather than spending time in a car hopping between places.

Below, we highlight our favorite Seattle neighborhoods for visitors to explore with the help of our local friend, who has lived here for over a decade. Each of these Seattle neighborhoods has a unique vibe, so you can see why locals love their pocket of the city.

Whether visiting for the first time or planning a weekend getaway, here’s a guide to the best Seattle neighborhoods to explore using public transportation.

Downtown Seattle & Pike Place Market

If you’re new to Seattle, you’ll likely start at Pike Place Market in downtown. This area is close to the waterfront, and even if we’ve been multiple times, I always discover a new corner of Pike Place. Our latest favorite find was Osara Commissary, a shop downstairs featuring local artists and Japanese goods collected on their travels in Japan.

We also finally got to eat at Pink Door. Every time we tried for dinner, the wait was too long, so we dropped in for lunch and got seated immediately.

What to Do in Downtown Seattle

• Pike Place Market – See the fishmongers tossing fish, grab some Beecher’s cheese, visit the gum wall, get clam chowder, or explore the unique shops. You can also take a food tour.
• Seattle Art Museum – SAM is the city’s largest museum.
• Seattle Central Library – beautiful architecture.
• “Original” Starbucks – the original one no longer exists, but this shop is the closest to the original. If you’re a Starbucks fan, we recommend visiting the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill as well.

Where to Eat in Downtown Seattle

• The Pink Door (Italian, ) – a beautiful outdoor patio during the day that transforms into a whimsical space in the evening with a trapeze lady, jazz ensembles, cabaret, and more. We liked the vibe more than the food, but it’s worth noting that my vongole pasta had the most clams I’ve ever seen on a single dish.
• Sushi Kashiba (Sushi, ) – Chef Shiro is known as the Sushi Sensei of Seattle, and this omakase spot is perfect for a fancy dinner out.
• Biscuit Bitch (Breakfast & Brunch, ) – There’s always a line out the door.
• Pike Place Chowder (Soup, ) – one of the popular spots in Pike Place Market.

Where to Stay: We stayed at Hotel 1000. The rooms were beautiful and spacious (loved the tub layout), and it was an easy walk to Pike Place and the Symphony Link light rail station.

See More: Weekend Trip to Seattle – How to Spend the Perfect 3 Days

Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill is a lively neighborhood with international restaurants, lots of green space, and beautiful city skyline views. We spent an afternoon here walking around Jefferson Park before catching the sunset at Dr. Jose Rizal Park.

What to Do in Beacon Hill Seattle

• Clock-Out Lounge – a great spot for drinks, Stevie’s Famous pizza (we loved the Normie Macdonald), and a show. They have themed trivia nights, musicians, and comedians.
• Dr. Jose Rizal Park – one of the best spots for sunset with views of south Downtown and Elliott Bay.
• Jefferson Park – a large park with big grassy fields, a skate park, and one of the region’s best public golf courses.
• Seattle Bouldering Project – if you climb, this was our friend’s home gym with fun route setting.

Where to Eat in Beacon Hill Seattle

• Stevie’s Famous inside Clock-Out Lounge (Pizza, ) – delicious pizza! We got the Normie MacDonald.
• Milk Drunk (Ice Cream, ) – Ice cream and chicken sandwiches, though it’s not worth a long wait for me. I would go if I didn’t see a line.

Belltown

Belltown, just north of downtown, is where you’ll find cafes, nightclubs, boutiques, and galleries. We took a glassblowing class and a barista class in Belltown. We all know Seattle is the coffee capital of the US, but did you know that Seattle is also the heart of North America’s studio glass movement?

What to Do in Belltown Seattle

• Learn to Be a Barista at Coffee Tab – if you’ve ever been interested in learning how to be a barista, take a class with Coffee Tab. This unique coffee shop works with underserved youth, often homeless, by training them with employable skills and access to the coffee community. The cost of a class goes directly towards these kids’ salaries.
• Try Glassblowing at Seattle Glassblowing Studio – take a glassblowing class where you’ll learn the basics and take home the pieces you make. They can even ship them to you, so you don’t have to pack them in your suitcase meticulously. You can stop by and watch them blowing glass as well.
• The Moore Theatre – On our previous visit, we saw Atsuko Okatsuka here on a whim after seeing her name on the marquee. It’s a beautiful theatre!
• Olympic Sculpture Park – a SAM extension located about a mile away at the waterfront that is free to visit.

Where to Eat in Belltown Seattle

• Cedar & Spokes Coffee (Coffee, ) – not my favorite coffee of the trip, but they had a beautiful interior space with a water view.
• Shaker + Spear (New American, ) – we enjoyed all the dishes here!

Where to Stay: During our visit last year, we stayed at the Kimpton Palladian. The location was convenient for exploring downtown and we always enjoy seeing how unique Kimptons are.

See More: 11 Amazing Museums in Seattle You Can’t Miss

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is an eclectic and artsy neighborhood filled with bars, well-curated boutiques, and restaurants.

Even if you’re not a Starbucks fan, it’s worth being a tourist at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery once. It’s a massive roastery where you can try flights of coffee and fresh baked goods. We also tried Vitrola and Caffe Vita, if you want to try one of Seattle’s independent coffee shops.

What to Do in Capitol Hill Seattle

• Neko Cat Cafe – visit the local residents of Neko Cat Cafe, where you can get drinks and spend time with the cutest, adoptable cats. During the summer, make a reservation at least a day in advance since they limit the number of people per hour.
• Twice Sold Tales – a bookstore with cats roaming around.
• Elliott Bay Book Co – Seattle’s most famous and largest independent bookstore.
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery – not your normal Starbucks experience. This shop is huge and you can have flights of coffee and fresh-baked goods.
• Seattle Asian Art Museum – a SAM satellite location focused on Asian art.
• Glasswing Shop – cute clothes and even cuter plants.
• Glossier – an aesthetic store where you can try their products.

Where to Eat in Capitol Hill Seattle

• Rondo (Izakaya, ) – best happy hour specials. I highly recommend the Tasty BB noodles and their appetizer special, where you get a bunch of apps, a large glass of sake, and a beer for $10.
• Caffe Vita (Coffee, ) – decent coffee with lots of seating.
• Canon (Cocktail Bars, ) – fun drinks and a huge whiskey list! We got ones served in rubber burgers presented in a grill.
• Frankie & Jo’s (Vegan Ice Cream, ) – a great vegan ice cream option.
• General Porpoise (Donuts, ) – popular donut spot! We went years ago and loved them.
• Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ice Cream, ) – yummy ice cream!

See More: Ultimate Seattle Bucket List (101 Things to Do in Seattle WA)

Columbia City

Columbia City was one of our favorite new neighborhoods to explore. It was the first place we could see ourselves living in Seattle. The main street is filled with restaurants and shops and is very walkable.

Things to Do in Columbia City Seattle

• Hill City Tap House & Bottle Shop – we did trivia night here and got second!
• Third Place Books – a local bookstore with Chuck’s Hop Shop attached to it (huge selection of rare beers). This is in Seward Park, but not far from here.
• Royal Room – live music.
• Lottie’s Lounge – stop by for a Columbia City tradition: jello shots! Now, I need someone else from this neighborhood to verify if this is a neighborhood tradition or just our friend’s tradition here. He somehow convinced us to take one for the first time since college.

Where to Eat in Columbia City Seattle

• Island Soul (Caribbean, ) – our fave was the Jerk Fried Chicken Burger.
• Coffeeholic House (Coffee, ) – iced Viet coffee. We liked the black sesame one best if you’re in the mood for a dessert.
• Olympia (Coffee, ) – where I usually buy my beans in Seattle. They have several locations in Seattle and Olympia, so you don’t necessarily have to go to the one in Columbia City.

See More: 15 Best Day Trips from Seattle Washington

Chinatown-International District

The Chinatown-International District in Seattle is one of the nation’s oldest Asian-American neighborhoods. Every time we’re in Seattle, we’ve done snack runs at Uwajimaya, but this time, we also explored the surrounding neighborhood.

Things to Do in International District Seattle

• Wing Luke Museum – a museum focused on the way AAPI cultures have settled and shaped the Northwest. If you want to join their free tours (with admission), check the times and arrive early, as they have limited space.
• Sairen – a shop that carries clothing and items from local designers.
• Kobo Shop & Gallery – a gallery-style shop with crafts and decorative items from Japan and regional artists.
• Uwajimaya / Kinokuniya Bookstores – a Japanese grocery store and a Japanese-based shop that sells collectibles and books.

Where to Eat in International District Seattle

• Hello Em Viet Coffee (Vietnamese Coffee, ) – Viet coffee and yummy banh mi sandwiches.
• King Noodle (Noodles, ) – no-nonsense, build your own noodle dishes.
• Phin Coffee (Cafe, ) – the pandan waffles are so good.
• Saigon Deli (Vietnamese, ) – they have my favorite banh mi in Seattle so far!

West Seattle

West Seattle is just across the water from downtown, and you can take a water taxi across from Pier 50. Once you arrive, there is a free shuttle that runs two routes. Alki Beach is one of the main attractions, but you get beautiful city skyline views all along the water.

We took the shuttle to check out Easy Street Records before returning to the shore to enjoy the beach and have a memorable dinner at Driftwood. We can’t recommend it enough.

Things to Do in West Seattle

• Alki Kayak Tours – rent a kayak, go on a guided tour, or pick up some bikes to explore Alki Beach. They provide free lockers for anything you want to leave.
• Alki Beach – a great spot to sunbathe, picnic, barbecue, play volleyball, and swim.
• Easy Street Records – a big vinyl shop with lots of character, a coffee shop, and a bar (they have Caffe Vita coffee here).

Where to Eat in West Seattle

• Marination ma kai (Korean/Hawaiian, ) – we had the kimchi fried rice and spam musubi next to the water.
• Driftwood (Seafood, ) – our standouts were the beets and oysters, but the menu changes daily based on what fresh ingredients they can source locally. Everything we had was delicious, and this was our favorite meal.

See More: 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle WA

Where to Eat in our favorite Seattle neighborhoods

We highlighted our favorite spots in each neighborhood, but if you plan your travels with your stomach, we’ve compiled all the spots we ate at on this trip.

• Caffe Vita (Coffee, ) – decent coffee with lots of seating (although it was still very full when we went).
• Cedar & Spokes Coffee (Coffee, ) – not my favorite coffee, but they had a beautiful interior space.
• Coffeeholic House (Coffee, ) – iced Viet coffee if you want a dessert. We liked the one with black sesame!
• Canon (Cocktail Bars, ) – fun drinks and a huge whiskey list! We got ones served in rubber burgers presented in a grill.
• Driftwood (Seafood, ) – the menu changes daily based on what fresh ingredients they can source locally. Everything we had was delicious; this was our favorite meal on this trip.
• Frankie & Jo’s (Vegan Ice Cream, ) – great option for Vegan ice cream with unique flavors.
• Hello Em Viet Coffee (Vietnamese Coffee, ) – good coffee and yummy banh mi sandwiches.
• Island Soul (Caribbean, ) – our fave was the Jerk Fried Chicken Burger.
• King Noodle (Noodles, ) – no-nonsense, build your own noodle dishes.
• Marination ma kai (Korean/Hawaiian, ) – we had the kimchi fried rice and spam musubi.
• Phin Coffee (Cafe, ) – the pandan waffles are so good!
• The Pink Door (Italian, ) – a somewhat hidden pasta shop with a beautiful outdoor patio during the day that transforms into a whimsical space in the evening with a trapeze lady, jazz ensembles, cabaret, and more.
• Rondo (Izakaya, ) – great happy hour specials and delicious Japanese food.
• Stevie’s Famous inside Clock-Out Lounge (Pizza, ) – delicious pizza! We got the Normie MacDonald.

Where to Stay in Seattle

On our most recent visit, we stayed at Hotel 1000. The rooms are nice and spacious, and it’s a short walk from the Symphony Link light rail station. They have a spa, fitness center, a Topgolf Swing Suite, and are dog-friendly.

If you’re looking for more options, check out the map below:

Essential Tips for visiting Seattle neighborhoods

• Locals don’t use umbrellas. We also find this true about other PNW cities while living in Portland. Most people use rain jackets rather than umbrellas. It gives you a free hand to hold onto your warm coffee.
• Waterproof shoes are our go-to for any trip, rain or shine. To be ready for any weather, we love our Vessi shoes. They are comfortable to walk in and waterproof.
• Carry a backpack. Most places do not have plastic bags, and it’s easier to throw anything you buy into a backpack to carry with you.
• Layers are always key, especially if you plan to be out all day. It can be beautiful and warm during the day but gets chilly as the sun goes down.
• Get an ORCA Card or sign up for the app if you use public transportation. You can use it on the Link light rail, buses, and even the water taxi. Plus, you get discounts (i.e., the water taxi is $5.75 cash/debit or $5 with the ORCA card.
• Use SEA Spot Saver to skip the line if you do not have TSA Precheck or Clear when flying home. Sign up to five days before your flight or when you arrive at the airport at the ticketing level of the terminal. Go to your assigned checkpoint at the preassigned time and go through screening.

Planning Checklist

We’ve explored bits and pieces of these Seattle neighborhoods: Bainbridge, Ballard, Beacon Hill, Bellevue, Belltown, Capitol Hill, Central District, Columbia City, Denny Triangle, Downtown Seattle, Fremont, Hillman City, Industrial District, International District, Issaquah, Lower Queen Anne, Phinney Ridge, Pioneer Square, Rainier Beach, Seatac, South Lake Union, Vashon Island, Wallingford, Waterfront, West Seattle, Westlake, and Whidbey.

Any favorites that we missed that we should check out next time? Which Seattle neighborhoods have you explored?

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Your Packing List for Burning Man if you are Free Camping

NOTE: In the spirit of Burning Man, none of the links below are affiliate links where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Instead they are simply linked to the product to make it easy for you to find. If you would like to support us, please click on the links on this page before you start shopping.

A common trap for people who come year after year is wanting to bring more comforts until you eventually need to rent storage for your Burning Man gear and a trailer to tow. We wanted to fit everything in our Subaru Ascent for our first Burn, which is still large compared to most vehicles.

It’s wild to think that when we moved to a new city every year, we fit all our belongings in our car. But on our drive up, we realized our car was completely filled with only Burning Man gear.

First, you need to decide which camping route you will take. You have two main camping options at Burning Man.

1. staying with an existing registered camp

They offer some infrastructure and benefits (like showers, power, and new friends) in exchange for a fee and/or volunteering to work at the camp.

2. Free Camping or Open camping

The other option is to free camp. In this case, you must bring everything to survive for the week. If you’re going with friends, you can share resources, but you should always be prepared to be self-reliant.

If we were going solo, we might have considered a camp, but since we went with friends, we enjoyed the free camping experience. It allowed us to be further away from the parties, meaning we could get better sleep at night.

Although an RV is an option, we wanted to simplify our first experience at Burning Man, so we tent-camped.

See More: 21 Car Camping Essentials – Everything You Need to Pack

Most Important Items

Let’s start with the most important items, so you won’t get turned back at the gate after waiting hours to get there.

• Tickets – Don’t forget your tickets. For those of you who opted for will call, they will direct you there once you arrive.
• Car Pass – Similarly, have your car pass ready and stuck on the bottom left of your windshield.
• ID – Nearly everything is gifted on the Playa, but they will still ID you at certain camps when alcohol is served. Some people have copies of their IDs taped on their cups, which we’ll do next time.
• Extra Keys – Things can get lost on the Playa. It’s always smart to have a spare set with you, whether for your car, bike lock, home, or anything else. If you traveled with a group, stash it in a friend’s car. Otherwise, you can buy a magnetic box to hide extra keys.

Shelter for Free Camping

Should I tent camp or RV at Burning Man?

We noticed the sentiment that Burners are not as fond of RVs because of the mess they sometimes cause, the noise from generators, and the people in them being less approachable. I agree that it felt more communal being in tents, and we were less likely to bother people in RVs, but we always say, you do you. There are plenty of RVers.

Tent Camping

We’ve had most of our camping gear for many years. If you’ve camped before, you can most likely use what you have, but you need additional items specific to Black Rock Desert.

• Tent – We had a spacious Takenoko Bell Tent that was easy to set up. We planned to use it as our shade structure and the inner tent as our bedroom. We also wanted a hangout area if a huge dust storm came in. It also becomes a great base to set up the aluminet.
  • Takenoko Inner Tent – Gave us an inner tent that we used as our bedroom.
  • Takenoko Ground Sheet – Helps protect the tent from direct contact with the playa.
• Stakes / Lag Screws – Because wind can get serious, rather than using regular stakes, you need to get lag screws that drill into the ground. I bought two of these for the base and straps.
• Ratchet Straps – Just like the regular stakes, you also want to use ratchet straps to connect the tent to the lag screws. The thin ropes on the tents aren’t made for serious dust storms.
• Impact Wrench – Don’t forget an impact wrench with the proper adapter to drill your lag screws. We had to buy an additional size for this particular set.
• Aluminet – Because the playa provides no shade, most people create a shade structure, even for tents. We used three 10×16 aluminet sheets between our two cars and tent. Using the car roof racks and tent frame as anchor points, we created a large covered hang-out area. Even if we were camping solo, we would do the same thing. In the future, we need to figure out how to cover more of our tent.
• Bungees – Since aluminet is flexible and allows wind to pass through, bungees are the perfect way to attach them to your stakes or anchor points. It has more give, so they won’t rip or snap. We used all of my bungees and additional ball bungees our friends had.

Lessons Learned: Overall, we were happy with our shelter setup, but the tent got too hot during the day. For our next burn, we will integrate more aluminet to shade our tent. We mostly kept a regular sleeping schedule, but the shade structure is especially important for those who plan on sleeping during the day.

Camp Packing List for Burning Man

Your camp can be as primitive or boogie as you want. Since it was our first time, we focused on the necessities and tried to pack as minimal as possible.

• Chairs – We have Sugoi Chairs, and we love them for napping. We didn’t bring our lighter REI camping chairs, which pack smaller but are less comfortable.
• Misting Fan – this portable misting fan was great for hot days. It’s powerful and great for groups (we plan on replacing the mister nozzle with a finer one). It’s battery-powered, has a large water tank, and you can use the fan without the mist (use code: LOCALADVENTURER for 10% off your order at Turbro).
• String Lights – we used two rechargeable string lights to light up our tent and shared spaces.
• Area Lights – We arrived past midnight and had to set up in the dark, and our Devos Lightranger 1200 came in clutch. During the week, we used it inside the tent, and only had to charge it once using it on single light mode.
• Headlamp – A headlamp is necessary when leaving camp or looking for something in camp. We prefer ones that have a red light. Bring extra batteries (if not rechargeable).
• Storage Boxes – We’ve stored our camping gear in this storage box at home for years, and it became our food storage for the trip. We bought two additional 12-gallon storage bins. One of the bins held all our tools and miscellaneous items, and the other was for our toiletries.
• Garbage Bags – You must carry out all the trash and gray water you create. For our garbage, we bought heavy-duty contractor bags so we wouldn’t have unexpected leaks. Luckily, we didn’t generate much trash. Between the four of us, we didn’t even fill one bag, but we used our extras to wrap dusty items.
• Extra Batteries – We brought 24 AA batteries for our lights and wished we had more by the end of the week. The lights noticeably dimmed mid-week. I’ll buy a 40-pack for next time. Don’t forget AAA batteries for your headlamp as well – two extra sets per hand lamp is plenty! We brought alkaline batteries vs rechargeable ones since they last longer.
• Paper Towels – We brought three rolls of paper towels and used 1.5 of them. Rather than washing dishes, we wiped down our bowls and utensils with a vinegar spray. We didn’t have as many dust storms as in previous years, so I would still pack three, just in case.
• Vinegar Spray – We made a vinegar spray (1 part vinegar: 3 parts water) at home and put it in a spray bottle. After wiping down the solids on our dishes with a paper towel, we sprayed them and did a final wipe. Vinegar also neutralizes the alkaline playa dust, useful for spraying metals to prevent rust.
• Table – We got so much use out of our Good Luck table. It packs up small, has different height options, and has zip-up shelves. It became the centerpiece of our hang-out area, where we cooked our meals and stored our kitchen items.
• Extension Cord – I brought one in case I needed it but didn’t end up using it. I’ll still pack it for future burns.
• Hand Warmers – Some nights, we wished we had our hand warmers.
• Powerbanks – Powerbanks are a great way to charge your phones at camp or out and about. We had a couple with us that we never had to recharge.
• Charging Cables – Don’t forget all the cables for charging your devices (if you plan to use them).
• Battery Generators – To ensure we had enough power, we brought our Jacker Explorer 300, which we used 60% of charging our phones, headlamps, and lights, and our Jackery Explorer 1500, which we didn’t end up using at all. I thought we would use more power, but we kept it minimal only charging our phones and a few lights.
• Solar Panels – We also had two sets of solar panels to charge the Jackery Explorers but didn’t use them.
• Pee Bags – We always have a few TravelJohns stashed in our car and they are perfect for Burning Man. There are plenty of porta potties, but they’re great for emergencies like during a dust storm or if you’re stuck in traffic on the way in or out. It solidifies your pee and neutralizes the smell.
• Folding Table – Our friends brought a folding table that was helpful at camp. We kept our waters on them so that it was easy to use the spouts since they were higher off the ground. It’s also a good place to unpack some of your items from the car when you arrive without putting them on the ground where everything gets dusty.
• AC Unit – We have an Ecoflow Wave that we considered bringing to cool down our tent, but after testing how much power it would consume, I opted not to. If you have a generator, you won’t have issues running one, but we only wanted to use our solar battery generators.
• Carabiners – A handful of carabiners are always useful at camp. We used them to attach our trashbags, hang our clothes, carry our cups, and more.
• Rug – This felt like a luxury. Our friends had an old carpet rug, which was comfortable to sit on. If you have any old rugs, it’s the perfect place to find a second life, and we’re on the hunt for one to use for our next burn. We also had a few thin rugs/mats, like this Rumpl one. It took up less space in our car, but we could still get another layer on the ground.

Lessons Learned: We’re glad our friends brought a plush rug and folding table, and we’ll add those to our setup in the future.

Food / Kitchen packing list for burning man

When we camp, we try to keep it simple. We prefer easy meals like Mountain House, ramen, or protein bars to minimize packing and cleaning.

• Mugs for Sharing – Many camps gift drinks and food, and you need a container to receive them. We liked our mugs with a handle, a carabiner attached to our backpack, and a lid to keep out the dust.
• 2x Water Jugs – It’s important to have enough water. They recommend 1.5 gallons per person daily for drinking, washing, and cleaning. We brought two 7-gal Aquatainers and 3 frozen 1L water bottles as our initial ice. We only used one of our 7-gallon containers since it wasn’t as hot this year, and we also wiped instead of washing. We also bought ice a few times and drank the melted water.
• 2x Grey Water Jugs – We brought two collapsible water jugs for grey water but only used a quarter of one. Again, we challenged ourselves to be as minimal as possible.
• 3x Ice Bags – This was a last-minute purchase, and we’re so happy with them. After buying the ice, we moved them to these bags so we could drink the melted ice.
• Food – We primarily packed four types of ramen and bars for our meals. Most of our ramen was dry, so we would not have to deal with leftover soup. When we got sick of it, fortunately, our friends had more variety and shared.
  • Fresh Foods – we brought some prewashed grapes, pre-peeled clementines (I wanted to reduce trash, but in retrospect, we should have left half of them unpeeled), and cherry tomatoes. They were delicious, and we wish we had more. By mid-week, we had finished them.
  • Warm Food – Our friends brought some rice, eggs, and spam they made in their Jetboil Genesis. The bread was a nice addition to make spam and egg sandwiches.
• Cutlery – We brought a reusable cutlery set but ended up using chopsticks the whole time. Our friends’ Snow Peak ones, though over-engineered, are amazing! If you bring wooden disposable chopsticks, you can ask registered camps to let you burn them in their fires.
• Jetboil – Since we mostly brought ramen, we used our Jetboil MiniMo to boil our water, but our friends convinced us to get a Jetboil Genesis for next year. It gives you more food options.
• Fuel – Get the right fuel for your stove. Our Jetboil MiniMo uses the butane fuel, while the Genesis uses propane.
• Electrolytes – We brought Liquid IVs for each day.
• 2x Coolers – one for food (and some drinks) that we rarely opened and one for easier drink access. You can buy 16 lbs of crushed ice for $10 or 10 lb blocks for $5. We bought crushed ice every other day to keep our drinks cool. Our friends also had a powered cooler/mini fridge, which plan on buying to have more fresh food at the end of the week.
• Funnel – Rather than using a makeshift sink, we used a metal 4-inch funnel on top of our collapsible grey water jug to brush our teeth. It worked fine, but we want an 8-10 inch for washing up next time. Ours already rusted from the playa dust.
• Bowls – We picked up two plastic bowls to use for our food. After each meal, we would wipe it down with a paper towel, spray the vinegar solution, then wipe it down again.
• Snacks – Bring any snacks that make you happy! We had tropical dry fruit snacks, candy, cheeze-its, crackers, and more. Our friends also brought vegetable and fruit puree pouches, aka baby food for adults, but made eating easy and helped cool you down in the hot afternoons.
• Drinks – We brought some sparkling water and Diet Coke for the week.

Lessons Learned: We got sick of ramen and bars mid-week. We found gifted food at other camps, and thankfully, our friends shared some of theirs with us. For the next burn, we plan to vary our meals more after adding the Jetboil Genesis. Our priority will still be simple meals, so we’ll add more fresh foods, bread, spam, eggs, rice, and sassy pickle snacks!

Bedding

• Bed – We use our Hest Mattress for all our car camping adventures. It’s comfortable, but you must lay on top of an insulation layer (we used a puffy Rumpl blanket) on cold nights since it doesn’t have an R rating like some of our other outdoor gear.
• Pillows – I used this Rumpl The Camp Pillow, and Esther brought a regular pillow from home.
• 3x Bed Sheets – We brought three sheets but only used two since we didn’t have as many dust storms. One is for the bed, one to cover the entire bed set up during the day (in case of dust storms), and one extra in case you want to change it mid-week.
• Blankets / Liners – It was cold at night! We had a Therm-a-Rest Insulated Blanket to keep us warm and these Cocoon Dual Liner TravelSheets under. This allowed us to use it by itself during the day when it was warmer.
• Booties – Esther brought her down booties, which she used every night.
• Ear Plugs – Ear plugs are a must if you want to sleep. We had squishies and loops for music but mostly used loops for both.
• Eyemask – If you have trouble sleeping with light, bring an eye mask. We didn’t use ours.

Lessons Learned: The only thing we would add to our sleeping setup is a light blanket option when it’s hot.

Transportation

Most people use bikes to get around the Playa. From our camp, it took us 30 minutes to the Man (center of the clock) and another 30 to the trash fence (outer edge).

• Bicycle – We found 20-inch cheap folding bikes on FB marketplace to fit inside our car (we don’t have bike racks). Some guides mention having fat tire bikes or e-bikes (which is a pricey option, considering the playa dust will likely destroy the battery contact points).
• Bicycle Lights – This two-pack of bike lights was perfect for our headlight and taillight.
• Bell – A bell is nice to have to notify people in front of you.
• Basket – Having a foldable basket on your bike is great to help carry items. I might try to add some saddlebags next time.
• Light Up Lights – Besides your headlight and taillight, you want to light up your bike uniquely so it’s easy to spot at night among hundreds of other bikes! We used these LED strips for the main frame (bring an extra set – mine broke mid-week). We also had EL Wire Lights for our backpacks, baskets, and flag. One of our friends had wheel lights, which was nice too.
• Flag / Identifier – Having a tall identifier was helpful because the lights were not enough. We added EL lights to our flags. The quality sucks, and they kept breaking, but it served its purpose.
• Bike Lock – Whether on purpose or by accident, bikes get stolen. We locked up our bikes anytime we were leaving them for a while.
• Repair Kit – You can find repair stations throughout the city, but it’s good to have a kit if they run out.
• Pump – Bring a bike pump in case you need to fill up.
• Spare Tire Tubes – A spare set of tubes is also smart to pack, especially if you have irregular tire sizes.
• Zip Ties – These are handy to attach lights and other items to your bike. We always had a few with us.

Pro Tip: Start biking a few weeks before Burning Man. Otherwise, you’ll be sore all week. Esther was hurting all week.

Lessons Learned: The foldable bikes were convenient, but the small wheels hurt later in the week when the roads became more washboardy. We also want to add a sturdier flag, more lights, and decor to our bikes to differentiate them. We lost them a couple of times in the sea of lit-up bikes.

See More: Recap of Our Endless Caravan

Clothes

Burning Man is all about radical self-expression. However, the people you see with elaborate outfits posted on social media are not the majority. You can wear whatever you want (or nothing), and there is no judgment. You’ll see a lot of rave wear or outdoor gear.

For our first burn, we focused on practical clothes survival and a few fun items for themed days. This means clothes to keep you cool during the day and warm at night. The temperature swing is extreme. Otherwise, have fun with it!

We didn’t want to buy new outfits, so we tried to pull from our current wardrobe. Also, in the spirit of no commodification, avoid clothes with logos. I covered up small logos with tape.

• Clear Goggles – Clear goggles or ski masks are a must for sandstorms and something you’ll always have on you. If you get steampunk goggles, make sure they seal well on your face. We got these, and functionally they were great. Next time, we may want to try something more stylish.
• Sunglasses – We brought our ombraz armless sunglasses, which we love for the outdoors. They were nice to hang on our necks when not in use. These cheap ones or fun-shaped glasses (with UV protection) are also great.
• Buff – Another item you should always have on you is a buff. It’s a great way to cover your face when sandstorms come and protect you from the sun. We each brought two to switch to a fresh one midweek.
• K95 Mask – We didn’t use our masks but also didn’t experience crazy dust storms like in previous years. Since they are light and small, pack them just in case.
• Hats – Hats protect you from the sun during the day. We picked up a straw hat at a gas station on the way up for Esther. I also carried this DOD hat on my backpack since it folds up. Just make sure it has chin straps in case of gusts of wind.
• Boots – If you’ve started to do research, you probably have come across accounts and warnings of playa foot, which is a chemical burn caused by alkaline dust. To avoid that, we always wore boots or shoes when we went out, but I also wore slides around camp. If you’re good about wiping down at night, you likely won’t get playa foot. It’s more for people who like to be barefoot all week.
• Daypack – Some people had water bladder backpacks, and others wore fanny packs. For us, a day pack (+ Esther used a fanny pack) made the most sense. You always want to have water, so we brought small daypacks for our bladders, extra layers, snacks, a cup, and a MOOP bag (matter out of place, aka trash). We also put lights on it to light us from behind. I used this Exped Summit Hike backpack with EL wire light through the loops. I also liked having the two pockets on the straps to stash things for easy access. Esther carried her trusty Flashpack.
• Jacket – Bring a warm jacket; fuzzy ones are popular. Esther wants one of these light up ones for next year, but many people have them, so it won’t be unique.
• Kimonos – Kimonos are popular on the playa since it’s comfortable during the hot day. Esther had a white kimono and yellow kimono. I had this white one and brought another oversized white shirt I wore during the day.
• 10x Shirts – We each brought a fresh shirt for each day and two extras if it was extra dusty. It can be nice to have a clean shirt at night. Esther wore bikini tops or sports bras during the day and covered with layers at night.
• Underwear – We only brought one per day with a couple of extras. Some people bring two pairs of underwear daily.
• Socks – Many packing lists also suggest two socks per day. If you sweat a lot or like changing out your socks, bring more, but we were fine wearing one per day.
• Warm Clothes – It can get really cold at night (down to the 40s and 50s). We each brought 2-3 pairs of long johns/leggings. We slept in one at night. Then we had two pairs for going out that we switched mid-week. These were our bottoms for most nights, and we didn’t sweat much since it was cold. For next year, we’ll try to get fun ones that have pockets! We also brought two thermal tops each, but only needed them if we stayed up all night or went out to deep playa.
• PJs – Often, we wore the same clothes day after day, but it was nice to have fresh clothes to change into for sleep.
• Themed Clothes – There are some themed days throughout the week, but not everyone participates. The three we prepped for were Tutu Tuesday (our friend had one with lights built in), White Wednesday (wear white), and Fishnet Friday. Some camps also have themed outfits or days.
• Clean Clothes for the Drive Home – Bring a clean set of clothes that stays sealed in a ziplock bag (we used dry bags) that you can change into on the last day.
• Rain Jacket – It doesn’t typically rain, but it did in 2023. We brought our rain jackets just in case.

Lessons Learned: People spend a lot on their outfits while others wear comfortable clothes. We want to find a happy medium next time and have fun with themed group outfits. Our friends gifted us light-up cat ears, which we all wore one night.

Toiletries

• Sunblock – Bring lots of sunblock to protect yourself during the day. We had a larger bottle for camp and small ones to carry to reapply.
• Lotion – If you’re not used to the desert climate, your skin will feel extremely dry.
• Body Wipes – We used body wipes all week to clean up each night. Having this huge jug of wipes was nice at camp. People also recommend having witch hazel for the playa dust, and these wipes have witch hazel.
• Toothpaste – We like using these refillable tubes.
• Toothbrush – We brought our electric toothbrush with two heads and used these to protect them.
• Mouthwash – We always travel with this concentrated mouthwash (we use it at home, too, since it’s more affordable and sustainable. One tiny bottle equals ten standard mouthwash bottles).
• Towel – We brought pack towels but didn’t end up using them. Oddly, the playa dust keeps you feeling clean. We also didn’t notice anyone smelling like BO. So strange. It’s good to have in case you want to shower.
• Lip Balm (with SPF) – your lips need sun protection too.
• Toilet Paper – bring porta-potty-friendly TP ( single-ply or eco-friendly toilet paper). They were mostly stocked in the porta-potties, but occasionally would run out near the end of the week.
• Eyedrops – If you’re not used to dry climate or your eyes get irritated.
• Allergy Meds – We brought some allergy meds in case the dust bothered us. Since we didn’t get many dust storms, we didn’t end up using them but we’ll pack them for our next burn too.
• Saline Nasal Spray – A saline nasal spray is great if the dust bothers you. We didn’t use ours but will still bring one next time just in case.
• Moleskin – If you’re not used to walking a ton or your shoes hurt, you might get blisters. We didn’t use them but ended up gifting some to our neighbors with blisters.
• Medication – Don’t forget daily medications, painkillers, and tums.
• Neosporin – Useful for any cuts or scrapes.
• Liquid Bandaid – Regular bandaids are handy, but the dust can make it hard for them to stick, and they may fall off and become MOOP. Just remember, some liquid bandaid hurts like a MF.
• Aloe – to soothe sunburns.
• Hand Sanitizer – The bathrooms had hand sanitizer near them, but sometimes ran out. You’ll also want some when you’re out. We had a large bottle for camp and small travel ones in our backpacks.
• Bug Spray – There usually aren’t many bugs on the Playa, but more showed up near the end of the week, most likely hitchhiking in with people. We brought bug spray in case they have unseasonably wetter seasons that bring more bugs.
• Pee Funnel – Esther brought this pee funnel for extra gross porta-potties. Practice using it at home before you go. The first time she tried using it during a backpacking trip, it was challenging.
• Moisturizing Wipes – We had our body wipes but also brought moisturizing wipes for our face.

See More: Recap of Our Endless Caravan

Miscellaneous – packing list for burning man

Here are some random items we packed that don’t fit into the other categories.

• Ziplock Bags – Large storage bags are nice to keep things clean and one for if you come across MOOP. Some people put every outfit in separate ziplock bags, but we didn’t.
• First Aid Kit – some emergency services are available on the Playa, but come prepared with a first aid kit just in case.
• Zip Ties – helpful when securing lights on your bike or anything else. Carry extra ones in case they break.
• Tool Kit – A basic tool kit is good if you need to fix anything in your camp.
• Disinfecting Wipes – We brought two bottles of disinfecting wipes but only used one. It was helpful to clean random items.
• Duct Tape – in case you need to repair or secure anything.
• Work Gloves – if you have a lot of setup and breakdown.
• Scissors – We almost didn’t pack these but used them often and even lent them to neighbors.
• Multi-tool – We also used our leatherman a couple of times.
• Gas Can with Fuel – We had an easy entrance and exit compared to previous years but waits can be 6-8 hours on both ends. Bring extra fuel if you think you’ll run out of gas waiting in traffic.
• Bluetooth Speaker – If you want to play music while hanging out at your camp or have the option to play music while you’re riding around, bring a Bluetooth speaker. We loved this one! I also strapped it to my basket one day, riding around on the Playa.
• Personal Mister – We had amazing weather in 2024, but I used this personal misting fan on the hotter days.
• Walkie-talkies – If you are caravaning to Burning Man, having these walkie-talkies helps when you don’t have service. You can use them on the playa, too, but we didn’t.
• Umbrella for Shade – great for sun protection, especially while walking around the city.
• Art Supplies – If you love doing creative things, bring some supplies for your downtime.
• Fire Extinguisher – Fires don’t happen often, but they do. Be prepared.
• Brush – It’s easier to blow or brush dust off than wipe. When moisture gets on it, it turns to clay.
• Blanket for the Playa – You’ll sit for a while during the man and temple burn. Some people sit on the playa, but it’s nice to have a blanket that packs down small.
• Painters Tape – At your last fuel stop before the Black Rock Desert, you should tape up the outside of your intake vents for your AC system. Dust will get in the vent, and when you turn the car on, the AC will push it into your car. Some people also tape any cracks and seams on the car’s exterior if they don’t need to get in during the week.
• Car Jump Starter and Air Compressor – Both our neighbor’s car and our car batteries died (we didn’t notice our trunk opening, and it drained the battery). Fortunately, our friend had a car jump starter. If camps are tight, it might be difficult to get cars next to each other, so having a battery-powered jump starter is ideal. Plus, having the built-in air compressor helps you deal with flat tires.

Lessons Learned: We’re adding a brush and a car jump starter to our BM collection next year.

Additional Tips

• Focus on the essentials for your first burn. The outfits and themes are fun, but if you don’t have what you need to be self-reliant in the desert, you may become what Burners call a sparkle pony (a drain on everyone around you).
• Keep important documents easily accessible in your car (tickets and car passes).
• Don’t be a darkwad. Be well-lit at night from the front and back. Accidents happen when people can’t see you.
• Pack out everything you pack in. That includes all your garbage, personal items, and gray water. Leave space in your car to haul everything out.
• Trash services outside the Playa will take your garbage for a fee ($5 a bag). We had a rooftop box where we stashed our garbage and drove it home.
• Prepare for extremely hot and cold weather. The weather swings in the desert.
• Get to know your neighbors if you’re free camping. They are your support system and can help you out. Also, offer to lend a hand if you see them needing anything.
• Don’t try to do it all. Rest! It’s exciting when you arrive with hundreds of daily activities to pack your schedule, but treat it like a marathon rather than a sprint, especially if you’re there all week.
• Sleep when you can. Some people flip their schedules and sleep during the day, while others sleep at night. Do what works for you.
• Porta-potties tend to be cleaner on the city’s edges than closer to the center.
• Camps gift food but do not rely on them for all your meals. It’s important to have enough food and water for yourself.
• Load up your car in the reverse order. I made the mistake of loading up randomly and had to unload so much to get to our tent. Also, if you arrive the first night, bring lights to set up.
• Remove packaging beforehand to minimize the trash you have to deal with.
• Always carry supplies with you in case of dust storms. Some last for hours, and you will be staying put. We always had a bladder full of water, snacks, goggles, face covering, headlamps, TP, lip balm, hand sanitizer, cups, layers, and gift items.
• Customize your bike so it’s easy to find at night. Also, park your bike next to stationary objects on the Playa, not art cars, which will eventually leave.
• Staying in a hotel after? Pack a separate sealed bag with what you need so you don’t have to dig through all your BM stuff.
• Stay hydrated!

Anything else we need to add to our packing list for Burning Man? Let us know in the comments below if you have any questions.

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Is Long Beach Worth Visiting?

Long Beach is worth visiting for those looking for a beach getaway but not in a sleepy beach town. It has waterfront attractions, water sports, and a great diverse selection of food. It’s especially great for travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure.

What is Long Beach Most Known For?

• Queen Mary
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
• More relaxed vibe compared to LA
• Home base for visiting other SoCal destinations like Disneyland

See More: Ultimate Los Angeles Bucket List (101 Things to Do in LA)

The Best Things to Do in Long Beach

1. Bike Along Beach

When you’re in a coastal city, the beach is a must, especially for those of us who are landlocked. We spent the morning strolling and biking along Shoreline Way near the Belmont Plaza Pool that runs along the coast. If you want to swim, Bayshore Beach has calmer waters.

If you want to grab a bike, Long Beach Bike Share stations are all over the city. Download the app (for IOS + for Android) to load credit, and you can use bikes to get around Long Beach!

2. Long Beach Waterbikes

164 N Marina Dr, Long Beach, CA 90803, map

We’re always looking to try new activities when we travel, and this was our first time on waterbikes! Long Beach Waterbikes was a great soft adventure in the marina, where you can take it at your own pace and relax on the water or get an intense workout.

They are easier to ride compared to road bikes. If you can ride a stationary bike at the gym, you can ride a waterbike.

Each bike has a small cubby for personal items and can hold any of your oversized items.

Local Tip: For a unique ride, check out Glow Ride Hydrobiking. The bikes have lights that make you glow on the water!

3. Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, map

You can find me with the penguins! Ever since Antarctica, I’ve been obsessed. The Aquarium of the Pacific is among the most popular attractions in Long Beach. Oddly enough, the birds were the highlight for us.

You can get a cup of nectar ($4) to feed the birds in the Lorikeet Forest. Sometimes they crawl onto your arms to eat.

Local Tip: Lorikeet feedings happen daily from 9:30 AM to 6 PM (closed between 12 and 1 PM) until their daily nutritional needs are met. When we visited at 11:30, many of the birds were full.

4. Tour the Queen Mary

1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802, map

Once a historic ocean liner, the Queen Mary is now a hotel, museum, and entertainment venue. Our SoCal friends visit the Queen Mary every Halloween for their haunted events. One of our friends even stayed overnight and experienced some paranormal activity.

Each ticket includes a tour. Explore the Art Deco design, learn about its history, and join one of the tours (the ghost tours are the most popular). We did the Hollywood Tour since I’m not into scary things.

Afterward, you can wander the free exhibits, check out the restaurants, or grab a drink at the Observation Bar (check out their Happy Hour deals).

The ship also hosts events throughout the year. Some are free (with RSVP) and usually include ship access.

Local Tip: If you have a dining reservation, entrance to the Queen Mary is also included!

Getting Here: If you are visiting the Aquarium on the same day, take the AquaLink water taxi. It’s a short ride across the water and is only $5 per person each way.

5. Shop the Vintage and Quirky Shops at Retro Row

4th Street, Long Beach, CA 90802, map

Retro Row is a fun shopping area known for its vintage shops, indie boutiques, and eateries. It’s a great place to hunt down vintage clothes, vinyl records, or kitschy souvenirs. These were our favorite finds:

• Pigeon’s Roller Skate Shop — They carry everything related to roller skating, and I wanted to pick up a pretty pair to skate down the boardwalk. They also run the roller rink at 2nd & PCH.
• Plantiitas — Queer, Latinx-owned plant shop with a mix of popular and rare plants. I wanted to take some home, but I had no room in our shared suitcase (a downside of minimal packing).
• Songbird — Quirky and whimsical gifts. We picked up some rubber cat paws, which you can look out for in future photos and videos.
• Kitchen Lingo — A bookstore dedicated to food. They also have beautiful wood charcuterie pieces.
• Meow — A vintage clothing shop recommended by locals, but it was closed when we were there.
• Oh La Vache — Local cheese shop with a wide selection.
• Historic Art Theatre — shows indie films and classic movies.

Local Tip: Many shops on Retro Row had odd hours so they weren’t all open when we visited.

6. Museum of Latin American Art

628 Alamitos Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802, map

The Museum of Latin American Art is the only museum in the United States dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American art. The museum features a collection of paintings, sculptures, multimedia works, rotating exhibitions, and cultural events.

Local Tip: Check their calendar for special events and workshops. They even host Paint & Sip classes.

7. Stroll 2nd Street

2nd Street, Long Beach, CA 90803, map

2nd Street in Belmont Shore is pedestrian-friendly, with boutique shops, restaurants, lively bars, and great people-watching. We ate and snacked our way down the street, and here are some of our favorite finds:

• Angelo’s Deli — We didn’t get a chance to go on this trip, but their soppressata sandwiches were always a memorable part of previous visits.
• Colossus Bread — Started by selling delicious cookies at a farmers market, and now it’s a brick-and-mortar store selling bread, pastries, coffee, wine, and more.
• Galata Ice Cream — One of few places where you can get Turkish ice cream in the US.
• Holey Grail Donuts — Yummy taro-based donuts from Hawaii. They constantly rotate flavors, and they are mostly vegan with the exception of certain specialty flavors.
• Long Beach Clothing Co — Tons of Long Beach merch to take home with you.
• Luna — Gift shop that features local artists and companies.

8. 2nd & PCH

6400 Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90803, map

2nd & PCH is a modern shopping and dining destination with a mix of high-end and casual stores, eateries, and entertainment options. They have a roller skating rink, run by Pigeon’s Roller Skate Shop on Retro Row, and it’s a popular spot for locals to hang out and run errands.

I tried their coffee from Caffe Luxxe, a SoCal chain, and they had a delicious cortado (or Gibraltar). (Side note: Cortados are usually my go-to order at coffee shops, but on this trip, I tried many specialty drinks, so I’ll have to go back to compare coffee on the next trip).

Pro Tip: They have a Whole Foods with a bar inside.

9. The Hangar Food Hall

4150 McGowen St, Long Beach, CA 90808, map

Food halls are popping up everywhere, and we love that you can try many cuisines and dishes in one meal. The Hanger, which leans into an airport theme, features 14 food vendors, boutique retailers, and even a speakeasy. It had Greek food, sandwiches, Korean BBQ, and more.

Since we had just eaten, we picked up a charcuterie and cheese box from Fior di Latté (which focuses on California cheeses) to picnic in the sky on our flight home! It’s a great way to upgrade your flight, especially on short flights where beverage service is limited.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Long Beach

Where to Eat in Long Beach

• Ammatoli (Mediterranean, ) — Delicious Mediterranean food from a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef in 2024. Don’t skip on the Knafeh for dessert! It was my first time trying it, and it has a similar texture to baklava but is cheesy.
• Angelo’s Deli — You have to try their Soppressata sandwich.
• The Breakfast Bar (Breakfast & Brunch, ) – Try Uncle Marcee’s Omelet Casserole and Lemon Cake Pancakes.
• Chiang Rai (Thai, ) — Our local friends told us Chiang Rai was their favorite, and their go-to was crab-fried rice and roti with curry. It did not disappoint and was the best crab-fried rice we’ve tried!
• Colossus Bread (Bakeries & Cafes, )— specializes in sourdough bread and pastries. They serve sandwiches and salads the first half of the day and pizza after 3 PM.
• Fior di Latté (Cheese Shops, ) — Cheese shop in The Hangar focusing on California cheeses. Grab a charcuterie and cheese box to picnic on the beach or to upgrade your flight.
• Galata Ice Cream (Desserts, ) — Get Turkish coffee and pastries.
• Gusto Bread (Bakeries, ) — This artisanal bakery was the first in Long Beach to get nominated for a James Beard Award. Try the Nixtamal Queen!
• Holey Grail Donuts (Donuts, ) are taro-based donuts from Hawaii with rotating flavors. They have a crunchier and chewier texture than your typical donut. We were so full from snacking all day that we only split one, but we’ll be back for more.
• Observation Bar (Bars, ) — This is a great place to grab drinks with a view aboard the Queen Mary. Check out their Happy Hour.
• Roe Seafood (Seafood, ) — Cute back patio to enjoy seafood. Our favorites were the oysters and the Fish and Chips. For more casual bites, check out the Roe Seafood Market next door.

Where to Stay in Long Beach

We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach. It was the perfect location to walk to the Aquarium, ride the AquaLink to the Queen Mary, and take a short ride to the different neighborhoods. They also had a Market and Bar downstairs to pick up food and coffee for days when you want a cozy and late start.

For more accommodation options, search the map below.

Essential Tips for Visiting Long Beach CA

• Dress in Layers. Long Beach weather can be unpredictable, with cooler mornings and warm afternoons. The mornings were cloudy, but the marine layer would burn off by the afternoon. Wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. Bring a daypack to help carry your layers.
• Stay Hydrated! Always carry a water bottle, especially if you spend time outdoors at the beach or walking around town. Refill stations are available at many public places.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes. Since we don’t walk much in Vegas, we took full advantage of the walkable neighborhoods. Whether strolling along the waterfront, exploring shopping districts, or visiting attractions, you will be on your feet.
• Plan Your Parking. Parking can be tricky in popular areas like Belmont Shore and downtown. Look for public parking lots and be prepared to walk. Consider using rideshare services to avoid parking hassles. Check out tips for parking in Long Beach.
• Check Local Events! Long Beach hosts numerous events yearly, from music festivals to farmers’ markets. See the local event calendars here.
• Explore by Bike. Long Beach is bike-friendly, with plenty of bike lanes and rental options.
• Book Tickets Ahead of time for popular attractions, like the Queen Mary and Aquarium, to save time and ensure you get in.
• Respect the Beaches. Dispose of trash properly, follow local guidelines, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Visit During Off-Peak Times. If you can, visit popular attractions during weekdays or early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Long Beach? What else do we need to include in our guide?

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Short on Time? Here’s the TLDR

Best Place to Stay – Le Petit Pali
Can’t Miss Tourist Spot – Carmel Beach
Unique Activity – Plein Air Watercolor Class
For A Dose of Nature – Tidepooling at Weston Beach
Best Thing We Ate – Thai Tea Tiramisu at Jeju Carmel
Best Coffee – Captain and Stoker (this is technically in Monterey, if you’re a coffee snob like me, you will be glad you made the 10-minute detour)

About Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, commonly known as Carmel, is a picturesque town nestled on the California coast. It’s famous for

• art scene
• fairytale cottages
• white sand beach
• being dog-friendly
• being a romantic destination (our friends got engaged here)

Carmel is also so close to Monterey and Big Sur. Many Monterey County communities are only 5-20 minutes away from each other.

Best Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea

1. Stroll ALong Carmel Beach

Ocean Ave & Scenic Rd, Carmel, CA 93923, map

I’m a water baby and love being near the ocean. Jacob, on the other hand, couldn’t care less and gets annoyed by sand getting everywhere. Even if you’re not a beach person, how can you not visit when it’s within walking distance?

We spent an afternoon drawing in the sand, sketching, and reenacting some photos from our friends’ engagement session here. It’s also a good sport for surfing. We saw surfers mostly on the south end of Carmel Beach.

Local Tip: Bring your pets! Carmel Beach is dog-friendly, where they can run off-leash.

Other beaches to check out are Carmel River State Beach, Monastery Beach, and Weston Beach. Moss Beach and Stillwater Cove are also nearby in the Pebble Beach community.

2. Take a Watercolor Lesson by the Sea

Learning something new is my favorite way to explore a new place. I also like adding things to my itinerary that help me slow the day down, like afternoon tea and now plein air painting lessons (French for “in the open air”).

We took a plein air watercolor class from Diane Grindol, where she’ll bring the supplies and knowledge, and you can either choose a location or let her decide since she knows the area well. Ours was in Point Pinos in Pacific Grove, 20 minutes from the heart of Carmel by the Sea.

Get in touch with Diane Grindol at 831.236.8177.

Local Tip: You can also see her work at the Monterey Peninsula Art Gallery.

3. Carmel Art Galleries in Downtown Carmel

Carmel is renowned for its art scene. For a place that’s only within one square mile, it has 100 art galleries. There’s something magical about an area that can inspire and attract artists to work and live here.

Local Tip: Many galleries offer free wine and cheese on the first Friday of each month during the Carmel Art Walk.

4. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

62 California 1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, map

Point Lobos is often called the “crown jewel” of California’s state park system. It’s just as beautiful as Big Sur, but I was pleasantly surprised that it’s not as crowded. This stretch of coast is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and tide pooling is a great activity for both kids and adults.

We tidepooled at Weston Beach, where you commonly see crabs, anemones, sea urchins, sea stars, and more. Be sure to check the tide charts and go at low tide. There are also plenty of hiking trails and vista points. Next time, we want to check out scuba diving!

Local Tip: We went at 9 a.m. for the lowest tide of the day (-0.3 ft), and most lots were small and full except for Weston Beach. When we left at 11 a.m. (0.5 ft), people were still tide pooling.

Wear Sturdy Shoes if you’re tidepooling. The rock is very slick, and we saw a few people slip. We almost had a close call.

5. Garrapata State Park

34500 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, map

I initially thought this was the northernmost part of Big Sur, but it turns out I was wrong, and it’s in Carmel by the Sea.

Garrapata State Park has two miles of beautiful beachfront and hiking trails. It also has Callalily Valley, which is a favorite spot for photographers (unfortunately, timing is tricky, and we were always a week too early or late for them).

Here, you can also spot sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and gray whales during their migration if you’re lucky.

6. Wine Trail / Wine Walk

Carmel-by-the-Sea had 18 tasting rooms, all within walking distance from our hotel. Sign up for the free, mobile Wine Walk guide and go on a wine-tasting journey throughout Carmel-by-the-Sea. It isn’t an app, but they will text you a link, where you can redeem complimentary tapas or wine tastings with a purchase.

We don’t drink as much as we used to, so the photos below were from 10 years ago when we did the wine walk. I don’t believe in spitting out wine, so usually, by the end, I’m a handful (or extra fun, as I like to call it).

Local Tip: If you are going during the holidays or weekends, we recommend making reservations.

7. Folktale Winery

8940 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, map

Folktale Winery & Vineyards is a stunning winery located on 15 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards and gardens. Stop by their wine garden for wine and food, or check out their special events, including concerts, live music, comedy shows, and workshops. They hosted an epic set coursed dinner for us, and it looked like the perfect setting for a wedding.

Local Tip: Even though it’s still considered Carmel by the Sea, you are driving toward Carmel Valley. If you would rather stay in the walkable part of Carmel, check out The Annex, where you can try their wine.

8. Carmel Food Tour

If you want to sample some of the best food in town and get a secret look at places only locals know, go on the Carmel Food Tour! It takes you to 5-6 stops, leaving your belly happy and full. We first learned about the secret alleyways on this food tour.

Local Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes!

9. See the Fairytale Cottages of Carmel

Carmel looks like a fairy tale town thanks to Hugh Comstock, an artist who originally designed cottages for his wife. He eventually went on to design 30 of these fairytale cottages throughout Carmel by the Sea

Local Tip: These are private homes or businesses, so respect their space and privacy.

10. Explore the Alleyways

Another unique part of Carmel-by-the-Sea is the alleyways. When you discover them, it feels like you have found a secret passageway or shortcut, and the fairytale cottages nearby give it that extra magical feel.

11. Whale Watching

Carmel Bay is food-rich making it a favorite spot for whales while they migrate up and down the West Coast. Humpback whales are more common between May and November, and grey whales are more common from July to October. If you’re lucky you can see them from a scenic viewpoint. Otherwise, you can go on a whale-watching tour.

Local Tip: If seeing whales is a priority, you will want to book a tour earlier in the trip in case it gets canceled due to weather. Ours got canceled, but we didn’t have enough days left to reschedule. If your tour is canceled, check out indoor options like Monterey Bay Aquarium or drive over to another microclimate since there are so many within Monterey County. We were surprised that within a 5-10 minute drive, it can be hot and sunny.

See More: 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go

Things to Do Near Carmel by the Sea

12. 17-Mile Drive

17 Mile Dr, Pebble Beach, CA 93953, map

The 17-mile Drive is known as one of the most scenic drives in the world and runs through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove. This famous coastal route offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and the iconic Lone Cypress tree. There are several designated stops.

Local Tip: We’ve done this drive a handful of times, but it was extra fun with the roof down on a classic convertible with Monterey Touring Vehicles.

Thanks, Max Whittaker, for taking the shot of us below.

See More: All the Best Stops on the 17 Mile Drive

13. Monterey →

886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, map

The Monterey Bay communities are very close. I can’t believe it took me this long to realize it. On our most recent trip, we spent time in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, Marina, Moss Landing, and Big Sur since they were all within close driving distance.

If you’re visiting Monterey for the first time, we recommend the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Kayaking with Adventures by the Sea, and Cannery Row.

See More: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Monterey CA

14. Big Sur →

47555 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, map

Big Sur is one of my favorite places on earth. My Bay Area friend took me here back when only Californians knew about it, and I made him stop at every overlook because it was that breathtaking. That was 15 years ago, and since then, it’s become so crowded, but it’s still a stunning place and well worth a visit if you’ve never been.

You shouldn’t miss McWay Falls and the purple sand beach, even though they are popular spots. Check out our full Big Sur guide here.

Local Tip: Expect to share places with crowds. Big Sur is a small community currently being overrun by tourists, so be mindful of others, stay on trails, and follow parking rules. Also, remember that Big Sur is generally warmer than Carmel by the Sea.

See More: 11 Things You Can’t Miss in Big Sur California

15. Pinnacles National Park

Parking lot, 2011 Chaparral Drive, Soledad, CA 93960, map

Pinnacles National Park’s West entrance is only a little over an hour’s drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea. Once you arrive, you can explore the trails and try to spot condors. We did the Balconies Cave Trail, which gave us views and allowed us to explore the caves. Bear Gulch Trail on the East side is also a popular hike but is closed from mid-May to mid-July to protect the bats.

Local Tip: Bring a headlamp if you plan to explore the caves. Some parts are pitch black, and you’ll want your hands free.

Packing Tip: In the summer, Pinnacles is, on average, 15-20 degrees warmer than Carmel by the Sea. I was cold in Carmel and hot in Pinnacles. Brings layers to shed.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Where to Eat in Carmel by the Sea

• Carmel Bakery (Bakeries, ) – On a previous trip, we picked up goodies here and had a picnic on the beach.
• Dametra Cafe (Greek, Mediterranean ) – It has big portions and is really busy. The owner comes out to play guitar and sings occasionally, too.
• Jeju Kitchen (Korean, ) – Korean fusion that hits the spot! Their Thai tea tiramisu is so good.
• Stationaery (Breakfast & Brunch, ) – Cute spot for brunch. I liked their lobster roll.
• Vesuvio (Pizza, ) – Cute rooftop, more for the vibes than for the food, but the food is decent too.
• Captain + Stoker (Coffee, ) – If you’re a coffee snob, I know this one is in Monterey and not Carmel, but this is where you should get your coffee. Luckily, it’s only a 5-10 minute detour.

Where to Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

We stayed at Le Petit Pali during our visit and loved it! The rooms are really cute, freshly baked cookies are delivered to your room every day, and it’s in a great location. It’s across the street from Carmel Plaza, which has good dining options and is pretty much walking distance from everything else in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Our friends also stayed here during their engagement, so we had to reenact some of those photos too!

For more accommodation options, see the map below.

Essential Tips

• Best Time to Visit Carmel – It is warmest in September and October.
• Dress in layers: The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for warm and cool temperatures. We visited in June, September, and December.
• Stay hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your footwear is up to the task.
• Book ahead: Carmel is a popular destination, so make sure to book your accommodations and tours in advance.
• Explore beyond Carmel: Take day trips to nearby communities like Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Big Sur.

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Carmel-by-the-Sea? Share your favorite things to do in the comments below!

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Heads Up: Stay Safe from the Las Vegas Heat

If you visit Las Vegas in the summer, stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and stay out of the sun when possible. Heat stroke is no joke. From June through August, temperatures frequently exceed 100°F (38°C), so we don’t recommend hiking in Red Rock or Valley of Fire (go to Mt Charleston instead).

Heat Stroke happens when your body overheats and can’t cool back down. Signs to look for include:

• High body temp (over 103°F or 39.4°C)
• Confusion or acting weird
• Red, hot, and dry skin or lots of sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fast breathing and heartbeat
• Headaches
• Possible seizures or passing out

If you suspect someone is having a heat stroke, call 911 right away. Cool them in the shade with cold water or ice packs until help arrives.

Tips on Beating the Heat

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine if you’re going to be outside.
2. Wear light-colored, loose clothes. Fabrics that wick away sweat are your best bet.
3. Wear sunglasses: Our friend’s optometrist strongly recommended sunglasses since the sun’s intensity can damage your vision.
4. Slather on Sunscreen: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply every two hours or more if you’re swimming or sweating a lot
5. Take breaks in the shade or indoors, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Use hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas for extra protection.

See More: 25 Fun Indoor Activities in Las Vegas for Scorching Hot Summers

Las Vegas Average Temperatures Monthly

While Las Vegas sees an average of 294 days of sunshine a year, temperatures can vary widely. The average annual temperature is 70.2°F (21.2°C), but it gets sweltering June through August and cold December through February (not as cold as our northern and midwestern states, but our soft SoCal friends will find it too cold). In this post, I’ll break down the weather and events by month to help you plan your trip

VEGAS IN Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

Best Time to Visit Las Vegas by Month

January in Las Vegas →

January is one of the coldest months in Las Vegas, but visitors from colder climates will find it pleasantly mild. It’s prime rock climbing temperatures in Red Rock, so these climbing areas are typically more crowded (although it’s rained so much the past two years we haven’t gotten much climbing in).

• Temperature: Low of 28° to high of 59°
• Rain: About 3 days of rain
• Sunshine: 210 hours
• Events: New Year’s Eve, CES

See More: January Events in Las Vegas You Can’t Miss

Las Vegas in February →

February is chilly but not as cold as January. It’s a quieter month after the holiday festivities, except for the Superbowl or Valentine’s Day.

• Temperature: Low of 33° to high of 66°
• Rain: About 4 days of rain
• Sunshine: 215 hours
• Events: Valentine’s Day on the Strip, Magic Trade Show

See More: Best Things to Do in Vegas in February

March in Las Vegas →

March marks the beginning of spring, bringing more moderate temperatures. Avoiding crowds is challenging with staggered Spring Breaks, St. Patrick’s Day, and March Madness fans. If you’re heading off-strip, it’s a great time to explore the outdoors.

• Temperature: Low of 39° to high of 72°
• Rain: About 3 days of rain
• Sunshine: 265 hours
• Events: March Madness, St. Patrick’s Day, Spring Break

See More: Things to Do in Las Vegas in March

April in Las Vegas →

April starts getting days that hit the 90s. We still spend time outside but start transitioning to explore the “great indoors” on the hotter days.

• Temperature: Low of 45° to high of 81°
• Rain: About 2 days of rain
• Sunshine: 310 hours
• Events: The Academy of Country Music Awards, NAB

See More: April Las Vegas Shows & Events You Can’t Miss

May in Las Vegas →

EDC and Memorial Day Weekend are two busy times in Las Vegas in May, which you should avoid if you don’t like crowds and higher hotel rates. May is now the start of the summer tourist season! The nights are still cool, so if you want to spend time outdoors, go for early mornings and late evenings.

• Temperature: Low of 53° to high of 90°
• Rain: About 1 day of rain
• Sunshine: 350 hours
• Events: Cinco de Mayo, EDC, Memorial Day

See More: Las Vegas Events in May and Shows You Can’t Miss

June in Las Vegas →

June is hot, and the start of the peak pool party season. We spend much less time outdoors unless it’s in a pool. It’s officially the time of year to explore indoors!

• Temperature: Low of 61° to high of 102°
• Rain: Less than 1 day of rain
• Sunshine: 375 hours
• Events: The World Series of Poker begins in June, Pool Parties

See More: The Best Las Vegas Events in June

Las Vegas in July →

July is the hottest month of the year, but the city is buzzing with activity. There are tons of pool parties and concerts, plus you can see the Strip light up with fireworks on the 4th of July. If you’re a basketball fan, the NBA Summer League happens in Vegas.

• Temperature: Low of 67° to high of 107°
• Rain: Less than 1 day of rain
• Sunshine: 370 hours
• Events: Fourth of July, NBA Summer

See More: Las Vegas Events and Shows in July

August in Las Vegas →

If you like the heat but want to avoid crowds, August is a great month to visit. Pool parties and day clubs are still fully running, but the summer crowds are starting to die down. Hotels are typically cheaper in August than the rest of the summer.

• Temperature: Low of 66° to high of 104°
• Rain: About 2 days of rain
• Sunshine: 365 hours
• Events: Def Con (hacker convention)

See More: Things to Do in Las Vegas in August

September in Las Vegas →

September sees a drop in temperatures and crowds. It also brings Life is Beautiful to downtown Las Vegas, which combines music, art, and food.

• Temperature: Low of 57° to high of 96°
• Rain: About 2 days of rain
• Sunshine: 330 hours
• Events: Labor Day Weekend, Life is Beautiful

See More: September Events in Las Vegas

October in Las Vegas →

The weather starts to cool in October (although for fall, it’s still warm). Celebrate Oktoberfest or head out to the desert for RiSE Fest, the largest sky lantern festival in the world. Locals love going to Gilcrease Orchard to pick pumpkins and enjoy apple cider donuts.

• Temperature: Low of 46° to high of 83°
• Rain: About 2 days of rain
• Sunshine: 295 hours
• Events: Halloween, Las Vegas Pride Festival, RiSE Festival

See More: October Las Vegas Shows and Events

November in Las Vegas →

Come November, you’ll find us spending more time outside hiking and climbing during the day. In the evening, we’re soaking in a hot tub or cozying up inside. We don’t see much fall foliage in Las Vegas, but you can find some pockets in North Vegas.

• Temperature: Low of 35° to high of 70°
• Rain: About 2 days of rain
• Sunshine: 230 hours
• Events: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon, Thanksgiving

See More: November Las Vegas Shows and Events

December in Las Vegas →

We love Las Vegas in December. The weather is cold, and the city dresses up for holiday events, making it extra magical. There are also all the NYE celebrations happening.

• Temperature: Low of 27° to high of 60°
• Rain: About 2 days of rain
• Sunshine: 200 hours
• Events: The National Finals Rodeo, Holiday Events, NYE

See More: The Best Things to Do in December in Las Vegas

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Essential Tips for Visiting Las Vegas

• Want to avoid crowds? Weekdays and early mornings, in general, are quieter than nights and weekends.
• Pack layers. In the winter it’s cold at night. I’ve seen people show up in tshirts who have to buy sweaters when they arrive. In the summer, the AC is always pumping indoors. I keep a light jacket in the car year-round.
• Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities.
• Visiting on a budget? These are the top free things to do in Las Vegas.
• Buy tickets early to popular shows and events. They sell out quickly!
• Save money on last-minute tickets at Tix4Vegas booths at Bally’s Grand Bazaar Shops, Showcase Mall, and Casino Royale if you’re flexible with shows (most likely not the popular ones). Tickets on Demand has permanently closed.
• Read all the fine print before you go. Some shows limit what you can bring in (ie, no large bags).
• Stay on the Strip if you want a quintessential touristy Vegas experience. Here are the top things to do on the Las Vegas Strip.
• Stay in Downtown Vegas if you want to hang out with locals in East Fremont. Here are the top things to do in Downtown Las Vegas (DTLV)
• Bring comfortable shoes. You end up walking a lot in Vegas.

VEGAS IN Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

What months have you visited Las Vegas? Which is your favorite month to visit?

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About the National Park by Month Series

To put together this list, we’ve combined our personal experiences and tips we gathered from locals and cross-referenced them with the weather, accessibility, local forums, seasonal attractions like fall foliage or wildflowers, and special events happening in the area. We also considered any unique adventures only offered at certain times of the year to find the most optimal months to visit each National Park. Phew! That was a lot!

It took me a whole week of research, but since I’m a maximizer, it was completely worth having a year-round calendar of adventures (publishing that soon!). Also, check out our complete list of all the national parks and all national park units that include soon-to-be national parks.

We also chose not to include the hardest-to-access national parks in Alaska and the ones in U.S. territories in this series.

National Parks By Month: Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

Is July a Good Time to Visit National Parks?

July is the peak season for many National Parks, but July and August are your only options at the parks with short seasons. The parks that close access to trails and roads because of snow are typically fully open by July, and the long days take the pressure off if you want to take longer hikes at a slower pace.

One of the main cons is the crowds. Because of the high demand, you can expect higher prices for accommodations and flights. We recommend avoiding the desert parks, like Death Valley or Joshua Tree, because it’s unbearably hot.

Are national parks open on July 4th?

Most national parks are open on July 4th, but double-check with each specific national park in case there are special closures.

Plan on visiting more than two national parks this year? Pick up an America the Beautiful annual pass to save money (entrance fees to each park are, on average, $30-35 per vehicle). Plus, you are helping support the Parks that always need funding.

9 Best National Parks to Visit in July

For the Events

1. Badlands National Park for the Astronomy Festival →

43.6835523,-102.6622546, map

Average Temperatures: 60° F / 90° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:15 AM / 8:30 PM

Why Visit: The Badlands Astronomy Festival happens every July, and they’ve partnered with NASA this year. During the day, you can explore the dramatic landscapes, see the wildlife, then turn your eyes to the sky when the sun goes down.

Best For / Top Activities: Scenic Drives, Wildlife Viewing, Stargazing, Hiking

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Fossil Preparation Lab, Sage Creek Rim Road, Sheep Mountain Table, Badlands Loop Road
• Wildlife – Bison, Prairie Dogs, Bighorn Sheep, Black-Footed Ferret
• How many days do you need? 1-3

Pro Tip: Most of the highlights can be seen from the scenic drives, but hop out for some easy hikes (most are 1.25 miles or less).

See More: 9 Incredible Things to Do in Badlands National Park South Dakota

For the Short Season

2. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon →

Crater Lake National Park, Rim Village, OR 97604, map

Average Temperatures: 40° F / 70° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:40 AM / 8:45 PM

Why Visit: Visit Crater Lake from July to September since all the roads and facilities are typically open and the weather is warm. On our first visit, we went in June, and half of the park loop was still closed due to snow (they average 40 feet of snow each year). Since snowfall and snowmelt can vary yearly, check their website for closures for the most up-to-date info.

Best For / Top Activities: Hikers and Backpackers, Tours, Photography, Scenic Drives, Swimming

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Rim Drive, Boat Tour, Visit Wizard Island
• Wildlife – Black Bears, Porcupines, Elks, Coyotes, Mazama Newt
• How many days do you need? 1-3

Pro Tip: Be prepared for chilly water if you plan to swim!

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Crater Lake National Park

3. Denali National Park, Alaska →

Park Rd, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK 99755, map

Average Temperatures: 49°F / 67°F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 4:30 AM / 11:30 PM

Why Visit: Denali also has a very short season, and the long days (almost neverending) and warmer weather make it one of the best national parks to visit in July. Although you can’t drive into the park (you must shuttle in), it is one of the few national parks in Alaska you can drive to, which is why we included it. During the summer, shuttle buses run up and down Denali Park Road, where you can spot lots of wildlife.

Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Scenic Drive, Wildlife Viewing, Photography, Tours

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Tundra Wilderness Tour, Flightseeing Tour, Canine Rangers
• Wildlife – Dall Sheep, Moose, Caribou, Wolves, Grizzly Bears, Foxes
• How many days do you need? 2-4

Pro Tip: Private vehicles can only drive for the first 15 miles (except for rare circumstances like the Denali Road lottery which is very difficult to get). Beyond this point, you will have to ride the park shuttle.

See More: 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Denali National Park

4. Glacier National Park, Montana →

Logan’s Pass Visitor Center, Browning, MT 59417, map

Average Temperatures: 45° F / 77° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:45 AM / 9:30 PM

Why Visit: The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road (one of the best scenic drives in the US) is finally open in July, giving you some of the best leisure views in the park. Plus, wildflowers bloom in the meadows. Remember to get a permit to drive the road or book a tour if you want to focus on the views.

Best For / Top Activities: Scenic Drive, Hiking / Backpacking, Kayaking, Tours, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Going-to-the-Sun Road (requires a permit), Red Bus Tour, Lake McDonald, Goose Island (from The Shining)
• Wildlife – Deer, Marmots, Mountain Goats, Big Horned Sheep, Grizzly Bears, Black Bears
• How many days do you need? 2-4

Local Tip: Some people say you should go in September, since you may also get a chance to see fall colors. It’s cooler, and much less crowded since school will have started back up, but you risk parts of the park closing due to weather.

See More: 9 Incredible Things to Do in Glacier National Park

5. Great Basin National Park, Nevada →

100 Great Basin, Baker, NV 89311, map

Average Temperatures: 55° F / 85° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:45 AM / 8:15 PM

Why Visit: Great Basin is one of the best national parks to visit in July because of the short season. The weather in July is great for climbing the second-highest peak in Nevada (Wheeler Peak), touring Lehman Caves, and seeing wildlife and wildflowers. It also has some of the best skies for stargazing.

Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Stargazing

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Bristlecone Trail, Lehman Caves, Wheelers Peak, Stella Lake
• Wildlife – Water Shrews, Voles, Porcupines, Beavers, Ringtail Cats, Marmots, Bobcats, Mountain Lions
• How many days do you need? 1-3

Local Tip: If you’re super into astronomy, visit in September when they have their annual Astronomy Festival.

See More: 7 Things You Can’t Miss in Great Basin National Park

6. North Cascades National Park, Washington →

376 Newhalem St, Marblemount, WA 98267, map

Average Temperatures: 50° F / 75° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:15 AM / 9:00 PM

Why Visit: North Cascades National Park also has a short season, and to truly experience and access most of the park, you need to hike. July has great weather to be outside. We did the scenic drive on our last visit, but we need to go back for the iconic hikes. It’s also one of the least visited national parks in the US, so you can go here to avoid the typical summer crowds.

Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Fishing

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Scenic Drive along North Cascades Highway, Cascade Pass, Sahale Arm, Washington Pass Overlook, Diablo Lake Vista Point, Stehekin
• Wildlife – Black Bears, Gray Wolves, Elks, Beavers, Bobcats
• How many days do you need? 1-3

Pro Tip: Plan ahead since you can only access Stehekin Valley by foot, boat, or plane.

See More: 7 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park

7. Olympic National Park, Washington →

3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, map

Average Temperatures: 50° F / 70° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:30 AM / 9:00 PM

Why Visit: July is a great time to visit Olympic National Park. The mild weather makes it pleasant to be outside. The park is massive, with multiple ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and alpine regions. Plus, July is a great time to check out the tide pools and beaches.

Best For / Top Activities: Hiking / Backpacking, Tidepools, Scenic Drives, White Water Rafting, Kayaking

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, Rialto Beach, Storm King, Sol Duc Falls, Shi Shi Beach
• Wildlife – Deer, Elk, Cougars, Bears, Beaver, Mink, Salmon
• How many days do you need? 2-4

Local Tip: It’s always smart to have a raincoat with you just in case.

See More: 15 Things to Do in Olympic National Park

For the Great Weather

8. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado →

11999 CO-150, Mosca, CO 81146, map

Average Temperatures: 50° F / 82° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:45 AM / 8:30 PM

Why Visit: Visit Great Sand Dunes in July for the warm weather. You can hike the tallest dunes in North America and even sandboard or sled down the dunes. Medano Creek should flow at the dune’s base, giving you an almost beach-like experience in the mountains.

Best For / Top Activities: Hiking, Sand Boarding, Off-Roading, Stargazing, Photography

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – High Dune, Sand Boarding, Medano Creek, Zapata Falls
• Wildlife – Mule Deer, Ord’s Kangaroo Rats, Black Bears, Abert’s Squirrels, Pronghorn, Pikas, Elk
• How many days do you need? 1-3

Local Tip: The dune’s surface temperatures can still get hot, so feel it before you commit.

See More: 9 Things You Can’t Miss at Great Sand Dunes National Park

9. Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park, California →

47050 Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, CA 93271, map

Average Temperatures: 50° F / 80° F
Average Sunrise / Sunset Times: 5:45 AM / 8:15 PM

Why Visit: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are next to each other, so most visitors treat them like one big park. The weather is great in July, so you can explore the giant sequoia forests or jump in the river when it’s hot.

Best For / Top Activities: Hikers / Backpackers, Scenic Drive, Photography, Swimming

Don’t Miss:

• To Do – Grant Drove, Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock
• Wildlife – Coyotes, Badgers, Black Bears, Deer, Wolverines, Beavers
• How many days do you need? 2-3

See More: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Map of the Best National Parks to Visit in July

More National Parks to Visit in July

• Acadia National Park, Maine – great weather
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – great weather
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee – great weather
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington – wildflowers
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado – wildflowers
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming – weather and wildlife
• Yosemite National Park, California – weather

Tips for Visiting National Parks in July

• Use the Leave No Trace principles. Have a plan, stay on established trails, carry out anything you carry in, leave what you find, minimize campfire impact, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others.
• Pick up the National Park Annual Pass if you plan on visiting multiple parks within the year. It saves you a lot of money.
• Want to see wildflowers? Climate change and droughts can make timing unpredictable. We typically scroll through Instagram or TikTok and look for non-influencers. 
• Packing layers is always a good idea when traveling. Some parks drastically change temperatures from day to night. Pay attention to the elevation change. A general rule is that it’s 5 degrees cooler for every 1000 ft elevation.
• You may need a reservation. See national parks that now require reservations here.
• Closures – Always check the park’s site and Visitors Center for the most up-to-date information on closures.
• Remember that wildlife is wild. Be familiar with how to interact with animals and how much space you should have between you and them. Generally, you should stay 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators, but each park has different rules.

What to Pack

How you pack depends on the parks and activities, but here are general items we always pack.

• Camera Gear
• Travel Backpack
• Camping / Backpacking Equipment
• National Park Annual Pass
• National Park Passport
• Layers (The Best Travel Jackets)
• Solid Hiking Shoes

Recap of the 9 Best National Parks to Visit in July

May is a great time to explore the National parks. Here is a list of parks we recommend visiting.

1. Badlands National Park, South Dakota
2. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
3. Denali National Park, Alaska
4. Glacier National Park, Montana
5. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
6. North Cascades National Park, Washington
7. Olympic National Park, Washington
8. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
9. Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park, California

National Parks By Month: Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

Can you think of others that belong on this list of best National Parks to visit in July? Which ones are we missing?

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TLDR

Why May? – May is a great time to visit the USA because the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with spring in full bloom across many regions. It’s before the peak summer crowds, so you can enjoy popular destinations with fewer tourists and lower prices. Whether you’re exploring national parks, cities, or beaches, May offers the perfect mix of comfortable temperatures and vibrant landscapes!

Best Destinations to Visit in May – Louisville, Asheville, Grand Canyon, San Diego, Jackson Hole

5 Best Places to Visit in May in USA

1. Louisville, Kentucky

36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, map

Don’t Miss: The Kentucky Derby, Bourbon Trail, Waterfront Park
What to Eat: 610 Magnolia, CASK, Jack Fry’s
Where to Stay: Find Hotel Deals in Louisville
Weather Avg: 56° / 78° F (Avg 9 Days of Rain)

May is the best month to visit Louisville, Kentucky. The Kentucky Derby, known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” takes place on the first Saturday in May. The Kentucky Derby Festival happens during the two weeks leading up to the festival with multiple events such as Thunder Over Louisville (a massive fireworks display), the Pegasus Parade, the Great Balloon Race, and many others.

You also get mild temperatures for outdoor activities and flowers blooming in various city parks and gardens. Even though you get an influx of people during the Kentucky Derby, the rest of the month is relatively quiet compared to the peak summer months.

May Events in Louisville: Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Derby Festival (two weeks prior to Kentucky Derby), Bourbon and Beyond

See More: 15 Best Places to Visit in July in USA

2. Asheville, NC →

36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, map

Don’t Miss: 15 Best Hikes Nearby, The Biltmore Estate, These Photo Spots
What to Eat: Best Places to Eat in Asheville NC
Where to Stay: Best Places to Stay in Asheville NC
Weather Avg: 53° / 75° F (Avg 8 Days of Rain)

April and May in Asheville are a nature lover’s dream, with blooming flowers and perfect hiking temperatures. If you’re craving more nature, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just a short drive away.

May is also a great time to enjoy the park’s beauty without the summer crowds.

If you don’t enjoy the outdoors, head into town to check out its amazing culinary scene and local photo spots. There are also several food, beer, art, and music festivals happening.

May Events in Asheville: Chihuly at Biltmore, Concerts on the Creek, Garden Jubilee Festival, Asheville Beer Week

See More: Ultimate Asheville Bucket List – 101 Things to Do in Asheville NC

3. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ →

S Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, map

Things You Can’t Miss: Mather Point, Bright Angel Point, Grandview Point
What to Eat: El Tavor Lodge Dining Room, Yavapai Cafe, Roughrider Saloon
Where to Stay: Search for Grand Canyon Hotel Deals
Weather Avg: 81° / 59° F

The Grand Canyon is another great US destination to visit in May. The weather isn’t too hot, you avoid the summer crowds, and wildflowers begin to bloom.

The longer days give you plenty of time to explore, and most hikes are open by May.

See More: 15 Best National Parks to Visit in May

4. San Diego, CA →

996 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, map

Things You Can’t Miss: Balboa Park, Sunset Cliffs, Paragliding at Torrey Pines
What to Eat: Carnitas Snack Shack, Tacos El Gordo
Where to Stay: Book a Hotel in San Diego (San Diego Hotel Deals)
Weather Avg: 60° / 69° F (Avg 0 Days of Rain)

San Diego is one of the best places to visit in May in USA, since it’s prime whale-watching season for gray whales migrating along the coast up to Alaska. Although you may get May Gray, where the mornings are foggy, it usually clears by mid-day. It strikes a good balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds.

Overcast mornings can also give you cooler hiking temps (one of our favorite hikes).

May Events in San Diego: Cinco de Mayo, The Flower Fields, Gator by the Bay, Waterfront

See More: Ultimate San Diego Bucket List – 101 Things to Do in San Diego CA

5. Jackson Hole, WY →

532 N Cache St, Jackson, WY 83001, map

Things You Can’t Miss: The Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole
What to Eat: Persephone Bakery, Hand Fire Pizza, Gather
Where to Stay: Search Jackson Hole Hotel Map
Weather Avg: 35° / 60° F (Avg 8 Days of Rain)

Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park‘s trails and roads start opening up more in May. As the snow melts, wildlife emerges as they search for food. Plus, you’ll be here before the summer crowds.

Later in May, wildflowers will start to bloom at lower elevations.

May Events in Jackson Hole: Old West Days, Jackson Hole Shootout, Million Dollar Music Fest, Old West Brew Fest

See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming

Map of the Best US Places to Visit in May

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TLDR

Location – Las Vegas isn’t just a top travel destination—it’s also an exciting place to call home. With no state income tax, a lower cost of living than many major cities, and a thriving job market, it’s an attractive choice for professionals, families, and retirees alike. Beyond the famous Strip, you’ll find welcoming neighborhoods, great dining, outdoor adventures, and a growing arts and culture scene.

Pros – Great base for outdoors, low cost of living, traffic & parking, good airport, 24/7 attractions, great weather most of the year, fairly diverse, growing sports city

Cons – Summer heat, no seasons, lack of greenery, really dry, not a trendsetting city, no public transportation, transient city, hard water

Have you considered living in Las Vegas or do you currently live here? Can you think of any other pros and cons?

TLDR

Location – Arches National Park is located in eastern Utah, just north of Moab. It is famous for its stunning red rock formations, including over 2,000 natural stone arches, pinnacles, and massive rock fins.

Timed Tickets – Timed Entry Tickets are now required from April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31, 2025. It doesn’t cost extra but there is a $2 service fee. If you have camping, backcountry, Fiery Furnace, or special use permits, they qualify as your ticket. You also don’t need one if you are doing a tour with an approved company.

Hikes / Attractions – Devils Garden (our fave), Delicate Arch, Double Arch

Wildlife – Mule Deer, Desert Cottontail Rabbits, Coyotes, Kangaroo Rats, Western Rattlesnakes, Western Collared Lizards, Golden Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Tarantulas, Scorpions

11 Best Hikes in Arches National Park You Simply Can’t Miss

1. Balanced Rock

Distance: 0.3 Mile   |   Difficulty: Easy

You get a great view of this picturesque rock from the road, but this short stroll gets you right next to it to really appreciate its size and keeps you hoping that the rock stays balanced. 

See More: 9 Things You Can’t Miss at Arches National Park

2. Double Arch

Distance: 0.5 Mile   |   Difficulty: Easy

This gravel-surfaced trail takes you to the base of two giant arches that span above you.

See More: 9 Most Famous Arches in Arches National Park

3. Windows Loop

Distance: 1 Mile   |   Difficulty: Easy

A well-marked trail takes you to North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. You can climb into both the North Window and Turret Arch for great photo ops, but can only see the South Window from below. (Has anyone scrambled up there? It doesn’t look easy.)

4. Landscape Arch

Distance: 1.6 Miles   |   Difficulty: Easy

This is a relatively easy hike in Devils Garden and takes you to one of most recognizable arches in the park. You also have optional side trips to Tunnel and Pine Tree arches.

5. Broken Arch Loop

Distance: 2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Easy

Most people skip over Broken Arch for the more popular arches, so it leaves it less crowded. It’s a relatively easy hike and you get to play under an arch (that doesn’t look broken at all. It does have a split though)!

6. Park Avenue

Distance: 2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Moderate

This hike works best if you have someone who isn’t interested and just wants to drive. You can get dropped off at the Park Avenue parking area, then follow the trail through the canyon until you reach the Courthouse Towers where they pick you up!

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Arches National Park

7. Fiery Furnace

Distance: 2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

This hike can only be accessed through a ranger-led hike. Sign up at the visitor center, and explore this labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons. It does require scrambling! Sign up early. When we arrived, all the slots were taken.

8. Delicate Arch →

Distance: 3.2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

Slick rock and no shade can make this trail difficult. During the day it can be brutally hot. It is easily one of the most crowded hikes since it’s the most popular arch in the world. Check out our guide for the Delicate Arch hike.

See More: Delicate Arch Hike in Arches National Park

9. Tower Arch

Distance: 3.4 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

This trail has steep climbs and has you walking through sandstone fins and sand dunes, but you get to visit a unique arch with a tower attached! This is a great hike to get away from the crowds.

10. Double O Arch (Includes Landscape Arch)

Distance: 4.5 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

Although the beginning of this hike is easy, it starts to get more difficult after you pass Landscape Arch. There are narrow ledges and areas with exposure to drop-offs.

11. Devils Garden (Primitive Trail, Includes Double O and Landscape) →

Distance: 7.8 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

This hike was the highlight of our trip, and we highly recommend it! It gives you a chance to see multiple arches, including Landscape and Double O. The arches are beautiful, but the hike itself is also very fun and diverse. It requires some scrambling and has some exposure to heights. We saw some folks turn back.

I have a terrible fear of heights, but it wasn’t as bad as I anticipated. You should be fine as long as you have a good pair of hiking shoes with good traction.

See More: How to Hike the Devil’s Garden Trail Arches National Park

Map of the Best Hikes in Arches National Park

Essential Tips

• Pick up a National Park Annual Pass, especially if you’re planning on visiting the other parks in the area. It will save you money and time.
• We love collecting stamps at the National Parks on our National Park Passport.
• It’s good to have solid hiking shoes, especially on the longer hikes since there will be scrambling involved.
• Get AllTrails+ so you have access to the trail maps offline.
• Bring lots of water! These are our favorite travel water bottles. We usually carry a bladder on the longer hikes and an insulated water bottle (we like the trail series) for shorter hikes.

Best Places to Stay in Arches National Park

What’s Nearby

• Canyonlands National Park (26.2 mi / 30 min, map)
• Capitol Reef National Park (133 mi / 2 hr 5 min, map)
• Mesa Verde National Park (150 mi / 2 hr 50 min, map)
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Park (191 mi / 3 hr 22 min, map)

Planning Checklist

More Resources

• Arches & Canyonlands National Park Guide
• Best Easy Day Hikes Canyonlands and Arches National Parks
• Utah Map
• Arches National Park Map
• Annual National Park Pass
• USA National Parks Guide
• National Park Passport

Have you been to Arches National Park? What were your favorite spots there?

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