Situated on Derby Wharf, Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a regular tourist destination that depicts Salem's maritime past. In the 1600s, Salem was founded as one of the foremost trading ports in the world, linking the Americas to India and East Asia. The historical site has been reconstructed by the National Park Service to illustrate this past. Visitors are able to walk through the old Derby and Bowditch homes, the U.S. Customs House where Nathanial Hawthorne once worked in 1846, or take a ride on Friendship, a reconstruction of an old sailing vessel, on either guided or self-guided tours. Exhibits, featuring old sailing compasses and maps, are on display at the Regional Visitors Center, which also contains a small gift shop, where books and artwork are for sale.
The Empire State Building was the world's tallest building when it was built, and its observation deck still offers visitors one of the best perspectives on New York City's streets and skyline. Before heading up to look down on the streets, look up at the lobby ceiling, where Art Deco-style ornamentation includes the stars and planets detailed in gold leaf.
Parking and public transportation at the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is in the heart of midtown, on famous Fifth Avenue, so it's easy to get to. Buses run down the avenue, and there are several subway stops nearby. Street parking is difficult, but you'll find parking garages in the neighborhood.
Best and worst time to go to the Empire State Building
You can visit the Empire State Building at almost any time; the building stays open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., with the last elevator up at 1:15 a.m. Go before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m. for fewer crowds. Whatever time you go, make sure the weather's clear so you'll get the best view.
Admission to the Empire State Building
If you just want to peek at the lobby, you can do that for free, but you'll pay admission to head to the higher levels. There are two observation decks, one on the 86th floor and one on the 102nd; there's an extra charge for getting as high as you can go. Children and seniors get discounts. Depending on the package you select and the ages in your party, admission ranges from about $30 to about $75. There's separate admission of about $45 for the Skyride attraction.
Must see/do at the Empire State Building
The main reason for visiting the Empire State Building is to take in the views of New York City. It's the second tallest building in the city, so you'll have an unobstructed view all the way, whether you look uptown, downtown, toward the east side, or towards the west side. The Skyride lets you virtually step out of the tower and soar above the city.
Other places to visit near the Empire State Building
There are other famous buildings near the Empire State Building, like the Flatiron Building and the Chrysler Building. You can walk up Fifth Avenue to the New York Public Library, and keep going up Fifth to find elegant shopping.
Insider tip for visitors to the Empire State Building
The 102nd floor observation deck is enclosed by glass, so taking photos can be challenging. You can get better photos from the 86th floor level, which is outdoors. Even if you visit during the day, be sure to look for the Empire State Building at night, when its top level is illuminated; the colors change daily to honor different special occasions.
Author's bio: Elissa Gilbert is a New York native. She blogs about her travels outside of the city at http://www.elissaexplores.com.
The 822 foot Mt. Soledad is known for great hiking and cycling trails, impressive views from the top, and a popular memorial at its summit. The Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial is marked by a massive cross, a landmark that has been the source of much controversy in San Diego. Nonetheless, like the cross at the top of Mount Helix in Eastern San Diego, the cross that tops the summit of Mt. Soledad is visible from many areas in Northern San Diego, including Clairemont Mesa and Pacific Beach. The Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial is considered one of the most unique in the country, and features 3,300 plaques honoring military veterans from all American branches.
Parking and public transportation at Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
Two primary parking lots are located along La Jolla Scenic Drive, both of which are very close to the memorial itself. Parking is plentiful, and finding a spot is not likely to be an issue.
Best and worst time to go to Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
The memorial itself is open from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Daylight hours are recommended for hiking the outdoor trails or sightseeing.
Admission to Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
Admission to the Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial is free thanks to donations given to the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association. For info on joining the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, click here.
Must see and do at Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
- Explore the memorial, including the giant cross and the various plaques.
- Try some photography; there are phenomenal views in every direction.
- Start at Kate O. Sessions Park and hike to Mt. Soledad for one of many hikes in the area.
Other places to visit near Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
The Marine Room
With a memorable blue seahorse for a logo, this nearby restaurant specializes in French cuisine. La Jolla is among the most affluent areas around San Diego, so expect the prices to reflect that.
Kellog Park
For much more of a beach setting, check out the nearby Kellog Park. With a large grass field, boardwalk, and room for BBQ's, Kellog Park is well worth the short drive from Mt. Soledad.
Barbarella
Known for a cozy atmosphere and unique options like the Pizza Bismark for breakfast, this local restaurant has a daily seasonal selections and even a menu for dogs.
Insider tip for visitors to Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
Mt. Soledad was the final home of notable children's author, Dr. Seuss. Also, the giant cross has been a source of controversy since 1989, primarily because many people see the giant religious symbol on government property as an infringement on the separation of church and state.
Author's bio: After a seven year career in the US Navy, Nicholas Napier completed his MBA and settled in California. He's published over 40 articles as the San Diego Fitness Trends Examiner, and regularly contributes as a freelance writer to various companies.
Fairbanks House is the country's oldest timber frame house in North America. Tree-ring dating has proved that the house was built sometime in late 1639 or early 1640. The house was built for a family of immigrants named Johathan & Gracie Fairebanke and their six children from Yorkshire, England. An excellent place to learn about this particular facet of history, the Fairbanks House is open to the public for tours from May to October.
Enter the site's welcome center at 14A Beacon Street to pick up information about and maps of the Black Heritage Trail, which takes visitors along a 1.6-mile route connecting 10 historic sites.
Please note that the prices below are for admittance to the African Meeting House, the final stop of the Black Heritage Trail. Guided walks of the trail, led by National Park Service Rangers, are free and begin at the nearby Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. The tour schedule varies according to the season.
The Empire State Building was the world's tallest building when it was built, and its observation deck still offers visitors one of the best perspectives on New York City's streets and skyline. Before heading up to look down on the streets, look up at the lobby ceiling, where Art Deco-style ornamentation includes the stars and planets detailed in gold leaf.
Parking and public transportation at the Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is in the heart of midtown, on famous Fifth Avenue, so it's easy to get to. Buses run down the avenue, and there are several subway stops nearby. Street parking is difficult, but you'll find parking garages in the neighborhood.
Best and worst time to go to the Empire State Building
You can visit the Empire State Building at almost any time; the building stays open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., with the last elevator up at 1:15 a.m. Go before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m. for fewer crowds. Whatever time you go, make sure the weather's clear so you'll get the best view.
Admission to the Empire State Building
If you just want to peek at the lobby, you can do that for free, but you'll pay admission to head to the higher levels. There are two observation decks, one on the 86th floor and one on the 102nd; there's an extra charge for getting as high as you can go. Children and seniors get discounts. Depending on the package you select and the ages in your party, admission ranges from about $30 to about $75. There's separate admission of about $45 for the Skyride attraction.
Must see/do at the Empire State Building
The main reason for visiting the Empire State Building is to take in the views of New York City. It's the second tallest building in the city, so you'll have an unobstructed view all the way, whether you look uptown, downtown, toward the east side, or towards the west side. The Skyride lets you virtually step out of the tower and soar above the city.
Other places to visit near the Empire State Building
There are other famous buildings near the Empire State Building, like the Flatiron Building and the Chrysler Building. You can walk up Fifth Avenue to the New York Public Library, and keep going up Fifth to find elegant shopping.
Insider tip for visitors to the Empire State Building
The 102nd floor observation deck is enclosed by glass, so taking photos can be challenging. You can get better photos from the 86th floor level, which is outdoors. Even if you visit during the day, be sure to look for the Empire State Building at night, when its top level is illuminated; the colors change daily to honor different special occasions.
Author's bio: Elissa Gilbert is a New York native. She blogs about her travels outside of the city at http://www.elissaexplores.com.
Massachusetts State House is located in the heart of Boston. It houses the General Court and the offices of the Governor of the state. Massachusetts State House has been serving the community for over 234 years. Please call for more information on it's services.
