The New York Times
6 Beaches With Refreshingly Cool Water
In this sweltering summer, a cool dip might be just what you need. Here are beaches where the water will help you beat the heat.
Lonely PlanetAug 26
The Best Día de Muertos Celebrations in the United States
You don
25 things in this story
- Sherman Heights Community CenterSighthosts a Día de los Muertos celebration
- Old Town San DiegoNeighborhoodcelebrations centered on the mercado with altars and contests
- Elsewhere
- Indian Pueblo KitchenRestaurantAlbuquerque, United Statessample Indigenous New Mexican cooking
- National Museum of Mexican ArtMuseumChicago, United StatesIt is located in Harrison Park in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois.
- Olvera StreetNeighborhoodLos Angeles, United Statescelebrates with community altars, face painting, costumed performances
- Hollywood Forever CemeterySightLos Angeles, United StatesIt is one of the oldest cemeteries in Los Angeles, California and is located at 6000 Santa Monica…
- Día de los Muertos XicágoFestivalChicago, United Statestakes place in the museum and surrounding outdoor areas
- Harrison ParkParkChicago, United Statespart of the outdoor area for Día de los Muertos Xicágo
- Día de Muertos Love Never Dies BallFestivalChicago, United Statesfeatures live music, silent auction, and food
- Little VillageQuarterChicago, United Statesshops full of Mexican essentials, street art, enticing food smells
- Mi Tierra Cafe y PanaderiaRestaurantSan Antonio, United Statesopen since 1941 for authentic Mexican food
- Muertos FestFestivalSan Antonio, United Statesfeatures altars, live music, workshops, and dance performances
- Guadalupe Cultural Art CenterMuseumSan Antonio, United Stateslearn more about San Antonio's Mexican heritage
- Mission DistrictNeighborhoodSan Francisco, United Stateskey hub for the city's Mexican population
- Festival of AltarsFestivalSan Francisco, United Statesfree annual event with a big procession
- Potrero Del Sol ParkParkSan Francisco, United Stateslocation for the Festival of Altars
- SOMArts cultural centerMuseumSan Francisco, United Stateshosts special exhibitions
- San Francisco Symphony OrchestraPlaceSan Francisco, United Stateshosts a themed concert
- Mission Cultural Center for Latino ArtsArts centreSan Francisco, United Statespreviously ran Día de Muertos events
- Mercado HidalgoMarketTijuana, Mexicovivid celebrations in Tijuana
- Muertos y Marigolds ParadeFestivalAlbuquerque, United Statescelebration of life, memories, tradition, and marigolds
- Marigold MileSightAlbuquerque, United Statesthousands of marigolds decorating historic structures
- Mano a ManoPlaceNew York, United Statesnonprofit celebrating Mexican culture, hosts multi-day events
- St. Mark's Church in-the-BowerySightNew York, United StatesThe property has been the site of continuous Christian worship since the mid-17th century, making it New York City's…
- Hispanic Society Museum & LibraryMuseumNew York, United States
Condé Nast TravelerAug 10
Where to Stay—or Staycation—in San Diego With Kids
From dive-in movies to horseback adventures, these kid-friendly hotels make it easy to visit America’s Finest City.
25 things in this story
- Cabrillo National MonumentNature reservetake in sights from here
- Point LomaSuburbnear property
- Mission BayNeighborhood27 miles of shoreline
- Balboa ParkParkgardens, playgrounds, and open spaces
- San Diego ZooZooIt began with a collection of animals left over from the 1915 Panama–California Exposition that were brought together…
- Fairmont Grand Del MarHotelAAA Five Diamond property with six restaurants
- Addison by William BradleyRestaurantthree-Michelin-starred dining
- Grand SocialRestaurantfamily-friendly dining
- Explorers ClubPlacekids club for ages 5-12
- Town and Country ResortHotelmidcentury jewel with waterslide
- SeaWorldTheme park15 minutes from resort
- Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & SpaHotelMediterranean villa feel with pools
- Batiquitos LagoonSightThe lagoon itself consists of 610 acres with a drainage basin of about 55,000 acres.
- Kona Kai Resort & SpaHotelPolynesian-inspired decor and private beach
- Shelter IslandNeighborhoodproperty located on southern tip
- Petco ParkSighteasy to catch a Padres game
- Manchester Grand Hyatt San DiegoHotellargest hotel in Southern California
- Seaport VillageSightThe complex houses more than 70 shops, galleries, and eateries on 90,000 square feet (8,000 m2) of waterfront property.
- Omni La Costa Resort & SpaHoteleight pools and waterslides
- San Diego Zoo Safari ParkZoofamily suite inspired by Elephant Valley
- San Diego Mission Bay ResortHotelon-site water sports rental business
- SeaWorld San DiegoTheme parkIt is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, public aquarium, and marine animal rehabilitation center.
- Topgolf Swing SuitePlace
- The New Children’s MuseumMuseum
- Elsewhere
- Legoland California ResortSightCarlsbad, United Statesnearby attraction with theme park packages
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Condé Nast TravelerAug 7
Eating My Way Through Tijuana, Where Food Tells the Story of the Border
Guided by local chefs and food experts, writer Megan Spurrell explores the culinary crossroads of Tijuana.
14 things in this story
- Friendship ParkSightnow-closed park on the US side of the border
- Elsewhere
- San Ysidro Port of EntrySightTijuana, Mexicobusiest land border crossing in the Western Hemisphere
- Avenida RevoluciónSightTijuana, Mexicomain street in Tijuana
- Hotel LafayetteHotelTijuana, Mexicohotel in Tijuana
- Farmacias RomaRestaurantTijuana, Mexicomeeting point suggested by Antonio Díaz de Sandi
- Club Tengo HambrePlaceTijuana, Mexicoleads food tours in Tijuana, Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico City
- Don PoloRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoburrito joint serving since 1916
- La Cahua de YeyoRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoserves carne asada tacos and tacos gobernadores
- El Concha'al del PaisaRestaurantTijuana, Mexicocart serving shrimp, octopus, and scallops tostadas
- ErizoRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoseafood restaurant with marine-inspired decor
- Caesar's RestauranteRestaurantTijuana, Mexicoinvented the Caesar salad
- Matiz EstudioSightTijuana, Mexicopottery shop using local clays for handmade dishware
- Chan's BistroRestaurantTijuana, Mexicomodern, casual Chinese restaurant
- Colonia CachoNeighborhoodTijuana, Mexicotrendy neighborhood in Tijuana
Condé Nast TravelerAug 6
21 Best Hotels in California for Wine Getaways, Ranch Life, and Endless Ocean Views
According to our Triple Crown Awards—a distinction for hotels that have been recognized by Traveler thrice over.
22 things in this story
- Fairmont Grand Del MarHotelLuxury resort with three-Michelin-starred Addison restaurant.
- AddisonRestaurantThree-Michelin-starred culinary offering at the resort.
- Torrey PinesSuburbHiking trails close to the resort.
- Elsewhere
- Ferry BuildingFerry terminalSan Francisco, United StatesWaterfront views and a short walk from the hotel.
- Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & SpaHotelAnaheim, United StatesPrime access to the happiest place on Earth.
- Hotel Bel-AirHotelLos Angeles, United StatesPalatial estate with elegant rooms and canyon suites.
- 1 Hotel San FranciscoHotelSan Francisco, United StatesOverlooks the Bay, eco ethos, near farmers market.
- CordeValleHotelSan Martin, United States1,700-acre private enclave with restaurants and golf.
- Estancia La JollaHotelLa Jolla, United StatesBeloved by locals for spa days and long lunches.
- Four Seasons Hotel San FranciscoHotelSan Francisco, United StatesCentrally located, popular with convention-goers.
- Moscone CenterSightSan Francisco, United StatesThe George R.
- Equinox Sports ClubPlaceSan Francisco, United StatesAccess to the 127,000-square-foot sports club.
- Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at EmbarcaderoHotelSan Francisco, United StatesSpherical space that radiates light.
- La ValenciaHotelLa Jolla, United StatesLa Jolla’s legendary “Pink Lady” with oceanfront villas.
- La Jolla CoveSightLa Jolla, United StatesSteps from the hotel.
- Whaling BarRestaurantLa Jolla, United StatesRevived bar, go-to for locals and visitors.
- La SalaRestaurantLa Jolla, United StatesPacific-facing patio for starting or ending the day.
- The Lodge at Torrey PinesHotelLa Jolla, United StatesCraftsman-era estate with sweeping Pacific views.
- North BeachQuarterSan Francisco, United States
- ChinatownNeighborhoodSan Francisco, United States
- Union SquareParkSan Francisco, United States
- MKT Restaurant and BarRestaurantSan Francisco, United States
Atlas ObscuraAug 6
Top Gun ‘Sleazy Bar’ in San Diego, California
Tucked away in the heart of San Diego’s bustling Marina District, Kansas City Barbeque might look like just another casual eatery serving up smoky ribs and cold beers. But for movie buffs, this unassuming spot holds a special place in cinematic history—it’s home to the original piano featured in the iconic 1986 film Top Gun . The beloved bar became a star itself after being used as a filming lo…
1 restaurant in this story
- Kansas City BarbequeBarFeatures the original piano from the 1986 film Top Gun.
Condé Nast TravelerJul 28
San Diego, According to Local Legend Tony Hawk
From his favorite bites to the essential skate parks, it's all too easy for Hawk.
24 things in this story
- Pacific BeachSuburbTony Hawk took the bus here as a kid.
- La Jolla ShoresQuarterAn iconic spot.
- TierrasantaSuburbMiddle-income suburbia with a community park and pool.
- Carl's Jr.Fast foodGot a cheeseburger, fries, and Coke for $1.00.
- Balboa ParkParkElementary school field trip destination, has a fountain.
- San Diego ZooZooElementary school field trip destination.
- Torrey Pines High SchoolPlaceTony Hawk attended high school here.
- Carmel Valley SkateparkSightOne of Tony Hawk's favorites today.
- Linda Vista Skate ParkSightA larger park with more variety in San Diego.
- The Skatepark ProjectPlaceFoundation dedicated to bringing skating to underserved areas.
- AnimaeRestaurantRestaurant in downtown San Diego by Chef Brian Malarkey.
- Novecientos GradosRestaurantRestaurant at San Diego International Airport.
- TaraRestaurantChef at Animae, takes inspiration from Filipino roots.
- Elsewhere
- Chick & HawkRestaurantEncinitas, United StatesEncinitas staple, specialty is The Birdman sandwich.
- Tamarack BeachSightCarlsbad, United StatesSkated here after school.
- Del Mar Skate RanchSightDel Mar, United StatesLocal haunt growing up, perfect wall in a pool.
- Moonlight BeachParkEncinitas, United StatesWent surfing here after learning a new trick.
- Prince Memorial SkateparkSightOceanside, United StatesA solid skatepark in Oceanside.
- Brower ParkParkNew York, United StatesSkatepark in Crown Heights, NYC.
- Allerton ParkParkNew York, United StatesBronx Skate Park in the Bronx, NYC.
- Mount Prospect ParkParkNew York, United StatesUpcoming project in Brooklyn, NYC.
- Atelier MannaRestaurantLeucadia, United StatesChef Andrew Bachelier's restaurant in Leucadia.
- The SeabirdRestaurantEncinitas, United StatesA dark horse menu item at Chick & Hawk.
- Alga Norte SkateparkSightCarlsbad, United States
Condé Nast TravelerJul 13
The Best Aquariums in the US
Marine life encounters, giant whale sharks, and conservation programs are all on the table at the best aquariums in the US.
13 things in this story
- Birch AquariumAquariumIt serves as the public outreach center for Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San…
- Elsewhere
- Georgia AquariumAquariumAtlanta, United StatesAward-winning program with puppyish sea lions.
- Tennessee AquariumMuseumChicago, United StatesIt opened in 1992 on the banks of the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga, with a major expansion added in 2005.
- Seattle AquariumMuseumChicago, United StatesThe aquarium opened in 1977 and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
- Monterey Bay AquariumMuseumChicago, United StatesKnown for its regional focus on the marine habitats of Monterey Bay, it was the first to exhibit a living kelp forest…
- Shedd AquariumAquariumChicago, United StatesChicago's aquarium.
- OdySea AquariumAquariumScottsdale, United StatesOnly rotating aquarium in the world, features OdySea Voyager.
- Alaska SeaLife CenterAquariumSeward, United StatesIt is located on the shores of Resurrection Bay in Seward.
- Adventure AquariumAquariumCamden, United StatesThe Adventure Aquarium, formerly the Thomas H.
- National AquariumAquariumBaltimore, United StatesExplore award-winning exhibits and meet all the animals at the National Aquarium, located on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
- Oregon Coast AquariumMuseumChicago, United States
- Aquarium of HawaiiMuseumChicago, United States
- Audubon Aquarium of the AmericasAquariumNew Orleans, United States
OutsideJun 16
Adventure Everywhere in San Diego, California
With the right perspective, and the right vehicle, you can find Adventure Everywhere
25 things in this story
- Telluride X-ProPlaceThe 2027 Kia Telluride is a rugged, 8-seat SUV with great horsepower, a powerful engine, and all-terrain tires.
- Telluride Turbo-HybridPlaceExplore the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid and see how performance meets comfort.
- Black’s BeachSighttwo-mile-long beach flanked by 300-foot cliffs
- Torrey Pines GliderportAirporttandem paragliding flights above Black's Beach
- Mission Beach BoardwalkSight3.5 miles of paved path connecting two towns
- Mission BeachSuburb1925 photo of the Mission Beach - Pacific Beach Boardwalk, also known as Oceanfront Boardwalk.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State ParkNature reserveCreated in 1932, the park takes its name from 18th century Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza and borrego, a…
- Borrego Palm Canyon CampgroundPlacecampsite in a desert park
- Cabrillo National MonumentNature reservepreserves first European landing spot on West Coast
- Point LomaSuburbGeographically it is a hilly peninsula that is bordered on the west and south by the Pacific Ocean, the east by San…
- Fiesta IslandNeighborhoodpeninsula park with beaches and bonfire rings
- San Diego RiverSightIt originates in the Cuyamaca Mountains northwest of the town of Julian, then flows to the southwest until it reaches…
- La Jolla ShoresQuarterbeach known for beginner surf breaks
- Cotixan Mexican FoodFast foodbeloved choice for authentic dishes, open 24 hours
- Little ItalyNeighborhoodpedestrian-friendly destination with cafes and boutiques
- Little Italy MercatoMarketlargest farmers’ market in the city
- Anza-Borrego Desert Mountain State ParkSight600,000-acre park with desert vibes
- Quivira BasinSightmarina popular for renting kayaks
- Pearl StreetNeighborhood
- La JollaNeighborhood
- Pacific BeachSuburb
- Borrego CanyonSight
- Mission BayNeighborhood
- Quiver BasinSight
- North San Diego BaySight
OutsideJun 6
The Best Dog Beaches in America, According to Dogs
There's something special about a place where people and their dogs can relax, play, and experience the outdoors together. These seven destinations do it best.
6 sights in this story
- Ocean Beach ParkParkOriginal OG of dog parks in California, first off-leash beach.
- Elsewhere
- Huntington Dog BeachSightHuntington Beach, United StatesMile-and-a-half stretch of sand where pets can run wild.
- De Soto ParkSightTampa, United StatesWell-loved dog beach with two leash-free locations.
- Jupiter ParkParkPalm Beach County, United StatesBoasts 2.5 miles of coastline where dogs can roam free.
- Elephant Butte Lake State ParkSightTruth or Consequences, United StatesDog-friendly area where many swim and play with their dogs.
- Montrose Dog BeachSightChicago, United StatesNearly four acres fenced in on Lake Michigan.
Condé Nast TravelerJan 27
41 Best Airbnbs in California, Whether You're Headed to Yosemite or LA
Top spots to stay for seaside getaways, wine country weekends, and national park trips.
24 hotels in this story
- Loft in Little ItalyHotelIndustrial decor, 20-foot ceilings, private patio
- Elsewhere
- Four-bedroom home near DisneylandHotelAnaheim, United StatesFamily-friendly with saltwater pool and game room
- Modern outpost amidst ancient rock spiresHotelJoshua Tree, United StatesDog-friendly stay with desert views
- Catalina Island villa with Santorini vibesHotelAvalon, United StatesOcean views from cliffside condo
- Hidden gem in Sonoma for 10HotelSonoma, United StatesPrivate pool and hot tub
- Refurbished 1920s beach cottageHotelOceanside, United StatesModern finishes with retro touches, front porch
- High-design desert dwellingHotelJoshua Tree, United StatesSleek, state-of-the-art, hot tub with stargazing
- Three-bedroom home near Joshua TreeHotelJoshua Tree, United StatesHot tub, outdoor shower, walking distance to downtown
- Pool with all the bells and whistlesHotelPalm Springs, United StatesResort-style lounge chairs, outdoor daybed, covered patio
- Family-friendly four-bedroom homeHotelOrange County, United StatesStylish solution for theme park trifecta
- Airy, light-filled bungalowHotelVenice Beach, United StatesNear Venice Beach shops and eateries, expansive front patio
- Downtown LA AirbnbHotelLos Angeles, United StatesWalking distance to The Broad, Grand Central Market
- Restored vintage lodgeHotelTopanga, United StatesStudio space near Topanga State Park
- Stylized A-frameHotelLake Arrowhead, United StatesMidcentury-modern trappings, adults-only spot
- Snug, smartly designed cottageHotelSan Luis Obispo, United StatesCreekside hideaway near downtown San Luis Obispo
- Whitewashed cliffside condoHotelAvalon, United StatesGlorious vistas overlooking Catalina's azure coastline
- Restored 1974 AirstreamHotelCarpinteria, United StatesGlamping done right with full amenities
- Reimagined 1948 cabinHotelSequoia National Park, United StatesMeditative retreat near Sequoia National Park
- Chalet near YosemiteHotelGroveland, United StatesSoothing space with fireplaces, hot tub, stargazing
- Ranch-style prefab homeHotelLone Pine, United StatesModern settlement near Mount Whitney and Alabama Hills
- Vibrant coastal cottageHotelCayucos, United StatesAlluring indoor/outdoor living spaces, two-minute stroll to beach
- Breezy cottage in Santa CruzHotelSanta Cruz, United StatesCoastal chic interiors, sunny garden courtyard
- One-bedroom bungalow in SeasideHotelSeaside, United StatesBright, stylish base for exploring Monterey and Carmel
- Modern white-and-wood homeHotelBonita, United States
Condé Nast TravelerNov 20, 2025
The Friendliest Cities in the US, According to Our Readers
Places that embody Midwest nice, Southern hospitality, and more.
12 things in this story
- Cardiff State BeachNature reserveBeach where you can catch waves.
- Belmont ParkTheme parkOpened on May 4, 1905, it is one of the most well known racetracks in the country, as it hosts the Belmont Stakes, the…
- Elsewhere
- Fort SumterParkCharleston, United StatesBuilt on an artificial island in 1829 in response to the War of 1812, which had exposed the inadequacy of American…
- Crescent ParkParkNew Orleans, United StatesPark for a stroll.
- Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMASightNew Orleans, United States11-acre sculpture garden.
- The CitadelSightCharleston, United StatesEstablished in 1842, it is the third oldest of the six senior military colleges in the United States.
- Kiawah IslandSightCharleston, United StatesKiawah is a sea island, or barrier island, on the Atlantic coast of the United States.
- Isle of PalmsSightCharleston, United StatesAs of the 2020 census, Isle of Palms had a population of 4,347.
- The Thurman CafeRestaurantColumbus, United StatesKnown for overloaded burgers.
- Torpedo Factory Art CenterArts centreAlexandria, United StatesArt center.
- Kentucky Horse ParkParkLexington, United StatesPark dedicated to horses.
- Keeneland Race CourseSightLexington, United StatesRace course.
Atlas ObscuraNov 4, 2025
Mothership in San Diego, California
Be prepared to be beamed up to another world with space themed cocktails and mocktails like the Polaris, Wormhole, Saturn and Astro Zombie at this planetary tiki bar in San Diego. As soon as you walk inside, the rock walls, spaceship seating, and starlight ceiling transport you out of this world. Some say it feels like you are entering the famous “Mos Eisley Cantina” from the Star Wars series.…
10 things in this story
- MothershipRestaurantplanetary tiki bar with space-themed cocktails
- South Park NeighborhoodParkneighborhood in San Diego
- PolarisRestaurantDiscover Yamaha, KTM, or Polaris ATVs hassle-free at The most human San Diego Motorcycle dealer.
- Mos Eisley CantinaSightfamous Star Wars cantina
- Star RiderRestaurantcocktail with star fruit garnish
- Potatoes 001Restaurantvegetarian snack
- Tofu 003Delivegetarian sharing plate
- WormholeTrail
- SaturnRestaurant
- Astro ZombieRestaurant
National GeographicSep 27, 2023
These U.S. beach towns are even better in the fall
Summer may be over, but beach season doesn’t have to be. In fact, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, fall is the best time to explore coastal towns where cultural sites, natural wonders, and ...
18 things in this story
- Cape May LighthouseSightCape May, United StatesClimb 199 steps for a bird's-eye view.
- Haystack RockNature reserveCannon Beach, United States235-foot basalt sea stack on the shoreline.
- Madison’s BakeryBakeryCape May, United StatesFamily-owned bakery for a sticky bun.
- Cape May BreweryRestaurantCape May, United StatesOffers a double IPA.
- S.S. AtlantusSightCape May, United StatesExplore the skeletal remains at Sunset Beach.
- Revere Beach ReservationSightRevere, United StatesFirst public beach in the U.S.
- Kelly’s Roast BeefFast foodRevere, United StatesGrab a roast beef sammie or lobster roll.
- Twist & ShakeRestaurantRevere, United StatesFamily-run spot for a sundae.
- Welcome PoleSightCannon Beach, United States10-foot cedar sculpture by Guy Capoeman.
- Cannon Beach History Center and MuseumMuseumCannon Beach, United StatesSee one of the namesake cannons.
- Main BeachSightLaguna Beach, United StatesAction-packed beach where Michael Jordan played basketball.
- Thousand Steps BeachSightLaguna Beach, United StatesSecluded beach reached by a steep staircase.
- Top of the World hikeTrailLaguna Beach, United States2.4-mile hike with panoramic views.
- Old Town TrolleyPlaceSt. Augustine, United StatesTour the historic city.
- City GateSightSt. Augustine, United StatesBuilt with coquina blocks in 1808.
- González-Alvarez HouseMuseumSt. Augustine, United StatesOldest surviving Spanish colonial dwelling in the city.
- Crescent BeachSightSt. Augustine, United StatesGo horseback riding on this sandy shore.
- Mickler’s Landing BeachSightSt. Augustine, United StatesLook for shark's teeth on pink sand.