The BEST Things To Do In Indiana Dunes National Park In 2025!

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  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.

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 25, 2023

Mexico City, the nation's bustling capital, offers an extraordinary blend of history and contemporary life that awaits to be explored. Offering culture, traditions, and numerous experiences for visitors from around the globe. This metropolis caters to every taste and interest, from art connoisseurs to night owls, from those seeking natural wonders to budget-savvy adventurers. Amid abundant music events, festivals, and unique attractions, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Don't worry; we are your guide to all the top attractions and things to do in Mexico City. Join us on this voyage of discovery as we uncover its beautiful heart! 1. Go Shopping At La Ciudadela Artisan Market Get ready to indulge your inner shopaholic in this vibrant and long-standing market. La Ciudadela is a treasure trove of locally crafted wonders, showcasing everything from intricate textiles and dazzling jewelry to exquisite ceramics and charming toys. If you're looking for souvenirs or seeking that one-of-a-kind keepsake, La Ciudadela's artisanal shops are your go-to destination. You'll discover wooden jaguar heads, whimsically colored skulls, mesmerizing Huichol-decorated jugs, handwoven palm baskets, unique pots and plates, and a captivating array of other handcrafted gems. 2. Visit The Infamous Xochimilco Let’s set sail to the enchanting site of Xochimilco, which has been UNESCO-listed. It gives a truly unique experience in Mexico City. Tradition and nature converge here, offering a captivating glimpse into native life as one navigates the serene canals. Embarking on a vibrant trajinera boat tour in and around Xochimilco is an adventure never experienced. Moreover, it ranks high among the most optimum things to do in and around Mexico City. As you approach the canals, the air fills with the melodious tunes of mariachi bands as well as marimbas, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Fear not, for local vendors abound, ensuring you don’t go hungry with their tempting offerings of regional cuisine. The tour’s pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the chinampas, these remarkable floating gardens, remnants of Aztec agriculture. Here, you’ll also encounter the intriguing sight of dolls hanging right beneath the trees, adding an extra layer of mystique to this already captivating journey. 3. Discover The Ancient Tales Of Templo Mayor The Templo Mayor Museum stands as a jewel across Mexico City’s heart, offering an immersive journey into the rich tapestry of pre-Hispanic history that shrouds the region. Erected in 1987, this museum serves as the custodian of archaeological treasures unearthed from what was once the revered Main Temple of the Mexican civilization. A marvel in its own right, the museum unfolds its wonders across eight distinctive exhibition halls, each weaving a unique narrative. A pilgrimage to the Templo Mayor bestows upon you the privilege of meandering through the relics of Tenochtitlan's paramount temple. On this hallowed ground, the echoes of an ancient empire still linger. Here, the past speaks through artifacts, a treasure trove that spans millennia. The museum proudly boasts the country's largest sculpture among its treasures, an awe-inspiring testament to Mexico's artistic prowess. For the fervent explorer of archaeology and history, the Templo Mayor is an indispensable pilgrimage, an opportunity to traverse time and uncover the secrets of a civilization that once thrived in this very soil. Don't let the chance slip through your fingers; make the Templo Mayor a must-visit on your journey through Mexico City. 4. Experience Local Culture In The Main Square Every year, Mexico's Day of the Dead transforms the Zócalo, the nation's heart, into a vibrant tapestry of cultural heritage. This iconic celebration is an unmissable immersion into one of Mexico's grandest traditions. This ancient rite is reinvigorated in the Main Square with abundant traditional cuisine, a sea of flickering candles, and a kaleidoscope of vibrant decorations and blooms. Even before its conversion into the central plaza during the colonial era, this hallowed ground had long served as a gathering place for the Aztec civilization. As the historic nucleus of Mexico City, the Main Square boasts an array of buildings that stand as testaments to architectural as well as cultural legacies. Meandering through this illustrious square, one can't help but be awed by these time-honored structures, making it an incredibly budget-friendly activity for anyone exploring Mexico City.  After reading this, if you are excited about staying in Mexico permanently, it’s time to consider moving to this country. While immigrating to Mexico might seem daunting, it is not! With a good immigration lawyer on your side, things will get easier. 5. Get Rowdy At The Corona Capital The Corona Capital Festival is an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in electrifying live performances by global music sensations. Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, this vibrant festival showcases a diverse array of musical talents. It ranges from established icons to the freshest talents, particularly within rock and alternative music. Still on the fence? Brace yourself for this year's headlining acts. It includes the sensational My Chemical Romance, the mesmerizing Arctic Monkeys, as well as the captivating Paramore, among other musical luminaries! If you're seeking a break from the typical tourist attractions and yearning for an unforgettable experience, this Mexican festival is an absolute must on your agenda. Regrettably, Corona Capital significantly shifted in 2013, no longer featuring local or Spanish-speaking performers. For those pursuing a more intimate festive experience in Mexico City, look no further than the Nrmal Festival. This hidden gem offers an eclectic roster of experimental and independent artists, promising a sonic journey that will introduce you to uncharted musical territories and likely unearth new favorites. 6. Watch A Movie In A Floating Cinema Mexico City is an extraordinary destination in its own right. But Lanchacinema offers an unparalleled and exclusive cinematic adventure that is truly one-of-a-kind worldwide. Embark on an unforgettable evening of film as well as fun while drifting through this vibrant metropolis's tranquil waters. Every first Saturday of the month, nestled deep within the enchanting Chapultepec Forest, awaits your chance to recline as well as unwind, completely immersed in the magic of your preferred movie. Picture yourself under the starlit sky, savoring a popcorn-filled night out on a boat. Let the Lanchacinema transport you to a cinematic realm like no other. To Sum It Up! Mexico City offers many distinctive adventures as well as surreal experiences that will satisfy any traveler’s wanderlust. From Oaxaca’s vibrant streets to Tulum’s breathtaking beaches as well as the tranquil beauty of Puerto Vallarta, there is something for everyone in this diverse country. With the assistance of Travel-Wise's AI Trip Planner, planning your trip has never been easier. This innovative tool provides contextual material based on your travel queries. It ensures that you get all the information you need to maximize your vacation. Travel-Wise makes planning your trip effortless so you can relax as well as unwind during your Mexico City getaway! So what are you waiting for - start creating your perfect Mexico City escape now with Travel-Wise! Read Also: You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji! Some Of The Best Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Florida Top 10 Beaches In Gloucester In Massachusetts – Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 22, 2024

Utah abounds in natural wonders that will astound even the most seasoned traveler. Encompassing millions of acres of breathtaking views with sandstone arches, towering buttes, expansive canyons and valleys, surreal salt flats, and lush mountains, the state is home to five national parks: Bryce National Park, Arches National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park, as well as Zion National Park. It might seem that Alaska should be your first choice when looking for a place to live if you enjoy being outside. If you are not fond of colder climates, Utah's adventurous offerings might be more to your liking. Let's just say that Utah has it all, with parks like Bryce Canyon, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park. Salt Lake City, one of the state's great natural wonders, even inspired the name of the state capital.  Furthermore, even though Utah recorded over 15 million visitors in 2022, the Beehive State is even more well-liked among recent arrivals. Utah grew at the fastest rate in the United States between 2010 and 2020, according to U.S. Census data, primarily because of out-of-state migration. The state's economy is another major lure. Utah's economy grew at the second fastest rate in the nation between 2017 and 2022, with the biggest industries being manufacturing, real estate, and scientific and technical services. But what are the best cities to live in Utah? Utah has many desirable neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and redeeming qualities. Here, we have compiled a list of some of the best places to live in Utah. Best Places to Live in Utah There are certain needs that go beyond demographics when looking for a new house. These include things like accessibility to commuter routes, crime rates, and access to healthcare facilities. These needs apply whether you're looking for a retirement community or a suburban area in which to raise a family. We have created a list of the best places to live in Utah based on all the factors important to you to make your life easier. Park City Our list of the best places to live in Utah starts with Park City. You'll have breathtaking views of the Wasatch mountains and the town's ski resort from your home in Park City. Park City residents can access a variety of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, and multiple shopping establishments. You will be enthralled by the town's magnificent museums and art galleries as you stroll around it. Park City has emerged as one of the best places for families to live thanks to its year-round perfect weather and low crime rate. You will create lifelong friendships when residing in Park City. Park City's unemployment rate is 2.8%, which is significantly lower than the national average. You can't beat Park City's views and safety, even though its cost of living is about 86% higher than the US average.  Fruit Heights One of the best places to live in Utah is the beautiful city of Fruit Heights. Located right outside of Salt Lake City, this property offers plenty of space for outdoor enjoyment, a tranquil neighborhood, and stunning views of the mountains. Living in Fruit Heights, you'll soon see how friendly the locals are to one another and how many eateries and coffee shops there are. Fruit Heights' great school system, pleasant weather, abundance of recreational options, and picturesque surroundings are all highly regarded by its residents. Fruit Heights' unemployment rate is 2.5% lower than the national average. You can overlook this city despite its 31% higher cost of living than the national average due to its wonderful community and top-notch schools. Greater Avenues One of the best places to live in Utah for families in is Greater Avenues, a charming neighborhood in Salt Lake City. With a population of about 17,000, this community enjoys the benefits of both a suburban atmosphere and many big city amenities, like restaurants and bars. Greater Avenues is a great place for families to relocate because of its top-notch school system, low crime rate, and favorable reviews. With an average value of at least six figures, families are well off in this area. If you enjoy living in the suburbs or downtown, you will adore The Greater Avenues! Summit Park Summit Park is among the prettiest cities in Utah. It is a stunning mountain town. Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains offer up from this serene, gorgeous town. Residents of the town take pleasure in outdoor pursuits, including biking, snowboarding, skiing, and hiking. You may expect to see moose, elk, and deer in and around the town. distinct from the large city. Families will also love Summit Park because of its many parks, open areas, and top-notch educational system. Summit Park has a 2.8% unemployment rate and a 58% higher cost of living than the national average. But Utah has so much to offer that the cost is well worth it! East Bench Next up is the homely Salt Lake City residential neighborhood known as East Bench. Nearly 7,000 people live in East Bench, which is at the foot of the Wasatch Range. The neighborhood includes the Salt Lake Country Club and the Bonneville Golf Course. Families will enjoy a day at the Hogle Zoo, which is home to tigers and giraffes. In East Bench, real estate prices do differ. This is advantageous because there are homes to fit every budget. Go to Ambassador Way, where a four-bedroom, four-bathroom grand family home with an estimated cost of over a million dollars, if you have seven figures to play with. A modest 2-bedroom family home with a sun-trapped garden might be a better fit for you if you have less money to invest. It costs just a little bit more than the average. Snyder Ville Located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Snyder Ville is a rapidly expanding community. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing against the stunning backdrop of the area. For its size, this little town has a lot, like restaurants serving fresh food from nearby farms. It's connected to neighboring cities despite its small size, so you can always find what you need when you need it. Snyder Ville is an ideal place to live in peace and quiet without having to worry about crowds. Highland One of the greatest places to live in Utah is Highland, east of Provo. Highland is home to well-known locations like Timpanogos Cave National Monument. Highland is well-known for its picturesque surroundings, highly educated populace, and projected job expansion. With a 2.5% unemployment rate, it is significantly lower than the national average. It doesn't get much better than living in a picturesque state like Utah, even though the cost of living in the Highlands is also 57% more than the national average. Wasatch Hollow Wasatch Hollow is a neighborhood located just south of Yalecrest. In Salt Lake City, this little suburb is regarded as the greatest place to purchase real estate. As members of the millennial generation look to buy their first homes, it is growing in popularity. Thus, the value is increasing in addition to the high demand. Wasatch Hollow's properties are what make the neighborhood so coveted. It's the kind of place you picture classic American avenues lined with trees, detached homes painted white, and children selling lemonade on the sidewalk. Although the median home value is higher than the national average, more expensive homes appear to be listed for sale more frequently. North Logan North Logan, which has about 8,000 residents, is in Cache County. In addition to some of the greatest outdoor pursuits, like camping and fishing, North Logan provides its residents with stunning views of the mountains. North Logan is renowned for its varied economy, close-by recreational opportunities, and lovely surroundings. North Logan's unemployment rate is 2%, which is significantly lower than the national average. By contrast, the cost of living is approximately 7% greater than the average for the country. Considering the views of the mountains you'll get from home, this is still an amazing choice! North Logan is easily one of the best places to live in Utah. Farmington In Utah, Farmington is a small city home to about 18,000 people. You can engage in many outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, camping, and fishing, while in Farmington. Moreover, Farmington is home to some of the top public and private schools in the state! One of the best places to live in Utah is Farmington, if you're looking to relocate there for leisure. Farmington is renowned for its lovely surroundings, close-by recreational opportunities, and wonderful climate. Farmington has a 2.5% unemployment rate and a cost of living that is roughly 26% higher than the national average. Cedar Hills Cedar Hills is a quaint and serene suburb located west of Highland. The neighborhood is home to ten thousand one hundred sixty-five people, who take great pride in maintaining the small-town atmosphere they have established. On paper, Cedar Hills is a suburb of Salt Lake City, but it's not. Utah's Cedar Hills is a very family-friendly place with lots of chances to spend quality time with your family. The community is centered around the church, and gatherings based on religious beliefs inspire community members to get together. There are a lot of public schools in Cedar Hills (78 to be exact) and this is one of the best places to live in Utah for young adults. Foothill It should come as no surprise that Foothill/Sunnyside, with a population of a little over a thousand, is Salt Lake City's safest neighborhood. If not by name, everyone recognizes each other by face. Starting a family in this area is becoming increasingly popular for couples. Since this is a Salt Lake City suburb, there are no sacrifices to be made. There are adequate public schools nearby, and there is convenient access to the city for employment from this base as well. Even though the average monthly rent is slightly less than $1,000, purchasing a home demands a more resolute investment because home values are higher than the national average. The selection of properties is superb, ranging from cozy three-bedroom condos to expansive five-bedroom family mansions. North Salt Lake City Given that Salt Lake City is the epicenter of the universe in Utah, it only makes sense to end our list of the best places to live in Utah with a suburb near the center of activity. North Salt Lake is every bit as charming as the other suburbs we've already shown you. This little town of its own has eighteen thousand residents. There are plenty of homes on the market at any given time with views of Rotary Park, and the median home value is reasonable. It appears that North Lake is the preferred location for millennials to purchase their first home, so be sure to return in a few years to see how North Salt Lake does on the list. Eagle Mountain Eagle Mountain, one of Utah's fastest-growing cities, draws young people and families looking for a superior public school system and a peaceful, safe atmosphere south of Salt Lake City. With 50 square miles, the city offers easy access to open spaces and outdoor recreation, as well as 30 miles of hiking and biking trails. Developers are also continuing to build new homes despite the low real estate inventory. Eagle Mountain's median sale price is $480,000. "You have everything from ranchette properties to mountainside homes with amazing views of Utah Lake, Cedar Valley, and the Wasatch Mountains, to carefree living in beautiful townhome and condominium communities," said Connie Elliott, a realtor. Draper The primary attraction of Draper is its thousands of acres of open spaces and protected land, which makes it a sanctuary for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. The city is renowned for its growing cultural scene and family-friendly amenities. The Point, a multi-billion-dollar mixed-use development with hotels, a retail promenade along the Jordan River, thousands of housing units, offices, and green spaces with hiking trails, one of the most significant real estate developments in Utah, was recently given the green light by Draper's government. Wrapping Up Utah provides a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year, with five national parks serving as highlights. Utah, which the U.S. Census Bureau listed as one of the states with the fastest growth, is a significant hub for government services, mining, information technology, and cattle ranching. Provo, West Jordan, Ogden, and Salt Lake City are among the best places to live in Utah. Utah's top universities include Utah State, Weber State, Utah and Brigham Young. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about the best places to live in Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: A Guide To Adventure And Nature: The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts Washington State Bucket List: 6 Amazing Attractions You Can’t Miss From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah