If you are planning to visit Mexico City, you have to prepare a list of things to do in Mexico City! Do you ever wonder why the city is so nostalgic and creates melancholia? It is a home of art galleries, overwhelming museums, and a haven for architecture lovers! Read the article to learn more.
Mexico City is an exciting place to be, especially if you enjoy museums with some of the world’s oldest and largest museums. It is a perfect place to be if you want to play tourist for a while!
It has been the capital of New Spain for almost 300 years now, and it is filled with ancient ruins representing an absolute sanctum for history! With sprawling mansions and several world heritage sites, you cannot keep this beauty from your bucket list.
These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City For You
Before we identify the exciting and interesting things you can do while visiting Mexico City, I want to bring to your attention that Mexico City was once called the City of Palaces.
It is also perfect for those who are attracted to a place’s local flavor when traveling! So as a tourist, you must integrate yourself with the delicious food, an electric combination of visiting architectural masterpieces, local villages, markets, and history.
The cultural diversity in Mexico City is incomparable to any in the world. Hence, it is a beautiful travel destination with chaotic yet picturesque views. With historical UNESCO sites around and inside the city, trust me; you will be busy with your visit!
Chapultepec Castle
This castle is mostly a part of tours organized almost daily! The Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology can initially seem intimidating, and you can easily get overwhelmed when you first visit.
However, it is one of the top attractions that is engaging and enjoyable. You can stroll in the Chapultepec Park adjoining the castle and then go inside it to be informed about its features by a guide.
The castle is more like a museum that displays significant artifacts such as Mayan, Mexico, and Teotihuacan exhibits. The castle is open for 5 to 6 hours, and you can get mobile tickets for $90 per head, while entry is free for students with IDs, disabled people, children, and senior citizens.
Bosque De Chapultepec
In Mexico City, Bosque De Chapultepec is one of the largest parks, comprising 686 hectares. The park also has a rock formation located centrally called Chapultepec Hill, one of the park’s main attractions.
It is also considered an ecological space that effectively helps maintain an environmental balance along with the city’s cultural aspects. When you buy tickets for the castle, the park becomes accessible; hence, you do not need to purchase tickets separately for the park.
Parque Zoológico De Chapultepec
One of the 4 zoos in Mexico City, Parque Zoológico De Chapultepec is one of the best. The Zoo is a part of Chapultepec Park and was inaugurated in 1923. The Zoo is free to access, and there are many families along with their children to enjoy themselves.
It is spread across 42 acres, with annual visitors of 5.5 million. They have a collection of 250 species and a total of 1930 animals in the Zoo.
Museo Nacional De Antropologia
It is considered the national museum of Spain as it displays artifacts from multiple civilizations and includes pre-Columbian history. This museum is so big and expands to cover so many periods that it can be exhausting for visitors.
It is the most popular museum in Mexico, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the displays in detail. The tickets to enter the museum are $4 per person. The time to visit is from 9 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Sunday!
Free tours are available on Saturdays in 5 different time durations. They are:
10:30 am.
12:30 pm.
1:30 pm.
3 pm.
5 pm.
Also, if you are a foreigner visiting the museum, avoid Sundays. On that day, the natives receive free admission. Hence, there will be a crowd in the museum.
Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe
The Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe is a mammoth church that is also addressed as the country’s national shrine. It is considered a significant pilgrimage site for the Catholics from 1709 because it contains the famous cloak displaying the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The church acts as a shrine, and you must be respectful when you visit it, so try to avoid wearing workout clothing or shorts. The tickets to enter the church are 50 cents per head, and it also allows free cancellation.
Coyoacan
Are you on a vacation in Mexico city? Please visit Coyoacan, you will get a feeling of bohemian culture all around you, while a park sits centrally named Jardin Centenario Park. The village can be addressed as a collection of monuments presenting history.
The meaning of the name “Coyoacan” is a place for coyotes. It is a bohemian neighborhood with the Museo de Frida Kahlo, which is blue in color, where you can see a collection of her life and work. Also, there is the preserved home of Leon Trotsky, which you can visit.
You do not need to pay anything to visit the village. However, there are art galleries, sidewalk cafes, and colorful artisan markets that you will love to explore!
Museo Soumaya
Another classic museum that is privately owned, Museo Soumaya, is a non-profit organization with two buildings, Plaza Loreto and Plaza Carso. The time to visit the museum is between 10:30 and 6:30 every day, with free admission.
The architect is Fernando Romero, and the museum’s collection includes artwork and artifacts between the 15th and mid-2th centuries. It is one of the world’s largest museums which houses approximately 70,000 works.
Zocalo
Want to experience the culture of Mexico, you should visit the Zocalo or the Plaza de la Constitución, which is one of the most popular sports in the city. It is a historical public plaza that is quite large and is always alive and buzzing. This is one of the best things to do in Mexico city!
You can find Aztec dancers and performers who showcase traditional skills, integrate cultural performances, and also perform political demonstrations. It is shaped as a square with a sprawling place to host the performances. Admission is completely free!
Landmarks and beautiful architecture surround the place, such as the Temple Mayor and Palacio Bellas Artes! You can start your exploration of the city from here, integrating a historical location that represents the culture.
Catedral Metropolitana De La Ciudad De México
One of the significant monuments, Catedral Metropolitana De La Ciudad De México, is the largest church in Latin America, more dominating than the Zocalo. It is an iconic structure with a must-see!
A feast to the eyes, the church is as innovative and inquisitive as regards the use of Aztec stones used in construction. The Altar de person is elaborately gilded and carved and is an eye-catcher! There is also a dusky Christ figure called the Senor del Veneno on the right.
The cathedral is an artistic delight because of its intricate carvings and 17th-century wooden designs. The ticket prices are $34.99 per head. You can roam around freely; however, people are asked to respect it during mass.
National Palace
The National Palace has served as the official residence of the president of Mexico since 2018. It is also the seat of the federal executive in Mexico. It is one of Mexico City attractions!
The palace is beautifully designed, and the ticket to visit the grounds will cost around $29. You will face grand colonial architecture that you can’t stop but admire. It is also a symbol of the national history of Spain.
Monumento Y Museo De La Revolución
The Mexican Revolution is being commemorated by Monumento Y Museo De La Revolución, which is located in the Plaza de la Republica. The entry fee is $15, while you can also take a bus tour that will take you around the building and guide you through the historical representation.
Torre Latino
A skyscraper in downtown Mexico City, the Torre Latinoamericana is centrally located and considered one of the most important landmarks in history. It was launched on 30 April 1956, and the architect of the building was Augusto H. Alvarez.
The building has 44 stories with a height of 166 meters and is quite popular because it has been successfully developed in a seismic zone. The building is open from 10 am to 9 pm, and the tickets cost $9.
You will find an aquarium in the building, considered the highest aquarium in the world, along with observation decks designed to enjoy the spectacular view of the city. The aquarium is located on the 38th floor.
Biblioteca Vasconcelos
A one of its kind library, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is considered one of the biggest by the Mexican press. It is located in the downtown section of Mexico City. The presidential candidate and the prior president of the National Library of Mexico, Jose Vasconcelos, has inspired this library.
The library was inaugurated in 2006, and with advanced constructions, the library has become an attraction in the 21st century. Entry to the library is free; however, they have certain rules regarding using and accessing the books.
Mercado Roma
It is a multi-level food hall chic in its updo sporting a rooftop beer garden and international eateries. You can have delivery, takeaway, and dine-in here! It is a traditional yet modern take on indie gourmet snacks featuring all the upcoming chefs of the city.
There is no entry fee, but you will spend a lot because the food is delicious! For all you Instagrammers, take advantage of this place because where else would you get pictures thus sumptuous?
El Bazar Sabado
A marketplace with vibrant colors and options is open from morning 10 to evening 7 p.m. It boasts a collection of top traditional Mexican arts, crafts and local artists who display their art for you to buy!
Guys and girls, you will spend a lot of money here, especially with the beautiful clothing items and home decor. You will also get food in stalls in 18th-century homes or mansions belonging to aristocratic residents.
Acuario Inbursa
One of the largest aquariums in Latin America, with more than 230 diverse species and more than 5000 animals. The aquarium is in the district of Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City. Imagine the beauty of the aquarium while standing below these beauties!
The exhibition space comprises 3500 square meters with approximately 1.6 million liters of Ocean water. The display comprises 5 types of sharks, barracuda, and manta rays. One ticket to enter the aquarium costs $230.
Antara Fashion Hall
The mall is an attraction with an upscale view of the stores in the open-air shopping center in Colonia Granada, Mexico City. There are beautiful displays along which you can carry on your shopping excursion.
Women love shopping, don’t they? Guys, if you do not accompany your girls to this shopping mall, you will miss out big time. With beautiful clothing stores and food restaurants, it is the place to be in Mexico City!
Plaza San Jacinto
Another remarkable public place to visit, perfect for spending time, taking a stroll, or visiting the San Jacinto Church, Plaza San Jacinto is the public square! You can also visit the pre-Hispanic village of Tenanitla, a perfect place to experience bohemian culture.
The Plaza is the apt place to understand the culture of Mexico and experience the way art, baroque, and sculptures come together to create vibrancy and medieval beauty!
Museo De Sitio Teotihuacan
Located closer to the Pyramid Sun at its southern end, Museo De Sitio Teotihuacan symbolizes Teotihuacan’s local culture. It is a refreshing stop, especially if you have been walking around the whole day!
The ticket price to visit the museum is $73.55, where you will find traditions, history, and experience. It is one of the significant features, especially because Teotihuacan boasts of palaces, ruins of apartments, temples, and pyramids.
Ballet Folklorico De Mexico
If you have gone to Mexico City, you must attend this beautiful performance, especially with the impressive performance of the Mexican folkloric ensemble! Ballet performances have been going on for the past 6 decades.
There are costumes and dance numbers presented in the traditional performance by Mexican artists! The ticket price for the ballet is approximately $40.
San Angel
If you are more of a cultural fellow, you have to go to San Angel, a neighborhood in Mexico which is charming to its core! You can go right in your pictures with the colonial homes covered in bougainvillea.
The streets are cobblestone, with upscale restaurants and cafes on the sidewalks. This route connects you to the 17th-century El Carmen Monastery and the Plaza San Jacinto, so get some history and culture!
There are also art markets on the roadside on Saturday, creating a perfect view for the hungry artist in you!
Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco
A mesmerizing place to be, Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco has been announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the canals, which spread across 100 square miles.
The place is a mixture of culture and nature where the open-air gondolas float while the whole market is established on the gondolas. Flower, food, and beverage sellers are all carrying on in the gondolas.
Mariachi musicians play traditional songs, and you can party in nearby boats with your friends and family while drinking some beer.
Six Flags Mexico
It is for the adrenaline junkies! Also, if you have children, visit Six Flags Mexico, an amusement park closer to the southern edge of Mexico City and in the Tlalpan forest. There are two water rides, and the park is open year-round.
There are 9 roller coaster rides apart from other rides; in total 50 rides in the park. The ticket to entry into the park costs around $57. Get yourself an adrenaline-filled day, people!
El Angel De La Independencia
It is mostly known as El Angel, which is a victory column that is situated in downtown Mexico City! The El Angel De La Independencia is also identified as an independence tribute for the victory of Mexico over Spain after the War of Independence.
You can see the gold statue, the Angel of Independence, almost anywhere in the city. To go to the top of the monument, you must buy a ticket for $16. You can also opt for a private helicopter tour which will cost you more!
The monument is gigantic and represents the victory and the development of the people after independence.
Alameda Central
This place is famous, and why won’t it be? Have you seen the beautiful monument with its sharp corners and the majestic visuals it creates contracting the sky? It is not only beautiful, it is also historically important for the people.
The monument is also a park where people hang around and is considered a marketplace! It was where heretics were burned under the Spanish acquisition, so clearly, this place is a place of sacrifice.
You do not need to pay anything to visit the place! And do remember to take pictures, people!
Sagrario Metropolitano
The visiting charge for Sagrario Metropolitano is $84 per person, which might be a little pricey, but it is worth it! The church has been made of stone, standing brave in its elegance and architectural beauty.
The facades of the church have been lavishly ornate, and if you are a monument fan, you cannot miss the baroque architecture reflecting the Greek side of the monument.
Unam Biblioteca Central
Book lovers, here you go! Another library is located in Mexico City, you have to visit it! Unam Biblioteca Central belongs to the National Autonomous University of Mexico and is the main library for students in Ciudad Universitaria.
The book collection in this library is one of the largest and most multidisciplinary in providing books for adjacent faculties. The library has beautiful murals, and you do not need to pay any charge to visit it.
Los Dinamos
Are you a hiker? Or a nature lover? Go for Los Dinamos, as it is the perfect place for rock climbing, camping, and hiking across the wooded valley with waterfalls and large streams. It is open from 6 am and is a protected area.
You can take a bus to Los Dinamos, which will cost $19.58! It is situated near the southwest area of the city with trails across the terrain! Happy hiking!
Territorio Capitan
Sports lovers, Territorio Capitan is the home of the Capitanes, which was founded in 2016. The beauty of the stadium is more beautiful in person and it boasts of being the first Latin American franchise across the NBA G League.
For the historical tours, the price of the tickets is $149 for one person. However, it changes with the size of your visiting group!
Day Of The Dead
If you are planning on traveling to Mexico City, aim for your dates around November, as the Day Of The Dead. is celebrated on 1 and 2 November. It varies with different localities, which will give you a glimpse of Mexican heritage.
Remember Daniel Craig’s James Bond making his way across the city in the opening scene? It was the Day Of The Dead when the people of Mexico celebrated the dead as it is said, “The dead are alive.”
Concerts across Mexico City are organized, and everyone has different ticket prices, but yes, take advantage of this celebration as you will learn about Mexico City more closely.
Now You Know!
I have made a list keeping in mind that only some are of the same practices and choices, and you might prefer adventure or a museum! But overall, all these places are perfect for that list you are making of things to do in Mexico City.
What can be more interesting and exciting if you do not learn about the culture and the people of the place you are visiting? Traveling across the world and learning about different cultures is mind-opening.
Comment down below about the place you liked the most out of all the places and why!
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
Glacier National Park, or the “Crown of the Continent,” boasts unique geology, fossils, ecosystems, and thriving wildlife.
“Far away in northwestern Montana, hidden from view by clustering mountain-peaks, lies an unmapped corner—the Crown of the Continent.” - George Bird Grinnell, Editor, Forest and Stream
It is also a hiker’s paradise with trails of varying difficulty levels. In addition, a drive through the park will allow you to visit more than 700 lakes and learn about the history of American-Indian tribes like the Blackfeet, Kootenai, Salish, and more!
Let’s explore the miles of wonders and help you make an itinerary with a guide on things to do and places to stay in the park. Having said that, the park offers boating, bus rides, and horse riding tours. However, hiking is the best way to get to know the park well.
Where Is Glacier National Park? How To Reach It?
The 1,583 square miles of wilderness of Glacier National Park is in northwestern Montana, United States. It is close to Waterton Lakes and the Canada-United States border.
Furthermore, Columbia Falls is the nearest city to this national park. If you want to visit the park, you can reach its southern boundary through Highway 2. However, if you want to enter the park from its east side, you must take Highway 89.
Moreover, the nearest airports to this national park are Kalispell and Great Falls. From there, you will have to reach the park by road.
Visitor Centers of the Park
Apgar Visitor Center
St. Mary Visitor Center
Logan Pass Visitor Center
Operating Hours: The park is open 24 hours a day. You can visit the park on 365 days of the year.
You will have to pay some fees at the entrance. The entrance stations will not always be human-crewed. However, you must make a self-payment following the instructions at the entrance.
Where To Stay In Glacier National Park?
Once you have reached the park safely, you will, of course, look for safe accommodation. Camping and wilderness camping are surely the best options if you want to make the most of the park experience.
However, you can always explore the lodging options for more comfort. The park also has restaurants and stores, providing you with basic amenities.
Lodges In Glacier National Park
Look at the table below for details about the lodging options at Glacier National Park.
Lodging Facility OperatesContact Information Glacier National Park Lodges/Xanterra Parks & ResortsVillage Inn MotelLake McDonald LodgeRising Sun Motor InnSwiftcurrent Motor Inn(855) 733-4522 (USA)(303) 265-7010 (Outside the USA)Glacier Park Collection Apgar Village LodgeMotel Lake McDonald(844) 868-7474Sperry Chalet & Granite Park Chalet (These are two backcountry chalets in Glacier National Park.)Sperry ChaletGranite Park Chalet(888) 345-2649
It is always better to check the availability at the lodges in advance. Further, some of these lodges have historic associations. For example, the Lake McDonald Lodge became a “National Historic Landmark” in 1987.
Did you know that Lake McDonald Lodge is one of the best examples of Swiss chalet architecture, and it is a member of the Historic Hotels of America? Talk to the staff in the lodges to unearth more stories and anecdotes about these places.
Camping In Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park has 13 front country campgrounds. Along with putting up a tent, these campsites are also suitable for RVs and other vehicles.
These campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served, or reservation basis. So, let’s explore the options.
Type of BookingName of the CampgroundHighlights First-Come, First-Served Bowman Lake CampgroundIt offers the best view of Bowman Lake.Further, it is known for its serene ambiance. Cut Bank CampgroundThe Cut Bank Campground is the best for backcountry trips.It is also close to many day-hiking trails. Kintla Lake CampgroundI found this campground the most picturesque camping destination in the park.Sitting on the Kintla Lake, it is a quiet place for camping. Logging Creek CampgroundThis campground is close to Logging Lake.Also, you will love it if you prefer some solitude. Quartz Creek CampgroundIt is the smallest campground in the park, and you will love it for its pristine charm. Rising Sun CampgroundYou can enjoy the best view of Red Eagle Mountain from this camping ground.Further, as the name suggests, it offers beautiful sunrise views. ReservedApgar CampgroundThe evening programs at the Apgar Amphitheater are the most entertaining thing to do in the park.You can take a short walk from this camping ground to enjoy the sunset views of Lake McDonald. Avalanche CampgroundAvalanche Campground is great for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching.In addition, it is connected to many day-hiking trails. Fish Creek CampgroundIt offers decent views of Lake McDonald.Also, you can enjoy some privacy here. Many Glacier CampgroundIt is the best camping ground to experience wilderness in the park. Further, you can see bears and bighorn sheep here. St. Mary CampgroundIt is the hub of interpretive programs and many other events in the park.Also, it is the largest campground on the park’s eastern side. Sprague Creek CampgroundCamping is comfortable here with shades of trees.Further, it offers the best view of Lake McDonald. Two Medicine CampgroundIf you want red bus and boat tours, Two Medicine Campground is the best for you. Further, it offers better privacy than other campgrounds.Also, it leads to the Running Eagle Falls and many other popular hiking trails.
So, choose a campground based on your desired experience and other preferences. For reservation, contacting the park authority at least six months before your visit is better.
Wilderness Camping In Glacier National Park
You will need a wilderness permit if you’re going to do wilderness camping in the park. If you ask me, camping by the riverside is the best option. Further, if you want to be more adventurous, you can try wilderness camping in winter with special permits.
Here, I will only discuss the best riverside camping options in the wilderness. You will need river camping permits and must abide by the camping regulations on the riverside.
North Fork Flathead River
The undesignated wilderness camping along the North Fork Flathead River is a great place if you want to try paddling or angling. Boating in the river is also a popular activity here.
Middle Fork Flathead River
The Middle Fork Flathead River camping is the best choice to explore the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Further, the primitive setup here offers you the most adventurous camping experience.
What To Do In Glacier National Park? Try Hiking To Know The Park's Best
It does not matter whether you want a short hiking expedition or a long backpacking experience. The Glacier National Park has you covered. So, let’s know about some of the trails.
Avalanche Lake
Difficulty Level - Easy to Moderate
Trek Distance - 5.9 Miles
This trek route is close to the Lake McDonald Lodge, and before you start the trek, you can enjoy a boat ride in Lake McDonald before starting your day.
You will see many waterfalls and mountains while hiking through this beautiful and easy trail.
Highline Trail
Difficulty Level - Moderate
Trek Distance - 7.2 Miles
If you want to experience the core essence of the Glacier National Park in one day, you must trek through the Highline Trail. You will visit Alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and the best wildflowers throughout your hiking expedition.
Further, the Continental Divide makes the pain-stricken hike worth it. However, be careful during the last 4 miles of the trek, as trekking downward through the trail is Scary!
Siyeh Pass
Difficulty Level - Strenuous
Trek Distance - Over 10 Miles
Siyeh Pass is the trekking trail you must explore to see the 1.5 billion-year-old fossils in the park. You will also get to see many glaciers throughout the trek. The glaciers visible in this trekking route are:
Blackfoot
Sexton
Piegan
Jackson
In addition, you will love trekking through the spruce and fir forests, and the wildflowers in the meadows are a treat for the eyes.
Hidden Meadow
Difficulty Level - Easy
Trek Distance - 3 Miles
Hidden Meadow in Glacier National Park is a kid-friendly trail. Further, it is a short trek taking you through forests until you reach a meadow for an expansive view of the surroundings.
Also, you will love the largest Douglas firs here.
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Indiana Dunes National Park At A Glance
Location: 1100 North Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304
Visitor Center Contact Number: 219 395-1882
Hours Open: 6 AM to 11 PM
Time Required: 1 Full Day
Fees: $15-25 (Standard Pass), $45 (Annual Pass), and Free-$80 (America the Beautiful Pass, including Senior Passes)
Area: More than 15000 acres
Designation: National Lakeshore (1966) and National Park (15th February 2019)
Famous For: Being the birthplace of American ecology, Housing 30% of the rare, endangered, threatened, and special concern plants of Indiana
Best Time to Visit: April and May and Late September to October
Best Way to Reach: Take the South Shore Train, having multiple stops in the park
Unique Things Do In Indiana Dunes National Park | Plan Your Day Activities
Indiana Dunes National Park is a year-round attraction. So, every season offers the visitors something unique to do.
Let’s explore what wonders await at this national park, rich in biodiversity.
1. Swimming And Beach Activities
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Many of the recreational things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park center around the miles of beaches in the park. The southern tip of Michigan and the beaches there are ideal for swimming and various beach activities.
Beaches In Indiana Dunes National ParkPorter BeachWest BeachDunbar BeachKemil BeachCentral Avenue BeachLake View BeachMount Baldy Beach
Even if you don’t want to take part in adventurous activities, you can just enjoy a sunrise or sunset stroll along the beaches.
2. Biking
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You can bike through the 37 miles trail of the Indiana Dunes National Park and explore the dunes, historical spots, and wildlife of the park.
Further, the park has gravel and paved biking trails at various distances. So, you can choose a trail according to your level of expertise.
Biking Trails In Indiana Dunes National ParkDunes Kankakee Bike TrailCalumet Bike TrailPrairie Duneland Bike TrailPorter Brickyard Bike TrailOak Savannah Bike TrailMarquette Bike Trail
3. Geocaching
Geocaching is one of the most unique things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park. This treasure hunt game is played by geocachers.
These geocachers have to collect geocaches or hidden containers. So, if you are a geocacher or a participant in the game, you will have a smartphone with a free geocaching app and a GPS device.
Further, at Indiana Dunes National Park, you will be able to do four types of geocaching. You can try traditional or the most traditional geocaching at Chellberg Farm.
You can even try EarthCaching at Kemil Beach, Mount Baldy, and West Beach. Moreover, other types of geocaching in the park are Lab Caches at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk and Virtual Caching at A Century of Progress Historic District.
4. Bird Watching
The park, nestled on the southern tip of Lake Michigan, attracts a lot of migrating birds. It is especially delightful with the sounds of the migrating songbirds in autumn.
So, you can be a beginner or an avid birdwatcher. You will be able to spot waterfowl or other wetland birds easily.
Moreover, this park hosts the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival on the 3rd weekend of May. This is a four-day event, and the more than a dozen birdwatching spots in the park are amazing.
5. Camping
Camping is one of the best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park if you want to explore the park at your own pace.
Moreover, the park campground has 66 campsites for tents and 53 RV sites. The campground here does not have electric hookup facilities.
Furthermore, campsites 15, 30, 41, and 55 are wheelchair accessible. However, camping facilities in the park are seasonal, and for the winter season, the camping ground will remain closed till 31st March.
Moreover, the camping fee per night at the park is $25.
6. Hiking
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You can explore the dunes of the park, rare plants, and diverse species of birds and animals by hiking. Further, many trails take you to the historic places in the park.
For example, you can hike through the Bailly Homestead Trail and enjoy the presence of oak, maple, basswood, and beech trees.
You can even hike to the Chellberg Farm, Mnoke Prairie Trails, and Little Calumet River.
Overall, the park has 15 trails with varying difficulty levels. So, irrespective of your expertise, you can choose the one most suitable for you. Moreover, the trails can take you from 20 minutes to 4 hours to conquer.
Some moderate trails in the park are Calumet Dunes Trail, Cowles Bog Trail, Dune Ridge Trail, etc.
Furthermore, West Beach Trails and Mount Baldy Beach Trail are some of the toughest hiking trails for you to complete in the park.
7. Visiting Historic Sites
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Exploring the historic sites is one of the most meaningful things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park. Did you know that the park has more than 60 historic sites?
The most important landmarks of the park are Chellberg Farm, Good Fellow Youth Camp, and Bailly Homestead. Moreover, you can visit the Cypress Log Cabin, House of Tomorrow, Florida Tropical House, and many other 1933 World’s Fair Century of Progress Homes.
8. Stargazing
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Despite being very close to the urban area. Indiana Dunes National Park is a hotspot for stargazing. The lakeshores of the park, especially, create an ideal ambiance for getting lost in celestial activities.
Furthermore, the sky over the footprint of Lake Michigan is darker, creating a deeper sense of intrigue. Kemil Beach is the best place in the national park for stargazing. Also, it is the “7th designated International Dark Sky Community.”
9. Horseback Riding
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You can enjoy horseback riding in the park along the Glenwood Dunes trail. The trailhead is on Brummitt Road, Chesterton and it is the only equestrian trail in the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Further, the trail remains open from 16th March to 14th December.
Moreover, you can opt for the best guided tours in the park. Every year, the park offers over 500 guided tours. So, you can get in touch with the park's visitor center before planning a day out.
See you there!
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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
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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.
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