A Family Adventure: Exploring Child-Friendly Wineries In Mornington Peninsula

BY  Sibashree May 19, 2025

Every time I have been to Zion National Park, adventures, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities have made me make a promise to come back.  A summer trip to Zion National Park is always special, and 2025 is no exception. In 2024, Zion National Park had 5 million visitors, the second-highest number among the country's national parks.  Furthermore, during the Memorial Day Weekend in 2024, 92000 people visited this national park.  So, as we approach the Memorial Day Weekend in 2025 and the summer season in Zion is about to start in full swing, the park authorities have taken several measures.  Also, there are a few changes and additions in the park attractions to make your summer trip to Zion more enjoyable. Whether you're into rock climbing, exploring the breathtaking views, or hiking in Zion National Park, you can be ready for a mesmerizing experience. Also, don't forget to consider accommodations like The Riv At Zion, which provides comfort and convenience near the park's entrance.  Moreover, this season, you can explore many features and additions in the park and in this Tour and Travel Guide, we are going to talk about them.  A Summer Trip To Zion National Park: Know The Quick Facts Before Packing Your Bags Established: 1919 Area: 148,016 Acres Elevation: 1117 to 2660 Meters Standard Pass: $20-35 Pet Safety: The water of the Virgin River in the park has cyanotoxins and cyanobacteria. Cyanotoxins are very harmful to dogs and other pets. So, keep them on a leash during a summer visit to Zion National Park.  Hours Open: 24/7 (All the facilities in the park have different opening and closing hours.) Know About The Operating Hours Of Various Facilities In The Park  Have a look at the table below to know the operation hours of the facilities in the park. The data here is updated on 7th May 2025.  Park Facilities Hours Of OperationZion Canyon Visitor CenterInformation Desk8 AM to 5 PMZion Forever Park Store8 AM to 7 PMZion Canyon Wilderness DeskAllow at least 20 minutes to get a permit8 AM to 5 PMZion Human History Museum10 AM to 5 PMKolob Canyons Visitor Center8 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 5 PM Furthemore, before planning your summer trip to Zion National Park, you must note that the Zion Nature Center Junior Ranger Station is closed for the season. The Kolob Canyons Wilderness Desk also remains closed.  Moreover, oversized vehicles can pass through the Zion Mountain Carmel Tunnel between 8 AM and 4:30 PM.  How To Reach Zion National Park And Where To Stay? Zion National Park is situated in southwestern Utah, and the closest airport is St. George Regional Airport, about 50 miles away.  You can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park from there.  Furthemore, you can fly into Las Vegas, Nevada, or Salt Lake City, Utah, and enjoy a scenic drive to Zion. Talking about accommodations, nearby resorts offer a blend of comfort and convenience, and they are just a short drive from the park entrance.  Do you want your stay to be more adventurous? You can give the luxury hotels and resorts a miss and choose camping or staying in cozy log cabins.  Exploring Zion National Park: Things To Do During A Summer Trip To Zion National Park The first thing you can do is hike to Angels Landing. This is my favorite route for breathtaking views. Furthermore, the Narrows will allow you to wade through the Virgin River between steep canyon walls. You can join a ranger-led hike, take a photography tour, or even try rock climbing with experienced guides.  If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider scenic drives or shuttle tours to take in the beauty of Zion without strenuous effort.  Additionally, the park has recently upgraded facilities and expanded shuttle services, making it easier to navigate its popular areas.  What's New In 2025? Your Summer Trip To Zion Will Now Be More Exciting In 2025, Zion National Park unveils several exciting updates to enhance your visit. Noteworthy upgrades include improved facilities and expanded shuttle services, making it easier to access popular park areas.  New interactive exhibits at the Zion Human History Museum offer fresh insights into the park's rich cultural and geological background, providing a more immersive experience for visitors. Additionally, the park introduces a range of events and programs like stargazing and nature workshops to engage and educate visitors.  Things You May Have To Face During A Summer Trip To Zion National Park Considering the record number of visitors to Zion National Park in 2024, you must be ready to face the following situations during your summer trip to Zion National Park in 2025.  Heavy traffic congestion in the Zion National Park, and especially in the Springdale Area Temporary and intermittent closures of the vehicle entrance station in the east and south of the park Long waiting time while boarding the shuttle from Zion Canyon and Springdale Long queues at the visitor center, trailheads, and park entrances Tips For A Successful Summer Trip To Zion National Park To maximize your enjoyment in Zion, avoid peak times by visiting on weekdays or early mornings, especially during the summer.  Spring in Zion National Park is beautiful, and the fall season also offers pleasant weather and fewer visitors, providing a more serene experience.  1. Pack The Right Gear For Your Summer Trip To Zion National Park Make sure to pack the right gear for your activities. Sturdy hiking shoes, ample water, sun protection, and layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures are essential.  If you plan to hike, the Narrows, water shoes, and a walking stick will be necessary to navigate the riverbed.  A camera is also a must to capture the park's stunning landscapes. 2. Stay Hydrated And Stay Updated About The Weather During Your Summer Trip To Zion Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas to avoid heat exhaustion.  Familiarize yourself with the park's shuttle schedule and routes to streamline your travel within the park.  Keep a map handy and know your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Lastly, check for any trail updates or weather advisories from park rangers before heading out daily.  It’s The Right Time To Plan A Summer Trip To Zion National Park With the latest upgrades and new activities, there's never been a better time to visit.  From exhilarating hikes to serene drives and educational programs, every moment in this remarkable national park will contribute to a memorable and fulfilling trip.

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 29, 2020

With many natural sights, monuments, and other adventurous places, Flagstaff is the largest city in northern Arizona. Trust me, you’re going to find a lot of exciting things to do in Flagstaff. I visited Flagstaff last year along with several other best places in the USA.   It was a truly exhilarating journey from Las Vegas to Zion National Park. Apart from this, I also had a great time on the Maryland trip.   Now, in this post, you will find many attractive places with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, etc.   Best Things to Do in Flagstaff   The best place to start your Flagstaff trip is from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District. Know the other exciting things to do here.   1. Exploring Historic Downtown and Railroad District  https://www.instagram.com/p/C-GKpULKpQx/ When you plan your Flagstaff trip, I would recommend that you start the trip from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District.   I’m sure you’re going to enjoy the beauty of the town walking along the streets. You will find historic buildings that are now being converted into hotels, restaurants, breweries, etc.   Even at night, you’ll find a crowd in the town. I remember when I came back from a movie show, some college students were out on the street. You can book a day or two of your stay here to enjoy the farmer’s market, local events, entertainment shows, shopping, eating, and drinking.   The town allows easy access to many other tourist spots in Flagstaff. A wonderful park is located within walking distance of the visitors’ center.  2. Visiting Wheeler Park is One of the Best Things to Do in Flagstaff  https://www.instagram.com/p/Ctj4PRiK9Ts/ Take a short walk from the visitor center of the historic downtown to get to this park.  Visiting Wheeler Park is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.   The park hosts a variety of events, such as regular park runs and weekly art festivals like Park Art, Hullabaloo, and more.   The park is full of trees that give you a green space to relax and enjoy. When I visited this park, a lot of people came with books to read, but my friends and I enjoyed a picnic in the park.   3. Grand Canyon Day Tour  This place is out of town, so you can book a day trip to discover different historic buildings and hike in different locations. If you have time, then a day trip to the Grand Canyon is one of the great things to do in Flagstaff.  You’ll find the El Tovar Lodge and the Desert View Watchtower on this day trip. You’ll get a chance to have lunch and explore the Navajo Trading Post. Usually, it’s best if you’re traveling in a group.  4. Walnut Canyon National Monument  Exploring the Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. You might be thinking, why is the name of the monument called so? The reason is simple: the name is because this national monument is full of Arizona Walnut trees.  This monument is in the East of Flagstaff, which has many types of plants. The canyon has more than 500 species of plants, and you’ll find various wildlife in the forest.  Another interesting part of the monument is the loop trail, which descends along the canyon. There are several other trails around the Walnut Canyon, but the loop trail is the most attractive one.   Along this way, you will discover 25 historical limestone cliff residents where the Sinagua people were staying in the past.   5. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument  Have you ever heard of a volcano eruption? The Sunset Volcano National Monument is a place in Flagstaff where you can discover the eruption of volcanoes.   Around 900 years ago, a massive volcano eruption shook the city. In this eruption, a significant volume of lava was released and dispersed over 4 miles and coated 800 + acres of land in ash and rock fragments.  It’s been a long time since this eruption happened, but today, you can still find evidence of the violent and destructive events that occurred. The crater gives you a perfect hiking trail to explore the three lava flows.   However, certain areas of the crater are not permitted to be explored for safety reasons. Head to the visitor center, where you can learn about the volcano eruption and how it affected the region. Many visitors recommend exploring the crater, which is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.  6. Wupatki National Monument  Among other National Monuments, the Wupatki is one of the most famous monuments in America. However, this monument is abandoned but safeguarded by the Hopi clans. They tell the lifestyle and stories about their ancestors. To their beliefs, people at that time died here and remained as spiritual guides.   If you want to discover the rich American history, then visiting the Wupatki National Monument is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff. Ancient Pueblo people built this monument.    It has three buildings and 29 structures in an area of 35,000 acres (about half the area of Athens, Georgia). I didn’t get a chance to explore the place with the rangers when I visited. But if your luck is good, you might have an opportunity to discover the monument with the rangers. You can hike to some parts of the monument.  7. Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Chairlift  https://www.instagram.com/p/C75FlFhpVmS/?img_index=1 Riding the scenic chairlift to see the Arizona Snowbowl and the San Francisco Peaks is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. If you’re planning your trip in the autumn (that’s from October to December), you’ll enjoy the scenic chairlift ride. In this season, the landscape of Arizona showcases different colors and is truly mesmerizing.  When you reach the top, you will gain some information about the place from the rangers. They offer you knowledge on various topics such as the habitats of the region, geology, and history. Apart from this, you can enjoy adventurous activities like snowboarding, walking on the trails, and skiing.   8. Exploring the Lowell Observatory is one of the Unique Things to Do in Flagstaff  Lowell Observatory offers you the opportunity to get a view of space through telescopes. Do you know that this is the place where Pluto was discovered?   Here, you will find the original telescope that was used to discover the planet Pluto. Now, it is a working research center that is open to visitors to learn about space, the universe, galaxies, etc.  I would say visiting the Lowell Observatory is one of the most exciting things to do in Flagstaff. The observatory also hosts different special programs that allow you to meet an astronomer or attend different events, such as meteor showers.  9. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cv-CXpCL-tn/ Do you like adventurous or challenging activities? Taking a rope drive on the zip lines in the Forthfill Country Park will pump your adrenaline. This spot will give you a thrilling experience by suspending between the trees.   I had a fear of heights, and it was really challenging for me, but I really enjoyed the rope drive. Trust me, this is one of the most adventurous things to do in Flagstaff, in my opinion.   If you travel in a group or alone, you can enjoy different adventure courses, from walking on the ropes to swinging between the trees. This place offers a different level of activities for adults and kids.  10. Camping At Lockett Meadow  This is the most beautiful place to visit on the list of things to do in Flagstaff. This is a fantastic place in the Coconino National Forest, inside Flagstaff. If you want to visit this place, one day is not enough and, fortunately, you can enjoy camping here.  The best time to visit this place is all year round because you’ll have a different experience in every season. You’ll find the ash tree leaves turning yellow in the summer, and the whole place looks amazing. Meanwhile, in spring, the entire meadow is full of flowers.  11. Museum of Northern Arizona  https://www.instagram.com/p/C2nVq3esjJ_/?img_index=1 This is a place where you can learn about the history of Flagstaff. The museum is built on lava stone. It allows you to discover the dinosaurs, the geology of Northern Arizona, and the ancient people who lived there. In my opinion, this is a place that you should never miss if you ever travel to Flagstaff.   Here, you will learn about the history, biology, arts, geology, and many other things about Northern Arizona. Along with that, the museum has a central garden that shows different species of plants in the area. Visiting the museum can give you some knowledge about this place. It is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.   Why Is Flagstaff Called a Dark City?   Flagstaff became the official “Dark City” in 2001. On 24th October 2001, it was named the “First International Dark Sky City” because of the unforeseen work it did to preserve the natural resources of the night sky.   The preservation effort was to ensure economic security and public safety. Also, it was instrumental in ensuring Flagstaff’s position as a “premiere astronomic site” in the world. In addition, it was an expression of community values.   You can even watch the Milky Way in Flagstaff, and the view is stellar. If the weather is good, you will see the stars shooting one after another.   Bon Voyage!  Hopefully, you’ve found some useful travel ideas and unique things to do in Flagstaff. From my experience, I recommend that you plan your trip from October to December.   To explore every place on the list and have a memorable experience, plan your tour for 10 to 15 days (about 2 weeks). As I mentioned above, you’re going to explore the National Monuments, a few parks, and more. Hiking, snowboarding, skiing, and rope driving are some of the outdoor activities you’ll enjoy on your Flagstaff tour.  Also read Beginner Tips For Your First Camino de Santiago. Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience.

BY  Ankita Mar 29, 2024

San Diego, often known as the Finest City in America, is a spirited coastal metropolis. It is quite popular for its year-round sunshine, stunning beaches, and diverse array of activities. From sipping cocktails with ocean views to mastering kickflips at renowned skate parks, this city offers something for everyone.  This article is all about enjoying San Diego to its fullest. Whether you're a local looking to explore your backyard or a visitor seeking adventure, here are some must-try activities in this strategic destination. Beach Hopping:  Beach hopping is a must-do activity in San Diego, which has more than 70 miles of pristine coastline. Each beach has its charm and activities, from the popular shoreline of La Jolla and Mission Beach to the hidden jewels of Windansea and Sunset Cliffs.  There are other beaches, too, like Del Mar, Imperial Beach, and Mission Beach, which are worth visiting. Whether you're into sunbathing, surfing, or simply strolling along the shoreline, San Diego's beaches have something for everyone.  Mixology Classes:  For those looking to up their cocktail game, San Diego mixology classes provide an excellent opportunity to learn the skill of creating a perfect drink while socializing with other lovers. These classes allow participants to learn the art of mixology under the supervision of expert bartenders.  From mastering traditional cocktails to making innovative creations, these programs offer a unique experience for cocktail enthusiasts of all skill levels. Mixology is actually a better hobby to pursue because you can learn new skills along with enjoying your trip.  Farmers' Markets:  Embrace San Diego's farm-to-table culture by visiting one of its many farmers' markets. From the bustling Little Italy Mercato to the laid-back Ocean Beach Farmers Market, these markets offer a feast for the senses.  Sample freshly harvested fruits, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet treats while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and supporting local farmers and producers. Farmer’s market is not too popular, but one can easily consider it a hidden gem owing to the magic it follows.  Hiking Trails:  Hiking paths in San Diego County provide an opportunity to explore the county's different landscapes. From the steep terrain of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to the panoramic panoramas of Cowles Mountain, there are routes for all skill levels.  The city has uneven terrains, rusty mountains, and chipped streets- all ideal for hiking. So, don’t let your trip go to waste. Lace up your hiking boots, bring lots of water, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds the city.  Skateboarding:  San Diego is considered the cradle of skateboarding culture, giving it a haven for skaters of all skill levels. Test your abilities at world-class skate parks such as Ocean Beach Skatepark and the historic Chicano Park Skatepark.  Whether you're a beginner who is taking skateboarding lessons or a seasoned pro perfecting your tricks, the city's skateboarding scene offers endless opportunities for adrenaline-fueled fun. Water Sports:  Take advantage of San Diego's coastal location by trying your hand at various water sports. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are numerous activities available, including surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. Rent equipment from local outfitters or sign up for lessons to improve your skills while enjoying the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean. Water sports in and around California are excellent adventures. And when it comes to an outstanding location like San Diego, there’s nothing you want to miss out on.  Gastronomic Adventures:  Indulge your taste buds in San Diego's thriving culinary scene, which boasts everything from gourmet dining to casual street food. Sample fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, feast on authentic Mexican cuisine in Barrio Logan, or embark on a culinary tour of the city's diverse neighborhoods. With its fusion of flavors and international influences, San Diego is a paradise for food lovers. Sunset Cruises:  Finish your day on a high note by taking a sunset sail in San Diego Bay. Relax aboard a yacht or sailboat while admiring the stunning views of the city skyline, Coronado Bridge, and neighboring sites.  Sip champagne, eat hors d'oeuvres, and soak up the golden hues of the setting sun for an amazing experience. Take your spouse along with you as you embark on a beautiful journey filled with romantic experiences.  Live Entertainment:  Immerse yourself in San Diego's vibrant nightlife by checking out its live entertainment venues. From intimate jazz clubs and indie music venues to lively dance clubs and comedy clubs, there's no shortage of options for evening entertainment. Catch a live performance by local musicians, laugh out loud at a stand-up comedy show, or dance the night away to the beats of talented DJs. Golf Course: Visiting Torrey Pines  Last but not least, do not forget to visit the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course. This championship course is extended to large areas of land. If you are a sports enthusiast, visit this diverse terrain and take your friends and travel partners along with you.  Visit Museums The Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego is something you shouldn’t miss. Lying in a flagship location, this museum building was actually designed by Irving Gill, a renowned architect. It was initially homemade for Ellen Browing Scripps, the famous philanthropist. However, it was changed into a museum as soon as 1941 kicked in. At present, MCASD consists of several art collections that must be visited when someone is in San Diego.  The Bottom Line San Diego has a wide range of activities to suit everyone's interests and preferences. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, this coastal paradise has something for everyone.  So, grab your sunscreen, sense of adventure, and appetite for exploration, and get ready to experience everything that San Diego has to offer—from cocktails to kickflips and everything in between. With that, here’s an end to this comprehensive guide. Make San Diego your next favorite destination, and trust us, you will not regret it. Thank you for reading till the end. I hope you like it.  Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) 4 Unique Ways Of Enjoying Your Holiday In San Diego San Diego Fishing Adventure: Private Charters For Every Angler