40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (2024)

The top stops along the way from Philadelphia to Cocoa Beach (with short detours) are Lincoln Memorial, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, and Savannah Historic District. Other popular stops include Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and Independence Hall.

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Independence Hall

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Building

Sights & Landmarks

Independence Hall is a historic building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed. The hall is located in Independence Historical Park and is open to the public every day of the year.

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(9138)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (8)

520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA

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Hersheypark

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Amusem*nt park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Hershey Park is an amusem*nt park that features rides such as roller coasters and thrill rides for adults, family-friendly rides, and water attractions for kids. The park has a Boardwalk section that offers a water park with slides, waves pool and more.

My teenage daughter enjoy this place so much.Pass wasn’t cheap, but worth it.I was hoping the opening hours can be 9am instead of 11am.Food inside the park was okay, parking was simple!Will come back soon to enjoy the water park.If they can open more ticketing booth, that’ll be great.

Enzo L — Google review

This was the best vacation I’ve had in a long time. So much to do in Hershey and I didn’t get to do it all but we still had a good time. We went to Hershey park and to chocolate world. Hershey park was really not expensive for the tickets. The food and amenities were expensive but it is an amusem*nt park so that’s to be expected obviously. Altogether we had a great time. We went to the zoo which was by far one of the best and most intimate experiences I’ve had in a zoo. I wanted to go to Amish country but didn’t get the chance. I would recommend everyone to go at least once in their lifetimes because you get to see the history of how everything was made and created. I don’t think I will go again with the kids because we have already seen everything and not much changes up there however, I will take my wife back just to see Amish country. There are more adult things to do there and ways to enjoy yourself. I’ll be posting that review as soon as I’m able to get back up there.

E A — Google review

Hersheypark is an excellent destination for families seeking an unforgettable amusem*nt park experience. From thrilling rides to sweet attractions, it offers something for everyone. The park’s cleanliness and well-maintained facilities create a safe and enjoyable environment.One highlight is the variety of rides available, catering to all age groups. The roller coasters provide exhilarating adventures, while the gentle attractions and kiddie rides keep the younger ones entertained. The water park section offers refreshing fun on hot days.The staff at Hersheypark deserves commendation for their friendliness and helpfulness. They are readily available to assist with any inquiries or concerns, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit. Additionally, the park’s accessibility features make it accommodating for individuals with disabilities.Food options are plentiful, with diverse menus and accommodating dietary preferences. However, be prepared for slightly higher prices, as expected in most theme parks.Overall, Hersheypark offers an outstanding family experience with its thrilling rides, well-kept grounds, and friendly staff. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable and enjoyable day out with loved ones.

Tony F — Google review

This is one of the best amusem*nt parks I have ever been to. We had so much fun, it's full of roller-coasters and after a whole day there we weren't able to ride them all (started to rain heavily). Also they have nice stores and great food options. And we really didn't have to wait that long to ride every time. I extremely recommend going there, and would definitely come back again.

Vera A — Google review

What an awesome place! The weather was PERFECT! Being that I'm from Louisiana and have been experiencing Temps of over 100 degrees, the breezy and sunny weather here was welcoming! The park was very clean and wasn't overcrowded. The food was pretty good but the main favorite of my family was the thrilling roller coasters! If you're a thrill seeker, this place is for you! They have some really cool roller coaster rides! My teenage kids had so much fun riding all of the rides and even went to the Waterpark area and had a blast there too! The lines weren't too long and the entire trip was very pleasant. We will definitely be returning!

Claudia L — Google review

Fun for the whole family. My wife enjoyed the park even though she is 6 months pregnant because of zoo and water animal show. My kids loved the whole experience. Only down side many attractions were closed due to our late in the season visit. We did love all of the Halloween festivities though.

Don S — Google review

This was my first time visiting for the holiday season. It was very pretty but overally crowded in some of the attractions. We weren't able to see everything they had to offer because they closed so early, even on a Friday. Chocolate World was closed as well, and so we're most of the rides. It was a nice experience but I wouldn't come back during the holidays. I feel like it was too expensive for what it was.

Samantha — Google review

Visited Hershey on a weekend! The place was not too crowded and was fun filled. We did the chocolate world tour, make your own candy bar.My son loved both the attractions and found it pretty enjoyable.The attractions are a little expensive however worth it.Overall the place is expensive for food and souvenirs. But truly a good place to visit with a family and kids.

Neeti P — Google review

Great park. I just wish the lines weren't always so painfully slow moving at every ride. The parks operations aren't the best really and there's a lot of little kids and elderly crowds. It's a great family park / thrill park but be prepared to wait in some very long lines as the ride crews don't hustle to send out trains.

Will L — Google review

This is a really nice park that our family really enjoyed visiting. The park seemed really clean and well staffed. We enjoyed the preview night the two hours before our first night. We rented a cabana for our water park day and it was great. They had their own bathrooms and exclusive grill. We got free soft drinks. The staff for the cabanas would make want to do the cabanas again just for them.

Brennan L — Google review

We had so much fun yesterday at Hershey Park. We are a family of four. We have a teenager and a toddler. My husband is a roller coaster enthusiast and I am a little less of an enthusiast. We visit every amusem*nt we can. Some are better suited to adults and some to children. It's great when it's well balanced and Hershey Park is!! I wish there was more chocolate. LoL but seriously I was SO in the mood for chocolate fountains ! Loved the refill cups and cashless system. The lines were not bad at all especially for the first half of the day! The app was very helpful except my husband had it too they read wait times differently. For example : mine said 30 min wait and his said 15 minute wait for the same ride. All in all, great time!! See the sea animal show, it's adorable.

Elizabeth V — Google review

The happiest place on earth. What a fantastic place to spend your vacation. The rides are very fun and the lines are long but everybody expects that. Very clean park. The food is delicious. Prices are sky high just like the rides. But who doesn't want to dance with chocolate characters and create their own Hershey Bar at the Hershey Chocolate factory? Dream come true ❤️Absolutely a must place to visit as a kid and an adult 👌.

Yulia G — Google review

We had an absolutely delightful experience at Hersheypark. The park offers rides for all ages at a reasonable price. We spent the entire day at the park, from opening to closing, and there was an abundance of activities to keep us entertained. The park is well-maintained and the staff is friendly and helpful. The park’s cleanliness and attention to detail are commendable. We highly recommend Hersheypark to families looking for a fun and memorable day out.Upon entering the park, we were greeted by a friendly staff member who provided us with a map and answered all our questions. The park is well-organized, and the map was easy to follow. We started our day with the Cocoa Cruiser, a family-friendly roller coaster that was a great way to ease into the day. We then moved on to the Laff Trakk, an indoor spinning coaster that was a lot of fun. The Wild Mouse was another highlight, with its sharp turns and sudden drops. We also enjoyed the Ferris Wheel, which provided a great view of the park.The park has a variety of food options, from snacks to full meals. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Chickie’s & Pete’s stand, which offered a variety of seafood and other options. The park also has plenty of restrooms, which were clean and well-maintained.Overall, we had a fantastic time at Hersheypark. The park offers something for everyone, and we can’t wait to go back!

E Z — Google review

What a great day! So many fun thrill seeking rollercoaster but Wildcat was our favorite! Clean amusem*nt park with lots of bathrooms and food options.

Queen G — Google review

Ended up coming here after my daughter's cheer competition, and all I have to say is WOW! We had an amazing time there and this was the first amusem*nt park my kids have been too. I wish we had more time to explore more and ride more of the rides 😪 😩. But we will definitely be making a personal trip back sometime this summer!

Aaron A — Google review

It's a nice place to be with kids as with any other amusem*nt park. The tickets are not that expensive but probably they need more staff the manage the crowd. Few rides were not working and sometimes even the vending machines and food services kiosks were too slow. Ultimately, we had fun but could have been better. You need at least 3 days to cover all rides and attractions.

Maewa S — Google review

We went on a Sunday in April, the weather was absolutely perfect! Don't love the layout of this park as it is very hard to navigate efficiently. Having said that they do have very good markers pointing everywhere you look so if you know where you want to go it's pretty easy to find it. It was a pretty busy day but we kept an eye on wait times in the app and we ended with our longest wait time being 45 minutes! We caught several rides right after they had been down for some reason or other. The rides themselves are some of the best I've been on!!! So smooth and no headache makers!! Another amazing thing was how allergy friendly the park was!!! The app listed ALL ingredients AND labeled things for several allergy categories. They even had a gluten friendly area/line in Thier food court. WOW!!! Way to go, this was absolutely amazing!!! And the prices for food weren't outrageous!? What more could you ask for, this was so much fun and wish we lived close by so we could enjoy it more often!!

Natalie A — Google review

We brought our children and grandchildren (total of 8 people) here for our first visit. Handicap parking was close to the entrance. I obtained an ADA access booklet from guest services to allow easier ride entrance for rides I wanted to go on. The staff makes the process pretty easy and they were all very helpful. There were a lot of school trips visiting the day we went but it still wasn't overly crowded. The most popular rides had a longer wait, as expected. We did not visit the water area while we visited the park. Of course, the food is expensive but they do offer an all day dining option. We did purchase the cups with free refills and we were glad we did. There are refill stations all over the park. The park was very clean and all of the staff we interacted with were polite and knowledgeable. Overall, everyone had a great time and we will definitely visit again.

Lisa W — Google review

Service was good and rides were great. In order to get the full experience, you should spend at least a day at the park. I recommend you bring a bottle of water with you since this is a very large park. Kids will enjoy this and the Boardwalk in my opinion is the highlight of this place. Tidal Force was the best water-themed ride. The food wasn’t that great. It’s best to buy these tickets when they’re online or on a deal. Overall, it’s a good place to visit this summer.

Kina N — Google review

Loved my time at Hersheypark. Even though I don’t particularly like roller coasters, I was able to enjoy smaller rides with my niece while the rest of the family enjoyed the big ones. Staff are friendly and helpful to guests. And there is plenty of places to just sit and take in the family friendly environment/atmosphere. I drove from VA and I think it was worth it. Definitely a hit over old Kings Dominion.

Pr!ncess A — Google review

We had another great visit to Hershey Park today! We love this park. We especially enjoy the Halloween events. There is something for everyone here - kiddie rides, family rides, roller coasters, dining, arcades, games, shopping. The lines vary from ride to ride. You have the opportunity to buy a fast track pass for an additional cost to get on the rides without waiting. We ate dinner in the park and the food was pretty good to be from a kiosk. The prices are what you would expect: expensive. All staff members were kind and helpful, the restrooms we used were clean and well stocked. The park offers water fill up stations, so bring your own refillable water bottle to save money. Overall, we had an awesome day and we can’t wait to come back!

Brandi W — Google review

Hersheypark is AMAZING. What else can you say. This has been on our bucket list for years and now we are finally able to scratch it off of our list. It was just an amazing experience. We can’t wait to come back again. Now we can confirm how much fun you could have. It makes you feel like a kid again.

Richard M — Google review

My family went on a road trip from New Jersey to Ohio in search of an elusive national fencing title for my husband. We drove past Hershey Park on our way to Columbus and promised the kids that we would stop by on the return journey. As soon as we stepped inside the park, we ran into a friend. My kids loved the tide pool and lazy river, and the rides were top notch. On our way to the parking lot, we could hear the start of a Blink-182 concert in the attached arena.

Kathy Z — Google review

A wonderful piece of Pennsylvania history, Hersheypark offers so much to see, to do, and to taste. Choose from a variety of tours. Eat at an onsite restaurant. Make your own candy bar. It is a must-experience place to visit!

Theresa E — Google review

It's cool to walk around the park even if you're not so into rollercoasters. It can get crowded at times, but it's still large enough of a park that you don't feel too confined. Wait times are not horribly long but not super short either. The park is definitely geared more towards people who like big rollercoasters.

Nicole — Google review

Some of the rides were closed but the rides that were open were good. Although it was around Christmas time that we visited, still had lots of people in the lines. I suggest getting in early when the park opens to get on your favorite rides. Towards 4 PM started to see more people getting in, as they have beautiful holiday lights decorated all over the park.

Chandra K — Google review

Went here during a camping trip in December of 2021. They had the park decorated for Christmas. Tons of lights. Lots of activities. They had seasonal foods and drinks. Only a fraction of the rides were operational during this time of year (cold). We had a blast. We saw Saint Nick, his reindeer, beautiful displays… we took a ride on their monorail which gives you a spectacular Birds Eye view of the park. This is all happening in the evening mind you. It was a great experience and got us in the Christmas spirit big time. Dressing in layers is a must. Make sure the kiddies are bundled up. PA is quite cold in December.

Fast F — Google review

Hershey Park in the wintertime is absolutely beautiful! Lights everywhere and the reindeer are adorable. The staff watching over the reindeer are very knowledgeable and happy to give any information you may need. Not all of the rides are open during the off season but you don't have to deal with the long lines of the summer.

Steven S — Google review

There were more lights out, then the light display they had turned on.Do not waste your money here, go to bush gardens for a true Christmas experience. The light display was sad most of the lights were out, the shops were shutting down before five. The tree boardwalk was just one giant ad for local companies. Including the hotel room and park tickets we spent over 1,000 dollars for a sad experience. There were so many dark paths with no lights at all. The best thing about the park was zoo America.

C B — Google review

Feels like a childhood fictional dream. Worth planning a day trip and enjoying the various attractions around the park. Plenty of food options and the attractions will cater to everyone young or old so all age groups are sure to have an amazing time.Don’t miss their exclusive range of hershey bars only available there. They also have kisses flavors from around the world.If you are eating at the food court, i highly recommend their smores.

Riya J — Google review

4.5

(58432)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (13)

4.0

(7852)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (14)

100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA 17033, USA

(800) 437-7439

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40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (15)

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Strasburg Rail Road

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Heritage railroad

The Strasburg Rail Road is a tourist attraction located in Ronks, PA that offers rides on old-fashioned locomotive trains. The railway cuts across the Amish country, providing passengers with beautiful views while they travel.

This place is incredible!Everything is beautiful, calm, to enjoy, adults and children, everyone is happy. We have been with my children many times at different times of the year and we always enjoy them. The food is excellent, the people friendly, happy.The bathrooms, something so important to me 😅, impeccable, always!Strasburg a place that everyone should go, even if the trains don't attract you, but I think it's impossible 😂.The train rides are so beautiful and the locomotives are impressive and Beautiful too. The days with Thomas, my children are so happy! I’m sure that you will have a wonderful time with your family.😃

Ana A — Google review

This is a place where you create memories; whether you are a family, or an individual. You will keep coming back. I love the trains, and the shops! This is a great attraction, and you have the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania across the road. If you are a train enthusiast, or just love history; this is the place to see. Trains represent progress, and they were a vital lifeline to many people then and now. The nostalgia is represented in the shops, and little souvenirs that you can take with you. I love seeing the excitement of people when they see the trains in action. The sights, sounds, and smell of the trains is something for sure!

Michael A — Google review

45 minute ride through Amish Country.My sister and I just got to Lancaster had a little time before check in at the red caboose and decided to do the last trip of the day which was 3 pm . Had to be there by 2:30 we made it !We took the open air car off of the recommendations of reviews I read . So glad I did. The cool breeze, and being able to take pictures so easily . Plus, you could walk to the end of the train outside and watch how everything works. Kids really loved this area.I think this was the perfect start for a vacation . So relaxing also after a 2 1/2 hour drive from DC.I think if I would’ve spent a day or two driving around Amish country and then did that it might have been a little boring .Highly recommend for families. Or anyone that’s just starting out their vacation in Amish country.

KS — Google review

I recently visited The Strasburg Rail Road and had a great experience!Even before arriving, I called the customer service line and received answers to my questions and insight into what to expect. The website has tons of great information as well.We visited to take in the fall foliage and Lancaster County farm scenery. The weather was perfect, and the train ride was excellent -- with luxurious comfort seating (premium cars). They even offer drinks and snacks on the ride (45 minutes). There was a senior in my group who needed a lift onto and off the train -- they had it covered (you must let them know when you arrive).I visited during October and the entire area was well decorated for the Fall and Halloween. I didn't have time to visit the shops and 1832 restaurant -- but I'm sure they provided great offerings as well.The staff (at the ticket booth, the operator of the lift for the train, the snack staff onboard, and the conductors) were professional, friendly, outstanding, and accommodating.Thank you to the entire Strasburg Rail Road Team! Truly a wonderful visit and we will be back again!

Mike E — Google review

We got tickets for 11 am trip, in upgraded section with plush swivel chairs (First class lounge). Snacks and drives available, but we didn't need for the 45 min trip. The car was clean, spacious, and comfortable. Station has cafe, shipped and entertainment. History was clear with steam engines and museum next door. Fun family excursion!

Nicole W — Google review

This place is amazing!! It's like traveling back in time when you ride on the train. It's very well preserved, the seats are comfortable, the train cars are clean and the staff is very friendly. It is such a great place to visit with family/friends, and little kids have a great time. They have plenty of fun activities and you can buy tickets online or at the station. I recommend checking out the website for days and times availability, and try to get there early because they are very punctual with the the departures. I only wish the ride would be longer, but it is a great experience at a very good price.

Claudia R — Google review

We took our son and daughter to ride the train. It was really an awesome experience! The kids loved it! We rode in the first class car Marian 88. It was beautifully restored. We were comfortable the whole ride. We definitely recommend it to others. We plan to come back and explore more of what they have an offer.

Destiny S — Google review

"A Day with Thomas" at Strasburg Railroad was a huge success. I recommend arriving early as you'll have access to the parking lot & closer parking. It gets busy, but it didn't seem crowded. The lines to activities & areas involving pictures were not long. The staff was all very friendly & knowledgeable of the trains & history. The train ride was beautiful & peaceful; nothing like a ride through the fields of Lancaster County.

Kevin F — Google review

I never did the train ride before after many years of visiting Lancaster area. It was definitely something u should do if you have children. My daughter and nieces loved it as well as my sisters and I

Sally S — Google review

I’ve been to the Strasburg Rail Rd., many times over the years. It is the it is the oldest continuous running short line in America. The trains are spectacular. The people that take care of the trains and the customer service is phenomenal. I’ve loved Trains since I was a child, this is a fun filled family place check out the videos that I have some or a little bit short because you can only do 30 second clips on this platform. I can’t wait to go again before winter time. Tickets $16 for kids 2-11 $24 for adults so many more packages they have and events, check out the website for details.

Itwerk4 D — Google review

We had the best time here! We did the Christmas train ride with our own private car- the President’s car. Highly recommend! It’s stunning! It was fun to have snacks and a visit from Santa! It was romantic and memorable!

Courtney D — Google review

This is a great experience for anyone of any age. It was awesome seeing the trains that are over 100 years old come down the tracks with smoke coming out from the stack. The carts have working coal stoves inside the cart itself to keep you warm. Everyone who works there is super polite and very helpful. I loved seeing the people in character, it takes you back to a much simpler time and place. There's also a small ride on locomotive for the kids and crank cars that are also alot of fun! Food prices are a little high as with any place nowadays. Right across the street from the train station is the train museum and it is awesome! If you're i to trains you'll want to visit there. Affordable price as well. $10 a person. Enjoy!

Cathy H — Google review

I love movies featuring historic trains, but this might be the first time I've ridden one in real life - I'm totally obsessed! This is inspired me to start seeking out other historic railroads. The 45 minute ride was educational with gorgeous view of the Lancaster County countryside, and the train cars are both comfy and beautiful. Even sitting on the shady benches waiting for the train was part of the magical experience.

R — Google review

Today we visited the Strasburg Railroad in Strasburg PA to take a train ride and to Santa!!! This was a surprise trip for the our 3 youngest ones. If you are planning a visit to Lancaster County PA Strasburg Railroad is a must visit. The train ride is about 45 minutes and takes you through scenic farm land. This ride included a visit with Santa and Mrs Clause (Mrs Clause was in one of the shops and not on the train ride but included with the tickets). Carolers and a brass band. My boys loved every minute of it and were smiling from ear to ear.

Timothy P — Google review

We had a wonderful time here. We got here an hour before our boarding time. We cam specifically for a ride with the beautiful 611. The people here were great. There was lots of enthusiasm from ever person that worked there. They termed it a dream job. The workers on the platform were very helpful and happy! We watched the second steam train come in and out. It was really neat to see. When our time came, we boarded the “ Presidential Car”! It was a Pullman Car made in our home town of Butler, Pennsylvania. The original car was absolutely gorgeous. It was built for a wealthy Philadelphia businessman. The woodworking was exquisite. It was broken down into about 5 or 6 compartments. We were able to sit in one of the smaller compartments with just enough room for two people. I can describe just how nice this suite was. We were served wine and a snack. The conductor came through checking tickets. There were so many people taking pictures of this streamlined gem of a steam train. The ride was really enjoyable. At every passing there were so many people stopped and watching the train roll by. The ride was about an hour long up the line and back. We felt we went back in time for the entire trip. Even the music they placed was from back generations ago. The 611 probably won’t be there long, but if you get a chance even to ride with the regular coal burner, go for it. You won’t regret it!

Mikey8 S — Google review

I went with my Uncle to ride the 611 before it left, the entry is free, but the train ride cost $40 per ticket - which was utterly worth the ride. This place is wonderful! I'll be returning to ride another one. The additional things this place has and the other local things that kids can do is wonderful. The gift shop, the toys-only gift shop, and the photo options and restaurant are all great additions. This place was wonderful to visit after a 3 1/2 hour drive!

Amy O — Google review

I think I was about 12 when my parents first brought my sister and me to ride the train. Now we have a 12 year old grandchild! The station village is prettier than ever, the staff is helpful and goes the extra mile. This time we enjoyed our trip in one of the lounge cars. Beautiful!

Brandywine L — Google review

A gorgeous ride, through the countryside! We chose the open air car, which I highly recommend. The train was in pristine condition, and the atmosphere, both on the train and at the station, was a lot of fun. The ride was about 15 min, in length, each way. Our favorite part of the ride was traveling through Cherry Crest Adventure Farm and exchanging waves with everyone there. Cherry Crest Adventure Farm is an incredible place, by the way, but I’ll save that for another review. ;) The only part of the train ride that disappointed my family was that the photographer aboard chose to take our family’s picture, in the town of Paradise, which is anything but picturesque. We didn’t purchase the picture because the background was awful. If the photograph had been taken in Strasburg instead, with the station as the background, or in the countryside, we would have purchased it. But, this is a minor detail, and doesn’t affect the fact that we thoroughly enjoyed the ride!

Cristen R — Google review

Great ride! Wonderful tour of the local countryside. Coach car was very comfortable. Looks like they have toilets on board. The coal stoves in each car work VERY WELL, according to the conductor, so winter rides should be a treat!

Steven D — Google review

Was super excited to try Strasburg. It had been on my must do list for some time.The train was quite nice. We were in a first class parlor car 88 which was not open air and had refreshment service as well as snacks. That was enjoyable. What I didn't like was I couldn't hear what the announcer was saying at all. The narrated tour was not heard. Unless you were seated right in the middle of the car it was impossible to hear. Also the ride isn't actually 45 minutes. You are on the train that long but there are times you are stopped. I guess that's protocol. It was enjoyable but not what I expected. On a side note if you have young children you may want to choose another car other than this one such as the open air. Parents of children in this car on that day were opening the windows for their children. Not a good idea and it hinders the enjoyment of the other guests on board.

Vickie M — Google review

The steam train is awesome, the playground is also awesome for kids. It was a great day for my grandson,wife and I. We went on a Friday and that was a good time to go. The toy store is packed with good things. I highly recommend this to any family.

Robert C — Google review

We had an absolutely lovely time at Strassburg! A group of us went for the lunch train ride and had a wonderful time. The food was great, hot, and ready as soon as we boarded. The ride itself was a lot of fun with beautiful scenery and great information! The staff were just excellent and made sure we were well taken care of. It is such a great place to go to and I highly recommend anybody who has an interest in trains to go embark on this wonderful experience to all the staff for such a wonderful time and I Hope to return one day soon!

Nicholas D — Google review

Strasburg RAIL ROAD RIDE - Diner car$$ = about 50.00 I recommend skipping and go general admissionI had an excellent experience on the RR ride. It goes very slow so you get your 9 miles worth for the price as the views are very cool. What makes the trip worth it was the inside of the train, like you stepped back in time. Everything looks very authentic.I paid for food service which was good; the attendant was dutiful and friendly. For the 20.00 additional, I got a wrap, chips and cookie. You had to buy soda and beverages extra which I didn't like for the lunch price.When I go again, I will just take the regular car - no food. I found eating distracted from taking in the sites and the ride, not to mention I want to try the station cafe. I recommend bringing bottled soda or water with you.

Louis — Google review

This was a awesome experience to go on the train ride. Not only my kids was excited but me and my husband too. Its a quick ride but its all about the history how it was working before, what was around this route. Its like you experience the ride like in the movie Polar Express. Defenetly recomend this place for kids and adults.

Irina L — Google review

I was on of 4 who spent a Monday at the Strasburg railroad. We had reservations for the shop tour and thoroughly enjoyed it. Our tour guide, Aaron actually works in the shop. He was so knowledgeable and happy to answer the many questions we had. Get tour tickets for this ahead of your trip ..it is worth it.Train ride was pleasant and had a great of the beautiful amish farmland. Just the sound of a steam engine is cool.

Heidi P — Google review

We took our parents and grandchildren to the Santa's Paradise Express last Saturday and had an awesome experience and made great memories. Plenty of parking. The only downside was not enough handicapped parking. It was a walk. We arrived about 45 minutes before our departure like they suggested. This gave us ample time to check in, look around and grab some hot cocoa and a snack at the café. The train ride was a great experience with carolers, and Santa while enjoying the beautiful views around Lancaster. The granddaughters enjoyed themselves. When we were done we had time to get our photos and look around some more. Great memories were made! Thank you! Definitely worth the trip!

Millie F — Google review

Perfectly well preserved and well taken care train and station. There are different tickets you can buy but we bought the regular coach. It was a good experience and the train took us thru rural fields and good scenery. There are other activities but was closed when we were there.

Binod G — Google review

We enjoyed the “Twas The Night Before Christmas” train ride the weekend before Christmas! The train decorations were beautiful and the atmosphere cozy! Buy your tickets ahead of time to secure a ride! I give it 4 stars because it was not very clear that you needed an upgraded ticket to get. Hot cocoa with you cookies instead of milk and the order/ series of events on the train ride we’re not made clear so some times we were not sure what was going to happen. But overall a sweet Christmas experience!!

Sarah O — Google review

This is the best railroad ever. We always go every month and that will continue for ever. Thank you crew for riding your beautiful trains. We rode all three trains and expecting to ride them even more. Keep up this great work. Recommended to always go here.

Norfolk M — Google review

4.7

(4153)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (20)

4.5

(5155)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (21)

301 Gap Rd, Ronks, PA 17572, USA

(866) 725-9666

4

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

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Visitor center

Sights & Landmarks

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is a renowned destination that features scenic trails and an indoor museum dedicated to the Civil War. In 2008, the center moved to a state-of-the-art facility costing $103 million, offering visitors an exceptional experience. The center offers informative movies and knowledgeable guides for students, making it an ideal location for history lovers of all ages.

Always love Gettysburg. Haven’t been here in a number if years. The visitor’s center is great and the overview movie very informative. Had a wonderful guide for our students. Very knowledgeable and gave plenty of information. So much to see and learn.

Brian S — Google review

What an amazing experience this place is! The vast size of this battlefield is awe inspiring. Over 70,000 men lost their lives battling over a 24 acre piece of land, to either keep or do away with slavery. To learn and to actually be able to visualize how far a canon ball weighing 8 pounds could be launched a mile away with a canon two hundred years ago is truly incredible. The museum displays of the uniforms, handguns, rifles and various artifacts is extensive.I enjoyed the bus tour with the tour guide.It was interesting and fun to hear the narrative of the battle and learn about the little to unknown facts about the battle.In order to experience the entire Gettysburg site, it is easily a two day trip.For convenience, there is a small cafeteria in the main building. The new museum building was.built in 2008 and is very clean and modern. There is a good sized souvenir shop in the main building as well. There are also numerous nearby hotels, souvenir shops and restaurants in the City of Gettysburg.For the history buff, this is a must see place to visit.

Jaime B — Google review

What a day! The employees were all kind & informative & our tour guide on the bus was great. Thanks John. Gift shop had something for everyone. Highly recommend the bus tour then driving self on automotive tour (a self drive). They even have many options for free.

Paula S — Google review

My wife needed a wheelchair and the staff were really helpful in getting her one and they helped at all the exhibit entrances. The cyclorama is completely different in a very good way from the use of lights, simulated cannon and gunfire and the narration of events. I went last time 25 years ago but this time they brought it to life.When it gets close to 5 be ready to exit quickly and that includes the gift shop. The rest rooms are cordoned off too.If you have a disabled member of your family take them to the drop off point with benches and then go to the disabled parking which is a 1/4 mile walk to the front entrance.

Gary N — Google review

This is one of the best museum experiences you can have. The museum is filled with history. Don't miss the movie and rotunda experience. The battlefield is HUGE! I recommend doing the auto tour if this is your first visit. There is a beautiful cafeteria with plenty of choices if you get hungry. If your bringing your own food thier are plenty of picnic tables and benches.

Rob S — Google review

So beautiful.Well preserved.It feels alive with all the canons and monuments.Fences look like they have always been here.A must see if you are a fan of history.Get a map and follow the self guided tour. You will not be disappointed.

David W — Google review

What an incredible place. I didn't have enough time to truly explore the entirety of it, as it is so incredibly vast. The bus tour was well worth the money, and comes with a very nice driver and a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Highly recommend that everyone should go, if possible, take a few days to really take it all in. I plan to return for a few days to hike it.

Tori L — Google review

Amazing history! You really get a feel for the place where 51,000 lost their lives over a three day time period. I started to whistle while we walked, and then stopped as this is hallowed ground. Beautiful area.

Kristen A — Google review

History lesson at its best. Recommend starting with Cyclorama & Narrated movie to help put all the pieces together. So much took place over the 3 days of the fighting, that it is so helpful to get the overview. There is an App for the battlefield tour that guides you along the way. Very effective. There is also an App for all of the National Parks that adds extra content before heading out. Parking lots full of licenses from all over the US.

Daryl H — Google review

My significant other and I went here on vacation and it was wonderful. They have packages that are affordable, including a bus tour, and access to the museum. The park rangers do a lot of informative activities as well that are free. You could easily spend an entire day here between the tours (they have a self guided car version, an informative bus tour), the museum, and the additional activities run by the museum and parks department. The gift shop is beautiful, and reasonable as well. The staff at the front desk was very helpful and informative about what to take advantage of. I would visit here again if given the opportunity.

Zoe W — Google review

I would give it a 5 star but the cost to get in makes in inaccessible to many people. (Just over $20 as of Nov. 2023). The movie was a great summary of what led to the battle at Gettysburg and touched on the aftermath. It was better than I had expected.The cyclorama was impressive when you learn that it is an actual oil painting from the turn of the century - and moved to Gettysburg in 1913. It went through a restoration and if you are a fan of history or art, this is a must see.

Randi A — Google review

Great experience with the family. One of the rangers was amazing teaching our daughter more about Gettysburg. We enjoys the self guided tour (the app is free and has audio to go with the tour) and the monuments had great descriptions to them. Really felt Abraham Lincoln’s words while reading the Gettysburg address at the cemetery.

Kyle J — Google review

Amazing experience. Very moving. The museum is well done and the cyclorama was fantastic! We also took the Gettysburg tour bus around the battlefields. The tour guide was knowledgeable and had a sense of humor. If you're in the area its well worth the stop.

Roseanne V — Google review

The best place to understand the history of United States 🇺🇸.Is the only and unique opportunity to feel, learn and see the artifacts of the Civil War. This place is outstanding.You can link the experience with other Histories places in PA and follow up the past, the present and the future. The museum has one of the biggest oil painting in the world which describes the reality of the battlefield of Gettysburg vs General Lee.If you willing to learn our freedom and why was important the emancipation, go and visit this area.Highly recommend: schedule a private tour for 3 hours and let the professional guide diving you to the past of the history.Unforgettable experience.Top 10 places to visit in PA.Stay in a local hotel. You will need plenty of time to walk, read and enjoy the activities.

Harold H — Google review

We took the auto tour and loved it!! It took us about 2 hours and it is GPS driven. Very informative and gives you plenty of opportunity to get out and take pictures or get a closer look. The tour made us realize that we want to come back to the area and spend more time here. There are so many different things to do and see we can't wait to return!

Dave C — Google review

I really enjoyed the walk through History. We used the national park app and we were able to enjoy the story being told to us at each one of the stops. The Monuments were beautiful and the park was well taken care of.

Joshua L — Google review

Went to Gettysburg Battlefield today. The grounds, the museum & visitor center were very informative. The staff we encountered were professional, courteous & cheerful. The visit had meaning, and was a thoughtful experience. I recommend you go there! Check it out!

Frank S — Google review

Gettysburg National Military Park-AMAZING!I am a lover of American history and have visited many historical sights, memorials, and battlefields, Gettysburg is one of the best I have seen.The number of monuments, markers, and displays not only in the museum but all around the battlefield is just incredible.From the video in the visitor's center/ museum to the driving path, there is so much to see and learn.We downloaded the National Parks app which has a link to a free audio-guided tour. Loved it!I suggest- seeing the video, seeing the museum, driving the tour with the audio guide, and seeing the Gettysburg cemetery. See the spot where Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address.

Jason S — Google review

What a fabulous place. This is one of the cleanest and nicest places we have visited. The respect people have for this is amazing. The film, cyclamen and museum are wonderful and very moving. The staff is fantastic. We loved it! The auto tour was also great for us. We could take our time.

Donna S — Google review

This is a must place to visit when you are in Gettysburg. Great place to learn about our history. Highly recommend this place for any age. They have a junior ranger program for kids. You would need a minumum of 3-4 hrs just for the museum alone. Very educational. Interesting facts and exhibits. Everyone was friendly and accomodating. They have a gift shop too. Overall a great experience.

F&I — Google review

I have promised myself many years ago to make this trip to this hallowed ground and I finally made it. The aura of this place is unique and the monuments,along with the excellent museum can really touch the visitor. I feel blessed for this experience.

Pardalis G — Google review

National Parks have done a really excellent job in how they present the entire Military Park, including the Gettysburg Military Museum. It was very very impressive (and sad at the same time). Would certainly recommend a visit.

Andrew R — Google review

The Gettysburg Battlefield stands as a solemn testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought there. Walking through its hallowed grounds, one can't help but feel a profound sense of reverence for the thousands who gave their lives in the struggle for freedom. The meticulously preserved landscapes and monuments serve as poignant reminders of the brutality and heroism that unfolded during those fateful days in July 1863. Visiting Gettysburg is not merely a journey through history; it's a pilgrimage to honor the enduring legacy of those who fought and died for a cause greater than themselves.

Rich W — Google review

This is a really nice park, very educational, and very clean. The prices in the gift shops and restaurants are on the higher side, but that’s to be expected at a tourist trap. I downloaded one of the self-guided tours for my iPhone, and I have to say that it was one of the best things that I've done while visiting Gettysburg. The tour was extremely informative, and it's well laid out and worked well with my Google Maps, so I knew exactly where to go.

Thomas P — Google review

I agree with that don't eat here because the prices are ridiculous and it's not run by the park service or anybody at the visitor center. It's like a third-party hired out café and the food is really bad quality.! The museum bookstore had an author signing, so we looked out and got a historical book for our son, author: William Styple signed! there's some snacks available there lots of historical books, lotta tchotchkes it seemed very commercialized like you can get a coffee mug with Gettysburg and Abraham Lincoln bubblehead lol. bus tours are $40 for adults. I can't remember the prices for kids and they have four of those that leave Daley. It looks like I'm not sure if it's going to change later in spring or summer hours and the visitor center is nice and the upkeep is nice, and the restrooms are clean. Very windy out on the battlefield. there is a tour where you sit in your car and watch a couple videos at various stop so you can get out and then there's the walking tour that takes about an hour and a half and then there's the bus tours that take about two hours..My family recommends the auto & walking tours, download the app. Learning about an important war in our country, shouldn't be considered a Tour strap and shouldn't be so much money specially if people need chip jars so apparently they're not getting paid a living wage which is a whole other story but yes, recommend going to Gettysburg at least once in your life and it's quite educational if you download the free tour...

Super L — Google review

Hard to understand the battle of Gettysburg without ever visiting the site. We tried to do the driving tour in two hours but didn't finish. I would recommend at least 2 days just to be able to get a good grasp of the site.

Tim T — Google review

My husband and I experience the film/cyclorama/museum and Gettysburg bus tour offered by the Gettysburg National Military Museum and Visitors Center. We highly recommend all of these! Excellent experiences. Amazing tour and tour guide.

Theresa E — Google review

Amazing history and great park. Bookstore was huge and the self guided car tour was fantastic. This is a must see for every American and travelers the same. Solidify our history in our hearts and learn what it took to be what we are today!The park center is new and very spacious with plenty to see. Check out the presentation and learn about the way at Gettysburg. Large bookstore with tons of history and lots for the kids as well.Don’t forget your passport stamps.

Jessy H — Google review

What a great experience and a chance to learn about our American history. It’s well worth taking the bus tour.

Steven H — Google review

2024–05-04 - 5 StarsRained the day we were there but other wise was a great day.We will return to see more of what we missed.Plan on packing your own lunch or snack. The restaurant in side is WAY OVERPRICED and not that great. Average at best. Over 75 dollars for 3 people and you get plastic utensils. Again don’t waste your time or money on the restaurant.

JS R — Google review

I visited on a Thursday morning. We were on our way home so had limited time. Staff was very friendly and helpful. We unfortunately did not have the time to go thru the museum. What I read indicates you need 4 hours. There is one hall that you can view for free. It consists of a lot of items that have been found on the battleground. It was very interesting. They have a map of the battleground park available however it is not very accurate. Google was very helpful finding the memorials we wanted to see. We look forward to coming back and spending more time. The park is well maintained and well labeled. There are a lot of options for how you tour the park. Self-guided, with a group and there are options for private guides. The heritage guides even dress up. You can use guides from the park itself and there are lots of companies that offer guides as well.

April W — Google review

The cyclorama is an amazing experience both in presentation and as an actual piece of history itself. It could easily take 2 days for a history buff to properly tour the museum and the gift shop prices were lower than expected.

Chris S — Google review

4.8

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5.0

(8480)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (27)

1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, USA

(877) 874-2478

5

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

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Visitor center

Sights & Landmarks

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is a renowned destination that features scenic trails and an indoor museum dedicated to the Civil War. In 2008, the center moved to a state-of-the-art facility costing $103 million, offering visitors an exceptional experience. The center offers informative movies and knowledgeable guides for students, making it an ideal location for history lovers of all ages.

Always love Gettysburg. Haven’t been here in a number if years. The visitor’s center is great and the overview movie very informative. Had a wonderful guide for our students. Very knowledgeable and gave plenty of information. So much to see and learn.

Brian S — Google review

What an amazing experience this place is! The vast size of this battlefield is awe inspiring. Over 70,000 men lost their lives battling over a 24 acre piece of land, to either keep or do away with slavery. To learn and to actually be able to visualize how far a canon ball weighing 8 pounds could be launched a mile away with a canon two hundred years ago is truly incredible. The museum displays of the uniforms, handguns, rifles and various artifacts is extensive.I enjoyed the bus tour with the tour guide.It was interesting and fun to hear the narrative of the battle and learn about the little to unknown facts about the battle.In order to experience the entire Gettysburg site, it is easily a two day trip.For convenience, there is a small cafeteria in the main building. The new museum building was.built in 2008 and is very clean and modern. There is a good sized souvenir shop in the main building as well. There are also numerous nearby hotels, souvenir shops and restaurants in the City of Gettysburg.For the history buff, this is a must see place to visit.

Jaime B — Google review

What a day! The employees were all kind & informative & our tour guide on the bus was great. Thanks John. Gift shop had something for everyone. Highly recommend the bus tour then driving self on automotive tour (a self drive). They even have many options for free.

Paula S — Google review

My wife needed a wheelchair and the staff were really helpful in getting her one and they helped at all the exhibit entrances. The cyclorama is completely different in a very good way from the use of lights, simulated cannon and gunfire and the narration of events. I went last time 25 years ago but this time they brought it to life.When it gets close to 5 be ready to exit quickly and that includes the gift shop. The rest rooms are cordoned off too.If you have a disabled member of your family take them to the drop off point with benches and then go to the disabled parking which is a 1/4 mile walk to the front entrance.

Gary N — Google review

This is one of the best museum experiences you can have. The museum is filled with history. Don't miss the movie and rotunda experience. The battlefield is HUGE! I recommend doing the auto tour if this is your first visit. There is a beautiful cafeteria with plenty of choices if you get hungry. If your bringing your own food thier are plenty of picnic tables and benches.

Rob S — Google review

So beautiful.Well preserved.It feels alive with all the canons and monuments.Fences look like they have always been here.A must see if you are a fan of history.Get a map and follow the self guided tour. You will not be disappointed.

David W — Google review

What an incredible place. I didn't have enough time to truly explore the entirety of it, as it is so incredibly vast. The bus tour was well worth the money, and comes with a very nice driver and a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Highly recommend that everyone should go, if possible, take a few days to really take it all in. I plan to return for a few days to hike it.

Tori L — Google review

Amazing history! You really get a feel for the place where 51,000 lost their lives over a three day time period. I started to whistle while we walked, and then stopped as this is hallowed ground. Beautiful area.

Kristen A — Google review

History lesson at its best. Recommend starting with Cyclorama & Narrated movie to help put all the pieces together. So much took place over the 3 days of the fighting, that it is so helpful to get the overview. There is an App for the battlefield tour that guides you along the way. Very effective. There is also an App for all of the National Parks that adds extra content before heading out. Parking lots full of licenses from all over the US.

Daryl H — Google review

My significant other and I went here on vacation and it was wonderful. They have packages that are affordable, including a bus tour, and access to the museum. The park rangers do a lot of informative activities as well that are free. You could easily spend an entire day here between the tours (they have a self guided car version, an informative bus tour), the museum, and the additional activities run by the museum and parks department. The gift shop is beautiful, and reasonable as well. The staff at the front desk was very helpful and informative about what to take advantage of. I would visit here again if given the opportunity.

Zoe W — Google review

I would give it a 5 star but the cost to get in makes in inaccessible to many people. (Just over $20 as of Nov. 2023). The movie was a great summary of what led to the battle at Gettysburg and touched on the aftermath. It was better than I had expected.The cyclorama was impressive when you learn that it is an actual oil painting from the turn of the century - and moved to Gettysburg in 1913. It went through a restoration and if you are a fan of history or art, this is a must see.

Randi A — Google review

Great experience with the family. One of the rangers was amazing teaching our daughter more about Gettysburg. We enjoys the self guided tour (the app is free and has audio to go with the tour) and the monuments had great descriptions to them. Really felt Abraham Lincoln’s words while reading the Gettysburg address at the cemetery.

Kyle J — Google review

Amazing experience. Very moving. The museum is well done and the cyclorama was fantastic! We also took the Gettysburg tour bus around the battlefields. The tour guide was knowledgeable and had a sense of humor. If you're in the area its well worth the stop.

Roseanne V — Google review

The best place to understand the history of United States 🇺🇸.Is the only and unique opportunity to feel, learn and see the artifacts of the Civil War. This place is outstanding.You can link the experience with other Histories places in PA and follow up the past, the present and the future. The museum has one of the biggest oil painting in the world which describes the reality of the battlefield of Gettysburg vs General Lee.If you willing to learn our freedom and why was important the emancipation, go and visit this area.Highly recommend: schedule a private tour for 3 hours and let the professional guide diving you to the past of the history.Unforgettable experience.Top 10 places to visit in PA.Stay in a local hotel. You will need plenty of time to walk, read and enjoy the activities.

Harold H — Google review

We took the auto tour and loved it!! It took us about 2 hours and it is GPS driven. Very informative and gives you plenty of opportunity to get out and take pictures or get a closer look. The tour made us realize that we want to come back to the area and spend more time here. There are so many different things to do and see we can't wait to return!

Dave C — Google review

I really enjoyed the walk through History. We used the national park app and we were able to enjoy the story being told to us at each one of the stops. The Monuments were beautiful and the park was well taken care of.

Joshua L — Google review

Went to Gettysburg Battlefield today. The grounds, the museum & visitor center were very informative. The staff we encountered were professional, courteous & cheerful. The visit had meaning, and was a thoughtful experience. I recommend you go there! Check it out!

Frank S — Google review

Gettysburg National Military Park-AMAZING!I am a lover of American history and have visited many historical sights, memorials, and battlefields, Gettysburg is one of the best I have seen.The number of monuments, markers, and displays not only in the museum but all around the battlefield is just incredible.From the video in the visitor's center/ museum to the driving path, there is so much to see and learn.We downloaded the National Parks app which has a link to a free audio-guided tour. Loved it!I suggest- seeing the video, seeing the museum, driving the tour with the audio guide, and seeing the Gettysburg cemetery. See the spot where Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address.

Jason S — Google review

What a fabulous place. This is one of the cleanest and nicest places we have visited. The respect people have for this is amazing. The film, cyclamen and museum are wonderful and very moving. The staff is fantastic. We loved it! The auto tour was also great for us. We could take our time.

Donna S — Google review

This is a must place to visit when you are in Gettysburg. Great place to learn about our history. Highly recommend this place for any age. They have a junior ranger program for kids. You would need a minumum of 3-4 hrs just for the museum alone. Very educational. Interesting facts and exhibits. Everyone was friendly and accomodating. They have a gift shop too. Overall a great experience.

F&I — Google review

I have promised myself many years ago to make this trip to this hallowed ground and I finally made it. The aura of this place is unique and the monuments,along with the excellent museum can really touch the visitor. I feel blessed for this experience.

Pardalis G — Google review

National Parks have done a really excellent job in how they present the entire Military Park, including the Gettysburg Military Museum. It was very very impressive (and sad at the same time). Would certainly recommend a visit.

Andrew R — Google review

The Gettysburg Battlefield stands as a solemn testament to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought there. Walking through its hallowed grounds, one can't help but feel a profound sense of reverence for the thousands who gave their lives in the struggle for freedom. The meticulously preserved landscapes and monuments serve as poignant reminders of the brutality and heroism that unfolded during those fateful days in July 1863. Visiting Gettysburg is not merely a journey through history; it's a pilgrimage to honor the enduring legacy of those who fought and died for a cause greater than themselves.

Rich W — Google review

This is a really nice park, very educational, and very clean. The prices in the gift shops and restaurants are on the higher side, but that’s to be expected at a tourist trap. I downloaded one of the self-guided tours for my iPhone, and I have to say that it was one of the best things that I've done while visiting Gettysburg. The tour was extremely informative, and it's well laid out and worked well with my Google Maps, so I knew exactly where to go.

Thomas P — Google review

I agree with that don't eat here because the prices are ridiculous and it's not run by the park service or anybody at the visitor center. It's like a third-party hired out café and the food is really bad quality.! The museum bookstore had an author signing, so we looked out and got a historical book for our son, author: William Styple signed! there's some snacks available there lots of historical books, lotta tchotchkes it seemed very commercialized like you can get a coffee mug with Gettysburg and Abraham Lincoln bubblehead lol. bus tours are $40 for adults. I can't remember the prices for kids and they have four of those that leave Daley. It looks like I'm not sure if it's going to change later in spring or summer hours and the visitor center is nice and the upkeep is nice, and the restrooms are clean. Very windy out on the battlefield. there is a tour where you sit in your car and watch a couple videos at various stop so you can get out and then there's the walking tour that takes about an hour and a half and then there's the bus tours that take about two hours..My family recommends the auto & walking tours, download the app. Learning about an important war in our country, shouldn't be considered a Tour strap and shouldn't be so much money specially if people need chip jars so apparently they're not getting paid a living wage which is a whole other story but yes, recommend going to Gettysburg at least once in your life and it's quite educational if you download the free tour...

Super L — Google review

Hard to understand the battle of Gettysburg without ever visiting the site. We tried to do the driving tour in two hours but didn't finish. I would recommend at least 2 days just to be able to get a good grasp of the site.

Tim T — Google review

My husband and I experience the film/cyclorama/museum and Gettysburg bus tour offered by the Gettysburg National Military Museum and Visitors Center. We highly recommend all of these! Excellent experiences. Amazing tour and tour guide.

Theresa E — Google review

Amazing history and great park. Bookstore was huge and the self guided car tour was fantastic. This is a must see for every American and travelers the same. Solidify our history in our hearts and learn what it took to be what we are today!The park center is new and very spacious with plenty to see. Check out the presentation and learn about the way at Gettysburg. Large bookstore with tons of history and lots for the kids as well.Don’t forget your passport stamps.

Jessy H — Google review

What a great experience and a chance to learn about our American history. It’s well worth taking the bus tour.

Steven H — Google review

2024–05-04 - 5 StarsRained the day we were there but other wise was a great day.We will return to see more of what we missed.Plan on packing your own lunch or snack. The restaurant in side is WAY OVERPRICED and not that great. Average at best. Over 75 dollars for 3 people and you get plastic utensils. Again don’t waste your time or money on the restaurant.

JS R — Google review

I visited on a Thursday morning. We were on our way home so had limited time. Staff was very friendly and helpful. We unfortunately did not have the time to go thru the museum. What I read indicates you need 4 hours. There is one hall that you can view for free. It consists of a lot of items that have been found on the battleground. It was very interesting. They have a map of the battleground park available however it is not very accurate. Google was very helpful finding the memorials we wanted to see. We look forward to coming back and spending more time. The park is well maintained and well labeled. There are a lot of options for how you tour the park. Self-guided, with a group and there are options for private guides. The heritage guides even dress up. You can use guides from the park itself and there are lots of companies that offer guides as well.

April W — Google review

The cyclorama is an amazing experience both in presentation and as an actual piece of history itself. It could easily take 2 days for a history buff to properly tour the museum and the gift shop prices were lower than expected.

Chris S — Google review

4.8

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5.0

(8480)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (33)

1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, USA

(877) 874-2478

I'll never travel to Cocoa Beach without this trip planner again

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6

National Aquarium

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Aquarium

Zoos & Aquariums

The National Aquarium of Baltimore is one of the most popular attractions in the city, with a wealth of exhibits exploring different aspects of aquatic life. Highlights include the Tropical Rain Forest, an environment complete with trees, bushes, and waterfalls that can be visited from the forest floor to the treetop canopy, as well as the Upland Tropical Rain Forest, a walk-through exhibit featuring tropical plants and animals found in higher elevations.

We wore our masks. Many people did not.The staff was great. It was a pretty slow day, it seemed. We had a fabulous time.We arrived at 12:45 and left at 4:45. We had a six and seven year old with us. I think we could have used an additional two hours to see *every single* exhibit available. (One of our kids wanted to skip several tanks to get to things she wanted to see.)It was absolutely worth the trip. The staff were really knowledgeable and kind.

Tina H — Google review

Wished this place had parking because come on $50 for Tickets and $30 for parking in some random lot. Make it make sense. Nevertheless, The visit was a nice one. My little one enjoyed her time and that’s all I could ask for. I will say they threw me for a loop when I learned I had to check in my stroller versus using it for her travel through the floors. But hey a little walking never killed anyone. They had a variety of animals fish, mammal and birds a like. Someone was constantly cleaning the facility so that was a nice to see. We went when they were about to close so there wasn’t a lot of people. Would we go again, yes!! Was it worth the visit, yes!! Worth the price, no!! But then again everything is high these days.

Lee L — Google review

Friendly staff and plenty to see for kids and adults. They have dolphins and a rainforest area, as well as a huge shark exhibit. The kids had a great time. Plenty of places inside to grab snacks or drinks. I even saw beer for sale at one of them for the adults. The place is very clean and even though it was crowded when we went there were plenty of exhibits to keep people busy while waiting to trade places. The gift shop has great items. Overall, wonderful experience. Would do it again.

Christy H — Google review

Beautiful place, and a wide range of fish from marine to tropical to see and learn about.When we visited, it was too busy, far too busy. We couldn't move. Literally had to wait until crowds had moved passed fish tanks so we could see. Apart from that, I think the place is great. They just need to limit the amount of people who come in here at any one time.The photos upon entering though, they are far too over priced.Apart from that though, the displays are fantastic. Just limit the amount of people in at any one time and it'll be worthy of more stats in my opinion.

Ant — Google review

Absolutely beautiful aquarium. Exhibits were well curated, the design layout was unique and interesting, and the attention to detail was astounding. All the employees we encountered, especially the animal care staff, were knowledgeable and polite. The conservation messaging was also impeccable. I had a wonderful visit, and I will definitely come back the next time I'm in the area.

Joseph B — Google review

The national was a great place to visit. Fun for all ages. The exhibits were very interesting. Watching the dolphins train was fun as well. It only took about 4hrs to go through it all. I would recommend to anyone looking for something to do.

Michael C — Google review

Such a beautiful experience to see life underwater. The best part is dolphin area and jellyfish section. It’s mesmerizing to see hundreds of different species under one roof. There are multiple levels of this aquarium, each with its own greatness. Love the entire experience. Best for kids! it’s great to see your little ones smile.

Mahnoor T — Google review

If you love going to zoos and aquariums don't pass on a visit to this one. Yes the tickets are a little steep but you will learn much and experience a ton. All the exhibits are very well put together. Kids and adults alike will enjoy every part of the facility. They don't do dolphin shows anymore but if you've ever watched one you'll know these mammals are incredibly intelligent and watching the training sessions is a great and educational experience. Be sure to pick the brains of the people who work here. They'll tell you interesting facts that will make your journey through the aquarium fun. Also be on the lookout for random employees to do feedings at the different exhibits. The food in the maim area is expensive but good.

Tiffany R — Google review

**A Memorable Visit to the National Aquarium**Having had the privilege of visiting the National Aquarium twice in the last four years, I can confidently say that it is truly a delightful place to spend half a day. Whether you are visiting with or without kids, this family-friendly attraction offers an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.One of the highlights of my visits was undoubtedly the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibit. The aquarium boasts a remarkable variety of jellyfish species, each displaying their unique shapes and ethereal movements. It was a truly captivating sight that left me in awe of the wonders of the ocean.However, while the National Aquarium is undeniably wonderful, there were a few factors that prevented me from giving it a perfect five-star rating. Firstly, the price of admission can be quite steep, particularly when visiting with the whole family. It would be more accessible to a wider audience with more reasonable ticket prices.Additionally, having visited a superior aquarium in a mall in South Korea, my expectations were high for the United States' national aquarium. Although it offered a pleasant experience, it fell slightly short of the level of grandeur and innovation that I had anticipated.Nevertheless, the National Aquarium is still an excellent destination to explore marine life and immerse oneself in the wonders of the deep sea. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or looking for a family-friendly activity, this attraction is definitely worth a visit.

Nicole — Google review

I have to say I was unimpressed. I've been to a few aquariums including Atlanta and considering how talked up the National Aquarium is, I expected a great experience. To my surprise the best part was the birds, which are not what you would think would be a stand out feature at an aquarium.I'll start off by pointing out that most of the Aquarium is small tanks displaying various geographical aquatic wildlife with a few big tanks showcasing more variety. The giant walk through (vertical) shark tank is cool but fairly underwhelming in terms of variety. The dolphins are no longer doing shows and they are currently renovating their front tank (late 2023) which means you basically can't see them. The most enjoyable part was the walkthrough nature zones with birds although they are limited in what you actually see.A word of warning... the tanks can strain the eyes just due to the glass and the light refraction. And there are a fair amount of ramps and stairs due to the vertical nature of the aquarium. Also the virtual reality section costs additional money and is not remotely worth it. I'm happy to support wildlife conservation and hope my money is put to good use but between tickets, food, and parking we probably spent $200 and it felt like I was overcharged by at least $100.

James W — Google review

Great place for family fun!! Super clean, very friendly staff. All of the animal seem very happy. We even got to see some divers cleaning the underwater housing to these beautiful sea creatures. They also have some birds and reptiles to look at. You can pet jellyfish and crabs. There's a 4d movie theater and a huge gift shop. Dolphins were fun to watch!

Janelle R — Google review

Overall, it was a really great experience for the entire family. We especially enjoyed, that so many people walked around that could tell you a lot about the different fishes or habitats. The details and love spend in the creation of the different aquariums is great. This actually lets the dolphins look quite sad, since they "just" have a giant swimming pool with no natural decoration.We spent roughly 4 hours in the aquarium and were flashed the entire time. So many details and different kind of fishes, turtles, etc. The organization, how you walk through the building is great. Especially impressive is the long way going deeper and deeper to the ground of the ocean, while the giant sharks are surrounding you.Overall, we would definitely visit the aquarium again!

David S — Google review

National Aquarium, a place that never fails to captivate my heart and imagination. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. I also want to commend the dedicated staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the aquarium's inhabitants and provide an enriching experience for visitors. Their passion and expertise shine through in every interaction, making our visit all the more memorable. In conclusion, if you're looking for a magical escape into the enchanting world beneath the waves, look no further than the National Aquarium. It's an experience that promises to leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Jason N — Google review

I had not been in years, but it really is a unique aquarium. It has a design and atmosphere that stands apart from other aquariums even if they’re larger or have larger exhibits. Quite a lot is packed into this aquarium with also having wild birds and sloths that you can see up close in the Australia Exhibit and the Rainforest Exhibit.Prices also take a dive Fridays after 5, making it a great time to go for 1/2 price.

Rick F — Google review

The National Aquarium is great for all ages but if you have kids 1-5 years old definitely do the annual membership! It’s great in the winter when it’s cold but you need to get out and the heat of the summer too. This round was with teens who didn’t remember it well from early childhood and they still had a great time!

Chris K — Google review

I love the National Aquarium.My wife and I visited and had a great experience. I have been many other times, but am still amazed at what you see here. The facility is modern, clean, and very accessible. And the animals and educational opportunity the provide is really over the top. I'm also glad they have made the decision to better care for dolphins versus using them as a show.My only negative is the price, but managing a facility like this is expensive so I understand.

Zachary H — Google review

Had a great time here. Thought it would be bigger due to other reviews, but still got top to bottom in a few hours. Always fun to watch. Food and souvenirs as always, way too expensive but we get them anyway. (Over 20 bucks for 2 pretzels and 3 cans of drinks.) Would definitely go back, because I like these types of things.

Dario G — Google review

Enjoyed what the National Aquarium had to offer. 5 floors with many different exhibits. Loved the Jellyfish Invasion. Only downplay about the museum experience were, I had came on a day when a school had a field trip so other than having to wait around for the kids it would’ve been a solid 10/10 with that exception 8.5/10

Jovany — Google review

$50 per person. We went on a Monday, no wait time. Very impressive aquarium! It was hard to tell by other reviews what it was like. We were pleasantly surprised how big it was and how modern! Super clean and easy to see everything. It's so cool they have so many big sharks and sting rays. They also have a rainforest section that's amazing! We didn't bring our kids, but they would have loved it!! Highly recommend going, we feel it was definitely worth the cost. The set up of the entire place is a little confusing, but super cool once you figure it out.

Stephanie M — Google review

Wonderful aquarium with a variety of displays, including species from around the world. There is very good accessibility throughout the facility, however, be prepared to wait to see exhibits on busier days. You should buy tickets in advance as they are utilizing timed ticket entry. The gift shop has a variety of options for kids and adults. The snack bar is a bit pricey and offers limited selections.

Michele C — Google review

Great time out with my wife. First time visitors, on a Saturday at 12:15, we were 30 minutes early and they still let us in. Lots of young families… young kids everywhere, but since they weren’t mine I didn’t care. It was a lot of fun and great things to look at. I’m a big guy could have used a bit more ac in some spots but all good.The rainforest was cool, loved the sloth. Sharks were massive, the dolphins were fun hopefully there will be shows again. The dolphin area was a great space to sit and relax for a bit and watch the 6 dolphins do stuff.We did not see any videos and with that being said we walked the entire place in 1 hour. We also didn’t eat there so can say much on price but PARKING…. That was 28.00 so if you can get a bus that might be better.

Chaz F — Google review

Great exhibits, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and good learning opportunities for kids. You have to check this place out at least once! Parking is pretty convenient across the street. It can get a bit crowded midday, so my recommendation is to come on the earlier side.

Bradley C — Google review

Wow. This was a great experience. It was very informative and interesting how different views of ocean life were depicted. There was such a wide variety of fish and sea creatures. There was also a rainforest exhibit that had animals from each level. It was really fun.

Monique B — Google review

this is genuinely one of the best aquariums in the United States. My only complaint is that they recently stopped doing the dolphin shows, but you can still watch them training and entertaining the dolphins all throughout the day. There are plenty of rare exhibits and even hand on exhibits where you can touch some of the aquatic life.

Vaughn M — Google review

Upon entering the aquarium first and foremost, I’d like to see the area is beautiful it was very well kept and organized well. Going into the aquarium was awesome. The layout was perfect and simple to navigate. The animals and enclosures were beautiful and taken care of very nice, I do wish there was more corals but I do understand the complexity of keeping them alive. I also do feel the puffin enclosure can use some touching up more frequently. What really was breathtaking was the dolphins, they don’t do shows there, but they do feed them and do tricks with them. Just seeing the genuine bond they have with the trainers and how intelligent they are was one of a kind. I recommend everyone to head over there and experience the surreal sights of the National Aquarium!

Noah B — Google review

One of the best sights to see in Maryland, if not the best. Perfect atmosphere for adults and children alike. Educational and visually stunning. The shark tank area is a joy, as are the massive rays found at the very beginning.A must-visit if you're in town for a few days in Baltimore. Approximately $50 per adult, so not cheap, but still well worth it.

Alexander C — Google review

My family and I have lived in the DMV for almost 10 years and just made it here this week. It was really nice and our boys thoroughly enjoyed it.Parking was easy and convenient about a block over with discounted parking with validation received at our exit from the aquarium.Children under 4 are free so only my husband and I had to pay for entry which included a military discount. The stroller check and locker rentals were perfect. With multiple levels and areas to explore, we spent a couple of hours taking in all the aquarium had to offer.Even on a weekday there was a nice crowd but not too crowded. They offer dining on location but we didn’t eat there.I’d definitely recommend this aquarium as a great activity for anyone in the area looking for something fun to do.

Ciara L — Google review

This is probably my favorite place for me and my family to go in Baltimore. The aquarium is beautiful - the little habitats they create for all of their animals (they have more than just fish!) are very true to life and pleasing to the eye. The food in the cafeteria is also pretty good, better than most food you'd find at zoos/aquariums, but there's also a ton of restaurants and other stuff to do a short walk away! Love this area, I go as often as I can.

Sara L — Google review

We came to Baltimore to visit the aquarium from Austin, and we were not disappointed.My teenager is obsessed with marine biology so we had to come for a spring break visit.We were most impressed by the staff members who work here. They were so friendly, kind, and open to answering questions. They were also all so knowledgeable. My teen asked some really tricky scientific questions and every time, the staff found an answer or just knew the fish enough to answer.The black tip tank is stunning and impossible to describe in sufficient terms. It was simply awesome.We did the behind the scenes shark tour and thought it was well worth the extra money to add this on.I will mention.m that the 4D shark movie was a little bit scary for the younger kids and might be better to skip if your kids are under 10.The animals were very happy and well cared for. It was just so nice and we spent hours wandering. The jellyfish sculpture and exhibit and positively breathtaking.

Heather T — Google review

Beautiful environment and well kept marine habitats. Wonderful opportunity for the whole family to have fun together! Let the Philips Restaurant valet park your car. You'd pay the same for parking it yourself in a parking lot that's further away. On Friday nights, the entrance tickets to the aquarium are half price! Best to buy them online.

Jose R — Google review

We really enjoyed our visit here. A little pricey, but I think it's worth the price of admission. Excellent displays, loads of beautiful and unique species. It was really crowded and loud at times, and we were really disappointed that they no longer have dolphin shows.

Joshua H — Google review

I havent been to a aquarium since I was a teen and this is the first time I been to the National Aquarium. It was great! Very busy which is understandable, but got to enjoy my time and see the wonders that live under water. Definitely recommend if you have kids or want to go with your spouse.

Keenan W — Google review

We enjoyed our visits every time. My kid loves watching stingrays! I would suggest getting a Membership if you are planning to visit multiple time. Garage Parking available near by. Enjoy Dolphin training’s too.

Prity D — Google review

It is nice, but I'm not surit is worth $50 in 2024. You pay an expensive ticket and still need to pay additional for inside shows.It can get crowded in some halls.Pros: no more dolphins shows, which in my opinion is good, respect those animals. You can still get to their tank to see them and enjoy some interactions when they feed them (I added a picture).Some of the displays are good, like the frogs or rain forest. You also have rooms with beautiful views of the bay.They should decrease the price, especially for children. If you're a family with 3 children, you'll pay around $200 for about 2-3 hours of entertainment.

Dee C — Google review

4.6

(28841)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (48)

4.5

(7267)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (49)

501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, USA

(410) 576-3800

7

Horseshoe Casino Baltimore

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Casino

Casinos & Gambling

Baltimore's Horseshoe Casino is a vast and modern establishment that offers slots and table games as well as bars and restaurants. It is truly an impressive spot, with excellent gaming options for all types of visitors.

Wonderful experience the customer service clerk was amazing unlike most casinos she was amazing. The new customer points card didn’t work for us at the pizza place but we weren’t worried about it the pizza was so good! BBQ pizza on the lower floor is legendary. No smoking so it smelled great everywhere there was a smoking section outside with machines and smoking was cool. Parking was safe mood was safe feeling was good definitely will come back. Free soda machine on the wall like all the other good casinos.

amyandbrendan — Google review

I've been here before and I feel it lost some of the pizzazz that it used to have. It's still very clean and well kept, tho. We had fun at the slots. And we ate at Brew Burgers. The food was delicious. Again it was clean and had good service.

Morgan S — Google review

Several weeks ago around 5-5:30 a group of us arrived for the football game. We don't live in Baltimore and since there isn't a mask mandate for the stadium, we didn't have masks. We are all vaccinated. We decided to go into the casino as some of us hadn't been. There was a young lady working the intake area. She informed us that we couldn't enter without a mask. We asked if any were available and she said there were vending machines inside the casino with masks to purchase. Well one member of our party found a mask in their bag and attempted to find the machines. When they couldn't he returned to the lady and asked again where they were. She was frustrated but told him directions again which involved multiple turns. He again couldn't find them but another employee said the machines were outside and by the bus station. We left and walked to the bus station to purchase masks. We returned to the same woman. She knew we had already had our photos taken before but insisted we do that again. I said to her that I would like for her to pass on a recommendation of having masks for people if it is mandated or having the vending machine outside or in the lobby so that people can actually find it. She promptly told me that she didn't have to provide anything (I wasn't asking her personally). I turned to her and stated that obviously she didn't have to provide anything including good customer service. Once inside the casino, I saw multiple people without mask include multiple employees. I took photos. I was so disappointed with my groups experience with this casino. I've been to the casinos in Vegas and it was such a different experience.

Deborah B — Google review

I didn't actually gamble here but I did go to Gordon Ramsay's restaurant which was located here. It was really good. I wanted to try the beef Wellington and I finally got it 😋. The waitress was really nice and professional. I had a great experience here. I do recommend it to anyone that wants to come here. Dessert was delicious as well.

LC C — Google review

Went to check out Horseshoe with my uncle on the night of Monday, 07-03-23. He thought we could catch a show. Security told us that they'd stopped the shows because of covid & hadn't brought them back yet.I was VERY impressed with how good the place smelled. Never saw anyone smoking; can only assume that it's either a no smoking venue or smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Was happy about free parking.We didn't gamble. Just wanted to get a feel of the place. I'd driven by several times over the years. We didn't go to the restaurant. We did get to enjoy some fireworks from the parking deck. May stop by again to try some slots next time I'm in the city. Security was tight with required showing of id, I believe a metal detector, and I think facial recognition.

N A — Google review

I really enjoy going to The Horseshoe Casino near The Inner Harbor downtown Baltimore. My favorite table game is Roulette and I love that I can get Promotional Chips by exchanging my Caesar’s Rewards Points as seen in the photo below. Exchanged 100,000 points for $500 in Promotional Chips and was able to flip $400 into $465 in actual money…$$$ Needless to say a lot of the Dealers are fun and engaging. Plus I’ve met dozens of great people there over the past year…🤗Lastly “Always Gable Responsively” And Have Fun 🤩

KEITH I — Google review

The casino is a little dated...U can hang out@ the bar area as long as U like...TV's R strategically positioned around the bar area for comfort and viewing Maurice the bartender is the bomb his bartending skills are exceptional nice crowd the casino was safe and secure nice place to hang out for the night and have a good time! The DJ played good music that appealed to our old school soul! Good crowd to interact with! Food for thought you got to wear a mask to enter the casino 👍🏿

R B — Google review

As my chef idol is Gordon Ramsay, my husband and I went to his MD Steak for our anniversary recently. I tried as much as possible, and needless to say, we had a ton of leftovers—first, the bread, warm with butter uniquely flavored with old bay. Next we tried two different appetizers, first the famous lobster risotto and the other was pork belly. I must say the pork belly was my favorite out of the two. It was soft and melted like butter in my mouth. Next we tried three dishes, the steak, then the Beef Wellington and Lamb. I must say I was a bit bummed on the Wellington as part of the pastry was a bit raw and it was not coated all the way around with the mushroom mix. But the meat was lovely and the flavor was still fantastic. The Lamb had a fabulous sauce that I wish I could have bought a bottle of. We tried a few different sides. The mushrooms which were out of this world, flavorful and still had a firm base to bite into. Then the Mac and cheese- oh yeah this was creamy and cheesy goodness, finally the creamed spinach. The spinach was stringy and a bit chewy. So this was not my favorite side. Finally what made the night. My husband and I shared the famous Sticky toffee pudding. I felt like I had just gone to heaven. It made the evening end on the highest note I could think of. We will be back.

Elizabeth F — Google review

What a pleasant surprise! We visited on a Friday afternoon. The first floor was practically deserted, which was fine with us. We expected smokers, but smoking was only allowed in a separate room upstairs. The entire casino smelled fresh and clean, which was wonderful. We had fun playing for a couple hours. I lost a bit, but my wife broke even, so it was a good day!

Stan A — Google review

Came to Baltimore for my first Orioles game since I was a kid. after the game We hit the casino for the first time... I'm a poker player so I went straight to the poker room. Nice little poker room. Everyone was friendly... Overall a nice little casino with A great atmosphere. Will definitely be back.

13shadylady13 — Google review

I enjoy the casino being so close to M & T Bank stadium. It's always extra fun before and after a game. Ravens fans are always SUPER HYPE!

Rosalie H — Google review

Part of the Caesar's network of casinos, Horseshoe Baltimore provides decent level of casino gaming fun. The restaurants are limited and parking is stuck to a garage that now is charging for Ravens and Orioles on home games (sad) but the gaming action is decent. Locals are respectful as long you return the favor. Security is respectful but can be long on the weekends entering the building.The poker room is very basic and there are some sectioned off areas in the back on the second and first floor with what appears to be remodeling and some secret bar room that looks creepy. I believe there is a conference room and open club on the first floor. The pizza is really good and Gordon Ramsey restaurant is okay but not as good as AC or Vegas.They do have great comp prizes (always use your players card) and the restrooms are always clean so I'm happy about that. Also the self serve soda is good. Cut the lemonade with ginger ale or sierra mist, you will thank me later.Grab a few hundred dollars and see if luck is on your side today!

Antonies I — Google review

I went to the horseshoe for the first time recently to attend a poker event for the run good series. I like the horseshoe brand but there were pros and cons.Pros - Close to the highway. A lot of convenient parking leading directly to the casino, Large gaming floor, very nice poker room, close to stadium, CONNECTED TO TOP GOLF! restaurants in the casino.Cons - a lot of the restaurants only open a few hours a week it seemed like. The smells terrible outside. There’s no hotel in walking distance, I went across the street to holiday inn and there were off duty police officers that informed me the hotel is now used as a homeless shelter. The $1 chips are disgusting.There was not a large selection of cash games in the poker room, but they had the basic 1/3 game and a 4/8 limit game going.

T A — Google review

Was in town visiting and we decided to stop in.I honestly can’t say all good things and I can’t say all bad things. However I do have a little bit of both. The pros: Free Parking, The size of the casino 🎰 is nice, the restrooms and game floors were clean, and that’s about it. The Cons: The Parking Lot smelled horrific, the ride in the elevator didn’t have a pleasant smell either. A lot of the machines didn’t work, and they could’ve had more other games besides so many slots. It’s not as lively as I was expecting it to be. So I don’t think I would return unless they improved and make things a little more lively.

Shaniece — Google review

If I could leave zero stars, I would. We paid $130 to park in the casino garage for the Ravens playoff game. We have been sitting in our car for 2.5 hours after the game with no movement attempting to leave the garage. Not coming back to the garage or the casino.

Leah D — Google review

It was ok but not like I thought it was going to be. I only found one set of videos blackjack spot,but way more poker and slot machines. I mainly love blackjack. Granted they had blackjack sit down tables with other players but one you been playing online with player and not worrying if they have COVID it is hard to set by actual people who are coughing and sneezing,mask up or not. And granted online you don't wine real money but when encounter someone who's a jerk or rude you just mute them. Can't mute people setting by you at the table,but in all I enjoyed myself.

Pierre — Google review

Only visit this place for Gordon Ramsey restaurant as the Casino is dingey and nobody cares about your visit or your enjoyment.The restaurant is totally different in its approach as they care for you like family and make sure you are pleased. The food is unbelievable and an experience to be treasured.

Stephen M — Google review

Bartenders at this place are horrible. Jill stared at me and served multiple other patrons before acknowledging that I was waiting. I stood waiting at the bar for an extremely long time. I ended up leaving and not get served because multiple bartenders would ignore me. I was at the bar for about 20-30 mins. I overheard Jill flirting with other patrons and staying at with them for an extended period of time while the bar was full. Extremely unprofessional. Another guy stood right next to me and waited about 20 min before getting served. I don’t know how long I would’ve had to wait to get served a beer.Blackjack is decent. 25 pays 3/215 pays 6:5, couldn’t locate a 3:2 for 15s.I travel to different casinos across MD and PA, this casino is by far the least crowded for Blackjack tables, especially for a weekend.Would definitely return if Jill served a drink in a prompt fashion.

Denilson T — Google review

Loved it! We really wanted to eat at Gordon Ramsey's for Mother's Day, which was incredible. I won 80 dollars and went home it was a win-win for me.

Calvin J — Google review

8

United States Naval Academy

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Military school

Sights & Landmarks

The United States Naval Academy is a premier undergraduate school for officers of the United States Navy. The school's focus on science, technology, engineering and math has helped shaped the modern Navy. The beautiful campus is filled with history and significant cultural significance.

United States Naval Academy was established in 1845. This institute seeks Creme de la Creme applicants. An applicant must apply directly AND be nominated by a Member of Congress. Program is intense both physically and mentally. All costs are paid by the school in exchange for Service.When you see the Army Navy Football game, you're watching West Point play Annapolis. US Naval Academy is open to the public.

Sher O — Google review

The Naval Academy is an exceptional destination for exploring America's history and creating memorable experiences with friends, family, and even new acquaintances. I appreciate that many of the people I have encountered during my visits share similar backgrounds and interests, which adds to the sense of camaraderie and purpose in visiting this historic site. On the plus side, it's 100% without a doubt great for walking around.

Nigel Y — Google review

The United States Naval Academy is just an amazing and beautiful place to go! One of the Historical place established on 10 October 1845 is considered the best Naval college of the world! If you go to Annapolis you need to visit!

Diana N — Google review

Everyone in the area, should visit the United States naval academy. Admission is free, it's not hard to get in, and the place is filled with amazing history. There are museums and exhibits that I have yet to visit. Ladies and gentlemen, the United States Navy is the best Navy in the entire world. The reason we have free-trade all over the world and don't have to worry about pirates is our navy. This place churns out amazing officers with the highest morals in the world. Many foreign countries send their own naval officer candidates to study here.

David F — Google review

One of the coolest places I have ever got to do a tour of. Learned a lot of really cool facts about the place and the city as well.

Bronson A — Google review

Tour guide was great. He explained everything well, took questions and gave detailed answers. Beautiful campus. Great history.

Russell W — Google review

Great place to learn of naval history past, present, and future. Amazing architecture combined with statues, cannons, and even torpedoes!!Sporting events at the college level is always entertaining, but don't forget the scenery the academy has to offer. From boats and ships cruising the bay to the academy bridge at sunset, there is always something to snap a picture of.Anchors Away!!

Romeo B — Google review

My Alma Mater, beautiful campus with lots to see and do. Motivated young Midshipmen walking all around the yard, many historical landmarks and monuments to explore. Need an ID to enter the campus. Walking along the sea wall is incredible, watching the sail boats going up and down the Severn River, you can see all the way to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge on a clear day. Fun to wander around historic downtown Annapolis also, just a few minutes away from Gate 1.

Jim A — Google review

I visited this place as a tourist and loved the tour! It is a tremendous and interesting historical site with rich history and great traditions associated with it. The academy has a lot of interesting buildings open to the public and a beautiful riverfront area. I would certainly recommend it for visiting!

Dmitry Z — Google review

We came here as tourists to visit the campus, and we needed to pass the security check / ID check. The campus was beautiful, and several buildings were open for visitors without reservation needed. Overall, I would recommend this spot for people who visit Annapolis!

Dawang W — Google review

So much history, not enough room to elaborate! I love walking on the academy. The atmosphere is amazing and you can see the measure of professionalism. We recently went to the midday formation before they marched into chow. So cool to see the formations and hear the cadence. The academy drill team also performed and it was excellent to say the least. Go Navy!

DETAIL D — Google review

Tour I took of grounds and museum were great but i nearly missed it. Staff at visitor center and guide were kind.Initially Google Maps took me to the wrong gate., which was only for military personnel. Men assigned guard duty were on a power trip and detained me for 20 minutes. They could have simply explained it was wrong gate and had me turn around. They took my license, put cones behind and in front of my car so i couldnt leave, lectuted me, etc. Completely disrespectful, unacceptable, and nearly missed my tour. This really ruined my experience.

Ivy C — Google review

Went here for the 2022 Summer Seminar. The campus is really cool and pretty. It seems like a great school to go to! The buildings and the history of this place is very intriguing!

Bree B — Google review

4.7

(466)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (64)

5.0

(3026)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (65)

121 Blake Rd, Annapolis, MD 21402, USA

(410) 293-1000

9

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (66)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (67)

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Natural history museum

Museums

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is the most visited natural history museum in the world, with 127 million items on display. The museum features rotating exhibits, including a Deep Time exhibit that takes guests back millions of years and showcases specimens such as dinosaur fossils.

Free museum. Great for kids. Lots of interesting exhibits. I went during Cherry Blossom 🌸 peak week so it was pretty crowded on a Saturday. I spent 3+ hours exploring. There’s 3 floors. Definitely recommend. There something for everyone.

Luke C — Google review

I had never been in a museum as amazing as this one; it's amazing, they have so many things to see; dinosaur fossils are the best, my three year old daughter enjoyed it very much, she has not stopped talking about it in the last two days. We went on a Sunday and it was quite long but it is not overwhelming because it is very big place, there was enough space to see and do things. the museum is very interactive, it has so many things to learn, a single day is not enough to learn about so many things. It has easy access for strollers and wheelchairs, there are multiple elevators, several shops for souvenirs and gifts, it has a very nice cafe area. you won't get bored here. In addition, everything is super clean and it is totally free. When you enter the museum you go through a lot of security but the process is fast.

Sussan C — Google review

It is an amazing museum for kids who are eager to learn new things. This museum is a full day visit there is lots of knowledge to grasp and one can learn about a lot of things here. I had a limited time, but would love to visit this place again and spend enough time in each section by going through all the information one by one. I personally liked the fossil lab , where you could actually see individuals cleaning the Fossils, drawing images of fossils. It was a really amazing experience overall. I wish I had more time.

Yuthika S — Google review

Once you’ve been to a couple of Natural History museums you’ve pretty much seen them all. This has the usual fossil and animal collections, but I’d say they’re very well organized and the exhibits seem designed with intent.They have some really nice fossils although it’s hard to determine how many replicas they have instead of the real thing.Their animal collection is also pretty good and the exhibits include plenty of useful information.Definitely a good option if you have kids or you like nature. Safe to skip if you’ve been to more than one similar museums elsewhere.

Rodrigo L — Google review

Very nice museum, interesting and informative also free. The amazing world of the ocean, animals, space, dinosaurs, butterflies, crystals and much more. It was also very interesting for us to see how man developed, a very good story about our past ancestors, cool statues. We were there for more than two hours, it was not enough because every square centimeter in this museum is very interesting and worth attention. My children ran and it was impossible to stop them, especially in the underwater world, various fish, octopuses, corals, turtles and others. We also really liked in the world of dinosaurs. The museum itself is very clean, spacious and interesting. We drank coffee in the museum cafe, ate delicious desserts, but the prices are quite high, even very high, but that's everyone's choice) We liked everything and we are very satisfied))

Olesia S — Google review

Awesome experience!! We could go here every day for a year and not see everything!!The time, effort, and love that goes into this place is nothing short of amazing. I'm really very happy I got to go.Worth the money, if you get a chance!The squirrels are also quite tame and we fed them by hand lol.

Erin F — Google review

We had a great time! There was no wait to get in, even with security screenings at the door. It was quite crowded both days we visited, but we were still able to see every exhibit in a reasonable amount of time. Masks are required throughout the building, but that was no issue for us. My 7 and 10yo LOVED all the exhibits and were blown away every time we rounded a corner. I highly recommend it if you're in DC!

Jennifer C — Google review

An amazing (free) experience that was tons of fun for all of us and we all left smarter. Plan to spend at least 2 hours if you want to see most of the exhibits. If you want to read and learn about the exhibits it, allot at least 3 hours.They do have restaurants inside, ample restrooms and a nice gift shop.Our favorite exhibits were neanderthals exhibits and ancient animals, especially the dinosaur skeletons. They have many real looking animal exhibits, and detailed scientific background on them which was fun to learn.

Alan V — Google review

I've been to this museum on numerous trips to DC and it is always a highlight of our trip. This time we went back in order to avoid some rain. They thankfully are no longer doing times ticket entry, so it was a smooth entrance. Be forewarned there will probably always be a school group or five visiting, but the 3 floors of exhibits allow for you to mostly avoid crowds. I obviously wouldn't recommend going on the weekend if you don't like kids, but the weekday not on a school break is doable.The exhibits are well done and will have something for everyone. From bodies and bones to fish and other animals, you will dive into the world of nature. Over time, taxidermy does start to show it's age so in the near future some of the animals may need to be redone or repaired, but in the grand scheme of things they are still holding strong.The bathrooms are mostly clean. It depends on what time you go of course, but with school groups they can quickly get dirty. The staff is very pleasant upon entry and are used to big crowds. They still run everything smoothly with such a large turnout.I'll continue to go when I am in downtown DC as I feel like you learn something new every time.

Cashea S — Google review

I love this museum. Everything is quality, everything is clean. And the entry lines are fast - so (Pro Tip) if you need to use the restroom but are wary of Port-O-Potties, you can get in and out quick, despite a bag check. There is also a cafe with pretty much everything you could want to eat and it's not too expensive for the area. Plus, the ice cream trucks outside are so nice on a hot day. Beware: the live Butterfly exhibit is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Emily H — Google review

It was just incredible. Hope diamond was a highlight. Our kids FAVORITE was the butterflies. It is an extra ticket but totally worth it. The room is relatively small so almost everyone has a butterfly land on them. It was pure magic.The other exhibits were fun as well. Loved the ones about gems and minerals as well as night sky. Just a big beautiful museum

Amy B — Google review

Amazing hall of bones and hall of fossils, but also had a great exhibit on rocks and gems, the hall of mammals, and the sea creatures. Very interesting, learned a lot about dinosaurs and mass extinction events. You can even see in the dinosaur exhibits how many bones are casts vs real, so that was very neat. I also enjoyed watching the scientists work, one was drawing very detailed pictures of fossils, wish I could have given him a thumbs up but he was in the zone. Definitely recommend to people who like dinosaurs or bones in general.

Chloe T — Google review

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in DC. A massive three-storied Victorian architecture that is filled with information about natural lives.When planning your visit, be prepared to allocate at least four hours to fully explore..Definitely a good option if you have kids or you like nature. Safe to skip if you’ve been to more than one similar museums elsewhere.The museum's security process is seamless, and unlike my experience at the Air and Space Museum, personal water bottles were permitted here, a welcome relief.

Poonam P — Google review

Such a cool museum! Expect a crowd, it was elbow to elbow in most areas downstairs. BUT, totally worth going to. The elephant in the center of the lobby was such a cool focal point to be greeted with, and the dinosaurs are all set up perfectly. We thoroughly enjoyed seeing everything. For anyone wanting to do the butterfly exhibit, make sure you get tickets early because it is a timed ticket system and they sell out.

Tiffany M — Google review

Nice place but fully packed over the weekend. You need at least 3 to 4 hours to look around the whole museum. Try to visit by 10 AM when the museum opens, it may be less crowded during that time. Some of the things require tickets, for instance butterfly pavilion required tickets to visit. Foods are available inside but it’s crowded.

Shanmugavel S — Google review

I hope I have more time to spend at this place. Absolutely the best natural history museum! The exhibitions are all at the highest quality possible. It is very educational and fun to explore every corner. Highlights were at the mineral hall. There is a massive display of many valuable minerals. I especially loved the red topaz crystal.

Zhiyun G — Google review

Great museum for kids and adults. We went on the weekend and it was packed with people but we were able to move around with moderate congestion. The gift store was reasonable and there was some unique items available. For the little ones, I would bring a stroller if you’re up to pushing it because their legs will get tired. There were places to sit but they weren’t plentiful. The food court was open but we didn’t purchase anything. You can bring your own goods and water inside the museum. There is plenty to see and read for everyone. Highly recommend for families with small kids (probably 2 and up)

Sassy S — Google review

An amazing museum to visit. So much to discover and learn. We planned only 2-3 hours which was reasonable but not sufficient really. Kids loved various sections in the museum and so did we. A must visit if you happen to be in the Washington DC especially with kids and family. People of all ages will have things to learn and be amazed at.And entrance was free and parking was easily available 💕

Mohammad M — Google review

You can skim a majority of the museum and get lost in a single branch for a long time. Well worth the price (free)! Gift shop is a bit smelly, but I usually don't go to them anyway. Overall, the exhibits are top-notch and there are a lot that offer to touch the exhibit. Great time with the family and time well spent.

Stephen C — Google review

The Smithsonian Natural History Museum undoubtedly ranks among the finest museums I've ever visited. A treasure trove of exhibits awaits, catering to diverse interests, from dinosaurs and early hominids to safari animals, aquatic life, minerals, meteors, and even the famed Hope Diamond.Plan on dedicating a minimum of 4 hours to thoroughly explore the majority of exhibits, even at a brisk pace. It's important to note that reading every single detail may be a tall order within this time frame. Approach your visit with a clear plan, focusing on the topics that resonate most with you and your companions. Don't miss the chance to engage with the educational videos on offer and take occasional breaks to rest your feet.The museum's security process is seamless, and unlike my experience at the Air and Space Museum, personal water bottles were permitted here, a welcome relief. All in all, the Smithsonian Natural History Museum guarantees an enriching and immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Gary B — Google review

This family-friendly museum is open and free to the public. No tickets or timed entry required. You can easily spend hours here. It's very informative, fun, and educational. Everything from rocks, minerals, gemstones, bones, birds, bees, mummies, to butterflies. There's plenty of food options in the museum, and vendor food trucks right outside. This is a great option for a rainy day or to beat the heat on a hot day.

John H — Google review

Really cool museum, and definitely family friendly. They have a range of exhibits so there is sure to be something for everyone. My wife and I really enjoyed the Gems and Minerals exhibit. Biggest issue is the crowd. We went on a weekday and the place was still pretty crowded. They really should have timed entry passes like other museums in the area.

Dominic — Google review

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a must see and an amazing museum for kids who are eager to learn new things. This museum takes a while to explore (around 3-4 hours) with all the interesting exhibits spread throughout the building. There are many facts and information in one place which makes it very impressive. The entry was free and there was no need for tickets. Overall, we had an amazing experience and hope to come back soon with more time.

Asher M — Google review

Awesome place with so much to see we couldn’t do it all in one day! We got there just as they opened up on a weekday and there was no wait, but it got busy in a hurry with kids and tour groups. Amazing to see so much history and treasures from around the world for FREE! Make sure it’s on your short list of must see attractions if visiting D.C.

TJ S — Google review

In DC I loved this museum, especially I saw a huge Elephant that is at the entrance to the museum. It offers many things to look at and learn. My favorite area was the sea area, where I saw a hanging whale and different types of big fish. The funniest thing I saw was a monkey holding an iPhone and taking pictures. I recommend coming to this museum.

Amo C — Google review

My visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was a total treasure hunt of knowledge and wonder. Its vast exhibits, from the iconic Hope Diamond to the lifelike dinosaur displays, offer a captivating exploration of Earth's history and biodiversity. The museum's interactive exhibits make learning a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The attention to detail and the depth of information provided showcase the museum's commitment to education and scientific discovery. With free admission, it's a fantastic destination for anyone with an interest in the natural world. Perhaps I need to go there one more time to cover some more corners of the great museum.

Mahjabeen R — Google review

My family and I have gone a few times. We went again last week. Of course, I failed to remember its spring break and tourist season 😵‍💫😅 soooo it was actually quite packed on top of which there's very limited places to take a load off to sit down. Side note, I do like how efficient the cafeteria area on the main floor is. Folks usually recognize that space is limited and eat promptly to clear a space for the next person. OH AND I DID LOSE MY RING!! AND WHEN I CALLED NO ONE RETURNED. I'LL ADD A PIC.

Kabaam F — Google review

More than a museum this is a story about the various periods of life in our history. The museum has an amazing flow from the prehistoric, to the mammals, marine life and the future.There's an ongoing exhibit on the history and effect of cellphones on our lives. It goes through several ongoing projects to recover our planet too.I recommend going early, this museum may take up to 6 hours to complete for a detailed experience.They will close the doors very abruptly when closing though. Got separated from my family because they were pushing people around to leave. It's a free museum but try to leave before that happens.

Aayush M — Google review

This place is UNBELIEVABLE! There is plenty of room for families with strollers, large groups, easy access to bathrooms, charging for phones, food and rest areas, gift shops, multiple elevators, and more.As far as the attractions, there is none better in the USA. Every type of the animals of the world are here and you are educated constantly. The lighting and signage is perfect. Kids can see everything from their vantage point so there’s no need to lift them constantly like at most zoos and museums.The gem exhibit on the 2nd floor is truly one-of-a-kind, featuring the Hope Diamond. You can get about 8” away and there are dozens more examples to enjoy from hundreds of years ago and most continents.The Fossil Exhibit will blow your mind, and has so much more than just dinosaurs and extinct animals. They have a live lab showing real experts removing bones from rock and using high tech equipment like laser imaging to find animal parts in rock.You really must make this building a top stop from all the other museums in the city. You can spend all day here or half a day like I did and be constantly amazed.

Paul W — Google review

The National Museum of Natural History is a fantastic destination for all ages. The exhibits are incredibly informative and engaging, offering a deep dive into the wonders of our natural world. Highlights include the stunning Hall of Fossils, the captivating Butterfly Pavilion, and the awe-inspiring Hope Diamond.The museum is well-organized and easy to navigate, with knowledgeable staff ready to answer any questions. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational outing, this museum is a must-visit. Highly recommended!** I'm an emoji Google local guide in DFW areas if you want more reviews, don't forget to follow my account. 😊 **

CHLOE C — Google review

Definitely a must see! Not only is it free to get in but there is so much to do You don't have to do anything else with your entire day! Use a parking app to find the best parking rate. There is accessibility for strollers. The food in the food courts is decently priced and actually very tasty.

Laura R — Google review

It's a bit of a mixed bag. It's free, so the price is great, the queues to get in can be long but they move quick so that's good. There's a bunch of really nice exhibits, and some that are fairly rare, the Hope diamond for instance, and the pretty good collection of dinosaur skeletons, and skeletons in general actually. There are two issues, first, it's very busy so be prepared to take your time, be patient as others want to look and take photos and read the info panels etc.Secondly, there doesn't seem to be any natural flow to the layout that we could figure out. This means you can bounce around a bit and not be entirely sure you've seen all the galleries. We noticed this immediately, and heard others comment about it on our way around.Look, they're minor issues, it was great fun, we love museums, and this one is pretty good. It's just I think it's worth while knowing about so you can do some research before hand, and/or have the right expectations.

Jarrod B — Google review

Did not have enough time to see this place even though we had about 5 hours. We're able to see the first floor pretty well but we'll have to come back to see the second floor. Did not realize that all the museums closed at 5:30. The security and all were nice but firm about making everybody leave.Came back the next day and still didn't have enough time. We were able to do the upstairs exhibits in about 3 to 4 hours but it was not enough time to really see detail and see everything.

Adam B — Google review

The Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History has amassed an extensive collection of natural history specimens since its establishment in 1910, with an estimated 148 million artifacts in its possession. Only a small fraction of these artifacts are displayed to the public at any given time.It was amazing and you need good 3/4 hours to cover the whole museum or full whole day to explore every single piece in the museum.No need to buy tickets it is free to enter!!

Hushra — Google review

4.8

(48178)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (73)

4.5

(12520)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (74)

10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

(202) 633-1000

10

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (75)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (76)

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National museum

Museums

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a popular museum that features both permanent and changing exhibits about aviation and space exploration. Permanent exhibits include displays of vehicles from the Wright Brothers to Apollo 11, while changing exhibitions focus on a variety of science, history, and technology topics related to aviation and space flight. Family activities are offered regularly at the museum, including free look through the museums giant telescopes for young visitors.

I'm very grateful that I had a chance to visit this amazing Museum. Being able to see the remaining from the Apollo 11 mission and the landing on the moon, makes me very happy. This museum has very much to offer, plenty of airplanes and rockets, lot of history from the development of aircrafts. You can definitely learn a lot and be entertained. I highly recommend you to put this on your list while you are in Washington DC

Dragan A — Google review

All of this incredible aeronautical history for free! The Smithsonian museums are such a gift. We went with our 4 kids aged 6 to 12 and they all had a great time. There’s something for everyone whether you’re a total science enthusiast or someone who doesn’t normally have much interest in this kind of thing. This is just a great family friendly activity. And did I mention that like all the Smithsonian museums at the National Mall, the museum is free?!

C H — Google review

One of my son’s favorite museums! We had timed tickets for 2 and arrived at 215. It was only a 10 min casual walk from the Hilton at L’Enfant Plaza. About half of the museum is closed for renovations so I didn’t expect to need much time. I was so wrong. We saw two 25 min films in the planetarium (arrive early and sit in the back, you’ll be looking straight up) and for 2 adults and a jr ticket with military discount it was a little over $40. That ended at 325, leaving us with 2 hours and we were rushing to try to get glimpses of each room and the biggest attractions. The cafe closed at 5 so I didn’t see that, but we went to the gift shop 15 min before closing and lemme tell you, and 530- they are pushing you out the door. Politely, but no exceptions. I definitely feel like we left with no regrets. But I’d probably skip the movie, or plan for at least 4 hours.

Rebecca G — Google review

I'm an aerospace engineer so I'm biased but my non aerospace friends say that this is the best Smithsonian (better than the natural history museum). I definitely agree. Seeing the selection was awesome. It is still under renovation so half of the museum is closed. Would definitely go back when it is fully open. I just have to do the museum in VA

Payam G — Google review

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is a soaring tribute to humanity's age-old dream of flight and our relentless pursuit of the skies and beyond. Earning a well-deserved 5 stars, this museum encapsulates the very essence of human innovation and the boundless spirit of exploration.From the delicate wings of the Wright brothers' pioneering aircraft to the robust structure of the Space Shuttle Discovery, the museum charts a captivating journey of progress, risk, and innovation. Each exhibit tells a story — tales of ingenuity, determination, and sometimes, breathtaking audacity.Beyond just the hardware, the museum dives deep into the narratives of the men and women who dared to dream, to push boundaries, and to venture into the great unknown. It's awe-inspiring to stand in the presence of these machines and realize the leaps and bounds air and space travel have taken in just over a century.For anyone with even a fleeting interest in flight, space, or the boundless potential of human endeavor, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is a must-visit. It's not just a collection of artifacts, but a testament to how far we've come and a nod to the endless possibilities of where we might go next.

Danny V — Google review

While visiting, I found that more than half of the venue was under construction, which was a bit disappointing. However, the accessible portions were quite fascinating. The exhibit provided a comprehensive journey through the history of aviation, starting from the Wright Brothers’ early airplanes and progressing to modern super-fast jets. The variety of unique exhibitions added to the intrigue, showcasing various aspects of aeronautical advancements. Additionally, there was an interesting section dedicated to the history of sports in the U.S., which was an unexpected but enjoyable inclusion.

Mary — Google review

I visited the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and I was amazed by the exhibition. It has many real artifacts that show the incredible journey of science and engineering for the achievements and knowledge we have today. It is fascinating for curious people of all ages. Even 5-year-old children can find something for themselves and maybe get inspired by our space future. I highly recommend this museum to anyone who loves aviation and space exploration.

Alex C — Google review

Absolutely incredible! The exhibits have so much info presented in a fun and engaging way. They cater to people with disabilities as well! There are visual, audio, and tactile exhibits. There are parts of planes that you can walk through, and an incredible planetarium experience (which cost us $9 each, and so worth it). I didn't know we needed to get tickets in advance until the morning of, but they release tickets throughout the day. I got online for the afternoon release at 12:30, and easily secured 4 tickets for my group. We spent about 3 hours inside. We looked at everything at least briefly, but we could certainly go back again to read all everything more in depth. During our visit they were in the process of expanding, so I can only imagine how much more there will be to see when that's done. I will say it was pretty busy, but we didn't have to wait in any long lines. 10/10 museum, I would go again!

Marie B — Google review

What a great museum in the city to enjoy. If you love history and space, you should definitely check out the museum. A lot of exhibits were closed, however there was still plenty to do including watching the Discovery launch, touching a piece of the moon, reading about what happens to your body when you go to space, seeing space toilets, and different countries astronaut gear. There is an interactive exhibit where you can choose to ride in a space ship and complete a VR( virtual reality) experience, fly your own craft or ride a roller coaster… the prices for this ranged from $8.00 to $12.00 per person. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop and get your very own space suit, hat or mission patches for your backpack!! No tickets are required, however we waited an hour and a half in line to get into the museum.

Brandy F — Google review

Possibly the most extraordinary museum in the world, I would think this museum alone a worthy destination of the transatlantic trip but the entire experience is brought low by the way in which it is currently managed.The refurbishment that’s currently underway limits the awe factor but it’s still there.About 8 rooms, four of these are above-average quality of content but the space related rooms and Moon exploration are quite simply extraordinary. The objects are wonderfully exhibited and you often sense that you are in a world-class, premiere museum.Despite that, I couldn’t quite rise above the experience of passing through the Smithsonian facility on a busy, rainy day. Access to seating is very limited given the size of the crowd; it was very difficult to get overpriced food and a struggle to find the space to eat it (I gave up). The museum store/shop is very large but very expensive.Entry to the museum is currently allotted by the hour and we joined a block-long line in the rain with tickets that required being booked two months in advance. Attendant staff seemed passive and tired or just grumpy, while the few curatorial staff we encountered seemed somewhat overwhelmed by the crowd.The collection here is unique and inspirational , containing touchstones of the most inspirational moments in human history, but limited by the exhibition space and feels cramped. Sharing that space with such a crowd is tiring.I brought my children for my first return since I was a child in 1982 and I often struggled to maintain enthusiasm. We enjoyed the Udvar-Hazy facility much more.

Stephen H — Google review

I give this 5 stars for being free but it would get 4 if I had to pay to enter due to the fact that you cannot enter even a minute before your scheduled time and it took 7 minutes in a queue before we could enter the building. Standing in line in the brutal sun is no joke. I highly recommend coming 20 or more minutes after your entrance time (you can come up to an hour later). The other issue is that there are very few places to sit. Saw lots of people sitting on the floor.Aside from these negatives, it's a great little museum. 1-2 hours is plenty of time to see everything and read tons and tons. I enjoyed reading the brief period of the Wright brothers' success and their home life.Large gift store inside and even a place to get personalized dog tags. A few interactive exhibits but not a ton for younger kids.One last thing, make sure to reserve in advance! Our whole weekend here in DC was during a very unbusy weekend but this place was packed and sold out.

Justine V — Google review

Museum is free but definitely reverse a ticket in advance. The line was out the door and around the block at opening time, so don't be surprised if you have to wait. It moves very fast, though. Very interesting history on aviation from the first plane flown by the wright brothers to modern day planes and drones. The "space" section definitely was smaller but no less fascinating with parts from a real exploded rocket, models of Mars rovers, and a lot of interesting signage on the mysteries of the universe and quirks of our solar system. One of the most popular Smithsonian museums and I can see why, however I don't think you need to spend all day here. 3 hours is enough time.

Chloe T — Google review

The Air and Space Museum offers an awe-inspiring journey through aviation history. The St. Louis and other iconic planes showcased provide a captivating glimpse into the evolution of flight. However, it's worth noting that the absence of the Blackbird and the space shuttle was a downside, leaving a notable gap in the otherwise impressive collection. Despite this, the museum remains a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Red D — Google review

This was by far one of the coolest things we’ve done in DC. We took our kids—ages 7, 9, 12, & 14–and we all loved it.The biggest downsides were: (1) the day we went was super-crowded, and (2) we had already been to another museum, so we maxed out on walking around looking at exhibits faster than we would’ve if we would have started here.There are so many exhibits and so much information. Everywhere you turn is something else intriguing. I could hardly believe that we were looking at the actual aircraft/spacecraft from stories we’ve heard about all our lives. It was truly amazing.We especially loved the Wright Brothers’ exhibit and the entire section with space shuttles and spacesuits on display. And my husband was happy to find the Spirit of St. Louis, which was tucked away in a back corner, but a staff member graciously directed us on how we could see it.We’d love to return and hopefully try to schedule it for a less busy time (seriously, the crowds inside were very stressful at times), but we will also make sure this is the first or only museum we do that day.Highly, highly recommend!

Amy S — Google review

Unfortunately right now, half of the museum is under renovation. But the half that we got to see was really cool. They've got a lot of really awesome exhibits and so many different interactive things. I really liked the interactive Earth exhibit on the upper floor. I wouldn't eat at the cafe though, everything was very overpriced.

Kelli K — Google review

Great museum to stroll around for a few hours. As others mentioned, there are some exhibits that are closed so I wouldn't treat this place as a main attraction to visit, museum wise.However, it is a great learning experience if your unfamiliar with USA space history and the early history of flight. Great crash course here. Definitely recommend if your in the Greater DC area.This museum is free admission as it's your federal tax dollars hard at work. They do have donation bins throughout the museum as well if you feel inclined to contribute.

Alex L — Google review

What an awesome incredible museum. So interactive and just tons to do! We spent 2 hours just walking around and seeing all the planes. Some of the coolest things are the two planes that you can walk inside and also the whole exhibit showcasing the Apollo missions.Seriously can’t wait for the whole museum to open. It’s an absolute must do even with half open. 10 out of 10 Ill be back.

James S — Google review

The best things I can say are. It was great that the security staff monitor the line of people waiting to get in. Air quality was awful and it was just miserable out. Thankfully they let the 2pm folks in line inside early. The planetarium was great. Like the other recent reviews say. Half or more of the museum is under construction. The upstairs exhibits for space were nice but the rest was dull and not worth it. I think the only reason they have advanced tickets is because they have so little seating for crowds wanting to avoid the heat vs the other museums

Greg S — Google review

This museum is one of the best I’ve been to. There is so much history and detail in the air and space industry, but the museum does a great job of capturing a ton of it. The planes on display are a stunning work of building masterpiece. My grandfather flew the DC-3 hanging up front and center, so it was really cool to see in person and quite inspiring.

John W — Google review

The entrance is free but it requires a reservation for a timed pass. It does not allow for an early entry. On a hot summer day, it was no fun standing in a line outside the museum for almost 20 minutes until been letting in.Some of the exhibitions were cool. We enjoyed the early planes and inventions, flying cars, Nation of speed. Unfortunately the iMax theater was not open. And large spaces were closed due to renovations. The displaying planes were much less than I expected. We visited on Saturday which was a packed day for the museum. There were not enough sitting area. Overall it’s a nice place to visit. But I would wait for a couple more years before visiting again to have a more interesting and enhanced experience. On its website, it says the full building is expected to be open in 2026.

Aggie W — Google review

We visited this museum in the month of August 2023. The space museum is well maintained and has a lot of attractions. There are two different museums, if you are more interested in aircrafts and space shuttles you need to attend the other one. Remember to give enough time as they start closing the museum by 4:30, they wont allow you to walk-in to different sections after 4pm. Buying tickets in advance is recommended.The museum has a cafeteria inside, has restrooms and water refilling stations. You need to park your cars roadside or at garage.

PIYUSH K — Google review

One of the most amazing and attractive places in Washington DC. A great place to take your family. The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC, is an awe-inspiring tribute to aviation and space exploration. Its vast exhibits showcase historic aircraft, spacecraft, and artifacts, allowing visitors to journey through the remarkable milestones of flight and space travel. From the Wright brothers' plane to the Apollo 11 command module, it's a captivating experience for enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Amin Z — Google review

Note: This museum is still undergoing renovations, and half of the museum is closed. If you have the option of waiting until it opens, I’d strongly recommend it.Advanced tickets are also required at this location. They are free, but can be hard to get at popular times. Definitely get your tickets early if you are planning to come on a holiday or other busy time.Finally, there’s also a Dulles location that is much larger with more exhibitions. If you’re picking between the two, I’d definitely go with the Dulles location. It’s less crowded and way cooler.

Micah W — Google review

Get your online free passes in advance! It gets booked rather quickly. All the exhibitions were amazing, and there’s something for everyone. We watched Dark Universe, it was worth it (you need to get paid tickets for this area).Accessibility was good for the most part, ramps, elevators, but with the big crowds it can get hard to walk around. Take it slow and easy and you’ll enjoy it better.It was a memorable visit!

Glenda N — Google review

Admission is free. Just book a slot. When I got to the museum, I was really scared because the queue was endless, it was really long, but the process itself was quick and efficient! It's a pity that the part I was looking forward to the most is under renovation! I'm very disappointed with this. otherwise a very nice place. very nice souvenir shop, a bit expensive but nice. very nice ladies at the information desk, handing out maps on the road. Poor cafeteria, the worst iced tea I have ever had in my life, there is a lot of room for improvement of the entire gastronomic aspect because it is poor. And a lot of kids come over well lost opportunity!

Agnieszka B — Google review

I liked this museum so much. It was the best in Washington. But now because of the renovation - half of the museum is closed. Additionaly 25percent of this half are museum stores.There was little information about the booking passess. We made the booking next day exactly on 8:30 but unfortunately most of the tickets were gone in less than 1 minute for that day :(.Still some people are not coming after making booking and Museum is not letting the other in although there are free spaces.

Dariusz W — Google review

This place is a blast to walk through, but since half of it is closed, I can't give it more than 3 stars. Lots of hands on things to do and still plenty of planes and aircraft to see, but you're only seeing half of what this place usually offers. Bear that in mind as the renovations are slated to take a year or more. The space exploration stuff is great and I enjoyed the early flight stuff. It's free, so it's still worth a visit, but 1-2 hours here is more than enough.

Stephen M — Google review

Get your ticket as early as 8:30 am because the place gets jammed. Only half of the museum is open right now, but it was enough for me and my 7-year-old boy. We watched every artifact and tried every interactive screen in the museum. We touched some asteroids and meteorites. We learned about space food, astronauts, and rocket ships. We loved the planets exhibit. We spent a good 3 hours in the museum. We will come back to see the new part and the planetarium.

Delphine ( — Google review

This is a must visit while in DC. Almost everything you about space and aviation, you can find here. Kid friendly. Handicapped and stroller friendly. They have an elevator. Enjoy and have fun. Get your tickets online. They have time blocks to enter.

Robert S — Google review

Free CostReserve your tickets in advance!We reserved our tickets at least a week ago for 3.31.2024 visit. The tickets 6 days prior to 3/31/2024 were pretty much taken except 4pm visit on 3.30.2024.When arrived at 12:30 pm for 1pm visit, we were instructed to wait in the line till 1pm. Right next to the escalator, it has a sign said more than half of space is under renovation, so there are more to see for sure. Of course, there are lots of people on Sunday, but it is still manageable, meaning you can still pretty experience most of things; even though there is a line, people move pretty fast.

Pin L — Google review

The American air and space museum is such a great place to learn and enjoy everything. There are demos done while you're walking around. You'll need to order your ticket in advance, but it's a lot of fun and a great place to take your kids. Not to mention if you love gift shops, they have 3 floors with lots of different things you can build with Legos, from astronaut food to small planes and solar systems.

Srinivasarao R — Google review

It's a must visit. I love the videos which they played at big screens inside about solar system, and moons. What planes looked like back then . Really amazing to see the original wright brothers plane and it's history behind it. The space part of museum looks really colorful and lively.

Shriya N — Google review

Love this museum, I think it is the best out of all the Smithsonian’s. There are so many interactive exhibits and videos to watch, and they’re all spread out; so it helps keep the masses of people from being on top of each other. The reason I gave 4 stars is that I wish it was open longer! The tickets are time-entry and one of time slots is 4pm.. by the time you get in the museum you have an hour before it closes which is NOT enough time to see or do even half of what the museum has to offer. The “same-day” tickets are a joke, there’s maybe like 10 tickets available and they’re at the 4pm time slot. I got tickets in advance to our trip but tried to get same-day for a better time slot, was waiting at 8:30, when they became available, and I didn’t get tickets.

Megan C — Google review

First visit since the renovations, they are still making updates. If you are into the history of aviation in America this is your place. Comparatively the other museum A&S museum in Chantilly is s more open space and focuses on displaying various aircraft. This one also has aircraft displays but more curated with multimedia displays and various miniature models. I made a reservation the day before our visit and it was pretty easy. I went on a weekday morning in mid march at 11am. It was still pretty busy, but manageable. My only critique is that the placement as well as the wording of the exhibits could improve. There were times that i was searching to try to find an explanation of what i was looking at.

T S — Google review

Yes, you must pay to enter. Was it worth it? Did my young children enjoy this museum? Yes, we had such a good time we will visit again. I mean, just the planes were cool. But they have someone around to help you with history and events that are so important to know. This is a must go museum. The kids had an amazing time, and you will, too. If anything, do it once and I guarantee you will have a great time.

Jonathan N — Google review

Great experience! Sadly a big part of the museum is closed due to maintenance, but still worth it.Make sure to set your space in order to access the museum.

Roberto Q — Google review

4.6

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600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

(202) 633-2214

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11

Lincoln Memorial

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Monument

Sights & Landmarks

The Lincoln Memorial is a towering tribute to American president Abraham Lincoln, with sculptures and murals depicting his life and work. It can get extremely busy during the day, so it's best to visit during dawn or late at night when it's less crowded.

I flew to DC in November. We decided to visit the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. No regrets! The park is very historic with lots to see. The souvenir shop nearby is worth checking out. They have postcards and other gifts. It was checked off my bucket list.

Nathan S — Google review

Reality Vs. Expectations 😊These pictures I posted are reality . The place is crowded with tourists or locals , just people all over the place . It was fun , a lot of walking going around all the tourists spots In Washington .Going to Lincoln Memorial is quite a challenge for your feet. Make sure you have a good pair of sneakers 😊 or rent a scooter or bicycle . It was fun going around on scooter . Just need your phone and credit card. Different scooter has different price. Goodluck 😊Lincoln Memorial reminds me of the movie “ Night at the Museum” . Lots of tourist taking pictures . Nice to sit down after a long walk and pictures taken . Breathe in and breathe out and enjoy .

Lee L — Google review

Extraordinary experience! The Lincoln Memorial gets proportionately larger the closer you get, and when you think what it symbolizes, it's larger than life. It's also the best spot on the National Mall to catch the most patriotic 4th of July fireworks with stunning views. The giant memorial starts casting a protective shade for the crowds around 3pm, which also makes it one of the most comfortable spots to wait in. This is an impressive place to visit all year around, day or night.

Fred H — Google review

It was great and the atmosphere there and around it was awesome. There is a shop inside i did not expect and a random room to the right. The stairs are pretty cool. There are a lot of stairs. There are street vendors outside of it and there is parking like a mile away. If you go here any time of day you will be happy and will definitely not regret your decision. If your in the District of Colombia, this is a must see spot.

Benjamin J — Google review

Free admission. Can be a climb though to reach the top floor, but it's worth it. Felt surreal seeing Lincoln's statue in person after having seen it a lot in the movies.Amazing views of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument from the steps of Lincoln Memorial.

Geralyn M — Google review

Truly spectacular memorial. An absolute must see. Lincoln is absolutely massive! It is very busy so trying to get a picture can be quite difficult without getting others in the frame. The site itself is well kept and clean. It’s lovely and spacious and nice and cool too.They had construction on the outside steps which for a photo op was annoying lol but the main masterpiece is inside of course.

Francesca P — Google review

We went to DC for our 1-year anniversary to do a complete walk-around of the city. The Lincoln Memorial was absolutely breathtaking. There's so much history in this beautiful building. Truly amazing

Sam B — Google review

Very awesome iconic site! The total cost is $0! This place is equipped with an elevator, bathrooms, little indoor museum area and gift shop. But most importantly, you can get some really cool photos of the Lincoln Memorial.Nice views from here of the reflection pool as well. Definitely check it out along with the other memorials when you're visiting Washington DC.5/5._____________________________________________________Follow me for more reviews, tips and photos!

MJG — Google review

Highly recommend going on a weekday morning. Wayyyyy less people.- Park around the tidal basin and see Jefferson first.-Then walk around the basin and see vietnam, Korean, MLK, and presidential memorials.-Make Lincoln your last stop.*- As of 3/20/24 the memorial has a lot of construction happening so keep that in mind for photos.

Lindsey R — Google review

My favorite attraction/memorial of the trip. It's beautiful. The reflecting pool leading up to the memorial is breathtaking. We visited in the afternoon riding scooters from the Washington monument area. Such a fun afternoon.

Erica C — Google review

This is my favorite building in all of Washington, DC. You can feel the power of history from the steps, imaging events like Dr. Martin Luther King’s speech. The building is a classic and perfect form. The views of the Washington monument and Capitol building are incredible. A short walk from the building you can check out the WWII memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the Vietnam War Memorial. It is also a nice walk from here to the Washington Monument. Love this monument!

John W — Google review

The last (or the first) monument on The Mall - and quite a spectacular one! It’s a statement monument rising above the reflecting pool and housing a statue of a sitting Abraham Lincoln made of white marble.There are some stunning views from the monument towards the reflecting pool and Washington monument. The Capitol can be seen as well, just not from the middle as it’s hidden behind the Washington monument. The steps are steep but safe, as the surface is not smooth, so even during the rain it’s perfectly safe to walk on them.The only problem with this place is how incredibly crowded it gets, be prepared to be pushed over by others, unless you visit early in the morning or late at night, and even then you won’t be alone. I visited at 6:30 AM (it was still dark) during the cherry blossom festival in March and several people were already wandering around. I also preferred the marvelous neoclassical memorial during low light conditions, it added another dimension to my experience.There is nothing inside apart from the statue of Lincoln and inscriptions of two of his speeches, nevertheless it is an amazing place to visit! Plenty of parking in the proximity and surrounding streets, you just have to come early enough to secure a spot.Visited in March 2023.PS: While walking on the stairs to the memorial, lift your eyes up to the frieze (top part of the building) and look at the inscription of the names of 36 states that were part of the Union at the time of Lincoln’s death.

Pavel D — Google review

Very cool place to see. Beautiful and free! There even a little gift shop as you walk in to the right with a lot of neat Lincoln related books, photos, and tons of other memorabilia. I highly recommend checking it out.

MacJennings — Google review

Visiting the Lincoln Memorial is always an awesome experience. Designed by Henry Bacon (1866-1924), it was constructed between 1915 and 1922. This is the closest the US has to a secular shrine. Perfectly located at the end of the Mall on the opposite end from the Capitol, the views across the Mall and the Reflecting Pool are epic. The Gettysburg address inside is a must read.

Nils P — Google review

A very special experience. I walked to it on a very cold Wednesday late morning and was one of very few around. The open air and cold wind passing through didn’t take from the stillness, the equanimity of this place. I’m thankful for the time I spent here reflecting on a life well lived.

Dan I — Google review

One of the gems and Washington, DC. This place is a must see and is absolutely free. The whole national mall is amazing and everything is free of charge and it feels like you never have enough time there.

Eric L — Google review

Perfect if you want to get your steps on. Going from one end of the water to the other probably took 15 minutes of walking, and we had to do that twice. Not complaining, though—there is a beautiful view of not only the memorial but also the surrounding nature. If you are a big history buff or are just intrigued by the idea of standing where former presidents stood, this is a must-visit.

C — Google review

Very impressive monument. Easily accessible. There’s street parking along the Potomac river and it’s a quick walk. A couple kiosks with food and drinks. Don’t forget to have your national park passport stamped in one of the official visitor bureaus or kiosks.

Olivier D — Google review

Not crowded in the mornings. The construction of Lincoln Memorial Museum was in place. Some of the ramps are blocked. Is a quiet place regarding the amount of people in there.

Johan C — Google review

There was a renovation job that covered half of the stairs, so that the statue cannot be easily seen from the outside. We have to climb up the stairs until the exact level where the statue positioned.Nevertheless, it’s still a good experience to see with own eyes the renowned statue we used to see in hollywood movies 😊.

Dian P — Google review

A great place to spend the day walking around the city and watching such beautiful places. The only thing I will tell you is that in architecture and terrain it is not provided for how the sound spreads and if you have sensitive ears, it can be very noisy when a plane or helicopter flies.

Anastassiya T — Google review

I'd rate the Lincoln Memorial in DC with four stars. While it wasn't my absolute favorite monument, I must admit that the view from there is undeniably pretty. The grandeur of the Lincoln statue and the historical significance of the location are impressive. It's a great spot for reflecting on American history and enjoying the view of the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument in the distance. However, the crowds can be overwhelming, and the interior space can feel a bit cramped during peak times. Nonetheless, it's a must-visit for anyone exploring the National Mall.

Fernando R — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20002, USA

(202) 426-6841

12

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

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Museum

Museum of space history

Specialty Museums

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, a branch of the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum located near Washington-Dulles International Airport in Chantilly, VA, offers a free museum experience that explores the history of human flight through an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft exhibits. With three times the size of its DC counterpart, this sprawling center showcases thousands of aviation artifacts from early manned flights to modern engineering advancements.

Wow amazingly big and nice air museum. If you love airplane or study for pilot or you have interest jn aviation, I recommend you go there. If you are not interested in aviation, you will still love it there. Same to me. It's worth my time and you too.It's perfect for single, couple or families with or without kids. Much fun there.Free to entry but the parking fee is $10 or less than $15. They have souvenirs..

Kehinde O — Google review

I visited on a Monday afternoon and spent two to three hours enjoying immensely the collection of aircraft in this museum. Admission is free, leaving only the $15 parking fee to pay. The Smithsonian does a great job keeping the place clean and getting people through security in a more than reasonable time. I also viewed my first IMAX film here and found the seating and experience overall to be worth the price of admission.The museum itself has a wide assortment of commercial and military aircraft to view from a short distance. The placards serve their educational purpose by providing historical context for the time periods in which the aircraft flew and their purpose along with a special fact or two. I was surprised to see examples of enemy aircraft also on display along with stories about how the museum came to own these artifacts of past wars. The Space Shuttle Discovery of course is a well known and deservedly highly visited centerpiece of the museum. The size of the Shuttle is rather awesome up close and lends to photo opportunities from multiple vantage points.A great place for children and adults to see and learn some aeronautical history to be sure. I could return next year for a refresher on all the exhibits and maybe take a closer look at some of the more subtle supplementary exhibits I did not see this time.

Michael G — Google review

If you’ve ever gone to the Air and Space Museum on the National Mall and thought, is this all there is, then this is the place for you.This is a true history of flight. Actual flying machines and how they’ve changed since we’ve reached for the skies and beyond. They have some of the earliest flying crafts man has attempted to board, all the way to modern fighting machines, and then out into outer space. The SR-71 blackbird is one of the jewels of this museum. It’s placement directly in front of the space shuttle discovery is one of the most iconic pictures from this museum. To look at how we’ve come from balloon flight to small, agile aircraft to these pieces of modern marvels of machinery and technology really blows the mind. There is so much to offer here. You should plan to spend at least half a day in the building.If you ever wonder what it’s like to be up in an air traffic control tower, they have a unique viewing area above the museum. Here you can see what it would be like to be in the Air Traffic control for Dulles airport.The IMAX theaters below are incredible for viewing some of the space programs and the flight simulators will give you an idea of what it would be like to fly some of these aerobatic airplanes.Come and enjoy one of the best kept secrets of the Smithsonian Museums.

Trent A — Google review

Absolutely Amazing! Hands down the best museum I have ever been to. So many historical and significant aircraft in one place. See the Discovery Space Shuttle, the first supersonic aircraft, the plane that dropped the bomb on Hiroshima, the first and only supersonic airliner, and many many more. Words cannot describe how amazing and life-changing this museum is. There is also an IMAX theatre, a viewing deck for Dulles Airport, and Shake Shack on site. Worth a trip to DC for this museum alone.

Thomas D — Google review

Tons to see from the history of aviation and space exploration. Hours will pass by rapidly and just scratch the surface. This is the type of museum that a few visits to would do it justice. Seriously, a tremendous amount of items to look at and learn about. Very well done.

Robb R — Google review

The larger air and space museum just outside Dulles airport. It is really wondrous how all these machines were built, and a great display of engineering marvels.The highlight is obviously the space shuttle and blackbird, but there are plenty of other exhibits including an Air France Concorde.It wasn't busy when we visited, but the place is so vast I can't imagine it ever being truly busy. The food in the Shake Shack is good, the special milkshake they have is outstanding. You can also visit a special tower to see planes taking off and landing, this is not good for those with vertigo...!Loved our time here and would thoroughly recommend going at every opportunity.Parking is $15 dollars but there is no entry fee. Obviously if you have small children there might need gift shop tax to pay...!

James H — Google review

Absolutely amazing museum, has an incredible variety of historically important aircraft, has some incredibly unique and rare aircraft on top of that. Only possible downside is that you can't get very close to many aircraft, but it's understandable to the reasons why that is the case, I highly recommend going! It's also free!

Liam B — Google review

Always a great experience to wander around this amazing museum. It's the newest extension to the exhibits downtown - and more. The complete history of flight is on display. Recommend that you experience the guided tours that happen frequently with very knowledgeable guides. Go up to the observation tower and get a 360 degree view of the beautiful landscape and the flights coming into and out of Dulles. Definitely visit anytime in the area.

Mike ( — Google review

This has to be one of the best things to do during a layover at any airport in the world - as well as being a fantastic day out in its own right. You can catch the 981/983 bus service from right outside Dulles to the museum. It’s $2 each way - and you need cash. No debit cards. Service runs every 20 mins. The museum is free (though if you drive it’s $15 parking) and you could easily spend 3+ hours there. From Concorde to an F35, the Discovery Space Shuttle and the alien-like SR71 Blackbird. This museum is a must for any aviation or space geek. It is a world class collection.

Ben M — Google review

There are so many incredible things to see here but the thing that steals the show is the space shuttle. Spent about 2 hours walking around each floor, getting a good up close view of everything, reading each description, and taking pictures. The fact that this is free is so cool. If you are hungry there is even a shake shack! Good on the museum for having quality food here. Before you leave make sure to stop by the observation tower to get a good look of the surrounding areas and see airplanes take off and land.

Sleepy C — Google review

Highly recommended!!! This is one of the most amazing museums we have ever been to. So much history in one place. From the Wright Brothers to the space shuttle. The free tours are very fun and informative. Admission is free. We just had to pay for parking.

Chuck P — Google review

Amazing place! A must see if you are in the area. One of a kind airplanes, and meticulously restored! They have a the Discovery Space Shuttle as well as other aircraft. They have examples of aircraft from man’s early flight to outer space. Highly recommend.

Joel S — Google review

One of the best museum experiences I've ever had. The museum is massive with displays from the birth of flight all the way through to our current space explorations with pieces from all over the world. Parking is abundant and free and the staff is extremely knowledgeable and courteous. Highly recommended for those visiting the area to spend a few hours immersed in our fascination with the skies.

Jay R — Google review

I visited this place about 10 years ago while I was out in the area for work, and it always stuck in my mind to come back. I made it back with my family today.It was better than I remember it.The exhibits are top notch. There's simulator rides, and Shake Shack for lunch, a tower you can get great views, and more aviation history then you could dream of.America's top notch contributions to aviation are here, the Space Shuttle Discovery, and SR 71, the F14, and more. Some of the planes we fought against are also here.There's also an IMAX theater on site.Parking is $15 that's your ticket in. What an amazing price. My 6 year old loved it, my wife loved it, I love it.

Dennis K — Google review

This is an absolutely amazing museum which will leave you inspired. Entry is free but parking costs $15 per car. Honestly, I felt the experience made up for the parking fee so it should not deter you.You can see so many planes, helicopters, and the famous Space Shuttle Discovery. I recommend taking one of the free tours which was very informative. I spent 2-3 hours, but there's a whole day's worth of activities to do.The observation tower is a must see as it gives a good view of planes landing at Dulles International Airport. I highly recommend this museum!!

Arnav A — Google review

It’s a very nicely done museum. I do believe for a real aviation junkie Wright Patterson would be better. The fact though they have a shuttle is really nice. The view when you first walk in looking down and seeing the SR-71 and the shuttle is awesome. We have young kids so we went rather quickly, spent about 2 hours there.

Scot S — Google review

This place is awesome! So many different aircraft to look at and learn about. They do have tours you can take where the guide will go more into detail about certain exhibits. Highly recommend.

Najwa D — Google review

An extremely fascinating museum with remarkable, one of a kind airplanes, spacecraft and more. Wonderful for any aviation enthusiast, although just about anyone would enjoy walking through here. Far less crowded than the Air & Space downtown, no big crowds when we were there.

Cole K — Google review

Without a doubt one of the best air and space museums in the country. They’re always moving things around and adding to the collection so there’s always something new to see. The look into the restoration hanger was incredible as well. Absolutely worth the visit 10 times over.

Brendan S — Google review

Super cool! I am a pilot and an aviation lover so I was bound to love it, but my brother and his wife who don't have any particular interest in aviation, came with me and they loved it too. It's super fun for families and kids. The museum is free, parking is $10. The fighter Sim was cool and 10 per person.

Seth T — Google review

Loved it! Just spent several hours there and I felt like a kid in a candy store. Such an abundance of incredible aviation and space machinery from the beginning of modern flight. I’d have a hard time choosing a favorite exhibit but was thrilled to see both the SR-71 Blackbird and Space Shuttle Discovery up close and in the flesh. Please visit, you won’t regret it.

Dennis P — Google review

Located 30 to 35 min west of the DC metropolitan area, this museum has a lot of both vintage and current air and space planes. I really enjoyed the openness of this hangar as well as the free tours that are offered hourly. We also enjoyed the staff members who had booths located throughout the museum who demonstrated subject matter expertise on certain aspects of STEM. Highly recommended and would come back again soon.

Yuji Y — Google review

Fantastic museum! Large open space with various different type of aircraft. They even have an SR-71, Concord, and Discovery space shuttle on display.They also have an IMAX theater. There a Burger Shack on site next to the gift shop.Entrance is free, however, there is a $15 fee for parking.The observation tower wasn’t crowded and had great 360 degree views. There are restrooms throughout. There were also different Discovery stations with brief presentations. Staff was very friendly.Would highly recommend as an inexpensive high quality place to visit in the D.C. area.

Aaron — Google review

This is an great place to visit. The museum is an extension of the Air & Space Museum in DC, but contains different exhibits. The exhibits cover early flight, WWI, WWII, the Cold War, civilian flight, and the Space Program. This is a good place for children, adults, people with a general interest in history, and people with a specific interest in aviation history and military history. The "tower" is a good experience that gives a great view of the Dulles runways and the surrounding countryside. As of July 25, 2023, there is a Shake Shack within the museum. This is a must visit. While entry to the Museum is free, there is a $15 parking fee.

John M — Google review

I can't say enough about this air and space museum. My wife & I enjoyed this museum very much. If you are interested in early flight through to the Discovery shuttle this is the place for you. We spent 1 1/2 days here. The first day we walked around and took lots of pictures. The second day we walked around and took a free tour, which was very informative. We suggest you take the tour at some time during your visit. And make sure you go up into the tower and watch planes arrive and take off from Washington Dulles airport. You can also listen to the Washington Dulles control tower as planes arrive and takeoff. Great place to visit for flight enthusiasts from 9-90.

David B — Google review

This is truly a hidden gem as far as museums in this area are concerned. There's so much to see and so much to learn as you explore all of the exhibits. Lots of neat planes, helicopters, and spacecraft to check out. Very family friendly. Lots of open space to walk freely so you won't get bogged down by crowds except maybe in the gift shop.

Ariel — Google review

This was an amazing place to visit if you enjoy aircraft history. So many memorable aircraft there including the Enola Gay and an SR71 Blackbird. Also there are quite a few experimental aircraft from Germany captured after World War II. Quite exciting to see.This is part of the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum but contains aircraft that wouldn't fit or couldn't be brought into Washington DC proper. It's about a 45 minute drive from where I was staying in Bethesda so check it out.

Randy — Google review

Last Thursday (Christmas week break), my family and I had the opportunity to visit the Air and Space Museum, and it was an experience worth sharing. The museum offers an extensive walk through the annals of American aerial history, showcasing not just the remarkable milestones achieved by the country but also highlighting the power of international collaboration.Each exhibit was a testament to the advancements in aviation and space exploration, capturing the essence of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of progress. The displays were well-curated and informative, providing a comprehensive overview that was both educational and engaging for all ages.What stood out the most was the emphasis on the collaborative efforts between the United States and other countries in achieving these aerospace milestones. It was a powerful reminder of how shared knowledge and joint endeavors have propelled us into new frontiers.The visit was not just a fun outing, but also an enlightening journey that deepened our appreciation for the history and future of air and space exploration. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the skies above and beyond.

Ayush S — Google review

This place is unbelievable. The best aviation museum i have ever been to!! So unbelievable i had to go there twice in one week on our vacation. All kinds of historic aircraft and to top it off the discovery shuttle is there also. A major must see!

Bubz 1 — Google review

It is located in 7 Hectares area and started in the year 1999. There is good collection and display of different kinds of air crafts well arranged at different levels for better visibility all-round. There is a watch tower in the premises from which landings of flights of Washington DC airport. The collection includes Boeing B-29 which dropped first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, Space shuttle Discovery and Gemini4 capsule and many more. Must visit place. There is ample parking.

Gangadhar C — Google review

This is my favorite museum in the DC area! Admission is free, but parking is $15 (as of May 2024). If you are not familiar with the aircraft on display, there is a one-hour guided tour. One of the tour guides is a former SR-71 pilot. If you prefer an unguided tour, it is rather easy to walk around and learn just by reading the signs in the displays. There is something here for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.

Walter ウ — Google review

Although it was a very busy weekend, there was enough parking and there was no line. It cost $15 for parking. The museum is very big and has so many amazing airplanes and spaceships. We enjoyed the WW2 section. The airplanes are well kept. Free tour guides were provided. You need a ticket to get up to the tower. The only restaurant inside is Shake Shack and the line was very long during meal time. Better eating outside.

Gemma P — Google review

If you are interested in aviation, visiting this museum should be high on your list. There are so many aircraft to experience. So much history! There are even several simulators available to get the real feel of handling the stick! I especially like the area where you can see aircraft being restored. Currently, the B-26, Flak-bait, is being worked on.

Rene T — Google review

This place was amazing! Even if you are not into airplanes, it was still fascinating. All the displays are beautifully presented. They even have the space shuttle Discovery there. The ship is HUGE! I had no idea!If you have an opportunity to go here, make sure you go on tour with one of their docents. So much information! Also, don’t miss a trip to the observation tower with its 360-degree view.

Yvonne K — Google review

The museum is a well curated experience and narrative of aviation over the years, from wars, to space expeditions and commercial airlines. Great place to take kids as there are simulators and adults for the well guided tours.I had a great experience with my tour guide who was an ex-pilot who helped answer my many questions with a smile on his face.The museum is free and the parking charge is $15. There is a restaurant and a theatre as well.I recommend going early as many of the attractions (sitting inside a plane, observatory) close early. The last IMAX show is at 4:30. I also recommend seeing the restoration hangar.My only complaint is the lack of relevant data on the description boards, not enough use of narrative to thrill the experience. You may need to have a prior interest in aviation unless you're a child, then it's cool.

Aayush M — Google review

This is an amazing place! So much to see. It is easy to get to and free to enter. Only have to pay $15 for parking. It is truly hard to believe how they got so much stuffed into the space provided. Even the souvenir shop is priced well. Definitely a place to stop by and check out.

Scott G — Google review

4.9

(25187)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (104)

5.0

(4518)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (105)

14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151, USA

(703) 572-4118

13

George Washington's Mount Vernon

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Mentioned on

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Historical landmark

Museums

Mount Vernon, a well-known historical attraction, was the cherished residence of George and Martha Washington from their marriage in 1759 until George's death in 1799. The estate is decorated with authentic pieces from the era and contains personal items belonging to the former president. Visitors can take guided tours of the furnished main house to learn about the daily lives of its former occupants, while self-guided tours offer opportunities to interact with actors portraying individuals working and living on an 18th-century plantation.

Interesting and historical look at where the first president of the United States lived and died.Beautifully manicured grounds house this patriot and his wife’s final resting place.Great afternoon spent strolling the grounds and learning about the life of George Washington and his wife and family.

Shaya M — Google review

We visited George Washington's Mansion last weekend at Mount Vernon, VA. We had a great time. It's a must see and good for all ages. The mansion and location itself is well preserved and maintained. I love how the tour guides are knowledgeable about the historic place, they are friendly too and answers your questions well.Don't forget to stop by the museum too, they have a lot of interesting historic items that they use back in the days. And good information about The Washington.If ever you got hungry, they have a restaurant right before the entrance that you can also try, or the food court upon exiting the museum.They also have a souvenir shop upon exiting the museum. Overall, We had a great experience.

JoJo Q — Google review

I cannot say enough great things about Mt Vernon! Beautiful grounds and property! Wonderful staff! Incredible restaurant! Great place to hang out for a day and learn about early American history. Our server Justin was great! I highly recommend this spot 👌

Andrew N — Google review

A really nice place to visit, both the house and the grounds are nice to walk around. The house can be seen from the inside when booking a tour however, it is more a walkthrough than a proper guided tour, bet nevertheless still very nice to see. The garden and surrounding areas are beautiful and well kept and give some additional information about the history of the house, the people who lived there and how all was used in the time. The museum is very interesting and very nicely laid out and well worth the visit as well. There is plenty of parking when not visiting during the high season.

Jos B — Google review

Believe me, you have to do this! Great museum and education center, very informative and educational, and fun for the whole family. a little crowded mansion tour but cannot miss it! The ground is large (be prepared to walk A LOT) and pretty. I enjoyed the garden tour. The guide was kind and knowledgeable. They offer so many different kinds of tours, and surprise interactive opportunities throughout. Gift shop is huge with everything you could imagine, food court is fine, plenty of tables and seats. Really cannot think of anything bad. They also hold varieties of events throughout the year, check them out. Since I live not too far away (35-45 mins), I got a membership today. Will go back whenever I can!

Serena L — Google review

Incredible! If you can go, Go! Great for all ages. We took a family of 4, ages 10-40 and everyone enjoyed it. History and information galore that you didn't know you wanted to know, but you absolutely do!We went on George Washington's Birthday celebration which provided so much entertainment. The museum and 4D movie is a must! The mansion tour is worth the time. I'm not sure if Washington himself is there all the time, but meeting him on the estate was a fun surprise.

Mark W — Google review

It was a great place to visit. As you walk around the grounds there are plenty of people who will share information about the place. We did the house tour with is $2 more per person and it was awesome. So much history and loads of walking. Easy to do with a stroller. We used the free shuttle to take us from the river back up to the house!

Janie B — Google review

This was my first time to Mount Vernon. We bought tickets for the mansion and then we walked the grounds. Make sure to check the weather. Going to see it on a gorgeous day makes all the difference. Before I go any further, I would like to say thank you to all of the staff and owners who have done a great job of preserving the history and beauty of Mount Vernon. Be sure to buy tickets in advance. You will be able to select your desired time slot on the website. There is parking on site, but the lots are narrow, so keep that in mind. The staff are pretty knowledgeable, so ask whatever questions you have. There is also a gift shop and food truck on site with tables to eat outside. The views are unbelievable! Make sure to take some time and visit this historical location you won't be disappointed.

Justin — Google review

Although the ticket price is a bit high, it is worth it for the amount of sights and information here. The staff is so knowledgeable and friendly. I personally really appreciated the effort made by the site to also talk about the history of the enslaved people who lived here. A lot of historical sites about the founding fathers try and brush over that part of our nation’s history, but I felt the staff and plaques here attempted to also include their stories! I will for sure come back for the national treasure tour, we decided to wait because the basem*nt of the house was under repair.

Reese ( — Google review

The chance to walk through George Washington’s home was incredible! The house and grounds are meticulously cared for and staffed.The mansion tour was informative, though rushed. I had so many questions and did not have the opportunity to ask.The museum portion was informative and interactive. We enjoyed the movies that made the life and times of George Washington more real for my kids.Throughout the grounds there were staff dressed in period apparel that were knowledgeable to answer questions.

Amanda P — Google review

The historic significance of this home is just something!! The greatest American President ever lived, learned & worked here! As a history buff I was thoroughly impressed. Also stunningly beautiful. The landscaping and gardens were so beautiful. HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Michael B — Google review

While walking through this place I tried to imagine if I had lived in those days. Washington sure knew a thing or two about location. The view and grounds to at this place is so serene, but wear comfy walking shoes. The staff was very friendly and they could answer just about every question. Get there early the boat ride only happens twice, once around 1, the last around 12:30. I’m thinking a week day visit would be more beneficial for your trip. Go check out some history, this is a good place to start.

Deborah W — Google review

Great for a nature walk. I did some birdwatching while there and enjoyed the scenery while there. A lot of open space to have a picnic after seeing the house and grounds. Overall, it’s a great day all day activity for the family.I did go during the day on a weekday so it was not too crowded.

Rodricka E — Google review

Rainy day in December was well spent here. The visitor center and museum along with the mansion tour were great for indoors, and the gardens were still beautiful. We strolled through the landscape and found one of the trees Washington planted, as described in the book 'Founding Gardeners', one of my inspirations for coming here. Holiday decorations made it even more beautiful and enjoyed a lunch in the Inn. We drove back along George Washington Parkway, which starts here and ends in DC, a lovely drive. Highly recommend!

Heidi B — Google review

A must see when you come to the Washington DC area. Lots of great history. You get to know a bit more about our greatest founding father. Worth the trip. Have lunch at the restaurant. It is worth it.

John S — Google review

We loved it! 👏 Family of 4 (parents & 2 grownup children). Very interesting historic site! The guides were very knowledgeable and good to tell stories and the whole area and museum is amazing 🤩👍 We wish we had known about the ship and had time to take a tour on the river with that as well. Maybe next time 😊

Lisbet M — Google review

During Washington's very short retirement years, he is said to have entertained so many guests that he likened his home to a tavern, yet he remained a gracious and courteous host to all. The Mount Vernon Ladies Association does a remarkable job continuing this tradition. The General's estate is beautiful and well maintained, which is no small feat given the fact that they accept no government funds to maintain the property. It is, by far, my favorite place to visit, and I highly encourage everyone to not only visit Washington's home but to consider helping in the upkeep of this remarkable piece of history.

Michael H — Google review

We went on a day when it was raining and still stayed for 8 hours. While the mansion tour was lovely, the grounds of Mount Vernon are really spectacular! We loved all the little buildings and history and stories behind them. We caught a music demonstration and a reenactment of one of Martha's slaves. The quotes by George and Martha on the grounds were also interesting. I bought a book in the gift shop (amazingly large with unique items) to get to know them better. The museum is fantastic. The 4D movie was my favorite. And we ate at the restaurant-- it was so delicious. I definitely want to visit again!

Emily P — Google review

The admission fee is $26 per person, including the museums, the maison visit and a tour.The entire space is huge, including a farm, stables, and a great view over the Potomac.The mansion itself is well-maintained. We could see authentic arrangement of the Washington family. The tour guides are well trained, sharing interesting stories without being overwhelming.This is my go-to whenever I’m hosting friends around DC.

J. C — Google review

We took our kids to visit while studying presidents in school. We bought tickets online ahead of time to do the mansion tour, national treasure tour and a river tour. We enjoyed the first 2 tours very much. The guide on the National treasure tour was good. Sadly we tried to grab a bit to eat at the food truck and ended up missing the bus. It actually left the dock a couple minutes early as we were running down the hill to the dock. So make sure you arrive early for that. Otherwise we had a great family experience and we learned a lot and appreciate more what George Washington did for our country 🇺🇸

Carole P — Google review

Despite not advertising the fact, we were able to buy a disabled ticket and my husband was free as my carer which was just as well as there was so much that I couldn't see from my wheelchair. Obviously these are historical buildings so putting in lifts is out of the question so paying a reduced rate seems the only fair option.The restroom situation was far from ideal. There wasn't a separate accessible restroom which my husband could come in and help me. I had to battle through 2 sets of doors - with no push button opening so it's really hard to manage a chair and the doors. The cubicle was decent but the door opened directly onto the dryer. The way the door opened meant that I couldn't see that a woman was drying her hands and I squished her as I opened the door. Mortifying for me and painful for her. Thankfully, she was incredibly nice about it.A rethink on the layout is much needed!!

Elizabeth W — Google review

It was really fun being here. More walking than I thought, but really nice.Though I went there when there were several schools there. So it was more packed than normal. The food in the food court was ok, I had had worse. I wish I had seen the restaurant instead. It's hidden away, and it looked good.But overall, a nice experience.

Regal F — Google review

This is a great experience, especially in the spring. Everything looks exactly how it would've in 1798, down to the fake ponytail slinking out of the Revolutionary Army cot! The gardens were especially nice. Somehow, the gardeners at Mount Vernon managed to grow an apple tree in the shape of a fence, and used it as one! There's also an excellent and scenic view of the Potomac from the grounds.

Alex L — Google review

Very cool place. Several food options here and places to get souvenirs. The grounds are gorgeous and I was in awe looking at some of the huge trees planted over 200 years ago. The pictures don't do it justice. We went on a Friday in late April and it was busy, but I didn't feel overly crowded.

Jasmine E — Google review

Somewhat disappointed. First it should be part of our national park system. Secondly for the price there really wasn't much to see. Poor timing on my part because the gardens were not blooming much and half the Mansion was under renovation. Definitely enjoy the history of the mansion and how it was expanded from just a small building to what it is today.

Dennis C — Google review

It is such a beautiful historical place. The half of the house under renovation right now, but believe it is a lot to see there anyway. Walk around, breathe fresh air, enjoy view, get back in George Washington time. Amazing museum. Also here you can visit his grave and honor the memory of such a great president.

Polina M — Google review

I've been dying to go here for years. I finally got to go and I wasn't disappointed. I love history and have done a lot of reading of our Founding Fathers. It's easy to get around and it's well marked. It's not necessary to have a personal tour but it helps to get some inside info. Don't forget to go by the gift shop. I got a bottle of Washington's original recipe whiskey.

Edward M — Google review

Highly recommended - 3 hours minimum to visit the site and probably a full day if you can spare it..!The main house tours take you through the entirety of the house as you follow a line of people.The adjacent museum was very well done and informative - specifically the 4D movie and interactive Washington decision game.Free public WiFi was available through most of the campus, too.

Ryan S — Google review

Very fun visit with lots of history involved. I learned a lot on my visit. I enjoyed looking at the architecture and also all of the views of the place that make it what it is. I wouldn’t recommend for extremely young kids as it can be boring at points but overall it is a nice experience with lots of learning.

Account G — Google review

We stopped here on the recommendation by a friend. We were really glad we did. We bought grounds tickets online in advance it said tickets to the house were not available for the day we were going, but once we got there we were able to get some. Plenty of parking, and no wait to get in. Tickets to the house are a timed entry so we toured the grounds first. Beautiful and so serene. Right on the Potomac River. The Tomb is something to see. We made the rounds of pretty much everything. They have you line up for the house entry at your entry time and not before then we had another 20 to 30 minute wait- so for our 1:00 entry we probably actually got in around 1:30. The actual tour of the house is about 20 minutes. But is still worth it.

Melissa K — Google review

4.8

(14666)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (110)

4.5

(4837)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (111)

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA 22121, USA

(703) 780-2000

14

Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center

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History museum

Sights & Landmarks

The Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center is a living history museum that accurately recreates life in 18th century America. The attraction contains 88 original buildings, as well as hundreds of faithful reproductions, and employs actors in period costumes to immerse guests in the experience. Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about colonial life in America.

Informative and very fun! Don’t hit everything, just what you’re interested in. Expensive and not as immersive as I’d hoped, but still recommend. I wish their roads weren’t asphalt, but cobblestone or something more realistic.

Jaden L — Google review

It is completely our fault for realizing not a lot is open this time of year and NOTHING is open after 5pm. Fortunately, we had not yet bought tickets. So we bought the self-guided audio walking tour from Action Tour Guide. I loved it. The 12 year old was bored and the 16 year was nostalgic from when she came with grandparents when she was younger. Not a criticism, just a heads-up.

Deborah M — Google review

Colonial Williamsburg exceeded expectations by far. I thought it was just going to be a tourist trap, but it wasn’t. Even the service at the ticket counter was super nice. The tickets are expensive but worth it if you spend the entire day. We walked over on the path from the welcome center, but there is also a shuttle. Our first stop was the governors palace. We attended a talk by Patrick Henry, and then we did a tour of the governors palace. Christine did a fantastic job. Everyone was extremely knowledgeable and nice to my kids. There are places to eat right offsite or in “town.” You can find the open exhibits because they have a flag outside. You cannot do everything in one day, so prioritize what you want to see.

Shannon B — Google review

Amazing and beautiful! Our family loves Williamsburg. An awesome opportunity to teach your littles a piece of history or maybe learn a little more yourself! You don’t need to purchase tickets to walk around but if you want to tour the insides or certain buildings you will need to purchase tickets online or at the visitor center. You can walk to the colonial town from the merchant square or if you start at the visitor center you walk over the bridge and start from there. There are shuttles as well that can take you to and from the historic area. Definitely worth the visit if you enjoy history!

Samantha S — Google review

Efficient handling of visitors with friendly, cheerful staff. Wonderful treatment of Veterans, including annual pass for the price of a single visit (one multi-day pass).Bright and comfortable environment.

Rita P — Google review

Peaceful atmosphere, great customer service, amazing food. I love the colonial houses with the wreath's and Christmas decorations. Photos taken Dec. 31, 2021. (Blue light started appearing in my pictures when I started taking pictures at the beautiful church)

Julie S — Google review

Informative and fun place to visit. Be sure to get at least the one day pass in order to get the full effect of the many docents and role players throughout the site. You can park and walk for free, but you need a pass to enter most of the historic buildings. See artisans at work: printers, blacksmiths, carpenters, bakers, homeowners, etc etc. You also get to ride the shuttle buses with a paid ticket. You can expect to do a lot of walking. NOTE: MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS are the days off for all of the main restaurants and some of the historic homes. You can take the shuttle or walk to the market area which is technically outside the historic district, and find some restaurants open. Also, if you are active, retired or a military vet, you will get discounts on admission and in any of the merchant stores. There's also a USO style building with free coffee and drinks. If you have a challenge coin, bring it and they will trade it for one of theirs. There's a wall full of ones that vets have brought in. All of this will be explained by the friendly ticket agents at the welcome center. You can avoid waiting in line by buying tickets online, but we had a lot more information from the live folks. All of the period costumed staff throughout the site are more than willing to assist with any questions you might have.

Dennis S — Google review

I went with my husband to see if I would enjoy it for a second time 25 years later. It did not disappoint. If you want to go on any tours such as a carriage ride or night ghost tour you need to book them in advance, they were sold out when we got there for the day. We did the guided tours watched Thomas Jefferson on the stage and enjoyed walking the town. We didn't pay attention to time and missed the taverns open hours so we picked up a few snacks from the bakery.

Linda K — Google review

15

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

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Theme park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a nature-themed amusem*nt park based in Europe. It offers an array of entertainment options ranging from rides, coasters, and shows to dining, river and rail attractions. In addition to the theme park, there are other exciting activities like zip lining, kayaking and water parks nearby. To save money on tickets, it's recommended to purchase them at least one day prior to visiting as prices increase for same-day purchases.

The rides and animals made for a amazing day… buy tickets in advance they have dynamic pricing and raise the price from 69 to 89 dollars for a same day purchase. You will save at least 20 dollars per ticket by purchasing the day prior to coming to park. It was a absolutely a blast I would recommend it definitely and bring plenty of water… hours of walking… go for it you will not regret…

Jonathan W — Google review

I'm not a big fan of roller coasters, though I did ride a couple. Even without riding many rides this is a beautiful place and a great way to spend your day. Definitely an experience! Plenty of good food as well.

Journi — Google review

Great time to visit. No waiting in long lines to ride. Only downfall, it was too hot. Having water cups available was great! Had a medical situation. The Busch Gardens employees at The Magic Shop went above and beyond with the attention and concern that was shown. EMT Alex was very attentive and thorough. Transportation to parking was provided by EMT Supervisor Ralph. Every courtesy that was extended was greatly appreciated.

Laurie G — Google review

We had a great time! It was very busy, however that was because of high schools bands having a competition. It was nice to see kids running around having a great time. I grew up going to Busch gardens in Florida, and this was my first visit to Williamsburg. We will definitely go again on our next visit.

Scruffy W — Google review

They were having there St. Patrick Day celebration and all the rides were not opened, but had fun, if going all day during the summer to ride all the rides opening till closing would recommend to get the food pass for $30 more but you get a full meal every 90 minutes. Enjoyed everything even the dinner theater show while eating. Hope to come back soon!!

Rachel P — Google review

This park was beautiful!! The rides have a nice array of thrill to chill that I love the variety. The food here was amazing! I recommend you get the all day meal plan , it is so worth the money! The shows we saw were top notch! The themes for the countries seemed very authentic and custom to the region you were in. If you are going to watch the fireworks we recommend using the bridge for the best view. But while everyone is watching those the ride lines open up a bit. The only issue we incurred while there was that they didn't have many shirts in large size, because they had sold out. I would definitely come back and bring my family!!

Stephanie B — Google review

My family and I went yesterday 7/4/23, our tickets were discounted for military appreciation and we got 10% off for purchases made in the park. My family had a ball. There was plenty to do for all ages of my family. My husband and I have a 3,8,and 9 year old my mother also attended with us.The food was great. We can’t wait to go back

Anisha J — Google review

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is my favorite theme park. Emphasis on theme because this park nails the theme in each of the areas. Every area focuses on a specific area of Europe. The rides are a lot of fun, many of them are kid friendly. The thrill rides are also great, providing different levels of excitement for everyone. Employees are friendly and helpful, making sure the experience is special for every guest.We also participated in the steam engine train tour. This was really special. Recommend for any train enthusiast. They take you into the train depot and show you the engine and teach you about how it works. The tour guide who led us on the tour was very friendly and even gave us a quick queue on a ride while waiting for the train.

Nicolas N — Google review

Absolutely one of the most beautiful amusem*nt parks. Lots of trees and lots of shade to avoid the heat if needed. Lots and very fun roller coasters to enjoy. Has a lot of children rides to offer as well. Great entertainment and fantastic seasonal activities all year long. Highly recommend!

Michael — Google review

It was the last weekend of Howl-o-scream so it was busy for sure. We got there around 11 with a plan to stay through the 6pm change over from the amusem*nt park to scream fest. It was the best choice. This allowed us to get on a lot of rides with little to no wait. As the day progressed the lines got longer and longer but we didn't care as we had already done the rides. We were off to enjoy food and shows. Speaking of shows, don't miss the Skeletones....they were great! By the time we had eaten, played games, and caught a few shows; it was 15 minutes before the spooky started so we headed right for the witch in the woods and Nevermore. We were able to do both with no wait but by the time we came out of the second one, the lines were huge. The park continued to fill up even as we left at 9 and there were cars lined up as far as the highway trying to get in at 9pm! Overall, it was a fantastic day, great food, great shows, and great actors for the Howl-O-Scream. We will be making this an annual trip for this event!

Kevin K — Google review

We love BG! We live locally so we visit often. The most recent visit was with a 5yo and 3yo. Plenty of rides and activities for each of their ages. It's quite a bit of hilly walking so definitely bring a wagon/stroller for little ones. Bring your own water bottle(s) and pack snacks if you don't want to spend your life savings on food.

Annie H — Google review

Always a great place to take the whole family to. They have many ways to get around the park to include a train. They also shuttle to and from the Germany, Italy, and Ireland parking lotsIf you’re a single rider like my self the have a lane for that for most of the roller coasters.Food and drinks are also affordable, but I’d recommend buying a food pass.

Keith K — Google review

I used to work in Busch Gardens Williamsburg for 5 months, and I had a chance to ride every single roller coaster again and again :)Best time is to come at opening and you start with every country to explore the entire park. Spend the entire day if you want to have the most fun and experience the park. Buy yourself the express pass, because the lines are long long long. Save money on food or gifts if you, need to... but buy the pass.I have been here few to visit the park after, because it is definitely the best amusem*nt park in the US. I also visited the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay which very fun, but this park is better.

Dragan A — Google review

One of my all time favorite parks! There's a reason it's been rated the WORLD'S most beautiful theme park for 33 YEARS straight! Great rides, great food and atmosphere. I could live in the park if they'd let me!

Brian H — Google review

Busch Gardens is one of the most beautiful amusem*nt parks I have been to. You can go on roller coasters and rides; some of my favorites are Finnegan’s Flyer & Invader. You can enjoy shows with spectacular actors and singers. And they have food corresponding to the different European countries the areas the park is based off of. I recommend purchasing the all day dining pass so that you can have the option to eat every 90 minutes. You must go here if you are visiting or local!

Francisco C — Google review

Lovely park. Nowhere near the world's most attractive, despite the awards, but it's in the top of 20. Despite the blistering heat, the staff were mostly happy to help and the restrooms very clean and fresh. There's free water at every soda fountain location and snacks, etc. The ride queues are woefully inaccurate (both ways) and the fast track very expensive. It's possibly my favourite Busch park.

Lee M — Google review

Lots of fun. The coasters are all amazing. Went for Halloween on a Thursday and there were only a couple of rides with long(ish) wait times. It is hard to navigate at night with all the lights off. We kept going in circles and probably missed half the park

Jeremy — Google review

The Christmas town was great. The concept of different countries was exciting.The rides were amazing. It's a good place to have fun during the holidays with kids especially. They will enjoy it thoroughly.

Avanthika B — Google review

I have always loved this theme park. I took my 4 kids (12, 9, 7 and 5) for Christmas town and it was a blast with huge variety of entertainment and rides open. They constantly update rides and have managed the lines really well. The only reason why I left it at 4 stars is because the bathrooms need more attention for cleanliness, the little kids rides need more people to help put them on and take them off (the wait time to get them in and out was far longer than the rode itself). Again it was still a great time and I highly recommend visiting!

Michael H — Google review

Returning to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for the Christmas season was a revelation. Having visited in the past, I thought I knew what to expect, but the park's transformation for the holidays was nothing short of magical. The moment I stepped through the gates, I was greeted by a dazzling display of Christmas lights, stretching as far as the eye could see. It was like walking into a winter wonderland, with every tree, building, and pathway adorned with twinkling lights that brought the festive spirit to life.The atmosphere was perfect for a family night out. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and Christmas carols, and the scent of seasonal treats wafted through the air, creating a sense of warmth and joy. Despite the park being quite busy, the crowd did not detract from the experience. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits, and the staff did an excellent job of managing the flow of visitors, ensuring that the magic of the season was not lost in the hustle and bustle.Christmas Town, the park's seasonal event, was the highlight of the visit. Each section of the park was themed to different Christmas traditions from around the world, offering a unique and educational experience. The shows were heartwarming and entertaining, with talented performers bringing holiday stories to life. The rides, too, had a special touch, with festive music and decorations making even familiar thrills feel new again.In conclusion, Busch Gardens Williamsburg during Christmas is an experience I would highly recommend. It's a place where the joy of the season is palpable, and the memories made are sure to be cherished. Whether you're revisiting or experiencing it for the first time, the park's festive transformation is guaranteed to fill you with holiday cheer.

Bruno M — Google review

A really beautiful park!! We really enjoyed walking through the different countries as they are well decorated. We also were pleasantly surprised that we had no wait times on any of the rides. The service was really hit or miss… several people were super kind and nice and others were clearly not thrilled to be there. But overall, a very positive experience!! Looking forward to coming back

Emily M — Google review

We bought the combined Williamsburg Busch Garden pass. When driving in stay all the way to the LEFT when crowded because 4 extra lanes open up. Excellent park to please everyone. Lots of wild roller coasters and plenty of other exhibits to see like the wolves, owls, Clydesdales, Border collies, horned sheep. Plus several shows to see. Loved the Celtic dancing. Great restaurants and large quantities at reasonable prices. If you are there for the whole day I recommend the $50 all you can eat. 90 minute wait after ordering. Get entry, side or dessert and drink each time. If you just eat twice you more than cover the cost and quantities are enough to share especially if you are eating every 90 minutes. The Smoke House sampler plate was the best. And the cake in the German Fest hall was huge. We really enjoyed the Clyde’s and collies tour that was extra but kids really enjoyed petting the horses and feeding the sheep. Linh was a very knowledgeable tour guide. Best time to visit is when it rains in the morning. Our second day there were no cars in line and they sent us to preferred parking because they didn’t want to run the tram with no customers. No wait to get in the park. It was empty so the best time to ride when the rain stopped.

James S — Google review

They have become cashless since the last time I went about 10 years ago. Some waits are longer than others. I felt safe on the roller-coasters. They make sure everyone is the correct size and that everything latches. I have only 2 real complaints: the lines should be supervised because there are multiple rides where teens were skipping in line. Seriously skipping the line, like 20-50 people at a time when the lines curved back into themselves, and no one stopped them. The bathrooms could be cleaner.

W N — Google review

Me and my family do trips here at least three times a year and we do our boys trip here for two days out of the year! We have been here for howl scream and all and have to say this is one of the best parks to come too and cleanest. I rather come to this park than any other parks around! Everyone here that works here always has a smile on there faces and will always give great advice and directions if you get lost. And definitely the best ride to ride first. Best part to bring your family, friends, spouse kids.

Jonathan H — Google review

As awesome as it was since the first time I went there 35 years ago. It’s gotten consistently better as the years have gone on. The countries as well as the roller coasters have been added to over the years. The food offerings continue to be updated. I always enjoy my visits

Luke B — Google review

I hate to say it, but Christmas Town just isn't as nice as it used to be. I'm glad we got tickets on sale and not at full price. Parking is $30 just for the general lot. In fairness, if you have the full season pass, your general parking costs are included & there is no additional charge for Christmas Town visits.Having been to Christmas Town before, I was expecting so much more than what was presented. There weren't as many displays as previous times and many lights were either broken or simply not turned on. The shops also didn't have much Christmas merchandise with the exception of one store in Germany. It just seemed very lackluster overall. Also, my husband and another gentleman behind him both almost fell in the bathroom due to wet toilet paper being all over the floor. The women's restroom was quite clean. The hot chocolate was pretty good, I did buy a cute Christmas decor item and the light show on Escape from Pompeii was awesome!Honestly, I just don't think it was worth the cost this year.

C J — Google review

My family visited on December 30, 2023 to experience Christmas Town 🎄 ✨️ ❤️. Busch Gardens has always been a family favorite since I was a small child and continues to be as I am now a mother of teen children.The only reason for 4/5 stars is the expense. Like all theme parks, prices are much higher for food, tickets, and shops. Other than that, this park is well maintained and gorgeous anytime of the year. Several coasters are available for thrill seekers as well as mellow rides for those who just want to sit back. The park offers several options for small children. Throughout the park, there are places for resting and areas for shopping. Take 👟 good walking shoes as the park is NOT flat. Hills are throughout the park. If visiting during the summer, you'll also want to bring water friendly shoes too such as flip flops. Lockers are available to store items if you don't want them to get wet or to carry them around the park.Strollers are available to rent for the day.Bags 🎒 are permitted, but are subject to a search upon entry.

Brittany L — Google review

Amazing experience, a place of fun for all ages. All the staff who work there are very friendly. you can get all kinds of food and a lot of variety. : Italian, German, Dutch, American.

Francisco C — Google review

Enjoyed going to Christmas Town. The last time I went was 2009! Didn’t have to wait very long for rides. Saw some of the animals. Family members enjoyed shopping in the boutiques. Some fun shows around the park. We did the Santa experience and the fireside feast. The Santa experience was short and not a lot of value for the price. The fireside feast was a bit better though manage your expectations on the food. Thought it was a bit rude how people left right after eating and didn’t even wait for Santa to say goodbye. We loved the way Santa read the Christmas story.

Marc B — Google review

4.5

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4.5

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1 Busch Gardens Blvd, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

(757) 229-4386

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16

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

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Art museum

Museums

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a highly respected art museum situated in Richmond, Virginia. With an extensive collection of artwork from around the world, the VMFA strives to educate and enrich the lives of its patrons through various programming and outreach initiatives.

An absolutely amazing experience. It was raining so we couldn't enjoy the outdoors. It was so much to see. I would have to come back. Artwork and collections are beautiful. Definitely coming back!! A nice place for a date. Food served for a price the reflect the cost for buying from a museum.

Atiyah A — Google review

100% recommend coming to this art museum! It is FREE and only costs $6 to park. What I like most about this museum is that there is an exhibit for everyone! Everything from Egyptian tombs to traditional paintings to contemporary art and even stunning jewelry and furniture. There is EVERYTHING here! I visited in January and had a fantastic time. I would recommend this place to anyone and plan to bring friends back. This is 100% the best art museum I’ve ever been to. I think it’s even better than the one in D.C. (way less crowded too). There are also tons of clean restrooms and a nice gift shop. You could easily spend 5+ hours here - it’s a spectacular museum.(10th time trying to post this review 🙄)

Victoria O — Google review

Amazing museum! Very family friendly and it has a surprising amount of art(50k pieces!). We spent a few hours there and still didn't see all of the art. Admission is free, but I would have paid to visit this place. There are Faberge eggs there! Definitely a must visit if you're in Richmond!

Clay L — Google review

I've been going to the VMFA for 35 years and watching it grow has been kind of incredible. While it has had over the years some interesting and not so interesting shows that cost money to see, it's their permanent collections that really impress. We went on a recent Saturday and it was not crowded at all. We spent 2 hours looking and only got through the second floor in that time. The VMFA has a very varied collection, fine art of all periods, ancient antiquities, an elaborate silver collection, Faberge eggs and frames, Asian and African art, furniture, jewelry and all types of Tiffany pieces and art glass. You are allowed to photograph but no flash. It was free to get in but you need tickets to see some temporary exhibits that are visiting. This is the only place it seems lacking, most of these shows are of limited interest and not anywhere near as impressive as their permanent items. We had no problem with any staff. It would be nice if people visiting a museum knew had to act in public though. Talking loud, laughing, carrying on like they were at a mall and not a museum. Still the place is big enough that you can make the effort to avoid those people. The area around the museum is also very beautiful.

James H — Google review

Museum has something for everyone. Great way to spend a day in downtown Richmond. The Faberge section was my favorite but also enjoyed the Egyptian items. Fiance is more into art and to see Picasso and Renoit in person is amazing. Gift shop has a lot of age different items to choose from, and Cafe for the munchies so you don't have to leave too soon. Plan to spend about 3 hours if you really want to appreciate it all. Cameras are allowed just without flash. Museum is free but tickets are needed for additional area such as the Samurai armor.

J T — Google review

Great place to attend. New art. I love art. Art is part of me. If it's part of you, then visit this place. You won't regret it. I promise.

Derek L — Google review

Impressive museum with collections from various cultures/time periods including Ancient Greek/Roman, African, American, Native American, European, and East/South Asian. However, what made this museum a little more special for me was the Art Deco/Nouveau section which is rarely part of the main galleries of the art museums.General admission is FREE which is great as you can really take your time and see part of the museum and then come back at another time to see the rest.In addition to the permanent collections they also do have ongoing exhibitions (some of them requires you to buy tickets).Sculpture garden is nice to take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee or have a bite at a nice day.Inside the museum masks are optional.Free street parking nearby or $6 museum parking.Overall an excellent experience - thanks everyone contributing the smooth operation of this museum, your work is really appreciated!

Burcu — Google review

I am New to Richmond. I just moved here from New York. The Virginia museum of fine arts was my first outing as a resident. It was amazing. There is no way to cover it all in one day or even two! There is so much to see. It has so much to offer! I will be going back!

Michelle R — Google review

This is a beautiful contemporary art museum. It felt very calming and peaceful as we walked through the galleries. Beautiful artwork and furniture collections from different time periods. Would love to visit again!

Kerri A — Google review

This is one of my favorite museums (and I grew up going to the Smithsonian Museums all the time)! I always visit the Faberge exhibit, it is exquisite! The museum also allows and encourages photography, so have fun taking photos!There is also a nice restaurant and cafe if you need food or a pick-me up. And there's plenty of seating in the cafe, but also outside. The grounds of the museum are also worth visiting on their own. There were plenty of people lounging in the grass, working on their laptops in the shade, etc... It looks like the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Richmond.

Sohna K — Google review

What a place. Absolutely incredible collection of art and the galleries are beautiful. You can spend an entire day taking it all in. They have a parking deck for a fee, but I was able to find on street parking. The museum itself is free. Can’t recommend it enough, very cool place

Brennan — Google review

The VMFA is very nice museum , it takes about 3 hours to just look around. Found several my favorite artists artwork. They are amazing! The food there was also great!

HF C — Google review

Great place to come for some art! Beautiful old building to walk around in and explore all the wings with different types of art. Plus they usually have a special exhibit going on which is always worth checking out. Nice little cafe with some good coffee, various drinks and snacks to eat. The outside patio, garden and fountains on the grounds are great to sit around and relax in. They have a jazz night and various events that bring in the crowds which is a good time if you are looking for something to do. And as you can see from the pictures sometimes you can catch a majestic sunset here.

TheLeakingGenius — Google review

Highly recommend this art museum. To start off, it’s FREE, all I had to pay for was parking which was $5. Definitely worth it. They have such a wide variety of different types of art from all over the world and different time periods. My favorite piece of art was the Fabergé eggs. Really cool to see the different jewels they used to make them.

Mike T — Google review

I love the VMFA. With over 500,000 square feet of exhibition space on a thirteen acre campus, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has so much to offer. Whether your interest is ancient Egyptian art, Cubist paintings or Russian jewelry, this museum has something for everyone.There’s a cafe on the main level with outdoor seating that looks out over a reflection pond and the beautifully landscaped sculpture garden.The museum gift shop is large and full of all sorts of great artsy things.This is easily one of the best museums in the country. And it’s free!There is a parking garage, which does have a fee, but it’s possible to find free on street parking, as long as you don’t mind walking a block or two.I highly recommend a visit to this museum.

Haptown R — Google review

VMA is truly a gem of a museum. It has a top notch diverse collection that is wonderfully spaced out. You can leisurely view all the galleries without feeling overwhelmed or over saturated. The grounds and the outdoor sculptures are equally impressive. This is a must-see if you’re in Richmond.

Augusto P — Google review

Beautiful collection with so many unique highlights - the furniture, Fabergé eggs, Tiffany lamps, just to name a few. The sculpture gardens out back are the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or read a book. And admission is free (some special exhibits are ticketed)!

Nora W — Google review

I am giving one star with a heavy heart. I was visiting family and we were all so excited to come visit the museum. Upon arriving we saw beautiful pieces of work. It was going great. About 10 minutes into our visit we were approached by a museum employee who told us to put our diaper bag on facing forward, they explained it was to keep the works safe from being knocked over. That made sense and we obliged. No problem. However, it would have been helpful if we would’ve been greeted at the front and given that information. But no harm. We carried on (diaper bag facing forward) through the galleries. We entered a long hallway area with paintings hung on either side. My niece (who is 1) was wriggling in my brothers arms. Since we were in a space with nothing that could be knocked over - He set her down and off she went, keep in mind she’s 1…so her run is the equivalent of a quick walk. We were on one side of the gallery and from the other side of the hall we heard booming yelling. It was so loud that it echoed and it was hard to hear what was being shouted. My sister in law took a few steps forward and a man appeared, she said to him “I’m sorry, what was that?”. Again, he yelled “NO RUNNING IN THE GALLERY”. We were too stunned to speak - he was so clearly absolutely furious. My brother scooped up my niece - at this point we were terrified to make another wrong move. It was SO deflating. We left shortly after this encounter because we felt totally unwelcome. I’m not arguing that the gallery should be treated like a race track - what I do think is that there was a more kind way to communicate with us. There were some amazing pieces but the staff at the Museum was incredibly rude and we left very disappointed. I have a fine arts degree, I’ve worked and shown work in galleries. I understand there’s certain etiquette - but I also understand how to communicate with kindness and grace. I hope that the staff, and specifically that employee learn and do better.

Sydney R — Google review

We went for it first visit and were excited to see works from Matisse, John Singer Sargent. It was wheelchair friendly, high quality art work from a high caliber art museum. It highlighted different artists from the Cubist, Impressionist and The Gilded Age. We will be back, we couldn't complete the museum in one visit. The visit is free, so don't worry about buying tickets. There is a cafe and coat check.

Kerry-Ann P — Google review

First time visit we had a great time so much to see we're going to have to go back a couple more times for sure. There was art from all up and down the timeline and all over the world I found it very fascinating My teenagers also enjoyed it and that says a lot.

Willy — Google review

So much more exciting than I expected! Lots of exhibits, many of which we didn’t get to. Free admission besides the specialty display downstairs. Fine art displays feature world renowned artists and their works. There’s a wide array of sculptures, artifacts, and paintings.

Maryam S — Google review

My favorite sections were the India artifacts and information and the Russian artifacts (the eggs!!) What an awesome museum. Fantastic art pieces throughout as well... I would definitely go back!Only downside was that I felt American and French items were just paintings (tons of horses and abstract) or furniture while other cultures/countries had amazing artifacts, jewelry and paintings.

Latisha M — Google review

Beautiful, stunning, charming, peaceful, relaxing are just a few of the words that come to mind. Great for the family, great for dates, great just to get away. Kid friendly, wheelchair accessible, clean, well kept. If you are in the area go visit. Did I mention that it is free.

Johnny M — Google review

The VMFA had incredible collections from a variety of artists, periods and movements. Typically I have gone on week days and have never seen it very crowded at all. The museum itself is very beautiful and I would recommend taking some time to spend in the outdoor sculpture garden. Many amazing things to see.

Kalin D — Google review

The Faberge collection here was phenomenal! I have visited the Armoury Museum in Moscow which contains some Faberge objects which belong to the Russian Government as well as the Faberge Museum in St. Petersburg, and I can easily say this was the best collection of Faberge I have ever seen. Not only did they have 5 of the famous Faberge Easter eggs, they had numerous large pieces of Faberge silver as well as many hard stone pieces including numerous carved animals and flowers. All were beautifully displayed and lit and easy to view in uncrowded spaces. They also had a beautiful Impressionist painting collection. And all for FREE! Highly recommend!

Ann T — Google review

This was our first time visiting the museum. My daughter loved that some of it was interactive. She took time to sketch her favorite piece. We found street parking and didn't enter through the main entrance. They don't allow you to wear backpacks on your back you have to hang it off the shoulder or wear it the front way.

ARLENE P — Google review

Excellent place to spend quality time with family or significant others. There’s always a cultural event or exposition going on. On weekends they have an event called “Family Day” where you can bring kids to do paintings and other activities. They even give them a “passport” where you can have a stamp for each activity that they completed. And the best part: it’s free, you don’t have to pay. It worth a visit!

Gislane A — Google review

I’m such a fan of the VMFA. I have a fond memory of seeing an impressionist exhibit as a high school student here, and it was the first time I realized I enjoyed art. I’m always impressed with the exhibits they manage to secure, and I never leave feeling disappointed. I would recommend getting the membership - it’s just not that expensive and if you see a few exhibits and use their parking garage, the membership easily pays for itself. I went to see an exhibit there last year and was lucky enough to stumble across a fashion show! Loved the energy and the artistry. Check their upcoming events - I feel like they’re always adding something new to the calendar.I wish I had more photos to add…I need to dig some up! It’s a beautiful building and they transform the space to enhance each exhibit.

Sally H — Google review

1st time there with my son's school. It was very interesting. Only took a few pictures as we were busy looking at so much. Definitely going back to see the samurai exhibit!

Sherita M — Google review

What a beautiful experience!!! The art exhibits were well placed and easy to navigate. The museum environment in was well balanced, not crowded in any areas. I even had lunch in the Cafe. I've never had a bad meal in this place. The food is always so exquisite, fresh, and innovative. The staff was friendly & very attentive to my needs and they really go above and beyond to ensure you enjoyed your meal. I can't wait to go back.

Hope D — Google review

4.8

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5.0

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200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220, USA

(804) 340-1400

17

Monticello

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Located just outside Charlottesville, Virginia, in the Piedmont region, Monticello was originally a 5,000 acre plantation built by Thomas Jefferson. The estate is now open to the public and features tours of the mansion and slave quarters as well as a museum and cafe.

Awesome Experience & Tour of Monticello! Highly recommend taking the guided tour. Monticello is filled with much history, inventions, interesting architecture and gorgeous gardens of President Thomas Jefferson's. Over the years, I have gone on the guided tour three times and I always learn something new. My favorite are all the inventions of Thomas Jefferson. I also love walking though the amazing vegetable gardens and flower gardens. Highly recommend if you are in the area! Wonderful history!

Beverly A — Google review

My wife is a history major and had Monticello on her bucket list, so I decided to take her on a special vacation to visit this historical landmark. What a special day we had despite the rain. The facility was very well organized, had a great gift shop and is well maintained. We decided to take the self-guided tour so we could take our time and really take everything in. My wife was in heaven walking room to room and observing all the historical artifacts in the home of our third president, Thomas Jefferson. The home had paintings, Indian relics, antique furniture, books, a poignant scene of children's toys, and unique technical devices from the 1700-1800s. The grounds were amazing and full of beautiful plants, trees and vegetable gardens. Many areas had QR codes that allowed you to pull up a web site on a cell phone, providing written descriptions and audio recordings. There was a great little snack shop on the grounds that offered unusual soft drinks, candy, ice cream and other wonderful treats. We spent over 2 hours taking it all in and enjoying the breath taking scenic views of the mountains and rolling hills. A truly memorable day learning about the history of the home of our third president of the United States of America.

Torch R — Google review

We had the most excellent guide, Ashley, for the Slavery to Freedom tour. She told the story and asked thoughtful questions that drew her audience into the period. She all of the questions that were thrown at her. She was not judgemental. The museum itself was great at giving us a visual of the man Thomas Jefferson and his plantation. This is an experience that we highly recommend for everyone. The main gift shop had a wealth of additional information. The price for the tour is reasonable given that we had the freedom to see other things.All of the staff were very nice. I loved the convenience of the air conditioned shuttle. We didn't take pictures of the house this time. The architecture is amazing. Thanks to the foundation for preserving this history. Good job.

Jackie L — Google review

Just incredible! Please take the time to drive here and take the tour. The guided tour was so informative with background on different events.Must see for our children to get a better understanding of our founding fathers and the life they lived.Loved seeing the replica Declaration of Independence, less than 50 still known to be in existence.Lots of walking paths and beautiful views.

Tim C — Google review

A great historical site, highly recommended to anyone who is interested in history, architecture, or agriculture. The house is truly grand and beautiful. I loved hearing the history of the color choices throughout the home, and the many other little stories that help us see Jefferson as a human being and not just a historical figure.

Dena C — Google review

We had a great visit to Monticello. They have done a great job of preserving and restoring a very important part of history. The tour guides are extremely informative. They have an actor who speaks as Thomas Jefferson. He is amazing, he even takes questions.Monticello is beautiful and so educational. I highly recommend a visit!

Jason S — Google review

We took the Wednesday 11.00 "Behind the scenes" tour. Our guide was fantastic. It was a fact filled and interesting narrative delivered with ease, and he fielded all of the questions that were asked effortlessly. Staff at the ticketing office were also really helpful. The building is interesting albeit a bit strange and the grounds are magnificent.

Robert T — Google review

This is an outstanding property and we were really happy we came up for the day. Thomas Jefferson was quite the architect (along with all his other accomplishments) and this house/grounds has a lot of innovations that you will not see in other houses of that period. Highly recommend the behind the scenes tour and get there early as you can easily spend all day there.

Rick A — Google review

One of the most well done tours I’ve ever been to.Amazing experience from the drive in to the tour. We purchased the Behind the Scenes Tour that takes you into the house and the rotunda—it’s worth the investment! You get to walk through history. We saw the actual books Jefferson owned, his bed, his personal tools, and so much more. The tour guides are insightful, thoughtful, and kind. Getting to walk through history has no substitute! Highly recommend for anyone visiting Charlottesville!

N — Google review

I had one $#@& tour guide send me to the wrong place to wait for our tour, which then started 15 minutes early. Then openly mocked me for bringing me children (6, 9, 11) on the tour. In front of an entire tour group. Despite this guy...this place is fantastic. The gardens, the views, the architecture museum. We spent 4hrs here learning and being awed by the significance and history of it all. My wife and I could have easily spent more time there, but kids.We did the cheapest tour, which is only the ground floor. If it was just the two of us we'd have done the full thing to see the dome. I highly recommend getting there early and doing the architectural museum at the bottom of the hill before going up. Spend a good 45 minutes doing all the reading and learning of what Jefferson did before going to lay eyes on the building.

Jason C — Google review

Spectacular. Monticello is as much a place of learning as it is an architectural feat. I have been over ten times at this point and learn or see something totally new each time. Take an unguided tour if you’re on a repeat visit and linger awhile in the well-appointed rooms. Don’t miss out on the museum next to the bus stop, and by all means go to the store!

Claire-Marie B — Google review

An amazing historical site! There is lots of history surrounding this estate to learn and explore. The tour was a great experience. The views of the surrounding area were beautiful and very calming.I highly recommend visiting!

Thomas R — Google review

Did the 45-min guided tour; very organized. Definitely worth it. Unfortunately, we had only 2.5 hrs to spare, so not enough time. Recommend at least 3 hrs if you want to soak in the history.Awesome place for history buff. A lot of great history, somber ones too. The guide provided great info about the mansion as well as Jefferson's history, good and bad. The guided tour about slavery at Monticello was a somber one, but a must do. We also attended the "Meet Thomas Jefferson." The gentleman who portrayed Jefferson did an excellent job.The grounds and gardens were immaculate. The trees are beautiful and saved us from the scorching 90° sun. The views were spectacular.

Amie K — Google review

I loved the history tours that you could do. The house itself was amazing! I do recommend going to the tours, which are very fun and educational. They have several tours at different times you can go to throughout the day. Also, get tickets in advance. It really puts you in Jefferson's shoes being there.

Abigail F — Google review

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation has done a phenomenal job with the aesthetics of the property and restoring the dependencies for their visitors. What I don’t like about visiting here is how commercialized it feels, especially compared to the other historic home tours in Virginia. You pay $42 for the highlights tour, with tours running every five minutes. That means you only have five minutes in each room to hear the guides presentation, look around, and ask questions. Our tour had so many people that we couldn’t see most of the rooms because we were packed in like sardines. We were then shuffled very quickly to the next room. When I asked the ticket counter about other options we were recommended the Behind the Scenes tours or private tours. Private tours start at $750 for four people. I love Virginia history and again, the property was beautiful, I just wish the tour hadn’t felt so crowded and rushed.

Megan L — Google review

Dogs are allowed on the grounds!We enjoyed our Highlights tour at Monticello, although I wish they gave more information about the house and Jefferson's inventions, special home details, and his amazing contributions to American history .. I had watched a documentary about the house and honestly I learned more watching the documentary than the tour guide: The guide was obsessed with his relationships thus we left the tour early because we couldn't listen to Hannah's commentary; maybe there's a guide who is more involved in the details of the house and Jefferson's accomplishments than Hannah? ... Anyway, it's a beautiful home, gardens are enjoyable.

Jen B — Google review

We did the Highlights tour. Very informative. Our guide, Katrina, led a well-paced tour. We enjoyed walking the beautiful grounds of Monticello on our own. Not great for little kids as there’s nothing for them to do. If they have any knowledge of US History, it’s worth it.

Brian Q — Google review

Highly recommended - to include booking your house tour in advance if possible, to reserve the slot that you want.We found the 'behind the scenes' house tour to be worth the additional money, to include a smaller group and a lot more time in the house. This tour requires you to ascend and descend a pretty steep and narrow staircase.Free public WiFi by the lower visitor center and the upper house itself. Water refill stations also available by the water fountains.If you want to do the house tour plus the garden and slavery guided tours, it may be advantageous to pack or plan to eat at the onsite cafe.The slavery tour was very informative - the stories about the persons that lived here were moving.

Ryan S — Google review

It was a great tour. Our guide Don was amazing. Every encounter with the workers was nice except for the lady driving the shuttle and the lady checking tickets to get on the bus.It’s a must see when you are in Charlottesville. The house had incredible views to the blue ridge mountains and nearby fields. I recommend a guided tour because they share interesting stories of the family and items in the house.

Leyla N — Google review

We had an awesome visit to Monticello. Our docent Brianna was great! I remember going as a kid. We had the grounds and home tour tickets but there is also an upgrade to visit the top floor and dome room. Plan to spend 3-4 hours for your visit. They have a couple of places to catch a bit to eat. We had a great time!

Macky K — Google review

Did not realize Monticello had so much to see on the tour. You see history come to life with Jefferson’s speech. There is still much to see if you do not take the house tour. One special feature that helped my daughter get around better, was there free wheelchair access. Be prepared to spend a few hours and wear comfortable shoes.

Cassandra D — Google review

Helpful to plan out your day before visiting.Monticello was the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson, a Founding Father and the third president of the United States. He began designing Monticello after inheriting land from his father at age 14.The house was built in stages over a period of 40 years, and it is a blend of neoclassical, Palladian, and Jeffersonian architectural styles.Monticello is known for its octagonal dome, which was the first of its kind in the United States.The house is also home to a number of innovative features, such as a dumbwaiter, a central heating system, and a water closet.Monticello was not just a residence, but also a working plantation. Jefferson owned over 130 slaves, who worked the land, tended the gardens, and cared for the house.After Jefferson's death, Monticello was passed down to his daughter, Martha Jefferson Randolph. She sold the property in 1831, and it changed hands several times before being purchased by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation in 1923.The Thomas Jefferson Foundation has restored Monticello to its original condition, and it is now a popular tourist destination.Here are some other cool facts about Monticello:The house is made of red brick, which was brought from England.The gardens at Monticello are home to over 6,000 different plants.Jefferson designed his own furniture for Monticello, and he also made many of the tools used to build the house.Monticello was the first home in the United States to have electricity.The house is still equipped with its original dumbwaiter, central heating system, and water closet.I hope you find these facts about Monticello interesting!

Taylor B — Google review

Such a marvelous piece of our history warts and all. By now everyone knows Jefferson owned slaves and fathered children with one of his house keepers/nannies. He was a very complex man and very intelligent. I could go on for several pages about him and his estate. The tour was excellent and the gentleman who is on the site who portrays Jefferson was excellent. I wish there was someone like that at Mt. Vernon to portray Washington. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about my experience here. Our tour guide was excellent. She was personable and very knowledgeable. You can tour all of the grounds, the mansion and basem*nt which was very informative and interesting. There are slave quarters and shops so you get a real feel for what it was back then. The large Jefferson burial area was also interesting to view. A very peaceful serene setting not too far from the mansion.There is a great visitor’s center and museum and I highly recommend seeing both along with a short film before you take the shuttle up to the mansion. I learned how intelligent, inquisitive and inventive Jefferson was. I highly recommend reading a biography of Jefferson before you visit. It will bring the entire experience to life.

Jack S — Google review

It's worth the cost to get in. Went in the fall, and there were still plenty of tours and things to see. Our tour guide was amazing, well versed, and knowledgeable on everything from the building of the home to the darker history of Jefferson's story. He made Jefferson out as human and a product of his time and not a hero and mythical being.I am glad to know that although there are a few original pieces, the museum uses replicas as well.Visit the exhibits near the visitor center where you park for a look at how the house was built, Jefferson's life, and the family trees of his decedents, including Sally Hemmings children.Parking was easy, and the shuttle service made the trip easier for our party.

Colleen K — Google review

Monticello is a wonderful plantation to visit, especially so when the weather is cooperative. The grounds are incredibly well taken care of and you can learn a bit of what life was like by walking around and exploring the various buildings. I love that the gardens are maintained and that the food isn't wasted from them.I highly recommend doing the guided house tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable of Jefferson's life and Monticello through it's years. There are various other tours you can do, but unfortunately I only had time for the one. There's a lot to learn here outside of what you learn in a grade school history class.If you have any interest in history, and are around Charlottesville, I suggest making a stop here!

Sara O — Google review

First time I have been when there were guided tours. Although the 45 minute tour was very informative, it requires the whole group to be in one room together with the doors closed so the other tour in the next room can not be heard. The rooms here are small and our group was too big to fit comfortably in the rooms. There is a strick no touching or leaning on anything at all policy which made the tight quarters feel even tighter. Tour sizes need to be smaller or maybe our day was just really busy, but I liked it better when we could do self guided tours. I would not recommend this tour for small children. The rooms are just too small with too much stuff.But for history and architecture nerds, it is an amazing and interesting home. Don't miss the museum, it has some great displays that show how he modified and expanded the house over the years. And they have a model of his final renovation that was never completed.

Beth M — Google review

So so pretty and such a gorgeous property. I never knew how much history really was underneath this property until this week and I’m so very glad I got to visit and have the opportunity to become educated. Our tour guide was amazing and the tickets were very well worth it, there are many attractions (that do cost) to walk through which is super cool.

L N — Google review

Monticello offers a step back in time to learn about the history of one of the forefathers of this country. The tour of the home is pleasant and the tour guides are knowledgeable. There are also multiple other tours of the grounds that provide a great historical perspective of the land and of Jefferson. There is even a Thomas Jefferson character that is found on certain days and times. If you get the chance, stop by to see him. He plays the role with great accuracy and the interaction with him is very memorable.

Clint H — Google review

I just finished reading the 1 star comments. Most of them are about the pricey tickets. 😱😱The guided tour ticket is $42, and the ground tour ticket is $22.I bought the guided tour ticket today, 01/20/2024. It was a 45 minutes with one tour guide, his name is Jim. He is a wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide. 👍👍👍Is it worth it to pay $42 dollars and see the third president's house? Well, if you think 45 minutes is too short, you can spend more time exploring the wine cellar, kitchen, and the garden.I would suggest do some homework before you go. It is because the tour guide was a little bit fast taking before you can even understand the whole story.😅😅😅😅However, I do have one feedback which I promised the staff I would write to the owner.It is 26 degrees today with 19 miles per hour wind speed. All of the staffs who worked outdoors today were all shivering 🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶.Is it possible to provide the outdoor propane heater for their health issue concern? ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Project E — Google review

Gorgeous views from atop the mountain in all directions. Interesting and well-presented history, giving insight to Jefferson and the lives of those that lived at Monticello, including the enslaved people. The house and ground are remarkable, and the tours are very well done.

Kent 1 — Google review

This was well worth seeing. I did the highlights tour and felt for me, that was plenty. However there is a longer more in-depth tour that also would have been interesting.. Our guide Rogan was spectacular! He explained the history well and encouraged questions. I particularly liked how he addressed the difficult subject of slavery and Thomas Jefferson’s involvement. After the house tour there is an option to tour the slave quarters. Yet again, I was impressed how our guide Louie handled the delicate subject and encouraged thought.The entire staff from check in to the guides did a tremendous job!Thank you!

Jeff P — Google review

An excellent place to visit. The tours are very professionally executed. The grounds and buildings are fabulous. The tour guides are very well informed and learned in history and engage you during your tour.

Mark K — Google review

Beautiful and historic grounds and you get very good views of the Virginian countryside. The tickets are pretty expensive for adults, however. The grounds are not as big as one would expect but pretty nice nevertheless. I would recommend to visit here if you are in Charlottesville because there is not much else to do

E M — Google review

Amazing place to spend a few hours! They do have a shuttle to carry everyone from the house to the burial site and back. You can always walk if you choose to.

Victoria — Google review

4.7

(9413)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (146)

4.5

(7235)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (147)

1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA

(434) 984-9800

18

Battleship North Carolina

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History museum

Museums

The USS Battleship North Carolina is a decommissioned military vessel turned museum that is well-known for its location on the Wilmington waterfront. The museum houses exhibits which detail the battleships impressive service during World War II.

One of a kind ship with a great tour route. I've been to several ship museums and this was outstanding. Very well maintained. The upper decks were closed because the mast was being restored but even so the tour route allowed you to wander all through the ship and each compartment was very well displayed. What is cool is that the ship remains primarily in WW2 configuration, and the (I think) Measure 33 camouflage is awesome. I was lucky and got a ticket to view the Azalea festival fireworks from the deck- closest thing to watching a shore bombardment you could get I suppose. Job Well Done to those that served and continue to serve on the ship.

CSL — Google review

Great piece of history to tour and see what the greatest generation was apart of. You are able to take tours or go and your own pace. You can feel how cramped a battleship that size is that would hold 2000 people. This is great for young and old to enjoy an hour or more of seeing something amazing in an amazing era of industrial age.

Steven P — Google review

The Battleship is great for kids & adults to see how our military lived & still do also there are probably some updates to the battleships now. This ship is huge! We visited on a Friday at 4pm (hour before closing) in June 2023, so it wasn't crowded, which was good. It was $14 for adult, I think around $8 for a child. Although a good experience, I'd prefer not to take another tour through it! 🤣Stairways are tight, some curvy, & I not temptress controlled so in the summer >t was freaking hot down there!. Plenty of signs & arrows to te you which way to go but still can get confusing. Takes at least an hour (or close) to get through it. After about 15 min I was looking for the exit. It's a workout! However, so fascinating to see the living quarters, the newspaper/ mail area, kitchen & how food was stored, laundry room, etc. Amazing to see how soldiers lived in such a confined space for months/years at a time & didn't kill each other.At the end there is a gift shop (of course over-priced but most are). There's a small sitting area with vending machines. After being in that heat, you'll definitely need a something to drink.Great piece of history to learn about & tell/show or kids & generations to come. It's Def something I think everyone should experience at least one time!

Mia — Google review

What an awesome experience. My hubby and I were on our way to the Outer Banks and decided to make this a stop. My hubby served in the Marines and was excited to visit. The ships deck was handicap/wheelchair accessible. The rest of the ship is not. I am claustrophobic, so I was only selected to make it as far as the galley. My husband enjoyed the entire experience and explored the entire ship. He said it was fantastic, and he enjoyed the heck out of being able to do so. He highly recommends a visit if you love ships!

Carla P — Google review

A beautiful piece of history. There was no wait to enter even though it was a Saturday morning. The tour guides and volunteers are very knowledgeable about the history of the ship and love to answer any questions. Most areas of the ship are open to the public, there are a few tours you can join for access to areas not open for the general public, check online. It is wheelchair accessible in a few areas but the majority of the tour requires climbing up and down narrow stairs. The wooden walk around the ship is very nice and allows for great pictures. The gift shop is nice and has some refreshments, there are also some drink vending machines in various areas on the decks.

Ellen C — Google review

We have visited here 3 times now and loved it every time! It is the most accessible battleship I've ever been on (in terms of what they open up to the public). There is so much to see and so many photo opportunities. You definitely want to schedule several hours. I went with my three kids (ages 7, 5 & 2) who never let me stop to read any of the information and we still spent 2 1/2 hours walking the decks and checking out below deck.

Kerri — Google review

One of the last few classes of battleships, it's in good shape and quite a lot is open for the public to see and get to enjoy the history. Recommend walking shoes and would not call it very stroller friendly. Places you could hit your head are well marked and protected but you are walking and climbing through some step stair and ladder areas.

Stephen — Google review

Beautiful historic place. Paying for a deck pass helps support the ship as it is self supporting and I thought that was amazing. Also when you get on the deck you can go up 4 levels into the captains den (picture of the bow) and down a level into the sleeping area. So much to explore and overall a great experience.

A — Google review

I cannot decide if this is the most massive ship I've ever been on or if the incredible access to everything just makes it seem so. So many decks to explore and I love the way that there is a balance between the military operations and everyday life of the ship. The memories and quotes from the servicemen really bring to life what it was like to live and work on this vessel. We spent 3 hours touring Deck After Deck. Incredible!

R H — Google review

If you’re in the area and can manage to go up and down steep stairs, this is a must visit!This is the second Museum Battleship I’ve visited, the first being the USS Missouri and I enjoyed my visit here more than the Mighty Mo. There are less tourists on the North Carolina so it’s easier to explore the tight corridors and the ship appears to be cleaner.If we’re in the area again, we’ll definitely come by for another tour.

Y L — Google review

Since my two daughters joined the Navy in 2022- visiting restored battleships is our “thing”.This is the second ship we have visited- and some distinct differences from the USS Alabama. First of all- you could go up into the 16 inch gun turret- all the way- you could sit in the chair and see the control panels, where they loaded the shells, the optical sights, all very cool!Another cool thing was the first person narratives that were in all the different locations- mess hall- laundry- medical offices (the barking dog one was hilarious!)These narratives made the areas and situations so lifelike- I could actually imagine these people telling the story!The ship had been beautifully restored- and it was enjoyable to walk around and learn about its history!

Stephanie B — Google review

This was way cooler than we expected. My two boys (aged 6 and 10) loved climbing ladders to get to a different level, and I was impressed by how much they learned on our self-guided tour. I enjoyed learning about the daily life aboard the battleship, especially the post office and the radio room. This excursion is not for the faint of heart however. The ladder steps are very steep and challenging. The spaces are small and there is no air conditioning, ( I was very appreciative of the electric fans that were stationed throughout the facility.) If you're planning to visit here, definitely go on the Riverwalk first because when you see it first from afar, you truly appreciate the actual magnitude of the ship when you step foot on it. I would definitely recommend visiting the Battleship North Carolina, if you're a history buff. It is well worth the price of admission

Jodi P — Google review

Amazing place. Being able to walk through almost all the most important parts of the battleship is really something. The kids had a blast, but there are some very steep sets of stairs and ladders, so I can see how younger kids (e.g. 3 and under) would not be able to do this alone, and it's so narrow that even parents would have a tough time going up/down the ladders/stairs carrying a toddler/baby. All is well kept and gives you a chilling sensation when you put yourself in all those sailors shoes, imagining what the ship would have looked like at its peak.

Omar L — Google review

Being a competitive World of Warships player, it's on my bucket list to visit every surviving battleship in my lifetime. USS NC does not disappoint. She was the first "modern" battleship built for the USN and featured multiple cutting edge shipbuilding technologies in her construction. She is in a remarkable state of preservation. The parking lot is sufficiently large, however it is prone to flooding, so make sure to wear shoes that won't soak through if you don't want wet feet. Getting to see an iconic piece of American WW2 naval history for a small $14 admission is a steal in my book.

Donald S — Google review

My granddaughter has been wanting to visit the battleship for a long time so today was the day. It has been about 10 years since my last visit. She loved it. We followed the signs for the self tour. So much more has opened up since my last visit. There were many volunteers in period uniforms throughout the ship. They answered questions and told stories of ship life as it was back in the 1940's. One Chief even typed a liberty chit for my granddaughter after explaining to her all about what liberty was and how sailors got to go on liberty.

Kevin G — Google review

Such a cool experience!I was visiting a friend in Wilmington and he suggested that all of us check out this battleship.Approaching the exit from the north was a little weird- it's easy to miss. From the south, it's easy to find the exit. There was plenty of parking even for a Saturday. No wait to get our tickets and begin our tour.Lots of interesting things to see here. From the long guns, to seeing how the bullets were loaded, how the crew sat in their stations, to where everyone ate and slept - all of it was fascinating!My favorite parts were climbing into the revolving canon chamber, and seeing the medical stations.There was someone in the Captain's bridge explaining some of the history of the ship. Me and my kiddos had a ton of fun here!

Jits08 — Google review

We visited from out of town and decided to spend our free Saturday here. We are strong supporters of our military and fascinated by military and especially WWII history. The battleship didn't disappoint. Parts of it were under construction and closed to the public but we still had over 3 hours of walking in all parts of the ship. Many signs, stories and lots of helpful information to help you see, feel and smell what life aboard the ship must have been like. The self guided tour was great. The museum building was new and clean and the staff were extremely knowledgeable and helpful too. I highly recommend for families.

Bryan T — Google review

This ship is massive and really really cool. To see all the history this ship has to offer is alot to take in. It is like a maze once inside, I actually got disoriented a few times. That's not a good feeling, so it goes to make me think of what the sailors must have felt until they got used to living on this ship for months at a time. One of the coolest aspects of this ship is that it's really like a miniature city inside. They had everything they would have needed to survive. This is a must-see if you've never been. The size of the guns are mind blowing. I'm sure you will enjoy it!

Brent T — Google review

It was a self guided tour that allowed us to go at our own pace. It did get hot while inside the ship, but there were a decent amount of fans through out. Definitely recommend to wear tennis shoes, the painted floors were a bit slippery in our sandals. The stairs are very narrow and steep.Over all a super cool experience. My 5 and 3 year old boys loved it and asked to go back again 😊

Tori B — Google review

I love military history. This is my second battleship that I ever visited and I was very impressed. This was a great museum that we could see just about any part of the ship. Staff was located all over the ship to give some valuable information. Be prepared to walk up and down some steps.

Blake — Google review

Really cool place to take the kids and learn some history. If you’re in Wilmington even just for vacation, this is a cool place to visit. So much to learn and think about while you climb in and out of all the compartments on the ship and read about how the service men spent their days. The guns are also very impressive, it’s a little surreal to sit in the seats and think about what transpired on ships like these during war times. Highly recommended!

Milo B — Google review

Visited the USS North Carolina near the downtown area of Willmington NC with my grandson and we had a great time. A beautiful well maintained ship with living history at every turn. A lot to see and take in. Directional signs throughout. Lots of climbing to the 9 different levels of the ship. Not recommended for small children and elderly people. Highly recommend a visit.

Michael D — Google review

Great self guided tour! Lots of history!Very reasonably priced.Lots of steep up and down steps, so if you have bad knees or legs, might want to skip.

Greg M — Google review

I was completely drawn in and enticed by the USS North Carolina battleship in Wilmington. Initially, I had no intention of taking the tour, but the sheer presence of this massive ship compelled me to explore it further. The admission price was completely reasonable, and knowing that all proceeds go toward the preservation of the ship made the experience even more worthwhile.Opting for the self-guided tour, I found myself immersed in the history and grandeur of the vessel for about two hours, though one could easily spend more or less time exploring. The unique experience provided a wealth of knowledge about the ship and its role in history. I would highly recommend this attraction to anyone with an interest in history or as a family outing. It was truly an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impression.

Kat C — Google review

This place is great. We spent 2.5 hours here but ran out of time because it was closing. We would have needed 3 hours to fully see everything, but we read all the signs.There's so many levels and so many things to look at. My favorite part was the mess hall, but all of it was really interesting. The diary entries on the sign were my favorite part, but my husband loved the history. They have decent parking, the bathrooms were clean.

Dani D — Google review

Visiting the Battleship North Carolina offered a unique and engaging experience, akin to stepping into a vivid time capsule that captures the essence of naval life. The tour allows visitors to delve deep into the intricacies of a battleship, presenting an educational journey through history that is both immersive and captivating. My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the various compartments and decks, which provided a comprehensive insight into the sailors' lives during wartime.However, one aspect that could enhance the realism and depth of the experience is the use of actual figurines instead of the current cardboard cutouts. While the cutouts serve their purpose, life-like figurines would add a more tangible and authentic feel to the tour, making it easier for visitors to connect with the history and stories of those who served on the ship. Recognizing the potential cost implications of such an upgrade, I believe that a slight increase in ticket prices would be a reasonable trade-off for the added value and enriched experience that real-life figurines could provide.Overall, the visit to Battleship North Carolina is a must-do for anyone interested in history, naval warfare, or looking for a unique educational outing. The blend of historical authenticity and educational content, coupled with the potential for further enhancements, makes it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Robert R — Google review

We had a great time going down all the way to the bottom of the available decks (some of the stairs are very steep and I would not recommend going too far down if you have bad knees or hips). I loved all the rooms; you really get to see how cramped it was! Truly remarkable how hard the men on the ships worked all the time!!

Amy ( — Google review

The ship is a fantastic museum - very informative. The staff and volunteers on the ship were amazing, very friendly and helpful, and appreciated..!Highly recommended while in Wilmington..!

Ryan S — Google review

This is a must-see exhibit to visit and spend time at. Be sure to bring your tennis shoes because you'll be climbing up and down metal ladders within tight spaces. This was well worth the trip and I highly recommend it for the whole family ... just keep track of your kids, there's a lot of compartments to hide in!

fishead61 — Google review

An amazing piece of history! We often don't appreciate the sacrifices these brave servicemen made (there were no women on board during WW2). This floating city serviced the needs of about 2300 people, but with little in the way of comfort or privacy (there was none!). Still, the complexity and efficiency of the ship are astounding, even more than 80 years after it went into service. It all makes you think twice before complaining about your morning coffee!I wish there were more tours and guides, because I'm sure we missed a lot!

Lou T — Google review

4.8

(9917)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (152)

4.5

(3616)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (153)

1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA

(910) 399-9100

19

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

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Aquarium

Nature & Parks

Ripleys Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers a unique experience for families by having them explore an aquatic habitat from the inside through an acrylic tunnel. The aquarium also has attractions such as Dangerous Reef, where visitors can get up close to fish and sea turtles. There is also the option to dive with sharks.

I took my family there and was not disappointed. A bit on the crowded side and a bit pricey, but definitely worth the money and time. My family really enjoyed themselves and the Penguin exhibit was by far the best and they were quite lively. The staff was very knowledgeable and you can tell the animals are well taken care of. Would recommend arriving early to avoid a large crowd, but there's plenty to see and do there. Definitely worth a visit...or multiple. Would definitely recommend.

Jared E — Google review

12/10 recommend!! To be honest, I didn't want to go. I wanted to go to the beach, but my husband and my 3y/o wanted to do the aquarium. I am SO glad we went!! It was amazing!! We were all blown away at the amount of different animals to see and interactive locations/tunnels. Well worth the money!! Would definitely visit again.

Holly S — Google review

Love going here every time I visit the beach! The addition of the sloths was perfect timing as I spent last summer studying in Costa Rica and was so excited to see my favorite animals again. Love that they are open late, which allows you to enjoy your day on the beach and then skip the busyness while enjoying the atmosphere around the aquarium.

Jessica V — Google review

My wife bought tickets before we arrived so we bypassed the super long line to buy tickets. I suggest buying tickets online to check in quicker. The place was very small compared to what I expected. There weren’t many exhibits and the place was packed. One thing that was really cool was the stingray exhibit where you could actually touch and pet the stingrays, or pay $5 to feed them. Probably best suited for younger kids. If you’re an adult and want to visit an aquarium more dedicated to fish with multiple exhibits this may not be your best choice.

Billy J — Google review

I love aquariums and I'm training in college to be a marine biologist so I always try to hit any kind of aquarium of any kind in the area.This happened to be one of the most interesting things that I've ever been to. I will recommend going here as a tourist destination. If you're not from South Carolina like me..There was no wait when I went at night time. And you can just go up to the kiosk and swipe your card yourself. If you would like, or you can go up to the ticket post and have someone print it out for you themselves if they aren't working or if you prefer that.They have everything from fresh water to saltwater fish as well as a lot of different enclosures of different types of animals, which was pretty cool to see as well.I definitely think that if you're reading this, you definitely should get a ticket and go see this aquarium.

Jennifer S — Google review

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is awesome. It’s a little pricey but it is very nice. We had some relatives come to town and we decided to take them to the Aquarium. We are glad that we did. Everyone had a great time. It’s one of the very best aquariums that we have ever been to. We highly recommend it.

Richard M — Google review

Mar 2024:Aquarium Experience Review:Looking for a fun family outing? Look no further than the aquarium! We had an amazing time exploring the wonders of aquatic life while soaking in fascinating facts and history. The interactive exhibits allowed us to touch jellyfish, feed stingrays, and even catch a glimpse of adorable sloths – a real treat for the kids!One small downside was the exit route through the gift shop, which inevitably led to some extra requests from the little ones. But hey, who can resist their excitement, right? On the bright side, they have a fantastic playground where you can unwind and let the kids burn off some energy.One of the highlights was definitely the see-through tunnel, where we felt like we were swimming right alongside the penguins! It was a magical experience that left us with unforgettable memories. Overall, the aquarium provided a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and family fun – a must-visit for anyone looking to create special moments with their loved ones. They also had military discounted tickets:)

Mich B — Google review

Really had a great afternoon. Beautiful tanks, well presented. The shark tunnel was really special. Rays, jellyfish, seahorses and so much more. Sea life fascinates me so this place was perfect. One of the nicest aquariums I've ever been to.

Larry H — Google review

This place is awesome, petting the rays, seeing the sharks and the turtle, watching the penguins play, and the new sloth area.Great experience.Definitely, if you have time, get tickets for the other attractions too. They are short but fun, illusion lab and haunted mansion.

Ran R — Google review

The place was nice. It would be nice to see more types of sea animals like shark types. Overall the staff were friendly, the prices however were extremely high for my taste and could be better, so you don't have to take out a loan just to buy a picture and water. The place was clean. From what i could tell, the animals seemed to be in good spirits also. It's not a place that I would go to daily because of the cost vs. what you get. Honestly, there weren't a lot of animals to view for the door cost. Overall, if you haven't been here, plan your family a day to experience the place for sure and see what you think. I'd plan ahead for food and drinks because buying here is going to cost you more than the tickets if you have a 4+ family.

Carl N — Google review

Me and my wife came here on our honeymoon and came back last week for our 15 year anniversary. New stuff has been added since then and it was an amazing experience again. We sat for about 2 hours just watching the penguins. The fish and other animals are beautiful and so much fun to watch. It’s truly an amazing experience. We really went back to see the sloths too. They were just lounging around in their tree lol. Can’t wait to go back again

Justin M — Google review

A MUST! Our baby loves fish tanks, so we thought an aquarium would be fun. This place was amazing for all ages! Our baby fell asleep in the shark tunnel, which was so cool. There were tons of sharks and fish. We could’ve watched them all day long.This place had so many awesome exhibits. We saw penguins, turtles, jellyfish, stingrays, sloths and so many fish*the stingray exhibit was awesome. Petting them was so much fun, and pushed my nephews out of their comfort zone. We all had a blast! The price seems steep but we would absolutely go back.

Alexis M — Google review

Pretty nice aquarium. It was better than I expected. Extensive species of fish and animal life. Parking was easy. It is small, but entertaining. If you have smaller kids, they essentially have a playground in the lower lobby. They had pretty tasty donuts made to order. We didn't try any other food. If you have a larger group, definitely try and get a discount on tickets. Staff is very friendly and helpful.

Ashish R — Google review

My granddaughter and I went on April 27, 2024. The aquarium is located on Broadway At The Beach. The location is very nice. The aquarium is truly a nice aquarium. There are shows you can book and it’s perfect for families. You get to interact with a few aquatic animals. Great way to educate yourself or a child about aquatic life. They also recently added a sloth exhibit. You can purchase tickets online, or at the aquarium. They have a traditional person check out for buying tickets, or you can use a self serve ticket purchase kiosk. Either way there was a line. If you’re impatient then my Suggestion is buy tickets online.

Sue M — Google review

Great experience! Lots of really cool exhibits and kid friendly interactive options. There is also a mermaid that you can purchase breakfast with a mermaid. There are concessions, and a gift shop with lots of cool items.

Mandy G — Google review

Been to a number of aquariums and this one isn't terribly big but there is a fair amount of stuff inside. They had some unique sea creatures, fun exhibits for kids such as the penguin area. There a crawl space to a glass bubble to get very close to the penguins. There was a cool submarine space with buttons & knobs for the kids to play with. There was a sting ray petting/feeding area that was cool. Best of all, the Shark Tunnel was very cool allowing you to see the underside of the sharks up close. Great experience to go along with a fair price.

Jay W — Google review

Such a cool place! Everything is very clean, and there’s so many cool things to look at. We loved the sharks. You can also pet stingrays, and go on a little “glass bottom boat tour”. We went on the weekend, it was super busy so you should consider getting tickets ahead of time from their website!

Kasey S — Google review

Second time visiting Ripley’s Museum, it never disappoints. Great family place, lots to see. I love how clean and organize it is. Very friendly staff. I would recommend to anyone visiting Myrtle Beach to visit this museum. (Check pics out)

SandraQ — Google review

We had a great time at Ripley's Aquarium. There is plenty of sea life to see. Not crowded on the day we went, which was great. Prices were reasonable, and you could purchase tickets online or in person. They take your photo upon entering and also have a great souvenir shop. Definitely will be returning if in the area again.

CHRISTINE B — Google review

I definitely recommend buying tickets online so you don’t have to wait in a long line. Entry was easy. We went during the not so busy season and it was packed! I couldn’t imagine going during the summer when the crowds are in town. All of the sites are really neat, especially the walk through tunnel with the sharks. It was smaller than expected so I don’t think it’s really worth $30 more like $20. The staff was very nice! We accidentally left my toddlers shoes in the play area and they let me enter to get them without hesitation. Bathrooms were also very clean. Plenty of parking. Navigating a stroller or wagon would be very difficult. All in all a nice thing to do on a rainy day or if you’re looking for something for younger children.

C T — Google review

Due to the weather today and already being at Broadway at the Beach, we decided to give the aquarium a try. The price is a bit steep at $39.99 per adult (less for children) but I also understand the amount of care and feeding that goes into these animals. We really enjoyed our visit here. Our two favorite places were the sharks and jellyfish! Truly amazing experience in both of those exhibits. Certainly not selling anything else short but we really enjoyed those two. I highly recommend this place if you are in the area.

Matt K — Google review

We went to the Ripley's aquarium for the second time in about a year. They offer a homeschool discount which is great and check in is a breeze never a wait. This time we went for our two older boys to do the Stingray Experience. We arrived before the experience to walk around the aquarium my younger boys loved the water table on the bottom level along with the touch pool with jellyfish and starfish. As always the penguins are adorable as ever!! My older boys got about 45 min with the stingrays. They got to feed, pet, look for stingray teeth in the pool, snorkel and learn cool faces and info about them. It was well worth the price and we will be back again to let our younger ones experience this too!

Melissa L — Google review

Great aquarium with some unique and interesting animals. The walk through tank area was amazing. To have the sharks and fish swimming over your head was a very cool perspective. The kids also loved the touch tanks, which included starfish, jelly fish and rays. The staff were all helpful and knowledgeable.We went during the week and crowds were very light but I could see this being a busy place on the weekend or in bad weather.There are two small areas with play structures when the kids need a minute which was also helpful. As expected the exit is through the gift shop with no visible way to bypass.

Ryan M — Google review

Great experience! I love aquariums and zoos in general and this one was one of the nicest I've been too! I especially loved how close you felt to the penguins and sharks. It was a great family environment! We didn't go during the "busy" season so there were no crowds or waiting. Definitely recommend especially to families!

Josh C — Google review

This place is great. We enjoyed it very much. The only reason I gave 3 stars is because the price for what you get is not worth it. 2 adults, one 17 year old, and one 10 year old total of 4 people was 157.00 just to get in to see what took us an hour to go through. We could have been through within 40 minutes. As I said it is a great place but it is not worth what they charge to get in for such a small amount of things to see and do not at all.

Sharon P — Google review

This was my second time here, loved it both times. Right now they have a couple of Sloths there and they were cute!!! I enjoy looking at all the dishes and other animals they have.

Patti W — Google review

I took my 10 and 11 year old kids to see the aquarium, and we were pleasantly surprised by the new sloth attraction! There were many new areas for us to explore and the interactive/play area was much bigger than I remembered. My daughter loved all the jellies, my son loved the pirate treasure room, and my husband very much loved the sloths! My favorite always is seeing the sharks and seeing the rays up close. We spent about 2 hours taking our time going through every area, some more than once. We went on a Friday and even though a school holiday for us, there were not many people there so it was wonderful not to worry about so many people. We had a blast and my kids are already asking when we will be returning! :)

Leslie M — Google review

Solid 4 stars. I would even give it 4.2 if I could.Pro:- location- diversity of exhibitions- variety of fish and activities- shark tunnel- parkingCon:- super expensive- everything was very much on top of each other, no real flow. Not a bad con just confusing. We kept asking ourselves "this way?" "Is that it?" "Are we done?"- people. They let people in regardless of how full it is!Overall we had a amazing experience and we were able to navigate fairly well enough, the shark tunnel was the best!

Brian A — Google review

Spent the day there, amazing exhibits. The sloths are so cute, only saw them snoozing, though. Did the boat on the shark tank it was very informative and fed the stingrays. The kids loved it.

Laura O — Google review

This was an amazing trip!! We had so much fun, they offer mermaid breakfasts, boat rides over the shark tank and some amazing sloths! We found it to be extremely relaxing it was very wheelchair friendly. My boyfriend loved getting inside some of the exhibits in the tunnels they have where you can stand up or kneel and be immersed in a little bubble where the fish and penguins can swim around you while you sit inside the clear tunnels. We especially loved this with the penguins.

Elizabeth A — Google review

We had a nice time at the Aquarium on a Wednesday morning in February. There were even a couple of school buses that came in before us, but we still had the place pretty clear. An employee at the ray petting station said it is very busy in the summer. You can buy tickets online but if you want special discounts like for homeschooling, you need to buy in person. You can get a stamp on the way out for same day readmission. Enough to enjoy at least half of the day here.

Loretta F — Google review

SLOTHS!! Do I need to say more?? Ok, and a penguin parade!! Really cool place. If you have kids definitely a good place to get them out of the sun, but keep them entertained.

Melanie M — Google review

I bring my 2 yr old son here once a week and we have the best time ever. Buying the season pass is cheaper than coming twice. I highly recommend doing so, because it's worth more than one visit.

Daniel S — Google review

4.4

(19348)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (160)

4.0

(9239)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (161)

1110 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA

(843) 916-0888

20

Broadway at the Beach

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Shopping mall

Shopping

Broadway at the Beach is a sprawling outdoor entertainment center with restaurants, shopping, live shows & family attractions. This is one of the best places to find unique gifts and great places to eat in Myrtle Beach. There are also lots of fun activities to do like flying kites, finding shells, and playing in the water. The main attraction in Myrtle Beach is the beautiful white-sand beach along the oceanfront which stretches for 60 miles.

Great place to get lost for a whole day. Tons of shops parking is super easy to find. Vending machine so you can feed the fish. Lots of interactive activities you could ride the boats, you can go zip lining, Face paintings and spray on tattoos. Paddle boats and wonder works and lot or other bigger places to adventure. They also have the fair rides and Dave and busters.

N&N C — Google review

We walked around pretty much the entire complex, and it really seems to have it all! Something for everyone in your group, (with likely varied interests). Various popular eateries, and unique and delicious snacks and drinks for sale around every turn. Also plan on doing some shopping while you're there. SO MANY OFFERINGS! We had a great chat with one of the girls in the visitors center. Very pleasant and informative. But I'm sure you'll find your own list of reasons to be glad you visited!

Noreen M — Google review

My family really enjoyed this place. It just took us more then a few hours to do anything.The only reason I gave 3 stars is they have kids running this place and some seemed to not have a clue. Food and drinks were high but we expected that and ate elsewhere. At the time we went they had several large groups of kids, 5 bus loads, so lines to get to anything was really long. My children seemed to enjoy it though and that was the point.

Sherri H — Google review

Lot's of things to do for kid's of all ages. Everything you can imagine. Carnival rides, many different stores, restaurants and much more. If you are camera happy like me then there are many places to take pictures. We absolutely loved the thrilling boat ride.

Jessica M — Google review

Love, love, LOVE Broadway at the Beach! ❤️ This place has something for everyone. Outstanding restaurants with great cuisine. Fun activities for young and old. An enjoyable and safe environment to just walk and enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of Myrtle Beach. I definitely recommend.

Troy W — Google review

Very cool spot to walk around, check out some stores, feed the fish, visit an amusem*nt past, visit an aquarium and get some food.The stores were a mix of every day things and souvenirs but there seemed to be a store for everything. There were a lot of food options and multiple snack carts. Many of the food options did appear to rated low on maps however.You can pay to feed the fish which was a hit with the kids.The amusem*nt park looked awesome, though we didn’t go. The aquarium was excellent.Plenty of parking and easy terrain. The park for the kids was also a nice spot to stop for a little bit.

Ryan M — Google review

This place is absolutely amazing. The shop's are something I really enjoyed & some of them are pretty reasonable as far as prices goes. Some are expensive, but there's something here for everyone... Great place to take your family for a whole entire day or couple of days depending on how much you want to see & do. There's also a amusem*nt part with lots of rides to go on. I haven't been to that part as of yet but looks like a lot of fun. Wahlburgers was the highlight of my day. Yes I'm a HUGE NKOTB FAN & Blue Bloods fan so I had to check it out. Look for my review for the restaurant if you want to know more! Broadway at the Beach is a place to go. Has something for everyone.

Ann K — Google review

We really enjoyed a day here! So many things to do and can just get lost in the day walking around. I really liked the layout of the entire place, easily accessible from anywhere you walk to. I would definitely recommend putting a day aside to spend here if in the area.

Captain J — Google review

Another Bucket List Experiencein Myrtle Beach. Great location.Many fun things to see and explore. Free parking .Don't miss an opportunity tofeed the cat fish. You mustpurchase the fish food provided.There is an of abundance cat fish to see.There is a nice play area for theKids to enjoy. And don't forgetdinning, shopping opportunities. My main reasonfor an outing here was a visitto the " Paula Dean's Family Rest. " Also everything mentioned above.

Lady W — Google review

Loved the area here! Fun and cute to roam around! Lots of Little Shops to look around in and tons of restaurants to choose from! Good location too in Myrtle Beach. You can visit the aquarium from here or even catch a show!

Candice A — Google review

Plentiful dining, shopping, and activity options for all ages. Visited on a beautiful Saturday night in November. Not overly crowded. I walked the entire area and found it clean, safe, and well kept up.

Stephen B — Google review

Very pretty area to walk around. Many fun stops and tasting places for wine, liquor and food. If you go on a Sunday and do the Kentucky Distillery you can't buy bottles as they can't sell on Sundays in SC. There's also different kinds of boat rides to take.

Christal D — Google review

A great place to spend the whole day just shopping and browsing and dining!They're also plenty of big name attractions to entertain you such as a mirror maze, a little amusem*nt park, Wonder Works, and The Simpsons 4D ride, among others!

beastlycharizard13 — Google review

Great place to spend the day for shopping, restaurants, entertainment, small amusem*nt park and enjoying the outdoor environment. The area was not crowded at all for the winter day we were there. You can tell the area was being upgraded (shown in some of the pictures) and was seasonal. Restaurant and entertainment hours had been adjusted for the winter season. Definitely can understand with the smaller crowds that it would not be necessary to run long hours. Still was a very enjoyable time for our day outing.The areas that we're being worked on had proper safety markings and still allowed us to maneuver to the areas that we desire to go to. All the facilities are kept clean and the surrounding environment was very well taken care of.For those that use a wheelchair, there are plenty of spaces for wheelchair parking and the majority of stores and restaurants are easily accessible to the handicapped.The only recommendations I would propose are to add more fish in the pond, additional water fountains, and make a better Viking ship. Otherwise, a variety of things to do and a great place to spend the day.

T S — Google review

Cool and fun place to visit. A lot of nice stores, restaurants, snack places like ice cream, candies etc.. my teenagers especially like strolling around and got surf life style shop. I liked the grumpy monk terrace by the pond and those chickens fingers was super good! (Avoid the nachos. Not bad but not impressed. The put iceberg lettuce on it witch is weird). There’s a bunch of cool activity to do with kids. There’s is clean public restrooms with changing tables for babies easy to find.

Jessica M — Google review

Fantastic place! Huge with so many stores and things to do! Either with the family, alone or with your loved one this place is wonderful, feels like a small city by itself. Walking here is relaxing and a very nice experience. Plenty of restaurants and other stores, the scenery is beautiful! You'll feel transported to another place, we've been in Myrtle Beach at least 4 times but never we've been here, now this is a must place to visit in the future!

Francisco C — Google review

One of the best tourist places to come and hang out in Myrtle beach, lots of dining options and shopping stores. They have Ripley’s aquarium and other attractions. It’s also great to come at night!!! One of my favorite places to come and visit!

Mery M — Google review

This is a Wonderful Escape.Broadway at the beach is a nice place to relax, shop, and have a lot of fun. And when I say a lot, I mean a whole lot of fun.

Esdras ! — Google review

Cool variety of stores restaurants and entertainment from Amusem*nts to Aquariums. Thrill rides to 5d Theatres, Themed Restaurants, Bars, Japanese steakhouse, Mexican, Margaritaville, Wonderworks Science Museum, Jetboat Rides, paddle boats Ropes courses and ziplines, Escape Rooms. Something for Most!

Keith R — Google review

My first time here and we hadA blast . M -Golf was great onAll holes played well maintainedCourse . You can have drinksDelivered to you hole you arePlaying . This course is easyOn the feet and back turf allOver the place . They do haveFood and bar to enjoy a break.Cost is a bit high $30 for a allDay pass there is some discounts to be had YouKeep the ball you use .A must see course .

Thomas G — Google review

We enjoyed walking around Broadway at the beach. There’s something for everyone at Broadway at the beach. If you’d like Candy, there’s a lot of candy stores. There’s a movie theater. Plenty of places to eat. There’s fish you can feed. There’s Ripleys aquarium. There’s jet boat rides you can go on. Zip lining. Three or four sunglasses stores. But the store I mostly enjoyed this trip was the tervis tumbler store

Andy S — Google review

Great place to visit, so many attractions, shops, local businesses. Perfect for the whole family. Take your time to explore it. They have literally everything from magic shows to a aquarium

Ideathinker M — Google review

Broadway at the Beach is à great place to shop, enjoy a drink or have a night out with family and friends. Many bars and restaurants within fun shops I'm between to explore. The grounds are clean with an amusem*nt park feel. Right now there are some areas under construction but that only presents a small inconvenience. Well worth the visit if you are in the area.

M W — Google review

We really love going here if it's just for a stroll along the broadway, to grab a bite to eat, or even to go shopping. Going at night is always nice to see all the shops and restaurants lit up especially during spring or fall. They have a nice variety of shops which is a huge plus I think no matter the person they will be a place for everyone whether it be a novelty item, candy, clothes, memorabilia, and more. Great place if you want something free and just walk or if you want something to do.

Melissa L — Google review

There are a lot of touristy things to do here including some overpriced carnival rides. It seemed safe and foot traffic wasn't bad on a Saturday afternoon. Ample parking as well. Decent amount of food options.

Brad K — Google review

So one hell of a get away.. Got to this location on the slow season and was able to partake in everything that they had. It's great how much more you can do when you get there when it's not so crowded when it's on season. The hide out the stage, the aquarium. All that stuff was great. I definitely will be back. Had a very, very good time.

Chris R — Google review

Fun for locals and tourists because you can sit and people watch or pick up something fun in one of the shops or you can hear live music at one of the venues like The Hangout or Margaritaville. The restaurants are pricey, but tourists don't mind. The rides are fun at the amusem*nt park section. You can even watch the speedy boat ride or feed the fish in the lake.

V M — Google review

We stayed in Myrtle beach for 5 days and 4 nights and we went to the broadway at the beach everyday at different times. There’s was plenty to see and do each time. Me and my boys had a blast!! You must try the pineapple drinks they are the best and satisfying to watch them make it. Oh and the popcorn is amazing!!

Christine K — Google review

There was so much cool stuff! I loved it, and wanted to give it 5 stars but I took my kids over at 6:50pm and most of the stores were either closed already or in the process of locking up, so we only got to go in a few stores. My son wanted to go in the Hall of fame but the whole exhibit was closed. Like the section was EMPTY, nothing there? We did get to see an awesome candy store and the Hard Rock Cafe there

Megan F — Google review

Nice area to do some shopping or even walking around and taking a stroll before or after lunch or dinner. The only problem is that the stores only stay open until 7pm. I just wish they stayed open later. They also have a speedboat ride, which everyone seems to enjoy.

Jay S — Google review

4.6

(60567)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (166)

4.5

(9098)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (167)

1325 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA

(843) 444-3200

I'll never travel to Cocoa Beach without this trip planner again

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21

Brookgreen Gardens

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Botanical garden

Nature & Parks

Brookgreen Gardens, located 16 miles south of Myrtle Beach on Hwy 17S, is a unique public space that boasts a combination of botanical gardens and outdoor sculptures. The gardens cover over 9000 acres of land that was once a rice plantation, now converted into a subtropical garden paradise. It holds the largest collection of American sculpture in the country with seasonal blooms listed on its website. Visitors can explore the magical gardens and see exhibits featuring wild animals alongside beautiful sculptures.

An absolutely beautiful and enchanting place with friendly workers. Spent 4 hours there & I didn't even get to cover the whole place but it gives a sense of wonderment walking through the gardens and seeing the art throughout. Check out the welcome center as well because the workers in are lovely & can give you information about the grounds as well. BONUS, one ticket gets you in for 7 days so I can go back to check out the parts I haven't yet later this week! Also kudos to the groundskeepers as they maintain the gardens and land. They have done an amazing job!

RJ — Google review

What a surprising and beautiful place! Took a break from the beach to check it out on our last day in town. We spent 4 hours here and enjoyed the zoo, butterfly house and the sculptures. There was plenty of shade and areas out of the sun. Highly recommended this if you enjoy botanical gardens. The trees with the moss are totally breathtaking. The sculptures and gardens are so peaceful and beautiful. A great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas.

Mary C — Google review

WOW WOW WOW! if you love sight seeing and admiring the great things nature has to offer, COME HERE! I highly recommend this place and you will not regret if you come here. It is very pretty and it's huge! They sometimes have live music and food trucks too. Come here and you will find yourself in what looks like a royal families garden!

Jackson G — Google review

Went to the night Art Show and it was brilliant. There were beautiful displays, magnificent lighting and lots of volunteers to help guide you. The statues were gorgeous lite up. Don't forget your bug spray! I'm showing just a few of the different sections. Well worth the $25 admission.

G B — Google review

Beautiful gardens, sculptures, and views. A lot of it will inspire some introspection. Really enjoyed exploring this site, walking in relatively quiet nature, and stepping away from the crowds for a little while. If you are looking for non-beach related activities while visiting Myrtle Beach, look no further than the Brookgreen Gardens.

Thomas N — Google review

Lights of A Thousand Candles was the perfect start to the holiday season. It's an amazing sight to see. The festive spirit starts here. The pictures don't do it justice. You have to experience it in person. The staff do a great job organizing the parking, so it's easy in and out of the event. Get your tickets early. It's a popular venue, so get there early (when gates open).

Joann R — Google review

A very beautiful and peaceful garden experience. Was here for early spring on a 70 degree sunny day and everything was blooming and smelled wonderful. Very diversified range of wild flowers, plants, shrubs, trees and more! The zoo attached to is not the greatest, it hosts only localized animals of the south east only, minus a few such as the bald eagles. Which, had an awful enclosure in my opinion. There is a gift shop, restrooms, and a cafe area for snacks if needed.

Tyler J — Google review

This is simply one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. Staff was happy, knowledgeable, and helpful. They all seemed to genuinely enjoy their jobs. Stay out of the water. There really are alligators in there as stated on the caution signs. We did the creek excursion, it was amazing. Worth every penny.

Tessa G — Google review

A beautiful place to spend sometime at, during the day. Very reasonably priced. It was peaceful strolling along the path seeing statues and flowers trees. My wife and I enjoyed our time together taking pictures being together in the gardens.There are some amazing sculptures of flocks of birds in flight in one of the buildings where the artist has them so balanced and connected they you don't even notice. I only know because it was explained to me. I posted a couple of pictures for you to see, but I highly recommend seeing for yourself.

John L — Google review

The gardens are beautiful - we appreciated that many of the plants were marked helping us to identify several that we did not know.. Unfortunately we only had 2 hours, so we did not get to the zoo area and had to rush through a couple of the gardens. We would gladly go back if we are ever in the area. Oh, and the ticket is for 7 day admission! Wow! That’s a deal.

Danielle N — Google review

Spectacularly beautiful gardens & sculptures. 3 hours wasn’t nearly enough, we will have to come back someday. If you’re staying in the area your ticket is good for a week and if you like this type of venue it would be good to plan for at least a couple hours over a couple days. We kinda had to rush through and it was hot as heck but this place is a true gem.

Jeff S — Google review

BrookGreen is so beautiful! The park is very well laid out, and has something for everyone. If you like animals, there is a small zoo and butterfly garden; plus there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife in and around the whole park. Tons of flowers, and pretty sculptures all over the park. You will need multiple days to see everything proper.

Jess L — Google review

Lovely Garden. Well maintained and always has flowers whenever we have gone. The tickets are currently $22 for adults, there are discounts for AAA members, military, over 65. There are a lot of sculptures to enjoy, butterfly garden ( open only till 2 pm), boat tours( additional 10$ per person and only till certain time of the day), a small zoo. There are picnic tables and also shuttle between parking lots. You can easily spend a day or more. The ticket is valid for 7 days. If you are in the area, you can go multiple times. There is also Yoga in the park on Saturdays. Such a nice place, very peaceful. Plenty of parking spaces.

Sanjeeta P — Google review

Brookgreen Gardens located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina is an awesome place. We attended the gardens in the winter time at night when they were having their 1,000 candles display. Which is very impressive but also the thousands of lights on the live Oaks are just amazing. We had friends visiting from out of state and we all went. We had a great time. This is a must see. Expect to spend a minimum of 90 minutes to see everything. We could have easily spent at least another hour but we had dinner reservations so we decided to leave. We hope to be able to go back in the daylight when we have more time to really experience this beautiful place. We highly recommend it.

Richard M — Google review

I highly recommend Brookgreen gardens! My friends, and I had so much fun walking around the sculpture garden, visiting the low country zoo, and just checking out all the art deco in the art gallery! There’s currently an art deco expose that just opened today! At the “zoo”‘ I was so at ease seeing the excellent treatment of the animals, which is a treat if you’ve visited any other animal exhibits/activities in the Myrtle beach area (please don’t). I highly recommend giving Brookgreen gardens a visit!

Brooke W — Google review

Just incredible. The combination of culture, nature, and art is unsurpassed. Immaculately kept by dedicated volunteers. They are knowledgeable, friendly, and all over the property to help you understand what you're looking at. It's worth twice the price of admission. The grounds, the galleries, the zoo, all a must see when you are in the area. It's one of the coolest places I've seen in a long time.

Larry H — Google review

Filled with art sculptures. Beautiful grounds. Very well kept flowers, trees, etc. Ticket entry is good for seven days. Lots of walking. We used our entry ticket twice the week we were in Myrtle Beach.We all agreed the place was lovely, but we thought the zoo has no place at these gardens. The animals are in small and poor conditions. The enclosed aviary had dead fish floating in the water. Not just one or two. Lots of dead fish. The enclosed swimming tank for the otter was heart breaking. Their outside area stunk. Didn’t see the foxes or deer. The owls looked pitiful. The animals really should be sent to an establishment that is designed to help and care for these creatures. Just let this be the beautiful outside museum of art that it is.

Todd N — Google review

Beautiful place. Amazing sculptures, trees, flowers, everything. Very clean and well kept up. Staff is nice!the gift shop prices were way too high though. Sadly the butterfly garden was closed but tons of animals to look at! Definitely worth the stop!

Paige M — Google review

June 25, 1030-130. What a beautiful place & very nice people. The gallery, the gardens, the zoo; just perfect. Wish we had more time to ride the boat & just meander. Sharing picture of the sculpture that had the most contagious smile - sure made us all happy. Thank you all & stay blessed.

Marie A — Google review

We attended for the Summer Light exhibit. We arrived early enough that the lines weren't too bad for the food trucks to get something to eat before walking the grounds. Checking out most of the statues and being able to read the descriptions while it was still light outside was a good idea too. Once the sun went down, the light displays were really impressive.

Dave W — Google review

We spent two days enjoying the ground at Brookgreen Gardens and still didn't see everything. The gardens are beautiful and expansive. The sculptures on the grounds each have an amazing story. The history of the Gardens and it's founder are very intriguing. The staff and volunteers were all knowledgeable and helpful. This is a must see.

Kory L — Google review

Reasonable entrance fee and so much to see. Animals, amazing gardens, fountains and ponds, as well as inspired art, there is something for everybody and you can go back on your tickets for several days. Please make this a stop on your visit it's been one of the best parts of our vacation.

Amy R — Google review

Went to see the amazing display of Christmas lights and candles. It was truly awesome. I did have to purchase gloves and a hat at the gift shop, and boy was I glad they had them for sale. I do wish they would have had little hot chocolate stands or something along the paths but they did sell it at the very end. It was a little confusing to figure out if we got to see everything but it was a great start to the holidays. Great experience with my daughter and granddaughter.

Teresa H — Google review

We had a great time walking through the gardens, viewing the sculptures, learning about the low country enslavement history, and strolling the native zoo. Though $22 seemed a bit much at first, we thought it was well worth it, even in the off season (maybe even moreso with the smaller crowds). All of the volunteers we met were pleasant and helpful. Highly accessible for those who need accommodations

Phil H — Google review

What an enchanting experience! 13 of us ventured into the lovely gardens! The sunset was wonderful! The staff were so helpful. We enjoyed strolling and sipping beverages as we enjoyed the breathtaking, sculptures, plants, trees, lights and decorations! If you want to be in awe, this is the place to be! So glad we were able to secure tickets and share such a fabulous time that we’ll talk about forever!

Pam S — Google review

Very exciting, the otters were so cute (*’(OO)’*). They are very playful but they run away with each other a lot, the gray fix is so hard to see, the gift show is so preppy and I got a opossum, on the way in we saw a couple of 🦃turkeys. But did not take a picture of them. ENJOY YOUR STAY!! 😍😍😍😍

Izzy K — Google review

This is a breathtaking venue! Our team loves working at Brookgreen. Endless photo spots and unique art. The staff is hardworking and the food is great! We highly recommend this location for your wedding!

Paula S — Google review

Beautiful gardens to walk through. Many sculptures around the gardens.The creek tour boat ride was a wonderful history lesson.

Steve S — Google review

Amazing experience at the "Nights of a Thousand Candles." The statues are displayed so beautifully and the Oak Trees & grounds are spectacular with all the lights.I've visited in other seasons and it's such a tranquil place to take time and enjoy all the beauty.

Candy R — Google review

4.8

(5463)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (179)

5.0

(4086)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (180)

Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, USA

(843) 235-6000

22

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is a family-friendly zoo with African and Australian animals, reptile galleries, a bird house, a farm, and botanical gardens. The zoo features a splash pad with rubber surfaces that has been upgraded in the summer. There are also playhouses, treehouses, a large field with toys and games, a waterfall and 2 splash pads.

Riverbanks zoo reminds of Animal Kingdom set in good old Disney World without the financial hard ship going there. Riverbanks is simply an amazing zoo. I would recommend setting aside 3-4 hours to see everything, this of course is set with a two old in mind. We stopped and saw just about everything and even petted some very friendly goats. Some stuff does cost extra, $20 on the zoo card will be more than enough for two children.The giraffe feeding stops at 1:30pm so if that is on your agenda I would get in line early. We went on a Sunday and the crowds were not too bad. We will definitely become frequent visitors. 10/10 I highly recommend.

Tai S — Google review

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is fabulous! We absolutely love it here and have been visiting regularly for 10+ years. The animal variety is second to none. The layout of the zoo flows very nice to ensure you can enjoy each stop to see all that it offers during your visits. The staff do a great job of keeping the zoo very clean and safe. They are very, attentive, and provide excellent service every time we are there. The expansions keep coming and continue improving and evolving this Zoo into one of the best visits you and your family can make.If I was going to provide a critique, I would recommend more fans through out the park. South Carolina (especially in the midlands) can get very hot and humid during the summer months and that heat can make visiting the park a less than pleasant experience if you are not use to the heat down here (heck even if you are 😂). More fans through out the park would add to the already amazing atmosphere and help create some more much needed cool zones through out.One last add. Please visit during the Halloween and Christmas events. They are fantastic and highly recommended. For adults the Brew at the Zoo is one of the best attractions around. Enjoy!

Jacob G — Google review

This was an amazing experience! The $5 parking is worth it if you are wanting to go to the botanical gardens/splash pad first or last on your visit. The prices were fair for adults at $26 for how big of a zoo it is! There were some of every animal including giraffes you can feed, a kangaroo exhibit you can walk through, and sea lions you can stand next to. Animals included monkeys, gorillas, lions, tigers, snakes, birds of all kinds, goats, alpacas, bears, otters, tortoises, penguins, tropical fish, jellyfish, sea turtles, koalas, sloths, and so much more. I even tried out the ropes course within the zoo (requires shoes w/ heel strap) which was priced at $7 for non-members. It was a good ropes course for the price! I do recommend having a parent or older sibling go up with a younger child if they're new to ropes courses. The height can be a fear factor and the way the harness is attached to the top of the course can make it harder for smaller kids to reach in order to move around the course. As an adult, it's a fun add-on especially if you're looking for some more thrill with your zoo experience. The botanical gardens were gorgeous! They were located right next to the $5 parking and the tram. Overall, I really enjoyed visiting the Riverbanks Zoo and all of the staff here were polite and happy.

Michelle L — Google review

Wild Nights was awesome! Really looked great from the front gate fungi/coral to the animated creatures. Went on Black Friday with family in town for the holidays. Highly recommend buying tickets in advance as another group mentioned it was already sold out when we arrived right after 5pm. The kids loved that the train and carousel were both running.The person at the gate was very helpful as we had multiple ticket purchases across several confirmation emails. Would definitely go again.

Jeremy L — Google review

A place where families can come and witness animals from around the world in a protected and safe environment. The Riverbanks Zoo rescues animals from around the globe to rehabilitate them and care for them with such love. The zoo is filled with a variety of animals ranging from tigers, lions, gorillas, and birds from all countries. This place is clean, family friendly, and caters to all ages. If you're ever in Columbia, SC, I would definitely recommend this place for a fun family outing. If you wish to take friends, you can purchase yearly passes that give you 4-8 guest passes, depending on your choice of yearly pass.

Alexander ( — Google review

The zoo is well maintained, clean, and organized.There’s a $5 dollar fee for the parking and they have plenty of parking spaces.You can book in advance “behind the scenes” to pet some of the animals. (Check their website).If you go early in the morning you can feed the giraffes.There are plenty of restrooms around, some of them smell bad and are messy, speciallyIf the zoo is pretty busy.The bird part smells bad but is just the smell of the birds. Just be aware.They rent strollersGift shop availableThey have photographers at the entrance with a giant green screen.They have an interactive farm for kids, a carousel, and more.Food and drinks from outside are not allowed.

Veronica — Google review

we love this place! this is my fourth time at the riverbanks zoo, and it's never failed to please. easy access, plenty of parking, affordable ticket prices (I recommend getting the extended bracelet deal, feeding the giraffes is part of it, and it's really worth it). the animals seem to be well taken care of, and if you go earlier in the day, you'll be able to see everyone waking up and hanging out (the otters were especially excited for the sunshine and company). definitely dress comfy and bring plenty of water! there's lots of shade and several drinking fountains, but it was nice to have our own on hand. this was our first time making it up to the gardens, and that was also really worth the trip up. the waterfall splash area is great for the kiddos in the heat. I believe there's a lot on the west side where you can park and the access is much easier for the gardens and play area. all around great time!

Heather H — Google review

The zoo was awesome! There were a lot of nice animals, and the enclosures/habitats were more than adequate for the animals. Healthy animals! My favorite places to visit had the flamingos and the lions. They had a grizzly bear, which I had not seen before. The botanical gardens were nice, as well. Small, but nice. There is a tram that takes you from the zoo to the garden. It took me and my partner about 3.5 hours to do the zoo and the garden.

Mar P — Google review

I visited her in the spring, and it was fantastic. We enjoyed feeding the giraffes. We were able to get up close to the gorillas even though their enclosure is going through renovations. I loved the sea lion exhibit. The aquarium had just recently opened back up and was super crowded. We were not able to check that out, but it looked super nice from the outside. My daughter and nephew loved all the activities this zoo offers. This zoo is very well kept, and the animals looked happy and healthy.

Marsha D — Google review

Went this past week with my nieces (1 yo) and they had a blast. There are lots of exhibits and we saw all of them and stayed for about 2 hours total. We were able to see all of the animals except the tiger(s). My nieces especially loved the aquarium and the penguin exhibit. We got to see them performing maintenance/cleaning in one of the aquarium tanks which was pretty cool. Also got to see a couple of young gorillas nursing. I would recommend bringing some bug spray and sunscreen. There’s a lot of tree cover and canopies at exhibits providing shade throughout the park but there are also areas in direct sunlight at many of the exhibits. The park overall was very clean and there was lots to do. Also recommend going during the week/off season as the temperature is cooler so you’re able to see more animals and it is WAY less busy. There were maybe a max of 5 other people at an exhibit with us. Did not see or visit the garden this time, but definitely have plans to visit next time. This was our 2nd time making the trip to this zoo and we will definitely be back!

Faith L — Google review

Beautiful and spacious zoo. There are unique animals that live here, that are not at a typical zoo. Lots of shade to keep you cool while viewing the animals. And very, very clean!The enclosures have lots of space and the animals seemed happy and energetic, compared to other zoos I’ve visited. There are friendly zookeepers posted around the zoo to share interesting information on the animals. They were well informed and were able to answer all the questions we asked. My favorite part was visiting the Kangaroos. You are able to actually go inside the enclosure (while staying on the path) to view the kangaroos from a short distance without any fence or obstruction blocking your view. The experience felt up close, but was a safe distance away.We enjoyed the trek up the trail to the garden through dense trees that felt like it’s own separate space from the zoo. The garden is well taken care of and has a calming atmosphere. We then rode the tram back down the trail where we were brought back to the zoo. It is nice the facility offers the tram at no extra cost.Overall, we had a great time! This is probably my favorite zoo now.

Gabi B — Google review

I visited with my kids here during the Christmas holidays. The weather was pleasant.There was no wait line at the ticket counter.The charges for kids and adults are almost the same.It's not very big zoo but there are lots of animals and well maintained.There are more than one lion, tiger, orangutan and many more.There are different animal talk times for more information.With special bands you can go near few animals like giraffe, feed birds and play games.Sometimes the layout gets confusing but it's small enough to trace the steps back.The alligator 🐊 was not there.There are lots of picnic tables.I could go near kangaroo 🦘.Zoo rangers are always nearby and helpful with information or directions.There are many eating outlets.It's a good to spend with kids.

Archie — Google review

The zoo was pretty big, and had a good selection of animals. Compared to other zoos I've visited, it was ok. Animals were on the smaller size, and the one grizzly bear we saw looked like he had mange (fur was patchy in several places). The plus for me was that you can take the free tram to the botanical gardens which was included in the ticket price. That was my favorite part. Walking through the gardens was a nice outing, and there were places with seating, food, activities, and a splash park for kids. Overall I enjoyed it.

Tonya — Google review

I would recommend getting here EARLY and leaving before 1-2pm. It gets extremely busy after lunch time, but aside from that I had a wonderful time! I had to bring my service dog with me and the staff were respectful and understanding! There are some places you aren’t allowed to go with a service animal but that is understandable and totally fine! Bathrooms were kept clean and smelled fine, there wasn’t trash or debris everywhere. The animals confinements looked clean and well taken care of which was a favorite of mine! I will say it took a while to get our food when we went up to a food truck. This was at lunch time and the place was getting pretty crowded by then. I had an absolute blast here and will definitely come back.

Jayden C — Google review

I dropped in unexpectedly, looking to get some steps in. Lots of trails and flora. Many places to sit and take a load off.You can walk from the garden to the zoo, it's only 3/10 mile. Zoo was a bit more crowded, but pretty cool....and they sell beer 😁.Check out Saluda Ruins, BEAUTIFUL walk and an interesting story. I was there for about 2 hours and got in my 10k steps.

Erik S — Google review

Well worth the visit! I went with my wife and 2 kiddos, oldest is 9. We really liked the aquarium with a wide variety of up close exhibits. The ocean exhibit had numerous "Coming Soon" attractions. Note that to ride the carousel or do the climbing wall, you must buy extra tickets like at a carnival, but the prices are not ridiculous. When we went, the carousel cost $2 per ride. We also let our daughter try the high ropes obstacle course. This was another fee ($7 per person) but well worth it. Mom and Dad enjoyed the bridge and trails to the botanical gardens, which was included with the zoo admission. Great family outing!

Jarrod R — Google review

Free zoo map is available. I was able to see all the animals so close. Was also able to feed a giraffe and brush the goats. They are very cute. Don't forget to get some merchandises too on the way to the parking lot.

Andita M — Google review

I've always loved the zoo, and now I get the joy of taking my girls. I do suggest a membership as it pays for itself and tickets are pricey but it's worth it. We usually take snacks with us and we have the souvenir cups. We love doing boo at the zoo and the lights at the zoo

Angel W — Google review

Such a great place to bring the family to! The kids loved seeing the animals and learning about all them. Love their aquarium area too! So neat to see them all and watch the kids eyes light up with joy over seeing how they live. If you haven’t gone yet I’d strongly suggest going asap!

Danielle O — Google review

Beautiful zoo, kept clean, prices are as you'd expect going to any big park these days. Good food variety, as well as snacks, drinks. Tons of animal exhibits, overall great for the fam & everyone!Great parking options.

C P — Google review

Took advantage of the last free Friday for this month. First time at the zoo and was not disappointed. Only spent about 2 1/2 hours but really enjoyed. I pretty much stuck to one side of the zoo this time and will explore the other half later on. Highly recommend. The only thing I wish they had was more food options but I’m not complaining because i know how that goes but I went prepared! Took my own food!

Annie G — Google review

Very well put together Zoo and Gardens. There is a lot of various animals to see, such as gorillas, giraffes, kangaroos, grizzly bear, sea lions and so forth. I recommend you bring some water for your walk around this zoo you will be doing a lot of walking especially if you want to walk across the pedestrian bridge.There are a couple different options you can take to get to and from the Zoo side and the Botanical Garden side. One way is taking the Woodland Trail beginning on the garden side. Next would be taking the walking path that runs along the Tram Road it is rather steep. Finally is the Tram with are two Ford Super Duty Pickups with three “wagons” attached behind each pickup it will take you to and from the Zoo side and the Garden side. There however is usually a wait for the Tram. We chose to walk the path along the Tram road.This Zoo was extremely crowded. It is probably best if you try to go on a weekday. We went on a Saturday it was extremely busy. I highly recommend checking out the gift shop and buying a souvenir. This is one of the best Zoos I have been to.

Jake Y — Google review

We had a great time,animals were cool food was good and wait times were a bit long on a few things but other wise it was great, it’s very nice and nothing is to far apart so it’s not that bad when walking from place to place extra things were very affordable being 2 dollars a person just so you know the zoo does a coin system kind of so if you want to do an extra and you had 3 people it would 6 dollars with each coin being 1 dollar a piece,extras were very cool with the extras being feeding giraffes,feeding birds and other things. I would recommend getting to the zoo as early as possible because it gets crowded very fast you could get to see more things actually moving and running around and that’s just a few things to keep in mind.

Mc B — Google review

God have us an absolutely perfect day for our visit! It was 75°, partly cloudy, and a gentle breeze. Although it was fairly busy, everyone moved along through all the exhibits quickly. I'd have to say that our group's highlights were feeding the Coconut Lorikeet, walking among the kangaroos, and visiting the botanical garden (took the tram up). It's a great place for kids of all ages. The garden has quite a few play areas of all different themes and many water features. The kids were having a blast in the water activities. They even have a cabana for bathing suit changes. It's a "must see" if you're in the area. We'll be visiting again in the future.

Patricia V — Google review

Came to the zoo in the morning. Most animals were out as breakfast was being served to some of the animals. It was pleasant that the weather was cool, so a light coat or long sleeves did the trick. By the time it was 11 a.m., it warmed up. Not very crowded, it was nice to walk through and take some time to see the animals starting their day. Since it was 9:30 am when I got in, not many food/drink places were available until closer to 11, so I purchased a bottle of water from one of the vending machines and kept exploring. If you're looking for a slower pace to venture, I recommend the morning, I enjoyed it.

Ari G — Google review

"Love taking the kids here! Awesome zoo with aquarium and aviaries. Large habitats are great but animals can be shy. Park lacked water due to a break on a hot day, $4 for water bottles is steep. Offering cheap bottles until boil mandate lifted would've helped. Kids enjoyed feeding birds and the sky high safari was a highlight!"

Cobey R — Google review

Riverbank zoo is a all day adventure for the family! I recommend buying tickets online as somedays it's packed here. Always building new and exciting exhibits for the animals. This is definitely a all day trip for all ages. Many many animals to see and multiple locations thay are indoors and cooled when you get too hot. There is also petting zoo areas and small rides like a train and carousel for the little ones. They do sell food and drinks there but they are very very expensive. We bring food and eat it outside on the benches then go back inside.

Tony G — Google review

Riverbanks Zoo is always a fun day for the kids. Even after multiple visits, it never gets old. A great way for the kids to get their energy out. They absolutely love it when Waterfall Junction is open and love the giraffe feeding, too! The grounds and gardens are always beautiful!

Deanna B — Google review

This is a great Zoo. Downside is make sure you get the wristbands to actually participate in feeding the 🦒 and doing a good amount of things the kids will want to do. Downside was we didn't see the large tortoise or many monkeys. There were no cats available to view either as a lot of exhibits were being renovated. The food is definitely not great, everything costs so much these days. Expect to spend at least $160 for a few hours and 2 people. Clean, well staffed and easy to find.

Ree C — Google review

Here visiting for the weekend and came on a Friday. Really enjoyed this zoo! I think it is very kid friendly and has a lot of activities for them to do, not just see the animals. We came at a good time (10 am) so most of the animals were pretty active. We enjoyed seeing the reptiles and Gorillas the most. It was definitely busy that day due to many schools having field trips to the zoo. They only really had snacks around the park, which is expected at a zoo. I do recommend doing to Tuskers if you real food while visiting though. We also really enjoyed walking the Garden trails. I highly recommend checking out this zoo!

Lauren L — Google review

Other than the number of people, we had a great time. The staff was nice and all the animals were out. Can't wait to go on a weekday and be able to take our time watching the animals.

Lydia D — Google review

We got there at 1pm and had enough time to stop by most the exhibits, but many of the animals were sleeping. I'd recommend getting there earlier so you can go back to see the animals you missed on the first round. The zoo itself was not very big, so you can easily make a couple laps. The parking lot was hectic when we got there (1pm on a Saturday), but once we got past the entrance, we found many open spots, while others were fighting for closer parking.

Danielle C — Google review

4.7

(20068)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (187)

4.5

(2961)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (188)

500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210, USA

(803) 779-8717

23

Middleton Place

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Historical landmark

Nature & Parks

Middleton Place, a sprawling rice plantation on the Ashley River dating back to the 1730s, is located about fifteen miles northwest of Charleston. Once home to the Middleton family, who played significant roles in South Carolina's colonial and antebellum history, this landmark suffered damage during both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Despite being ransacked by British troops and burned by Union soldiers, Middleton Place stands today as a National Historic Landmark District.

We have visited four plantations in the Charleston area. This is our favorite setting and relaxing atmosphere. The grounds are exceptionally maintained. We spent two hours walking the grounds. It is the various buildings that tell the story. One stop shows a very large number of Middleton slaves. Depicted by each location and where they determined their value to the plantations.The house tour is self guided after a short synopsis of the Middleton family and furnishings.We had lunch outdoors in a very relaxed setting. Salad with baked chicken breast, green fried tomatoes with sauce and corn fritters with honey butter.

Runnsun — Google review

Lovely grounds. You pull into the gravel parking lot and there is a Cafe/market to the left. Please know that is not the only place to grab a bite. You can access this, as well as the gift shop, prior to your paid entrance. We opted for a tour of the house for an additional $15pp. Not sure if I would do that again. We were maybe in there 15 minutes....maybe. it's self guided but there are volunteers to tell stories or answer questions. If you are expecting a grand southern plantation mansion, this is not it. Its a small 2 story home. The first thing you see upon entering the plantation is the large reflecting pond. Very beautiful. The next thing you'll notice is the livestock running amuck. Namely sheep. So be careful where you walk. 😉 they do have a lovely dining room. It was a very nice plantation. Lots of grounds to explore. Everyone was very nice. Just not that grand southern home. Not sure the livestock gets the best care. Which is why I gave it 4 stars.

Sherri F — Google review

We visited Middleton in late September 2022. Granted, hurricane Ian provided atypical weather, but in general, it’s probably not the best time to visit. Little to nothing was in bloom. The grounds were well kept and people were friendly and helpful. There were a few animals freely roaming - a handful of sheep and some swans. They had horse stables but nothing super interactive. There are some small buildings to showcase how the enslaved lived, but it’s not very detailed. The grounds had easy walking paths - mostly sand-based so if you are wearing sandals, know you’ll get a littledusty. There’s a restaurant on site which is nice. The beyond the fields tour … wasn’t a tour. You gather around under a tree, sit on benches and listen to a historian explain the enslaved conditions. It was informative, but different than how it was presented. There is a restroom, gift shop and plant shop in the parking area. It’s not a must-see for me. We spent about 2.5 hours here.

Cortney A — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous location. The oak trees are stunning, the gardens are lovely to stroll through, and I love a history lesson. We went to the restaurant last week and enjoyed the drive out, delicious food and co*cktails and friendly and helpful staff. Shout out to Maggie who helped us make memorable dish selections. Looking forward to coming back later this fall for a wine stroll. I went last year and enjoyed it so much, I am coming back with girlfriends! I would recommend it as a date or as a nice evening with friends.

BKV — Google review

Middleton Place is an absolute marvel of natural beauty! 😍❤️The breathtaking landscapes left me in awe, making every corner a picture-perfect moment. Strolling through the gardens, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of admiration for the family behind its preservation. Their dedication and foresight in maintaining such a stunning estate are truly commendable. It's a place where history and nature intertwine seamlessly, leaving visitors like myself with a profound sense of respect and wonder.🤩

Chloe T — Google review

Restaurant had a very good steak, but the locally made cinnamon ice cream, I honestly cannot stop thinking about it. The view outside this restaurant, although "wild" not tamed, alligators were ALL OVER THE PROPERTY, was Southern thick farmland and just spectacular. The property tour was very neat and the history was rich and interesting. The Inn was very different and unique, rooms had ceiling to floor windows showing the lush grounds. An interesting property worth the visit.

Cyndi B — Google review

Breathtaking! This place was the highlight of our honeymoon. The cured gardens and ponds were like a dream. The staff are all very helpful and know their stuff or will send you to someone who does. What a pleasant and enjoyable day. Give yourself a whole day to soak in the history and experience of this estate. Enjoy!

Kevin K — Google review

Beautiful grounds and house. Wonderful restaurant on property with absolutely amazing food. House tour was very informative as were the historical interpreters around the grounds. Very relaxing and serene surroundings.

US 1 — Google review

Really beautiful and well-maintained gardens which was so peaceful and serene. Special shoutout to the tour guides Eloisa (for the garden tour) and Gary Finch (for the Beyond the Fields tour) who were so passionate and did such an amazing and engaging job with the complimentary tours! Really loved the amazing nature views and animals on the plantation too and had such a great time. Would definitely recommend for all nature and animal lovers! 🥰🌷🍀

Liu Y — Google review

Great historical place to visit. Beautiful landscapes and the old buildings are amazing. Bring bottled water as it was hot a d humid and there is a lot of walking but, worth every minute of it.

Jeff K — Google review

Absolutely beautiful! Loved getting to walk around and explore the gardens- there were tons of free garden tours or other guides that you could listen to- to learn more information about. But overall it was such a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It’s pretty far North Charleston- and tons of walking- we got there around 9:30am and didn’t get done until 12:45pm- so allocate for a good chunk of time here!

Kelley — Google review

Absolutely loved it! Amazing grounds and scenery. The house tour was really cool, lots of history in the building. The restaurant waa nice, I didn't eat there, but it smelled amazing. Had a couple drinks at bar, beat Old Fashioned I have had in years! Huge shout out to Colby H.....kudos buddy!

Gloria W — Google review

We booked a tour van out to the estate which included transportation, tour of house and lunch. Self guided tour of grounds and gardens in between the timed tour and lunch.Beautiful place and well preserved house with interesting articles from the Middletons. Gardens are beautifully maintained. All of the staff were extremely helpful and kind. A must if visiting Charleston.

Bernadette J — Google review

This is a lovely place to spend the day. We went specifically to see the Middleton Oak. The ticket agent was helpful with directions to get to the oak on the shortest route. The grounds are lovely with lots of wooded, shady paths. We saw swans in the reflecting pond and alligators in the flooded rice fields, which my daughter was very excited about. The two gift shops are very nice and well stocked with a variety of items of different price points.

Rhonda W — Google review

Visiting from Georgia and this was such a fun outing! Bought student tickets online, quick and easy. The parking is good. The whole estate is very large and worth the price. There are some small trails around the swamp, some by the water, some around the garden. It is all well maintained and beautiful. We were not able to attend any of the tours but there are plenty scheduled throughout the day. The livestock here are very nice and obviously well taken care of. The chickens ran up to us expecting food, which kind of startled my partner. I loved the whole experience here. Though I do recommend coming when the heat of summer isn’t in full affect, we were dripping sweat by the time we were done here in July.

Unknown I — Google review

Middleton has beautiful gardens and grounds along the Ashley River. You can find period reenactment of many of the trades that used to exist on the plantation, along with animals that would have been present during the Middleton family's residency. It has also been the set for movies, such as "The Patriot."The Foundation that runs Middleton does an excellent job maintaining the property and in recent years has been very open about the tragic reality that the Middleton family owned hundreds of enslaved people. It seems they are trying to do their part to preserve history and acknowledge the failings of the past.

Scott P — Google review

Middleton Place is really special. First the staff are very helpful. And they are easy to find. Everything is well organized & with the map, it's not hard to get around. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful. There are plenty of beaches to set and enjoy the views. It's nice the restaurant is on the grounds. Having a place to set, cool off and relax helps so much.

K A — Google review

What a wonderful place to visit. It has great trails throughout the property, and it is so peaceful and beautiful. It is truly a step back in time. I loved the trails that were bordering the Ashley River.... phenomenal! A huge Osprey dove down, caught a fish, and flew right by us. So cool! We did not do the house tour, but I was perfectly content outside with the beautiful topography and interacting with all the animals, most excellent visit!

MA B — Google review

I have been to Middleton multiple times over the years. It has beautiful gardens that you can get lost in. Don't look at the pics here. Just get out and see it. I went to a Creative mornings event that was hosted here and didn't pay but there is usually a fee. There is a cute garden center where you can buy plants, but the big draw is the incredible southern landscape. Enjoy!

Descartes — Google review

Went on a Wednesday night when they were having one of their annual wine walks. Four stations with a red and a white wine as well as a cheese board and finger sandwiches at each station. The grounds were beautiful, not a lot of colorful flowers, but lots of greenery. The ponds had alligators and turtles, made for a magical night. Highly recommend.

Jaime K — Google review

Amazing plantation with knowledgeable guides and tons of history. We visited early October and the weather was spectacular. Did Beyond the Fields and Guided Garden Tour. Both were included in the admission price. Ate lunch in the restaurant which was wonderful. Our wait staff was engaging and attentive. (No tax on the bill!) Learned so much about slavery and history of the plantation. The trees alone were worth the visit. One was 1,000 years old! I highly recommend.

Robyn B — Google review

Incredible tour with lots to do! My husband and I spent 6 hours walking around the beautiful property, ate an incredible lunch and toured the main house. So many beautiful things to look at and a lot of rich history. Make sure to say hello to Arthur, the resident stable cat!

Miranda Z — Google review

Magnificent! You could spend all day here and still want to come back for more. The volunteers there are very knowledgeable and helpful, you can tell they love being there. A ton of history to absorb there. Animals are friendly and there is no shortage of picture opportunities. Restaurant on site is good but a little pricey.

Katie I — Google review

Great way to spend the afternoon in Charleston area. This place was brimming with history but had enough to keep all ages occupied. I have 4 kids aged 12-17 and they really enjoyed the grounds. The house tour is an addition that added a lot of context. They have numerous guided tours on the grounds themselves including a garden tour and a stable tour. Beautiful place and worth the trip.

Andrew J — Google review

Beautiful ❤️ and Natural Surroundings. Please check Flower Blossoms season and you will enjoy it.Yes, live alligator 🐊 all around the place.

Devang P — Google review

Huge property, nicely laid out walking tour of the gardens and working areas. The day we were here, they were doing guided golf cart tours of the rice field.There is an extra cost to see the home on this site. I would suggest going earlier in the day rather than later due to heat during this late spring and summer.

Leith B — Google review

4.7

(2566)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (196)

4.5

(4411)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (197)

4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA

(843) 556-6020

24

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

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Park

Nature & Parks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Joe Riley Waterfront Park on the east side of Charleston provides sweeping views of the harbor and is a popular spot for people to relax, picnic, and take in the sights. There are drinking fountains scattered throughout the park and wireless Internet access.

This park is set along the ocean and calls you to remember the history of the area as you walk along its paths.Flowers & Majestic Trees line the walking routes that eventually guide you to the the famous Pineapple fountain ⛲️ and the pier.Lots of restaurants and shopping close by.A relaxing way to spend a few hours or all day.

Laura L — Google review

Such an amazing place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Lots of benches to sit down and take a moment to relax. Beautiful fountains (including the famous Pineapple fountain) down here! The boardwalk is right next to the water and leads all the way to the water taxi pickup. The grove of trees is like walking through a green tunnel, especially gorgeous close to sunset with the suns rays penetrating the leaves.

Ajimon T — Google review

Here is a Google traveler review for Joe Riley Waterfront Park:Pros:Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the Cooper RiverLarge, open spaces with plenty of room to walk, run, or bikeSeveral playgrounds and splash pads for kidsPicnic areas with grills and tablesPublic restroomsFree parkingCons:Can get crowded during peak timesNo shade in some areasNot much shade for picnickingNo food or drink vendors on-siteOverall:Joe Riley Waterfront Park is a great place to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and get some exercise. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be prepared for crowds. If you're looking for a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this might not be the park for you. But if you're looking for a beautiful, well-maintained park with plenty of activities to keep you busy, then Joe Riley Waterfront Park is definitely worth a visit.Rating: 4 out of 5 starsDate of visit: June 21, 2023Time of visit: 10:00 AMWeather: Sunny, 75 degrees FahrenheitOverall impression: I really enjoyed my visit to Joe Riley Waterfront Park. The views of the Cooper River are amazing, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. I would definitely recommend this park to anyone visiting Charleston.

Eduardo J — Google review

We visited on a weekday afternoon in the spring. It was fairly busy with spring break tourists. It was difficult finding parking. We had to circle a lot before we found a lot with open spaces. There are two fountains and a boardwalk. People are allowed to play in the fountains! No one was in them due to the cooler weather. The pier has a covered picnic area and bench swings. My kid loved the swings! There's a Carnival Cruise Line dock next door and there was a ship there! The pineapple fountain was gorgeous. It was much more detailed than I expected. There's an area with benches close by shaded by many live oaks. Just beautiful.

Amber C — Google review

A staple must do on your Charleston visit!Enjoy the park with trails under oaks or along the marsh, benches, swings on the dock leading to the marsh, a dock by the Tug Boats, and of course infamous Pineapple Fountain.One of the best views of the Charleston area bay and especially for sunrise!You can find me here occasionally doing my morning rucks or on the docks enjoying the sea!We hope you enjoy our beautiful city of Charleston!- The Pirate Hunter

Justin M — Google review

Super cool cool park. We felt like we were in a Jane Austin book taking a turn around the gardens. It was incredible beautiful and well cared for. We wish we had more time to just come and chill. This is a must got for a quiet place to rest. It’s very peaceful. Now should be mentioned it’s not a park for kids to run or dogs to be walked etc. even a sign that says no running. It’s a tranquil park. Which is what brings some of it awesomeness.

Steven D — Google review

Beautiful water front park with lots of trees, benches and great views. Check out the pineapple and other fountain. Kids should wear their bathing suits, and adults can dip their toes too! A few restaurants and an ice cream shop are nearby.

Steve T — Google review

Nice walking area along the water. There are 2 fountains that the kids are allowed to play in and cool off, dont forget to bring a towel. I fountain is called the pineapple fountain which looks like a pineapple. The pier is nice, has a shaded area with a couple of swings. Grandchild was able to ride her bike along the path.

Joy B — Google review

Beautiful waterfront location with stunning views of the river. The park is full of large, open spaces with plenty of room to walk. Although some of the sidewalks were under water today due to rain. There are several playgrounds and splash areas for kids. There are picnic areas with grills and tables,Free parking if you can find a spot.

Kelly ( — Google review

We visited in late March when it is chilly in the mornings but warms to 70’s in the afternoon, perfect time to visit these outdoor locations in Charleston. Flowers were starting bloom and spread through the park. There are two walkways one that is the pier and one the has elaborate homes, lined with huge oak trees. Several cute places to sit and watch the pier or to have a nice picnic. The fountain was beautiful.

Savanna H — Google review

AWESOOOOME! SUCH a gorgeous place to walk around and have a nice evening stroll. Beautiful fountains down here! And the boardwalk right next to the water…and the grove of trees is like walking through a tunnel. So beautiful, such a nice little pretty spot. If I lived in Charleston, I’d be down here every week! A MUST VISIT if you ever find yourself in historic Charleston! 👍👍

Dan T — Google review

This park is a great place to take a break from the touring and activity of the city proper. There was a lovely breeze and shade so it was refreshing. It is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy watching the sailboats in the harbor or the kids playing in the fountains.

Cris L — Google review

Wow. What a beautiful park. The fountains are the main attractions in the park other than the view of Fort Sumter. Great place for kids to dip themselves in the fountains on a hot summer day. Had sail boats floating by. Plenty of shady places to cool off while walking the surrounding area. The swings on the dock are the best. So much to do here. You won't regret giving this beautiful part of Charleston SC a gander. Will definitely be back for more.

Frankie R — Google review

Joe Riley Waterfront Park is an easy walk from King Street and City Market. This beautiful and pristine park overlooks the Charleston Harbor. Stop at the Pineapple Fountain, slip off your shoes, and wade in the water. Stroll along the tree-lined pathway and enjoy the beauty of Charleston.

Chris T — Google review

We had a beautiful day. October is a perfect time to visit. Nice place to take a break and rest. You can reflect, watch sail boats, and listen to street artists.

Laura M — Google review

If you are looking to take an early morning or late evening stroll, this is the perfect spot. There are plenty of benches if you want to grab a book to read, have a picnic, or just take in the scenery and enjoy nature.

Kevin G — Google review

This park is awesome, it's got the pineapple fountain you can put your feet in and it's also got the splash pad, there is the pier that is a must go to, it's where you can find the famous swings.

Trey . — Google review

Beautiful waterfront park in downtown Charleston. We got to see a cruise ship docked nearby. Perfect place to admire the fountains, sit on swings or benches and relax or visit with friends, have a picnic. Very nice park with water views. We enjoyed it.

Brandi W — Google review

Beautiful park for family and friends. It’s an easy walk from city market, plenty of spots for taking pictures and relaxing at the park . It has nice pier, fountains, eco rock, benches along the big trees etc. We enjoyed walking around and took some nice pictures here.

Chanchal — Google review

Wonderful waterfront park! We went end of March 2024 and there was a ton of construction which made getting there with a wheelchair a tough experience but once we did it was great! The paths were not very wheelchair friendly because roots had grown under the bricks (not unexpected) so I would suggest having someone assist a wheelchair user. We did see a dolphin on the peer! Swings were busy so we didn’t get to try those. Will return again in warmer months!

Sandy R — Google review

Beautiful park with two water fountains overlooking river, with lots of benches for your evening enjoyment.

Chanbo K — Google review

This place is really nice. Easy to spot dolphins. I saw a dolphin couple. We took a really nice walk. It's also really nice to rent a bike and ride. Pineapple fountain is also really beautiful.

Krishna S — Google review

Wow what a beautiful place to spend a few hours!! Beautiful sights and walkways! Lots of benches and places to sit & soak up some South Carolina sunshine also🌞

Callie P — Google review

Gorgeous park with lot of area to walk, sit and relax, take photos, etc. Loved going here with family and had an amazing time.

Jacks — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

25

Charleston City Market

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Market

Sights & Landmarks

The Charleston City Market, a market complex located in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, has a rich history dating back over 200 years. Spanning four blocks, this historic market offers a diverse array of food vendors and artisans selling various crafts such as sweetgrass baskets. The Market Hall, an architecturally significant building that faces Meeting Street, serves as the centerpiece of the market. Stretching from Market Hall to East Bay Street are a series of one-story market sheds that complete the complex.

I went to this beautiful gallery of art. I was told that Jonathan Green was one of the best artist in town. Great Customer Service. Willie was very nice, neat and charming. Great Prices too!!🙂

Tawana G — Google review

I loved visiting this market. It was fairly big for the area that it’s in. I was expecting a much smaller market and was pleasantly surprised. There was so much to see and buy. I bought some prints, little gifts, jewelry, candies and had to buy some of the beautiful grass woven art pieces. There is lots more to do outside of the market that is very close and I loved that aspect also. It was a tight squeeze but we went on a weekend so maybe it’s less crowded during the weekdays. You are going to love it, but pack your comfy shoes for sure.

JJ H — Google review

The City Market is a must-stop if you are visiting Charleston. This market is packed with all different types of vendors and artisans. The handmade straw baskets are works of art, and the paintings are breathtaking. Different vendors vary throughout the week, so stop in several times.

Chris T — Google review

Had a great time browsing all the very unique and interesting gifts offered by so many different vendors. Everyone was polite & friendly, the basket weavers even made a rose for our little one which made her day.

David W — Google review

Starting from the intersection of Meeting Street and Market Street then extending all the way to East Bay Street, the Charleston City Market is a renown location to buy a wide assortment of locally produced goods or at least from certified local vendors. During the day it serves predominantly as tourist market (but still nice) and there are, on certain evenings a Night Market where only locally produced goods are available. In both cases it is worth a visit if you are visiting as you are sure to find a nice memento of your visit here...and you'd be supporting a small local business. Enjoy!

Craig B — Google review

Absolutely a blast! My mom and I took a little weekend trip and were looking to do some shopping. Stumbled across the City Market and let me just say, you HAVE to come here at least once!! Easy parking in paid parking lots or public parking decks (not expensive). We found T-shirt shops, hats, bags, pottery, handmade items, magnets, candies/foods, etc.

Kristen M — Google review

Definitely a must see in Charleston. Although busier, it's probably better to go on a weekend when I would imagine more vendors would be out. But I am not exactly sure how that works. If you are really shopping, it probably takes about 2 hours to get through the entire market. There are plenty of public parking areas. The parking garage we parked at was $4 for 2 hours.

Jordan Y — Google review

A must see when you visit Charleston! Packed with something for everyone. I bought a book, a few pieces of art, and post cards. Very welcoming. I felt comfortable with my mask on. I would visit here again. From grits, to baskets, to art there is so much to see! Such a beautiful experience. Truly a place worth stopping and experiencing. You can find parking, there are lots and street parking. Also there is a lot of food in the area. Enjoy!

MJ W — Google review

This was my second time visiting the market while in the state. It was such a lovely time. So much beautiful art and good snacks! Of course, everything is surrounded by the beautiful city with so many different shops. The only downfall is the horse carriage rides, leaves horse poop in the ground in some areas with a fresh scent.I do recommend going during the week if you can, so it's a little busy.

Lauren L — Google review

We were looking for something to do before we had to head to the airport. This is an interesting market that has a huge variety of things to look at and shop. There are permanent stores and what appears to be less permanent stalls for local vendors. Most of it is in outdoor covered pavilions with one section indoors and air conditioned. It began to rain hard, which quickly flooded the streets. There were 7 to as much as 12 inches of water between the buildings. I had to take my shoes off and roll my pants up to escape. Would have like to see the whole thing. It was a very memorable experience.

Brent H — Google review

Love the Charleston City Market.There are a lot of interesting shops. Some are handmade items, too.Wide variety of artworks,spices, etc.The high ceiling with fans and long 2 buildings are impressive. There are also bathrooms.Walking down the shops is sure a nice experience. ...

Phia V — Google review

The Market is great and houses lots of great vendors both day and night with food, artifacts, art, jewelry, bags, clothing, and so much more. Lots of the items are handmade, especially at the night market. The market extends about 3 or more blocks and lots of great eating places and other stores around the market. You definitely want to visit the market! We did twice!! 😃

S M — Google review

Just steps from the port so best not to go when ships are visiting. Specialty foods and local crafts and kitschy souvenirs. Pick up a pack of benne wafers for a nice gift for friends.

Irene L — Google review

Marvelous public market in the middle of downtown Charleston. The place has different kind of vendors, from arts and crafts to local shoes designers. Even if you don’t buy anything, I encourage people to talk a walk inside to enjoy its architecture.

Arthur A — Google review

One of my top fave experiences while we were visiting Charleston. Really cool market with all sorts of local stuff to buy and eat. Also just fun to look around. They only have certain hours so make sure to check the site. We caught the tail end of the market so a lot of people were already packing up or gone already for the day. Still a unique experience to find touristy or less touristy m/more unique Charleston items. I bought some delicious pecans roasted in cinnamon sugar. I will say roads are really tight and smaller in this part of town so brace yourself and search for nearby parking.

Chelsea C — Google review

This is definitely a must stop, whether during the day or at night. My friend and I loved walking through the market and perusing all the local vendors and shops. We purchased a couple of gifts for ourselves and for others. I loved some of the unique jewelry and basket shops, and other items like the freeze dried skittles I couldn't quite understand. There's a plethora of things to buy!

Heidi M — Google review

The barn was very clean and smelt nice, and had bathrooms, which we were not expecting. It was easy and fast to get into the wagon as they tell everyone where to sit. We had Jordan, who was a very good coach horse and clearly knew the route. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw a lot of the beautiful back alleys and were told a lot of history.

Julie J — Google review

A great place for unique gifts and souvenirs from the Low Country. Authentic, hand made items by local craftsmen, garments, soaps, etc. Sweet grass baskets too. Parking is a bear or the other "B" word. Garages and lots can be $20/day. Place floods during a heavy rainstorm. Closes at 5 with vendors taking all their goods with them. A must see.

Steve T — Google review

Ok so it's getting an average review based on access and walking. Repeat of products and parking. Worth the shopping trip but if you have mobility issues just know it's going to be a challenge. The horse carriage is a mixed thoughts, really hard to get in for some, But such a nice way to hear stories and see the sights. Just wish they had a horses only lane .

Amy R — Google review

My husband and I shopped at Charelston City Market and we bought a beautiful ornament of a Charleston map, put on an oyster shell. It is so unique and beautiful. This wonderful lady sold it to us, she was so nice. I also bought a wallet to match my purse that I bought in Savannah, Georgia. There was so many things to choose from and I love what we bought. My husband also, bought me a beautiful bohemian cover-up with a brooch, it is also reversible.

Kelly W — Google review

This was my 2nd visit to Charleston City Marketplace. It's an open-air market with no walls and vendors lining either side of the aisles with all sorts of unique sweet grass baskets, jewelry, clothing, food, books and so much more. I purchased a very unique handmade cane with a silver metal handle for a friend at a very reasonable price. Also, I purchased several pieces of jewelry for gift giving and some sweet grass items. The vendors are generally very friendly and some are the artisans who created the items on display. Three blocks long with lots of parking nearby, both street and lot parking. Each time I've gone, I wish I had more room in my suitcase for additional items. Several restaurants surrounding the market, including Henry's with great food and ambiance, are either at the bar or table seating. There's also an area to get carriage rides within a block. Easy walking area and open 7 days a week.

Micki K — Google review

There seems to be something for everyone. Whether you are looking for handmade jewelry, accessories, candles, hats, fragrance, jellies, cookies, or Charlston themed souvenirs, I am sure you will enjoy your visit. Be sure to visit the numerous nearby shops and horse and carriage tours.

Mario M — Google review

Open air market with vendor booths amid centuries old buildings. Great walking / touring area. Close to waterfront and historical parks and buildings. I'm not much for markets, but the walk was very nice.

AccuSpect I — Google review

The market has so many booths with unique items - it took over three hours to see it all. I lucked out and went on the day of the Christmas tree lighting so there was a night market too. I went to the market in the morning and then again for the night market. A lot of different vendors set up for the night market. It wasn’t difficult to find a parking spot for either time. It was a lovely day and I bought many unique items from food items to baskets to jewelry.Side note: Be careful of the people outside the market trying to “gift” you with a handmade sea grass rose. They are relentless with demands for money. Just be prepared to pay if you accept the “gift”.

Suzanne S — Google review

This place is usually on the list of places to go and see on Trip Advisor and Google. I usually go to these to look for unique souvenirs and shot glasses. Yes, it’s a tourist trap and worth walking around to window shop. I didn’t buy anything because I didn’t see anything that interested me and the prices weren’t cheap. People were friendly. You’ll see some weaving baskets, jewelry, clothing, etc.

Nicholas P — Google review

Very cool, large market with lots of local vendors selling many different products. You could purchase belts, paintings, hats, handmade leaf baskets, and much more. We visited at least 2-3 times in our short stay. It was a bit pricey, but it's also a big tourist attraction so it makes sense. It wasn't too busy though, we were able to take our time and got a few souvenirs to bring back.

Caleb S — Google review

Cool market, lots of vendors and stuff to see and possibly buy. Watch out for the street folks peddling the grass roses though. This kid tried to get my elderly mom to give him money for a "basketball trip to Alpharetta". I told him no thanks and he cussed me out and walked off.

Destiny F — Google review

4.5

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4.0

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188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

(843) 937-0920

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26

Coligny Beach Park

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Park

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Coligny Beach Park is an oceanfront recreational area featuring well-maintained walking and biking paths, as well as amenities like Wi-Fi, swings, and the option to rent beach equipment. It is a popular destination for families as it is conveniently located near a playground and the Hilton Head Island Children's Museum. Locals also frequent Islanders Beach, where they can enjoy grilling facilities and picnic pavilions in addition to swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

I love this beach park. The trees are so beautiful and the water was so clear. They have lots of pine trees and the bright green leave plants. I also love that parking was easy, at least when we went in December. They also have bathrooms and showers.

Atche P — Google review

Free public access to the Atlantic Ocean in a Hilton Head Island, SC! Beautiful boardwalk bringing you into the heart of the park. Clean restrooms, rinse off area, changing rooms and lots of shaded seating stops. Wheel chair and scooter accessible mat also available. Beach with lifeguards is very clean with several umbrella chairs and prime seating for families enjoying the day at the beach. Would definitely return!

Elizabeth K — Google review

Beautiful beach with all amenities like washrooms, foot wash, changing rooms, showers, parking.Walk to the beach is a pathway with beautiful trees, you can take your carts along with beach chairs.During the day beach was quite jammed but when I went in the morning around 7am it was much less crowded and looking more peaceful and beautiful then the day.Water of the beach is very very salty so if you skin allergies take precautions.You get Chairs along with umbrella shed on rent but I did not take it so don’t know the rent.P.S- I would request to each of you reading the review not to leave your plastic cans/items near the beach( I saw many during the day visit). Also other request would be to minimize the use of plastic so that our oceans don’t get destroyed.

Arpita A — Google review

Wonderful beach! Very clean and well maintained. We loved the walk up to the beach. There is plenty of seating where you can just rest and admire the beauty of the park. Just a short ways from the main Coligny Beach Park entrance, there is tons of safe, free parking. People (tourists and locals) are very friendly and will guide you if you need help. We particularly loved the outdoor changing area because we visited the beach again on the day we had checked out of our hotel. We were able to let the kids get in the ocean and play in the sand, and then come and rinse off and change into dry clothes right at the park. This extended our trip and gave us another day to enjoy the beach as we still had a safe area to get dressed. The park is close to tons of restaurants and shops. Just leave your car in the free lot and go explore. It’s worth it!

Renita T — Google review

I live in Atlanta and don’t mind driving here because it’s clean, family-friendly, has free parking, and it really is beautiful. I love this beach! Lovely place to spend the day with my family

Nurse Y — Google review

We enjoyed walking the different shops around the plaza. There were many to choose from and there is something for everyone (even kids). Be forewarned, don't walk on an empty stomach because the eateries will starve you. There is a pirate ship play area that the kids enjoy. Certain times you'll hear the live music.It was a joy seeing my granddaughter having so much fun (her first beach visit) watching the gulls, jumping the waves as they rolled to shore, and building sand castles. The splash pad they have for the kids and the areas that lead to the beach are nice and well maintained. Restroom are clean. There are beach wheelchairs (should anyone need one) that you call to reserve so that it's easier to get them on the beach. The beach is very clean and there are trash bins to use if needed.If you have never been to HHI, Coligny Beach Park especially, do yourself a favor and make plans to go. Even if it's a day trip. The atmosphere is amazing for relaxing and everyone we met there was so friendly.

Bobbie F — Google review

Beautiful place, flat beach area, soft sand nice to walk in the area that close to the water, not crowded, there is clean station and toilets. Pretty nice and clean side walk. Ocean water is pretty cold right now. friendly wave all day long..

AnVe 2 — Google review

Cool beach, gets busy during hot days for swimming.Many people around so it's mostly safe.Nice sunrises over the Atlantic and decent sunsets.Oceans can be flat as pancake or have 4-5 foot choppers in the same day. High and low tides add about 20 yards to beach area.Fun place to people watch

M C — Google review

This was our first time coming here. Making our way to Florida. This park is actually really nice & convenient! So many wash off showers, bathrooms are decent, swings to sit down and chill. The beach sand was so nice, there was some trash here and there. The waters are warm!! I've never felt the waters that warm before. I recommend this park though, it's a nice place to take the family.

Katie K — Google review

FREE PARKING!HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE right down to the ocean! There are mats lining the path that wheelchairs can roll on easily.This place is stunning.Very little shells on the beach. It's nice to see a city put so much into public access. Restrooms, showers, water faucets and more! The water was good and cold from the fountain which is a surprise.The sunrise was pretty even if that one cloud blocked it a little.Plenty of restaurants within walking distance too!

Ray S — Google review

It's a nice beach area but a lot of small jelly fish everywhere. From what I learned, they don't sting they just get washed up during high tide. The beach was crowded and the people were not very friendly, especially the lifeguards. Of course, there's no place to sit unless you want to pay for it, so bring your own chairs. It's more of an expensive tourist area that people like to go hotels all around you, hence all the people. There is plenty of parking but plan on walking a bit. It's a nice beach, but I don't plan on going back anytime soon. There are some shops and restaurants nearby if you want to shop and eat. There's a nice park area with a big playground and a big field for the kids to play on. There is an area where you can hear music during the summer months.

Ingrid H — Google review

A good beach access point for the public. It has all the necessary after beach clean up facilities. The restrooms were kept as clean as possible for a public restroom. There was good enough sanitations. The park had several shops and restaurants which were unfortunately all closed as I visited on Christmas day.

Abhish A — Google review

Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island is a must-visit destination for both solo travelers and families alike, the boardwalk leading to the expansive beach offers an intoxicating blend of natural beauty and modern convenience.The crown jewels of this picturesque location are the enormous live oaks that shade the park's well-maintained boardwalk that transforms the park into a cool retreat even in the peak summer heat. They're not just functional – these age-old guardians of the island possess a rustic beauty that adds a unique charm to the landscape.The park's splash pads are a real delight, particularly for children. A fine mist keeps visitors cool under the South Carolinian sun, adding an element of fun to the soothing serenity of the beach. The area is kept clean and is perfectly safe, making it an ideal spot for families to create lasting memories.Adding to the park's tranquility are the numerous swings scattered throughout the park. There's nothing quite as relaxing as swinging gently under the protective canopy of the oaks, enjoying the soft sea breeze and the hypnotic rhythm of the nearby ocean waves.Coligny Beach Park is a harmonious blend of leisure and nature.

Lisa M — Google review

Best beach to spend an afternoon with friends. Very clean beach. Found sand dollars and starfish. Life guards and helicopter kept eyes on water for any potential threat of sharks. Warnings were given and everyone had to get out of the water. It was about 30 minutes. Then the all clear was given. Clean bathrooms. Definitely my favorite beach!

Spedrock W — Google review

Beautiful beach, easy access and lovely rest area with water spigots to wash off your feet as well as showers to rinse off completely. Could use more parking but there isn't anywhere to add it - plus, it's walkable from many of the condos nearby. The sand was perfect and waterntemp was cold but bearable for an October sunrise.

Patricia B — Google review

My family comes to this beach often throughout the year. Off seasons are always the best when there are not as many people. There is a splash pad which is seasonal. Restrooms, bench swings, and places to rinse sand off. It's a more family friendly area. Our toddler loves to play in the tide pools if they are there. We did find a sand dollar once in one of the tide pools. I love that you can rent wheelchairs designed for the beach if you need them. At times you will see the coast guard helicopter making their rounds. There may or may not be a lifeguard, seems they are out during peak season. Two downsides is that at times finding a parking spot can be so difficult with the amount of people and secondly the walk from the parking lot to the beach can be very long. Parking is free FYI and there is a park near the far end of the parking lot. People do bring dogs. You may see pelicans, sand pipers and jellyfish.

Melody O — Google review

Out of all my visits to this magnificent island, I never once had been to this beach access in Coligny Plaza, as I always have beach access inside Sea Pines, so I decided to try something new. What sort of local guide would I be if I didn't?As far as the actual beachline goes, it's a beach, so everything there was what I expected it to be, but as far as the entrance, it was well-maintained and there were enough restrooms around! The beach itself also extends quite largely, so there's plenty of room for everyone!

beastlycharizard13 — Google review

Beautiful beach. Can get crowded in the summer for sure. These pics were from 7:00 a.m. walking on the beach. Coligny area is a great place for family and fun. Lots to do

Sheri W — Google review

Looks like a well maintained area, clean with restrooms, showers, swings, and short easy walk to the beach. parking upfront was easy to find as we went during winter. Parking was free. We didn't stay for very long but enjoyed the area quite a lot..there is shopping nearly and restaurants too. We saw lot of people with dogs too.

Sanjeeta P — Google review

Great beach with a lot of space to set up chairs, blankets or whatever. A lot of walkable or bikeable stores and restaurants close by. Stations to wash off feet, showers and bathrooms. There is a wheelchair accessible mat at the entrance that brings you to the beach as well as beach wheelchairs you can borrow for free.

Hannah M — Google review

This place is really nice. The beach is usually very clean and well maintained. Has a nice long wide mat that makes it easy to get through the soft sand. There are some nice shops and places to eat. All of which are within walking distance from the beach and where you park. Definitely recommend coming here. FYI It does get crazy busy during tourist season

John — Google review

Coligny Beach is a high quality spot with nice facilities, including restrooms and changing cabanas. It’s a great walking beach, especially at sunrise. You can rent chairs and umbrellas ‘in season’. There is plenty of parking nearby.

Keith M — Google review

A beautiful park with lovely bench swings on the walkway to the beach. We were there in December and the temps were in the mid 50s. It was warm on the swings and cooler on the beach, where it was windy. If you dress for the wind it is a beautiful walk along the beach and not very crowded this time.if year.

Hadassa 1 — Google review

The first time I had been there and it was very clean. It had a lot of added family touches. Share toys and clean up area for the beach. The changing rooms and the restrooms were very clean. I loved the porch swings as well.

Dustie B — Google review

Love the fact if you are in a wheelchair you can go and see the beach with no problem. Also if you have a hard time walking in the sand they have a cover over the sand in which makes it easier to get there. The cover doesn't get hot either.

MeLinda R — Google review

4.7

(9689)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (230)

4.5

(3680)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (231)

1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA

(843) 342-4580

27

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

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Catholic cathedral

Sights & Landmarks

The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a neo-gothic Catholic church with elaborate stained glass windows, and music recitals are often held there. It was almost entirely destroyed by a fire in 1898, but was rebuilt the next year and restored to its former glory.

In the heart of Savannah's historic neighborhood, a really well historic church. Some of the stained glass windows are quite lovely. Beautifully constructed church. The church is well-maintained and has a large seating capacity. In Savannah, there is a spot you should go. This church is both cold and peaceful, making it ideal for prayer. It's free to walk in with a suggested donation of $3. The photographs do not do it justice, and the rush of emotion I felt as I went in was unrivaled.

Nitish D — Google review

Stunning architecture in the middle of Historic Savannah. Well-kept grounds and interior pristine. One of the beautiful places to visit that should be added to your list.

M — Google review

It was hard to capture how beautiful this church is. We just don't have historical places like this on the West Coast, so I was in awe. I grew up Catholic, so it brought back comforting memories. I lit a candle and sat in the wood pew to take in the sights, smells, and the beautiful colors of the stained glass with the sun shining through them. I love how they allow the public to come into the church to look around during times when they aren't having mass.

Tammy S — Google review

Historical cathedral with a beautiful stained glass windows and expansive alter. It’s a suggested $3 donation to go in. They offered a free tour where the presenter explained the cathedral’s history and pointed out some interesting features. It took about 20 minutes overall and was very informative. It is an active church so do be mindful about people praying. I would recommend coming here for a first-timer to Savannah and spending half an hour!

Shanelle S — Google review

If you've never experienced such an amazing and heavenly place, then you should come here. It is amazing, and the artwork was breathtaking! Even if you are not Catholic, it is wonderful, and it is totally free they only ask for donations. Also, they still have services there as well! I loved this place, and so did my grandkids they were amazed at the grandeur of the church. Now, you might not want to bring kids who are a bit loud, for it needs to be quiet. It's still a church, after all. But really and truly amazing.

Tenita W — Google review

This Cathedral is Massive and absolutely STUNNING!! 100% worth the stop! They have visiting hours so that you can actually go inside and tour the area and take photos of all of the beautiful stained glass. Beware though: there is no public restroom.

Honor W — Google review

There are no words good enough to describe this experience... a must see to know!! The outside is spectacular, but the inside is miraculous! Your mere presence is altered by the surroundings as you sit in reverence!!!

Michael V — Google review

The guard at the entrance made me feel right at home; he's such a friendly person. Stepping inside feels like entering another dimension, with so much to explore and observe. It's history at its finest, and the architecture is truly breathtaking.

Janet N — Google review

This Cathedral is stunning. I was here for Mass on Mother's Day, and I was in awe of everything, the liturgy, the music, the atmosphere. The church was decorated with I don't even know how many dozens of roses, giant roses. The choir sounded celestial. The bishop celebrated the Mass - and delivered a wonderful homily. The windows are stunning, especially the Ascension and Immaculate Conception windows. I am a little perplexed by the lack of wounds visible on Christ's hands, but a gorgeous image. As usual, so many details. I especially liked the "Communion of Saints" images around the ceiling.

Nicholas P — Google review

Beautiful place. Hard to imagine the hours of work in all of the intricate details throughout. Soaring ceilings, beautiful stained glass and extremely detailed carvings throughout. If there is a red sign out front that says worship in process - not the time to go. Usually between 12:30 - 4:30 on weekdays is ideal to visit.

James P — Google review

The cathedral was beautiful! We were there about 20 to 30 min before a service and there was a lady in the back of the church yelling at anyone that wanted to take pictures. I absolutely get it and was respectful and didn't make a peep. Apparently, the cut off walking around the church and taking pictures 30 min before services.... so plan accordingly! I was able to snap a few when she was yelling at others.🙂 It's absolutely worth the trip to see!

Lynne L — Google review

OH MY GOODNESS! This is GORGEOUS! No matter your beliefs, you should check out this BEAUTIFUL cathedral! The architecture is breathtaking and well, just go see for yourself. 💕I remember thinking it's donation only.

Jessi — Google review

Absolutely Breathtaking.Eye candy for the soul.No matter what religion you are, the beauty inside is undeniable, the energy is peaceful and employees are knowledgeable and willing to share.Definitely take the opportunity to venture inside if they have the doors open.I've been there 3 times to view and appreciate the outside, but this time was the first time I was able to enter.It was worth every moment spent there.It is free, but there is a sign asking for donations.

Laura L — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous. The sanctuary is beautifully detailed. One gets the feeling of a sacred, holy place upon entering. We stayed for the historical lecture which was very informative and interesting.

Bill T — Google review

One of the best St Patrick's Day parades I've ever been to....the floats went on and on and on. Some very talented musicians, dancers, various local organizations represented.Didnt get into the Cathedral but was perched outside on the bleachers stands for a great viewing position.

Alan A — Google review

A must see if you’re in this town, a true piece of history. This Cathedral is absolutely massive in size and so beautiful. The stained glass is gorgeous and so detailed. The wood work is stunning with an insane organ. A very unique place to visit.

Aaron B — Google review

Came here on St Patrick's Day. It is one of the biggest churches is Savannah. The church architecture is so beautiful.The vibe is peaceful and calming. You'll keep admiring the beautiful glass windows and sculptures here.Please be respectful while taking photos though.

Bhushan — Google review

We always visit this breathtaking cathedral when visiting Savannah. Make it a must-see when you are there! The history and beauty are worth the visit.

Lana W — Google review

Always beautiful but extra special at Christmas. The Nativity is impressive! The stained glass, steeples and wood carvings are hypnotizing. Just gorgeous! A must see when visiting Savannah.

Jessica — Google review

The church was beautiful. They asked for a donation but it was not required. To light a candle for a prayer that you had a donation request. I give it a 4 only because in my opinion there is historical importance to the building and some information would have been helpful. Not sure any takes note but the would on Jesus switches sides from one window to the next. Guessing those windows are expensive! It’s all. About the details! Lol

Brian L — Google review

Beautiful, beautiful church! I felt like I stepped into a church in Europe! One of the prettiest sights in Savannah!

Atasha J — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous and free although they do take donations. Friendly staff. We went at Christmas and there was a gigantic very detailed nativity scene which was very impressive. I bought a Christmas ornament there with many choices of the stained glass pieces in the church. The organ was specifically made for this church and is a sight to see. Check times before you go because they do shut it down during services.

Kate M — Google review

Beautiful cathedral that has endured for such a long time. Went to their Christmas service that was very packed . As huge as it was, people still had to stand in the back. I come to this place almost every year to just enjoy the decorations and ceremony. A must see for anyone .

Joe S — Google review

Es una bella joya de la arquitectura!Se siente una paz impresionante al caminar por sus pasillos.Sus vitrales, sus pinturas y sus diseños remontan la majestuosidad, belleza y la grandeza expresión humana.(Translated by Google)It is a beautiful jewel of architecture!You feel an impressive peace when walking through its corridors.Its stained glass windows, its paintings and its designs trace the majesty, beauty and greatness of human expression.

Arturo G — Google review

4.8

(5936)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (238)

5.0

(9826)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (239)

222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

(912) 233-4709

28

Savannah Historic District

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Historical place

Sights & Landmarks

The Savannah Historic District is an area of the city of Savannah that was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. It is one of the largest urban historic districts in the United States, and it contains a wide variety of architecture from the 18th century through to the early 20th century.

We had some time to check out this historic district in Savannah while staying near bye for a conference. The homes here are historic and the architecture is very nice. My favourite part of this historic district was Forsyth Park and the fountain there as well as the Spanish moss trees all over. The park is a nice place to walk around as well as the area as we walked everywhere.After seeing the homes and Forsyth Park we enjoyed River Street where there’s lots of restaurants and bars to enjoy something to eat and walk along the river where there were vendors selling things. I would definitely come back if ever in the Savannah, Hilton head area again

Donald H — Google review

I visited the Savannah Historic District last summer and had a wonderful time! It is such a beautiful area with a plethora of options for food, shopping, and entertainment. Many of the roads or paths I encountered were brick or cobblestone, which are beautiful but can pose issue to those who use wheelchairs or a blind person using a cane. Overall though, the brick walkways were very well kept and didn't seem to pose much of a risk at the time of my visit and there was not a lot of cobblestone. The main roads are paved. There is an area by the riverfront that utilizes a fair amount of stairs spread out, so if someone is in a wheelchair there will need to be a bit of a re-route to get to that specific area of the riverfront. It is a very lively and fun area with a lot of music and lights which is very fun, but if you are someone who struggles with sound sensitivity I would suggest bringing earplugs or your choice of aid to help damped that. Overall, a beautiful, must see area in my opinion, and has few inaccessible areas from my point of view in my visit.

Cada S — Google review

My favorite place to escape on a long weekend. River Street is vibrant and full of arts, music, tons of little shops and bars/restaurants. The Squares in downtown Savannah are beautiful, historic and so green. If you've never been, I recommend a trolley tour to see the highlights. Then go on foot and find the little treasures of shops, art, food and entertainment.

Misty L — Google review

Did trolley tours with two different tour companies; two different days (Thursday and Monday) and experienced many different guides and saw wonderful landmarks. If your a tourist visiting Savanah historic district I highly recommend using a trolley tour. There is so much to see and hear about.

Jherie L — Google review

What a beautiful city steeped with so much history. We took a 90 minute tour with Old Savannah tours (our tour guide was Hampton- he was fantastic). This is a place we definitely need to come back and spend some time in but if you've got 90 minutes to spare, you should make the detour!

Tanya H — Google review

I'm a huge history buff. The wealth of information and history here was worth the visit alone. Everyone must go to Savannah at least once in a lifetime.

Stephanie W — Google review

Good experience to ride the trolley down town and take the tour around the historic area. We also stopped for food at Spankys on the river. It was a great experience and the gift shops were reasonably priced

Danyetta B — Google review

We had a great time visiting the historic district. Many beautiful ancient buildings (build in 19th century) with great architecture, good parks, famous restaurants, beautiful tree tunnel, good river walk, museums, greenery and finally Church with beautiful architecture are the specialities of historic district. If you are visiting for one day, we recommend using old Town trolley tours of Savannah. Based on our experience this trolley service runs at good frequency and have hope off and on facility at major tourist attractions. For an extensive tour, a 2 day visit is needed for covering all the places. If you are coming by car, one major problem will be parking availability.

Siju J — Google review

Great place to spend a beautiful day walking and taking photos.With dozens of shops and restaurants to keep anyone entertained. LotTo do lot to see.

Frank I — Google review

Savannah has a great town with lots of interesting history. We enjoy walking around for a couple hours seeing all the amazing homes and parks/plazas.

Tim S — Google review

First time visitor. Two days is not enough to experience all the district has to offer. Lots of. Museums and Art Galleries. The history and architecture is amazing. Take the trolley to get an idea of where you want to spend more time. The trolley operators can be fun and entertaining.

Alex B — Google review

Savannah's spirit is delightful. In each square and around every corner there is a unique experience. Take a quick glance at the city plan then just walk and explore N-S along Bull street and E-W on River Street, Broughton, Oglethorpe, .... all the way to Forsyth Park. The city is dotted with attractions ranging from historic jems to contemporary art galleries and inspiring architectural renovations. Savannah offers a first class experiences in all seasons, no need to wait for popular events or festivities. Just stop by for a day or a few and enjoy hospitality in this energetic southern bell.

E A — Google review

So many preserved homes of a wide variety of styles and colors in old growth tree lined streets. Wear comfy shoes!

Michael W — Google review

Walk the River than take the Old Town Trolly tour ride around once than hop off & on at any stop our tour guide Sam was great! We Ubered to waterfront cheaper than trying to park. If planning and you want to stay waterfront book in advance.

Karen M — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous. Great walking city. Just watch where you walk cobblestones will trip ya!

Brittney P — Google review

Went for a girl's trip & stayed at the Marshall House! It is Gorgeous! We also went on a tour where we learned about the history of this beautiful area & how everything came about! The driver & his crew were very nice & knowledgeable! They made the tour exciting!! In conclusion, I recommend seeing this Beautiful part of GA. Too amazingly gorgeous to miss.

Mandy B — Google review

Such a fun place to explore! Cute squares of greenery and churches and historic houses. We spent a day here and thoroughly enjoyed.

Limia H — Google review

Visited savannah for the first time. Two days are not enough to explore the place. It has got a lot of options and it’s really well developed ❤️Savannah is known for its real life greenery and ghosts but I didn’t found any so far 😂Love the placeSmall sweet and live

Heema P — Google review

This was my first visit to historic Savannah. I only stayed two days, but I had a good time. I used a company called Kelly Tours to get an overview of Savannah. They take everyone through a 90-minute tour first. We had an excellent guide. Then you pick where you want to next. For example, you could call and say I'm at stop 9, I would like to go to stop 5. I called them three times. Each time, it took less than 5 minutes for them to get to me. Some stops were about a 10 minute walk, the weather was nice so I walked some. I feel like I saved so much time, and I saw everything that I wanted to see. I didn't get a lot of good pictures because there are lots of trees and greenspace.

Beverly ( — Google review

Most site seeing places are entry free, on the river Bank side there was a fireworks 🎆 display for good 20-25 minutes ard 10pm it gets included under Destination fees with ur hotel booking.

Navzy P — Google review

4.8

(5915)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (244)

5.0

(14398)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (245)

301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

(912) 944-0455

29

Fort Clinch State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Fort Clinch State Park is a large Florida state park that includes the Fort Clinch, built in 1847 after the end of the Second Seminole War. The park features 1,400 acres of natural Florida wildlife and coastal land with trails to explore below the canopy.

This park and the Fort are very nice. This was my first time visiting Amelia island and Fernandina beach. It cost $6 to get in the park and another $3 to enter the fort.You do a self guided tour of the fort. There are cannons there on the top of the fort walls. The buildings have been restored so you can see how this fort was lived in and used to defend the island.If you are in the area visit this fort. I did not get to see the park, but it sure looked pretty.

V B — Google review

I Absolutely Love This State Park! Well Maintained and Clean. The Staff are Amazing... Friendly and Happy to Talk about the History of the Fort. The Fort is a Must See and the Beach is So Beautiful. Can't wait to come back when i have more time and walk the long trail. Definitely a must see if you are in the area!

Anita W — Google review

Went to this park for the first time recently and it is a great park. There are some amazing beaches with nice easy access as well as the first itself. There are also many campsites for both campers and tents however I didn’t camp overnight so couldn’t speak to the overnight accommodations. As for the fort, it’s definitely worth checking out. I’ve been to several historic forts in Florida and this was definitely my favorite. It’s very in tact compared to what I expected after seeing others.

Matt R — Google review

Absolutely love camping here when we can get a spot. It doesn’t matter if you are in the river campground or the beach campground, they are both very close to the beach. Only electric and water at each campsite but the dump station is easily accessible and is not next to any RV sites.Very clean restrooms that are cleaned daily with bleach. Good ventilation so the floors dry. Campground hosts available for any issues.

Susan B — Google review

This was our first time to visit this place. The entrance was very cheap to go in and the site was very interesting. Most areas of the fort can be accessed by the public. They keep on restoring the original site and I can't wait to go back and see you when it's fully done. I think 42 adults and 2 children it costs us about 20 to $25. I recommend checking this place out because it's a good part of American history. There are restrooms at the visitors center only.

Erastos E — Google review

If you were a fan of history this is a must visit. Usually the line of cars waiting to get in are heading to the beach and not to the fort. So you can have a great day out with the family at an attraction like this without the crowds. And then when you’re done it’s a short walk over to the beach. Facilities are limited bring your own picnic lunch and water

Peter T — Google review

This state park is gorgeous. The beach is gorgeous, pristine, and has TONS of shells. The fort is amazing to explore and walk through, and their prices are extremely reasonable. We spent hours here and enjoyed all of it. The fort can take hours to explore, and we spent hours walking the beach and collecting shells. I would visit again in a heartbeat and hope to the next time we make a trip down this way. The restrooms were nice and clean, and the gift shop had great prices. I absolutely loved the fort and being able to walk around in it freely. There are some areas not allowed to be explored, but most of it is, and it's so worth the stop. We stopped as it was the first beach in Florida on our way down, and our daughter wanted to see the ocean for the first time. I'm so glad we made the choice to stop here.

Rachel B — Google review

We absolutely loved our experience here. We really enjoyed getting to explore the Fort inside and out. The Fort had some really neat brickwork and architecture. There were SO many great photo opportunities! We hunted for shark teeth on the beach by the fort but we didnt find any. We took the smaller nature trail (Willow Trail) and it was very nice and and easy walk. The Egan's look out was nice as well. It's a beautiful 3 mile drive from the gate to the fort. We highly recommend the Fort and park in general for an inexpensive nice day of exploring! It costs $6 to enter the park and $2.50 per person for the Fort. Well worth it!!!

Rachael S — Google review

The drive in is absolutely gorgeous, canopied oaks with deer peeking out. The fort itself is a very cool piece of history. Standing beside some of those gun batteries does not make you envious of an assaulting force. Multiple jetties to fish and a ton of coastline battered with shells by the raging Atlantic. The hiking and biking trails are well cut and easy to share, I was on foot this trip. Not far from here you can drive on the beach, in a much more relaxed environment than Daytona ever is. Really. Great facilities, as most of Florida’s State Parks do. Will definitely be a return trip someday!

Walt W — Google review

One awesome experience. Probably my favorite of the 3 forts we have here in NE Florida. It's not only larger then both Castillo in St Augustine and Matanzas, but also located at a beach which you have access to. The barracks are in great conditions and the staff are dressed for the period, and are very knowledgeable. Great views from the Fort and cannons. You can see the FL/GA line too as GA is on the other side of the water. Its really affordable too, at around 2.50 entry per person plus the park charges $5 per vehicle to enter the park. Check the hours as the park stays open later than Fort.

Igor V — Google review

This state park is a wonderful and vast state park that everyone should be sure to visit. It is a long beautiful drive in with smaller access roads breaking from man road leading to campsites and trail heads. At the end of the road there is Fort Clinch. The fort is well maintained with nice bathrooms in the front, a small gift shop where souvenirs or camping needs can be purchased. The fort is an additional charge to visit.

CMB C — Google review

Very easy access and an informative self guided tour. The grounds are immaculately taken care of. The gift shop has a well stocked selection of very affordable items. This is a must visit location when visiting Amelia Island.

Terri A — Google review

Had an absolute blast visiting here. The drive from the entrance to the Fort was an absolute beautiful path through what felt like untouched woods. The staff and the volunteers at the Fort were friendly, informative, and fun. Views were beautiful and the history was interesting.

David W — Google review

I love this park! So much to do! Nature trails, the fort, the beach etc The scenery is so beautiful and we even saw some deer the other evening while headed to the East access beach! Great for finding seashells! One of the best spots for shells I've found yet! Found 2 sand dollars and a bunch of conchs!!

Vanessa M — Google review

One of the best fort museums I have been to. It's 6 bucks to get a car into the park and another $2.50 per person for the fort. The museum is small but informative. What makes this fort so great is pretty much everything is open to the public. Some rooms were blocked off but you could climb the bastions or walk the walls. Barracks spaces and office spaces were open, too. The view is also spectacular. And once you are done, you are just minutes from a beach to hang out on.

Shaun K — Google review

We stayed beachside in spot #9. This park is absolutely beautiful. Deer, tortoises, birds, and amazing sunsets. Park was very well kept with clean facilities throughout. Super impressed!

Jennifer C — Google review

I am a giant history buff and I usually love places like this but it's a big NO for me. DEFINITELY HAUNTED. 💯 my husband and I were so uncomfortable by the paranormal feelings we were experiencing we had to leave. As we were leaving I did some research and apparently it's one of the most well known haunted places in the area (not advertised that way!!) We had our boys with us ages 2 and 6 and it was absolutely NOT SAFE for them.

Serenity S — Google review

My family absolutely loves Fort Clinch.I wouldn’t recommend going in the summer because it’s insanely hot but if you can go in the fall it’s an amazing day trip! You can walk around the beach, there’s a small kids park and there are so many different nooks and crannies to discover in the fort. And if you’re there on a reenactment day it’s so exciting. We also started the junior ranger program for our kids on this trip and they were able to obtain Fort Clinch patches.

Ashley M — Google review

Great state park to go camp at. Though if you go during the summer, I recommend camping in the River loop because there is hardly any shade on the beach loop, though being a telescope if you are by the beach, some good night star viewing. The fort itself is also very worth the visit to learn about weapons and history of fort life, they also do a number of reenactments every month so check the calender, they'll demonstrate firing of the weapons including a cannon. Also take some time to bike or walk the nature trails and beaches, as they provide a chance for some solitude and reflection

Victor A — Google review

This park is gorgeous! From towering dunes to ancient oak trees to a historical fort, it is an incredibly diverse location with rich natural resources and broad appeal. As a birder, I was excited to have a variety of preserved habitats. The marshy overlook had great shorebirds and the extensive hardwood canopy was a sure bet for warblers and other passerines. The shoreline was great for seabirds, shorebirds and sharks’ teeth. There is a narrow multi-use path for bicyclists and pedestrians that runs through the park. During our visit, we only used small stretches of the path to access some of the views, but it looked amazing. The only negative is that this place gets packed, and during peak times, closes to new visitors to limit capacity. There seems to be a lot of zippy traffic on the road and I could never figure out why people are in such a hurry when there is so much beauty even on the main road. If you’re in the area and are a nature lover, this should definitely be on your list!

Stephanie P — Google review

I love this place so much. The wooded, moss-covered drive to the fort is breathtaking, and the fort itself is absolutely gorgeous and so well-kept! The history is fascinating, and the views are amazing. Kids and adults alike will enjoy Fort Clinch!

Jenny L — Google review

Sublime and relaxing. Canopy of trees with Spanish Moss and Palmetto everywhere. Facilities include bright and clean bathrooms with shower stalls, washers and dryers ($2 per load) The fort is a major draw and the river has sandy beach along its shoreline. Plenty of hiking trails. A bike is a good have as the place is huge.

Liston B — Google review

This fort was built strong and proud. Those who served here had amenities and thoughtful fort design to live a pretty nice life. Absolutely worth visiting. The drive into the fort was beautiful. Great lighthouse nearby.

Tamara Z — Google review

It's a very nice park with several RV camping area and ALOT of shoreline to walk through. There's also Ft Clinch, which is still standing and in fairly good shape. The beach areas were very nice. There's a small gift shop that is surprisingly well stocked. My wife and I enjoyed our visit there!

Peter P — Google review

Wonderful time visiting this fort with our family. Highly recommend this historical site for a visit as the views overlooking the ocean is amazing. Lots of artifacts and history to see and learn.

Blue T — Google review

My husband and I, always eager for a daytime adventure, found ourselves drawn to Fort Clinch State Park during our stay in Amelia Island. We had driven past it a few times and curiosity got the better of us - a decision we’re now incredibly grateful for. The park not only offered excellent campgrounds but also revealed itself to be a historic gem.Upon entering, we were immediately struck by how well-preserved the fort is. It’s like stepping into a different era. The museum-like demonstrations are exceptionally well done. We explored the sleeping quarters, kitchens, latrines, jailhouse, storage areas, and even a store and steelworks. Also several real life artillery and cannons were on display. Each section was an insightful glimpse into the past, making it easy to imagine life during those times. The attention to detail in these demonstrations was remarkable, offering a vivid and educational experience.The most captivating aspect of Fort Clinch is how it immerses you in history. It’s not just about seeing; it’s about feeling the past around you. We spent hours wandering through the grounds, absorbing every detail, and left with a newfound appreciation for the history of the area.Our visit to Fort Clinch has inspired us to plan a camping trip there on our next visit to Amelia Island. The thought of spending a night under the stars, surrounded by such rich history, is thrilling. We highly recommend Fort Clinch to anyone visiting Amelia Island, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a unique way to spend your day. It’s a must-visit destination that offers a perfect blend of education, nature, and adventure.

Ladybug N — Google review

The park was great to ride our bicycles around. We also went to thevactual Fort at this state park. They had bicycle racks there too. My husband said this was the best fort that made him feel like you could be right there with the soldiers. Very well maintained! Canons overlooking the water. Bunk house with gun rack at the end of the beds for soldiers to put their weapons. Kitchen was set up with huge pots, cooking utensils of the day. Well worth the price of admission!

C. E — Google review

Must see while visiting Fernandina Beach. Spectacular and amazing site to see. Very well kept and clean! The park entrance fee is $6 per car and the Fort Clinch entrance fee is $2.50 per person. Very much worth the cost. You are able to access most of the buildings on the fort. I was surprised how open and accessible it was.

Sandi — Google review

This was a nice sized fort. It had a lot of cool buildings with what felt like secret passageways. Lots to explore here. If you are on Amelia Island, it's a great place to check out.

Laura H — Google review

The fort and the park are both stunning! Breathtaking views, incredible natural wildlife, and cooling breezes. Mom and I had a blast, learned a lot of history, saw a gator in the Willow Pond trail area (in the water, away from us!), and I even found multiple shark teeth on the beach of the East inlet. 🦈Excellent location for solo travelers or families of all ages and sizes. Many people driving, camping, hiking, and biking. Also saw multiple people with their pets or children in strollers/wagons.

Kitty M — Google review

4.8

(4848)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (251)

4.5

(3653)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (252)

2601 Atlantic Ave, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034, USA

(904) 277-7274

30

Disney's Boardwalk Resort

40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (253)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (254)

40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (255)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (256)

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Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Piers & Boardwalks

Disney's Boardwalk Resort is a hotel and entertainment complex designed to resemble the classic boardwalks of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy various dining options, including seafood at the upscale Flying Fish restaurant, which can be quite costly. The resort offers a holiday atmosphere and Florida expert Debs recommends visiting in the evening to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.

4.5

(2830)40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (257)

2101 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Orlando, FL 32830, USA

40 Best Stops Between Philadelphia and Cocoa Beach (2024)
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