Are you thinking about visiting Montana National Parks but are not really sure about which ones should you visit while you are there? Well, there is no need for you to worry. I have you covered!
There are a number of national parks that are located in the United States. Whether you want to check out the national parks in Wyoming or Zion, the list is endless. But if you want to try out a new place, Montana might just be the right one for you!
In this article, I will be focusing extensively on the best national parks in Montana that you must visit when you are in the states. So, if that is something that you want to know, keep reading the article till the end…
Best Montana National Parks That You Must Visit!
The fourth-largest state in the US, Montana, lies in the northwest of the country on the border with Canada. It is pretty sparsely populated. It boasts delightfully diverse landscapes. The west is very mountainous. While the east’s endless plains and prairies are only occasionally punctuated by breathtaking badlands and bluffs.
Hidden away among its wild and remote realms are incredible wildlife species. There are moose, grizzly bears, and mountain lions all inhabiting its numerous national parks and state parks.
Are you planning to travel to the States and Montana, to be specific? You need to check out this list of the best Montana National Parks that you need to visit in 2023:
1. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area sprawls over a vast zone and straddles both Montana and Wyoming. It is home to stunning scenery and landscapes. The area is made up of two delightfully distinct districts. It is a treat to explore, with a wealth of recreational activities to try out.
The main feature of the park is the breathtaking Bighorn Canyon. It towers over the large lake and roaring river of the same name. Its craggy cliffs form a formidable backdrop to the tranquil waters below, which offer fantastic fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Hiking and camping are very popular. However, the area also has a range of archaeological and cultural treasures to check out. As well as being home to historic ranches, a third of its area is located on the Crow Indian Reservation. Part of the park is a range for wild horses. Visitors can learn all about its history, geology, and nature at one of the site’s two centers.
2. Big Hole National Battlefield
The Big Hole National Battlefield is the location of the battle that took place on August 9th and 10th during Nez Perce Flight of 1877. By early August, over 800 nimí·pu· (Nez Perce) and over 2,000 horses were passing peacefully through the Bitterroot Valley after crossing Lolo Pass into Montana. Their leaders believed the military would not pursue them even though many had premonitions warning otherwise. When the nimí·pu· arrived at ?ıckumcılé.lıkpe (known today as Big Hole National Battlefield) on August 7th, they did not know the military was close behind them. On the morning of August 9, 1877, U.S. troops surprised the sleeping nimí·pu· with a dawn attack on the encampment. And that is where and when everything happened that made this area a national historic place.
The park’s visitor center offers museum exhibits, a film, and a book sales area. The award-winning film Weet’uciklitukt: There’s No Turning Back, Battle at Big Hole provides an introduction to the Nez Perce Flight of 1877 and the battle that took place at this site. The film is shown throughout the day and is close-captioned. Audio and braille guides are available upon request.
Big Hole National Battlefield is one of the 38 sites that make up the Nez Perce National Historical Park. Together they tell the story of the nimí·pu· (Nez Perce). These sites are spread over much of the traditional homeland of the nimí·pu· in present-day Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Staff are located here at the Big Hole National Battlefield, as well as at the visitor center in Spalding, ID, and at the Bear Paw Battlefield. To visit all of the park sites could take a substantial amount of time and cover many hundreds of miles.
3. Glacier National Park
Home to stunning scenery, landscapes, and nature, the gorgeous Glacier National Park can be found in the northwest of Montana on the border with Canada. Founded in 1910, it protects a vast swathe of unspoiled wilderness and fully deserves its nickname, the ‘Crown of the Continent’.
Very mountainous, it is home to two rugged ranges, with vast valleys and rocky ravines left behind by the gigantic glaciers after which the park is named. Dotted about these damaged yet delightful landscapes are over 130 twinkling turquoise lakes, with gorgeous waterfalls and sparkling streams found here and there.
As over half of the park is coated in verdant forests, it is a great place to go wildlife watching with moose, mountain goats and grizzly bears inhabiting its isolated areas. With scenic trails weaving their way amidst the towering trees and mountains and cozy campsites to stay at, Glacier National Park really is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in the whole of the States.
4. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
Next on the list of the best Montana National Parks is Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site. Between 1828 and 1867, Fort Union was the most important fur trade post on the Upper Missouri River. Here, the Assiniboine and six other Northern Plains Tribes exchanged buffalo robes and smaller furs for goods from around the world, including cloth, guns, blankets, and beads. A bastion of peaceful coexistence, the post annually traded over 25,000 buffalo robes and $100,000 in merchandise.
Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site and its visitor center in the Bourgeois House are open daily throughout the year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Days. The Trade House, including the trade room and the clerk’s office, is open seasonally.
There are a number of things that you can do here. One of them is visiting the Fort Union’s Trade House, which was one of the most important buildings at Fort Union. It was in the Reception Room where Tribal leaders met with the American Fur Company Traders to discuss the terms of the trade and also where stories were told, and small feasts were held.
Apart from that, you can also plan a great trip with your kids as they can become a Jr. Ranger and Jr. Trader at this historic National Park.
5. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
Located almost equidistant between Missoula and Bozeman is the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, which commemorates the cattle industry and cowboy culture of the American West. Lying on the banks of the charming Cottonwood Creek, this colossal living history ranch now offers a fascinating look into the frontier cattle era that shaped the nation.
Founded in 1862 by the Canadian fur trader Johnny Grant, the ranch was later bought as well as expanded by the successful cattle baron Conrad Kohrs. At its zenith, over 50,000 head of cattle roamed about his ranch, which sprawled as far as the eye could see.
Nowadays, visitors can tour around its historic buildings and see the ranch in operation. Blacksmiths as well as cowboys use techniques that would have been used in the 19th century.
6. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Lying about an hour’s drive to the east of Billings, this moving national monument and memorial commemorates the famous Battle of Little Bighorn. It was here on June 25 and 26, 1876, that General Custer made his ‘last stand’ and lost his life alongside many of his cavalry at the hands of the local Native Americans.
At the sprawling battle site, visitors can learn all about the epic encounter that came to symbolize the clash of cultures. The Native Americans fought to protect their nomadic way of life and stop themselves from being forced onto reservations. It was a short but momentary victory for the Native Americans against the ever-expanding advances of the US Army.
Through interesting and informative tours, you’ll learn all about the battle as well as its aftermath. Moreover, you will also learn about the legendary Lakota leaders Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull as well. In addition, you can visit the numerous markers and memorials scattered about what is now part of the Crow Indian Reservation.
7. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
Also considered to be one of the best national parks in Oregon, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through the homelands of more than 60 Tribal nations. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the Pacific Ocean. Follow the trail to find the people, places, and stories that make up the complex legacy of the expedition.
Boasting lots of large limestone caverns and stunning stalactites as well as stalagmites, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park makes for a spectacular sight. Located just under an hour’s drive to the northwest of Bozeman, it is one of the most popular parks to visit in the state.
First documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, after which it is named, the caves cover a substantial underground area. It has illuminating tours that take you around its most fascinating features. Lit up by flickering candles and fairy lights, its subterranean sculptures and formations are a treat to explore.
Above ground is equally delightful. The state park’s lovely woods and shimmering streams lend themselves perfectly to hiking. It also offers mountain biking, and camping, with fishing and canoeing also on offer.
8. Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail
Glacial Lake Missoula, a 3,000 square-mile body of water encircling Missoula, Montana, was a result of an ice dam in northern Idaho. It happened at the conclusion of the last Ice Age, between 18,000 and 15,000 years ago. Floodwater came out when the dam burst, traveling across Washington, Oregon, and the Columbia River before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The Ice Age Floods affected the people and terrain of the Pacific Northwest, profoundly.
The majority of geologists thought that glaciers and streams slowly eroded rock formations to create Washington’s Channelled Scabland. Geologist J Harlen Bretz postulated that cataclysmic floods were responsible for the formation of the Channelled Scabland after finding geologic data that contradicted this theory.
Bretz’s theory was initially mocked, but it was later proven correct thanks to new technology like satellite photography. By the 1970s, everyone agreed that the Ice Age Floods were to blame for the ravaged terrain of the northwest United States.
Today, the terrain is littered with remnants of these Ice Age Floods. It includes massive basalt coulees, dry falls, and big boulders. They have traveled hundreds of miles, high water lines, as well as tremendous current ripples. The Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail includes spectacular examples of cataclysmic flood geology, breathtaking landscapes, and locations for scientific study.
9. Lone Pine State Park
Lying just to the southwest of Kalispell is the lovely Lone Pine State Park. It looms over the city and Flathead Valley. As it is home to wonderful nature and scenic trails, it is very popular with locals and tourists. It also has plenty of recreational activities on offer.
Founded in 1941, the park boasts delightful landscapes, with flower-filled meadows and lush forests coating its hilly confines. Reaching 1,110 meters in height, there are more than ten kilometers of trails to explore. It also has fabulous vistas visible from its upper reaches.
Besides hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding along its peaceful paths, visitors can go wildlife watching and birdwatching. In addition, there is an archery range and volleyball court to try out. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are on offer in the winter months.
10. Bannack State Park
Once a thriving mining town, Bannack became a ghost town as the seams of glittering gold ran out, and so did the prospectors moved on. Set in a scenic yet remote spot in the southwest of the state, the eerie yet enticing ghost town is now under protection as part of a state park.
Nestled away among Montana’s majestic mountains are more than 50 decaying buildings for visitors to explore, with log cabins lying alongside a school, hotel, and Methodist church. Although they have long been abandoned to the elements, most of them are in remarkably good condition. As such, it makes for an unsettling experience wandering around the empty streets.
One of the best times to visit is in July, during the ‘Bannack Days.’ Re-enactors transform the town into what it would have been like during the gold rush. The rest of the year, visitors can take tours of Bannack or rent bikes and set off hiking from the nearby campsite.
Giant Springs State Park lies just to the northeast of Great Falls on the banks of the Missouri River. It has sparkling springs all around, from which it derives its name. It is a top-rated place with many recreational activities on offer. That is mostly due to its proximity to the city and its peaceful and picturesque nature.
Blackfeet Nation has used Giant Springs for centuries. Moreover, it is one of the largest freshwater springs in the States. First described by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, its waters originate in the Little Belt Mountains. It took around 3,000 years to travel the 100 kilometers underground to surface again at the springs.
Besides visiting the springs, visitors can wander around the park’s gorgeous green spaces. They explore the scenic shoreline of the river. As well as its picnic areas and playgrounds, it also offers some great fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
12. Yellowstone National Park
Last but definitely not least, we have another immensely famous option. It is a very popular and widely visited Yellowstone National Park.
Most of Yellowstone lies within the wilds of Wyoming. Some picturesque parts of the popular park sprawl over into Idaho and Montana. An absolutely incredible place, it is awash with astounding natural sights. There are mighty mountain towers above sweeping valleys, verdant forests, and roaring rivers.
The oldest national park in the world came to be in 1872, delighting and dazzling countless generations ever since. Its diverse and dramatic scenery is spectacular. However, it is most known for its more than 10,000 geysers as well as hot springs. There are also thermal features dotting its craggy confines.
Of these, one of the most popular is the Grand Prismatic Spring due to its kaleidoscopic colors. Old Faithful never fails to amaze with the staggering size and scale of its spurting spring. Moreover, you cannot miss out on Yellowstone National Park. It has lots of wildlife residing within its remote realms and exquisite hiking, camping, and boating on offer.
Wrapping It Up!
In case you were searching for the best as well as must-visit Montana national parks, I hope that this article has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your queries and suggestions in the box below.
Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.
Canada is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, featuring mountains that resemble a winter wonderland and stunning lakes located in various regions.
It has a natural beauty that many people appreciate, and fortunately, anyone can see these works of nature by train.
Unlike driving, rail journeys are often far more relaxed, where you can get uninterrupted views. Someone else will be doing the driving, and all you have to do is soak in the majestic scenery while remaining comfortable in your seat.
You can be an adventurer for days and discover majestic waterfalls in faraway mountains, and everything is in full color.
See the jagged peaks of the Rockies and revel in the tranquil lakes of Banff. The train routes are going to take you into the parts of the country that can be inaccessible by car.
It can be your first time as a tourist in Canada, or you’re wondering if you can see the country from a new perspective, and regardless of the reason, a Canadian train vacation is going to help you unwind and experience an enjoyable journey.
Why Is A Canadian Train Vacation Special?
Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Trains are very immersive in Canada, and you can be face-to-face with the country’s grandeur that no plane ride can match.
Enjoy the entire trip by looking at the amazing landscape and not just focusing on arriving at a destination.
Every mile is meant to be savored, and many travelers may often find themselves spotting eagles overhead or catching glimpses of the Northern Lights.
Enjoy a community while you’re on board the train and share meals with fellow passengers between stops.
These trips are great for fostering a connection and encouraging slow conversations. It’s a travel experience that feels human, and everything is often unhurried and full of wonder.
1. About The Rail System
Canadian trains are going through rails that connect major cities located in remote regions. This is going to give you a scenic view that many may not experience.
There are rugged coastlines that feature high cliffs and dramatic rock formations. These Canadian train trips often glide past the snow-dusted mountains and stop in historic towns so you can take a lot of pictures.
Travelers are going to find it to be an ideal option during their vacation because they won’t need to do long drives.
Also, the trip is very flexible, and you can choose multi-day expeditions or opt for shorter two-day regional routes depending on your schedule.
Many travelers may be looking for luxury tours with gourmet meals, while others may prefer a more budget-friendly option that can still provide them with incredible views.
Regardless of your travel style, you can definitely find a journey that fits what you want with the right tours.
2. Top Routes On Canadian Train Vacation That Showcase Canada’s Natural Wonders
Many luxury trains are going to show you the diverse landscapes that Canada offers. When you embark on this journey, you can see towering mountains and then bustling cities that are changing colors according to the season.
Many routes offer access to cultural landmarks, but it will still depend on you on the type of adventure that you want to explore.
Some will let you spend around 11 days on the tour, and you can board the train for a scenic view. Watch the transformation of forests and prairies and head to lakes to appreciate the alpine beauty better.
Go to national parks and ride gondolas with a specific itinerary from the experts. See more information about the location of these companies, where you can book the tours below:
What Are The Benefits Of Choosing A Canadian Train Vacation?
If you’re still wondering whether a train trip is right for you, consider the many advantages it offers:
Stress-Free Travel: You won’t have to deal with traffic or go through a lot of airport security lines. In trains, you just sit back and enjoy all the views that you’re seeing.
Eco-Friendly Option: This kind of traveling often produces lower carbon emissions compared to driving long distances by automobile.
Unmatched Scenery: Get access to large windows with open observation decks and take pictures of the diverse landscapes that you’re seeing.
Flexible Itineraries: Select a schedule that matches your vacation days. Opt for longer routes if you want to explore more of the country.
Planning The Perfect Rail Journey For The Ultimate Canadian Train Vacation
Credit: VIA Rail Canada
Now, before rushing to book your ticket, you need to determine the type of experience that you want in the first place. You might want a luxurious escape where budget isn’t a problem.
Fortunately, there are train trips that can give you that along with a scenic adventure. Others would want to discover the charm of Eastern Canada on a budget, and if so, compare your options and do your research.
Plan well and learn about the changing seasons. Summertime can generally offer lush greenery, while wildlife can also be viewed from the train windows.
In the meantime, winter routes are often magical, and you can discover snow-covered trees and a cozy train interior that’s perfect for sipping hot cocoa.
Why Is It More Than Just A Vacation?
Overall, this is more than a trip, but it’s a storytelling where each town has a tale to tell. Each moment on the train becomes a wonderful memory of quiet mornings or bonding with your loved ones.
Watch the sparkling stars from your window and revel in the things that nature is capable of.
These Canadian trips are going to allow you to reach destinations that you might have only dreamt about previously.
They can give you a chance to rediscover the art of traveling without rushing.
Savannah has recently been in the limelight for great reasons. At the just-concluded 2024 Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) Tourism Industry Excellence Awards, Savannah in the Round has been conferred the Outstanding Commitment to the Industry award.
Savannah in the Round is a popular music and arts festival and with it winning the laurel, Savannah will get a great kick in the city’s art tourism.
However, the unique things to do in Savannah are much beyond only nurturing the musical and arty aspects. For the longest time, it has been a hub of history enthusiasts, especially the ones eager to know about American history.
There is no wonder that Savannah and Chatham County have created an economic impact of $4.7 billion, thanks to tourism in 2023.
"What we are most pleased about is our visitors are staying longer and spending more money when they are here. That tells us that the overall Savannah visitor experience, when it comes to lodging, dining, and other activities, is meeting the needs and expectations of our customers. A goal the hospitality community strives for every day."Joseph Marinelli, President and CEO, Visit Savannah
So, do you want to explore the promising tourism landscape of Savannah? Try the following activities on your first visit.
Most Unique Things To Do In Savannah (Don’t Miss Out On The Tour And Travel Tips)
Tourism in Savannah is crucial for the community as it has sustained 30,000 jobs annually in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Further, the insights from locals and industry insiders have confirmed that the tourists now choose local businesses and hotels in the city. To be more specific, tourists here prefer to eat at locally-owned restaurants and buy stuff from local retail businesses.
“With two-thirds of respondents intentionally favoring locally-owned restaurants and retail offerings, we as industry leaders must acknowledge and harness this trend.”Todd Costin, General Manager Hyatt Regency Savannah and Visit Savannah Chair
So, are you ready to explore the true flavors of Savannah while visiting the iconic landmarks? Here are the best things to do in Savannah, curated and approved by the Tour and Travel expert team.
1. A Day Trip To Tybee Island
A day trip to Tybee Island is one of the best things to do in Savannah if you want a relaxing holiday. The Little Tybee Island is the hidden gem of this trip, with only boats taking you to this pristine destination.
Along with being a picturesque beach destination, Tybee Island also has places of attractions like the Tybee Island Light Station, Marine Science Center, etc.
When on Tybee Island, don’t miss a visit to Fort Pulaski, a place of great historic significance between Tybee Island and Savannah.
2. Visiting The Bonaventure Cemetery
Operating Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
The 100-acre Bonaventure Cemetery is among the best attractions for literary and music enthusiasts. Names like Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken rest here.
Further, the neighboring Greenwich Cemetery has the grave of Danny Hansford. For the uninitiated, the murder of Danny Hansford was the main inspiration behind Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, the bestseller by John Berendt.
Tour And Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle and bug spray while visiting this cemetery.
3. Visiting The River Street
River Street in the Waterfront District of Savannah is one of the most prominent travel destinations in the city. It runs along the Savannah River and many people also take a cruise ride from Hilton Head to River Street to take a stroll and explore the city’s history.
However, the main attractions here are the souvenir shops. Further, you can enjoy serious gastronomic delights at the local restaurants.
Moreover, sipping your favorite drink at the old cotton warehouses while enjoying the river view is the most relaxing experience one can expect.
4. Visiting The Old Sorrel Weed House
https://www.instagram.com/p/C0igAyIMSLe/?img_index=1
Operating Hours: 11 AM to 11 PM (Monday to Saturday), 11 AM to 3 PM (Sunday)
This villa, built in 1840, stands proudly on Harris Street with its unique Greek revival style. Francis Sorrel built the villa, and with time, it became home to Moxley Sorrel, the brigadier general and an important figure in the Civil War.
Did You Know?The second wife of Francis Sorrel committed suicide at the Old Sorrel Weed House along with one of the slave workers.Old-Sorrel Weed House was also featured in one of the episodes of HGTV’s Ghost Adventures.
However, today, along with being a place of architectural and historic importance, it is also a popular destination for ghost tours in Savannah. So, if you are interested in ghosts and spirits, a Ghost Tour on Paranormal Investigations here will be one of the best things to do in Savannah.
Tour And Travel Notes
Don’t miss a visit to Chippewa Square, near the Old Sorrel Weed House. It was the location of the famous Tom Hanks movie, Forest Gump.
In the movie, the actor sits on a bench at Chippewa Square and narrates his life stories.
5. A Tour Of Fort Pulaski National Monument
Operating Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
The 19th-century Pulaski National Monument gets its name from Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War Hero. Originally built as a watchpoint to save Savannah from coastal attacks, the fort slowly became a part of the history of slaves in Savannah.
Slaves escaping through the Underground Railroad used to take refuge in Fort Pulaski. So, visiting this historic fort is one of the most important things to do in Savannah and learn about the city’s relation with the history of slavery.
6. Exploring The Savannah African Art Museum
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Operating Hours: 11 AM to 5 PM
The Savannah African Art Museum is home to over thousand artworks from central and west Africa.
You can visit the spiritual and ceremonial collectibles from the 19th and 20th centuries. These objects are crafted from ceramics, metals, wood, etc.
The museum’s mission is to "provide engaging experiences that educate and start conversations about the power, diversity, and spirituality of African art.”
Tour And Travel Note
Savannah African Art Museum is a hidden gem and a great conversation starter for people interested in African culture.
Further, you will see many sculptures, textiles, masks, and other objects on display with the guide explaining their significance to you.
You can attend the 1-hour tours of the collectibles from Wednesday to Saturday. These tours start every 30 minutes.
7. Visiting The Wormsloe State Historic Site
Operating Hours: 9 AM to 4:45 PM
Are you up for a stroll with towering oak trees gracing the pathways? The dressing of Spanish moss makes these oak trees appear as a witness to the changes in nature and human histories related to this place.
This is a great place for photography enthusiasts. However, as you pass the entryway, you will encounter the oldest standing structure of Savannah, the Wormsloe Ruins.
Noble Jones, a carpenter and one of the first-generation settlers from England built an estate here in the 1750s. He recruited slaves to plant cotton and vegetables and run the estate as a profitable business.
Today, you can visit the ruins and a small museum tour will help you find the artifacts unearthed here.
Tour And Travel Tips
Don’t miss a walk on the interpretative trail at the Wormsloe State Historic Site. This trail along the Skidaway River marsh has interpreters in costumes. They interpret the colonial history of this estate and Georgia.
8. Introspection At The First African Baptist Church
The first African Baptist Church of 1773 is the longest-running Black church in North America. Rev. George Liele organized the church. He was a slave, but the British released him and he became the pastor of this church.
Andrew Bryan became the church’s second pastor as George Liele left for Jamaica. You can attend a service at the church or visit the following things, bearing the church’s architectural features and histories.
Original light fixtures
Balcony pews
Baptismal pool
Stained-glass windows
Underground Railroad
You can complete a tour of this church within 1 hour. So, visiting this church will easily fit into your list of things to do in Savannah.
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Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit!
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Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.
For someone fed on Hollywood staples, a visit to Los Angeles can be the biggest calling. Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood or hiking to the Hollywood sign are some of the best things to do in LA for a movie buff.
Further, Los Angeles has been a tourism hub since the late 1800s. With the foundation of the Merced Theatre and transportation systems, the city started attracting travelers. It is fascinating to see the city maintain the same craze in the age of socials.
Today, you type #losangeles and will find 86.8 million posts popping up. So, I have been thinking of sharing a to-do list in the city for the longest time. On the web, there are even threads like once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles Reddit! 😮😮😮😮
So, we could not stay behind, and here goes the brief guide, mentioning the things you can explore for a lifetime experience.
At Tour and Travel, we wanted it to be different than the regular “12 once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles by a local” or “once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles 2025” guides.
We wanted to keep it all hearts as the Hollywood movies have taught us!
Things To Do In LA For Once In A Lifetime Experience | Make The Movie Buff In You Happy
Los Angeles is the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” It is the Mecca of movie lovers, with names like Al Pacino, Clint Eastwood, and Marilyn Monroe gracing the city and its corners.
In other words, “Hollywood” is the biggest draw for the visitors to this city. So, among the things to do in LA for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I have included activities like hiking to the Hollywood sign or walking along the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
1. Hike To The Hollywood Sign | Once In A Lifetime Things To Do In Los Angeles
Are you up for a scenic hike? You can take a walk to the Hollywood sign. Throughout the hike, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of Los Angeles.
Further, once you reach the Hollywood sign, you can take the most beautiful photos of yourself or the surroundings.
Completing a hike to the Hollywood sign and taking some photographs, there is something preserved for posterity. You can share the memories with your future generations.
Hiking to the Hollywood Sign or Mount Hollywood through the Charlie Turner Trailhead is easy. You can cover a distance of 5.3 miles here within 2 hours and 30 minutes.
2. Visit The Universal Studios Hollywood
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City
Contact No: +1 800-864-8377
Open Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM, Weekends: 8 AM to 10 PM
For all the Potter Heads and Minion lovers, a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood will be an immersive experience. Here, you can enjoy thrilling g rides and explore the sets of many famous movies.
If you are about to visit Universal Studios Hollywood this winter, you must not miss the Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood. The event has already started on 29th November 2024 and will continue till 6th January 2025.
You can even be a part of the Ring in the New Year with EVE. It is the biggest New Year celebration in Hollywood.
Moreover, Universal Studios Hollywood has year-round attractions like “Jurassic World - The Ride,” “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, etc. So, a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the topmost once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles with kids.
3. Enjoy A Stroll Along The Hollywood Walk Of Fame
A walk along Hollywood Boulevard is one of the best things to do in LA for once in a lifetime. You will find golden stars dedicated to your favorite star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Moreover, you will feel the glamor of Tinseltown. Despite names like Julia Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, and Clint Eastwood refusing to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, it remains a landmark of intrigue and awe in Los Angeles.
4. Spend Some Time At Venice Beach
You can visit Los Angeles and, for the most relaxing time, head to Venice Beach. However, if soaking in the Sun is not the only thing you want, you can try a rollerblade or bike ride along the beach.
Further, you will find various street performers and unique shops on the beach. The vibrant atmosphere here makes it feature on our list of “once in a lifetime things to do Los Angeles.”
Moreover, Venice Beach has a skatepark where the best skaters in the area show their skills amidst the cheering of the onlookers.
5. Visit The Griffith Observatory
Address: 2800 E Observatory Road, Los Angeles
Contact No: +1 213-473-0800
Hours Open: Tuesday - Friday (12-10 PM), Saturday and Sunday (10 AM to 10 PM), Monday - Closed
Are you an observer of the sky? Are you passionate about celestial bodies? Exploring the Griffith Observatory is one of the best things to do in LA for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Irrespective of your day of visit, you can be a part of the daily programs at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. There will be live shows and live demonstrations of the Tesla Coil.
Moreover, there is a public telescope for you to look at the sky.
The Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park is located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood. You can hike to the park or enjoy a bike ride to this famous California hotspot.
Furthermore, if you are traveling with family, you can take a drive or shared ride. Be an early bird if you want a spot for your car at Downhill. You can even keep your car at the paid parking near the observatory.
6. Take A Helicopter Tour Of The City
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Do you want to explore a bird’s eye view of Los Angeles? You can take a helicopter tour of the city. While taking a helicopter tour, you can explore the famous coastlines and hotspots of California.
Also, the cityscape looks amazing from the helicopter. A helicopter tour of Los Angeles will be around 1.5 hours, and it’s going to cost you something between $220-520 for each person.
7. Take A Tour Of The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
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Address: 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino
Phone Number: +1 626-405-2100
Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is the best amalgamation of all three elements mentioned in the name.
It is an excellent place for researchers as they can explore as many as 12 million exhibits here. Further, these exhibits span between the 11th to 21st centuries.
Further, the Art Museum bustles with 45000 works of art and has the best British, European, American and Asian work.
Along with sculptures, the Art Museum also has paintings, photographs, decorative arts, and prints.
Moreover, the Botanical Garden stretches over 130 acres, and it has more than 80000 living plants. Some of these are even endangered. So, if you are a nature lover or interested in plants, a visit to this Botanical Garden will be one of the once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles this weekend.
8. Drive At The Christmas Tree Lane
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If you are in Dallas in December or January, a drive at the Christmas Tree Lane is one of the most festive things you can do.
The festive lights go on at the Christmas Tree Lane from 7th December after an illumination ceremony. The lights remain put till New Year’s Eve. And guess what! A drive at the Christmas Tree Lane is one of the free once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles.
Taking a drive through Christmas Tree Lane or Santa Rosa Ave feels great, with the cedars gracing the road lines.
Also read
Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary.
Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures.
From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.
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