America's 250th, Attractions, Cultural travel, Historic Places, Monuments, Museums and Exhibits, National Parks, New York City travel, New York State travel, Places of History, See America

New York State Celebrates America’s 250th

January 29, 2026 krubin723

Painting on display at Fort Stanwix visitor center showing the October 17, 1777 surrender of General Burgoyn’s army to the Patriots after the Battles of Saratoga removed the threat of British invasion in northern New York © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Most Americans might not think of New York State first in context of the American Revolution and independence – Boston, Philadelphia are more top of mind. But it will surprise virtually everyone to know that more battles – and pivotal ones – of the Revolution were fought in New York than any other. In fact one-third of the battles and incursions were fought in New York, which the British considered vital to their conquest of the continent. Here are some of the places and events commemorating America’s 250th in New York State:

Fort Ticonderoga

At the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, Ethan Allen and Benedict Arnold realized that the British Fort Ticonderoga made an easy target for the American rebels. They captured the fort in 1775 with a band of Green Mountain Boys only weeks after Lexington and Concord, making it America`s first victory in the Revolution. Visitors can tour the restored fort, research library, museum galleries, and acres of beautiful land overlooking Lake Champlain and see artillery demonstrations and frequent reenactments. Fort Ticonderoga Real Time Revolution™ Event Series (Adirondacks): The iconic historic site continues honoring its role in America’s origin story with the Real Time Revolution™ event series, designed to bring the Revolutionary War to life on the very grounds it took place through reenactments of key events. One of the highlights takes place during Independence Day Weekend, with a signature reenactment, “Return of an Army,” depicting the Northern Continental Army’s retreat to Ticonderoga during the same period that the Declaration of Independence was being signed in Philadelphia (102 Fort Ti Road, Ticonderoga, NY 12883, 518-585-2821).

Saratoga National Historical Park (Saratoga Battlefield)

Two hotly contested Revolutionary War battles here ended in an American victory which some proclaim as one of the most important in world history. Visit the Saratoga National Historical Park (Saratoga Battlefield) visitor center with film, light map, museum exhibits; tour the scenic 10-mile auto and bike road and hike historic paths. The park also has four other sites located nine miles north of the battlefield around the villages of Victory and Schuylerville: Victory Woods where British General Burgoyne’s forces made their last stand, the 155′ Saratoga Monument with panoramic views of the Hudson Valley, General Philip Schuyler’s 1777 home and estate, and the Saratoga Surrender Site (648 Rte 32, Stillwater, NY 12170, 518-664-9821, x 2980, www.nps.gov/sara to plan your visit).

Fort Stanwix National Monument

Fort Stanwix National Monument offers a full-scale reconstruction of the original fort built in 1758 by the British during the French and Indian War (re-created from the original British plans) and occupied by Americans during the Revolutionary War, where you can engage with costumed interpreters and really appreciate the complex dynamics surrounding the War for Independence.

In August 1777, Fort Stanwix, under the command of Col. Peter Gansevoort, successfully repelled a prolonged siege by British, German, Loyalist, Canadian and American Indian troops and warriors commanded by British Gen. Barry St. Leger – becoming the only American post never to surrender to the enemy throughout the entire War of Independence. Significantly, the failed siege, combined with the battles at Oriskany, Bennington, and Saratoga thwarted a coordinated effort by the British in 1777, under the leadership of Gen. John Burgoyne, to take the northern colonies. The Americans’ success (after so many defeats) led to American alliances with France and the Netherlands. Troops from Fort Stanwix also participated in the 1779 Clinton-Sullivan Campaign and protected America’s northwest frontier from British campaigns until finally being abandoned in 1781.

At the Marinus Willett Center, explore centuries of history through interpretive exhibits and cases of artifacts unearthed on the site that put into context the colonials and the indigenous people who lived here (that will surprise you), and why New York State was so crucial to the Revolution – not just logistically, but as a critical source of food supplies for the troops. The park also collaboratively manages both the Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site and the Steuben Memorial State Historic Site, all three locations inexorably connected from the time of the American Revolution. (100 N James St, Rome, NY 13440, (315) 338-7730, https://www.nps.gov/fost/learn/historyculture/index.htm)

New York City Hosts ‘Sail 4^th’ Spectacular

New York City which celebrated its 400th anniversary throughout 2025, is where America’s entire history is on display – the indigenous people who lived here before the Europeans, the Dutch founding in 1625 with the establishment of Fort Amsterdam and how diverse cultures built the city and continue to be the hallmark – at the Museum of the City of New York (a superb film unrolls 400 years in 30 minutes) (1220 5th Ave, www.mcny.org). One of the more unexpected places to explore America’s Native American history is at National Museum of the American Indian, a Smithsonian Institution, housed at Alexander Hamilton’s Custom House on Bowling Green (right around where King George III’s statue would have been ripped down by patriots) (https://americanindian.si.edu/visit/ny).

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels will be featured in the International Aerial Review as part of NYC’s spectacular July4th celebration, before headlining the Jones Beach Air Show July 5-6 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York City will have its share of blockbuster events celebrating America’s 250^th. One of the most sensational is “Sail 4^th 250”, taking place July 3-9, 2026, with 30 Tall ships and 30 Grey Hull ships from 32 nations bringing 10,000 officers, cadets, crew and diplomats to parade down the East River on July 3rd up the Hudson River on July 4. Open to free public visits through July 9 (www.sail4th.org).

Macy’s 50^th anniversary fireworks on July 4^th will be especially spectacular with an International Aerial Review, headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

The Blue Angels will then headline the FourLeaf Air Show at Jones Bach State Park (date change from Memorial Day Weekend to July 5 – 6) to celebrate America’s 250th.

The New York Historical is opening its new Tang Wing for American Democracy on June 18, 2026, greatly expanding both the landmark building and The Historical’s wide-ranging schedule of exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public programs. Dedicated to the history and future of the nation’s founding principles, the 71,000-square-foot Tang Wing will open as the United States launches the celebration of its 250th anniversary. On view now: Declaring the Revolution: America’s Printed Path to Independence which features the documents that provided the ideological and philosophical underpinnings for the Revolution and the founding of a new kind of government (by the people) and that raised the rabble, forged a collective consciousness and identity, and inculcated the outrageous idea that a ragtag collection of colonial people of diverse race, ethnicity, religion and national origin could and should take on the most powerful empire on the globe (on view through April 12); also, Stirring the Melting Pot: Photographs from The New York Historical Collections. The New York Historical will present a slate of special exhibitions throughout the anniversary year. New York’s first museum, The New York Historical is a leading cultural institution covering over 400 years of American history. (New York Historical, 170 Central Park West, New York NY 10024, 212-873-3400, nyhistory.org)

NYC Revolutionary Trail: Echoes of Revolution will launch in June 2026 to celebrate America’s upcoming 250^th anniversary. Founded by The Gotham Center for NYC History at The Graduate Center, City University of New York, the multimedia 90-minute, 3-mile walking tour in downtown Manhattan reframes New York at the heart of the American Revolution. Partnering with Video Game Publisher Ubisoft and Creative Technology Studio Sugar Creative, the Gotham Center, Echoes of Revolution is a FREE, mobile, geo-located immersive walking tour that uses augmented reality to place visitors inside Revolutionary-era New York. Starting at the Battery and ending at Federal Hall via Bowling Green, Wall Street, and other pivotal sites, visitors will relive pivotal historical moments from the founding of the United States, uncover the stories that shaped the nation’s beginnings in the actual locations where they took place, and have a close-up experience of the “city at the heart of the Revolution,” with each stop providing audio narration with site information, character profiles, videos and links to Center’s Library. Echoes of Revolution is a new version of Gotham’s original NYC Revolutionary Trail App and will also partner with the Museum of the City of New York for the upcoming exhibit, “The Occupied City,” to ring in New York’s 250^th celebration (https://nycrevolutionarytrail.org)

Follow Washington’s Culper Spy Ring Trail on Long Island:

A Christmas gathering in colonial-era Schenck House at Old Bethpage Village. Though Long Island was occupied by the British during the American Revolution, there were patriots who helped George Washington, even serving as spies © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Culper Spy Ring was an intelligence network that George Washington himself credited as crucial to the American victory over the British Empire. 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”).

Indeed, Long Island in 1778 was largely occupied by the British (as was New York City) but there were Patriots who risked their lives to get intelligence to General George Washington. You can visit the houses where secret messages were written in invisible ink and follow the Washington spy trail map. (The AMC series TURN: Washington’s Spies, now airing on PBS was based on actual events involving the Culper Spy Ring on Long Island, focusing on farmer Abe Woodhull and his childhood friends gathering vital intelligence for the Continental Army.)

Roslyn, Long Island, on the Culper Spy Trail, where a colonial-era Grist Mill is being restored, is one of the places boasting “George Washington slept here.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

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. On the South Shore, Sagtikos Manor in Bay Shore is where President George Washington stayed here during his Long Island tour in 1790. See: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/plan-your-trip/famous-long-island/george-washingtons-spy-trail/; find more Long Island 250 events: https://www.discoverlongisland.com/longisland250/.

Westchester’s American Revolutionary Trail

Once the volatile “Neutral Ground” between British and Patriot forces, Westchester County was where generals strategized, spies swapped secrets and ordinary people found themselves at the crossroads of independence. Follow the American Revolutionary Trail to discover Westchester’s most compelling historic sites, among them:

Jacob Purdy House (White Plains): Washington’s wartime headquarters during key moments of the Revolution.

John Jay Homestead (Katonah): Home of a Founding Father, tracing early American politics, antislavery roots and family life.

*Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow, one of Historic Hudson Valley properties, is decked out for Halloween © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Philipsburg Manor (Sleepy Hollow): A powerful look at slavery in the Colonial North, complete with hands-on demonstrations, one of the Historic Hudson Valley properties.

St. Paul’s Church (Mt. Vernon): A 1704 parish turned field hospital after the Battle of Pell’s Point.

Square House Museum (Rye): A historic tavern where John Adams, Samuel Adams and George Washington once stayed.

Thomas Paine Cottage (New Rochelle): Last home of the legendary pamphleteer, filled with rare artifacts.

*Van Cortlandt Manor, a patriot family’s post war home, is the setting for historic Hudson Valley’s annual “Blaze” Halloween event © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Van Cortlandt Manor (Croton-on-Hudson): A patriot family’s post-war home revealing the challenges of building a new nation.

Visit https://www.visitwestchesterny.com/things-to-do/history/american-revolutionary-trail/

Some of New York’s other America 250events:

Genesee Country Village & Museum (Finger Lakes) explores early American life through costumed interpretation, working trades and educational programs that illuminate the nation’s evolving identity. The museum, now in its 50^th year, spotlights its “Seeking Freedom” initiative, highlighting stories of enslavement, freedom-seekers and abolitionists while hosting special cross-century exhibits and events tied to the national 250-year commemoration.

Commander in Cheers Augmented Reality Experience (Hudson Valley):Running through 2026, restaurants, pubs and other locations in the region offer an augmented reality experience that brings a pint-sized George Washington to life, sharing stories of Dutchess County’s Revolutionary past, by scanning a specialty coaster. Participating locations include Mill House Brewing Company in Poughkeepsie, The Tavern at Beekman Arms in Rhinebeck, Tenmile Distillery in Wassaic and Treasury Cider at Fishkill Farms. More information will be announced soon on additional programs as part of Dutchess County’s Commander in Cheers celebration.

Orangetown and the Bicentennial 1776-1976: From Democracy to Disco (Hudson Valley): On view through 2026 at the Orangetown Historical Museum’s DePew House, this exhibition highlights Rockland County’s crucial contributions during the Revolutionary War and showcases the historical and cultural impact of the 1976 Bicentennial. This spring, the Spirits of ’76 Wine Tasting companion event will feature historically inspired wines curated by Grape d’Vine, honoring Orangeburg and Tappan’s Revolutionary War legacy.

RevCon 2026 (Hudson Valley): Dutchess County hosts RevCon on June 13 at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park. The Revolutionary War reenactment and history fair brings the era to life with weapons demonstrations, military drills, camp displays and Q&A sessions with reenactors.

(See a full calendar of New York State’s America 250 events: https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/path-through-history/america-250/)

Revolutions Beyond Independence

America’s Revolution did not end with the War for Independence. New York State has made it a mission for its America 250 commemoration to review America’s many revolutions in striving to realize the “more perfect union” the Founders could barely imagine.

“One of directives in New York State’s America 250^th is to make it broad and diverse and think of the American Revolution as incomplete because it didn’t include all residents,” said Devin Lander, NYS State Historian.

Many of these revolutions were sparked or furthered in New York State, and as you travel across the state, you can see them unfold: women’s suffrage, abolition, civil rights, voting rights, environmental protection.

To see how America came to be, join Parks & Trails NY’s annual eight-day Cycle the Erie trip that takes place each July, and travel 400 miles and 400 years of history from Buffalo to Albany- 356-miles of them along the Erie Canalway. (In addition to Parks & Trails NY, bike tour operators offer guided and self-guided trips.)

*Camping out on the grounds of Fort Stanwix during the Parks & Trails NY Cycle the Erie eight-day, 400-mile tour through 400 years of American history © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You see how the Industrial Revolution unfolded, how the Canal was the ‘Mother of Cities” like Rochester and Syracuse, and birthed canal towns, united the American continent, and turned New York City into a financial capital of the world; at the Canal Museum in Syracuse, you see how immigrants used the canal to settle the West, turn the Midwest into America’s breadbasket, and unite the nation, and how the canal spurred the innovation and entrepreneurism that made the Industrial Revolution possible; how Native Americans and colonists lived side by side at Fort Stanwix and the Indian trading post at Schoharie established 400 years ago and how knowing the Oneida women influenced Melinda Gage’s zeal for women’s equal rights. You see the context for the Women’s Rights movement at Seneca Falls. (https://www.ptny.org/cycle-the-erie-canal-bike-tour/).

*Biking to the Canal Museum in Syracuse, one of New York State’s cities birthed by the Erie Canal, on the Parks and Trails NY Cycle the Erie tour © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The 356-mile Erie Canalway is part of New York State’s 750-mile Empire State Trail network, from Buffalo to Albany and the tip of Manhattan at Battery Park to the Canadian border. It will ultimately be expanded and connected to a Long Island Greenway Trail Expansion – 200 miles of new greenspace from Montauk to Manhattan. With construction expected to begin this winter, the Long Island Greenway will connect 27 communities and 26 existing park – a route that is also rich in America’s history, from indigenous times (so many of the towns still have their names), through the American Revolution (George Washington’s Spy Trail), to the Shinnecock Indian Nation, in Southhampton.

New York State will be paying homage to its many revolutions in which the state played such a pivotal part, including linking “Freedom” to the theme of “Independence.”

Cayuga County, in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes, is Harriet Tubman’s chosen home. Auburn is where Tubman lived for more than 50 years, continued her activism, and established the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged. Today, visitors can explore this powerful legacy through nationally significant historic sites, museums, and landscapes that speak to freedom, abolition, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. This makes Cayuga County a particularly meaningful place to reflect on America’s 250th anniversary.

Cayuga County will be hosting several commemorative events and experiences in recognition of America 250, with more details continuing to take shape. Among those that have been scheduled:

The Harriet Tubman National Historical Park is planning programming under the banner “Freedom 2026,” which will serve as a lead-in to “Freedom 2027,” marking the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in New York State.
Cayuga County is also looking to the anticipated opening of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad New York Scenic Byway and its first leg, which will connect Buffalo with Tubman’s chosen hometown of Auburn.
In 2026, the Finger Lakes Sweet Treat Trail will feature an America 250 theme, with several sweetly patriotic offerings highlighted along the itinerary.
Each year, the Town of Ledyard hosts a well-attended reenactment and ceremony that includes replica parchment printings of the Declaration of Independence, a full-costume public reading, and a horseback rider arrival with classic “Hear ye, hear ye” flair.
July 4th fireworks on Little Sodus Bay in Fair Haven and at Emerson Park in Auburn are always community highlights, and is expected that 2026 to be especially memorable in honor of the 250th anniversary.

In the next few weeks, a full America 250 schedule from several of Cayuga’s historic and cultural partners, including the Seward House Museum, Schweinfurth Art Center, Cayuga Museum of History and Art, Auburn Public Theater, Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, Willard Memorial Chapel, Frontenac Museum, and the Equal Rights Heritage Center, will be available. See more at www.tourcayuga.com.

Urban Civil Rights Museum (New York City):Located within the National Urban League’s new Harlem headquarters, the Urban League Empowerment Center, the museum will be the first institution solely dedicated to the American Civil Rights Movement, when it opens later in the year. (https://urbancivilrightsmuseum.org/)

Underground Railroad & Abolitionist Movement: Saratoga in 2027 will mark the 200^th anniversary of abolition of slavery in New York State; there will be exhibits at the State Museum in Albany, and state parks.

Women’s Rights National Historical Park, Seneca Falls: New York’s America 250 commemoration includes acknowledging the ongoing revolutions, such as for women’s right. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Women’s Suffrage: visit Seneca Falls, dubbed the “Birthplace of Women’s Rights” where you can visit the National Women’s Hall of Fame in addition to the Women’s Rights National Historical Park, Elizabeth Cady Stanton Home, plus :”It’s a Wonderful Life” Museum.

A former knitting mill in Seneca Falls now houses the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Women were not included among those winning “inalienable rights”in the American Revolution © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York’s role in the Environmental Movement is on display at Tanglewood Nature Center Canopy Treetop Walkway opening in the Finger Lakes in late spring/early summer. This ADA-accessible forest canopy path climbs 70 feet high, offering sweeping views. Designed in collaboration with world-renowned scientist “Canopy Meg” Lowman, this treetop walkway is only the second of its kind in New York State (the first is the Wild Walk at The Wild Center). Also, travel to the Adirondacks State Preserve (at 5 million acres, the largest tract of publicly protected land in the Lower 48) and enjoy the newly opened Adirondack Rail Trail (34 miles from Lake Placid to Tupper Lake).

“As we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup, there’s no better time to explore New York State – where every corner tells a story. From the historic grounds of Fort Ticonderoga and the National Baseball Hall of Fame, to the Statue of Liberty and the thundering power of Niagara Falls, visitors will discover experiences as iconic and unforgettable as the milestones we’re honoring throughout 2026,” I LOVE NY Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levisaid.

See a full calendar of New York State’s America 250 events: https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/path-through-history/america-250/)

See also: 11 Ways to Experience America 250 in New York State, https://www.iloveny.com/blog/post/ways-to-experience-america-250-in-new-york-state/

An excellent source of all things historic in New York State is the Passport to History site, which can steer you to 700 destinations across the state. You can choose from themes to create your own Path Through History: https://www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/path-through-history/

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Festivals and Events, New York City travel, New York State travel, Sports Travel

New York State: Where the World is Coming to Play in 2026

January 20, 2026 krubin723

At Mt Van Hoevenberg, Lake Placid, you can watch world-class bobsledders training and in competition. Lake Placid is the next best thing to being at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, with special events and viewing opportunities throughout February. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York State is poised to welcome the world in 2026 for a year that celebrates America’s 250th birthday and the FIFA World Cup with new attractions, hotel openings and can’t-miss events throughout the year.

*The thrill of watching FIFA World Cup, held in Qatar in 2022, is coming to North America, with matches being held at MetLife Stadium, June 13-July 19 © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

New York (with New Jersey) will welcome the world to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford for eight FIFA World Cup matches beginning June 13, culminating with the World Cup Final on July 19 (https://tickets-center.com/fifa-world-cup-metlife-stadium):

June 13, Brazil vs Morocco

June 16 France vs. Senegal

June 22 Norway vs Senegal

June 25 Ecuador vs Germany

June 27 Panama vs England

June 30 Match 77

Jul 5 W76 vs W78 (Match 91)

Jul 19 W101 vs W102 (Match 104) – final

NYC Tourism is mounting a 20-market campaign, “Where the World Comes to Play,” featuring the Statue of Liberty to help visitors plan their visit with hotels, Broadway theater, arts and cultural events, and will make it easy for travelers to find out what to do outside the matches and make the most of their visit. These include websites that direct fans to FIFA Fan Festivals at Liberty State Park and other places (NYCtourism.com/FIFA), even listing the Best Bars to watch soccer matches.

“Fans can watch Columbia play while at a Columbian restaurant; Sri Lanka while at Sri Lankan restaurant, etc. – just about any team’s nationality has a restaurant,” said Allisa Schmid, NYC Tourism’s VP of Communications. “Many will make NYC their home base. And while many cities are hosting games, no place has as much as NYC to offer.”

*The Statue of Liberty in New York harbor will welcome the world to the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and final being held at MetLife Stadium, June 13-July 19 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

For example: visit the Hip Hop Museum in The Bronx (www.thhm.org); see film history at the Museum of Moving Image in Astoria, Queens (Thomas A. Edison’s former studio, www.movingimage.org); visit the reimagined Ellis Island Museum (reopening in 2026), and of course, the Statue of Liberty (www.statueofliberty.org). Among the fun ways to tour is the $4 ride on the New York City ferry to all five boroughs; or take a Citibike and cycle up the Hudson River Greenway, stopping in at all the museums (like the Intrepid Air & Space Museum, www.intrepidmuseum.org), attractions (don’t miss Little Island), eateries, and even a sand beach, along the way.

An AI chatbot will answer questions and provide assistance in 60 languages.

New York State is very much a four-season destination for sport and outdoor activities and especially shines in winter:

Lake Placid Celebrates Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games with Month-Long Olympic Festivities

2026 is an Olympic year and while the world may be gathering in Milano Cortina, Italy, the next best thing is Lake Placid, the site of the Winter Olympics of 1980 and 1932 (one of the few sites to host even once and fewer still that have hosted more than once). Today, Lake Placid is a major Olympic training center and it is common to see athletes training, teams competing in world events (the World Cup in Luge was held in December), and athletes just hanging about in the pleasant village.

This February, Lake Placid is presenting a month-long festival of Olympic-inspired events, youth programs, and community celebrations. From a nightly lighting of the iconic Olympic Center to interactive digital experiences and hometown watch parties, Lake Placid’s festivities aim to celebrate its legendary Olympic past, inspire the next generation of athletes, and rally support for Team USA—including North Country competitors heading to Italy.

Key Highlights

Lighting of the Olympic Center (Feb. 5 – 22): Watch Lake Placid’s Olympic Center transform nightly in dazzling displays of red, white, and blue in honor of Team USA and the Olympic spirit.
Empire State Winter Games (Feb. 5 – 8): New York’s largest multi-sport winter event returns with the Parade of Athletes, the Turbo Twins extreme skating show, a ceremonial torch relay, and rarely seen Olympic artifacts.
Virtual Jersey Experience (Feb. 1 – 29): Step into a digital Team USA hockey jersey and snap an interactive photo at the Olympic Center — the perfect memento for fans and families.
Community Viewing Parties (Feb. 6 – 22): Cheer on Olympians at public viewing zones featuring live coverage, medal trackers, fan contests, and local athlete spotlights.
Lake Placid Olympic Museum Programs: Explore “Moments in Time” pop-up exhibits, hands-on art projects, memorabilia displays, and the Dream Wall, celebrating Olympic values and hometown heroes.
Public Skating & Themed Nights: Glide across the historic Olympic Oval, meet accomplished Olympians, and join themed skating sessions led by local coaches.

“Lake Placid isn’t just celebrating the Games — we’re celebrating our enduring Olympic legacy,” said Darcy Norfolk Rowe, Olympic Authority spokesperson. “The spirit of 1932 and 1980 lives on here every winter, and this February, we’ll share that excitement with visitors and fans from around the world.”

For complete schedules, event details, and ticketing information, visit:
https://lakeplacidlegacysites.com/olympiccelebration/

Feel what it’s like to race down the Olympic bobsled course at Mt Van Hoevenberg, Lake Placid. Lake Placid has special events and viewing opportunities throughout February to celebrate the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Even when the Olympics are not being held, at Lake Placid, you can not only visit Olympic venues and an outstanding Olympic Museum but try your own hand at bobsled, luge and skeleton on the Olympic track; do cross-country skiing and even biathalon at the Nordic ski center at Mt Van Hoevenberg (where you can also ride an amazing coaster); ride an elevator to the top of the alpine ski jumps; skate on the 1932 Olympic Oval and on the 1980 hockey rink where USA achieved its “Miracle on Ice” (an annual Miracle on Ice Fantasy Camp is held that includes players from the gold medal winning 1980 USA Hockey Team), and ski and snowboard at Whiteface Mountain (whiteface.com).

Feel like an Olympian skiing at Whiteface Mountain, site of two winter Olympics in 1932 and 1980. Lake Placid is celebrating the 2026 Winter Olympics with a full month of activities © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Whiteface Mountain (which participates in the Mountain Collective Pass) is operated by the state’s Olympic Regional Development Authority (orda.org). ORDA also manages the ski areas at Gore Mountain (goremountain.com) in the Adirondacks (located in North Creek, it is fabulous for intermediates and is where a new Gore Mountain Zip Coaster is opening this summer, part of a larger redevelopment that includes a new lodge and upgraded chairlifts, boosting the North Creek Ski Bowl for year-round visits), and Belleayre (belleayre.com) in the Catskills (just 2 ½ hours from New York City, which is especially great for families to ski and is opening a 28,600 sq. ft. Discovery Lodge to support year-round programming and tourism).

Skiing Gore Mountain, one of the three New York State ski areas operated by the Olympic Regional Development Authority. NYS actually has more ski areas – 52 – than any other state © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York State actually has more ski areas (52) than any other state –you are never more than 2 hours away from a ski area (see ISkiNY.com).

Besides FIFA World Cup, other world-class sports events coming to the state include:

*Watching racehorses training at the historic Saratoga Race Course © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Saratoga Race Course’s Final Belmont Stakes (Capital-Saratoga): Historic Saratoga Race Course will hold the 158^th running of the storied Belmont Stakes for its third and final time, on June 6, while Belmont Park remains under construction. Other prestigious races like the Travers Stakes occur throughout the 40-day summer meet at America’s oldest sporting venue, which runs from mid-July through Labor Day. (Be sure to visit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, www.racingmuseum.org)

Feel what it’s like to ride a race horse, at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga, where the historic Saratoga Race Course will hold the 158^th running of the storied Belmont Stakes for its third and final time, on June 6 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

U.S. Open Championship at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club (Long Island): Hosted by the United States Golf Association and one of the PGA Tour’s four major championships, the always challenging golf tournament will take place at the Southampton golf course June 15 – 21. The club has hosted the championship competition six times in the past, most recently in 2018.

Lake Placid will host the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series October 3-5, this time featuring men’s and women’s UCI World Cup races in both endurance and gravity formats. The three-day event includes UCI Cross-Country World Cup Races at Mt Van Hoevenberg and UCI Downhill World Cup at Whiteface Mountain (www.ucimtbworldseries.com/news/whiteface-mountain-to-host-uci-downhill-world-cup-in-lake-placid)

NYS Welcomes World With Major Improvements

New York State will also be welcoming international and domestic visitors with major improvements:

*Two terminals of the $19 billion redevelopment program at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) are scheduled to open in 2026 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

JFK Terminals 1 and 6 Phase One Reopening (New York City): The first two terminals of the $19 billion John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) redevelopment program are scheduled for a Phase One reopening in 2026. Terminal 1, a brand new and all-international terminal, will see the reopening of its arrivals hall and 14 of its 23 state-of-the-art gates. Premier dining venues, an indoor greenspace and refreshed family-oriented amenities complete with New York-inspired public art are still to come. Terminal 6 will reopen its first five gates; upon completion, the entire Terminal will encompass the former Terminal 6 and 7 spaces. The JFK redevelopment project is scheduled to be completed in 2030.

New Hotel Openings and Renovations:

Kimpton Era Midtown NYC (New York City): Opening this spring, the 529-guestroom hotel in Rockefeller Center features an elegant, yet dynamic design that immerses guests in the energy and spirit of Manhattan. The Kimpton Era Midtown NYC will feature three on-site restaurants, a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline, and will be pet-friendly.
- Little Nell Hotel (New York City): Scheduled for a fall opening, the Aspen-based luxury hotel brand announced its first expansion property: a 130-key hotel – the first and only hotel within the 10 Rockefeller Plaza building.
- Mirbeau Inn & Spa – Beacon (Hudson Valley): Set to open this spring, Mirbeau Inn & Spa Beacon will blend the Gothic Revival architecture of its historic mansion setting with Mirbeau’s signature French-inspired hospitality. Designed to evoke the charm of a French country manor, the property will feature tranquil ponds and gardens modeled after Monet’s at Giverny, offering guests a restorative retreat just two miles from the Beacon Train Station.

*Ride Amtrak to Albany for a scenic view of the Hudson © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

New York State tourism is reminding fans how easy it is to get outside the five boroughs and experience more of what the state has to offer: Metro North can take you to Hudson Valley (Vanderbilt Museum, FDR’s home at Hyde Park and the FDR Presidential Library); the Catskills (Bethel Center for Arts). Take the Long Island Railroad to the beach (Jones Beach State Park, Montauk) and wineries. Take Amtrak to Albany to visit the State Museum and Saratoga.

*Take Metro North to visit FDR’s Hyde Park © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Hop a short flight on Jet Blue or Delta to the mighty Niagara Falls or Buffalo (birthplace of Buffalo wings at Anchor Bar, where the new $2.2 billion Buffalo Bills’ New Stadium is opening).

For more information about travel around New York State, visit iloveny.com.

__________________

© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com, longislandpress.com/category/vacation-travel 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, Arts & Entertainment, Cultural travel, Museums and Exhibits, See America

Nashville: Beyond the Honky-Tonks

January 18, 2026 krubin723

*“Honky Tonk Highway” is alive with neon lights and live bands. @Geri Bain*

By Geri Bain for Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

You don’t have to be a country music fan to tap your feet to the rich music scene here. The creativity spills over into its art, cuisine, and decor. And of course, there’s that famous “hot chicken” and barbecue and a surprising number of authentic ethnic eateries. No wonder so many reunions, conventions and bachelor and bachelorette parties happen here.

To get in the mood for my trip, I watch “It All Begins with a Song,” a documentary that features songwriters performing and talking about their music, the creative process, and the unique role Nashville has had in their lives.

The film leads me to expect live music everywhere 24/7. Sure enough, there’s a band setting up at the airport when I land at noon, and there’s live music at shopping malls and clubs all around the city. The iconic experience is bar-and band-hopping along Lower Broadway, a.k.a. Honky Tonk Highway. Here, dozens of bars serve up live music, often on multiple floors, from 10 a.m. until the wee hours of the morning. Most do not have a cover charge or minimum.

*Live music is easy to find along Lower Broadway. @Geri Bain*

One of my favorite Honky Tonk Highway spots is the Ernest Tubb Record Shop. Opened by the charismatic Tubb (a.k.a. the Texas Troubadour) in 1947 before country records were widely sold, his shop quickly expanded to become a leading retail and mail-order country music record outlet and a low-key performance venue/bar with its own (still-operating) live radio show. Hank Williams, Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley were among those who would stop by and perform after their Grand Ole Opry appearances.

A band is playing amped up music with a captivating beat as I enter Ernest Tubb’s Record Shop and a duo is performing on acoustic guitars in the back room. I listen for a bit, use the QR code to send a tip, and then head up to the fifth floor, where the roof bar affords a birds-eye view of the neon-lit street. It’s December and nippy though, so the outside bar is closed. Back inside, the bar/record shop feels like a mini-museum with vintage vinyl records for sale and displays of an Ernest Tubb Nudie suit (named for its designer Nudie Cohn, not for the amount of skin shown), a guitar with his name inset in pearl, a note from Johnny Cash, photos, and other memorabilia. (We learned after our visit that the Ernest Tubb Record Shop closed temporarily.)

*Fairlane Hotel features mid-century modern decor and works by local artists. @Geri Bain*

After bar-hopping, it’s an easy walk back to my Nashville home, the boutique 79-room Fairlane Hotel. While it’s smack in the center of town and a short walk to most of the city’s attractions, when I tuck in to sleep that night there is zero noise. Plus I love my room’s floor-to-ceiling window walls, colorful mid-century modern decor, and the works of local artists (subtly for sale) throughout the public spaces, part of the hotel’s mission to connect with local culture.

*Nashville’s Pathway of History is literally a walk through time. @Geri Bain*

The next day, I set out to ground myself in some local history (Nashville is more than music). I walk up to the hilltop Tennessee Statehouse and then stroll into Bicentennial Mall State Park, created in 1996 to celebrate 200 years of statehood. I follow a self-guided map to the 200-foot granite map of the state. Then I find my way to the Pathway of History where pillars mark key dates on one side of a 1,400 foot long walkway and a timeline of events, quotes and commentary are engraved run in parallel a three-foot-tall granite wall on the other. Among the interesting factoids I pick up is that the word “Tennessee” is thought to come from a Native American name meaning place where water meets—describing its strategic location at the confluence of rivers.

At the edge of the park, the Tennessee State Museum presents an easy-to-follow narrative of the state’s history with eye-catching artifacts like a full-size cutaway log cabin, a model of a Conestoga Wagon, and the hat Tennessean Andrew Jackson wore at his 1829 presidential inauguration.

*Liquor Lab offers mixology classes. @Geri Bain*

That evening at a Liquor Lab mixology class, I learn the most effective and theatrical techniques for shaking cocktail ingredients including, importantly, how to give a strong twist to seal the shaker tightly. We mix three concoctions; my favorite is a spiked hot chocolate topped with crushed peppermint and whipped cream. Dinner is not part of most classes but happily mine is catered by the award-winning Peg-Leg Porker, a family-run restaurant/caterer, and I get my first scrumptious taste of classic Nashville barbecue.

*The Country Music Hall of Fame offers classes for kids and adults. @Geri Bain*

A highlight of my trip is a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. Dolly Parton is one of my heroes, and there’s a major exhibit devoted to her (running through September 2026). Watching a video interview, I learn that her song “Coat of Many Colors” refers to a true time when classmates made fun of her patchwork coat. Displays of her exuberant outfits, her guitars, the books she wrote and videos of performances and interviews convey a well-rounded picture of her work as a singer, song writer, businesswoman and philanthropist.

The permanent collection is equally lively, intimate and insightful. It is laid out chronologically with listening stations and displays illustrating the evolution of country music along with costumes, instruments and memorabilia of individual artists from the Carter Family to Elvis and Jelly Roll. Especially touching is a display of Roseanne Cash’s childhood drawings and writings, outfits and a video of her performing.

I’m drawn to the Taylor Swift Education Center, a two-story, 7,500-square-foot learning space within the museum which was opened in October 2013 with a $4 million gift from Taylor Swift to fund educational programs. I gravitate to a “Songwriting Station” which invites young visitors to create their own lyrics and providing markers and coloring sheets about musical instruments. A songwriting camp, craft classes and musical performances and talks are offered, but not during my visit. Next time I’ll plan ahead!

For lunch, I make my way to the nearby Assembly Food Hall which features everything from Vietnamese pho to Hawaiian poke. I’m excited to try the renowned Prince’s Hot Chicken but, coward that I am, I order the medium spice level because I’ve been warned the three hotter levels will burn through your entire digestive system. My chicken is delicious, tongue-tingling and sinus-clearing but not painful.

*You can make your own playlists at the National Museum of African American Music. @ Geri Bain*

My next stop is the National Museum of African Music, which had its ceremonial opening on January 18, 2021, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with the museum opening to the public on January 30, 2021. It may well be the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and impact of African American music genres.

At the ticket desk, I receive an RFID wristband; this allows me to download playlists I create throughout the museum which are emailed to me. Exhibits trace the history of African-American music from spirituals and gospel and their roots in indigenous African music to jazz, R&B and hiphop. I find it hard to move on from the interactive stations, especially the jazz table, where I play with layering on instruments and styles in the way a jazz musician might.

A short walk from here is the Ryman Auditorium, the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. Outside the Ryman are bronze statues of stars including Loretta Lynn and Charley Pride. On a guided tour, I learn that the pew-like seats and stained glass windows come by their church feeling honestly. The building started its life as the Union Gospel Tabernacle in 1892. It was built by Thomas Ryman, a onetime hard-partying riverboat captain who “saw the light” and was inspired to build this grand center for religious revivalist meetings.

Taking the stage during a tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium. The Ryman is affectionately known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” because it began as a church. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Over time, it hosted more concerts than church meetings and became known as The Ryman Auditorium, thanks to Lula C. Naff, the gutsy general manager from 1920 to 1955. She saved the building from the wrecking ball by booking A-list entertainers and lecturers and eventually arranged for the Grand Ole Opry radio show to broadcast live from here.

In the early days of radio, this show was the only one broadcasting country music around the country. The original Grand Ole Opry radio show began in 1925, broadcast from a WSM studio in Nashville’s National Life & Accident Insurance building and is recognized as the longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history. The show drew top talent to Nashville who to this day live and produce music in the many studios along Music Row, and effectively kicked off the city’s growth into the musical center (“Music City”!) it is today.

The exhibits, such as Johnny Cash’s and June Carter’s outfits, are cool, but the most fun is the chance to ham it up for a souvenir photo, included in the tour price, on the very stage where Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, and more recently, Bruce Springsteen, Lizzo and Taylor Swift have performed.

*The Neoclassical Schermerhorn Symphony Center is beautiful, inside and out. @Geri Bain*

Nashville isn’t only about Country Music. In the evening, I attend a performance by Trisha Yearwood at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. She is accompanied by the Nashville Symphony, which prides itself on its mastery of diverse musical genres. The acoustics here are so good that without amplification voices can be heard in all parts of the nearly 2,000 seat hall.

On my last evening, I experience a show at the modern “new” home of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring Ashley McBryde, Riders in the Sky and five other acts. This venue is more than twice the size of the Ryman, with more than 4,000 seats. Interestingly, when people talk about the Grand Ole Opry, they aren’t talking about a place; they’re talking about the musical variety radio show which is still broadcast with live audiences in attendance, so we get to see how this radio show is produced. Commercials between acts, read by the announcer, and the “On Air” signs are reminders that this still is a live radio show.

*The Grand Ole Opry is a live radio show. @Geri Bain*

The highlight of the evening for me is the pre-show backstage tour; I get a kick out of seeing the dressing rooms and mailboxes of Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks and other country music icons. My tour even gets glimpses of the Gatlin Brothers and Ashley McBryde strolling through the halls before their performances.

*At Poppy & Peep, chocolate creation is a high art @Geri Bain*

Nashville, of course, is about more than making music. All that inventiveness extends naturally into the food, cocktail and cultural scenes. Chocolate can be high art as I learn at a chocolate-making session at Poppy & Peep, a father-daughter owned company that makes handcrafted small-batch bonbons and confections that are both playful and flavorful. The workshop steps through process of turning cocoa beans into chocolate and then places us in workstations with food coloring and paint brushes to create our own bonbon designs.

*8th & Roast offers seed-to-cup coffee classes. @Geri Bain*

This city also takes its coffee and cafes seriously. Among the acclaimed small batch brewers is 8th & Roast. I attend their “seed-to-cup” class, where I learn about their alliances with family farms that grow their beans and the various types of roasts, and participate in a traditional “coffee cupping” where we “slurp” and taste ten brews.

Nashville’s foods range from Michelin starred restaurants to casual barbecue joints. The city is also home to the largest Kurdish community in the U.S. along with many other immigrant groups, and this makes for some wonderfully authentic ethnic eateries. I head out of downtown into the neighborhoods to dine at Alebrije, a Mexican restaurant, where the mole sauce takes me back to Oaxaca, Mexico and taste my first Uzbek cooking at Uzbegim, a Michelin recommended restaurant, where I enjoy Tandir samosa, a savory pastry with spiced minced meat and veggies.

Among my favorites is Edessa Restaurant in “Little Kurdistan.” When I walk in, practically every table is taken, and several large groups have tantalizing spreads of kebobs, lamb shank, and sauces laid out. The food is done to perfection and the decor is authentic; a large painting on the wall is of the co-owner’s hometown in Turkey.

As I reflect on my Nashville getaway, what most impresses me is that the openness and collaboration that leads to great music seems to bubble over into the entire culture. Perhaps that explains the friendly, welcoming vibe that makes the city such a joy to visit.

Travel Tips:

Carry your id with you if you’re heading out to the bars—most are strict about requiring ID, even if you are obviously well over 21.

Plan to tip musicians you enjoy; that’s often their only compensation.

Plan ahead. Buy tickets for popular events and concert venues in advance, especially if you want to catch a top-name artist or attend one of the popular writer’s rounds.

For more information, go to www.visitmusiccity.com.

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© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com, longislandpress.com/category/vacation-travel 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

International Travel, Tips for Travel

Planning to Travel Abroad in 2026? What to Know About Passports, Visas

January 14, 2026 krubin723

A safari in India’s Kahna Tiger Sanctuary. Antoinette Leon of ItsEasy.com cites India as a top international destination for 2026 for its “depth of culture, affordability, range of experiences, from Himalayan peaks to coastal backwaters, and efficient e-Tourist Visa system means you can craft an unforgettable escape on short notice.” *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

In our “Where to Go: International” column, Antoinette Leon, COO & SVP of ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services recommended five destinations (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, India, Vietnam and Brazil) to visit in 2026, which prompted these additional questions about the passport, visa process. If you are among the 50 percent of Americans who do not yet hold a passport, or among the millions who must renew after 10 years, here are valuable tips and information for anyone contemplating traveling abroad in 2026:

How hard is it to renew passports these days with all the issues of the Trump administration?

President Biden’s Executive Order enabled renewing qualifying passports online, now with limited availability, without the need to submit any documents through the mail. More recently, the Trump Administration issued a mandate for exactness and accuracy of the applicant’s identity and sex, based solely on official birth records, followed by required certified and registered official documents should there have been subsequent legal name change(s). All passport applicants must understand that routine or expedited applications can slow without much warning. Even small issues, such as a photo error, a name mismatch, or a tight timeline can become a bigger headache in a system under pressure.

How hard/easy is it to do the renewal using the online system, and what can go wrong?

*The iconic Ponte Vecchio, Florence, Italy. Only half the country has a passport, and millions have to renew © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Convenient? Yes. Foolproof? No. The online passport renewal system is a game-changer when it works but it doesn’t work for everyone. Name changes, lost or damaged passports, child passports are not eligible for OPR. Rejected photos and technical glitches can instantly disqualify you or stall your application. Payment processing errors and upload failures happen more often than you’d think. If you’re on a deadline and something goes sideways, a small mistake can snowball into a travel-canceling disaster.

ItsEasy.com offers a new “All Inclusive” OPR Concierge Service, where we examine each customer’s application to ensure it will be successfully renewed, and includes the required photos via the ItsEasy Passport Renewal & Photo App ($39.95).

How much in advance of the expiration date in passport do you recommend starting?

*Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Make sure you have enough time on your passport before expiration, and give yourself plenty of time to get the e-visa © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Since select countries require that a passport be valid for at least 3 to 6 months (depending upon the country) upon arrival back to the United States, it makes sense to start your passport renewal at least six months before it expires.

Many countries won’t let you in if your passport is less than 6 months away from its expiration date upon return to the US, regardless of whether your airline clears you for boarding (some countries require only 3 months).

Cut it too close and you’ll be watching your dream trip evaporate. Renewing early keeps your travel options wide open, your stress levels low, and avoids unnecessary government expedite fees.

Have any countries responded to Trump’s crackdown on issuing visas and raising fees, and country bans, with new restrictions on the US?

When the U.S. tightens visa restrictions, hikes fees, or adds new barriers, other nations often retaliate with their own requirements. This doesn’t always mean full-blown visa mandates, but you’ll see more digital registrations, entry fees, and enhanced screening for American travelers. These policy shifts can happen quickly and without much warning, so staying informed is critical before you book that flight.

What places don’t require Americans to get a visa? – like the UK, Europe?

*Cuzco, Peru. No visa is required for Americans to visit Peru for under 90 days © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Americans still enjoy visa-free access to popular spots like the UK, Europe’s Schengen Zone, Japan, and much of Latin America. But “visa-free” is evolving. Many of these destinations now require electronic travel authorizations, like the UK’s ETA or Europe’s ETIAS, before you arrive. It’s not a traditional visa, but it’s definitely not zero paperwork anymore. Even when you don’t need a visa, expect to register digitally in advance.

What are the advantages of getting the Global Entry, vs. TSA?

Colorful Hoi An. Vietnam makes it easy to get an e-visa (make sure you follow the format of day-month-year). Global Entry makes it easy for travelers to breeze through immigration on the return © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

TSA PreCheck gets you through U.S. airport security faster. But Global Entry is the power move for international travelers. It includes everything TSA PreCheck offers, plus you skip the brutal customs lines when you return home. Biometric kiosks let you breeze through immigration, shaving off what can be hours of waiting. If you travel abroad even once or twice a year, Global Entry pays for itself in time and sanity saved.

What is the difference in applying for TSA vs Global Entry besides the cost? What is the renewal process like? Can you still walk into a Staples?

You don’t have to go to Africa to enjoy a safari. Safari West in Sonoma, California is the next best thing. Breeze through domestic airports going and coming with TSA PreCheck © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

TSA PreCheck -Valid for 5 years, it’s a luxury which, in most cases, tends to aid the airport check-in process at ALL domestic airports regardless of Travel Destination. $75-$85.

While approval for TSA PreCheck could take up to 30 days, most often the applicant will be approved within 24-72 hours via email to which the applicant’s new Known Traveler Number (KTN) is sent. You enter this special number when purchasing an airline ticket.

Three companies have been approved to roll out the TSA PreCheck Program: Idemia; Telos, & Clear, which have partnered with Office Depot and Staples. ItsEasy.com also has partnered with Telos Corp and currently provides TSA PreCheck Enrollment Services at its Grand Central and Rockefeller Center locations.

*The line on the right is the entrance to security without TSA PreCheck at JFK. The empty lane on the left is the access to TSA PreCheck © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Global Entry – Valid for 5 years, it’s designed to aid and greatly expedite the reentry into the USA at almost all domestic Airports with a provision for International Arrivals.

The application process is deep and the final interview is often only done at select major US airports by a US Customs Entry Officer trained specifically for this most critical evaluation process.

The Global Entry application process begins online only at the Government’s specific website: ttp.dhs.gov. Be aware: many applicants get lured into fraudulent online sites with GOV in the website name, release private information, and then get charged double to fill out the same government questionnaire. ONLY a dhs site ending in dot gov (.gov) will be safe.

When is it advised to use a passport, visa agency such as yours? Are there some countries that are trickier? Examples?

*One of the famous “black boats,” which the oarsman powers by his feet, glides along East Lake. China is one of the trickier countries to get a visa. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

If your timeline is tight, the rules are dense, and a single missing detail could derail your plan, that’s when an agency like ItsEasy.com becomes essential. Countries such as China, Russia, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Kenya are known for layered visa requirements, frequent policy shifts, and strict documentation standards that can trip up even experienced travelers. Passport issues add another layer of complexity, urgent renewals, child passports, name-change corrections, or lost and damaged passports often involve rigid government rules and little margin for error. A professional agency navigates both the visa and passport compliance maze, flags issues early, and monitors changes in real time. When the stakes are high and the margin for error is razor-thin, professional guidance is worth the extra expense.

In the old days, you had to send away your passport for renewal, during which time you couldn’t travel abroad. Is that still the case? (I’m a travel writer and can’t be without my passport for any period of time).

*You may not need a visa to take Boat Bike Tours’ Islandhopping biking tour of Netherlands, but you need to renew your passport with enough time to travel © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The policy is still the same. The only new option available to renew adult passports under “select guidelines” is the OPR – Online Passport Renewal Program. However, regardless of whether you send away your passport for Renewal Processing, or you qualify for, and make use of, the new government OPR Program, your passport is no longer valid for use. Despite the fact that you are still in physical possession of your passport when using the OPR System, your passport should be considered canceled and invalid the moment you press the program’s online SUBMIT button.

Oftentimes, executives, journalists, students, etc find themselves in a situation whereby they must travel while their current passport is being processed for renewal, or has been submitted pending a foreign visa. A second valid passport is a privilege granted to those applicants that can prove that they have travel conflicts that will require the issuance of a second valid passport.

Do you have any comments about how many Americans have a passport and whether interest and numbers have increased/decreased?

About half of all Americans now carry a valid passport, and that number keeps rising. Since 2022, there’s been a noticeable surge in applications, fueled by post-pandemic wanderlust, the rise of remote work, and a generation of younger travelers eager to explore beyond borders. First-time applicants are driving much of this growth. More Americans are thinking globally, and passport ownership is on a clear upward trajectory.

How were these 5 destinations selected?

*Ninh Binh, Vietnam. “Vietnam continues to deliver incredible bang for your buck, authentic experiences, electronic visa convenience, and landscapes that’ll fill your camera roll,” says* *Antoinette Leon of ItsEasy.com © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.*

Right now, these five countries are hitting the sweet spot of accessibility, value, and adventure. Saudi Arabia and Egypt are rolling out the red carpet with digital visa systems and spectacular new cultural attractions that rival much of Europe. India and Vietnam continue to deliver incredible bang for your buck, authentic experiences, electronic visa convenience, and landscapes that’ll fill your camera roll. Brazil ties it all together with competitive pricing, excellent air connections from the U.S., and a resurgence in international appeal. From ancient wonders to tropical paradises, these destinations span the globe and welcome both spontaneous weekend travelers and meticulous planners alike.

What do you anticipate for Americans traveling abroad in 2026?

*Welcome to Camogli, Italy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

If you’re traveling internationally in 2026, expect a lot more screens, scans, and verification steps. Europe’s Entry/Exit System (EES) and ETIAS authorization program will add new layers of digital checks. Airlines are leaning heavily on biometric systems and automated verification. Border agents everywhere are cracking down on overstays and incomplete documentation. The prepared traveler will breeze through; the unprepared one will get stuck in bottlenecks.

Any comments you would like to add?

With the new REAL ID requirement, for easy access to US airports, the US passport Card is a great option offered to the US consumer that deserves more attention. While it’s easy to apply for at any time, it is a $30 bargain as an additional item request when renewing your passport book.

Not only is it REAL ID compliant for US airport check-in, but it serves as the best daily Proof of ID as it does not display your home address, leaving the knowledge of where you live and how you live remaining private! Leave your Driver’s License securely in your wallet, and it will always be there when you need it.

ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services, founded in 1976, is a leading passport and visa expediting company that has processed over 2 million passport and visa applications on behalf of their customers. If there is a problem with an application, ItsEasy.com can interact with the U.S. Government or foreign agencies to resolve problems, for ItsEasy Passport & Photo App offers a safe and cost-effective way to renew a passport. For urgent passports needed within 14 days, ItsEasy.com offers rush services.

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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

Best in Travel, International Travel, Where to Go Next

Where to Go in 2026: Top International Destinations

January 4, 2026 krubin723

*One of the special experiences to have in India: the Pushkar Camel Fair © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Where to go in 2026: Experts offer their recommendations for which international destinations should top your list:

ItsEasy: Top 5 International Destinations for ‘Spontaneous’ Traveler

Antoinette Leon, COO & SVP of ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services, offered these five destinations for international travel for 2026 -Saudi Arabia, Egypt, India, Vietnam, and Brazil – citing factors such as safety standards, great value, tourism infrastructure, range of experiences, and convenient visa processes that make them prime choices for spontaneous travelers:

Saudi Arabia is rapidly redefining itself as a global travel hotspot with surprising ease for visitors. Thanks to a simplified online e-Visa system, travelers can apply, get approved, and pack their bags in a matter of days. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom has expanded tourism infrastructure with new hotels, resorts, and entertainment zones that rival more established luxury destinations, but at far greater value. Safety standards and visitor services have risen dramatically, particularly in major tourist corridors like Riyadh, Jeddah, and AlUla. For spontaneous travelers seeking a blend of authenticity, comfort, and discovery, Saudi Arabia is a rising star. Unique things to do: Dive among coral reefs off the Red Sea coast, camp beneath starlit dunes in the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), and explore AlUla’s ancient rock-carved wonders, often compared to Petra’s lost city. Indulge in a rooftop dinner overlooking Riyadh’s glittering skyline or unwind on untouched islands near Jeddah.

Egypt is a timeless destination that continues to reinvent itself for modern travelers. With the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the largest archaeological museum on Earth, Cairo has reclaimed its place on the world’s cultural stage. Add to that the convenient e-Visa system, accessible flights, and wallet-friendly hotels, and Egypt becomes a spontaneous traveler’s dream. Strong tourism infrastructure, improved safety, and warm winter weather make it ideal for both quick getaways and immersive adventures. Unique things to do: Start at the awe-inspiring Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, where Tutankhamun’s treasures are finally fully displayed. Cruise the Nile on a boutique dahabiya, drift in a sunrise balloon over Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and dive into the Red Sea’s coral gardens in Marsa Alam.

*A safari into the Tiger Reserve in Kahna, India © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

India welcomes the spur-of-the-moment traveler with open arms, and an efficient e-Tourist Visa system that makes entry quick and digital. The country’s depth of culture, affordability, and range of experiences, from Himalayan peaks to coastal backwaters, means you can craft an unforgettable escape on short notice. Safety and infrastructure continue to improve in major hubs, and the abundance of flights makes internal travel seamless. Unique things to do: Stay in a regal palace-turned-hotel in Rajasthan, glide through Kerala’s backwaters aboard a private houseboat, or explore the lesser-trodden coffee trails of Coorg. For culinary adventurers, join an intimate cooking class in Udaipur or a spice market tour in Delhi.

*The spectacular colorful lanterns and boats of Hoi An, Vietnam © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Vietnam Is compact, affordable, and endlessly fascinating and tailor-made for bold travelers. Its fast-track e-Visa system allows easy entry, while low travel costs and strong tourism infrastructure make short-notice trips stress-free. Whether you crave cultural immersion, tropical coastlines, or street food adventures, Vietnam delivers a full journey in a single, well-connected sweep. Unique things to do: Sail Ha Long Bay’s limestone towers by private sampan, explore Hoi An’s lantern-lit alleys, and zip through Hanoi’s old quarters on a vintage motorbike.

Brazil is the heartbeat of South America, a destination that dances to its own rhythm and welcomes travelers at any moment. From the beaches of Rio to the jungles of the Amazon, it offers vast variety within easy reach. For U.S. travelers, Brazil’s reinstated e-Visa system (as of 2025) simplifies entry and makes last-minute trips entirely feasible. With direct flights from several U.S. cities, world-class hospitality, and relatively low off-peak rates, it’s an ideal getaway that feels both exotic and effortless. Unique things to do: Stroll the bohemian streets of Santa Teresa in Rio, cruise through the flooded forests of the Amazon, or explore the colonial charm of Paraty’s cobblestone alleys. Relax on hidden beaches in Bahia or chase waterfalls through the Chapada Diamantina National Park.

ItsEasy.com Passport & Visa Services, founded in 1976, is known for ItsEasy Passport & Photo App, which offers a safe and cost-effective way to renew a passport. For urgent passports needed within 14 days, ItsEasy.com offers rush services.

Explorateur Journeys: Europe’s Top Five Value Destinations

Explorateur Journeys is recommending these five European destinations for offering some of the best value for dollar as well as compelling interest.

*Biking in Budapest, Hungary © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

HUNGARY: Think hillside castles, café-lined boulevards, thermal baths steaming under neo-baroque domes, ruin bars glowing at night flanked by storybook towns and vast vineyards.

ALBANIA: Once Europe’s mystery, Albania is now the continent’s rising gem. Its riviera rivals Greece for turquoise water and dramatic cliffs but without the crowds or price tag, while its inland mountains beckon for adventure.

*Albania’s scenic mountains, enjoyed on a BikeTours.com trip – e-bike recommended © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

SERBIA: Belgrade’s nightlife has earned global fame but Serbia is all about Roman fortresses, wild river canyons, and traditional kafanas serving slow-cooked perfection. Real, affordable and surprisingly cosmopolitan.

MACEDONIA: Still one of Europe’s best kept secrets, Lake Ohrid is a UNESCO treasure that feels untouched. Add in Skopje’s blend of Ottoman bazaars and bold modern architecture, mountain monasteries, and vineyard-dotted valleys, and you’ve got a country rich in story yet light on your wallet.

*Lake Ohrid, Macedonia © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

ROMANIA: Dracula legends meet Carpathian peaks and medieval citadels in a country where Gothic castles overlook cobblestoned cities like Brașov and Sibiu. Bucharest hums with café life and Art Deco flair, while Transylvania and Maramureș deliver cinematic landscapes.

Explorateur Journeys, info@explorateurjourneys.com, 973-420-8343, explorateurjourneys.com.

Annual Matador Network Travel Awards Recognize 12 Top Destinations Worldwide

Twelve winners of the 2025 Matador Network Travel Awards were recently announced by the travel publisher. Half of the dozen honorees were nominated and chosen by criteria developed by the in-house team of Matador world-travel experts, and the other six are Matador readers’ choice honorees. In addition to the five traditional awards, this year marks the inclusion of a new category: Best Wildlife Destination.

“It’s up to each and every individual to make the most of every trip no matter where you go, but the award-winning destinations this year certainly set you up for success,” ,says Matador Network CEO Ross Borden.. “Whether you’re a full-time world traveler or just taking one big trip next year, use this list to plan your 2026.”

Matador Network Travel Awards

Readers’ Choice

Estonia has long been overlooked, but better flight connections and visible progress on sustainable tourism have helped make it Matador’s Next Big Destination. Tartu, its second-largest city, was named the European Capital of Culture 2024.

*In Oaxaca, Mexico, adventure is everywhere, from mountain biking to surfing © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In Oaxaca, Mexico, adventure is everywhere, from mountain biking the Sierra Norte to surfing the coast.

Over the past few years, the Portuguese island of Madeira has turned itself into an example of what a popular, modern, climate-aware destination can look like.

*A thrilling sunrise hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Turkey © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In Türkiye, wellness is baked into daily life, from weekly hammam rituals and thermal baths to long seaside walks and slow breakfasts that stretch into the afternoon.

The inaugural winner of Best Wildlife Destination is Baja California, where desert mountains fall into two very different bodies of water, like a wildlife corridor you can road-trip.

And because you can’t road-trip everywhere, Qatar is the experts’ choice for Best Airline while Emirates took the top spot among the readers.

*The historic town of Girokaster. Albania makes two lists: Best Value in Europe and Next Big Destination © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Readers selected Albania as their Next Big Destination for its coastal scenery without sticker shock and mountain landscapes that feel genuinely wild.

Patagonia is a place where you can string together multi-day treks, ice hikes, whale watching and long-distance road trips and barely skim the surface.

Costa Rica, home to last year’s experts’ pick for Wellness, is this year’s readers’ choice pick for Best Sustainable Destination.

*Rotorua has some of New Zealand’s most active geothermal fields and geysers, mud pools and hot springs © Sarah Falter/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Rotorua, New Zealand, sits over some of the country’s most active geothermal fields and geysers, mud pools and hot springs shape the streetscape.

Nairobi National Park is less than 30 minutes from downtown Nairobi, meaning you can watch lions, rhinos and giraffes with office towers and high-rises on the horizon.

“When there’s always somewhere new to go, the hardest question travelers face isn’t ‘Where Next?’ It’s ‘Why there?'” says Nickolaus Hines, editorial content director at Matador Network. “Our winners are the places and airlines that have proven, year after year, that they can deliver on the kind of experiences people travel for.”

View the 2025 Matador Network Travel Awards.

Matador Network is a leading travel media brand and the creator of GuideGeek, an award-winning AI travel genius. The GuideGeek AI platform has over 1M consumer users and powers custom conversational AI for dozens of travel brands and destinations. matadornetwork.com, guidegeek.com

Top Reasons to Visit Slovenia in 2026

*The fascinating Predjama Castle built into the side of a mountain, visited on a bike tour of Slovenia © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In 2026, Slovenia invites travelers to explore a year rich in cultural milestones, outdoor adventures, and experiences that redefine slow, meaningful travel. From a centuries-old passion play to world-class architecture, from cycling legends to blooming meadows and new spaces for remote work, this small European country between the Alps and the Adriatic offers endless inspiration. Here are some of the highlights for 2026 not to be missed:

Every six years, the medieval town of Škofja Loka transforms into an open-air stage for the Škofja Loka Passion Play (March 21- April 19, 2026), a UNESCO-inscribed performance that unites more than a thousand locals in a moving display of heritage and devotion.

In Bled, a new architectural and cultural landmark will open in summer 2026: the Muzej Lah, designed by David Chipperfield Architects. Housing the Lah Collection, it bridges Alpine serenity with contemporary art and design.

Named Europe’s Best Cultural Heritage Town 2026, Ptuj – Slovenia’s oldest town – embodies living tradition. Its Roman heritage and vibrant festivals, including Kurentovanje – the largest Shrovetide carnival, recognised by UNESCO for its ritual of chasing away winter – make Ptuj one of the country’s most atmospheric historic towns.

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the European Road Cycling Championships in Ljubljana (October 3–7, 2026). For a nation home to champions such as Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič, it’s both a sporting milestone and an invitation to discover Slovenia’s world-class cycling routes.

Across the country, a wave of new openings – from the Kneipp-inspired NaturHotel Snovik to Slovenia’s first family hotel in Olimje – will further enrich Slovenia’s boutique hospitality scene.

The newest Slovenia Unique Experiences – from mushroom foraging in Bovec to exploring a 19th-century photography studio in Celje – invite visitors to slow down, connect, and participate.

And for those seeking a balance between work and wanderlust, Slovenia now offers a digital nomad visa, making it easier than ever to live and work amid its natural beauty.

Explore the full list of 2026 highlights here.

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Adventure Travel, Experiential Travel, Festivals and Events, Health and Wellness travel, Heritage Travel, International Travel, Wellness tourism, Wellness Travel, Where to Go Next

Where to Go in 2026 for Transformation, Renewal, Fulfillment

December 28, 2025 krubin723

The magical “Diamond Ring'” of a total solar eclipse lasts mere moments. Book now for tours, cruises, accommodations, and air travel to witness the Solar Eclipse August 12, 2026 that will pass over the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Atlantic Ocean, northern Spain and the tip of northeastern Portugal © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Travelers are increasingly choosing destinations with purpose – for their beauty or legacy, for landmark anniversaries, special event, and most importantly, for the opportunity for transformation, emotional resonance, spiritual and self-renewal, and experience, sometimes life-changing but always life-enhancing. Here are a few suggestions:

Solar Eclipse August 12, 2026

The event that promises to be the most transformational in 2026 is the August 12 total eclipse of the sun which will be best viewed in Iceland, Greenland, and northern Spain. You must be strategic: totality lasts a mere 2 to 3 minutes © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The event that promises to be the most transformational is the Solar Eclipse August 12, 2026 that will 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, it 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, 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.

Tour operators and cruise companies are organizing special itineraries; you can also contact the national and local tourist offices (like Iceland, https://www.visiticeland.com/article/iceland-solar-eclipse-2026/) to put together your own arrangements. (Map of path of totality: https://nso.edu/for-public/eclipse-map-2026/)

Long Lake, New York, April 8, 2024: The eerie, even spiritual moments when the world suddenly, briefly goes dark and silent in the middle of a sunny day during a total eclipse of the sun © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

A huge advantage of experiencing the eclipse on a ship is that the open ocean means the view is unobstructed – also, the ship can monitor weather to position itself to avoid clouds that can spoil the moment (totality lasts only about 2 to 3 minutes).

Holland America is offering special voyages incorporating the solar eclipse: 35-Day Voyage of the Vikings Cruise with Solar Eclipse (Jul 18 – Aug 22 to Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Ireland); 13-Day Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnights (Aug 9-22); 28-Day Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland & Scotland (Jul 24-Aug 21) (https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/us/plan-a-cruise/specialty-cruises/solar-eclipse-cruises)

*Iceland, a land of fire and ice, will be center stage for the August 12, 2026 total eclipse of the sun © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Hurtigruten (now HX Expeditions) offered a specific 2026 Solar Eclipse Expedition on the MS Spitsbergen, sailing from Svalbard (Norway) via Greenland to Iceland, focusing on East Greenland’s Blosseville Coast for the August 12, 2026 total solar eclipse, promising prime viewing in Scoresby Sound, with onboard experts and unique expedition experiences. The 17-day cruise departs August 3 (https://www.travelhx.com/en-us/cruises/solar-eclipse-expedition-2026-greenland-iceland-and-svalbard/)

Explore Worldwide, a small-groups operator with 40 years experience, is one of the tour companies offering solar eclipse itineraries in Spain and Iceland. In northern Spain, it is offering two itineraries a food tour in Catalonia and the Basque Country (8 days) where you’ll be well-placed in the limestone peaks of the Sierra de Prades mountains on eclipse day, or an amended itinerary of its -popular Walking in the Picos de Europa (8 days) optimized to see the solar eclipse. In Iceland, the company is offering a special departure of Iceland-Land of the Midnight Sun (9 days) where you will on the beautiful Snaefellsness Peninsula for the eclipse. And for the truly dedicated, a 15-day Spitsbergen, Greenland and Iceland Arctic expedition aboard the M/VGreg Mortimer which will sail directly into the path of totality for prime viewing from the deck of the expedition vessel. Other tours featuring the solar eclipse include: Classic Egypt and Eclipse (11 days); Highlights of Northern Morocco and Eclipse (9 Days); Tunisian Coast, Ancient Carthage and Eclipse (10 days). (https://www.exploreworldwide.com/experiences/eclipse-trips, Exploreworldwide.com , 877-956-9859)

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

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

Book early – G Adventures and most Wilderness Travel itineraries are sold out; Smithsonian Journeys is waitlisted as of when we published.

Rishikesh’s Spiritual Depth in the Himalayan Foothills

Long revered for its spiritual heritage, Rishikesh continues to be one of India’s most soulful destinations, where ancient rituals, wellness innovation, and inner awakening converge in the Himalayan foothills. Anchored by the International Yoga Festival (March 9–15, 2026) and a vibrant calendar of annual rituals, from the spring festival of colors, Holi (March 4), to purification ceremonies like Ganga Dussehra (May 25), and the summertime Kanwar Mela pilgrimage (July–August), the region pulses with devotion, classical music, riverside ceremonies, and communal celebration.

*Ananda in the Himalayas, a world-renowned wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills (Photo courtesy of Ananda in the Himalayas)*

At the heart of this is Ananda in the Himalayas, a globally acclaimed wellness retreat housed in the restored palace of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, Ananda enters 2026 with expanded offerings that reflect the future of holistic wellness. The retreat continues to lead in transformative programs across Ayurveda, yoga, emotional healing, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. New initiatives include Integrated Diabetes Management, women’s health, fertility, and sleep enhancement. Ananda’s 360-degree wellness system extends care beyond the stay through personalized diagnostics, daily therapies, and post-visit consultations. Signature programs such as Hormonal Balance, Yogic Detox, Panchakarma, and Ayurvedic Rejuvenation harmonize body and mind through traditional systems of healing, classical Hatha yoga, pranayama, and meditation

Kyoto’s Cultural Crescendo Rooted in Ritual and Renewal

In 2026, Kyoto offers a rare cultural crescendo, where centuries-old traditions, seasonal rituals, and landmark openings converge in one of Japan’s most spiritually resonant cities. The Miyako Odori returns to its original stage in Gion (April 1–30), with daily performances by geiko and maiko, now housed in the restored Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater, reborn as part of the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, opening spring 2026. Designed by Obayashi Corporation for the exteriors and Tomoyuki Sakakida with New Material Research Laboratory for the interiors, the hotel preserves the 1936 Yasaka Kaikan structure using over 16,000 original tiles and offers just 55 rooms across three architecturally distinct wings. The property blends heritage architecture with contemporary Japanese design, offering curated calm in the heart of Gion.

*Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, blending modern elegance with centuries of cultural heritage.* *(Photo courtesy of New Material Research Laboratory)*

With Kyoto’s embrace of a more sustainable approach to tourism, travelers benefit from enhanced access, quieter moments and deeper cultural immersion in one of Japan’s most spiritually rich cities. Kyoto’s cultural calendar continues with the Gion Matsuri (July 1–31), featuring lantern-lit Yoiyama celebrations, Yamaboko float processions, and the Nagoshisai purification ritual. In September, the city marks the 400th anniversary of the Kan’ei Imperial Visit to Nijo Castle with reenactments, rare chamber access, and curated exhibitions. Seasonal temple openings and immersive installations offer deeper engagement. Infrastructure upgrades, including new EX100/EX101 buses and enhanced fare systems, make navigation seamless.

Monteverde’s Cloud Forest Regenerative Escape

In 2026, Monteverde welcomes travelers to a high-altitude sanctuary where misty forests, ecological milestones, and creative immersion converge. The region marks over 50 years of conservation since the founding of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, celebrated through legacy hikes, biodiversity exhibitions, and community-led programs. New interpretive trails connect to the Children’s Eternal Rainforest, while artisan showcases and solstice rituals reflect Monteverde’s evolving cultural rhythm. Infrastructure upgrades, including smoother access via Route 606 and expanded EV charging stations, make travel easier, especially with more international flights into Liberia Airport.

*Hotel Belmar, a forest sanctuary celebrating 40 years of sustainability and style.* (*Photo courtesy of Hotel Belmar)*

Central to this revival is Hotel Belmar, a family-owned eco-lodge perched above the forest canopy, known for alpine-inspired architecture, panoramic views, and sustainability leadership. In 2026, Hotel Belmar debuts nature-immersive wellness spaces and enhanced culinary offerings rooted in circular gastronomy. At Restaurante Celajes, regenerative menus honor Costa Rica’s agrarian traditions, using ingredients from Belmar’s organic farm and gardens. Overlooked crops, foraged herbs, and zero-waste techniques turn each dish into a tribute to biodiversity and soil health. Belmar’s Artist Residency Program invites creatives to live and work onsite, engaging guests through open studios, forest-inspired installations, and workshops.

Mongolia’s Living Traditions and a Journey into the Wild

In 2026, Mongolia emerges as one of the world’s most compelling destinations—not only for its vast, otherworldly landscapes but also for its global moment in the spotlight. The country will host COP17, the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), from August 17–28 in Ulaanbaatar. This landmark event coincides with the UN’s International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, an initiative spearheaded by Mongolia to celebrate and protect nomadic cultures and ecosystems. These milestones underscore Mongolia’s leadership in environmental stewardship and its deep connection to land-based traditions—making 2026 an especially meaningful time to visit.

*The Flaming Cliffs of Mongolia, a dramatic desert landmark and paleontological treasure* *(Photo courtesy of Pexels)*

Cultural celebrations add further dimension: the Naadam Festival (July 11–12) showcases Mongolia’s national pride through wrestling, archery, and horse racing. In early March, the Thousand Camel Festival in the Gobi Desert celebrates the magnificent Bactrian camel with races, polo, and traditional music. Adding to the momentum, Naya Traveler will debut its new Mongolia journeys in 2026, offering tailor-made itineraries that go far beyond the Golden Eagle Festival. Expect private access to cultural events, guided exploration of the Gobi Desert and Orkhon Valley, and meaningful encounters with herders and historians. These journeys reflect a growing trend toward regenerative, culturally attuned travel—where connection, context, and care shape every experience. With Mongolia joining Naya Traveler’s portfolio in 2026, the destination becomes part of a growing movement toward journeys that prioritize cultural depth, environmental awareness, and meaningful connection.

Amsterdam’s Cultural Renaissance Along the Canals

Following its milestone 750th anniversary in 2025, Amsterdam continues to dazzle in 2026 with a rich calendar of cultural events and sensory refinement. Spring brings the Tulip Festival (late March to mid-May) and the city-wide revelry of King’s Day (April 27). In May, food lovers flock to Rolling Kitchens (May 13–17), while August’s Grachtenfestival fills the canals with music. The Amsterdam Light Festival adds a luminous touch as winter approaches. Exhibitions at the Stedelijk, H’ART Museum, Eye Filmmuseum, and Fabrique des Lumières embrace immersive, interdisciplinary storytelling, reflecting the city’s forward-looking creative spirit.

Museum developments include the Zaanstad Amsterdam Museum (ZAMU), a contemporary art hub with installations spread across industrial buildings and a Piet Oudolf-designed wildflower garden just north of the city. While the Hartwig Art Foundation’s new museum is slated to open in 2028, it hosts temporary events until then. For a day trip, Rotterdam offers art lovers compelling attractions like the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Fenix Museum of Migration, which opened in 2025.

*Restaurant Vinkeles at The Dylan Amsterdam, housed in a former 18th-century bakery in the heart of the canal district.* (*Photo courtesy of The Dylan Amsterdam)*

Meanwhile, Amsterdam-Noord continues to evolve as a creative enclave, home to design studios, concept stores, and waterfront cafés. Culinary trends lean toward experiential intimacy and narrative-driven dining. At The Dylan Amsterdam, two-Michelin-starred Vinkeles offers moody interiors and seasonal French menus, while até presents a six-seat chef’s table. Bar Brasserie OCCO complements the stay with all-day dining in a stylish, contemporary setting and offers a creative High Wine tasting pairing four wines with four dishes. Reimagined by Studio Linse and Format Furniture in 2024, The Dylan anchors this renaissance with canal-side calm, Green Globe-certified hospitality, and curated access to the city’s evolving aesthetic.

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Accessible Travel, Skiing/Riding/Snow Destinations

Vermont Ski Resorts Stay True to Their Heritage, Community

December 22, 2025 krubin723

Skiing at Okemo Mountain Resort, now part of Vail Resorts. Vermont’s ski resorts have managed to remain true to their heritage and their community even as they upgrade their facilities and amenities © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, www.goingplacesfarandnear.com

What is most distinctive about Vermont’s ski places is how special, how different each one is, and how true to their heritage and communities they have remained – even those that have been acquired by the biggest resort companies in the industry, Vail Resorts and Alterra Mountain Company.

“Each delivers a Vermont experience in their own way,” notes Molly Maher, President of Ski Vermont.

Vermont’s magic is that each ski place reflects its community, is very much a part of the community, and is often the hub of a community. “Concerts, brew fests, family events are in Vermont’s DNA”, says Bryan Rivard, Ski Vermont’s Director of Communications. “Vermont’s ski places are where people can connect with family, friends and self and ignore the news.”

Here’s what’s happening on Vermont’s slopes this season:

Killington Mountain is the “Beast of the East,” and undergoing the biggest of transformative changes with a $60 million investment by its new, independent owners © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Killington Resort, the largest ski and snowboard destination in Eastern North America, announced a second year of significant capital investments totaling $60 million, under its new independent ownership group. An additional $22 million has been approved for on-mountain infrastructure improvements, building on the $38 million invested last year. (The group bought Killington from Powdr making it the largest independent ski resort in US by trails and lifts.) The Superstar Express Quad, which has been in operation since the 1987 season, is being replaced with a high-speed, six-person, Doppelmayr detachable lift. Skyeship Gondola cabins were replaced with 116 brand-new cabins manufactured by Sigma, The Learn-to-Carpet surface lift on Snowshed is being replaced to offer beginners an enclosed ride. Also, $6.5 million is going to upgrade the Snowdon Triple to a new fixed-grip, four-person chairlift. In addition to improving access to one of the mountain’s most popular zones, this project supports a broader, multi-year strategy to maintain a resilient network of fixed-grip lifts across the resort. The long-term goal is to ensure reliable lift access to all areas of the mountain, even during inclement New England weather. (90 of Skyeship Gondolas were auctioned at $2000 each to raise money for local charities and sold out in 20 minutes and $200,000 will be donated to small mountains “to keep skiing local in New England.”) An additional $6 million is going to a reimagined Jerk Jamaican Mountain Grill, quadrupling the capacity of this ski –in-ski out restaurant which has become one of the most popular on the mountain since opening in 2016; the Ledgewood Yurt, one of Killington’s distinctive slopeside dining experiences, was rebuilt to allow for more comfortable and reliable service.

The biggest transformation among Vermont’s major ski resorts is happening at Killington, “The Beast of the East,” which since being purchased from Powdr by an independent group, is seeing $60 million in capital investment including replacing its iconic Skyeship gondolas. While independent, Killington and its sister resort, Pico, are partners in the Ikon Pass © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“We’ve been thrilled at the level of investment from our independent ownership group over the past year,” says Killington Resort’s President and CEO Mike Solimano. “They have certainly lived up to their word, even increasing last year’s initial capital investment of $30 million to $38 million by the end of this summer. The flexibility of independent ownership has allowed us to act quickly and make timely adjustments to capital projects while always keeping the guest experience as our priority.”

*Skiing at Pico, Vermont, which along with its big sister resort, Killington Mountain, is a partner in the Epic Pass © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Pico is one of my favorite New England ski resorts – it is a just-the-right-size ski in/ski out mountain with lots of long intermediate runs that I love. Flexing its independent-ownership muscles alongside sister mountain Killington Resort, Pico comes into this season with updated snowmaking as part of the over 1000 new low-energy snow guns installed across its two ski areas. Permits are also in the process of being approved to replace the Bonanza Double at Pico, which has been in operation since 1965, with a new magic carpet surface lift.

Located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Killington Resort has earned its moniker “The Beast of the East” with four seasons of adventure spread across six peaks, plus Pico Mountain. Killington offers the most expansive snowmaking and lift system in the East, 200 trails and 92 miles of diverse snow terrain, including a world-class terrain park network and the longest season in the East. During the summer, Killington features a destination bike park with 30 miles of mountain biking trails, an 18-hole championship golf course, the family-friendly Snowshed Adventure Center, plus 15 miles of hiking trails. With elevated on-mountain dining, a plethora of après options and a commitment to investment, quality and the environment, Killington, now is a can’t-miss destination for the whole family. Killington is locally and independently owned, is planning to develop Great Gulf Village And while independent, both Killington and Pico are partners in the Ikon Pass (www.killington.com)

*Stratton Mountain Resort, now part of Alterra Mountain Company, is like skiing in a European alpine village © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Stratton Mountain Resort, which is now an Alterra Mountain Company resort and part of Ikon Pass, gives you the feeling of a European-style ski resort – an entire village at the base of its two mountains. The resort modernized and upgraded its American Express lift and added 265 snow guns, for 95% snowmaking and greater efficiency, especially on the popular Way Home and in the Main Base area and the Sun Bowl Super Trail. Stratton offers lots of activities including cross-country skiing, snowshoe tours, snow tubing and a sports center with a saltwater pool – and in summer, the Ikon Pass comes with two free bike park lift tickets. New this year at Stratton is bringing in Vermont Adaptive to replace its own adaptive program, which means more volunteers, a more robust program and new summer programming (Stratton.com)

Sugarbush Resort, Warren, is also an Alterra Mountain Company resort and part of Ikon Pass, last year initiated the app that tracks skiers vertical feet and promised to donate $50,000 to local cause (mental illness) if guests hit 1 billion vertical feet – they hit 801 million last season, but Sugarbush still donated the funds. This year, Sugarbush is repeating the challenge to raise money for the community. Sugarbush, encompassing 4000 acres, including 484 trail acres skiable, 53 miles of trails, and 16 ski lifts, completed a 20 year master plan, and this year has a new surface lift on Mt. Ellen to enhance the beginner experience. It also thinned out its glades. Also new this year is Sugarbush’ partnership with Vermont Adaptive. (sugarbush.com, 802-583-6300).

Vail Resorts (and its Epic Pass)now owns and manages Mount Snow, the biggest mountain resort closest to Long Island, Okemo Mountain (turning 70 this season), and Stowe (celebrating its 90^th anniversary). Each is benefitting with improved snowmaking.

*Learning to ski at Mount Snow © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Mount Snow, West Dover, now part of Vail Resorts and the Epic Pass, is the biggest mountain resort closest to Long Island. For over 70 years Mount snow has been giving generations of skiers and riders their first taste of sliding on snow—and they take snow seriously. With over 900 high-output, low energy snow guns, Mount Snow is capable of 83% snowmaking coverage via the world’s most powerful snowmaking system. Using state-of-the-art technology, Mount Snow has greater control over snow quality and consistency, offering visitors premium coverage even when natural snowfall is light (mountsnow.com, 800-245-7669).

*It’s 9 degrees but very cozy in the hot tub at the Jackson Gore Inn, Okemo Mountain’s ski in/ski out resort © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Okemo Mountain, Ludlow, Vt., now part of Vail Resorts and the Epic Pass, is one of my absolute favorite places to ski – I love the architecture and the scale of the mountain -big enough to have enormous variety, great views, long runs, but small enough to meet up easily and the long (forgiving) intermediate runs. We’ve stayed at the Jackson, its slopeside condo resort, (you can sit in the Jacuzzi when it is 9 degrees outside and watch people come down the slopes to the lodge). (okemo.com, 802-228-1600).

*Riding the bubble chair at Okemo Mountain Resort © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, built from the ground up around families, continues to invest in on-mountain improvements including more efficient snowmaking and a new snowcat to improve grooming across the area’s three mountains — Madonna, Sterling, and Morse — expanding corduroy perfection for all ability levels. But don’t let the focus on children fool you – Smuggs also has some of the steepest, most challenging terrain in the Northeast. Smugglers is one of the most family-friendly ski resorts anywhere with a packed schedule of activities and facilities and programming offerings off the slopes. Nordic Center and Activities introduced last season is back, including the popular Scavenger Hunt, Adventure Dinner, Moonlit Mile, and biathlon experiences – blending adventure, family fun, and Vermont charm. The ski school continues to be a cornerstone of Smuggs, with individual and multi-week programs tailored to any age or skill level (smuggs.com, 800-419-4615).

*Smuggler’s Notch has some of the most family-friendly programs and also some of Vermont’s most challenging trails © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Magic Mountain, Londonderry, is dedicated to being an old-fashioned, family-run, Vermont ski area with a dogged focus on keeping skiing affordable. Its Throwback Card – between a pass and a day ticket – costs $75 and gives a free day. Each year since being acquired by Jeff Hathaway, there have been improvements: this season, Magic is adding another beginner and instructional space in the base area, serviced by a 600’ handle tow surface lift and with lighting for night skiing and offers nighttime lessons and skiing in the Abracadabra area on Fridays, Saturdays and Holidays. The new, larger Abracadabra beginner area works in tandem with the Nelson Family Learning Area’s 100’ conveyor lift to bring a more graduated learning experience before novice skiers advance to the mid-mountain chairlift. Magic invested more resources into snowmaking this season, replacing 1500’ of snowmaking pipe for more efficient snowmaking in the lower portion of the mountain, from Black Line down to Show Off. This will allow for a more consistent snowpack on the lower mountain, on groomed terrain, and on high-traffic beginner and intermediate trails. In addition, new HKD tower and fan guns have been added at the new Abracadabra base and beginner area, dramatically improving snowmaking power and efficiency for the area as well as nearby lower Hocus Pocus and down into the Quad lift loading area. The improved snowmaking on beginner and intermediate trails allows Magic to extend its season into April. The small, family-owned ski area, is a member of the Indy Pass, and hosts bands and comedy nights, and promotes itself as a wedding venue (magicmtn.com, 802-824-5645).

Mad River Glen, Waitsfield, comes into the 2025-26 season with freshly painted lifts and season passes nearly or completely sold out. Known for its reverence for natural snow, the ski area maintains a fleet of groomers and other vehicles. Winter Naturalist hikes are again offered this year (madriverglen.com, 802-496-3551)

Bromley, Peru,has improved snowmaking this season with 9 new high-efficiency snow guns on Corkscrew and Lower Boulevard, new snowmaking pipe on East Side Steeps and the learning area and launched a new website to better reflect the mountain’s community feel. Newcomers will feel welcomed with a revamped First Timer Lesson Package and reconfigured rental shop exit which now sends visitors right out to the snow base area and skips the staircase (bromley.com, 802-824-5522)

*Skiing at Jay Peak which is upgrading its snowmaking © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Jay Peak has made a $500,000 investment in snowmaking upgrades, the first step in a 10-year upgrade plan. The upgrade will improve the connection of the Tramside to the Stateside of the resort, improving guests’ ability to easily navigate the mountain. Jay Peak became the first resort in Vermont to install fully automated HKD Klik hydrants that activate when the wetbulb temperature reaches 28 degrees, speeding up terrain openings and improving surface quality. Combined with this year’s expansion, Jay now operates the largest fully automated air-water snowmaking system in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (jaypeakresort.com, 802-988-2611)

*Skiing at Saskadena Six, the downhill mountain that is part of the historic Woodstock Inn & Resort (photo: Saskadena Six*

Saskadena Six, Pomfret (formerly known as Suicide Six), a family friendly ski area that is part of the historic Woodstock Inn, is gearing up for its 90th season (1936-2026), with celebrations all winter and new ski packages and annual events like the Saturday Live Music Series and the iconic Presidents’ Week Torchlight Parade (Feb. 14). The longest running snow sports school in the country, Saskadena Six offers private and semi-private snow sports lessons daily in 1, 2, and 3-hour increments, and uphill lessons are available. Some of the distinctive programs: you can rent the mountain on Mondays; Wednesdays are for Women to ski/ride; they offer adult development programs. Snowmaking has been improved this year, and the Saskadena Six team disassembled and removed the nearly 50-year-old Chair Two double lift (they plan to have an auction for a community fundraising event). Access to the Chair Two side, including the Milky Way terrain park, will continue via Duane’s Drop and The Gully trails. Saskadena Six is part of the Indy Pass (saskadenasix.com, 802-457-6661).

Meanwhile, Woodstock Inn & Resort Nordic Center this season has become one of just seven Nordic ski areas in the state with snowmaking ability. The purchase of an HDK fan gun will produce snow to keep skiers, snowshoers, and fat-tire bikers on the trails this winter. The cross-country center’s pilot last year included a month-long fan gun rental that proved to be essential when periods of the season lacked natural snow. This winter, the team will have the ability to make snow to keep 5m of core trails in the over-45km network covered, regardless of natural snowfall. These trails include out-the-door access from the Nordic Center Shop, along the base of Mt. Peg, and out to Knox Meadow (woodstockinn.com, 800-448-7900)

Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort is marking its 75^th anniversary as one of the first major cross-country ski resorts, by rebranding, making the connection clear it is founded and still owned and operated by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music.” (photo: Von Trapp Family Lodge)

Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort is marking its 75^th anniversary by rebranding from “Trapp Family Lodge” to “Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort,” making the connection clear that it is founded and still owned and operated by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music” and is way more than a simple chalet in the woods (their “woods” span 2600 acres). The first full service Nordic ski center in North America and still one of the most sophisticated, it offers 60 km of groomed cross-country and snowshoeing trails- the first to have snowmaking and is continuing to invest in snowmaking. The Outdoor Center team continues to add fun events like Sunday Fundays with guest speakers, a Poker Ski, treats on trails, and other fun non-competitive events for skiers of all ages. A total resort, it offers such marvelous experiences as horse drawn sleigh rides, a maple sugaring tour, daily (“Sound of Music”) tours, opportunities to meet their herd of cows and visit their award-winning brewery. They offer a seven-mile snowshoe trek by head-lamp (800 ft. climb) to the Slayton Pasture cabin for dinner (the chef is the cabin keeper) (700 Trapp Hill Rd., Stowe Vt. 05672, www.vontrappresort.com, 802-829-1516)

More than 400 volunteers serve athletes from all over the world at Vermont Adaptive’s current winter program locations including Pico Mountain, Killington; Sugarbush Resort/Mt. Ellen, Waitsfield; Bolton Valley Resort, Bolton; Saskadena Six Ski Area, Woodstock; Bromley Mountain, Peru; Stratton Mountain Resort, Stratton. (photo: Vermont Adaptive)

Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports, a nationally recognized organization that empowers people of all abilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay, added two Vermont ski resorts this season, Stratton and Bromley to its roster (Killington/Pico, Sugarbush, Bolton Valley, Saskadena Six, Mad River Glen) for total of 8 Vermont ski resorts offering winter programs. It is the largest year-round adaptive sports organization in the East. In addition to sports, year-round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical, and emotional/behavioral disabilities. Sports and recreational opportunities include alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports; kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, cycling, mountain biking, sailing, rock climbing, horseback riding, and veterans programs and retreats. . In 2024, Vermont Adaptive served over 1,200 participants through 5,300 outings. Since 2017, its Veteran Ventures Program has provided more than 9,000 activities and 35+ multi-day retreats to veterans and service members. “We are for every body – we level the playing field,” said Kim Jackson, Director of Communications and Marketing (vermontadaptive.org).

More information and trip planning help at skivermont.com.

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© 2025 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

Best in Travel, Destinations, Family Travel, Festivals and Events, Historic Hotels, Holiday Travel, Winter Holiday Travel

Cheeriest Places For Families to Celebrate the Winter Holidays

December 15, 2025 krubin723

*Nostalgic memories of a cozy family Christmas holiday at the historic Mountaintop Inn & Resort, Chittenden, Vermont© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, www.goingplacesfarandnear.com

Christmastime just invites nostalgia – I’m nostalgic remembering my favorite places where our family enjoyed spending the winter holidays together.

Favorite Destinations

Here are some of our favorite destinations to spend the holidays – because they are so festive, have so many activities and things to do:

*See how the Gilded Age rich celebrated Christmas in Newport, Rhode Island. Marble House is one of the historic Newport Mansions hosting tours © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Newport, R.I., which does the most fabulous “Christmas in Newport’ events each year, with the historic Newport Mansions decorated to the hilt and the delightful Cliff Walk, www.newportmansions.org, www.discovernewport.org, https://www.discovernewport.org/events/christmas-in-newport/)

Holiday happenings in Philadelphia © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Philadelphia offers an amazing array of magical light shows and activities. Winter at Dilworth Park around City Hall is where you find the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Cabin, and Wintergarten on the Greenfield Lawn. Other holiday markets are at Peddler’s Village and Christmas Village. Dazzling activities include: LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo, the Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm; the iconic Wanamaker Light Show & Dickens Village (thru Dec. 24); and Miracle on South 13th Street Holiday Light Display (neighbors on the 1600 block of South 13th Street between Tasker Street and Morris Street in East Passyunk have worked together every year for over three decades to create elaborate presentations that adorn their neighborhood 5-10 pm nightly through January). Also: Wild Lights at the Elmwood Park Zoo, A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens (Kennett Square, PA, thru Jan. 11), Holiday Garden Railway and Nighttime Express at Morris Arboretum & Gardens (thru Dec. 30). Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest on the Delaware River waterfront offers free skating (tickets required, pay-as-you-go games and amusement rides on the boardwalk,seasonal treats and hot drinks. Stay the night with the Visit Philly Overnight Package and score free hotel parking. More at https://www.visitphilly.com/holidays-in-philadelphia/.

Christmas choral concert, Longwood Gardens *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Greater Wilmington, Delaware holiday events include Yuletide at Winterthur (Winterthur.org), Holidays at Nemours Estate, A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens, Holidays at Hagley (hagley.org ), The Brandywine Railroad. (https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com/things-to-do/holiday-magic-in-greater-wilmington-delaware/)

Enjoy ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink on the National Mall, then cross the street to visit the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Washington DC is one of my favorite places to spend the holidays: there is so much to do and see indoors when you want to get out of the cold, as well as wonderful reasons to be outside. Seasonal Theater: ho ho ho ha ha ha ha (thru Dec. 21: Woolly Mammoth Theatre); A Christmas Carol (thru Dec. 31, Ford’s Theatre); The Washington Ballet presents The Nutcracker (thru Dec. 28, DC-themed production at the Warner Theatre features dancing cherry blossoms, Harriet Tubman and George Washington); Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical (Dec. 30-Jan. 4, 2026, National Theatre). Displays and Holiday Delights: Snowglow at the Dome at Hi-Lawn (thru Jan.4: a 50-foot heated rooftop dome atop Union Market hosts a visual and culinary holiday experience with state-of-the-art winter scenes projected overhead and festively decorated bars). DC Holiday Market (Dupont Circle, thru Dec. 23); DowntownDC Holiday Market (Penn Quarter, thru Dec. 23, with 115 local artisans); National Mistletoe (thru Dec. 23: aerial art installation by artist My Ly at Anthem Row); Winter Glow (select dates thru December: George Washington’s Mount Vernon is illuminated with brilliant lights set to holiday music.); Winter Wonderfest at Nationals Park (thru Dec. 24, a winter wonderland with snow tubing, curling, kids’ activities and adults-only ski chalet); CityCenterDC’s Holiday Tree (thru early January: a 75-foot tree at the luxury shopping destination). Enjoy ice skating at The Wharf, Georgetown and Canal Park and Winter Skate at the National Building Museum, a special indoor skating experience in the museum’s Great Hall, Dec. 27-Feb. 8. Maximize the value of DC and plan your trip at washington.org/winter.

What a delight to stay in a historic train car converted to a hotel room, at the Chattanooga Choo Choo, a member of Historic Hotels of America. Chattanooga is loaded with marvelous holiday festivities © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Fortunately, my favorite holiday destinations also have Historic Hotels of America members. I always seek members of Historic Hotels of America wherever I go, but especially at Christmas time because they never fail to make the holidays truly special. These hotels – so often known as “The…” – embody heritage, the character of the place and their walls seem to speak the stories of their past. Among our favorites for the holidays: The Sagamore on Lake George (skiing at Gore Mountain), Mohonk Mountain House (New Paltz, NY); the Red Lion (in Norman Rockwell-picturesque Stockbridge, MA, with skiing nearby at Jiminy Peak), Mountain Top Inn (Chittenden, Vt, near Killington); Omni Mount Washington (Bretton Woods, NH, skiing at Bretton Woods), Woodstock Inn & Resort (Vermont, skiing at its own Saskadena Six Ski Area and cross-country on property). If you prefer Christmas in warm weather: the Del Coronado (San Diego), the Chattanooga Choo Choo (TN), Jekyll Island (GA), Hermitage (Nashville), Union Station (Nashville), Heathman (Portland OR). And for a beach holiday with palm trees instead of pine: Vinoy Golf Resort & Spa (St. Petersburg, FL), the Don Cesar (St Pete Beach, FL), Colony Hotel & Cabana Club (Delray Beach, FL). More ideas at historichotels.org.

Fond memories of our family holidays at The Sagamore, Bolton Landing, Lake George, NY

Favorite Ways to Spend the Holidays

Winter in Lake Placid, New York. *Lake Placid, NY, affords incomparable memories of our ride on the Olympic Bobsled run © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Ski holidays are so terrific to bring families and friends together –you come in from the cold and some adventure on the slopes to a cozy condo, sit before a fire, join in some lovely activity around a fire pit and talk about your narrow escapes on the mountain. We so enjoyed our holiday stay in Lake Placid in New York’s Adirondacks, affording a truly unique total Olympic experience skiing and an immensely charming village. There are several charming, historic places like the Mirror Lake Inn, Lake Placid Lodge, the Whiteface Lodge. High Peaks Resort and we thoroughly enjoyed our holiday stay at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort (www.golden-arrow.com). (More ideas at lakeplacid.com and iskiny.com)

*Togetherness, hanging out in the hot tub in 9-degree weather after enjoying skiing at Okemo Mountain Resort* *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

But if you are looking for a ski in/ski out ski resort some of our favorites include Stratton Mountain, (Manchester, Vt), Smugglers Notch and Okemo Mountain in Vermont (more ideas at skivermont.com). Longer haul, we love Palisades Tahoe and Heavenly in Lake Tahoe, Calif.; Keystone Resort, Winter Park, Copper Mountain (Colorado) for their vibe, activities and, of course, outstanding skiing for the family.

*Excited to ski at Palisades Tahoe, Lake Tahoe, California © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

One we haven’t yet visited but have on the list as a must do is the Von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort (yes, that Von Trapp Family – you can’t get more Christmas-y than that – is famous for cross-country skiing, and so much more).

Dude ranches are really fun for the whole family and do a fantastic job in the winter – many even have their own ski slopes or tubing hills. A favorite for generations is Rocking Horse Ranch Resort, Highland, NY (https://www.rockinghorseranch.com/).

*Our family Christmas cruise to Key West and Cozumel © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Cruising is a great way for families to be together for the holidays. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises do a superb job for families, with spectacular entertainment, waterparks and other mind-blowing activities and entertainment on board and age-appropriate children’s activity programs and dining options. These floating resorts bring families together around activities and interests, dining and entertainment, adding in the incalculable delight of exploring new places. Our family treasures our multi-generational reunion on a Carnival cruise during Christmas week that called at Key West and Cozumel (Mexico), both such colorful places. Your travel agent can best advise on choosing a ship, a cruiseline, an itinerary; also visit cruisecritic.com.

*Excited to experience the Harry Potter attraction at Universal Studios Orlando © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Theme parks really deck the halls for the holidays, with parades, decorations, special activities. Our favorites include Universal Studios Orlando (loved our stay at the Loews Portofino), DisneyWorld (we had a really fun time at the Coco Key Hotel outside Disney, with its own waterpark and shuttle transport to the park), Busch Gardens Tampa (an outstanding zoo as much as it is a theme park) and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Close to home and an absolutely delightful theme park destination is Hershey Park (particularly great for families with younger kids).

*Remembering our holiday visit to World Disney World with grandparents when our kids were single-digits old © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Dazzling holiday celebrations are in full swing at 10 Six Flags Entertainment Corporation parks. WinterFest at Kings Island, joined by Knott’s Merry Farm at Knott’s Berry Farm and Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas were just named three of Top 10 Best Theme Park Holiday Events for 2025 by USA TODAY. Events are currently operating at Canada’s Wonderland: WinterFest; Knott’s Berry Farm: Knott’s Merry Farm; Six Flags Mexico: Christmas in the Park; Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Holiday in the Park; Six Flags Over Texas: Holiday in the Park; Six Flags Magic Mountain: Holiday in the Park; Kings Island: WinterFest; Carowinds: WinterFest; Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: NEW! WinterFest (a 2025 Best Theme Park Holiday Event nominee); Hurricane Harbor Oaxtepec: Christmas in the Park. Holiday escapes are available at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge (Lake George, NY): Holiday in the Lodge (thru Dec. 24; festive décor, themed activities, live entertainment and unlimited access to the indoor waterpark);Castaway Bay, Sandusky, OH (thru Dec. 31, meet and greets with Santa and admission to the indoor waterpark); Knott’s Hotel, Buena Park, CA, (thru Jan 4, 2026. holiday packages that include all-day drink wristbands, hotel parking, admission to Knott’s Merry Farm and a breakfast buffet option; and Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort, New Braunfels, TX. For event dates, links to tickets, visit www.sixflags.com or each park and resort’s website.

Make your own nostalgia. Happy holidays!

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Gift of Travel, Gifts for Travelers

Where to Find Best Gifts to Cheer Travelers, Adventurers’ Wanderlust

December 2, 2025 krubin723

*A waterproof camera like the Olympus Tough TG-6 greatly adds to the experience of snorkeling in the Galapagos with family © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, www.goingplacesfarandnear.com

What could be a better gift than someone with a wanderlust, a hunger to experience other cultures, heritage, landscapes, a curiosity to see the world than to give a gift that facilitates that happening.

The gift of travel can be everything from the trip itself (even create a registry so that lots of friends and family can contribute), to pre-arranging some experience or activity to enhance a trip: a dining experience; a spa visit; admission to a museum, attraction or cultural event; a cooking, baking or jewelry making class; a hot-air balloon ride; rock-climbing adventure; walking tour; bike rental, to purchasing a gift-card or gift certificate that can be applied to the bigger-ticket items and give flexibility for when. And what trip doesn’t require some special gear? And if you time it right, you might also be able to benefit from holiday savings, even on the more open-ended gift cards or certificates.

Gift cards can open up doors to travel, or take the sting out of the pinch to a traveler’s, couple’s or family’s wallet. Gift cards can be that extra spark that gets your loved one to finally depart on their bucket-list experience. And more and more travel companies – hotels and accommodations, cruises, tours, theme parks, sightseeing, spa visits, restaurants and dining, and even transportation companies from airlines to Amtrak to Uber to a Maine Windjammer Cruise – offer gift cards. The beauty is you can give the amount that works best for you and the recipient can choose the date, and the purchase can be made instantly. (And check if you can apply Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Travel Tuesday discounts.)

*Many airlines sell gift cards and vouchers © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You can purchase gift cards on many airlines: the Delta Gift Card is redeemable for any Delta Air Lines flight worldwide and for any Delta Vacations package that includes airfare, no expiration date (https://www.delta.com/us/en/gift-cards/overview); Southwest Airlines (no expiration date, fully transferrable, usable for passenger travel and vacations https://www.southwest.com/gift-card/); American Airlines (https://giftcards.aa.com/), United Airlines, British Airways, Air France, KLM, SAS.

Booking.com, hotels.com and others also sell gift cards.

*Historic Hotels of America members such as Mohonk Mountain House, New York, make it easy to buy gift cards and vouchers © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You can purchase gift cards for stays or amenities at Historic Hotels of America, Historic Hotels Worldwide, Beyond Green and Preferred Hotels & Resorts (all brands of Preferred Hotels & Resorts), through the iprefer.com. Gift Cards can be used for services, experiences, and stays at participating hotels and resorts in hundreds of destinations around the world. Gift cards do not expire. Purchase online at giftcards.iprefer.com.

The extraordinary collection of Historic Hotels of Europe makes it easy to purchase a gift voucher (https://historichotelsofeurope.com/gift-voucher/). Small Luxury Hotels collection also (https://slh.com/about-slh/gift-cards).

Prefer riding the rails to boarding flights? Amtrak gift cards are available in an amount up to $500 with no fees and never expire. Have it emailed or sent through the mail. Redeem for travel online, in the app, by phone or in staffed stations. (May not be used for onboard purchases) https://www.amtrak.com/giftcards

*Families appreciate gift cards to themeparks and attractions like Walt Disney World © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Theme parks can be a very, very pricey vacation for families. Gift cards can put the vacation in reach or enhance the experience. Disney’s gift cards can be purchased in denominations of $25 to $500 and used for “practically” all things Disney – theme park tickets, resort stays, merchandise, dining and experiences at Disney destinations, and redeemable at shopDisney.com, Disney Stores, participating locations at Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida, Disneyland® Resort in California, Disney Cruise Line®, and Adventures by Disney®. https://www.disneygiftcard.com/.

Spafinder.com, a compendium of resorts, wellness centers and day spas, makes it easy to purchase giftcards, and runs holiday discounts. https://myspafinder.spagiftcards.com/category/eGift-Cards

Give the Gift of Experience

Enhance your traveler’s upcoming trip by prearranging a dining experience; a spa visit; admission to a museum, attraction or cultural event; a cooking, baking or jewelry making class; a hot-air balloon ride; rock-climbing adventure; walking tour; bike rental. And what trip doesn’t require some special gear? (If you time it right, you might also be able to benefit from holiday savings.)

*The PragueCoolPass includes visits to the city’s most popular attractions, as well as museums and experiences you might not have considered © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You can pre-purchase a city-sightseeing pass that provides admissions to the most popular attractions and experiences in cities like Prague (PragueCoolPass.com); Paris (parispass.com); Amsterdam (iamamsterdam.com); Berlin (citypasses.eu); Dresden (getyourguide.com). The added advantage is that the passes help organize the itinerary, provide info on hours, exhibits, and most importantly, save the time of waiting on line and the anxiety of being shut out and even save money over purchasing admissions individually.

*The ParisPass makes it easy to pre-reserve a visit to such popular attractions as Le Louvre, the most visited museum in the world © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Go City sells passes in 25 destinations from major metropolises like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, Singapore, London and New York to oceanfront oases like Sydney and Oahu, on 1,500 attractions, tours, and activities worldwide, saving up to 50% over purchasing individual tickets, connected on your smart phone (GoCity.com, 800 887 9103). CityPass (https://www.citypass.com/) has pass programs in numerous US cities and Toronto.

*What an experience! Hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, Turkey © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Arrange for your travelers to drive an exotic car, learn to fly, rock climb, skydive, bungee jump, take a hot-air balloon ride. Virgin Experience lists some 5000 different experiences in 122 regions from 600 “best in class” partners. Categories include: Gift of Broadway, Gifts for Him, Her, Couples, Kids; Celebrations; Food & Wine Gifts, Adventures Experiences and other listings. Easy return, no expiration, free exchange (https://www.virgingifts.com/us)

Gift certificates from Broadway.com can be redeemed for tickets to any Broadway or Off-Broadway show currently playing in New York City (https://www.broadway.com/gift-certificates/). You can also purchase “show-stopping holiday gift” theater tickets at discounts at todaytix.com and theatermania.com.

*Context Travel offers curated walking tours in 60 cities including Athens © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Context Travel offers personal walking tours with experts in 60 cities across 6 continents. Its gift cards can be used for audio guides, walking tours, pre-trip talks, day trips, and shore excursions. Gift cards are redeemable for hundreds of tours and experiences in any city, can be e-delivered immediately or at a future date and can be personalized with your message https://www.contexttravel.com/gift-cards/new

*Gifting a family safari in Africa may be out of the question, but how about a day at Safari West, Santa Rosa, California? © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Also consider gifting some of the really special experiences, like Zookeeper for a Day at Busch Gardens (www.buschgardens.com), a safari experience at Safari West, Santa Rosa, California (800-616-2695, safariwest.com, https://safariwest.com/plan-your-experience/wild-gift-cards/),a sleepover “Night in the Museum” experiences at places like National Air and Space Museum, International Spy Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Cincinnati Museum Center, California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, or family memberships.

*Skiing Palisades Tahoe. Consider purchasing a lift ticket, rental, lesson © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

For the skier/snowboarder, consider purchasing lift tickets, lessons, rentals, perhaps even a multi-day, regional or local pass (EpicPass.com, IkonPass.com, snow.com, ski.com). Get Ski Tickets is an online marketplace to purchase date-specific discounted lift tickets, lessons, rentals, group lift tickets and season passes (https://www.getskitickets.com/, 970-233-7040, info@getskitickets.com) and gift certificates (https://www.getskitickets.com/gift-certificates/).

And cruises may advertise as being “all-inclusive” but shore excursions are costly add-ons. Pre-purchase a shore excursion from Shore Excursions Group which offers 4,000 tours in 300+ ports worldwide, with something for every kind of cruiser, from first-timers to seasoned globetrotters, at 40 percent less than purchasing from the cruiseline (https://www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/)

Travel Gear

Travelers also appreciate the gear, special clothing, photo equipment that would vastly enhance a trip experience (expedition, voyage, journey), but may feel guilty about the extra indulgence or simply tapped out- items like sunglasses, hiking poles (one of my favorite things!); hiking/skiing socks; safari hat; packing cubes; day pack; chargers; rain poncho, a camera lens or binoculars can make a real difference.

*Gear up for camping, hiking, adventuring © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Our favorite go-to outfitters (especially when you catch holiday deals, sales and closeouts): REI (makes it easy to find just the right gift for travelers, adventurers, top trending gifts, gifts by activity or price, www.rei.com/s/gifts-for-travelers; sale items https://www.rei.com/c/travel-gear/f/scd-deals, 800-426-4840; members have full year to return, non-members have 90 days); LL Bean, 888-610-2326, llbean.com; Sun & Ski (gift cards available; can shop deals, promotions, purchase gift cards, chat with an expert, low price guarantee, https://www.sunandski.com/c/sun-snow-sale, sunandski.com, 866-786-3869); Eastern Mountain Sports (gift guides for men, women, kids, stocking stuffers, https://www.ems.com/collections/gift-center, 888-463-6367, ems.com); Tennis Express (gift guide online, TennisExpress.com), Bass Pro Shops, www.basspro.com; Patagonia (Patagonia.com); Paragon Sports (paragonsports.com).

Footwear is critical in such things as hiking, climbing. Check out Keen footwear (keenfootwear.com, gift guide, https://www.keenfootwear.com/pages/gift-guide) and Zappos (zappos.com)

Great stocking stuffers so appreciated by travelers are socks for hiking, running, endurance, skiing, biking, hunting, work and lifestyle: Bombas (I love that they say they give a pair to homeless for every pair they sell; get 25% off, https://bombas.com/, https://bombas.com/pages/holiday-gift-guide) and Darn Tough (www.darntough.com, https://darntough.com/pages/sock-gift-finder).

And of course, luggage and packs are always appreciated: travelpro.com, Luggageonline.com, and www.nomatic.com.

What trip doesn’t involve photos! Go beyond the cell phone (or at least, purchase the lens enhancements that give the best of both worlds)! B&H Photo consistently has best inventory, prices and holiday specials, efficient delivery, excellent customer service, delivery and return policies – think about memory cards, a point-and-shoot camera for hiking/biking; a mirrorless that packs easily but gives great quality; a long lens for that safari; a waterproof camera for that snorkeling/scuba diving trip (www.bhphotovideo.com), 800-606-6969, 212-444-6615).

Memories: I adore my Aura, is an electronic photo frame where you upload from your cellphone photos and videos that change at a speed you select, which I was gifted. It’s fun to load the few favorites from a trip (not the whole album), and when they come around, you get to experience of that moment all over again (auraframes.com)

*Renew the pleasure of sharing a tasting at Imagery Winery in Sonoma, California by having a bottle shipped © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear*

Taste of Travel: Another way to transport a travel experience is to arrange for food or wine from a winery or destination that the recipient visited or yearns to visit. Imagery Estate (imagerywinery.com) and Gundlach Bundschu Winery (gunbun.com) in Sonoma were two favorite travel experiences for us and make it easy to gift their wine. Send the taste of New York City by shipping fresh bagels and smoked fish from an iconic deli like Zabar’s or Russ & Daughters. Maine Lobster Now is one of the vendors that can overnight live lobster from Maine’s docks to your door (https://www.mainelobsternow.com). Goldbelly is an online marketplace for regional and iconic foods from restaurants, bakeries and artisans across the U.S.

*Send the travel experience home: ship wine from a favorite wine-tasting experience (Imagery Petite Sirah wine label art by Laini Nemett)*

Memberships Have Benefits

*Discovering enchantment and learning at the American Museum of Natural History © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Gifting family memberships in a favorite museum, zoo, aquarium, preserve, historic site or attraction gives a sense of “ownership” and encourages multiple or multi-day visits (you don’t have to travel far away to be transported in place and time) as well as giving access to benefits – from special access to events and openings, discounts and promotions, magazines. In addition, these visits lay the foundation and trigger interest in traveling to the origin sites and destinations. Also, shopping the museum stores not only offer really special gifts but support the mission: American Museum of Natural History (members enjoy free admission, special access and previews of new exhibitions, and discounts on purchases with member ID (get $15 off membership with code MEM25); the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Chicago Museum of Art, any and every important museum, hall of fame, attraction, zoo such as the Wildlife Conservation Society which operates the Bronx Zoo and Brooklyn Aquarium among others (www.wcs.org). The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a terrific online catalog, gift finder help, you can even shop by artist (https://store.metmuseum.org/gift-guide, members save 30%)

Memberships have additional benefits: Belonging to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum or Schenectady’s Museum of Science brings free or reduced admission to 300+ museums and science centers nationwide through the Association of Science and Technology Center’s ASTC Passport Program and the Empire State Museums Reciprocal Program (https://www.astc.org/membership/find-an-astc-member/passport/)

Smithsonian Institution not only has an excellent store and catalog of excellent expeditionary trips (Smithsonianstore.com), but I treasure the Smithsonian Magazine, which also provides membership benefits, access to gifts; subscribe to the magazine and get gift subscriptions to share with someone else, gift price $19.99, https://subscribe.smithsonianmag.com/gift). National Geographic inspires you to pursue your own expedition and also has links to great expeditionary gear; there is also a National Geo Kids edition, to sow the seeds for lifelong adventure. (https://ngmdomsubs.nationalgeographic.com/

*Parks & Trails NY uses its annual 8-day 400-mile Cycle the Erie canalway trip to advocate for creating recreational trails © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Also check out the memberships and gift possibilities at: Sierra Club (produces an excellent catalog of trips, sierraclub.org); Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (also check out the trail shop for gear like jerseys, trail guides and such, railstotrails.org), Parks & Trails NY (which hosts the annual Cycle the Erie 8-day, 400-mile camping/biking trip, ptny.org); Audubon Society; Nature Conservancy, National Wildlife Federation (nwf.org); World Wildlife Federation (wwf.org) and Kennedy Space Center (www.kennedyspacecenter.com). (Memberships typically come with publications, too, that delight the whole year through.)

On that note, travel is aspirational and a subscription to a travel magazine helps inspire, inform, build the dream, the bucket list and the plan: Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler (holiday sale plus tote, https://www.cntraveler.com/v2/offers/cnt313, cntraveler.com), National Geographic Traveler and National Geographic; there is also a National Geo Kids edition. (https://ngmdomsubs.nationalgeographic.com/

Fantasy Camp!

There are any number of fantasy camps to satisfy, well, every fantasy.

Want to play baseball like a major leaguer? There are baseball fantasy camps with teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Atlanta Braves (mlb.com).

Join players from the gold medal winning 1980 USA Hockey Team for this annual **Miracle On Ice Fantasy Camp,** in Lake Placid, NY – host city of the historic 1980 Winter Olympic Games – and skate and compete in the Herb Brooks Arena where USA conquered the Russians © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Join players from the gold medal winning 1980 USA Hockey Team for this annual Miracle On Ice Fantasy Camp, in magnificent Lake Placid, NY – host city of the historic 1980 Winter Olympic Games. Skate and compete in the 1980 Rink – Herb Brooks Arena where USA conquered the Russians and shocked the sports and political world (actual Miracle on Ice players usually participate!). (https://lakeplacidolympiccenter.com/todo/miracle-on-ice-fantasy-camp/)

Space Camp, an educational camp on the grounds of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center museum near NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama, provides residential and educational programs for children as well as adults on themes such as space exploration, aviation and robotics. There are camps for every age group, even adults! (www.rocketcenter.com/SpaceCamp, camps@rocketcenter.com, 800-637-7223).

Also: Broadway theater (Broadway Fantasy Camp, broadwayfancamp.com), Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp, an interactive musical event that takes place in various locations worldwide involving various Rock Stars on various dates (rockcamp.com; gift cards available, https://gift-cards.rockcampevents.com/)

For many, being able to participate in important science research is also a fantasy. Earthwatch Expeditions makes it possible to support important research into global challenges from climate change to human-wildlife coexistence to sustainability, while engaging local communities. It offers more than 40 field research expeditions around the world, with opportunities for teens and adults; no prior experience needed (Earthwatch.org, info@earthwatch.org).

Also Ecology Project International (https://www.ecologyproject.org/travel-programs); GVIUSA (https://www.gviusa.com/blog/how-to-join-research-expeditions-around-the-world/); and the award-winning wildlife conservation and citizen science NGO Biosphere Expeditions (https://www.biosphere-expeditions.org/availability).

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Attractions, Christmas holiday travel, Cultural travel, Festivals and Events, Holiday Travel, Holidays in New York, Museums and Exhibits, New York City travel

Holiday Celebrations, Cultural Attractions Turn NYC Into Winter Wonderland

November 25, 2025 krubin723

*Winding up Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Santa officially ushers in the holiday season in New York City © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

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

New York City’s holiday season festivities officially kick off with the 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, heralding in a cornucopia of festive performances, winter exhibits, holiday light displays and general good cheer. Join the anticipated 8 million local and global visitors engaging in the city’s Winter Wonderland.

“New York City comes alive during the holidays like nowhere else in the world, and this year the excitement is even greater as we celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary,” said New York City Tourism + Conventions’ President and CEO, Julie Coker.

Here are some of the festive performances, winter exhibits, holiday light displays to celebrate the holiday season in New York City:

Holiday Enchantments

*The 99^th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade officially ushers in the holiday season in New York City © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Nov. 27: The annual New York City celebration is returning for its 99th edition, featuring impressive helium balloons, creative floats, clowns, mesmerizing performance groups, popular Broadway musicals, celebrity appearances and much more. The parade begins at its traditional starting point on West 77th Street and Central Park West, ending in front of Macy’s Herald Square flagship store.

*The night before the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade thousands line up for an opportunity to see the Great Balloon Inflation © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

But the enchantment begins the night before the big event with the Great Balloon Inflation: queue up with thousands of others on 79^th and Columbus Avenue to see your favorite characters.

*Puppeteers with illuminated animals bring special delight to the Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights, Select Nights, select evenings (Nov. 21-23, 28-30, Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-23, 26-31, Jan. 2-4). Holiday Lights is a walk-through event where you journey through six immersive wildlife lantern trails featuring geographic-themed regions and the magical Forest of Color. More than 400 lanterns representing 100 animal and plant species connect visitors to the real wildlife and wild places that the Wildlife Conservation Society works to protect. Enhanced this year with Freeze Zone, featuring massive snow tube slides, talking snowmen, and a snowball wall, and more interactive elements, puppetry in The Enchanted Sea. There are also music and light performances, nightly ice-carving demonstrations, Wildlife Theater puppet adventures, festive treats including s’mores roasting and holiday drinks, bug carousel and holiday train,. Tickets are required for entry and must be reserved in advance. Ticket sales for Holiday Lights start at 3pm. Lights go on and lantern trails open at 4:30pm. Tickets available online at BronxZoo.com/Holiday-Lights, information at bronxzoo.com/holiday-lights. (See: Wander the World With Wonder and Joy at Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights)

Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Nov. 21–Jan. 4, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn:Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden returns this holiday season, transforming the Garden into a glittering winter trail and an enchanted forest in the heart of Brooklyn. Now in its fifth year, the event features dazzling light installations, reimagined art, music and special attractions, highlighting the Garden’s winter beauty.

Holiday Train Show, Nov. 15-Jan. 11, Bedford Park, The Bronx:Now in its 34th year, the New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show fills the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory with 200 twinkling landmark replicas made from natural materials, as model trains weave through iconic New York City scenes and over bridges. Visitors can also enjoy an illuminated outdoor mountainscape. Special Holiday Train Nights are a magical after-dark experience.

*Holidays at Rockefeller Center © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Holidays at Rockefeller Center, December: From seeing the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree; ice skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center Presented by Chase Freedom; enjoying a sweet treat at Glace or Ralph’s Coffee; or finding a gift at retail destinations including Catbird, McNally Jackson and FAO Schwarz, Rockefeller Center is a holiday destination. Visit the Top of the Rock observation deck for 360-degree views and photo opportunities with Santa.

Holiday Performances

*Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular turns 100 this year © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, Nov. 6–Jan. 4:The beloved holiday tradition returns to the iconic stage of Radio City Music Hall for its 100-year anniversary. One million people come each holiday season to experience its stunning costumes, joyful music, precise choreography and innovative performances. Multiple shows daily.

ROB LAKE MAGIC with Special Guests The Muppets, Nov. 6–Jan. 18:Renowned illusionist Rob Lake brings his jaw-dropping magic to Broadway this holiday season, joined by Kermit the Frog and friends, who add their signature humor and charm to the spectacle. Together, they promise a one-of-a-kind holiday performance blending astonishing illusions with beloved Muppet magic.

A Christmas Carol at PAC NYC: Nov. 23–Dec. 28:PAC NYC presents an immersive, intimate staging of A Christmas Carol, crafted by Tony Award-winning artists playwright Jack Thorne and director Matthew Warchus. This magical retelling wraps the audience around the action as Ebenezer Scrooge journeys through past, present, and future, brought to life with dazzling staging, moving storytelling and beloved Christmas carols.

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet, Nov. 28–Jan. 4:Experience the classic George Balanchine The Nutcracker, from the glowing Christmas tree to swirling snow and enchanting characters set to Tschaikovsky’s iconic score. The season concludes on Jan. 4 with a special sensory-friendly performance featuring adjusted lighting and sound designed for audiences with sensory processing challenges such as autism.

Spotlight: The New York Nutcracker, Dec. 18 & 19: Lincoln Center’s holiday lineup features Spotlight: A Night at the Atrium, a playful twist on The Nutcracker blending burlesque, puppetry, comedy and dance for a dazzling offbeat celebration of the season.

Holidays with the New York Philharmonic, Dec. 10–Dec. 20:Conductor Jane Glover leads the chorus of Music of the Baroque and a stellar cast of soloists in Handel’s Messiah. Families enjoy the holiday favorite Home Alone on the big screen as John Williams’sscore is performed live. Plus, the Philharmonic’s beloved Sounds of the Season matinees return, offering a family-friendly sampler of festive music.

The Magic Flute, Dec. 11–Jan. 3:A holiday tradition, Mozart’s enchanting fairy tale returns in the Met’s abridged, English-language production by Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor. With some of opera’s most beloved melodies, colorful sets and costumes and dazzling puppetry, this family-friendly staging offers a magical experience for audiences of all ages. On Dec. 14 ticketholders are also invited to a free Holiday Open House before the performance, featuring special activities for families.

Festive Concerts at Carnegie Hall, December:Highlights include the Orchestra of St. Luke’s Chamber Ensemble performing Corelli and Vivaldi, the Princeton Nassoons’ seasonal program, the Oratorio Society of New York’s 151st consecutive Messiah, the Christmas Night Opera Gala with stars like Sondra Radvanovsky and Thomas Hampson and Concert of the Future: A Christmas Dream, a candlelit immersive blend of classical music and meditative sounds.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at New York City Center, Dec. 3–Jan. 4:Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater under the leadership of new Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack. Audiences is presenting classic works from the Ailey repertory including the touchstone of inspiration Revelations, an anthem to resilience and joy.

The Brooklyn Nutcracker Presented by the Brooklyn Ballet at The Theater at City Tech, Dec. 6–7 and 13–14:The Brooklyn Nutcracker reimagines the classic ballet through the lens of Brooklyn’s diverse cultural tapestry, blending iconic characters with hip hop, pop and lock and bohemian flair. This vibrant journey travels from Victorian Flatbush to modern-day Brooklyn, with stops at landmarks like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and a Flatbush Avenue subway platform.

Holiday Festivities at The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, Dec. 13–Dec. 31, Morningside Heights:St. John the Divine presents a rich lineup of concerts, including the Joy of Christmas concert featuring Bach’s Magnificat and beloved carols and its traditional New Year’s Eve Concert for Peace, this year featuring Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Additional musical highlights include organ recitals, special evensong performances and seasonal programs that blend world-class artistry with the Cathedral’s cherished holiday traditions.

Winter Exhibitions, Cultural Happenings

Holiday Celebrations in Historic Richmond Town, throughout December, Staten Island: Historic Richmond Town’s holiday season kicks off with a free tree lighting celebration on Dec. 5, followed by “Christmas in Historic Richmond Town” Dec. 6–7, with festive shopping, live history demonstrations and seasonal treats; Candlelight Tours on Dec. 12–13, showcasing centuries of yuletide traditions; and a Holiday House tours on select dates throughout Dec..

*Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection on view at The New York Historical © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection, through Feb. 8: The New York Historical displays its traditional model trains, toy stations, and miniatures are illustrating the design evolution from the early 20th century to the era of World War II. Families can explore the objects with a special scavenger hunt, and train-themed storytimes take place on select dates.

The Origami Holiday Tree, Nov. 24 throughout the holiday season: An annual New York City tradition for decades, the American Museum of Natural History’s Origami Holiday Tree showcases 1,000 hand-crafted origami models created by local, national and international artists.

*The Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Creche on view at The metropolitan Museum of Art © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche, Nov. 25–Jan. 6: A New York City tradition, The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche display showcases a beautifully adorned tree with a nativity scene at its base. The display features 18th-century Neapolitan figures, generously donated in 1964 by American artist and collector Loretta Hines Howard.

A Christmas Carol: The Manuscript, Nov. 25–Jan. 11:Every holiday season The Morgan showcases Charles Dickens’s original manuscript of A Christmas Carol in J. Pierpont Morgan’s Library. Bound in red goatskin leather, the manuscript was originally given to Dickens’s solicitor, Thomas Mitton, before being acquired by Pierpont Morgan in the 1890s.

Holiday Lights, Markets, Ice Skating, Activities

Holiday Under the Stars and Broadway Under the Stars at The Shops at Columbus Circle, throughout the holiday season:The Shops at Columbus Circle sparkle with “Holiday Under the Stars,” a breathtaking display of 300,000 lights and 44 glowing stars. Guests can also enjoy “Broadway Under the Stars,” a series of free performances from some of Broadway’s most celebrated shows, complete with intimate cast Q&As.

Hudson Yards presents its 6th annual spectacular lighting display, “Shine Bright at Hudson Yards Presented by Wells Fargo” featuring 2 million twinkling lights, with 115 miles of string lights, 725 evergreen trees, and the iconic 32-foot hot air balloon centerpiece suspended in the Great Room of The Shops and Restaurants at Hudson Yards. NEW: ten 11-foot-tall Toy Soldier statues lining The Shops on Level 1 and six free, pop-up performances. Nov. 28 – Dec. 23: Take photos with Santa.Dec. 1- 11:Festive Holiday performances by the Youth Orchestra of St. Lukes.

Chelsea Market and Pier 57 are decked out in holiday décor, offering festive photo ops, holiday gift wrapping, and gifts from diverse vendors such as Chelsea Market Baskets, featuring gourmet gift sets; Posman Books, perfect for literary gifts and unique stationery; and Pearl River Mart, with an array of eclectic home goods, cultural items, and one-of-a-kind treasures. . Platform by the James Beard Foundation (Platform by JBF), a state-of-the-art show kitchen, event space, and educational hub for outstanding culinary arts programming, will host a series of festive dinners including Dinner: Feast of the Seven Fishes with James Beard Award Winner® David Standridge (12/10), Oh, Hanukkah! Eden Grinshpan’s Celebration of the Festival of Lights (12/11), Collab Dinner: A Winter Solstice Celebration Featuring Chef Nasim Alikhani with Nilou Motamed (12/17), and Collab Dinner: Navidad Boricua: The Puerto Rican Holiday Table (12/18).

*Festive shopping at new York City’s Holiday markets like the Winter Village at Bryant Park © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Festive shopping at New York City’s Holiday Markets, Throughout the holiday season, Manhattan & Brooklyn: Sip hot cocoa and shop for holiday gifts at the city’s signature outdoor markets: Union Square Holiday Market, the Holiday Shops at Winter Village at Bryant Park and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market. Opt for indoor browsing at the Grand Central Holiday Fair, Brooklyn Flea and Chelsea Flea. On the Upper West Side the Grand Holiday Bazaar offers indoor and outdoor shopping, while the Brooklyn Borough Hall Holiday Market in Downtown Brooklyn features 100 vendors showcasing locally made goods.

Wollman Rink, through March, Central Park: Wollman Rink celebrates a landmark 75 years with special programming, family-friendly activities and celebratory events.

*The rink at Bryant Park is New York City’s largest free-admission rink © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The Rink at Bryant Park, through early March:Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park is New York City’s largest free-admission ice-skating rink, where you also enjoy a vibrant holiday market with 180 shops, cozy rinkside bar and food hall at The Lodge, holiday tree.

The Rink at Rockefeller Center, Rockefeller Center b/w 48th and 51st St. the iconic rink beneath the city’s most famous Christmas Tree.

Winterland Rink at The Rooftop at Pier 17, 89 South St. is New York City’s only outdoor rooftop ice rink. The day-to-night venue offers panoramic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and East River.

New Year’s Festivities

*Seeing the iconic Ball Drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve is something that everyone should do once © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop: The Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop is an iconic New York City experience – watching its descent in person on New Year’s Eve is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime way to ring in the New Year.

New Years Eve concert at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, Morningside Heights presentsits traditional New Year’s Eve Concert for Peace, this year featuring Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

New York Road Runners Clubs New Years Eve party at the bandshell in Central Park features a Midnight Run with fireworks *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

NYRR Midnight Run in Central Park: Kick off 2026 with the NYRR Midnight Run, welcoming the new year with energy and excitement. As 2025 draws to a close, the countdown starts at 11:59 pm, and a spectacular fireworks display at midnight signals the start of the four-mile race.

Coney Island Polar Plunge, Coney Island, Brooklyn:Every New Year’s Day, the Polar Bear Club and daring participants dive into the icy waters at Coney Island. Spectators are welcome to watch as hundreds of thrill-seekers plunge into the freezing Atlantic Ocean. The event is free to attend, though participants are encouraged to make donations to support local community organizations in place of an entry fee.

Seasonal Tours

The NYC Christmas Holiday Tour with Free Dessert, created by Empire Tours & Productions, is a two-hour guided walk that begins at 764 Doris C Freedman Pl, under the General William Tecumseh Sherman Monument, and ends at Bryant Park Winter Village (42nd St & 6th Ave), winding through Fifth Avenue’s luxury storefronts, Rockefeller Center’s iconic Christmas Tree, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Radio City Music Hall. Along the way, hear captivating stories from expert local guides and emkpu a complimentary festive dessert from Myzel Chocolates. The tour captures the warmth and wonder of New York at Christmas, blending sparkling lights, historic tales, and film-famous stops like the Home Alone 2 locations at the Plaza Hotel and Gapstow Bridge. Tours daily, Nov. 24-Jan. 4, at 10:30 am and 4:30 pm. Prices start at $35 for adults (13–64), $34 for seniors and military, $29 for youth (7–12), and children under 6 join free. (https://tourofnyc.com/christmas-holiday-walking-tour/)

Holiday Lights & Movie Sites Tour with On Location Tours, Nov. 28–Dec. 31: Discover iconic landmarks and hidden spots seen in beloved holiday films such as Elf, Home Alone 2 and Scrooged with On Location Tours. Departing from Columbus Circle, the tour features festive stops at Bloomingdale’s, Rockefeller Center and the famous ice-skating rink at Bryant Park.

Christmas in New York with Romancing Manhattan Tours, November–December: This custom tour features a private guide on Fifth Avenue, a two-hour Rockefeller Center visit, and a sunset trip to the Top of the Rock. Optional add-ons include ice-skating with an instructor, a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall, premium Rockettes tickets and a luxury dinner, curated by a concierge.

For all there is to do and see in New York City, visit nyctourism.com.

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