Adventure Travel, Camping/Glamping/RVs, Camping/Hiking/Outdoors, Family Travel, Road Trip, Tips for Travel, travel gear

Traveling by Road or Air? These Items Keep Your Adventure Memorable in a Good Way

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The Olight ArkPro Ultra flashlight is a comfort to have in case of emergency on a dark road (photo: Olight)

by Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Vacationers are taking to the roads and taking in special events for America’s 250th , state fairs, and sports events in huge numbers. Some new gear can make your trip that much safer, more comfortable and more satisfying. Indeed, travel is an adventure- the trick is to make the adventure (and inevitable difficulties that add spice to the experience) as manageable, even pleasurable as possible, and memorable in a good way.

The Xplora smartwatch is designed to provide kidswith an age-appropriate way to stay connected (photo: Xplora)

One of my biggest fears has always been to lose track of my child when at some big, crowded festival, event or attraction, especially a nighttime concert. I was enthusiastic to learn about Xplora,  a smartwatch designed to provide kids with a safe and age-appropriate way to stay connected, without a phone. The feature-rich devices allow children to call and chat with pre-approved contacts, track their steps, capture moments with a built-in camera, and use GPS tracking for safety. Parents maintain full control through the Xplora Parent App. (Price: $129.99+, Available at Amazon, Walmart, Target)

Another idea to alleviate stress of a child getting lost is to attach a smart luggage tag to your child’s belt, belt loop or pocket (also good to put in your backpack and not just your luggage).

Another major fear I have is getting stuck on a dark road with a failed car battery.

BoostHero Vehicle Jump Starter, Flashlight & Power Bank is an all-in-one portable device that comes to the rescue (photo: BoostHero)

BoostHero Vehicle Jump Starter, Flashlight & Power Bank is an all-in-one portable vehicle jump starter, flashlight, and 6,000mAh power bank. It comes to the rescue whether you’re facing a dead car battery, need a reliable light source, or just want to charge your devices (as I found out). With an impressive 800A peak jump-starting power, this compact device can safely revive vehicles up to 6.0L gas and 4.0L diesel engines. The 4-mode flashlight ensures you’re never left in the dark, and the IP65 water and dust resistance adds durability for tough conditions. Lightweight, versatile, and always reliable, and compact. BoostHero is your go-to for emergencies and outdoor adventures.

The Olight ArkPro Ultra is flat, 115 grams, fits in a glovebox without displacing anything, and it does four things: Green laser for signaling (more visible than red in daylight, if you’re stranded somewhere genuinely remote, a green laser pointed at an approaching vehicle or aircraft carries distance a flashlight beam can’t, a low-key life-safety feature that most people won’t need until they really need it); 1,700-lumen pure flood for under-hood work (wide, even, hotspot-free. Magnetic tail locks to any metal surface hands-free); 800-lumen spotlight at 205 meters (scan a dark shoulder, flag down traffic, read a sign from a distance); UV at 365nm for leak detection (add fluorescent dye to your oil, coolant, or A/C refrigerant, run the car, sweep the ArkPro Ultra along hoses, gaskets, and fittings, leaks glow bright green-yellow, or check hotel linens). The CNC-machined O-Aluminum unibody is 1.73x harder than 6061, IPX7 and 1m drop rated, USB-C rechargeable from any car port or power bank. (ArkPro Ultra Onyx Black MSRP: $129.99).

The Baton Series is great in hotel rooms, especially when traveling with children. Moonlight mode doubles as a safe nightlight in unfamiliar rooms, and the dual-switch tail cap gives instant-on access in an emergency, no fumbling in the dark. The rotating hidden USB-C port charges from any travel adapter without breaking down. (Baton 4 Pro MSRP: $62.99; Baton Ultra MSRP: $89.99).

Having an infant doesn’t have to snafu your lust for travel, but traveling with an infant poses extra challenges especially when you are changing time zones, in unfamiliar places to nurse, change diapers, nap.

The LectroFan Alpha sound machine helps baby sleep when you are on the go or in unfamiliar places (photo: LectroFan Alpha)

LectroFan Alpha: With its small size, the Alpha sound machine is perfect for travel, whether you want to help baby sleep while you’re on the go, in the car or in the stroller, or to cover up noises while the family shares a hotel room or tent or cabin and calm the baby in unfamiliar places. It plays your choice of seven gentle, soothing sounds, including a heart beat, two different fans, two white noise variations (pink noise and brown noise), and two variations of ocean waves. It recharges with the included USB cable, so there’s never a need to bring batteries, and it plays for up to 40 hours per charge at normal volume. The included clip makes it easy to attach to car seats, cribs, strollers ($29.95, Available on Amazon)

The Travel Diaper Backpack smartly organizes essentials (photo: Travel Diaper Backpack)

Sleek, organized, Travel Diaper Backpack is designed for long days on the move, with smart compartments that make daily outings and weekend trips feel effortless. It is lightweight, smartly organizes all essentials, and made of durable, water-resistant materials ($150)

Another is DiaperBuddy, a compact, all‑in‑one organizer that keeps diapers, wipes, waste bags, and must‑have extras neatly in place, so there is no more digging through an overstuffed bag or scrambling mid‑meltdown. Made from durable, food‑grade silicone that’s BPA-, BPS-, and PVC‑free, it’s dishwasher‑safe, reusable and designed to fit seamlessly into real family routines. Whether you’re navigating airport security, pulling over on a road trip, or changing baby at a rest stop, DiaperBuddy helps make every quick change cleaner, faster and stress‑free. Visit www.shopdiaperbuddy.com.

TernX Carry-On Luggage Stroller is a hybrid stroller and carry-on suitcase (photo: TernX)

TernX Carry-On Luggage Stroller  is a hybrid stroller and certified carry-on suitcase that doesn’t require unpacking when switching modes. Ideal for airports, city travel, and quick getaways. It transforms from carry-on luggage into a travel stroller in seconds, with no unpacking required. Created by parents who wanted to keep traveling with their kids (not in spite of them), it simplifies airport days, tight connections, and family trips. It fits in overhead compartments; 18L storage capacity; is lightweight with independent front-wheel suspension; ergonomic reclining seat with expandable backrest for growing kids; has a UPF 50+ extendable sun canopy and adjustable five-point harness; is ASTM certified; transitions seamlessly from travel days to everyday use at home. Featured on Shark Tank, included among TIME Best Inventions of the Year, and winner of 7 international awards ($699).

KEEP>GOING First Aid Kits are a must‑pack essential. Designed by a mom of four, these TSA‑approved kits are stocked with 130+ everyday necessities in a compact case that fits easily into carry‑ons, beach bags, glove compartments, and hiking packs. They’re ready for everything from campground splinters to theme‑park blisters to road‑trip mishaps. Available in four sizes and fun prints; the new Pet Kit keeps furry travel buddies covered too. Explore the full collection at www.KeepGoingFirstAid.com and Amazon.

Mozy Wearable Thermal Wrap is designed for those early‑morning departures, breezy beach days, or cool campground evenings and mornings. Its patented thermal design traps and recirculates body heat for up to 500% more warmth than traditional outerwear, giving parents and kids a cozy buffer against unpredictable spring and summer weather. Water‑resistant, wind‑blocking, and totally hands‑free, it clips around the waist to keep core and legs warm while you move. Perfect for sunrise hikes, boat rides, sports sidelines, and any adventure where temps dip unexpectedly. Visit www.getthemozy.com.

Illo sleep mask is designed to help people rest better, anywhere (photo: Illo)

illo sleep mask is a wearable sleep companion designed to help people rest better, anywhere.  Crafted from soft mulberry silk, it can be used as a sleep mask or neck pillow, perfect for naps, bedtime, or travel. illo combines both: pillowy support, full blackout, and soothing calm for deeper rest anywhere. The oversized pillow shape wraps around your face and blocks light from every angle so your brain knows it’s time to sleep.  Whether you’re in bed, on a plane, or catching a nap between meetings or feedings, illo blocks light, muffles sound, and wraps your head or neck in ultra-soft comfort. Its proprietary plush core is encased in breathable bamboo mesh and finished with a blend of mulberry silk and Modal against the skin. illo is compact, comforting, and comes in a sleek nylon drawstring pouch. ($39.99. Available on Amazon)

Nocs Provisions Field Issue binochulars turn your smartphone into a long-focus camera (photo: Nocs Provisions)

Here’s an alternative to taking a camera with a long lens on your birding and wildlife adventures and boosting your smartphone into a long-focus camera: The Nocs Provisions Field Issue binoculars aren’t just for spotting; they act as a high-fidelity optical bridge for your phone. By shooting through the eyepiece, you get the equivalent of an 8x zoom lens, allowing for ultra-crisp, detailed shots of distant subjects that a digital smartphone zoom usually turns into pixels. Pairs with the Nocs Photo Rig Smartphone Adapter for easy, precise alignment (see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbH7eQuhhwQ).

Nocs Provisions has formed a partnership with the National Audubon Society, bridging the “old guard” of conservation and the new generation of outdoor enthusiasts. While birding has historically been seen as a high-barrier hobby, this partnership is built on the shared belief that accessible gear leads to better stewardship. By pairing Nocs’ modern, inclusive approach to optics with Audubon’s 120-year legacy, this partnership is about making birding more approachable for the millions of Americans now participating in the hobby.

adidas Sport SPO110 is designed for adventure (photo: adidas Sport)

adidas Sport has designed the SP0110 to handle high-altitude exposure. The ultra-lightweight frame features removable side shields that increase protection from sun and wind when you’re above the tree line. To ensure a secure fit during technical descents, the frames are equipped with adjustable nose pads and high-grip temple tips that keep everything locked in place. These frames feature high-performance lenses equipped with precision mirror coatings to cut glare from reflective surfaces, optimizing vision in diverse outdoor environments. For athletes facing unpredictable weather, the lenses include a protective coating to repel water, sweat, oil, and dirt. Additionally, the integrated high-contrast technology provides superior color brilliance, allowing you to better distinguish terrain changes and obstacles. 

Did you overdo it on that hike or run? AnySLEEVE™ by TheraICE™ is an all-in-one, one-size fits all compression wrap designed to deliver expert-grade hot and cold therapy wherever you need it most, a game-changing compression solution designed for any size person and any body part. Whether it’s calves, knees, elbows, or areas that need customizable support, the AnySLEEVE™ adapts to your body and your sport by delivering 360-degree coverage. With a focus on proactive recovery, TheraICE™ encourages everyday athletes to support their muscles and joints before discomfort starts. (Price: $29.99. Available on Amazon)

Titan by Arctic Zone® 30 Can Zipperless HardBody® Cooler: A cooler is a must when road tripping, especially if you’re traveling with kids (lots of snacks = happy travelers). This cooler keeps ice up to three days; has a “flip-open”, patented Zipperless™ lid that provides quick access to food and drinks as well as an insulated front pocket (so grabbing snacks while in the car is a breeze); includes a durable, removable, HardBody® liner with SmartShelf™ which allows you to keep hard items like drinks separate from soft, so sandwiches and other soft foods don’t get crushed. ($69.99. Available at Walmart and Amazon)

EF Adventures Names Backcountry as Preferred Outdoor Gear Partner, Launches Co-Branded Tour Collection for Active Explorers

Partnership to launch co-created adventure tours, expert-curated gear recommendations, exclusive traveler and retail benefits, and a launch sweepstakes

EF Adventures has introduced an Italy Biking: The Dolomites & Italian Alps tour with curated Backcountry gear © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Ready to adventure smarter, travel further, and gear up with confidence?

EF Adventures and Backcountry  have formed a strategic partnership pairing a premium guided tour operator for active travelers with a leading online retailer of topnotch outdoor gear. The collaboration names Backcountry as EF Adventures’ preferred outdoor gear partner, giving travelers access to Gearhead-curated gear lists, exclusive gear and apparel benefits, and Backcountry Summit Club Plus membership, while Backcountry customers gain exclusive deals and upgrades on world-class hiking, biking, and multi-adventure tours through EF Adventures.

At the center of the partnership are plans to curate and launch “The Backcountry Tour Collection, powered by EF Adventures” — a series of exclusive departures created specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. The co-created tours will combine EF Adventures’ signature blend of active exploration and cultural immersion with Backcountry’s expertise in outdoor gear and lifestyle. Select departures will feature appearances from Backcountry athletes and team members.

To help travelers prepare, Backcountry will provide curated gear lists tailored to EF Adventures itineraries, featuring expert recommendations from Backcountry’s Gearhead team and exclusive deals on qualifying purchases. Examples of curated tour-to-gear recommendations, available in both men’s and women’s styles, include: 

Bhutan Hiking: The Trans Bhutan Trail: This 14-day hiking tour explores the heart of the Eastern Himalayas through Bhutan’s legendary Trans Bhutan Trail. Travelers trek through remote mountain landscapes, visit ancient monasteries—including the iconic Tiger’s Nest—and connect with local communities while experiencing the culture and natural beauty of one of the world’s happiest countries. This tour’s “Gearhead Approved” Backcountry products and apparel include:

EF Adventures has introduced an Italy Biking: The Dolomites & Italian Alps tour with curated Backcountry gear © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Italy Biking: The Dolomites & Italian Alps: This 8-day cycling tour tackles some of Italy’s most iconic climbs, including routes featured in the Giro d’Italia. Riders conquer legendary mountain passes such as the Sella Ronda circuit, Passo dello Stelvio, and Passo Gavia, while experiencing alpine culture, historic rifugios, and breathtaking scenery throughout the Dolomites and Italian Alps. This tour’s “Gearhead Approved” Backcountry products and apparel include:

EF Adventures has introduced a New Zealand Multi-Adventure: North & South Islands with curated Backcountry gear © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

EF Adventures travelers also have access to Backcountry Summit Club Plus, the company’s loyalty and membership program, while Backcountry customers will be able to unlock exclusive savings on select EF Adventures tours.

EF Adventures offers 40+ guided itineraries across 25 countries and 5 continents, combining active experiences such as hiking, biking, kayaking, yoga, and ziplining with meaningful cultural immersion and local learning opportunities. Designed for travelers who want to experience destinations beyond the typical tourist path, each tour blends adventure with authentic connections to local communities, traditions, and landscapes. Tours can be reserved with a $150 deposit, with interest-free monthly payment plans on both efadventures.com and backcountry.com.

“At EF Adventures, we design tours for active travelers who truly want to experience and learn about the world, visiting off-the-beaten path destinations with expert local guides,” said Heidi Durflinger, CEO of EF World Journeys USA. “Teaming up with Backcountry means our travelers will have access to the best gear, backed by expert knowledge, before they ever pack their bags. Together, we’re making it easier than ever to show up to your next adventure fully prepared and completely inspired.”

“Backcountry Gearheads live for helping people find exactly what they need to do more of what they love outdoors,” said Kevin Lenau, President of Backcountry. “Partnering with EF Adventures is central to what we’re building with Summit Club Plus: not a loyalty program, but a true outdoor ecosystem where our members get access to the best gear, the best expertise, and now the best adventures in the world.”

Learn more: efadventures.com/backcountry.

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Day Trips, Driveable destinations, Long Island travel, Staycation, Summer Vacations

Long Island Staycation!

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For an extraordinary Long Island staycation experience, take a ride on a historic aircraft at the American Airpower Museum © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Long Islanders don’t have to travel far to enjoy one of the best summer vacation places in the world, with one of the best white-sand beaches in the world (Jones Beach State Park), glamorous (if laid back) Hamptons resorts (Gurney’s Inn); historic and world-class attractions that can stand up to any from Old Bethpage Village Restoration to the Cradle of Aviation Museum. And if you are looking to immerse in America’s 250th anniversary, Long Island played key roles in the War for Independence and after, when George Washington did a tour thanking Long Islanders for their role in securing victory. Here are ideas for a Long Island staycation:

Nassau County Museum of Art is on the 145 acre William Cullen Bryant Preserve with major exhibitions, sculpture park, gardens and nature trails, a perfect staycation destination © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Nassau County Museum of Art (NCMA) is a total destination in its own right: a premier art museum on the historic 145-acre William Cullen Bryant Preserve, featuring major rotating exhibitions, a sculpture park, formal gardens, and nature trails. The Saltzman Fine Art Building, the centerpiece of the museum, is a three-story, Georgian-style 19th century mansion formerly known as the Frick Estate (“Clayton”). Outdoor Sculpture Park is one of the largest publicly accessible sculpture parks on the East Coast with 40 major works by 30 celebrated sculptors. The William Cullen Bryant Preserve includes an arboretum, formal gardens, ponds, and nearly 6 miles of marked walking trails, named for the 19th-century poet and conservationist who originally owned a portion of the estate. The Manes Family Art & Education Center, opened in 2017, offers art classes for adults and children, workshops, and the Millstone Reading Lab. (Nassau County Museum of Art
 One Museum Drive
 Roslyn Harbor, NY 11576(516) 484-9338info@nassaumuseum.org

The 1912 Nunley’s Carousel is adjacent to the Long Island Children’s Museum © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Long Island Children’s Museum offers 14 hands-on, interactive exhibit galleries, a 140-seat theater and four classroom-size learning studios. Indoor and outdoor gallery spaces are interdisciplinary, age-appropriate and intergenerational, fostering independent and cooperative exploration, and encouraging concept development and skills building. Ride the historic 1912 Nunley’s Carousel (originally installed in 1912 on the Brooklyn waterfront in Canarsie’s Golden City Park. (1 Davis Ave., Garden City, NY 11530 on Museum Row, 516-224-5800, www.licm.org)

At Cradle of Aviatiion Museum, appreciate the vital role Long Island played in aviation and space exploration, including seeing the actual Apollo Lunar Module built on Long Island © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Cradle of Aviation Museum is a premier aerospace museum celebrating Long Island’s vital role in aviation and space exploration. Located on the historic grounds of the former Mitchel Air Force Base, you visit eight chronological galleries housing 75 historic air and spacecraft, tracing 100 years of aerospace development, from early hot air balloons to an actual Apollo Lunar Module (built on Long Island). See famous aircraft designed on Long Island (such as the Grumman F-14 Tomcat and the A-10 Thunderbolt II) and even sit in various restored cockpits. The museum features the JetBlue Sky Theater Planetarium (a giant dome theater) and interactive STEM learning labs. Part of Nassau County’s Museum Row (Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City, NY 11530, 516-572-4111, cradleofaviation.org).

At the American Airpower Museum, you not only can see historic aircraft, but even take a ride in one © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

American Airpower Museum, located on the former site of Republic Aviation at Republic Airport in East Farmingdale,  where you can roam around an array of fascinating aviation artifacts and aircraft including a Republic F-84 first generation jet fighter, a rare example of the swept-wing RF-84F reconnaissance variant, and a Republic F-105 Thunderchief. The factory’s last production aircraft was the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II. Most unusual: You can take a flight on the legendary “pilot maker” of WWII the North American AT-6D “Texan”, the American Airpower Museum’s WWII Douglas C-47 “Skytrain” Troop Transport, and the open cockpit WACO UPF-7 WWII Trainer. Most extraordinary: the Museum’s C-47 D-Day Living History Flight experience pairs participants with living history re-enactors who take you back in time to learn about the crucial mission to liberate Europe and end the Nazi regime.  (1230 New Hwy, Farmingdale,631-293-6398, www.americanairpowermuseum.com)

L-R New Double-decker Venetian Carousel and The Ram Pirat Ship all open at Adventureland this season. Photo Credit Adventureland.

Adventureland, Long Island’s longest-running family amusement park dating back to 1962, offers 30 rides including new rides new rides for its 2026 season “The Ram Pirat Ship” and the new Merry Go Round, Double-decker Venetian Carousel. Also, Turbulence, Long Island’s only spinning roller coaster; the Mystery Mansion dark ride; and classics like the Ferris wheel; water attractions; an indoor arcade and restaurant. The 2026 entertainment lineup features drone light shows, a new Saturday Night DJ show “Party on the Midway”, and returning favorites Amazing Louie, Team Fun and Royal Events’ princess and superhero characters. For schedules, visit https://adventureland.us (2245 Broad Hollow Road (RT. 110), Farmingdale, 631-694-6868).

Long Island Aquarium features interactive exhibits and experiences: The Living Coral Reef, one of the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere; Lost City of Atlantis Shark Exhibit, a 120,000-gallon shark habitat (you can even book a Shark Dive and get in the water with them); Interactive Touch Tanks of sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and fee stingrays in Ray Bay; “Butterflies, Bugs & Bees” garden, sea lion shows, penguins, and river otters. Encounter Experiences includepenguin meet-and-greets, snorkel adventures and mermaid swims (431 East Main Street, Riverhead NY 11901, 631.208.9200, www.longislandaquarium.com/)

See marvelous items associated with the 130 inductees to the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, including Billy Joel © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Long Island Music, Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF), founded in 2004, is dedicated to celebrating and preserving Long Island’s musical and entertainment heritage. Its official “Hall of Fame Museum” displays original musical instruments, famous awards, apparel, and other memorabilia from many of the wide variety of Long Island talent represented by the 130 musicians and music industry executives inducted includes Billy Joel, Blue Oyster Cult, KISS, LL Cool J, Debbie Gibson, Louis Armstrong, the Stray Cats, and Run-DMC, and most recently, Music Executive Dennis Arfa, Billy Joel’s longtime booking agent and chairman of the Music Division at Independent Artist Group, (Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, 97 Main St., Stony Brook, NY 11790, 631-689-5888, www.limusichalloffame.org).

Garvies Point Preserve: the museum’s exhibits offer Long Island and New York State geology and Long Island  Native American culture and archaeology. Geology exhibits illustrate Long Island’s glacial history and explain the formation of today’s land features. Dramatic post-glacial changes in climate and sea level are detailed in dioramas to show the evolution of our landscape during the past 20,000 years. Local leaf fossils and concretions (“Indian paint pots”) are also on display. (50 Barry Drive, Glen Cove, NY 11542, https://www.garviespointmuseum.com/preserve.php)

Jones Beach is one of the best white-sand beaches in all the world © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Best beaches: World famous Jones Beach State Park, the 2,400-acre jewel of Long Island, offers 6.5 miles of beautiful white-sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean, offering the miles-long boardwalk, Art-Deco era buildings including the Boardwalk Café and Gatsby on the Ocean Restaurant; miniature golf, shuffleboard, basketball, corn hole, paddle tennis, table tennis and pickleball; Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center, pool swimming, sunbathing, bicycling, surfing, and visiting the playgrounds and splash pad; concerts at Northwell Health Theater and boardwalk bandshell. Other best beaches: Robert Moses State Park, Long Beach and Fire Island.

Long Island’s best traffic free, paved bike path is the 13-mile long Bethpage Bikeway © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Best biking: Long Island’s longest traffic free, paved bike path is the 13-mile Bethpage Bikeway, a scenic trail that goes through 2 state parks, 2 wetland preserves and 2 town parks. The full trail goes from Brady Park at the northernmost top through Bethpage State Park, into Trailview State Park, ending at Woodbury Road. You can connect (after biking along Merrick Road) to the Jones Beach Bikeway from Cedar Creek Park along Wantagh Parkway to Jones Beach, then connect to the 13.7-mile Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway paved multi-use trail running along the barrier island from Jones Beach State Park to Captree State Park.

Enjoy biking from Jones Beach to Captree State Park on the 13.7-mile Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

(Something to look forward to: the Long Island Greenway, ultimately 200 miles of connected bike paths spanning Long Island from Montauk, connecting to the Empire State Trail Network in Manhattan.)

If you are Bethpage State Park on a summer Sunday (June-September), check out the polo matches:

Camping: Wildwood State Park, Hither Hills State Park, Heckscher State Park, Montauk County Park. (Book camping at New York State Parks at through https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/ or by calling 1-800-456-2267; see www.discoverlongisland.com/where-to-stay/campgrounds-rv-parks)

Want to feel like you are in Cape Cod without leaving Long Island? Shelter island nestled between the North and South Forks can only accessed by ferry from either Greenport on the North Fork or North Haven on the South Fork. It’s known for its natural beauty, hiking, biking, birdwatching and breathtaking kayaking. One third of the 27-square mile island is a nature preserve. (try to be there when they have a moonlight hike, but protect yourself from ticks).  Organize your stay: www.discoverlongisland.com/places-to-go/shelter-island.

Explore, Discover Long Island History

Old Bethpage Village Restoration is a living history museum presenting Long Island as it was in the 1860s and 1880s © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Old Bethpage Village Restoration is a 209-acre living history museum in Old Bethpage that recreates a mid-19th-century American rural village. Opened in 1970, it features 50 mid-1800s homes, inn, Methodist church, schoolhouse and general store, historic structures rescued from demolition and relocated across Long Island. Costumed interpreters in 19th century attire demonstrate historical trades like blacksmithing, tailoring, and farming; also check out events and happenings including patriotic observances, vintage base ball tournaments, the sprawling Long Island Fair, and festive holiday traditions. (1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage, NY, oldbethpagevillagerestoration.org)

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site was the home of President Theodore Roosevelt from 1885 to 1919 and the “summer White House” during his presidency © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site was the home of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, from 1885 until his death in 1919 and the “Summer White House” during his presidency (1901–1909). Explore 83 acres of natural surroundings, historic buildings and trails. House Tours, areavailable Friday–Sunday by advance reservation only on Recreation.gov. Visit the Old Orchard Museum (open Thursday (1-4:30 PM), Friday–Sunday (12-4:30 PM). (20 Sagamore Hill Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771, 516 922-4788, www.nps.gov/sahi/index.htm).

Complete your visit at nearby historical and natural attractions, including the Village of Oyster Bay, Young’s Cemetery (Roosevelt gravesite), Planting Fields, the Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center, and other parks and museums.

Gold Coast Mansions, castles, estates and gardens built by New York’s elite high upon the North Shore bluffs during the 1920s “Gold Coast” era, are immortalized in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”. Several, including the castles at Sands Point Preserve, the Vanderbilt Museum and Oheka Castle, are open to the public for tours.

See the major exhibit at Old Wesstbury Gardens this summer: Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with LEGO bricks (photo: Old Westbury Gardens)

Old Westbury Gardens, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a spectacular 200-acre historic estate in Nassau County. Built in 1906, it features Westbury House, theformer country home of Carnegie Steel Company fortune heir John Shaffer Phipps and his family, now open as a museum, filled with fine 18th-century English antiques, decorative arts, and artwork left as they were during the family’s residency; and 70+ acres of formal gardens, tranquil ponds, lakes, and wooded pathways. It offers a wide range of historical, cultural, artistic, educational, horticultural events. Theme events are offered this summer in conjunction with its major exhibit,  Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects® Made with LEGO® bricks, an award-winning, record-breaking exhibition that uses beautiful works of art made from simple toy bricks to explore animal endangerment, the balance of ecosystems, and mankind’srelationship with nature (through September 7). Details, tickets at: www.oldwestburygardens.org/sean-kenneys-nature-connects, www.oldwestburygardens.org.

Sands Point Preserve, on the original Guggenheim Estate is a 216-acre park including four historic mansions – Hempstead House, Falaise (one of the few intact historic houses remaining on Long Island’s North Shore, furnished in antiques), Castle Gould (not open for visits but can be admired) and Mille Fleur, and the Phil Dejana Learning Center. Six marked hiking trails weave through natural and landscaped areas. The woods, mile-long beach and cliffs, lawns, gardens and freshwater pond provide habitats for a variety of plants and animals an a bucolic scene for visitors. (Sands Point Preserve Conservancy, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, New York 11050,  516-571-7901, www.sandspointpreserveconservancy.org).

Also: Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park (440 Montauk Highway); Caumsett Historic State Park (25 Lloyd Harbor Road));  Oheka Castle (mansion tours available, 135 West Gate Drive); Planting Fields (1395 Planting Fields Road); Sagtikos Manor (677 West Montauk Hwy); Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum & Reichert Planetarium  (180 Little Neck Road).

Lighthouses: Long Island’s rich maritime history is manifest in several iconic beacons. Montauk Point Lighthouse 2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk. Authorized by George Washington in 1792, the oldest lighthouse in NYS; climb the 137-step tower and explore the museum). Fire Island Lighthouse: eastern end of Robert Moses State Park (accessible via Parking Field 5). features guided tower tours and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay. Horton Point Lighthouse,3575 Lighthouse Road in Southold,. commissioned by George Washington, features a museum operated by the Southold Historical Museum and tranquil hiking trails down to the Long Island Sound. Long Beach Bar Lighthouse (“Bug Light”): off the coast of Orient Beach State Park, can be viewed by taking a scenic walk along the beach, via kayak, or through seasonal boat tours with the East End Seaport Museum. Orient Point Lighthouse, located in the treacherous waters of Plum Gut and nicknamed “The Coffee Pot” doe its shape, is not accessible by land but can be viewed via the Cross Sound Ferry or from Orient Point State Park.

For a real adventure, a perfect America 250th adventure is to follow the Culper Spy Trail. Largely following Route 25A (Long Island Heritage Trail), President George Washington traveled this route in 1790 by horse-drawn carriage on a mission to thank his Long Island supporters and the ‘Culper Spy Ring’ for their help in winning the American Revolution (hence the many places that boast “George Washington slept here”). Among the Revolutionary War sites: Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay, where Robert Townsend became a part of the spy ring; the Arsenal in Huntington; the Conklin House’ Joseph Lloyd Manor, the Brewster House in Stony Brook where American patriot Caleb Brewster spied on British soldiers; and Sherwood-Jayne Farm, home of Loyalist William Jayne aka “Big Bill the Tory”. See where the Battle of Setauket was fought near the Setauket Presbyterian Church on Caroline Ave.; Strongs Neck Road, where Anna Smith Strong and Abraham Woodhull lived, a key location for the spies; Thompson House where spies’ names are in the doctor’s book. See: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/plan-your-trip/famous-long-island/george-washingtons-spy-trail/; a four-day getaway: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/plan-your-trip/trip-ideas/a-historical-getaway/, and  find more Long Island 250 events: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/longisland250/.

Sagtikos Manor: Built in 1697, and expanded in 1772 and 1902, the estate served as headquarters for the British Army on Long Island for a brief time during the Revolutionary War. President George Washington stayed here during his tour of Long Island in 1790. The manor house is furnished with original family pieces just as it was when the last owner moved out in 1963. On the manor grounds there is a carriage house, walled garden (under restoration) and family cemetery. Donations accepted. Tours May – September (677 West Montauk Hwy)

Special Places to Stay:

Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is a legendary, year-round oceanfront resort in Montauk. famous for its 30,000-square-foot wellness center, private 2,000-foot beach, and the only ocean-fed, saltwater indoor pool in the US (290 Old Montauk Highway, 6631-668-2345, www.gurneysresorts.com/montauk)

The Southampton Inn’s 90 guest rooms are individually designed, melding coastal elegance with traditional Hamptons character. Bright, airy and outfitted with modern amenities, our rooms are relaxing and refreshing, offering an idyllic lodging experience on Long Island’s East End. Walk, jog, or bicycle through the streets of Southampton Village to experience world-class shopping, beaches, and dining (91 Hill Street, Southampton, NY 11968, 631-203-8129, https://southamptoninn.com/).

For more ideas, visit Discover Long Island, 330 Motor Parkway, Suite 203, Hauppauge, NY 11788, 877-386-6654, tourism@discoverlongisland.com, discoverlongisland.com. and I Love NY, https://www.iloveny.com/places-to-go/long-island/.

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

America's 250th, Festivals and Events

Photo Highlights: Blue Angels Headline Four Leaf Air Show at Jones Beach Honoring America’s 250th

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US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

By Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com

The US Navy Blue Angels headlined a very special Four Leaf Air Show at Jones Beach, this year honoring America’s 250th anniversary, so moved from the traditional Memorial Day Weekend to July 5 and 6. Some 268,000 turned out for the event on Monday; unfortunately, Tuesday’s show was cancelled for rain.

The Jones Beach event was special in other ways, as well, featuring more international participants than ever, including the first-ever visit to the United States by the United Arab Emirates aerobatic team, Fursan Al Emarat. The United Kingdom sent its Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, and its British Army Parachute Display Team, the Red Devils, and Canada sent the Canadian Forces Snowbirds (431 Air Demonstration Squadron).

In a stunning and spectacular and surprising move, the Canadian Snowbirds joined the British Red Arrows to pay special honor for America’s 250th.

The event also featured Aaron Deliu, an Australian professional aerobatic pilot who is becoming a U.S. citizen, as well as local favorites, Farmingdale State College Flying Rams, historic “warbirds” from the American Airpower Museum, and the 106th Rescue Wing of the NY Air National Guard.

Here are photo highlights:

US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels thrill an audience of 268,000 at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels show their precision flying and daring-do at Four Leaf Air Show, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, honoring America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

See also:

Photo Highlights: Four Leaf Airshow at Jones Beach State Park Honors America’s 250th

Photo Highlights: Millions Turn Out for Sail4th 250 in New York Harbor, Nation’s Premier International Event Honoring America’s 250th

__________________

© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_placess_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us atfacebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

America's 250th, Festivals and Events

Photo Highlights: Four Leaf Airshow at Jones Beach State Park Honors America’s 250th

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Canadian Snowbirds join the British Red Arrows in a historic display to honor America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

By Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com

Hundreds of thousands turned out for a very special Four Leaf Airshow at Jones Beach, this year honoring America’s 250th anniversary, so moved from the traditional Memorial Day Weekend to July 5 and 6. The headliner, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, also led the flyover at the July 4th Sail4th 250 event, leading some 200 aircraft.

The Jones Beach event was special in other ways, as well, featuring more international participants than ever, including the first-ever visit to the United States by the United Arab Emirates aerobatic team, Fursan Al Emarat. The United Kingdom sent its Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, and its British Army Parachute Display Team, the Red Devils, and Canada sent the Canadian Forces Snowbirds (431 Air Demonstration Squadron).

In a stunning and spectacular and surprising move, the Canadian Snowbirds joined the British Red Arrows to pay special honor for America’s 250th.

The event also featured Aaron Deliu, an Australian professional aerobatic pilot who is becoming a U.S. citizen, as well as local favorites, Farmingdale State College Flying Rams, historic “warbirds” from the American Airpower Museum, and the 106th Rescue Wing of the NY Air National Guard.

The 268,000 spectators who crammed the beach and boardwalk for the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Beach State Park on Sunday, July 5, was the second-highest attended air show in the park’s history. Unfortunately, Monday’s show was rained out.

Here are highlights of what you saw or what you missed:

US Army’s Parachute Team, the Golden Knights, bring in the American flag © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Spectators on the Jones Beach boardwalk wave American flags to take part in an unofficial world’s record for numbers waving flag, as Golden Knights photograph the beach. Some 268,000 attended. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
106th Rescue Wing of the NY Air National Guard © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
United Arab Emirates aerobatic team, Fursan Al Emarat make their debut in the United States © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
United Arab Emirates aerobatic team, Fursan Al Emarat © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
United Arab Emirates aerobatic team, Fursan Al Emarat © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
American Airpower Museum’s Warbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
American Airpower Museum’s Warbirds© Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
American Airpower Museum’s Warbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
American Airpower Museum’s Warbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Canadian Snowbirds join the British Red Arrows in a historic display to honor America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Canadian Forces Snowbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Canadian Forces Snowbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Canadian Forces Snowbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Canadian Forces Snowbirds © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Aaron Deliu,aerobatic pilot , shows off his daring do © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Aaron Deliu,aerobatic pilot , shows off his daring do © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Aaron Deliu,aerobatic pilot , shows off his daring do © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
British Army Parachute Display Team, the Red Devils bring in the flag © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Army Golden Knights bring in the “Betsy Ross” flag to honor America’s 250th © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Army Golden Knights © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Army Golden Knights © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
US Navy Blue Angels © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

See next: Photo Highlights: Blue Angels Headline Four Leaf Air Show at Jones Beach Honoring America’s 250th

See also: Photo Highlights: Millions Turn Out for Sail4th 250 in New York Harbor, Nation’s Premier International Event Honoring America’s 250th

__________________

© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_placess_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

America's 250th, Historic Places, Museums and Exhibits, New York City travel, Places of History

New York Historical’s New Tang Wing for American Democracy Couldn’t Have Come at a Better Time

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To mark the opening of the Tang Wing for American Democracy, The New York Historical has expanded hours until 8 pm on Thursdays through Saturdays from June 18 to July 4. Admission during expanded hours on those dates are pay-as-you-wish admission from 5-8 pm.

Also enjoy “Songs of America,” a vibrant lineup of live music performances taking place at the Museum in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, featuring music from across 250 years of the nation. Performances are free with pay-as-you-wish admission during expanded hours from June 18 to July 4.

And see a rare printed copy of the Declaration of Independence, on view through July 5.

The opening of the Tang Wing coincides with the New York Historical’s exhibition, Democracy Matters, in the new Klingenstein Family Gallery © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

The timing couldn’t be more perfect, nor more necessary: The New York Historical, New York’s first museum, has just opened a major new expansion, the Tang Wing for American Democracy with a mission and a facility dedicated to teaching the history and future of the nation’s founding principles.

Opening in time for America’s 250th anniversary of the signing the foundational Declaration of Independence and audaciously creating the first government “of, by, and for the people” since antiquity, “This transformative new wing embodies The Historical’s mission of illuminating the complexities of the American story and inspiring engagement with the ideas and principles that define it,” said museum president and CEO Dr. Louise Mirrer. “As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Tang Wing will serve as both a beacon for civic learning and a space for reflection on the values that continue to shape our democracy. We are deeply grateful to Agnes Hsu-Tang and Oscar Tang for their extraordinary vision and generosity in making the Tang Wing for American Democracy possible.”

“As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Tang Wing will serve as both a beacon for civic learning and a space for reflection on the values that continue to shape our democracy,” said New York Historical President and CEO Dr. Louise Mirrer © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“The New York Historical’s origin story began with the American Revolution, and after 222 years we have achieved an institutional legacy as a steadfast witness to the history that shaped this nation,” said Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang, who chairs The Historical’s Board of Trustees. “On the occasion of America’s semiquincentennial, this new wing shall rise as a self-evident embodiment of the American evolution—from its beginning as the world’s first modern democracy to the world’s longest continuing democracy.

“When New York Historical was founded in 1804, 222 years ago, Napoleon had crowned himself Emperor of France while Jefferson was reelected by the people of a young republic, the United States of America,” Dr. Tang said.

New York City, she noted, was the first capital of the United States of America, was where modern democracy and the American presidency originated.

“The new wing, dedicated to teaching of American history and democracy, is the culmination of 222 years of engaged citizenship and assiduous examination of American history – the good, bad, ugly and beautiful,” said Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang, who chairs The New York Historical’s Board of Trustees. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“We are here today, because this very institution for 222 years has steadfastly safeguarded the evidence of our history, through wars and peace,” she said. “The new wing, dedicated to teaching of American history and democracy, is the culmination of 222 years of engaged citizenship and assiduous examination of American history – the good, bad, ugly and beautiful. Our history began as a revolution and endures and will endure as evolution of democracy for all.”

Since the museum’s founding as the New-York Historical Society, New York City has become a capital of modernity, culture and arts, Dr. Tang said. “The roots of the New York Historical are in New York City, but it has grown and evolved in mission and understanding of itself to become a national museum of national significance.”

The expanded space – 71,000 sq. ft – adds new galleries, classrooms, collections areas, a rooftop terrace and courtyard, and was designed to maintain and expand upon the Beaux-Arts style of the museum’s landmarked campus. The project also pursued LEED Gold Certification and includes state-of-the-art HVAC equipment anticipated to reduce energy consumption.

“It’s not just a new building but a tactical renovation of the existing building to knit it together with the new wing, aesthetically and functionally,” Dr. Mirrer said. “We are reimagining, reinventing this institution – what it is today and will become.”

The $175 million project represents the museum’s first expansion of its landmark campus in nearly a century and will significantly increase its capacity and ability to have exhibitions that could not be installed before, education, collections preservation and public programming. In addition to the newly constructed wing, the project included renovations to more than 30,000 square feet of existing museum space. The project was supported by $9.25 million from Empire State Development, along with $5 million from the New York State Council on the Arts.

“Democracy Matters” is on view in the Klingenstein Family Gallery in the new Tang Wing for Democracy, a soaring, light-filled space. at the New York Historical © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Dr. Mirrer noted that the institution has sought an education wing going back to1937 “to educate about who we were as a people, so we can see who we should become. We sit in the new Klingenstein Family Gallery – a soaring light-filled space – where historical figures can tell their stories.”

The expansion will also support New York Historical’s education programs, including its award-winning Chang Chavin Academy for American Democracy four-day civics residency program, where 6th graders are brought to the museum to learn about democracy from its origins in antiquity – Greece and Rome – to today. With the additional classrooms – set along a gorgeous balcony – the museum expects to grow the program from 5,000 sixth-grade students served annually to 30,000 students per year. The Historical’s education programs currently reach more than 300,000 students and educators annually and help support the New York City Department of Education’s social studies curriculum.

“Hundreds of thousands of children receive education in civics here at a time when civics is under-taught in schools. New York Historical is picking up the ball, but we needed a facility,” Dr. Tang said.

Also newly opened in the Tang Wing, the Stuart and Jane Weitzman Shoe Museum, exhibits three centuries of American women’s lives through an extraordinary collection of historical footwear (check out Beyonce’s custom stiletto tour booties).

Like most of New York museums, the bulk of their collections are stored off site. The expansion includes crucial new on-site storage for The Historical’s invaluable Patricia D. Klingenstein Library, which holds the Robert A. Caro Archive, Time Inc. Archive, and Billie Jean King Archive as well as millions of manuscripts, maps, photographs, and prints documenting American history

Another significant improvement is that its conservation facilities, where its renowned collection of paintings and historical objects are restored and conserved, are now consolidated in a new state of the art facility in the lowest level.

And because the renovation has been at the highest level museum design standards, the New York Historical can now borrow rare and top quality artifacts from other institutions.

Also, the outdoor greenspace has been “recaptured” and now offers an accessible sculpture courtyard (where you will find the Hamilton and Burr statues, set at the exact distance apart as where they stood for their duel) and a new roof terrace atop the Tang Wing which will be lushly landscaped.

Interestingly, the granite used to build the Tang Wing (which was built over a vacant lot where three brownstones were razed 80 years ago) is the same as in the existing building, even though the quarry had closed in the 1920s. The quarry, on Deer Island, Maine, was reopened just for this project, architect Graham Wyatt, partner, RAMSA (Robert A.M. Stern Architects), tells us.

“Designing the new Tang Wing and related renovations for The New York Historical has been an extraordinary opportunity to engage with one of New York’s most important cultural institutions and historic landmarks,” Wyatt said.

“Designing the new Tang Wing and related renovations for The New York Historical has been an extraordinary opportunity to engage with one of New York’s most important cultural institutions and historic landmarks,” said Graham Wyatt, partner, RAMSA, showing the new rooftop terrace. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“Our design completes a plan first contemplated almost a century ago and enters into dialogue with The New York Historical’s existing building and with the craftsmanship and materials of the original structure, while introducing new interior spaces that meet the Museum’s evolving mission and programs.” It also was the last project designed by Robert Stern before he passed away.

The Tang Wing ultimately will create the first permanent home for the American LGBTQ+ Museum – a collaborative institution that will join The New York Historical’s Center for Women’s History in advancing the narrative of civil rights for all Americans – opening in late 2027.

“New York’s cultural institutions tell our stories, strengthen our communities and power our tourism economy,” Governor Kathy Hochul stated. “For more than two centuries, the New York Historical has preserved the history of our state and nation, and the new Tang Wing will ensure that millions of visitors, students, scholars and families can continue to learn from that history for generations to come. As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, this expansion reaffirms New York’s role as a global capital of culture, education and ideas.”

Democracy Matters

The opening of the Tang Wing coincides with New York Historical’s exhibition, Democracy Matters, in the new Klingenstein Family Gallery. Bringing together objects from The New York Historical’s collections, the exhibition explores how the concept of democracy has stretched, contracted, and shifted through key moments in the history of the nation; how competing understandings of it have come into conflict; and how those conflicts have reshaped its boundaries.

On view in “Democracy Matters,” in the Klingenstein Family Gallery in New York Historical’s new Tang Wing for Democracy: the wooden chair and Bible George Washington used in his inauguration and a glass ballot box © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

In 1789, George Washington was inaugurated the first president in lower Manhattan. He sat in a wooden chair, not the velvet cushioned, gilded throne of a king – indeed, the chair he used and the Bible he swore the newly written oath of office, are both on view in the new Klingenstein Gallery, where “Democracy Matters,” displaying essential artifacts organized around key moments in history and key pillars of our democracy – freedom of press, religion, free and fair elections, is on view through November 1.

The Bible George Washington swore his oath as the nation’s first president in 1789 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Also on view is a fragment from the King George III statue that was pulled down at Bowling Green after the Declaration of Independence was read, and a glass bowl that served as a ballot box (so votes were transparent), a Torah scroll among other religious objects that show Freedom of Religion, all five Thomas Cole’s Empire Series depicting the “Rise and Fall of Civilization.” There is also an odd, 34-star flag, dating back to the “darkest days of the Civil War. Even as the Confederacy adopted their own flag, Lincoln refused to accept the union could be broken,” Dr. Mirrer noted. The exhibits are also arranged to spark thought and interaction.

Thomas Cole’s Empire Series depicting the “Rise and Fall of Civilization.” Is on view at New York Historical’s newly opened Tang Wing for Democracy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

America 250th Anniversary Exhibitions

The New York Historical is continuing to present a slate of special exhibitions throughout the America 250th anniversary year, that have already included Declaring the Revolution: America’s Printed Path to Independence and Stirring the Melting Pot: Photographs from The New York Historical Collections.

Indeed, before there was a United States of America or a New York, there was a New Amsterdam, founded by the Dutch 400 years ago, which set the stage for America’s entrepreneurism, individualism and culture.

New-York Historical’s current blockbuster exhibition, Old Masters, New Amsterdam, celebrates the city’s founding 400 years ago with a fascinating look at life in New Amsterdam from the perspective of 17th century Dutch Masters including Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen.

“The Dutch greatly enjoyed family festivities that included music, dancing, food, and drink,” said Arthur Wheelock, co-curator of the exhibition and senior advisor to the Leiden Collection. “Jan Steen’s joyous Peasants Merrymaking Outside an Inn, wonderfully captures the vibrancy and wide range of human interactions that could be found at a country fair, whether in the Netherlands or in New Amsterdam.”

“Four centuries ago, the Dutch founded an outpost at the tip of Manhattan Island—a humble but vibrant settlement that would give rise to New York,” said Russell Shorto, the exhibition’s co-curator, director of the New Amsterdam Project at The New York Historical. “Across the ocean, meanwhile, Rembrandt and his peers were transforming art, revealing the beauty and drama of everyday life. These Dutch artists never set foot in New Amsterdam, but their portraits, character studies, and depictions of daily life in the Netherlands provide real insight into the world of Manhattan’s 17th-century settlers.”

Gerard Donck and Frans de Hulst portrait of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Bayard (1644) – Samuel Bayard and his wife Anna Stuyvesant Bayard (1644). After Samuel’s death, Anna emigrated to New Amsterdam where her brother Peter Stuyvesant was the colonial Director-General.

Some of the most intriguing objects in the exhibition are those from New York Historical’s own collection: the journal of John Bowne who was arrested for hosting a Quaker meeting and deported to the Netherlands in 1662, where the West India Company directed Stuyvesant to “allow every one to have his own belief.” setting the stage for freedom of religion in New York. Also, a property deed to Manuel de Spangle (dated January 18, 1651), who won his freedom (the first enslaved Africans probably arrived in New Amsterdam in 1627), which encouraged other slaves to sue for their freedom.

The exhibition ends with several paintings providing a glimpse into 1776 and beyond.

Francis Guy’s painting depicting theTontine Coffee House, NYC 1797: After American independence, merchants founded the Tontine Coffee House at the corner of Wall and Pearl Streets, as a place to conduct business. Trading of stocks in the coffee house eventually gave way to the New York Stock Exchange.

From The New York Historical’s collection, Francis Guy’s 1797 painting Tontine Coffee House, New York City, where commercial activity seemingly bursts across the canvas, shows the expansive growth of the city in the century after the Dutch founded New Amsterdam, at the place that became the stock exchange.

The individuality fostered in the Dutch era evolved into a New York hallmark: a brash, confident, entrepreneurial energy. On the eve of the American Revolution, the city’s diversity made it a cauldron of debate and unrest. Built on Dutch foundations and shaped by waves of newcomers, New York reflected the American experiment and propelled it forward.

Also on view:

House Made of Dawn: Art by Native Americans, 1880-Now,presents distinct artistic expressions and practices of modernism by more than 85 artists of diverse Indigenous heritage (through August 2, 2026) © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

House Made of Dawn: Art by Native Americans, 1880-Now,: Drawing from a collection of more than 100 promised gifts of art, artifacts, and rare books created by Native American artists to The New York Historical by Board Chair Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang and her husband Oscar Tang in celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial, this exhibition presents distinct artistic expressions and practices of modernism by more than 85 artists of diverse Indigenous heritage (through August 2, 2026).

An image that gave rise to the legend of Molly Pitcher, most likely a composite of women who took up arms during the Revolutionary War. “Revolutionary Women” dives deep into the stories of the women who left indelible marks on the fight for—and even against—independence and who helped create the foundations of a new government. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Revolutionary Women: The Center for Women’s History foregrounds the women of New York City whose contributions to the Revolutionary War effort have been little recognized—but whose experiences highlight the material realities of living in the war-torn city as well as the divergent, contested meanings of revolutionary liberty itself and its unfinished promise. Revolutionary Women dives deep into the stories of the women who left indelible marks on the fight for—and even against—independence and who helped create the foundations of a new government. Liberty, equality, and independence were key bywords for that emerging nation. But who did these concepts apply to? Revolutionary Women attempts to provide answers and deepen the history we all think we know with letters, poems, petitions, archeological objects, paintings, household objects, and more from our Patricia D. Klingenstein Library collection.

Walk through a replica of President Ronald Reagan’s Oval Office and sit at the Resolute Desk while learning about the presidency, presidents, and the three “co-equal” branches of government © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Also visit the fascinating exhibit dedicated to the Presidency (you can visit a replica of Reagan’s Oval Office and sit behind the Resolute desk) and our three co-equal branches of government.

“Songs of America,” a vibrant lineup of live music performances taking place at the Museum in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, features music from across two and a half centuries of the nation, from Revolutionary-era tunes, to blues, classic jazz, turn-of-the-century jazz, soul jazz and Americana. Performances are free with pay-as-you-wish admission during expanded hours from June 18 to July 4.

A rare printing of the Declaration of Independence, which has been in The Historical’s collections for generations though little was known about it, is on temporary view through July 5. It was likely printed by Samuel Loudon, a colonial New York printer who founded The New-York Packet newspaper. in the aftermath of July 4, 1776, and used to disseminate the new nation’s independence to the general public in town halls, houses of worship, and other meeting places.

A rare printing of the Declaration of Independence is on temporary view at the New York Historical through July 5. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

To mark the opening of the Tang Wing for American Democracy, The New York Historical is hosting expanded hours until 8 pm on Thursdays through Saturdays from June 18 to July 4. Admission during expanded hours on those dates are pay-as-you-wish admission from 5-8 pm.

Founded in 1804, The New York Historical is New York City’s first museum and a nationally renowned research library, with holdings that include more than 14 million works of art, artifacts, documents and ephemera spanning four centuries of American history. Its collections document the founding of the United States, the evolution of New York and the stories of the people and communities that have shaped the nation.

The New York Historical, 170 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, 212-873-3400, www.nyhistory.org.

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_placess_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

adVANturing, Adventure Travel, Camping/Glamping/RVs, Camping/Hiking/Outdoors, Driveable adventures, Family Travel, Outdoors Adventures, Road Trip

Take Your Roadtrip to Next Level: Camp, Glamp, RV, Ad-Vanture!

Ad-vanturing in Oregon in a Moterra campervan gives you the freedom to find your own space © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

The combination of a return to the roadtrip and a desire to experience nature, adventure, and yes, choosing a more economical summer vacation is spurring heightened interest in camping, glamping, RVing and ad-vanturing.

“Outdoor hospitality is central to how travelers prioritize wellness, connection and meaningful experiences,” KOA’s 12th annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report finds. More are choosing camping for emotional and physical wellness, to be in nature, recharge and be restored, and get back to the basics of personal relationships and being in the “now”.

Wild camping in Utah – nothing brings you closer to internal peace and renewal © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

There are several sources to find the best places depending upon what you want to do (Family-friendly? Dark skies? Route 66? National parks?), who is traveling and where you want to go, among them, campspot.com, koa.com, glampinghub.com and thedyrt.com.

Crave an ad-vanture? Companies like Moterra (gomoterra.com), Escape Campervans (escapecampervans.com), Travellers Autobarn (travellers-autobarnrv.com) and Roadsurfer (roadsurfer.com) rent campervans that drive like an SUV but are totally self-sufficient.

Campspot Awards

The 2026 Campspot Awards highlight the best campgrounds across North America, recognized for their amazing locations, outstanding amenities and the experiences they offer.

Their list of Top Campgrounds in the US in 2026:

Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach, Conway, SC: Enjoy a splash of Southern charm at Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach. Located in Conway, just minutes from the excitement of the Grand Strand, this resort offers a refreshing escape among the loblolly pines. Perfect for families who want high-energy fun and travelers looking for a relaxing retreat. Amenities include Waterpark, Pool. Hot Tub / Sauna, Dog Park, Cable TV. Arcade, Mini-Golf, Golf Cart Rental, Restaurant, Playground. Basketball, Jumping Pillow, Shuffleboard, Internet Access, General Store, Pavilion

Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain, GA is Nestled among 3200 acres of natural beauty just outside of Atlanta, and features over 400 RV, Pop-up, and Tent sites as well as Yurt, Safari Tent, and RV Rentals. The park offers recreational activities and family-friendly attractions and events. Amenities include Waterfront, Pool, Bathrooms, Showers, Laundry, Pavilion.

Bike among oak trees draped in Spanish moss on Jekyll Island, Georgia © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Jekyll Island Campground, Jekyll Island, GA:  A magical getaway among oak trees draped in Spanish moss, close to Clam Creek and Driftwood Beach as well as the many other attractions. Amenities include Bike Rental, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Laundry, Pavilion

Ocean Grove RV Resort, St. Augustine, FL, is a destination camping resor just blocks away from St. Augustine Beach and only 5 miles south of the old St. Augustine historic district and St. George Street. Enjoy wonderful restaurants, shops, hiking, and entertainment venues. Amenities include Waterfront, Pool, Fishing, Hot Tub / Sauna, Dog Park, Boat Launch, Cable TV, Restaurant, Playground, Ice Cream, Basketball, Live Music, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Laundry, Pavilion.

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort Breaux Bridge, Henderson, LA is a full-service campground resort located in Baton Rouge with 400 RV sites and 90 cabins to accommodate all types of camping and glamping needs and a wide range of high-end amenities. The resort features 3 pools, hot tub, waterpark, fishing, dog park, Mini-Golf, Golf Cart Rental, Arts & Crafts, Restaurant, Playground, Basketball, GaGa Ball, Live Music, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Special Events.

The Vineyards Campground & Cabins, Grapevine, TX, set along the picturesque shores of Grapevine Lake, is renowned for its serene ambiance, scenic landscapes, lakeside panoramas, and attentive staff. Choose from spacious pull-thru sites or cozy, fully-furnished cabins. Amenities include Canoeing / Kayaking, Beach, Waterfront, Fishing, Bike Rental, Boat Launch, Cable TV, Golf Cart Rental, Playground, Ice Cream, Basketball, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Laundry, Pavilion, Special Events

Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels, TX, offers a resort experience on the Guadalupe River. Amenities include Waterfront, Waterpark, Pool, Fishing, Hot Tub / Sauna, Dog Park, Cable TV, Mini-Golf, Golf Cart Rental, Arts & Crafts, Restaurant, Playground, Ice Cream, Basketball, Jumping Pillow, Sports Field, Volleyball, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Snack Stand, Laundry, Pavilion, Special Events, Zip Line.

Verde Ranch RV Resort, Camp Verde, AZ, is a gateway to Arizona’s most iconic destinations. Nestled in the scenic Verde Valley, the resort is a short drive from the red rocks of Sedona, the historic charm of Jerome, and day trips to Grand Canyon National Park. Amenities include Waterpark, Pool, Hot Tub / Sauna, Dog Park, Bike Rental, Cable TV, Arcade, Golf Cart Rental, Arts & Crafts, Playground, Ice Cream, Shuffleboard, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Laundry, Special Events

Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort & Campground, San Dimas, CA offers a peaceful retreat just 45 minutes east of Los Angeles at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Amenities include a beach-front park, two sparkling pools, outdoor fire pits, and activities including Hiking, Fishing, Playground, Basketball, Volleyball, Bathrooms, Showers, Internet Access, General Store, Laundry

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Tower Park, Lodi, CA:  was named the best campground in California for families by Camp Jellystone. The Northern California campground is a short distance away from Sacramento. Amenities include Canoeing / Kayaking, Beach, Waterfront, Waterpark, Pool, Fishing, Hot Tub / Sauna, Dog Park, Boat Launch, Cable TV.

In addition to Top Campgrounds in the US, other Campspot Awards listings include: Top Campgrounds in Canada, Top Campgrounds for RVs, Top Campgrounds for Tent Camping, Top Campgrounds for Glamping, Top Small Campgrounds, Top Mid-Size Campgrounds, Top Large Campgrounds, Top Unique Campgrounds, Top for Families, Top Campgrounds for Long Term Campings and Top Public Campgrounds.

Find them at https://www.campspot.com/awards/2026

The Dyrt: Best Places to Camp With Kids

Spacious Skies Bear Den, North Carolina (Photo courtesy of The Dyrt)

The Dyrt, an app for finding best-rated campsites, has announced the 2026 Best Places to Camp With Kids Presented by Kelty, an outdoor gear brand known for equipment that makes it easier for families to get outside and explore together.

Best Places to Camp With Kids recognizes the top campgrounds in the country that cater to younger campers with such amenities as playgrounds, fishing ponds, arcades and bounce houses, as well as activities for days and respite for parents to enjoy the great outdoors themselves. The list includes:

Normandy Farms Campground — Massachusetts

Greenbrier Campground — Tennessee

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground — Florida

Spacious Skies Bear Den — North Carolina

Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground — Texas

HTR Niagara Campground — New York

Camp A Way Campground — Nebraska

Ocean Lakes Family Campground — South Carolina

Jellystone Park™ Quarryville — Pennsylvania

Lebanon Hills Regional Park — Minnesota

The Dyrt: Best Places to Camp for Free

A Moterra campervan lets you take advantage of free places to camp in Death Valley © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Dyrt also compiled a list of 2026 Best Places to Camp for Free Presented by Vanlife Trader, a marketplace for buying and selling campervans.

Best Places to Camp for Free recognizes the top campgrounds primarily on public lands managed by the US Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management rated highly by The Dyrt Community where there are no fees to stay overnight.

Dragoon Mountains — Tombstone, Arizona
Felt Picnic Area — Felt, Oklahoma
Mower Basin — Durbin, West Virginia
Meadow Hot Springs — Meadow, Utah
Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs — Dyer, Nevada
Mt. Roosevelt — Deadwood, South Dakota
Minietta Road — Death Valley, California
Osage State Fishing Lake —Scranton, Kansas
Cosmic Campground — Glenwood, New Mexico
Morgan Mountain Road/Spy Rock —St. Paul, Arkansas

Ad-vanturing in Nevada in a Moterra campervan © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The most important part of camping on public lands is to practice Leave No Trace principles and try to leave each place better than you found it. Where fires are allowed, be sure to check local regulations first, as many of these spots are in forested land that may be subject to temporary fire bans.

More details: The Dyrt Announces Best Places to Camp for Free Presented by Vanlife Trade

The Dyrt’s List of Best Places to Camp Near Water Presented by Women Who Explore

The Dyrt, an app to get the best campsites, announced the 2026 Best Places to Camp Near Water Presented by Women Who Explore, a community dedicated to empowering women through outdoor adventure, connection and exploration (www.womenwhoexplore.com).

“Lakes and rivers are a main co-star for a great camping experience,” says The Dyrt CEO Kevin Long. “It’s a perfect setting for that first cup of coffee in the morning and dinner at night. It’s how you cool off when you get back to the campsite after a long hike. It’s where boaters and kayakers and fishermen do their thing and where kids splash and laugh and have the time of their lives. And who doesn’t love falling asleep to the soothing sounds of a flowing river?”

Best Places to Camp Near Water recognizes the top campgrounds in the country rated highly by The Dyrt Community that are located on a lake or pond or alongside a river. The bodies of water on this list all contribute greatly to the appeal and allure of these campgrounds.

The Dyrt’s 2026 Best Places to Camp Near Water Presented by Women Who Explore

Grand Teton National Park has some of the best waterview campgrounds © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
  1. Jenny Lake Campground — Grand Teton National Park — Wyoming
  2. Mistletoe State Park Campground — Georgia
  3. Temperance River State Park Campground — Minnesota
  4. Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park — Montana
  5. Lake Ouachita State Park Campground — Arkansas
  6. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park — South Dakota
  7. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground — Arizona
  8. Prospector Campground — Colorado
  9. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground — California
  10. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground — Pennsylvania

It’s always important to check local rules and regulations about which activities are allowed or permitted at each campground. See photos and read all about the honorees from the Best Places to Camp Near Water Presented by Women Who Explore.

The Dyrt Creates Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip and Camping Guide

Roadtripping on the Pacific Coast Highway © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Dyrt has created a comprehensive Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip guide presented by T-Mobile to highlight the best campgrounds and attractions along the route, 1,650 miles from Port Angeles in the wilds of Olympic National Park in Washington all the way down to the sunny shores of San Diego.

The guide contains a brief history and key facts about the Pacific Coast Highway, the recommended duration of the full trip taking into account time for exploration, and the best campgrounds to stay.

“There are so many iconic road trips and amazing camping properties all over the country, but the sheer beauty of traveling along the PCH and camping under the stars near the Pacific Ocean may be unmatched anywhere in the world,” says Kevin Long, CEO of The Dyrt. “We recommend making this a two- to three-week trip, if possible, between June and September. Experiencing the rainforests, ocean cliffs, redwood groves, beaches and coastal towns in the summer months is as good as it gets.”

The journey also weaves through cultural landmarks, passing quaint fishing villages, artistic beach towns and major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles that add urban dimension to the otherwise remote scenery. Generations of road trippers have made memories along this highway, whether surfing iconic breaks, visiting historic lighthouses or simply pulling off at bluffside viewpoints to gaze at the Pacific.

The breathtaking views along the Pacific Coast Highway. The Dyrt’s guide includes a list of the Top 10 Best Places to Camp Along The Pacific Coast Highway © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The guide provides The Dyrt’s official list of the Top 10 Best Places to Camp Along The Pacific Coast Highway, highlighting such renowned locations as Kalaloch Campground and Cape Disappointment State Park in Washington, River Bend County Park and Nehalem Bay State Park in Oregon, and Kirk Creek Campground and El Capitán State Beach in California. Each campground is located close to the main route to keep road trippers on schedule.

Within the comprehensive PCH road trip guide are smaller segment guides, which break the route into manageable stretches with day-by-day suggestions, campground notes and activity highlights. Planning tips are also included, with information on fuel and services, seasonal considerations, budgeting hacks and, most importantly when you’re on the road, connectivity.

See: Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Perfect for America 250t:: Family Camping in NYS

Camping brings families together around the fire, beneath the stars at Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA, New York, where you can do tent camping, stay in a themed cabin, or pull in your RV © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort is a top-rated family camping, glamping and RV park in New York’s Mohawk Valley. Nestled between the Adirondack Mountains and the Catskill Mountains, the Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort offers one of the most unique camping experiences in the Northeast.

Located along the West Canada Creek and near the Historic Mohawk River and Erie Canal, you can bike the towpath along the canal that united the continent, turned the US into an industrial global power and New York City as the financial capital of the world and take a boat trip through a lock, and go tubing in the creek. But what is truly unique and memorable is the world-famous Herkimer Diamond Mines, where you actually can quarry (and keep) your own “Herkimer Diamonds.”

The Herkimer diamonds you quarry at the Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA are yours to keep! © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

These naturally faceted quartz crystals, known as “Herkimer Diamonds,” are over 500 million years old and prized for their clarity and brilliance (they were used in the famous Timex watches). Start at Miners Village Hall, where you register and pick up your mining equipmen; explore Rockhound Academy, interactive Education Center and Museum, to learn the science and history of gemstone mining;  then head outside to the open rock quarry to mine your own Herkimer Diamonds—everything you find is yours to keep! Shop for souvenirs and jewelry at the Trading Post Gift Shop, enjoy a meal at the Canteen Café, visit the Artisan Center, Sluice, and Fluorescent Room for hands-on fun.

Outdoor hospitality options include:

  • Tent Camping: Cozy up beneath the stars at Creekside or Field Tent Sites. Choose electric hookups or go off-grid and reconnect with nature.
  • Cabins: From rustic Camping Cabins to Deluxe Cabins with full kitchens, bathrooms, and patios, many are wonderfully themed (dinosaurs, another is equipped with its own planetarium). Try the Treehouse Lodge or Solar-Powered Cabins for an eco-friendly glamping experience.
  • RV Camping: Park your RV at one of our Full Hookup, Pull-Thru, or Back-In Sites, many with KOA Patios and Buddy Sites along the creek. Golf Cart Rentals are available for easy access around the resort.
  • Group Camping areas are ideal for hosting a family reunion, scout troop, or club event. You can arrange for use of its event pavilion, and take advantage of Group Mining Packages.

On-site amenities and activities include hosted activities(BINGO, Tie-Dye, Arts & Crafts, and family games and events); outdoor recreation (Gaga Ball, Volleyball, Basketball, Horseshoes, Bean Bag Toss, Giant Chess) and water adventures(diamond-shaped swimming pool, float down West Canada Creek in a tube or kayak).

It is also right on the Erie Canal (you can even take a boat ride through a lock) which is ideal for biking.

It should also be mentioned that Herkimer, NY, is named for an important Revolutionary War hero whose actions indirectly led to the Patriot’s victory at Saratoga and ultimately independence. Visit Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome (https://www.nps.gov/fost/index.htm) to immerse in Revolutionary War history, then the Eric Canal Museum in Syracuse (eriecanalmuseum.org).

Herkimer Diamond KOA, 4626 State Route 28, Herkimer, NY 13350, 315-891-7355,  www.herkimerdiamond.com.

(See: Diamond Mining, Robotics, Erie Canal Cruises Top List of Special Experiences at Herkimer KOA Camping Resort)

Visit https://koa.com/blog/ for ideas, itineraries, planning tips source for Kampgrounds of America sites.

The view just steps from the campground at Watkins Glen State Park, New York © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Meanwhile, New York State offers sensational camping opportunities in its state parks. Our favorites include Letchworth and Watkins Glen.

See:

New York’s Watkins Glen State Park is Spellbinding

Driveable Adventures: Hiking/Camping in the ‘Grand Canyon of the East’ – NY’s Letchworth State Park

To book a spot in New York State Parks campgrounds, go to https://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/.

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us atfacebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Adventure Travel, Driveable adventures, Driveable destinations, Family Travel, Festivals and Events, Historic Places, Road Trip, See America, Summer Vacations, US Destinations

Route 66 Centennial Sparks Renewed Interest in Old-Fashioned Road Trip

Driving into St. Louis, one of the stops on the Route 66 Centennial, brings you to the Gateway Arch and the historic Courthouse where the Dred Scott decision began © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

In these unsettled times and despite high fuel prices (or perhaps because of them), the old-timey family Road Trip is enjoying renewed allure. Like comfort food from your childhood, the road trip evokes nostalgia for an imagined simpler, more innocent time. People like the freedom (from timetables, security lines, not having to agonize over what you can’t fit into your carry-on), the ability to spend as little or as much time, to come upon some serendipitous discovery, to immerse in local happenings and celebrations.

Map of Historic Route 66 (photo: www.route66roadtrip.com)

A key event sparking interest in the road trip this summer is the centennial celebration of Route 66. Spanning 2,448 miles across eight states from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 became synonymous with the ultimate road trip adventure, a symbol of American freedom on four wheels, as an industrializing America was rolling out highways and paving over dirt roads.

This year, the Route 66 Centennial Commission is inviting roadsters to step back in time and experience the retro charm, vintage vibes, small-town hospitality, and trendy twists on classic roadside dining.

Dubbed “the Mother Road” and the “Main Street of America,” states all along the route are featuring exhibits honoring 100 years of the highway that coincides with a focus on history because of America’s 250th.

Use the official Route 66 Centennial (route66centennial.org) portal to plan your stops, or read the AAA Route 66 Road Trip guide for scenic route highlights.

Centennial Web Hubs: Discover more historical milestones and celebrations via the Route 66 Centennial site or check out the broader travel calendar on the Route 66 Centennial (route66-centennial.com).

There are also links to seek out must-see roadside attractions (https://www.route66-centennial.com/mother-road-must-sees-route-66s-iconic-roadside-attractions/) and where to find natural wonders near Route 66 (https://www.route66-centennial.com/natural-wonders-near-route-66/).

Chicago: Be among the first to visit the Obama Presidential Center (photo: Obama Presidential Center)

The legendary route serves up awe-inspiring scenery, cultural landmarks and nostalgic charm along the way. Starting out in Chicago, don’t miss an opportunity to be among the first to visit the Obama Presidential Center; in St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park (and the museums underneath) and the Courthouse where the Dred Scott Decision began; Petrified Forest National Park, in Arizona, ending in Santa Monica at the famous pier.

Here are suggestions for an itinerary built around natural attractions:

Lake Michigan’s shores extend to four states – Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. Chicago’s 42 kilometers of lakefront encompass public parks, gardens, paved trails and beaches. Take the South Shore Line commuter train from Chicago’s Union Station to Indiana Dunes National Park for a serene escape from the big city. 

Meramec Caverns, Stanton, Missouri, an hour’s drive southwest of St. Louis, is an underground wonder, towering stalactites and shimmering mineral deposits, believed to have served as a hideout of famed outlaw Jesse James. Rent kayaks or canoes on the Meramec River. 

Springfield Botanical Gardens  is a free, picturesque sanctuary Springfield, Missouri, at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, Springfield, Missouri.

Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, a short drive from Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers forested hills, rocky outcrops and scenic overlooks of Turkey Mountain.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, set in the Texas Panhandle near Amarillo, is the second-largest canyon in the USA.

Blue Hole, tucked away in the high desert town of Santa Rosa, New Mexico, a two-hour drive from Albuquerque, is where you can jump into the artesian spring from cliffs along its shores and scuba dive, and fish in the crystal clear waters.

Petrified Forest National Park: Route 66 cuts right through this park, renowned for its fossilized wood and the striking backdrop of the Painted Desert, a 90-minute drive from Flagstaff, Arizona.

When cruising Route 66 through Arizona, set aside time to visit the Grand Canyon National Park.

Mojave National Preserve, a lesser-known gem located a four-hour drive from Los Angeles or an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, Nevada. is a desert ecosystem of soaring sand dunes, forests of Joshua trees, ancient volcanic cinder cones and magma flows.

Amboy Crater is a dormant cinder cone volcano in Mojave Trails National Monument, located near Amboy, California, a three-hour drive from Los Angeles. Follow the Amboy Crater Rim Trail to circumnavigate the symmetrical cone, which was formed about 10,000 years ago. Due to minimal light pollution, it’s also a popular stargazing spot.

Santa Monica, California, at the western end of Route 66, on the Pacific Ocean, is famous for its beaches and the Santa Monica Pier, home to a popular amusement park.  

(See: https://route66centennial.org/celebrate/the-great-american-road-trip)

Stay in hotels, motels along the way (hoteltonight.com, booking.com, hotels.com).

See also: route66roadtrip.com.

The Santa Monica Pier, California, is at the end/beginning of Route 66, which is celebrating its centennial this year and rekindling an interest in the old-fashioned road trip  © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Kampgrounds of America’s 6-Part Route 66 Itinerary

Want to take your Route 66 roadtrip adventure to the next-level? Plan to camp along the way. Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has created a 6-part itinerary (https://koa.com/blog/travel-route-66-in-6-parts/):

Section 1: Chicago to St. Louis
Section 2: St. Louis to Tulsa
Section 3: Tulsa to Amarillo
Section 4: Amarillo to Albuquerque
Section 5: Albuquerque to Kingman
Section 6: Kingman to Santa Monica

KOA and AdventureGenie have also teamed up to create ready-to-go itineraries. In each section, there is a link to a corresponding AdventureGenie trip that can be customized using their AI technology to add the activities and stops that fit your personal preferences —all in just a few clicks.

Your Route 66 roadtrip can start or end in Chicago © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

A Roundup of America’s Great Road Trips

Some of America’s best summer getaways are closer than you think, conveniently located just off major highways and within an easy drive of key cities. Pack up the car, bring what and who you want, and hit the road to destinations for outdoor adventure, history, family fun and standout local flavors.

Shenandoah County, Virginia: Great Outdoors Road Trip: Tucked into the Shenandoah Valley, this stretch takes you to small mountain towns like Woodstock, Strasburg and Edinburg in Virginia (reached via Interstate 81) to immerse in the great outdoors:

Ride or hike the towpath of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park, the 184.5-mile historic waterway that connected the nation’s capital to the mountains of Western Maryland. (photo: Allegheny County Mountainside of Maryland)

Allegany County, Maryland: American History Road Trip: This part of Western Maryland (reached via Interstate 68) had a front-row seat to countless important moments in American history. Since the nation’s infancy, Cumberland has served as one of the United States’ most significant transportation hubs for covered wagons, canal boats, trains, automobiles and bicycles. Along the way, this region – affectionately dubbed “The Mountain Side of Maryland” – also played a quiet but important role in the journey to freedom via the Underground Railroad. A sampling of ways in which visitors can experience history in this mountain destination includes:

  • Start your journey at “Mile Marker Zero” of the old National Road. A small monument still exists downtown, situated right outside the historic Western Maryland Railway Station, a reminder that this city was also a significant railroad stop.
  • Sightsee on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad: steam and diesel trains make the 16-mile loop between Cumberland and Frostburg year-round and offer themed seasonal rides such as ice cream trains and sunset on the mountain.
  • Explore the tunnels underneath the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, which was a stop along the Underground Railroad. Tours are available on request and subject to availability.
  • Ride or hike the towpath of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park, the 184.5-mile historic waterway that connected the nation’s capital to the mountains of Western Maryland. Construction began in 1828, and by 1850 the canal reached its western terminus in Cumberland, still an engineering marvel.
  • Staying in a new (but old) hotel. An adaptive reuse project is breathing new life into a long-vacant Victorian-era building in historic downtown Cumberland. The Wills Hotel, set to welcome its first guests in June, is the destination’s first boutique property.

Bowling Green, Kentucky: Family-Friendly Road Trip: Located in South Central Kentucky via Interstate65, Bowling Green is ideal for a family summer vacation, offering classic Americana and plenty of sweet treats. Some of the top family-friendly activities in Bowling Green include:

  • Catch a Bowling Green Hot Rods baseball game at the downtown ballpark, where summer nights come with fireworks and a side of tasty snacks.
  • Cool off at Chaney’s Dairy Barn, known for farm-fresh ice cream, playground fun and the chance to meet adorable cows.
  • Spend the day at Beech Bend Park & Splash Lagoon, a water park with classic amusement rides.
  • Explore Lost River Cave, where guided boat tours take visitors underground through one of Kentucky’s most unique natural attractions. During the summer, the cave’s former nightclub is transformed into an underground movie theater that features kid-friendly movies. (The movies are for members only, but an annual membership costs less than taking your family to a standard theater and it comes with other perks, too.)
Begin your Foodie Roadtrip in Ascension Parish along Interstate 10 in New Orleans © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Ascension Parish, Louisiana: Foodie Road Trip: Located along Interstate 10, the highway that connects New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Ascension Parish lives up to its nickname “Louisiana’s Sweet Spot.” This is a destination where food takes center stage. The menu of ways visitors can taste the incredible flavors of Ascension Parish includes:

  • Sip your way along the Louisiana’s Sweet Spot Cocktail Trail, which runs through July 31 and features locally inspired drinks offered by 20 participating restaurants and distilleries.
  • Taste something sweet at The Cane Sugar Toffee Company, a beloved stop for handmade confections that feature an agricultural staple of the parish … sugarcane!
  • Dig into the parish’s signature dish in Gonzales, the Jambalaya Capital of the World, where jambalaya shows up at festivals, restaurants and dinner tables alike.

Road Trip to Explore America’s Story in Central Pennsylvania

Central Pennsylvania offers a road trip that brings American history to life, ideal for a driveable summer getaway.  Blending immersive museums, iconic landmarks, and family-friendly experiences across three easy-to-navigate days, this itinerary offers storytelling, hands-on activities, and scenic exploration, ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers.

Day 1: Industry, Innovation & the Civil War (Hershey & Harrisburg): 

  • Start at The Hershey Story Museum, an interactive museum exploring the legacy of Milton Hershey, complete with chocolate tastings and hands-on experiences.
  • Head to the Indian Echo Caverns, an underground featuring guided cave tours, gem mining, and family-friendly activities.
  • End the day at the National Civil War Museum, one of the most comprehensive Civil War museums in the U.S., with artifacts tied to figures like Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant.

Where to Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton Harrisburg; Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center 

Day 2: The Turning Point of the Civil War (Gettysburg):Spend the entire day immersed in one of the most pivotal moments in American history.

Where to Stay: 1863 Inn at Gettysburg; Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel & Conference Center; Best Western Gettysburg

Day 3: Railroads & Rural Life (Altoona & Lancaster). Wrap up with a look at the industries and communities that helped shape Pennsylvania.

Where to Stay: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Altoona; Holiday Inn Express & Suites Altoona

Discover “101 Things to Do Just Off the 101” in California’s Conejo Valley

Visit Conejo Valley is inviting travelers to take the scenic route between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara in southern California, conveniently accessible from Highway 101, with the launch of its new “101 Things to Do Just Off the 101” guide, a curated collection of stops and activities.

Long considered a hidden gem, Conejo Valley blends outdoor adventure, dining and cultural attractions. Spend the day discovering oak-studded hiking paths, sipping small-batch craft brews, exploring local art and history museums or unwinding at open-air restaurants and lively community gathering spots.

The “101 Things to Do Just Off the 101” guide highlights attractions across Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills and Newbury Park, featuring everything from horseback riding trails and local coffee shops to golf courses, breweries, performing arts venues and immersive cultural attractions. Among the featured 101 experiences:

See the full “101 Things to Do Just Off the 101” guide at:
https://conejo.com/insider-tips/101-things-to-do-just-off-the-101/ 

To learn more about accommodations, attractions, and things to do in Conejo Valley, visit conejo.com.

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Camping/Glamping/RVs, Camping/Hiking/Outdoors, Ecotourism, Experiential Travel, Outdoors Adventures, Star Gazing

Solar Eclipse. Aurora Borealis. Milky Way. Dark Skies. Where to Go for Astronomical! Experiences

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Mammoth Hot Springs, Cody Yellowstone. Wyoming, prides itself on “noctourism” opportunities (photo: Cody Yellowstone)

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Solar Eclipse August 12, 2026 that will pass over the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Atlantic Ocean, northern Spain and the tip of northeastern Portugal – the first solar eclipse on mainland Europe since 1999 – may well prove more spectacular than the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse which crossed North America, delighting hundreds of millions of people in its direct path. This is because the August 12 eclipse will take place about 2.2 days after perigee (on August 10, 2026), so the Moon’s apparent diameter will be larger.

The magical moment when a diamond ring appears as the moon eclipses the sun. Long Lake, NY, April 8, 2024 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

If you felt left out of the opportunity to experience it (most programs are sold out or wait-listed), National Trust Tours was still taking reservations for a Mediterranean cruise on the elegant small ship La Belle des Océans, guided by astrophysicist Dr. Sarah Rugheimer and Allan I Carswell, Chair at York University

The cruise begins and ends in Nice — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beaches and tree-lined promenade — and features ports of call in Barcelona and the sunny islands of Menorca and Mallorca. Between celestial events, the itinerary includes a full day in Barcelona with an exclusive after-hours visit to one of the world’s oldest active astronomical observatories, a private star party at the Observatorio Astronómico de Mallorca, and leisurely exploration of the sun-drenched islands of Menorca and Mallorca, and begins and ends in the glamorous French Riviera city of Nice. (National Trust Tours, https://nationaltrusttours.com/tour/2026-solar-eclipse-cruise-totality-in-the-mediterranean/)

While most 2026 Solar Eclipse programs are sold out or waitlisted, you may still find some availability at these sites:

National Eclipse has published a compendium of solar eclipse tours, (https://nationaleclipse.com/events/2026-total-solar-eclipse-tours.html)

Another excellent source to find and book tours is tourradar.com, 833-895-6770, https://www.tourradar.com/i/western-europe-solar-eclipse

Road Scholar, a not-for-profit leader in educational travel for older adults, is already looking to 2027, launching two new  eclipse trips in Portugal and Spain and Egypt Eclipse to experience “The Eclipse of the Century,” in August, 2027.

Road Scholar is answering the demand for astronomy tours, including a 15-day “Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle: A Journey Along Coastal Norway” showcasing the Aurora Borealis. (photo: Road Scholar)

Astronomy enthusiasts should also plan visits North to chase the Aurora Borealis. The current solar maximum is in its final phase, offering some of the best auroral displays in a decade. Sightings will become less frequent and intense, and the next major peak in activity is not expected until the mid-2030s. Road Scholars can look for and learn from experts about the Northern Lights in Manitoba, Iceland, and Norway.

RoadScholar’s 15-day “Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle: A Journey Along Coastal Norway,” is a voyage to learn about the Arctic night sky and the Aurora Borealis with an astronomy expert. Explore enchanting towns such as Tromsø, Ålesund and Trondheim (https://www.roadscholar.org/find-an-adventure/23067/Astronomy-Above-the-Arctic-Circle-A-Journey-Along-Coastal-Norway/)

Astrotourism, a Rising Star

“Astrotourism” – the trend of traveling to study astronomy– is on the rise. Road Scholar’s  five astronomy programs for 2026 are filling up fast.

Pennsylvania State University Professor Kevin Luhman says that advances in telescope technology, especially the NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, have brought more attention and interest in learning about space.

“We are fortunate to live during a time in history when our knowledge of the universe is expanding rapidly because of technological advances,” said Luhman, who is an instructor on Road Scholar’s Astronomy programs at Penn State. “Many people find astronomy to be a fascinating subject because it encompasses some of the most fundamental questions that humans have pondered (How was the universe born? Is there life elsewhere in the universe?), combined with phenomena that are visually striking.”

Outside of eclipse sightings and solar maximums, the sky can best be studied in Dark Sky Parks and Dark Sky Reserves and Parks, from the Grand Canyon and Big Bend National Park to New Zealand.

“The majority of people live in areas where light pollution prevents them from ever knowing just how much can be visible,” said Road Scholar Program Operations Manager Carryn Kliesen-Whitehead. “When our participants travel to Dark Sky places like Big Bend, they are suddenly exposed to how vast the universe is and they find it both astonishing and grounding. It seems to awaken something elemental in them and makes them want to get out and explore new areas and even revisit familiar places to see them in a new light (or lack thereof!).”

Moonrise follows the sunset at Zabriskie Point, Death Valley National Park, one of the bedst places to enjoy dark skies © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Many Road Scholar programs feature “Star Parties” with an astronomy expert – Grand Canyon, White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Rancho de la Osa in Tucson, Terlingua (awarded the “Dark Night Skies Award”), Death Valley, Glacier National Park, Big Bend National Park, Penn State, and New Zealand.

Nighttime astronomy experiences are also included on Road Scholar’s Grandparent and Family Programs at White Stallion Ranch and Panama (with family or grandkids).

Road Scholar, 800-454-5768, www.roadscholar.org.

Top Dark Skies Hotspots for Stargazing in the USA

Camping in Arches National Park affords an opportunity to experience Utah’s dark skies © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

While interest in seeing meteor showers and celestial events is skyrocketing, 80 percent of Americans live in places that can no longer see the Milky Way, and almost all of us live under light-polluted skies.

With this in mind, SpinBlitz commissioned a study that analyzed light pollution, elevation, and other key metrics to reveal the darkest night sky hotspots in the U.S. for stargazing enthusiasts.

Canyonlands National Park, Utah, designated as a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association, offers some of the darkest skies in the US, with the possibility of witnessing up to 15,000 stars on a clear night and The Milky Way is visible in detail. The park’s 6,100 ft elevation and average annual temperature of 48.6°F provide crisp, clear viewing conditions. Utah’s commitment to preserving dark skies is unparalleled, with over two dozen International Dark Sky Places, including five national parks and nine state parks, making it a leader in astro-tourism.

Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower: The most unmissable celestial event at Canyonlands National Park is the Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower. Peak viewing is May 4th, when stargazers may see more than 50 shooting stars per hour.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, ranking second, is where you can observe 4,000 stars and see the Milky Way stretching across the sky. The park’s high elevation of 6,700 feet and average annual temperature of 42°F contribute to clear, crisp nights ideal for skywatching. Wyoming’s commitment to preserving its dark skies is evident, with minimal light pollution and unobstructed views, making the stars seem within reach.

Perseid Meteor Shower: On August 12th – 13th, the dazzling annual celestial display characterized by bright and long trails of light is set to light up the night sky.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, certified as an International Dark Sky Park, boasts a high elevation of 6,800 feet and average annual temperature of 45°F, dry air, minimal light interference and expansive vistas – optimal viewing conditions to be immersed in the Milky Way.

Perseid Meteor Shower: Great Sand Dune National Park is another place to view the Perseid Meteor Shower. Ideal viewing at the Medano Pass Road.

Cosmic Campground, New Mexico, has an elevation of 5,700 feet and average annual temperature of 53.4°F, 360-degree unobstructed views of the night sky, with the nearest significant source of artificial light over 40 miles away, ideal for stargazing.

Lyrid Meteor Shower: One of the oldest meteor showers can be seen at the Cosmic Campgrounds. Known for its fireball-like appearance of meteor showers, the ideal viewing times is between 2-5AM. 

Other top places for Dark Skies in the United States include: Crater Lake National Park, Oregon; Big Bend National Park, Texas; Badlands National Park, South Dakota; Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona; Black Mesa State Park, Oklahoma; and Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania.

(The study was commissioned by https://www.spinblitz.com/)

Cody Yellowstone Highlights ‘Noctourism’

Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming, prides itself on “noctourism” opportunities (photo: Cody Yellowstone)

As the least populated state in the Lower 48 and with few large cities generating light pollution, Wyoming has some of the clearest and darkest skies in the country, particularly in the northwestern Wyoming destination of Cody Yellowstone. With just 30,000 residents spread out over some 7,000 square miles, solitude-seeking visitors can find plenty of places for nocturnal adventures.

Top  places in Cody Yellowstone for noctourism (another term for “astrotourism” “Dark Skies” and “star-gazing”) include:

Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway. This 27.5-mile route is part of what travelers and locals alike simply call the “Road to Yellowstone,” a 52-mile route between downtown Cody and the park’s East Gate offering spectacular mountain vistas and fascinating rock formations.

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. This road cuts through the Sunlight Basin between the Northeast Gate and Cody. It is the best spot in the region to see the Aurora Borealis. One of the best stops along the byway is Dead Indian Lookout, offering dark and unobstructed views of the stars as well as the rugged Wyoming landscape. Multiple guest ranches are along the byway.

Bill Cody Ranch. Marking its 100th anniversary this year, Bill Cody Ranch was at one time owned by the grandson of Buffalo Bill. The ranch is located between the town of Cody and the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park. Guests can see rock formations from every angle, providing an otherworldly contrast to starry skies.

Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park: Cross country skiers in winter, hikers in summer head to a remote cabin where the only sound can be the occasional breeze blowing through the trees.

Pahaska Tepee. Check out Buffalo Bill Cody’s original hunting lodge where he entertained his friends, including the Prince of Monaco and President Theodore Roosevelt. While there, stay in A-frame accommodations and make a beeline to Yellowstone National Park through the nearby East Gate.

Cody Trout Ranch Camp – RV & Tipi Park. Located on the banks of the Shoshone River, this campground features tipis and RV sites with hookups for overnight stays.

Pure Heart Retreat – Offering a blend of luxury and tranquility, Pure Heart Retreat offers geodesic domes measuring 23 feet in diameter as well access to a glass yoga dome. The retreat in the tiny town of Wapiti, Wyo. between Cody and the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park is designed to create a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.

UXU Ranch. Beloved for its mountain views and epic trail rides, this one-time sawmill became a dude ranch in 1929.

‘Dark Skies’ KOA Campgrounds

Grand Canyon, hiking the South Kaibab Trail. Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to enjoy star-gazing © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Many Kampgrounds of America locations offer wonderful Dark Skies opportunities. Among them:

Alamosa, Colorado: Alamosa / Great Sand Dunes KOA Journey: Surrounded by wide-open landscapes and far from city lights, this campground offers a truly memorable stargazing experience. Alamosa is a certified dark sky destination, thanks to low light pollution and Colorado’s expansive night skies. Guests can enjoy clear views of the Milky Way, constellations, and the occasional shooting star. A dedicated stargazing deck provides a comfortable place to lie back and take it all in, making it easy for families to slow down and connect after a day of exploring. Guests can also stop by the front office to pick up a constellation map or check for scheduled astronomy programs, adding an educational and interactive element to an already magical evening under the stars.

San Diego, California: Boulevard / Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday: Tucked away from city lights, this remote campground offers incredible stargazing thanks to its naturally dark skies and lack of light pollution. Guests can head to the on-site stargazing plateauto take in clear views of constellations, shooting stars, and even the Milky Way on especially clear nights. The quiet, open setting makes it easy to fully disconnect and soak in the stillness of the night, creating a peaceful and memorable experience for families looking to connect with nature after sunset.

West Glacier, Montana: West Glacier KOA Resort: This campground offers a truly elevated way to experience Montana’s night skies with its brand-new Sky Deck Lodges. Designed to sleep up to eight guests, these spacious accommodations feature private upper-level decks that are perfect for soaking in sweeping views of Glacier National Park by day and stargazing by night. With minimal light pollution in the surrounding area, guests can settle in under the stars from the comfort of their own deck, creating a memorable, front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking skies in the country. Visitors often visit nearby spots like Lake McDonald for unobstructed, panoramic night sky views of the certified International Dark Sky area.

Grand Canyon / Williams KOA Journey (Arizona): Perfectly situated for visiting the Grand Canyon’s Desert View Watchtower, which frequently hosts constellation talks and night-sky photography workshops.

See also: The 11 Best Dark Sky Destinations

Best Spacious Skies Campgrounds for Stargazing

Day turns to night during the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse over Long Lake, in New York’s Adirondack Mountains © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Spacious Skies Balsam Woods, Abbott, Maine. Although its location is woodsy, this campground is situated near an International Dark Sky Park, and there are several places throughout the campground with prime night sky viewing, including occasional views of the ribbons of color of the aurora borealis. The campground’s management team of astronomy buffs often partner with local astronomers to offer star-themed guest programs.

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, North Hudson, N.Y. This Upstate New York campground is situated right on the Schroon River, and campers here can find clear night skies from anywhere along the shoreline.

Spacious Skies Seven Maples, Hancock, N.H. Located on what was once a sprawling family farm, this picturesque campground’s best nighttime viewing is from the campground’s fishing pond.

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, Luray, Va. With easy access to Shenandoah National Park, many guests head to pullouts and parking lots along the park’s famous Skyline Drive for clear nighttime views. There are also several places throughout the campground with unimpeded views, including the yurt area and central sport court area with volleyball courts and a jumping pillow.

Spacious Skies Bear Den, Spruce Pine, N.C. Situated near the Blue Ridge Mountains where light pollution is minimal, this is an especially compelling spot for stargazing. Some of the best places nearby to enjoy the night sky include the campground itself, the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, the Bear Den and Chestoa View Overlooks, the historic Orchard at Altapass, the Linville Gorge Wilderness and Mayland Earth to Sky Park & Bare Dark Sky Observatory.

Spacious Skies Belle Ridge, Monterey, Tenn. Situated on more than 100 acres with open fields, cliffs and ridge views, the campground’s clifftop overlooks provide wide, unobstructed views of the night sky. Nearby options include Bee Rock Overlook, the Highland Rim & Standing Stone State Park and Cummins Falls State Park.

See also: A Beginner’s Guide to Stargazing at Spacious Skies Campgrounds

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Attractions, Festivals and Events, New York City travel, Sports Travel, Tips for Travel

New York City Goes All Out With Ways for Fans to Enjoy FIFA World Cup

“The World Cup is a historic moment for New York City, and our priority is making it easy for New Yorkers and visitors to join in the fun, with or without a match ticket,” said Maya Handa, NYC World Cup Czar. © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Edited by Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

As New York City prepares to welcome the FIFA World Cup 2026™, New York City Tourism + Conventions is making it easy to find activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy across the five boroughs throughout the tournament. With eight World Cup matches including the Final at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), there are scores of fan events and viewing parties, soccer/football activations and popups, and groundbreaking cultural exhibitions.  To plan your experience, visit nyctourism.com/worldcup26.      

“New York City is ready to welcome visitors from around the globe for the World Cup, and our message is simple: come for the matches, stay for the culture,” said Julie Coker, President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions. “Across the five boroughs, free fan events, cultural exhibitions, dining specials, hotel offerings and neighborhood gatherings will turn the tournament into a citywide extravaganza. Whether you’re attending a match or simply want to be part of the celebration, visitors will find endless ways to experience the World Cup across New York City’s vibrant communities.”

“The World Cup is a historic moment for New York City, and our priority is making it easy for New Yorkers and visitors to join in the fun, with or without a match ticket,” said Maya Handa, NYC World Cup Czar. “Official transportation will connect fans to New York New Jersey Stadium, while free fan events, local programming and small business activations will bring the tournament to the five boroughs. We look forward to making this a meaningful moment for residents, fans, neighborhoods and local businesses.” 

Key World Cup Match Dates

·       Group Stage Matches:

o   June 13 at 6pm ET: Brazil vs. Morocco

o   June 16 at 3pm: France vs. Senegal

o   June 22 at 8pm: Norway vs. Senegal

o   June 25 at 4pm: Ecuador vs. Germany

o   June 27 at 5pm: Panama vs. England

·       Round of 32 Match: June 30 at 5pm

·       Round of 16 Match: July 5 at 4pm

·       Final Match: July 19 at 3pm

 World Cup Citywide Programming

NYC Tourism’s digital calendar of World Cup events + offers across the five boroughs is now live, highlighting special events, promotions and offers citywide. The calendar will continue to be updated with the latest events for fans from now through the end of the tournament. NYC Tourism’s World Cup content hub also includes this guide on where to cheer for teams playing in NYC.

The Five Borough Winners Special is New York City’s official citywide dining program for the World Cup offering $26 food and beverage specials and one-of-a-kind collectible borough cups at hundreds of bars and restaurants, from June 11 through July 19.

The World Cup Concierge, a digital map and real-time navigation tool on nyctourism.com/worldcup26 lists local businesses and their World Cup promotions.

The NYC Neighborhood Passport is a citywide program encouraging fans to explore New York City’s immigrant communities, cultural institutions, small businesses and community events throughout the tournament, using a passport to collect artist-designed stamps at participating venues beginning on June 11.

The NYNJ Host Committee’s Welcome World Rewards Program earns points for fans visiting participating small businesses across the City and checking in through a digital wallet. Fans who redeem enough points across the region will be eligible for exclusive merchandise, access to official NYNJ Host Committee fan experiences, and tickets to match experiences, including the World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

NYC Tourism’s refreshed NYC Halal Travel Guide spotlights dining, accommodations and activity recommendations, including World Cup resources, for Muslim New Yorkers and visitors. New York City was the first US destination to launch a dedicated resource for Muslim travelers in 2022, working in partnership with the world-leading, halal-friendly travel authority Halal Trip/Crescent Rating. 

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Official Fan Events & Viewing Locations

USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens is hosting daily programming and match viewings from June 11-27 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Free Official NYNJ Fan Events across the five boroughs:

Queens: NYNJ World Cup 26 Queens Group Stage HQ, USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (June 11–27).  Daily programming and match viewings (easy access on the Long Island Railroad and Flushing 7 train).

Manhattan: NYNJ World Cup 26 & Telemundo Fan Village, Rockefeller Center (July 6–19). Daily programming; extended hours during Finals Week  

Brooklyn, rated the top “buzziest” World Cup fan zone in the United States, will offer daily programming and match viewings June 13–July 19 at Brooklyn Bridge Park © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Brooklyn: Brooklyn Fan Zone, Brooklyn Bridge Park (June 13–July 19). Daily Programming and match viewings.

The Bronx: NYNJ World Cup 26 Bronx Fan Zone, Bronx Terminal Market (June 13–14). Matchday programming and local cultural programming.

Staten Island: NYNJ World Cup 26 Staten Island Fan Zone, Staten Island University Hospital Community Park (June 29–July 2). Daily programming and evening match viewings.  

Rockefeller Center: In addition to the fan village excitement on the plazas below,Top of the Rock has been named theOfficial NYNJ World Cup 26 Viewpoint, offering a singular vantage point above it all, with sweeping 360-degree views that connect fans to NYC. Live match viewings will be screened from June 11 through July 19, along with a NYNJ World Cup 26 photo moment, discounts on FIFA store merchandise and more.

The FIFA Museum presented by Hyundai at Rockefeller Center will host “Legacies of Champions” showcasing nearly a century of FIFA World Cup™ history through a free immersive exhibition with free timed-entry tickets. Visitors with Top of the Rock tickets can add priority museum entry from June 11-19.

The Intrepid Museum is hosting public watch parties for more than 50 FIF World Cup matches on Pier 86, June 11 through July 19, with multiple large screens set up against the backdrop of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Intrepid Museum is turning Pier 86 into one of New York City’s premier outdoor World Cup destinations. From June 11 through July 19, the museum will host public watch parties for more than 50 FIFA World Cup matches on the pier, with multiple large screens set up against the backdrop of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. It’s a rare chance to watch the world’s biggest sporting event in one of the city’s most dramatic outdoor settings on the same pier as a historic aircraft carrier. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Hudson Yards, The Shops at Columbus Circle and Bronx Terminal Market: Related Companies has been named an Official Host City Supporter, with fan activations planned at Hudson Yards, The Shops at Columbus Circle and Bronx Terminal Market, including live match viewings, events and official merchandise.

Sports & World Cup Inspired Cultural Offerings

The American Museum of Natural History launched World Cup, World Cultures: Celebrating the Community of Science and Sports and is hosting FIFA World Cup 2026™ watch parties © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

American Museum of Natural History opened World Cup, World Cultures: Celebrating the Community of Science and Sport with programming and experiences  including FIFA World Cup 2026™ watch parties; a community celebration on June 13 to mark the first match played in the NY/NJ region; For the Win: Objects of Sports Excellence, an exhibition of championship rings, trophies, medals, and jewelry from legendary athletes and teams; Goal Zone,an all-ages interactive soccer play space; a Global Sports Pavilion featuring large-scale photography and video celebrating iconic moments in sports from around the world, alongside trivia and hands-on educational activities exploring the science and culture of sport; and a neighborhood block party on July 11 culminating with a Manhattanhenge sunset.

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) on the Upper West Side has various family-friendly experiences for children 0-6, connecting the excitement of World Cup to art, culture and play. Events throughout June and July include artmaking, cultural dance, educational sessions and more, and CMOM’s Huddle Hub will provide a space to read books about countries participating in the World Cup and learn about professional players.

In celebration of the World Cup coming to New York City, the Guggenheim will showcase Zidane, a 21st century portrait, June 11-July 19 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

In celebration of the World Cup coming to New York City, the Guggenheim will present Zidane, a 21st century portrait, June 11-July 19. The exhibition marks the 20th anniversary of the film portrait capturing French soccer star Zinédine Zidane in real time during a 2005 match.

The Whitney Museum of American Art will celebrate the World Cup throughout the tournament with its Free Friday Nights and Free Second Sundays, as well as a 20% admission discount to visitors wearing their national team’s jersey or carrying home team memorabilia. Offerings include DJ sets inspired by global music traditions, art-making activities, tours and refreshments, all culminating in a special West Side Fest celebration (July 10–12) ahead of the Final match weekend. These activities coincide with the Whitney Biennial 2026, featuring artists from tournament host cities and countries around the world, shown alongside iconic American works by Hopper, Warhol and Basquiat.

Summer for the City at Lincoln Centeris hosting World at Play for World Cup fans © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Summer for the City at Lincoln Center will host World at Play, celebrating the global spirit of soccer with World Club DJ nights, curated by the legendary DJ Bill Coleman featuring DJs from around the world, freestyle pop-up soccer performers, family-friendly workshops, locally based food trucks on-site including drinks and international cuisine. On select evenings, Film at Lincoln Center will present free open-air showings of soccer-related cinema classics.

The New York Botanical Garden will host its World Cup Garden June 13 through July 19, celebrating global culture through diverse plants, interactive displays and family-friendly programming, including World Cup Garden Kick Off Day on June 13 with crafts, lawn games and more.

The 9/11 Museum is hosting The World’s Game: Soccer and 9/11 exhibition through August honoring how the global soccer community rallied together during the 2002 FIFA World Cup where the US made a quarterfinal run, including fundraising matches and more.

The Paley Center will hostThe Global Game:Soccer in the United States and the FIFA World Cup™ June 11 through July 26, exploring the rise of soccer in the US alongside the global impact the World Cup including early involvement in FIFA to hosting the landmark 1994 tournament, and the growth of Major League Soccer. Presented in collaboration with FIFA, MLS, the US Soccer Federation, FOX Sports, and Telemundo/Peacock, the exhibit includes artifacts including game-worn jerseys from American soccer stars. cleats, signed memorabilia, archival footage, and iconic match moments. The Paley Center will also host watch parties throughout the tournament.

El Museo del Barrio will host a free World Cup Final watch party on July 19 in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere, with hands-on art activities for all ages including a live DJ set with a dynamic mix of deep house, techno and Latin rhythms. The event takes place during exhibition Sophie Rivera: Double Exposures—the museum’s first survey dedicated to the groundbreaking photographer.

The German Football Association will open the German House of Soccer for the first time during the World Cup, at Chelsea Industrial from June 11 through July 11, bringing German football culture to NYC, welcoming fans for select match screenings, panel discussions, events and more.

In an effort to promote hope and unity in an increasingly polarized world and encourage cross-cultural connection through a shared love of football during the World Cup, The Cathedral of Saint John the Divine in Morningside Heights presents Peace Post, a mixed-media portrait collection featuring 198 global peace advocates—one from each sovereign nation—shining a light on individuals working toward positive change.

World Cup Food & Beverage Offerings

The Five Borough Winners Special is New York City’s official citywide dining program for the World Cup offering $26 food and beverage specials and one-of-a-kind collectible borough cups at hundreds of bars and restaurants, from June 11 through July 19.

Visitors can experience the World Cup alongside local fan communities at restaurants, bars, bakeries, and cafés across the five boroughs, including Senegalese spots Des Ambassades and Le Baobab in Harlem, Moroccan restaurants Merguez and Frites and Dar Lbahja in Astoria, Mexican favorite Tacos El Bronco in Sunset Park, and English pubs like Carragher’s in Lower Manhattan. See this local fan guide for more inspiration.

Bars and restaurants in Brooklyn and all five boroughs will be screening matches live throughout the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Bars and restaurants across the five boroughs will be screening matches live throughout the tournament. Visit Clinton Hall in the Bronx, FancyFree in Brooklyn, The Football Factory at Legends in Manhattan, Rivercrest in Queens and Ralph’s Sports Bar in Staten Island, and see this soccer bar roundup for more inspiration.

Platform by JBF x NYC Tourism will host a ticketed World Cup Dinner Series celebrating global matchups through one-night-only chef collaborations at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform in Pier 57. Dinner themes include:

Brazil vs. Morocco (June 9): Chefs Victor Vasconcellos of Berimbau Brazilian Table and Aneesa Waheed of Tara Kitchen will present a family-style menu blending Brazilian and Moroccan flavors.

England vs. Australia (July 8): Chef Ed Szymanski of Lord’s, Dame, and Crevette and chef Sam Lawrence of Bridges will collaborate on a menu inspired by modern English and Australian cooking.

Colombia vs. Argentina (July 15): Chefs Felipe Donnelly of Colonia Verde and Fernando Navas of Balvanera will present a multi-course South American dinner inspired by the classic fútbol rivalry.

Mexico vs. Korea (July 16): Chef Giovanni Cervantes of Carnitas Ramirez and chef Aaron Chang of Nōksu will collaborate on a seasonal menu combining coastal Mexican flavors and modern Korean technique.

World Cup Retail & Attraction Offerings

Macy’s and the Empire State Building Observation Deck are among the retailers featuring World Cup merch © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Macy’s Herald Square flagship store will host their World Soccer HQ, an immersive shopping experience with products from brands including adidas, Nike, Puma, and Lids, featuring jerseys, mini balls, accessories, and team gear. Fans can also take part in photo moments and interactive experiences including an adidas FIFA World Cup™ Collection event at the adidas Shop on the 35th Street Mezzanine with treats, gifts with purchase, and a meet-and-greet with New York Red Bulls player Cade Cowell.

Nordstrom and adidas will bring adidas @ The Corner to the Nordstrom NYC Flagship from June 4 through July 26, featuring an exclusive line of adidas World Cup merchandise organized by country, weekly activations, gifts with purchase, sweepstakes, archive pieces, and weekend customization experiences.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt will open daily at 8 a.m. to better accommodate visitors during the World Cup, with extended evening access through midnight and last ticketed entry at 10 p.m.

Scenes NY in Greenpoint offers vintage soccer apparel, original teamwear and soccer-inspired streetwear rooted in NYC’s grassroots game and global soccer culture.

From June 9 through July 19, the Empire State Building Observation Deck will host the biggest, most iconic soccer jersey collection from Classic Football Shirts in a four-floor display that features the best in soccer shirt design with more than 100 match-worn and rare jerseys from Messi, Ronaldo, Beckham, and other legendary players. A custom Empire State Building soccer jersey—inspired by the Observation Deck’s famed host uniforms—will be sold exclusively on the 86th Floor Observation Deck, June 9-23.

In celebration of the World Cup, Century 21 is offering $21 discounts on retail purchases of $100 or more through July 19.

Getting Around NYC

Visitors and New Yorkers can use public transportation to reach fan events and experiences across the region, including the MTA, NJ TRANSIT, PATH, Amtrak, NY Waterway, NYC Ferry, and Staten Island Ferry.

NYC Ferry Updates

New York City is expanding its ferry service for the summer © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

NYC Ferry’s 2026 summer schedule runs through September 13. The expanded schedule includes more weekend trips, larger vessels on high-demand routes, expanded beach service, direct Governors Island shuttle service from Pier 11, and extended weekend service on the South Brooklyn route.

Five World Cup custom-wrapped NYC Ferry vessels will run through the end of summer, celebrating the diversity and identity of all five boroughs.

Rockaway Rocket service will return in early July from Long Island City and Greenpoint. Both cost $12 per person.

For more information, view the Mayor’s announcement.

Bike / Pedestrian Access Updates

Biking over the Brooklyn Bridge. The city is improving access in time for World Cup 2026 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

A redesigned Manhattan entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge will expand the bike and pedestrian connection from six to 10 feet. NYC DOT will also double the width of the southern crosswalk between the bridge and City Hall Park to create more pedestrian space. For more information, view the Mayor’s announcement.

Sixth Avenue (Manhattan)’s protected bike lane will be widened from six to 10 feet between 14th and West 31st Streets, with added pedestrian space between West 31st and West 35th Streets. For more information, view the Mayor’s announcement.

Transportation to NYNJ Stadium from NYC

Fans must use official options, including NYNJ stadium shuttle buses, NJ TRANSIT, limited rideshare or pre-purchased parking at American Dream (stadium parking is restricted to FIFA-permitted vehicles only).

The Official New York New Jersey Stadium Shuttle will offer direct, round-trip bus service from Port Authority Bus Terminal, Midtown East, and Midtown North. Round-trip shuttle fares have been reduced to $20.

NJ TRANSIT rail tickets are available to FIFA match ticket holders through the NJ TRANSIT mobile app for a flat round-trip fare of $98. Tickets are limited to 40,000 per match day and must be purchased in advance. Fans traveling by rail from New York City will board at Penn Station New York, transfer at Secaucus Junction, and continue to the stadium.

Visit the New York New Jersey Host Committee’s website for official transportation details: https://nynjfwc26.com/getting-to-nynj-stadium/

World Cup Hotel Offerings & Experiences

Consider staying in a hotel near Penn Station for easy access to transportation to Met Stadium © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Consider staying near Penn Station or Port Authority for easy access to the stadium. Nearby hotels include Aliz Hotel Times Square; Arlo Midtown;The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue; Moxy Times Square; Martinique New York on Broadway; New Yorker by Lotte Hotels; Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel; voco Times Square South.

Gansevoort Meatpacking is providing a special offer, The Football Suite, for guests traveling June 1 through July 31. Enjoy loft-inspired accommodations with football celebration props and relax between matches at the hotel’s iconic rooftop pool, with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.

Loews Regency New York Hotel is offering a “Tailgate Rate Package” to sports fans from June 11 through July 5, whether they have tickets to a match or are just in town to cheer on their favorite team. The package includes two drink vouchers per room per stay and room upgrade based on availability.

Virgin Hotels New York is hosting The Kickaround which will transform Everdene terrace into a high-energy, football-inspired social hub where guests can play foosball (“table football”), enjoy live match screenings, DJs on select dates and themed cocktails. In addition, the hotel will offer two packages for guests from June 13 through July 19 including the “Suite Spot for the Match” package with complimentary cocktails, late checkout and $50 Uber credit, as well as the “Penthouse Kick Off package”, with spa treatments, access to hotel happenings on match days, merch and more.

The courtyard at Lotte New York Palace will transform into an open-air viewing destination at Summer Bar with matches featured on a large-format screen, paired with refreshing draft cocktails, chilled Champagne, and picnic fare.

MAD Bar & Lounge at NH Collection New York Madison Avenuewill show games throughout the tournament from June 11 through July 19, including a limited-time cocktail menu inspired by participating countries to complement the viewing experience. For those staying overnight, select suite categories offer direct views of the Empire State Building, where special lighting displays will coincide with match days.

The “Ultimate Fan Package” at Romer Hell’s Kitchen includes limited-edition Hell’s Kitchen Football Club soccer scarves (also available for purchase to the public), RHK baseball hats, and credit to the Neighborhood Cafe and So & So’s. During the tournament, the hotel’s Study will stream the matches for casual viewing, plus a discount on beer and wine from the Neighborhood Cafe while the games are on. 

Bar Sprezzatura, theopen-air rooftop at Kimpton Theta New York – Times Square, will broadcast all matches with a limited-time “Beers Around the World” drink menu, while hotel guests can enjoy the Global Soccer Tournament package offering necessities for fans including Vacation sunscreen, a stadium-approved clear belt bag, and a bucket of beers from the Beers Around the World menu at Bar Sprezzatura.

Hyatt Regency Times Square will transform its Porte Cochere and hotel into a pop-up pitch with turf and a professional-grade netting for guests to engage in ‘Penalty Kicks in the Porter Cohere’. Stop by to juggle, shoot and maybe just meet a pro-player or two, during finals weekend. At Cue 48 restaurant, visitors can also enjoy themed menus on match days, inspired by the competing nations.

Park Central Hotel invites guests to enjoy matches screened on five large displays in the Twenty-Sevens lounge, alongside bespoke food and beverage specials offered during the tournament.

For all there is to see and do in New York City during the tournament, visit nyctourism.com/worldcup26.

New York City Tourism + Conventions is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) and convention and visitors bureau (CVB) for the five boroughs of New York City. For all there is to do and see in New York City, visit nyctourism.com.

Long Island World Cup Watch Events

Rock band Third Eye Blind will perform live at 8 pm at the free New York State United 2026 World Cup Watch Experience on Long Island on June 12 at Stony Brook University. The free watch experience starts at 1 pm; kickoff of Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina is at 3 pm; USA vs. Paraguay at 9 pm. Tickets are free at https://www.newyorkstateunited.com/.

Nassau County and The Island FC are hosting a free, public viewing ticketed event for the USA vs Australia match on June 19, 3-6 pm at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre in Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Obtain free tickets at TheIslandFC.com or at NassauCountyTourism.ticketspice.com.

More details: Going Places: Tickets Available for Free World Cup 2026 Watch Events on Long Island

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Arts & Entertainment, Attractions, Cultural travel, Museums and Exhibits, New York City travel

Up for a Staycation? No Reason to Venture Far When the World’s Cultural Riches, America’s 250th Events are in New York City

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You don’t have to travel to Amsterdam to see Dutch Masters. At New York Historical’s “Old Masters, New Amsterdam,” Jan Steen’s “Peasants Merrymaking Outside an Inn” gives a perspective to what life in New Amsterdam was like 400 years ago © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

No need to travel to the Vatican Museums in Rome to see Raphael, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam to see the Dutch Masters, or the Musée National d’Art Moderne in Paris to see Paul Klee, because you can see these artists’ works right here in New York City this summer. Good news for the many who are opting for a staycation this year because we have an abundance of cultural riches, world-class attractions and institutions on our doorstep. And some of the best events and exhibits marking America’s 250th are here too. Here’s what’s on view this season in New York City:

Cultural Exhibitions, Festivals and Performances

Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs at the American Museum of Natural History Manhattan: Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs takes visitors back 66 million years to the Cretaceous Period, exploring life before and after the asteroid strike that caused mass extinction. Featuring life-size models, fossils, touchable exhibits and immersive media, the exhibition reveals how dinosaurs, marine reptiles and other species vanished, as well as how the event set the stage for the rise of mammals and, eventually, humans.

Unrolling Eternity: The Brooklyn Books of the Dead at The Brooklyn Museum | Prospect Heights, Brooklyn: For the first time, visitors can see one of the only complete and gilded Books of the Dead, carefully restored over three years by the Brooklyn Museum’s conservation team. The 21-foot papyrus, displayed with early Books of the Dead and related artifacts, reveals ancient Egyptian burial practices, artistic mastery, and the story of its original owner, Ankhmerwer.

The Museum of the City of New York, Manhattan has two major exhibits underway:

Marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Museum of the City of New York is featuring “The Occupied City: New York and the American Revolution”© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Occupied City: New York and the American Revolution (through 2026): Marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, this major exhibition—developed in partnership with the Gotham Center for New York City History—transforms the Museum’s entire third floor into a 7,000-square-foot immersive journey through Revolutionary-era New York. Framing the Revolution as a story of civic choice and consequence, the exhibition underscores how decisions made by New Yorkers 250 years ago continue to reverberate across the city and the nation today. Trace New York’s pivotal role in the conflict, from the first sparks of rebellion in 1763 to its emergence as the new nation’s first capital in 1790. A crucial strategic site for both the Patriots and the British, New York’s revolutionary experience comes vividly to life through historical objects, multimedia installations, and interactive environments. The Occupied City tells the powerful and complex stories of revolutionaries and loyalists, enslaved and free Black New Yorkers, women, Native peoples, and others who shaped and were shaped by this turbulent time. The exhibition highlights the resilience of New Yorkers, who endured seven years of British occupation, devastating fires, and violent battles, only to emerge as residents of the nation’s new capital. Dee the Revolution not as a distant myth, but as a lived—and deeply contested—urban experience (https://www.mcny.org/exhibition/occupied-city).

He Built This City: Joe Macken’s Model(through August 2026):This exhibition celebrates the extraordinary handmade vision of Queens-born artist Joe Macken through a monumental 50-by-27-foot model of New York City crafted over 21 years. Presented for the first time in New York, the installation offers a richly detailed, artistic interpretation of the city’s skyline, neighborhoods and built environment (https://www.mcny.org/exhibition/he-built-city)

Frida and Diego: The Last Dream at The Museum of Modern Art, Midtown Manhattan (through Sept. 12, 2026):MoMA will present a focused exhibition of key works by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera from its collection in a gallery design inspired by the Metropolitan Opera’s new production of El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego. Featuring paintings, drawings and iconic portraits, the show explores their artistic partnership and lasting influence as a dialogue between visual art and performance.

See Raphael: Sublime Poetry at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (through June 28, 2026) © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Raphael: Sublime Poetry at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Fifth Avenue, Manhattan (through June 28, 2026) is the first comprehensive U.S. exhibition of the Italian Renaissance master, showcasing over 200 paintings, drawings and tapestries that highlight his unmatched creativity and poetic sensibility. Spanning his career from Urbino to Florence and Rome, the show reveals his innovations in portraiture, religious imagery and the portrayal of women, offering a singular look at works rarely seen together.

The Jewish Museum is presenting two major exhibitions this summer:

“Portrait of Solomon Isaacs,” by John Wesley Jarvis, c. 1813, among the portraiture, artifacts, and documents on view at The Jewish Museum’s “Circa 1776: Jews in Colonial America” exhibit (The Jewish Museum)

Circa 1776: Jews in Colonial America, presented in conjunction with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, explores themes of Jewish life throughout colonial and post-colonial America. This installation, located in a focus gallery on the Museum’s third floor, highlights a selection of works in the Museum’s collection and is displayed as a complement to Identity, Culture, and Community: Stories from the Collection of the Jewish Museum. (Through Aug. 9, 2026)

Paul Klee: Other Possible Worlds marks the first American museum show to focus on the artist’s powerful late work, produced during his last, unsettling decade of life until his death in 1940. The exhibition features some 100 paintings and drawings, among them select works from Klee’s earlier practice, including his rarely exhibited and iconic Angelus Novus (1920), called the “Angel of History” by German philosopher Walter Benjamin.

Big things are happening at the New York Historical this summer:

A Rembrandt self-portrait is on view at the New York Historical as part of its “Old Masters, New Amsterdam” exhibit © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Old Masters, New Amsterdam: Four hundred years ago, the Dutch founded New Amsterdam on Manhattan Island, a moment brought vividly to life in this unique exhibition. Featuring works by Rembrandt, Frans Hals and Jan Steen, many never before seen in New York, the show uses Old Master paintings to immerse viewers in the world of the city’s earliest settlers (though Aug. 30).

Opening in the Joyce B. Cowin Women’s History Gallery on Friday, May 29 and running through October25, 2026, New York Historical’s new exhibition Revolutionary Women dives deep into the stories of the women who left indelible marks on the fight for—and even against—independence and who helped create the foundations of a new government. Liberty, equality, and independence were key bywords for that emerging nation. But who did these concepts apply to? Revolutionary Women attempts to provide answers and deepen the history we all think we know with letters, poems, petitions, archeological objects, paintings, household objects, and more from our Patricia D. Klingenstein Library collection. 

Its Tang Wing for American Democracy at The New York Historical opens June 18, a 71,000-square-foot expansion of its exhibitions and education and public programs. Dedicated to the nation’s founding principles, the new wing will increase student participation, add major galleries and research facilities and serve as the future home of the American LGBTQ+ Museum.

About Us: The American Imaginary at Queens Museum, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, (through December 6, 2026):This exhibition explores three perspectives on what it means to be “American” through photographs curated by three Terra Foundation fellows from the local community. Spanning the mid-19th century to 1979, it presents intimate and poetic interpretations of family, migration, fame and identity to highlight how American art reflects both personal experience and shifting cultural contexts.

See the Carol Bove exhibit at the Guggenheim New York © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Carol Bove at Guggenheim New York (through August 2, 2026):This exhibition is the first major museum survey of American artist Carol Bove, spanning 25 years of work from early drawings to her colossal “collage sculptures” in scrap metal and steel tubing. Through her innovative use of material, scale, color and space enhanced by design interventions in the museum’s Frank Lloyd Wright-designed rotunda, Bove creates immersive experiences that engage both cultural histories and the viewer’s imagination.

Whitney Biennial 2026 at The Whitney Museum of American Art, Meatpacking District, Manhattan:The 82nd edition of the Whitney Biennial brings together work by 56 artists, duos and collectives exploring contemporary life through themes of relationality, from family and technology to ecology and geopolitics. Shaped by a moment of profound transition, the exhibition emphasizes mood and atmosphere, offering immersive environments that reflect the complexity and contradictions of the present.

A “Cats” display at The Broadway Museum © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Museum of Broadway: Walk through Broadway’s history, starting in 1732 with the first documented performance in NYC, and go backstage with your favorite Broadway stars to learn how a show is made. As you walk the timeline, you’ll come upon exhibits dedicated to groundbreaking moments in Broadway’s history – those that pushed creative boundaries, challenged social norms, and paved the way for those who would follow. The Museum of Broadway was designed by internationally renowned artists, designers, and theatre historians. The special exhibit on view “So in Love…on Broadway,”   (145 W. 45 St., https://www.themuseumofbroadway.com/)

The National Museum of the American Indian, housed in the Alexander Hamilton US Custom House, has some 700 important artifacts on view © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The National Museum of the American Indian, located in the historic Alexander Hamilton US Custom House at One Bowling Green in lower Manhattan, is a Smithsonian Institution museum affiliated with the Washington DC museum. The ongoing exhibition, Infinity of Nations: Art and History in the Collections of the National Museum of the American Indian consists of 700 works of Native art from throughout North, Central, and South America demonstrating the breadth of the museum’s renowned collection and highlighting the historic importance of these iconic objects (free admission).

See the world’s first space shuttle, a nuclear weapons-carrying submarine, dozens of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, and the world’s fastest commercial airliner at the Intrepid Air & Space Museum © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Intrepid Air & Space Museum: Experience the world’s first space shuttle, a nuclear weapons-carrying submarine, dozens of military aircraft, a supersonic spy plane, and the world’s fastest commercial airliner displayed in, around and aboard the legendary aircraft carrier, Intrepid, anchored on the Hudson River, along the Hudson River Greenway (https://intrepidmuseum.org/).

The original stuffed animals that inspired A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh stories—including Winnie-the-Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet, Kanga, and Tigger—are on permanent view in The New York Public Library’s Treasures collection © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

One of my favorite places for summer respite in the city is the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street in the historic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (the main branch of the NYPL). It is a renowned Beaux-Arts landmark guarded by the famous marble lions, Patience and Fortitude, housing world-class research collections and the magnificent Rose Main Reading Room and always has fascinating exhibitions, including its ongoing Treasures. If you are lucky, you can hook up to a docent tour. Free one-hour guided building tours are offered Monday-Saturday (reserve Schwarzman Building Tours online) (free admission, nypl.org).

New Museums Opening

National Urban League’s Urban Civil Rights Museum,Harlem, Manhattan, is opening in June:The museum, which will be housed in National Urban League’s new Harlem headquarters, the Urban League Empowerment Center, will be the first in the northern U.S. dedicated to the American Civil Rights Movement.

The Ellis Island Museum is reopening after a $100 million revitalization © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Ellis Island Museum is reopening mid-2026 after undergoing a $100 million revitalization that includes reimagined exhibitions, new theaters and major technological upgrades. Construction is underway on the Family History Center, which will be renamed the Records Discovery Center and feature a mini-theater, interactive discovery stations, temporary displays and 50% more public research stations. The project will also expand the Records Discovery Center, increasing the searchable records in its database from 65 million to 154 million.

The People’s Theatre: Centro Cultural Inmigrante,  Inwood, Manhattan, opening later this year, will spotlight NYC’s immigrant communities through theater, music, dance and community events. A partnership with NYPL for the Performing Arts will provide programming throughout the season connected to its productions.

The Hip Hop Museum, South Bronx, is opening this year:Located just south of Yankee Stadium, this space will pay homage to the South Bronx’s rich culture and history as the birthplace of hip-hop.

Staycation on Governor’s Island

For an extraordinary staycation, take the 15-minute ferry ride to Governor’s Island. Just 800 yards off the southern tip of Manhattan, the 172-acre island is a world away. (Insider’s tip: Governor’s Island affords front-row views of America’s 250th, July 3-8,as tall ships and vessels sail through New York Harbor.

A staycation on Governor’s Island feels like you are far away, yet just off the tip of Manhattan © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

You can rent bikes, pedal coaches, visit the 200-year old Castle Williams, a 22-acre National Monument managed by the National Park Service and learn its history (it helped save New York from British Invasion during the War of 1812 and was used as a prison during the Civil War and Fort Jay. The island had been a military base – my father was based there during World War II, and now is a Coast Guard headquarters).  Biking around the island, you have the best view of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. A key area is The Hills, rising 70 feet above sea-level, offering breathtaking – and never-before-seen – views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.

Collective Retreats offers glamping on Governors Island © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Collective Retreats, based in Colorado, operates a luxury glamping retreat with tents and tiny-home-style accommodations, enhanced with morning yoga; spa offerings at QC NY (located adjacent to Retreat); live music every evening; cocktail hour on the sunset terrace; chef-driven farm-to-table dining; and Historic Governor’s island adventuring by bike. (https://www.collectiveretreats.com/governors-island/

QC New York, the Italian spa on Governors Island, is presenting new sunset DJ series, Friday and Saturday nights through September 5; pop-up poolside beauty bar, June 17-July 15 (complimentary self-care treats such as soothing eye patches, tan-boost gummy bears, and vitamin-rich orange juice. Its on-site Casa QC Bistrolaunches full-service dining, daily 6–9 pm, sunset aperitivo offering a complimentary tray of seasonal Italian snacks with the purchase of two drinks (qcny.com).

Governors Island is open to the public daily year-round (pay attention to the ferry schedule). From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, the Island is open from 7am-10pm Sunday through Thursday and 7am-11pm Friday and Saturday, with the South Island Park (including Picnic Point, the Hills, Hammock Grove, and the Play Lawns) closing at 6pm. All other times, the Island is open daily from 7am-6pm.

From Manhattan, ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island run daily from the Battery Maritime Building, located at 10 South Street in Lower Manhattan. Click here for schedules and tickets. Evening ferries are available for Governors Island tenants and guests, which includes visitors to QC NY, Island Oyster, Taco Vista, and Gitano. Tickets to evening ferries can only be purchased in person at the Battery Maritime Building (https://www.govisland.com/plan-your-visit/ferry).

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

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