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What does one pack for a luxury train journey through the Rocky Mountains? I’m so used to air travel in wretched coach class, I wasn’t quite sure how to approach a two-day train trip in famed GoldLeaf Service on the legendary Rocky Mountaineer train. Top hat? Ball gown? Dungarees? 

Errr, no. Now that I’ve been on the First Passage to the West itinerary from Vancouver to Kamloops to Banff, I’ve compiled some tips so you’ll know what to pack when you go.

What is the Rocky Mountaineer?

The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that winds through some of the most scenic parts of Western Canada. Its routes connect places like Vancouver and Banff or Jasper, traveling through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Trips run seasonally from spring through early fall, when the mountains, rivers and wildlife are at their best.

What makes it special is how it slows everything down. You’re in glass-dome coaches with wide open views, meals are served right at your seat, and the staff points out wildlife, waterfalls and the kind of scenery you’d normally miss if you were driving. You ride during the day and stay in hotels at night, so nothing slips by while you sleep. It’s less about the destination and more about staying present for every stretch of track.

MORE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TIPS:

• 5 Reasons to Ride the Rocky Mountaineer Now
• 8 Things to Do Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer Train
• 36 Hours in Jasper National Park
• Taking the Canyon Spirit Train from Denver to Moab

Here’s everything you should pack for the Rocky Mountaineer Train!

What Luggage is Allowed on the Rocky Mountaineer?

Checked Bags

Suitcases are transported magically from your originating hotel in the morning to your room at the destination hotel in the evening. This means you never have to cart luggage on and off the train – it just appears in the evenings and disappears in the mornings. (Can I please have GoldLeaf Service every where I go?) Each passenger is allowed two suitcases with a maximum of 66 pounds.

Carry-On

Your magically disappearing and reappearing checked luggage is not accessible once you’re on the train, so be sure to pack a small carry-on with everything you need for an 8-10 hour non-stop adventure – medication, prescription glasses, a book (though I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the scenery to focus on reading!), sweater, lip balm, laptop (but you won’t use it), eye drops, tissues, hand lotion… anything that’ll make you feel comfy during the journey.

What Electronics To Bring on the Rocky Mountaineer

Hot tip from your favorite chronically online traveler: if ever there was a time to intentionally unplug and disconnect, THIS IS IT. Tell the office you’re out of cell range and go into airplane mode if you have to so you don’t miss a single thing.

Portable Charger & Power Bank

There are no accessible outlets on the train, so bring a Mophie or a Jumpack and accompanying cords to make sure all your gear has juice throughout the journey. Cell service is spotty at best and there’s no WiFi on the train, so even though you’ll likely just be using your phone for photos, it’s wise to have a charger on hand just in case.

Camera

No matter your level of photographic professionalism, a camera is a must, but now is not the time to splurge on a crazy new setup and try to figure it out while zipping through the countryside and the mountains. Bring what you’re most comfortable using! I brought my Olympus E-PL5, my iPhone 5s and my GoPro. Sure, I wish I had a fancier lens when we whizzed by an adorable bear, but this little setup worked really well for me – and wasn’t too cumbersome for my carry-on.

What to Wear on the Rocky Mountaineer

Tuxedos and Top Hats

Just kidding! Though you will certainly feel like you’re on the Fancy-Pants Express, ball gowns and top hats are not required onboard the Rocky Mountaineer – even in Gold Leaf Service! The key to traveling in style is comfort. I wouldn’t go so far as to recommend Pajama Jeans, but regular jeans, leggings, jeggings and slacks are all within the realm of possibility. A dress or shorts are fine, but once the train begins to climb in elevation, you will wish for covered legs.

Layers

While it’s completely acceptable to sit in the toasty glass-domed car drinking Bailey’s on ice all day, at some point you’ll want to wander downstairs and out to one of the open-air vestibules. In Alberta, British Columbia and Washington, the weather varies greatly based on time of year and even time of day, so layers are the key. Depending on where you are on the journey, it might be very cold or even snowing – hello, Rockies! Think about bringing multiple layering pieces you can doff and don with ease – scarves, hats, zip-up sweaters and a coat. Fingerless gloves are super helpful if you’re using a touchscreen device to snap photos outdoors.

Flat Shoes

The train is no place for heels, especially if you’re going up and down the stairs and taking photos outside in the vestibule. Sturdy-soled boots and tennis shoes are a good way to go. I LOVE anything from The Walking Company. I have THREE pairs of their boots – I barely take them off in the winter. I also love Tieks. Fabulous, luxurious, foldable, Italian leather ballet flats – they look great and are super comfy!

SUSTENANCE

Your Appetite

I always pack emergency snacks when I travel just in case, but that’s because I’m usually traveling on airplanes, and I’m usually delayed, for hours, with no granola bars to tide me over. You won’t have a chance to get hungry or thirsty, especially in GoldLeaf Service. The Rocky Mountaineer’s onboard chefs will handle every tasty nibble during the journey, so please, leave your snacks at home!

You get gourmet breakfast and lunch every day in the downstairs dining car, plus second breakfast and second lunch snacks and booze (or tea or soda – whatever you’re into) delivered to your seat all day.

Those with dietary requirements are asked to let the staff know at least a week in advance so they can prepare. It’s not like they can just stop the train and find gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free whatever in the middle of the wilderness, you know?

It’s a pretty simple packing job for the Rocky Mountaineer now that I think about it. Just bring cozy clothes, camera gear and your appetite and you are all set!

Tell me: have you been on the Rocky Mountaineer or is it on your bucket list?

Updated 2026

We just got back from wine country out in Oregon and even though I kinda wanna keep this place all to myself, it’s too good not to share. Especially now that it’s officially Cellar Season! All the grapes have been plucked from the vines and the award-winning wine-making is underway, so it’s an ideal time to experience the Willamette Valley and its 700 wineries with fewer crowds and exponentially more coziness. Serious oenophiles know that the time from December through February offers priceless one-on-one insights on what’s fermenting and how different vintage wines are maturing–all while escaping wintery weather.

_{This content brought to you in partnership with Obie Hospitality. All opinions are my own as always.}

And there’s so much more than just good vino. Farm-to-fork meals crafted from the Pacific Northwest’s yummiest ingredients pair with local wines in ways our taste buds are still dreaming about. (DM me to discuss how many magical beets we ate on our trip – who knew beets were so good?!)

If you’re into wine, food and being impossibly snuggly by the fire, a Cellar Season trip to Oregon needs to be on your travel bucket list.

Where to Stay During Cellar Season

The 5th Street Public Market was our home base for cellar season in Oregon. Expanded in 2021, it is a place of community pride with over 30 years of history. There are often fun holiday events, pep rallies for the University of Oregon Ducks and movie nights inside the covered market area. From the gourmet food hall to the balconies of Inn at 5th, Eugene’s market feels like a European city dropped into the PNW. It’s a ton of fun and really a one-stop shop that draws just as many locals as it does visitors. A real jewel in Eugene’s crown!

It’s more than just a bustling urban market filled with funky shops, gourmet grub and tasting rooms though. There are two gorgeous boutique hotels bookending the market, the cozy, intimate Inn at the 5th and the sociable, fun, artsy Gordon Hotel. We experienced both and couldn’t pick a favorite if we tried, so we’ll share some of the highlights of each so you know which one to choose when you visit. And if you can’t decide? You can always split your time between the two Eugene Oregon hotels for a whole different experience just a few minutes walk away.

The Inn at 5th

Vibe: Cozy, intimate, quiet, organic/neutral tones

Oh how we loved The Inn at the 5th! There’s a fireplace in every room – a must for Cellar Season snuggling and watching Twilight from bed. (I mean, what else are you gonna watch when you’re The Jet Sisters in the Pacific Northwest?!) Many rooms have balconies overlooking the courtyard. Each room is uniquely designed and themed – we stayed in a craft beer-themed room with local taps as a headboard. There’s also a spa room that has a shower that can fit 12 people. Now, that’s not recommended of course, but holy moly was it impressive.

We were looking forward to trying out the Pendleton Blanket room service menu Rob from 2TravelDads told us about. Yes, you can (and you MUST) have a famous Pendleton blanket delivered to your door. And speaking of room service, in the spirit of privacy and comfort, each room has a locked cabinet near the door where any deliveries are dropped off. You never have to open the door for room service or DoorDash, it’ll just be there in your little cabinet when you’re ready. There’s also a private elevator to take guests to the Gervais Spa so you don’t have to wander around the lobby in your bathrobe. The Inn at the 5th is pet friendly, there’s a complimentary airport shuttle and free bikes to explore the area, and there’s free wine at check-in and free snacks anytime. For more info, check out the hotel’s website here.

The Gordon Hotel

Vibe: sociable, bright, artsy, fun, energetic

The Gordon is an artist’s dream hotel, with creative installations in literally every room, corner and floor. The 82 unique guest rooms feature lots of natural light, signature plush king beds and cozy robes, plus views of the area and the 5th Street Public Market below.

The lobby is incredible! In addition to a restaurant and lounge, there are cozy areas to stop and have a glass of vino or two. There are hundreds of bottles sparkling on the ceiling (apparently there’s a Where’s Waldo situation going on up there but we couldn’t find it) and a digital art display behind reception that students from the University of Oregon help to populate with images and video. GOR-GEOUS.

We loved the Art Bar in the lobby, a 24/7 spot for creativity stocked with art supplies. Feeling inspired after a night out at a tasting room, the taqueria on the top floor (or, shhhh, the Gordon’s secret speakeasy)? You can stop at the Art Bar before heading up to your room for the night to create a masterpiece. For more info, check out the hotel’s website here.

6 Wineries / Tasting Rooms to Visit During Oregon’s Cellar Season

There are two main ways to experience the wineries in this region – either in person onsite, or at tasting rooms throughout the valley. Winemaking is such a fascinating, historic, scientific and passionate pursuit, so I love chatting with the winemakers to learn everything about how they got into the industry and what they’re working on. The region offers award-winning wines that truly reflect the area’s unique climate and soil composition – both reminiscent of France yet distinctive. Each bottle is crafted by talented winemakers who have invested decades into honing their skills here at this special place. There’s nothing like being expertly guided in your wine tasting by the folks who actually made the wine, you know?

TIP: Leave space in your suitcase for bottles. You’re sure to find a favorite or two along the way that you want to take home. You can check one whole case of wine from participating wineries for free when flying on Alaska Airlines out of Eugene Airport (EUG).

Silvan Ridge Winery

Silvan Ridge has the vibe of a small European winery and it’s an easy 15-minute drive from downtown Eugene. The tasting area is super cozy with a fireplace and really great service. Instead of a charcuterie board, we went for the chocolates and paired them with a wine flight. That was the best decision of the day. YUM.

Iris Vineyards

Springfield’s first tasting room! Iris Vineyards has an exquisite Pinot Noir, vibrant Pinot Gris and classic Chardonnay. We tasted flights of them all as well as their famous wine-based cocktails at the intimate wine bar in downtown Springfield, a quick drive from the heart of Eugene. There’s a cute little courtyard with cafe lights – it’s all very romantic. Don’t forget to get a charcuterie board to go along with the drinks.

King Estate

What a gorgeous drive! A must visit in-person vineyard. It feels like you just drove up to an Italian villa. There are vineyards as far as the eye can see. King Estate has grown to become the largest Biodynamic certified vineyard on the continent. Home to an integrated ecosystem within Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley, the winery puts its commitment to sustainable farming into practice – and these efforts have created memorable wines along with it.

J. Scott Cellars

Opened in 2020, J. Scott Cellars on 5th is located in The Market District. It’s an upscale wine bar and tasting room with 18 vintages that have all earned 90+ Pts rating from Wine Enthusiast Magazine – a feat few can match. (Am I still sipping on my 2015 dessert riesling from this visit? Yes, I am!) This is also a delightful spot for sweet and savory waffles on the weekends.

Pfeiffer Winery

We visited Pfeiffer’s tasting room at the 5th Street Public Market. Loved that you can have an al fresco wine tasting experience in the covered Market Alley. The whole place has such fun energy! Of course, we left with a few bottles to take home. They also have a winery you can visit, guided by owner and winemaker Robin Pfeiffer.

The Oregon Wine LAB

With a vast selection of libations, The Oregon Wine LAB is a casual oasis in Eugene. From William Rose Wines produced onsite to curated local and international wines. And don’t forget the full tap list of beers and ciders for our the non-winos. Also check out Da Nang Vietnamese Eatery close by – voted one of EugeneWeekly’s Best Food Cart selections.

There are far more wineries and tasting rooms than we had time to visit, so check out more Eugene tasting trails and food tours here. 

5 Restaurants You’ve Got to Try During Cellar Season

One of the most fun parts of wine tasting is learning what pairs best with each varietal and vintage. The flavors of Oregon’s South Willamette Valley are ideal for this kind of culinary adventure! The bounty is diverse around here from valley farms to forests to vineyards to the Pacific Ocean. Here are some of our favorite restaurants for Cellar Season.

The Restaurant at King Estate

We had our most elaborate meal of the trip at the King Estate. It’s a must-do! The views! The roaring fire! The service! Not to mention, we ate all the food they had. Oysters from the coast. A charcuterie board that will go down in history. A beet salad that would make Dwight Schrute cry tears of joy. Steak and lamb and duck. I should not be writing this while hungry! I recommend a long leisurely lunch here with a table overlooking the vineyard. What a treat.

Jazzy Ladies Cafe & Club

Just a few minutes’ walk from The 5th Street Public Market, Jazzy Ladies Cafe and Club is a hot brunch spot known for gluten free options and adorable lattes with music notes swirled in the foam.

Marché

Located at the 5th Street Public Market, Marché is one of Eugene’s best restaurants and a James Beard Award nominee. We weren’t terribly hungry by the time our reservation rolled around, but did that stop us from trying the most incredible steak frites? You know the answer. A must visit when you come to Eugene.

 Magpie

Great for breakfast and coffee on the go, Magpie is just steps outside the lobby of the Gordon. This woman-owned coffee shop has excellent avocado toast, ginormous cinnamon rolls and pastries.

Tavern on Main

Just next door to Iris Vineyards’ Wine Bar, we grabbed dinner at Tavern on Main. All I can say is: Golden Beet Dip for the win. And mussels. And fried Brussels sprouts. Are y’all hungry yet?

NOTE: Weather can be unpredictable in the winter months, so be sure to check hours of operation before you visit any of these locations. That way you won’t be left out in the cold if there are any closures due to changing weather conditions!

Bonus Cellar Season Activities in Oregon Wine Country

• There are lots of skiing/snowshoeing adventures nearby. We didn’t get to check them out because there was no snow yet, but that’s on the list for next time.
• Catch a show at the Hult Center for the Performing Arts, easy walking distance from the 5th Street Public Market.
• Waddle around on a tour of the University of Oregon campus. #ScoDucks!
• If it’s nice out, rent an electric bike and explore downtown.
• Take a day trip out to the coast to feel the cold Pacific Ocean breeze!
• Check out a sommelier-hosted wine tasting tour in the Willamette Valley.

Can a Type A travel writer with mega FOMO find happiness on a smaller cruise ship like Windstar’s Star Pride?

As a former New Yorker living just two blocks from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal and Floridian with ports in every direction, I’ve experienced a handful of the larger cruise lines in my day. And you know what? I liked them all. I like having a packed schedule of crazy fun adventures. I like flashy shows and karaoke and sunrise yoga and scavenger hunts. I like pushing my limits, burning the candle at both ends and trying new things.

At least… that’s what I’ve always liked in the past.

The Windstar Experience

When we booked our Windstar cruise, I was curious what it would be like to cruise on a 212-passenger ship that looks like a Barbie boat next to some of the modern sailing marvels. Limited space means there’s no Broadway shows or trapeze lessons or rock climbing. There’s only one tiny pool and two wee hot tubs, a couple of bars/lounges and two restaurants. Where most cruise lines are shooting the moon to go bigger and more grandiose every year, Windstar has remained small and cozy, focusing on its James Beard cuisine program and unique, small ports of call.

That’s not to say there’s nothing to do, but there’s just not 7,409 things to do every 15 minutes. 

Windstar Star Pride Review

We arrived on a super early flight to our port of embarkation, lovely San Juan, Puerto Rico. Rick and I did not account for this day of pre-cruise exploration, so by the time we boarded, we were sweating and sunburned like first time travelers. We walked 10 miles (literally!) around Old San Juan, from forts to parks to diners to museums. You almost wouldn’t know that the island was still feeling the effects of Hurricane Maria, because the colorful area around the cruise terminal has bounced back so quickly.

The eager and friendly Windstar staff waiting to welcome us were a sight for sore eyes (and feet!) and we were whisked away within a few minutes from check-in to our suite.

Our Suite onboard Windstar Star Pride

You know how once you fly First Class, it’s really hard to go back to Coach? That’s how I feel about our home onboard the Star Pride. Rick and I were in one of four Classic Suites. Ours was midship on Deck 6, with ample living and dining space, closets for days, a roomy balcony (tucked rather unceremoniously under a lifeboat) and a full-sized shower. I could’ve fit the rest of our immediate family in our suite and still had room. I’m not sure I could ever book an interior stateroom ever again.

What Makes Windstar Different

Laidback Vibes

The most intriguing thing about the Star Pride was also the hardest to quantify for me, because honestly, how do you capture the feeling of a sailing? Everyone was just so… chill. So mellow. So unfrazzled. No one rushed around to get anywhere. There were no pushy folks at the buffets or elbows being thrown to get to the lobster station at the deck party. 

While Windstar’s price point is premium, the experience is much more laidback than you might expect. Not only are there no formal nights, there didn’t seem to be too many formal people. Rick, who chafes if I request he wear a shirt with buttons, was in his element. And frankly it was nice to not have to worry about packing gowns and shoes and jackets and whatnot. 

In just a day or two, it seemed like we were on a first name basis with the staff and the passengers — and we aren’t always the go-out-and-make-friends-with-strangers-types. Unlike some of the ships I’ve sailed on, the Star Pride was definitely not an all-night party ship. If you’ve ever accidentally booked one of the large ships during Spring Break, you know what I mean. Things can get cray-cray real fast.  

On the Star Pride, everyone seemed to be having a whale of a time in pleasant moderation.

Watersports Platform

I’ve never had the opportunity to step off the ship into the sea before until the Star Pride. After our time exploring Martinique, we dropped our stuff in the cubbies and dove right in, frolicking on the water trampoline, chasing down wayward noodles and getting to know our fellow passengers. This feature is unique to the smaller cruise ships of the world, and it’s one of my favorite amenities. 

The Warmest Staff

Wilhelm, Marius, Hubert, Tigi, Sin City, Dian, Mark Anthony and Arnel were just a few of the folks who made a lasting impression on us. Months later, we are still laughing about Tigi’s one-liners, marveling over how Wilhelm went above and beyond to make sure we had candy for our movie night and reliving via iPhone video the line dance party everyone talked about all week. 

Small Ship, Small Ports

There are benefits to sailing on a small ship that I didn’t even consider beforehand. Taking the tender to and from shore was a piece of cake. There were never any lines or crowds. I can’t say I’ve ever had an easier time in port than with the Star Pride.

And the ports we visited were often just for us. This wasn’t a trip to Nassau with 10,000+ other daily cruise passengers. In St. Lucia, we were the only ship in the bay, and we had a catered beach party on a private slice of beach. In Montserrat, we were the only ship in port. It felt like we had the place to ourselves. That’s such a rarity in cruise ports!

Daily Sail Away Ceremony & Open Bridge Policy 

On the first day as we sailed from San Juan, the staff hoisted the Windstar flag above the pool/bar area with pomp and circumstance and an evocative soundtrack. Think Game of Thrones meets the Russian Navy meets Pirates of the Caribbean. (It’s actually from Greek composer Vangelis’ 1492: Conquest to Paradise album. Yes, we listen to it at home now at pool parties.) It was curious to watch on the first day, but by the end, everyone was into it. After a few days, it became a real group moment at the Star Bar that everyone looked forward to. It’s funny how quickly we all felt like seafaring family.

Windstar Cruises is one of the only lines with an open bridge policy. For the majority of time at sea, you can pop in to the bridge to meet the captain and crew. Rick is a true Long Islander with a long history on the sea, so he had lots of smart questions for the captain about aft and stern and knots and whatnot. I just wanted to know all the juicy gossip and stories about the wackiest passengers and weirdest occurrences at sea.

Destination Discovery Event

Each sailing, guests are treated to a special event somewhere along the way. Ours was a spectacularly catered Caribbean beach party in St. Lucia. We did a snuba excursion early, and then made our way to cozy, shaded lounge chairs where we sipped fruity drinks and waded in crystal clear water. I didn’t expect to be back in St. Lucia so soon, but I’m not complaining!

Limited Kids

Kids are wonderful and I love them. Now that we all know I’m not a kid-hater, can I say just how wonderful it was to have a limited number of them onboard? There are no kids activities whatsoever, so those who do sail with Windstar are every bit as mellow and unflappable as the other passengers. Low key, self-sustaining kiddos over 7 who don’t need a lot of packaged entertainment do well here. We met the handful of youngsters throughout the week and they were awesome. 

Mishaps and Room for Improvement

If you’re a human being*, you probably already know it’s impossible for everything to go well 100% of the time. There’s not much you can do but roll with the punches on those days. And no matter how far you run from the dramas of home, you’ll find them abroad eventually if you travel long enough.

*If you’re not a human being, I have some questions for you.

I woke up sweating around 3 a.m. on the second night of our journey, somewhere between Martinique and St. Lucia. There was no power in our stateroom, so I opened the door to our balcony and let a bit of sea breeze in. At breakfast, we learned the ship was having issues with one of the power sources onboard, but expected it to be sorted out quickly. Over the next couple of days, the power was on and off, affecting the dining room schedule and the air conditioning. The captain kept passengers updated with frequent audio announcements and occasional paper updates in the rooms, but no sooner did the air conditioning start working again than the generator would fizzle and they’d have to start all over. The captain altered the itinerary so we could dock in Castries, St. Lucia, to await technicians to fly in. Ultimately we missed our day in Guadeloupe so they could make sure it was safe to carry on. 

There’s something to be said for the way a brand approaches unexpected mechanical issues like these, and Windstar did a good job of keeping passengers informed and ultimately compensated. Onboard credits were offered, as were free drinks for the duration of the journey.

While I did shell out for expenses, our cabin was complimentary for this journey, so realistically I was probably less frustrated with the power situation than someone who’d perhaps paid full price. I was more stressed about the WiFi being out than anything else, because I can’t work if I can’t be online! It worked often enough that I was able to keep things afloat, so to speak.

To be frank, I was shocked at how many of our fellow passengers found the generator issues to be a fun and novel part of a travel adventure vs. a major inconvenience. I was surprised at how cavalier folks were about the mishaps, and it definitely got me thinking about how travel gives you perspective on life’s speed bumps.

Can you still have a good time if things aren’t perfect? And what does that say about you as a traveler and a person?

Short of packing up and flying home from the next port, there was not much we could do about the issues with the generator. But we were safe, well-fed and in the Caribbean for goodness sake, so there was little point in throwing a hissy. We had the drink of the day and a balcony to sleep on when the room got too warm.

That said, with the mechanical issues in play, I’m not sure we got the full Windstar experience. A taste of the yacht life was enough to convince us to try this one again in the future – ideally on one of the three ships with the gorgeous sails. Yes, we were hot and uncomfortable at times, but the pleasant attitude from the staff (who I imagine were stressed and sweaty as well) spread to all the passengers. The free rum helped, too.

I’m a big fan of folks who can make the best of things even when they’re all wrong. They make the best travelers, the best friends and the best staff. The Star Pride was full of these kinds of folks.

After a little introspection, it occurred to me that as much fun as I’ve had on cruises in the past, I do often feel like I’ve been dragged behind a truck afterward. And this is mostly my fault! There are always going to be relaxing options, like sitting by the pool or spending a day at the spa. But when I’m presented with an all-you-can-handle menu of activities from ice skating to go karting to line dancing, my FOMO kicks in and I want to do it all.

Windstar’s purposefully minimal activity schedule meant I had to slow my frenetic pace. It was hard to do at first, but by the end I had an idea of what a vacation might be like for people with an OFF switch.

Life onboard a smaller ship meant we spent more time just existing with my guy – watching the flying fish in the ship’s wake, searching for telltale signs of whales on the horizon and making friends in the pool. We didn’t spend any time deliberating over if we should go to the towel animal demonstration or the hairy chest contest or bingo. We just existed.

Maybe that’s what a real vacation is all about. 

I’ll share more about our itinerary and our favorite ports of call in a future post. In the meantime, tell me about your favorite cruise line. Do you prefer large ships with lots of activities or smaller ones with more relaxed itineraries?

As I mentioned, Windstar hosted us on this sailing. This post, as always, reflects my personal experience and opinions. 

For those lucky enough to have a few weeks or more, go ahead and see it all in one epic adventure, but if not, you can still see some amazing sights with this 10-day Costa Rica Itinerary, from beaches to volcanoes road trip.

Costa Rica Itinerary Highlights

We’ve been traveling to Costa Rica annually for dental work for years, and each time we visit a new destination. The best place to start is almost always San Jose, the capital. There are direct flights to SJO from all over the US, so it’s pretty easy to get to in just a few hours. Only have a week? Check out our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary!

For travelers who fall in love with the region and start exploring long-term lifestyle options, topics like caribbean citizenship often come up alongside extended stays, regional mobility, and future relocation planning.  

First we head south to Quepos area to check out Costa Rica’s most famous national park and do a bit of fishing. We hit up Jaco and Los Sueños for surf lessons and ziplining. After a few nights at the beach, we drive up to Arenal for volcano views, hot spring baths, waterfalls and spa treatments. Not a bad deal, right?

Getting Around Costa Rica

For this trip, we rented a 4×4 with Vamos Rent-a-Car. They pick you up from the airport and get you settled with a vehicle, a cooler and a GPS since often times you won’t get service out and about. And it’s all included. How cool is that? Their office is in a little complex with hotels and restaurants, so it’s super convenient if your flight schedule requires an overnight in San Jose. 

In previous trips, we used taxis and shuttles to get around. That was fine when we didn’t feel like driving, but the flexibility we got from having a vehicle made it worth it. We saw and did so much more on our own schedule and Costa Rica was very easy to drive in.

Check pricing and availability at Vamos Rent-a-Car

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica sits close to the equator, so warm temperatures are the norm year-round, but the country’s seasons are defined by rainfall rather than heat. From May to November, afternoon showers roll in across much of the country, earning this stretch the nickname “green season.” It is a time when rainforests are vibrant, waterfalls are at their strongest and wildlife activity ramps up, often with fewer crowds and better value for travelers.

For drier days and classic beach weather, December through April is the most popular time to visit. Skies are clearer, trails are easier to navigate and coastal towns buzz with energy, making it a great window for hiking, surfing and exploring national parks. Just keep in mind that this is also peak season, especially around holidays, so booking accommodations and tours early can make a big difference.

Sea to Sky: Our 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary

Day 1: San Jose to Quepos

Note: We start most of our Costa Rica trips near Jaco because that’s where our dentist is, but you can reverse this itinerary based on availability and your schedule.

Depart San Jose! Stop at the famous bridge in Tarcoles to see the enormous crocodiles who congregate beneath. Be extra mindful as this is a high traffic area where many drivers are sightseeing. This is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, a souvenir or two and break up the drive. Croc-viewing is free, as is parking. 

Once you get to Quepos, check into your hotel and decompress by exploring the town. We stayed at Makanda by the Sea, an adults only, trendy boutique overlooking the Pacific Ocean with its own private beach, yoga pavilion and a delicious restaurant. We had a balcony surrounded by jungle and daily monkey sightings by the pool. It was a splurge, but we really enjoyed it!

Check pricing and availability at Makanda By the Sea

For a more budget friendly stay, check out these glamping tents in Quepos or Peace of Paradise, more of a B&B style spot.

Day 2: Manuel Antonio National Park 

Manuel Antonio is Costa Rica’s most popular national park and it’s easy to see why: it’s absolutely gorgeous and the wildlife will blow you away. We went with Efraín Nature Tours, a local company whose founder helped to establish Manuel Antonio as a national park many years ago. We would not have spotted sloths way up in the trees without the help of our guide and his equipment, so keep that in mind. Monkeys are a dime a dozen, but those sloths are tougher to see.

Don’t wait until the last minute to book in high season like we did – oops! A few other Manuel Antonio guides if ours are booked: Jade Tours or Manuel Antonio Nature Tours.

NOTE: Food is not allowed in Manuel Antonio. I know this because I packed enough snacks to keep us alive if we were lost in the jungle for 3 months and had to leave them behind in the tour office. There are food carts and a small cafeteria inside so plan on grabbing lunch (and ice cream!) there.

TIP: Watch out for iguanas! There are several species here and while they aren’t usually aggressive, they will get ya if you almost step on one like I did.

Other Manuel Antonio Tours You Might Like: 

• Manuel Antonio Chocolate Tour
• Jungle at Night Tour
• SUP Paddleboarding tour of Manuel Antonio National Park

Day 3: Fishing, Boating or Zip-lining in Quepos 

Today is a great day to explore the coast! We started our day at Marina Pez Vela, where we met up with a fishing charter for a full day on the water. We weren’t wowed by the fishing charter we selected, so I won’t recommend them here, but there are lots of options to choose from. You will need to get a $20 fishing license, and that can be purchased at the marina before your boat departs.

Rick did get his first roosterfish so it was a successful trip! Check out Marina Pez Vela Villas if you want to stay right in the marina. The Wide Mouth Frog hostel is within walking distance and is a great budget friendly option.

If fishing isn’t your thing but you do want to get out on the water, check out this catamaran tour of Manuel Antonio, which includes snacks and drinks, snorkeling/swimming and wildlife spotting.

If the water is rough, head inland to Central America’s longest zipline!

Day 4: Quepos to Jaco to Los Sueños

Have a traditional Costa Rican breakfast of gallo pinto at your hotel. Seriously, I dream about this stuff when I’m back home!

It’s an easy drive from Quepos up to Jaco, so cruise on up in the morning so you can grab lunch along Jaco’s main street. There’s no shortage of delicious options in almost every style of cuisine. 

Jaco is situated on the Pacific coast and has everything a beach lover’s heart could desire: world-class surfing and lots of sunshine. Whether you’re looking to relax and recharge, or you’re seeking a bit of an adventure, Jaco has you covered. Jaco is friendly and has a bustling atmosphere. Jaco is a famous spot for surfing lessons due to the long, rolling waves.

Either stay in Jaco or head to Los Sueños just north to stay at either a vacation rental or at the Marriott Los Sueños. We love their enormous resort pool overlooking Herradura Bay and checking out the yachts and million-dollar fishing boats in the marina. This is a great spot for kids and it’s pet friendly. 

Day 5: Adventures in Los Sueños 

The Los Sueños in Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure-seekers. Nature enthusiasts will love the hiking and horseback riding trails that lead to breathtaking vistas of the rainforest and Carara National Park, while adrenaline junkies will find their fix with ocean view zip-lining and ATV tours. 

Afterward, we like to head back to the Marriott Los Sueños for dinner and a late night swim in the beautifully lit pool area. There’s also a swim-up bar, hey!

Day 6: Los Sueños to La Fortuna 

Have breakfast at Hacienda Kitchen, the Marriott’s sumptuous breakfast buffet and pack up the car. Plan to stop at the grocery store on the corner to stock up on drinks and snacks. Good thing Vamos Rent-a-Car provides a cooler!

This is the longest drive of the itinerary, clocking in at about 3-4 hours for 90 miles. In Costa Rica, the main thing to remember is drive times are an approximation because roads and traffic are highly variable. It’s an easy enough drive, but there are some winding roads and blind corners, so make sure to pay attention. If you get stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle, remember PURA VIDA. 

There are some excellent stops on this drive including the Nectandra Cloud Forest Reserve, a great alternative if you don’t have time to make it to Monteverde.

TIP: Holidays tend to lead to traffic jams in Costa Rica, so plan ahead to ensure you aren’t doing the majority of your driving when everyone else is. (Ex: the Sunday of a long weekend will be slow going on the way back to San Jose!)

Reward yourself for the excellent driving and sooth any tense muscles with a dip in the volcanic hot springs baths all over the area. Many hotels have their own or you can snag a day pass to some of the upscale ones. We recently stayed at Nayara Gardens, one of three hotels in one large complex in La Fortuna. I loved that if you stay at one, you have access to the restaurants, pools and hot springs at the other two – Nayara Tented Camp and Nayara Springs. There’s an incredible view of Arenal from an infinity pool at the top of the resort. We booked a villa room with our own plunge pool, a gorgeous outdoor shower and a wraparound balcony with hammocks. It was absolutely worth the splurge. The service was great. I loved how secluded it felt even though it’s a pretty big property. We saw sloths and toucans just hanging around at the pool. If you’re thinking about booking, I say do it. I’m really glad we did.

There are many, many accommodation options to choose from in the Arenal region, so I recommend deciding on a budget and a general vibe and going from there. Check out more options on where to stay near Arenal volcano.

Day 7: Arenal Activities 

There’s so much to do in La Fortuna, the town town east of Arenal Volcano National Park, which of course is home to the captivating Arenal Volcano, breathtaking waterfalls and a variety of thrilling activities. Most tour operators and tourist services can be found in La Fortuna, the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park.

At this point in the itinerary I recommend assessing your energy and deciding if you want to go hard and cram more activities in, or maybe spend a day soaking in the hot springs and getting a massage at your resort. There’s no judgment here – all vacation activities are valid!

I wanted to try something I’d never done before on this trip, so we booked Pure Trek’s Canyoning and Waterfall Rappelling adventure. It was LEGIT. Not for anyone with a fear of heights as you absolutely do step backward off multiple cliffs. I’m not scared of heights but my heart was racing! It was a blast though and I felt so accomplished afterward.

If you want to get out there and hit it hard, I recommend combining three adventurous activities in one tour: a hike to Arenal Volcano, visit to the Hanging Bridges and exploring La Fortuna Waterfall. This full-day tour from La Fortuna includes hiking and swimming amidst Costa Rica’s beautiful natural scenery. If you’ve never done an ATV Tour, Arenal is a perfect place for your first experience. Same for white water rafting! There are a variety of rivers nearby from mild to wild so you can choose your own adventure. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included in many of these tours.

Day 8: Arenal National Park

You’ve probably seen Costa Rica’s iconic volcano on a postcard, and by this time in your trip, hopefully the clouds will have cleared enough to give you a view of Arenal’s peak. Currently dormant, it’s just a matter of time before Arenal awakens once more. With its proximity to the charming town of La Fortuna and the national park, Arenal presents the ideal introduction to the natural wonders of Costa Rica. 

TIP: Look out for bullet ants! I did not know about these wicked critters until one both stung me and bit me at the same time. It was then I found out that bullet ants have the most painful sting of any insect in the world. NOT AWESOME. Trust me: this is not an experience you want to add to your Costa Rica itinerary. Always look where you put your hand BEFORE you do it!

Spend a half day on a guided hike of the Arenal Volcano learning the history of the volcano from its first eruption in 1968. It’s a moderate 1.5 km to the viewpoint, with magnificent views of the Green Lagoon and Lake Arenal. Along the way you’ll see the wildlife including toucans, monkeys and snakes.

Day 9: Drive back to San Jose

If you have time, I recommend one last hot spring soak or even a massage to get you ready for your drive back to San Jose. Depending on traffic, time of day and where you’re staying in the city, it could take anywhere from 2.5-4 hours to get there.

It’s a great day to explore San Jose! There’s rich culture and history to be found in the vibrant city center. After all that wilderness and wildlife, coming back to a trendy urban atmosphere adds a unique touch to this 10-day Costa Rica itinerary. If you have time and energy left, squeeze in the Spirogyra Butterfly Garden in Barrio Amón or the Simón Bolivar Botanical Garden & Zoo right next door.

Afterwards, make your way to either Mercado Borbón or Mercado Central to explore the diverse selection of fruits and vegetables. These bustling markets are not only perfect for picking up a delicious and affordable lunch, but they also provide an authentic glimpse into the local city life of Costa Rica.

San Jose Tours You Might Like:

• Bites, Sights and Markets
• San Jose by Night: Food and Culture
• Guided City Tour

In San Jose, we like to stay near the airport for convenience. Here are some options!

Day 10: Head home

It’s time to buy any last minute souvenirs, pack your bags and drop your rental car back at the Vamos office. Their free shuttle will take you to SJO to catch your flight. Easy peasy!

WHEW! As you can tell, this is a jam-packed itinerary, designed to get the most out of just 7-10 days in Costa Rica. If you have a bit more time, I recommend slowing down and spending extra nights at each stop to really soak it in and experience Pura Vida. Or consider adding on a side trip to the Osa Peninsula or Tortuguero National Park.

So there you have it: a comprehensive but efficient 10-day Costa Rica itinerary. From activities in stunning nature to cultural immersion and exploration, you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground and take away more meaningful experiences from your trip. Whether you stay on the tourist trail or opt for a more off the beaten path route, you’ll never be bored thanks to the many attractions available throughout the country. 

Are you planning a trip to Costa Rica soon? What do you think of this 10-day Costa Rica itinerary? Tell me in the comments!

Updated for 2026

Are you a fan of the hit NBC show, The Office? Then you won’t want to miss this Scranton The Office self-guided tour, where you can visit iconic locations like Poor Richard’s Pub, the Steamtown Mall and Cooper’s Seafood. And it’s an easy day trip from Philadelphia or NYC!

I don’t know about y’all, but I have a serious addition to watching The Office over and over again. If you’ve never seen it, please, stop reading this and GO WATCH IT. Feel free to skip the episode entitled “Scott’s Tots” unless you can handle a major dose of cringe.

Because we are such big Dunderheads, we always hoped to visit Scranton, the Paris of northeastern Pennsylvania, to immerse ourselves in the world of Michael, Jim, Pam and Dwight. While in New York to speak at TBEX and our epic Niagara Falls adventure, we did what any superfan would do. We rented a car, bought a mustard-colored shirt and took The Jet Sisters show on the road to The Electric City!

Obviously, there were many, many quotes uttered. You don’t just watch a show 700 times and NOT memorize just about every line.

Hey Superfan! Need The Office gifts and merchandise? We’ve got a list of our favorites, from Dunder Mifflin shirts and mugs to the sparkly Prison Mike throw pillows you didn’t know you needed!

Where is Scranton?

Scranton, Pennsylvania, in the Lackawanna River Valley, is best known as the fictional home of Dunder Mifflin in the hit TV show The Office, but this former coal-mining hub has more than pop culture ties to offer. With a rich industrial history, charming architecture and a growing arts scene, Scranton blends blue-collar grit with unexpected character. Visitors can explore museums like the Electric City Trolley Museum, check out historic train cars at Steamtown National Historic Site or grab a bite at real-life spots featured on The Office. It’s a small city with big personality and plenty of quirky appeal. It’s just over 2 hours from both Philadelphia and New York City, making it an easy day trip from either location.

Was The Office Filmed in Scranton?

Most of The Office filming locations, including the office and the park, were filmed in Los Angeles. The show was just set in Scranton. However, they did a very good job at replicating small-town Pennsylvania and included many real-life businesses that you can visit on your own Scranton Office tour.

One of my favorite parts of The Office is how even though it’s filmed mostly in Los Angeles, they weave in so many tiny details that make it oh-so Lackawanna County. We found lots of these little Easter eggs just from our mini road trip to Scranton.

For example in “The Merger,” Dwight and Michael rap about Scranton’s reputation as the Electric City, and we never really gave any thought to the history. But electric lights were introduced in 1880 at Dickson Locomotive Works and a few years later, electric streetcars were operating all over town. The “Electric City” nickname stuck all these years later, and you can still see the bright Electric City neon sign downtown. What a reputation to uphold, and so funny that Dwight and Michael get to rap about it.

Need a custom bobblehead like Dwight’s… but of you or a friend? Check out Whoopass Enterprises! I had one created for my book tour and it gives Dwight vibes in the best possible way.

Click To Make Your Own Bobblehead

Does Dunder Mifflin Scranton Actually Exist?

Dunder Mifflin Scranton is a completely fictional company. However, the Pennsylvania Paper & Supply Company is housed in a building that fans will recognize as the iconic Dunder Mifflin tower, though the owners of the family business are quick to confirm that “we’re not the colorful oddballs of The Office“.

5 The Office Locations You Can Actually Visit in Scranton

Of course, we knew before we visited that most of the actual filming locations are in L.A., including the office park and just about everything else, but we’ve compiled a list of real locations you can find in Scranton. So if you’re in Philadelphia or NYC or the surrounding area, take an extra day to swing by and pay homage to Michael and Stanley, Jim, Dwight, Creed, Andy and Kelly… for your business paper needs. Check out the following locations for The Office in Scranton.

Poor Richard’s Pub

125 Beech St, Scranton, PA 18505

Before you stand in the parking lot looking confused like we did, Poor Richard’s Pub doesn’t look the same way as it does in the show. The scenes were filmed at Pickwick’s Pub in California, but the real pub is located inside a bowling alley. It’s worth a quick visit to snap a photo.

Don’t pull a “Roy” and destroy the place though – that really irritates the staff.

Cooper’s Seafood

701 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18509

How amazing is it that you can grab lunch in the same place Holly and Michael argued about Meredith’s ethics?! We don’t often see Cooper’s Seafood in the show, but the writers name-drop it a ton.

The real restaurant is a popular spot in town with a heavily seafood-focused menu and quirky decor. There’s a gift shop inside with tons of The Office merchandise. Even if you don’t eat here, it’s a good place to stop in and buy souvenirs, like Dundies, employee IDs and Dunder Mifflin s.w.a.g. (stuff we all get).

If you’re a super fan, visiting Scranton is a unique way to squeeze a little more life out of your obsession with The Office. One thing to note: there aren’t just tons of places to buy merch – honestly, we were lucky to find anything decent outside of Cooper’s gift shop. So if you are going, get your gear BEFOREHAND so you are prepared for anything. Like a “Michael Scott’s Dunder Mifflin Scranton Meredith Palmer Memorial Celebrity Rabies Awareness Pro-Am Fun Run Race For The Cure” or even a visit to Lake Scranton.

Feel free to shout, “I DECLARE BANKRUPTCY” or “THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID” while wearing a Michael Scott badge. Go ahead, let it all out. The Office Scranton

The Steamtown Mall

300 Lackawanna Ave, Scranton, PA 18503

The Steamtown Mall (now called the Marketplace at Steamtown) does exist, but you won’t find Victoria’s Secret or Jitterz (replaced by a candy store) inside. In fact, there are no major brand-name stores in the mall.

Sadly, it’s a relatively dead spot with a few shops but not a whole lot going on. BUT you will find the Scranton sign (from the opening of the show), and that alone makes it worth a visit.

There was no one around so we were able to act as ridiculous as we wanted without feeling too silly.

Alfredo’s Pizza Cafe

1040 S Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18505

Not to be confused with Pizza by Alfredo (a hot circle of garbage), this cafe is a must-do lunch spot for ‘The Office” fans. The Office Scranton

If you recall the episode “Launch Party,” Michael messes up a party by ordering from the wrong place, Pizza by Alfredo, which Kevin says “is like eating a circle of hot garbage.” Michael ends up taking the delivery boy hostage and eventually the employees order from the good pizza place, Alfredo’s Pizza Cafe.

In real-life Scranton, this classic Italian eatery offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, pastas and pizzas. We ate there and think Kevin was onto something. No hot garbage here!

Pennsylvania Paper & Supply

215 Vine St, Scranton, PA 18501

Unfortunately, Scranton Business Park and Dunder Mifflin don’t exist in real life, though many think the Pennsylvania Paper & Supply Company is the office for The Office. There is a little reminder at the very top of the tower – so look closely! The Off

We popped into Pennsylvania Paper & Supply in our Dwight gear and the employees were so friendly! They have signed photos from the cast and a real Dwight bobblehead from Rainn Wilson himself. And the company gives out free posters to all fans of the show.

Continue Your Scranton Office Tour

We only had a day for our tour of the Electric City, so we weren’t able to get to all locations mentioned in the show. Here are some additional places you can visit on your self-guided tour of The Office locations.

• Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour
• Anthracite Heritage Museum
• Electric City Trolley Museum
• The University of Scranton
• Scranton Letter Mural
• Andy Gavin’s Eatery & Pub
• Backyard Ale House
• The Bog
• Lake Wallenpaupack (a short drive away)

You can see a map with all of these locations (and more) on the Visit NEPA “The Office” Self-Guided Tour Map.

The Office Murals in Scranton

The saddest part about this tour? The two outstanding murals honoring The Office weren’t yet painted, so we didn’t get to check them out in person. But here are the details so you can!

The Office: The Story of Us Mural, 503 Lackawanna Ave

Downtown Scranton is home to a can’t-miss stop for fans of The Office – an enormous mural titled “The Office: The Story of Us.” Officially recognized by NBC, Peacock and all 17 cast members, this 86-foot-wide, 27-foot-tall tribute features fan-favorite characters and unforgettable scenes from the beloved series. As the only mural of its kind in the world, it’s a standout on both the Lackawanna County Mural Trail and any self-guided Office tour.

Dwight Schrute Mural, 1138 Capouse Avenue

On Capouse Avenue in Scranton, the Dwight Schrute Mural by artist Mike Trovato brings one of The Office’s most iconic characters to life in bold color and detail. This vibrant tribute captures Dwight’s oddball personality and beet-farming pride, making it a favorite stop for fans of the show. The mural is easy to find and hard to miss, standing out as both a work of art and a pop culture landmark. Surrounded by local shops and walkable streets, it’s a great spot for photos and a fun way to experience Scranton’s ties to the beloved series.

Is a Scranton “The Office’ Self-Guided Tour Worth It?

If we’re being honest, our favorite way to see Scranton is from the comfort of our couch, remote in hand. We’re glad we took this road trip, but would we do it again? Only if the original cast had some sort of epic reunion. Now that would be worth it.

If you’re anything like us, you know a guided tour is worth all the self-guided, aimless wanderings you can do on your own. Happy to report since our last visit to Scranton, NEPA Tour Co. has launched guided tours for Office fans. They’re 90 minutes and super reasonably priced – a MUST DO in Scranton! Check pricing and availability here.

Where to Stay in Scranton, Pennsylvania

If you’re heading into the Electric City to do some rapping of your own, or perhaps shopping at the Steamtown Mall, check out these hotels in the heart of the area.

• Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel Scranton
• Hilton Scranton & Conference Center
• Fairfield Inn Scranton

Are you surprised to hear most of “The Office” wasn’t actually filmed in Scranton?

Can you see why I loved my PR job so much?!

I visited The Bahamas a few dozen times over the years, seeing more of the expansive island nation than even most residents ever get to. I love meeting Bahamians when I visit and rattling off all the islands I’ve been to – their jaws hit the floor when I get to Inagua and San Salvador!

Over many years and many visits, I met the best people, swam in the clearest water, learned to scuba dive, drank Kalik, swam with pigs, tasted every iteration of conch, and worked my tail off, so really no one was surprised when I just continued loving The Bahamas long after my time as their publicist ended. Years later, we started planning our own Bahamas vacations, and even got married in Abaco and honeymooned in Exuma. If you’ve been following a while you know the wedding didn’t go quite according to plan, but I’m still so glad we got to introduce our friends and families to the islands.

Once folks find out how much I love The Bahamas, there’s always a follow up question, “Which island is your favorite?”

That’s like choosing a favorite child, y’all. Each one is special and each one has it’s own quirks and often a totally different vibe than the island next door. 

Why is Now the Best Time to Plan a Bahamas Vacation?

You might think I’m crazy, but the truth is there’s never been a better time to visit The Islands of The Bahamas.

Yes, Grand Bahama and Abaco, two of the most populous and popular islands, experience the worst hurricane in memory with Hurricane Dorian and are in the recovery process, but that’s only part of the story. Many reports in the media portrayed the entire country as destroyed. In reality, there are hundreds of islands and cays that had 0% impact from Dorian. And those islands really need our help in the next few years.

What the Bahamians are dealing with right now is unprecedented. From Bimini to San Salvador to Inagua, it’s business as usual… almost. Tourism has slowed because many potential travelers believe the whole country was destroyed.

What The Bahamas need now is a wave of tourism like they’ve never seen before!

As you plan out your vacation days and time off, would you consider planning a Bahamas vacation? Tourism is the No. 1 economic driver in the country, so even a minor dip in visitors makes a big impact to everyone who works at a hotel, or at a tour operator, a fishing or diving outfitter, restaurants, the airport, etc. And to all their families. With more than 50 percent of residents employed by tourism, this is a BIG deal.

Where are The Bahamas?

Not only do the Bahamians desperately need visitors to return after Hurricane Dorian, but the bonus is that it’s actually one of the most beautiful places on earth and it only takes 45 minutes to get there by air from Miami. Really! 

What most people don’t realize is how much ground The Bahamas really cover. To give you an idea, the northernmost point of The Bahamas starts up near West Palm Beach and the southernmost point is parallel to Cuba and almost to Haiti. That’s a HUGE area sprawling over more than 500 miles. And just think, if a hurricane hits Cuba, does that mean you cancel travel to South Florida? Of course not.

So there’s no reason to avoid planning a Bahamas vacation now!

How to Get to The Bahamas

The Bahamas are so easy to get to from the U.S., particularly the eastern seaboard. Nassau is the largest airport and has the most flights, but there are also plenty of smaller flights throughout the day from major Florida airports into the Out Islands. The vast majority of the country’s international airports are open with no issues following Hurricane Dorian. Search for Bahamas flights.

Select Bahamas Airports with International Air Service

• Nassau/Paradise Island – Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA)
• Bimini – South Bimini Airport (BIM) 
• Eleuthera – North Eleuthera Airport (ELH)
• Long Island – Stella Maris Airport (SML) and Deadman’s Cay Airport (LGI) 
• Exuma – Exuma International Airport (GGT)

What to Know About Hurricane Season in The Bahamas

As a native Floridian, I suspect I have a more lackadaisical approach to traveling during hurricane season than most. I wouldn’t hesitate to plan say, a wedding, during hurricane season — but I wouldn’t dare do that without travel insurance. The weather is gorgeous 95% of the time throughout Atlantic hurricane season, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the radar from May to November. August through October tend to be the peak of the season (and many properties close up during this time for annual maintenance), but with the weather as crazy as it’s been, there are just no guarantees. Statistically speaking though, chances are slim you’ll encounter a hurricane, and if you do, there are systems in place to get you out safely.

If you want to visit during hurricane season, I say go for it – just be prepared with insurance and a backup plan in case a storm is brewing. Usually if you have to cancel a trip due to a storm, you’ll get a refund. Take a note though! Insurance usually has to be purchased before a storm is named. 

Things To Do In The Bahamas

1. Roll Your Own Cigars in a Historic Pirate Mansion in Nassau

Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas and the majority of its 300,000 residents live here. When most people say they’ve “been to The Bahamas,” they usually mean they stopped in Nassau’s bustling cruise port for a day. But there’s much more than cruise excursions here!

Explore hotels in Nassau

When I’m in Nassau, I love staying at Graycliff. It’s one of my favorite hotels in the world! It’s the kind of place with character embedded down to the studs. There’s an incredible 5-star restaurant onsite that you absolutely must check out, a cigar-rolling factory where you can roll up your own for later and 20 gorgeous rooms, all tucked away in the historic heart of the island. Check availability and pricing at Graycliff Hotel.

2. Party All Night on Paradise Island

If you’ve seen any reality TV show filmed in The Bahamas, you’ll probably recognize aerial shots of Atlantis, the gargantuan mega resort with a massive aquarium, enormous lagoon, mega water park, sprawling casino — are you understanding that this place is BIG?!

It’s such a fun property with so much to do, technically you never need to leave. Of course I recommend you do, as the rest of The Bahamas are even better, but there’s nothing wrong with some resort-style fun, too. Explore hotels on Paradise Island.

Nassau/Paradise Island Tours You Might Like:

• Atlantis Aquaventure Day with Lunch
• Nassau Rum and Food Tour
• Private Sportfishing Charter

3. Dive into the Abyss on Long Island

You absolutely can’t go wrong on Long Island, especially if you want relaxation with a side of adventure. That’s just my speed especially when Rick and I are traveling together.

On our last trip to Long Island, Bahamas, we divided our time between trekking around the island, swimming in Dean’s Blue Hole (only 600 ft., no big deal) and searching for the elusive Gray Ghost on the flats. Explore hotels on Long Island.

4. Honeymoon on Romantic Great Exuma

We did! Having visited Exuma many times before, we chose Sandals Emerald Bay as our honeymoon hotel. We wanted easy, simple and a butler to bring us Kalik at the pool – and we got all that! Sadly, the Sandals is no longer there, having switched to a more family friendly all-inclusive. We decided for our next visit to Exuma, we’ll stay in an oceanfront Airbnb or perhaps another hotel overlooking Emerald Bay. You really can’t go wrong in Exuma!

5. Feed Friendly Stingrays with your Toes on Stocking Island

Just across Elizabeth Harbour from mainland is Exuma is one of the most laidback, fun places to grab a Bahama Mama and chill for the day, aptly named Chat ‘N’ Chill. It’s a quick ferry ride from Great Exuma to Stocking Island to paradise, with white sand, clear water, sand volleyball, friendly dolphins and stingrays who swim right up to say hello. If you’re brave enough, you can feed them with conch or pieces of fish, either from your flat open hand or between your toes. (It’s not scary – just go for it!) 

And let me tell you about the food. They have a famous pig roast which is great if you’re there on a Sunday, but if not you can’t go wrong with KB’s conch burger. It’s heaven on earth! Explore hotels throughout the Exumas.

6. Swim with Piggies in Staniel Cay

Speaking of pigs, swimming with the pigs in Exuma may be the most popular activity in all of The Bahamas right now! While floating piggy experiences have popped up all over the country, these ones near Staniel cay are the OGs. They’re not super easy to get to, so if you’re interested in ticking them off your travel bucket list, check out my tips for Swimming with the Pigs in Exuma.

You can book day trips via boat from Exuma or Nassau, or fly into Staniel Cay’s tiny airstrip,stay at EMBRACE Resort and rent a boat on your own. Explore hotels in Staniel Cay, Bahamas.

Tip No. 1: Don’t forget snacks. These little piggies love lettuce, apples and all sorts of produce!

Tours and Activities you might like in the Exumas: 

• ATV Tour of Great Exuma
• Pig to Plane Tour from Nassau
• Multiday Tall Ship Island Hopping Cruise

7. Hang Ten at Surfer’s Beach in Eleuthera

The Bahamas are known for shallow, clear water, but if you know where to go, you can find a good surf break or two. Surfer’s Beach on Eleuthera is the best known spot to catch a wave – even my dear old Dad surfed there in the 80s.

The best surf happens from October to April, and Eleuthera has options – point breaks, reef breaks, beach breaks galore. Explore hotels in Eleuthera.

8. Experience a Pink Sunset on a Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island

There are thousands of amazing spots to snag a sunset in The Bahamas, but one of my top picks is Pink Sands Beach on compact, stylish Harbour Island. There’s nothing more dazzling than the pink sand reflecting a fiery sunset and deep jade water. Explore accommodations in Harbour Island.

Harbour Island Day Trip from Nassau

9. Dive for Treasures in Andros

Like Exuma, Andros comprises hundreds of smaller islands and cays, but the three main islands are North Andros, Mangrove Cay and South Andros.

Fun fact: Andros is the 6th largest island in the West Indies, and Andros has is a larger land area than all other Bahamian islands combined. It’s big and largely undeveloped and unexplored.

Bonefishing on the flats and sportfishing in the Tongue of the Ocean are two of Andros’ biggest draws, but it’s also a haven for scuba divers. There are wrecks, reefs, caves and dramatic 100 ft. wall dives – a little something for every diver. And it doesn’t hurt that Andros is never crowded. 

Don’t forget to scoop up some hand-crafted Androsia batik in Fresh Creek. The colorful prints may as well be the official uniform of The Bahamas, so it’s a great souvenir as a shirt, sarong or even tablecloth. Explore accommodations in Andros

10. Frolic with a Flamingo Flock in Inagua

Inagua is in the southernmost Bahamas, an area I like to call the Bahamas Outback. There’s not much in the way of shiny megaresorts or activities here, but if you are an eco-tourist or a birdwatcher, it’s the place to be. There are 80,000 West Indian Flamingos, 140 types of pelicans, hummingbirds and parrots, some of which are not found anywhere else on earth, and three national parks.

Don’t miss the original hand-cranked, kerosene lighthouse for a dose of old Bahamas. Explore hotels on Inagua.

11. Get off the Grid in Crooked Island & Acklins

If you want to be the only person on the beach or the one one out there on the flats searching for bonefish, Crooked and Acklins are a great choice. Together with Long Cay they form an atoll that’s practically the same as it was when Columbus made landfall. If you’re looking to get off the grid, these sister islands are a perfect place to do it. Explore bonefishing lodges and accommodations on Crooked Island & Acklins

12. Check Off Your Dive Bucket List in Bimini

I’ve only been to Bimini once, but I’m itching to go back. There’s an amazing Great Hammerhead dive just waiting for me at Neil Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center! It’s only available only during the winter months, which reminds me that perhaps I should go book that right now. Explore hotels in Bimini.

13. “Climb” The Bahamas’ Tallest Mountain in Cat Island

Mountain climbing isn’t something you’ll get the chance to do in The Bahamas, but if you want to try, you’ve got to visit The Hermitage atop Mt. Alvernia, the country’s highest point. It’s a popular hike and pretty easy as hikes go, and the view of turquoise seas all around is breathtaking. Explore hotels on Cat Island.

WHEW! I’m almost 3,000 words in and not even close to done, but I am tired, so I am going to save some of my other favorite islands in The Bahamas to update later. Mayaguana, Rum Cay, San Salvador – I’m looking at you!

I’m not asking you to sell all your belongings and do volunteer work 10,000 miles away. In fact, this may be the easiest “charity” work you’ve ever done.

Pick an island, book a trip and know that your dollars absolutely will make a big, big difference to a country that really could use a hand right now. 

Visit Florida recently announced that more than 142 million guests visited Florida in 2024 – breaking the record set the previous year and not showing any signs of slowing down. That’s no surprise to those of us who live here. With 67,000 square miles of pristine beaches, farmland, islands, marshes, lakes, rivers and yes, the best theme parks in the world, Florida has a lot to offer visitors.

Chances are good if you travel at all, at some point, your journey will bring you here to the Sunshine State. And then you’ll be on the hunt for the best hotels in Florida! 

Choosing The Best Hotels in Florida

Florida pretty much has it going on, so how do you even choose where to go or where to stay when planning a Florida vacation? Not a day goes by when I don’t get questions on Instagram and here on the blog about where to stay in Florida.

What most folks don’t understand before they come: FLORIDA IS HUGE! I’ve lived here on and off my whole life and still haven’t seen everything. My Florida bucket list is ever-growing! So the key to visiting Florida successfully is to take your time and come back again and again. To really do Disney, you need a week. To really do Universal, another week. The Keys? Another week. Miami? All the best beaches in Florida? You know where I’m going with this. You should just move here.

I’m kidding. Don’t move here, y’all.

But do come visit. A day here and a day there is not enough to really experience the best of Florida.

To help you plan, I figured why not put my favorite hotels in Florida in one easy spot to share with all of you because there are 483,431 hotel and motel rooms and nearly 5,000 properties, with more in the works – always. As you can imagine, not all are created equal and it’s not always easy to separate the amazing experiences from the average ones. If you’re going to come all this way, I want you to fall in love with your Florida accommodations – beachfront, lakefront or next to a steaming volcano – every bit as much as you love the beach, the fishing, the diving or the roller coasters.

Be advised: I’ve stayed at every single one of these Florida hotels at some point in my lifetime, some as part of editorial trips, some for marketing campaigns, some while working on PR projects and some on the rare vacation. These are my top choices from hundreds of nights in Florida hotels, chosen with care to help you plan!

Also note, I’ll be adding to this list as I encounter even more of Florida’s coolest hotels this year, so even if you’re not planning a Florida road trip right now, bookmark this article or Pin it for later!

NORTH FLORIDA HOTELS

Let’s start with my home turf! We don’t have nearly as many unique accommodations to choose from compared to say, Orlando or Miami, but we have some real gems on the First Coast.

RELATED: 10 Things to do in Jacksonville

Pro Tip: North Florida’s beaches are more rugged and rather less turquoise than some of our southern neighbors, however what they lack in water clarity they make up for in peace, quiet and significantly smaller crowds and traffic.

Casa Monica

95 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Let’s start at the beginning – the oldest European settlement in North America, lovely St. Augustine. The Casa Monica is part of the Autograph Collection and definitely a jewel in the crown. Built in 1888, the hotel features Moorish Revival/Spanish Baroque-style architecture and design and has hosted dignitaries like the King and Queen of Spain and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. If you’re looking to live like royalty the Old City, the Casa Monica is the place to do it.

Check out my post on where to stay in St. Augustine for more options.

Check prices & availability here 

One Ocean Resort (Rebranding in process)

1 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

One Ocean has a lot going for it – world class restaurant Azurea, soothing decor and Jacksonville’s only oceanfront spa. But what sets this hotel apart from all the rest is the unparalleled service, from the valet to your personal docent who looks after your every need. You don’t have to park your car and make your way to a check-in line for a credit card exchange and run-down of amenities either. At One Ocean, you roll up, your valet presents a room key and you’re done. Go straight to your cozy room overlooking the Atlantic.

You have the option to interact with a docent before you arrive, so you can have a customized minibar awaiting with snacks of your choice. It’s my favorite place in town for a luxurious staycation and one of the top spots I recommend to folks who come to visit.

Check prices & availability here

Casa Marina

691 First Street North, Jacksonville Beach

Did you know Jacksonville used to be Florida’s version of Hollywood? In the Golden Age, jazz was king and silent film studios attracted big names like Jean Harlow, Al Capone and John D. Rockefeller to our balmy beaches in the winter. Opened in 1925, Casa Marina was the grandest ticket in town, but now it’s the only remaining property from Jacksonville’s brief time as a celeb hotspot.

Today it’s a beachfront boutique with 23 bedrooms and parlor suites, renovated in Spanish-Mediterranean architecture and reopened in 1991. 

RELATED: Love a good historic hotel? Check out some of these other historic Florida properties.

Check prices & availability here

Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

4750 Amelia Island Pkwy, Amelia Island, FL 32034

I cannot overstate how much I love this resort! It’s a luxurious but understated escape in the middle of windswept sand dunes and twisted coastal pines. It’s possible that Salt, the Ritz-Carlton’s onsite restaurant, is my favorite in all of North Florida. THE STEAK, you guys! I’m obsessed.

But there’s something I like even more than the steak… and you won’t be surprised to know it’s the spa. When you visit, definitely plan at least a full day to indulge in treatments and the private spa pool area.

Check prices & availability here

Margaritaville Jacksonville Beach

So full disclosure, I have not had a chance to stay at the Margaritaville Hotel in Jacksonville Beach just yet, but you know how it is when it’s in your own hometown. No time for a staycation! But I did want to give the property an honorable mention as it’s a new build right on the Atlantic Ocean and right next door to Casa Marina. So if you’re feeling like Old Hollywood, check out Casa Marina, and if you’re feeling like margaritas and some Jimmy Buffet, then check out the oceanfront suites and pool, beach cruiser and SUP rentals and restaurants/bars. Margaritaville is walking distance to Jax and Neptune Beach hotspots, too.

Love that whole Margaritaville vibe? Check out our experience onboard the Margaritaville at Sea cruise.

Check prices and availability here

Looking for a place to stay with more guests or perhaps pets? Check out these waterfront vacation rentals in North Florida.

HOTELS IN THE PANHANDLE

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa

Looking for a gorgeous beachfront resort on the Gulf of Mexico? Rick and I recently celebrated our anniversary with a Florida road trip to the Hilton Sandestin and absolutely could not get over the Gulf Coast sunsets from our balcony. Between the fiery sunsets, the calm emerald water and pure white sand, we were in Floridian heaven. If you haven’t been to the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, my goodness – book a flight! They’re stunning any time of year, and perfect for sandcastle building, stand-up paddleboarding or just vegging with in a chair with a good book. 

The Hilton Sandestin is a big favorite of families due to the cute, kid-sized bunk beds in the Deluxe Suites. With indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, the property is a safe bet even on the rare rainy day. For those traveling for romantic purposes like we were, a super relaxing couples Ocean Wave massage at Serenity by the Sea Spa was just the ticket. I personally loved the anti-gravity chairs in the back of the ladies lounge.

Check prices & availability here

Need more space? Have a few pets? Check out these upscale vacation rentals in Florida’s Panhandle. 

CENTRAL FLORIDA HOTELS

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

6550 Adventure Way, Orlando, FL 32819

A beach in Orlando? Yes, and it’s right next to an erupting volcano!

Cabana Bay has a fun, colorful 50s/60s retro theme and is right next door to Volcano Bay Water Theme Park. If your priority is waterpark-centric, it’s an ideal base. It’s one of the most affordable of Universal’s onsite properties, but it’s still super comfortable and convenient. For families, there are suites that sleep up to six in a room with a kitchenette and separate living room. For anyone traveling with 4+, Cabana Bay is a great choice!

As with all the Universal Orlando hotels, the property itself is a playground. You could stay at the hotel all day and have just as much fun as you would at the parks themselves — and you should absolutely factor that in! Enjoy the two pools, lazy river, waterslides, bowling alley and more. While there is no water taxi service at Cabana Bay, there are super easy and free buses or you can cross over to Sapphire Falls to pick up a water taxi there. Buses drop off at the main entrance to CityWalk, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. It’s all so easy. For info on ALL the hotels at Universal Orlando, check out my post: 7 Reasons to Stay at Universal’s Onsite Hotels.

Check prices & availability here

Reunion Resort

7593 Gathering Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34747

Last year, we stayed at Reunion Resort just up the road from Disney. Depending on what kind of trip you’re on (big family fun, couples getaway, etc.), Reunion has an impressive selection of 1-13 bedroom homes in additional to a traditional hotel to suit every group.

Plus, even in a huge villa, you get all the fun of a fully equipped resort – playgrounds for the kids, a water park with grown-up swings at the tiki bar, a rooftop restaurant with views of the nightly Disney fireworks and a golf course. Read more about things to do in Kissimmee and our stay at Reunion.

Check prices & availability here

JW Marriott Grand Lakes

4040 Central Florida Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32837

For as swanky and upscale as this property is, what with its luxurious spa and top notch restaurants, it also has a very unexpected outdoorsy side. We took a sunrise golf cart eco-tour of the property and found out that this area is actually the edge of the Florida Everglades. Wildlife abounds and shockingly, so do enormous bass in the lake. You can take fly fishing lessons with the best guide in central Florida, drink cocktails in the lazy river or try falconry school. (Perfect for little wizards excited about Hogwarts!)

There’s also a free shuttle to the theme parks, so you don’t have to worry about parking if Disney or Universal are in your plans.

Check prices & availability here

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

1600 Seven Seas Drive, Orlando, FL 32830

Did you know there are 25 themed hotels on Disney property with more than 30,000 rooms? That’s just an incredible number! I could write a book on Disney’s different resorts and it’s impossible to pick just one that’s the best, but I do have a solid favorite with a special place in my heart – Disney’s Polynesian Village. Partly because all things Hawaiian put an actual, literal grin on my face, and partly because we’ve been going to Ohana for years as a special family treat, the Polynesian is my go-to spot. 

It’s one of the most convenient properties because it’s on the Monorail route, making super easy to get to Magic Kingdom and around the enormous resort. It’s one of the original resorts at Walt Disney World, and it really captures the feeling of being in the South Pacific… if Mickey Mouse lived there with all his friends.

And it’s the only hotel in Florida with overwater bungalows featuring full kitchens and private plunge pools. Full disclosure: they’re over the Seven Seas Lagoon and not the actual South Pacific, but they’re still quite nice. 

Check prices & availability here

Castle Hotel

8629 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

Need a hotel near Universal? The Castle Hotel is a treasure hidden in plain sight! How I missed this lovely spot in my 10,000 visits to Orlando, I’ll never know. It’s right there on International Drive, a cute boutique between T-shirt shops and neon signs touting outlet malls. 

If you’re going to be checking out multiple theme parks (vs. just doing Disney, Universal or SeaWorld, in which case staying on site is ideal), the Autograph Collection’s Castle Hotel could not be better situated. It’s walking distance to the ICON 360 complex and the Convention Center, and so close you could almost touch the new Universal Orlando complex. Read more about our tips on visiting Orlando.

Check prices & availability here

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

1114 Cayman Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

The quickest way to get on island time in Central Florida! Now, don’t get confused as many visitors do. Orlando is NOT on the water, living smack in the center of the state. But never fear – Disney has you covered with the closest thing to a beachfront property in Orlando.

The Caribbean Beach Resort is seemingly cut from paradise and dropped in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort, featuring pirate-themed rooms for the kids and colonial architecture spread out over six villages. There’s also an old Spanish-style citadel with slides and water cannons. A great spot to get a taste of the Caribbean and world-class attractions in one location.

Check prices & availability here

We are obsessed with the theme park hotels, but if a vacation rental is more your style, check out some of our favorite highly rated vacation properties in Orlando.

Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

The Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is a majestic resort set in the heart of America’s playground. Located just 10 miles away from MCO, this luxurious hotel offers 582 guest rooms and suites of extraordinary comfort and quality. Those who stay at the Ritz-Carlton can experience an array of fine dining establishments, as well as recreational activities for kids. To relax and unwind, guests have access to a 40,000-square-foot spa with a salon and 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center. For outdoor activities, the 18 hole Greg Norman designed golf course allows golfers to challenge their skills while enjoying stunning views of the pristine landscape surrounding it. The Ritz Carlton Orlando is the perfect spot for visitors seeking an unforgettable escape in a priceless setting.

Check prices & availability here 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Driving onto the Animal Kingdom Lodge property, you feel as though you’re stepping onto the African continent… not checking into yet another Orlando hotel. As special as all the themed Disney hotels are, this one really stands out. From most rooms, guests can view animals including giraffe, zebra and antelope, as they wander the grounds, nibble leaves and enjoy predator-free safety.

There are four savanna areas and more than 30 species of critters, in addition to swimming pools designed to look like watering holes, a variety of restaurants serving Africa-inspired cuisine and a massive collection of authentic African artwork. If your littles are animal lovers, you have to visit Animal Kingdom Lodge!

Check prices and availability here

The Epicurean

Tampa is known for its vibrant foodie scene, so are you surprised there’s a food-focused boutique hotel to celebrate that heritage? The Epicurean Hotel is designed for the hungry little caterpillar in all of us. There’s even a package called the”Steak-cation”! All guest rooms feature reclaimed wood doors, luxurious rain showers and stocked pantries, and there’s a spa with tasty treatments for body and mouth.

Check prices and availability here

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA HOTELS

Zota Beach Resort, Longboat Key

Excited to add another Southwest Florida hotel to this list, as that’s probably my most neglected area of the state. It’s been ages since I made it over to Florida’s Gulf Coast, where we checked into modern, sleek Zota Beach Resort on Longboat Key for a quick weekend away. As part of the Opal Collection of hotels, Zota Beach Resort offers 187 rooms and a peaceful escape with a prime location on the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico.

We had a spacious suite, with a living room and kitchenette, king bed and extra large shower with some of the best water pressure I can remember. One of the highlights is the private balcony overlooking the Gulf, even though it was chilly during my recent February stay, it was still a treat to sit outside and listen to the wind and waves. I didn’t jump in this time, but the resort’s infinity-edge pool is another standout, with loungers, cabanas, a large hot tub and plenty of places to spend a day in the sun.

Beyond the amenities, Zota’s location makes it easy to explore nearby Sarasota, St. Armands Circle, Bradenton and where there’s plenty of shopping and dining. Longboat Key itself is a quiet, upscale barrier island off Florida’s Gulf Coast, known for its pristine beaches and laid-back vibe, and Zota is right in the middle of the island. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day strolling along soft, white sand or watching a famous Gulf sunset without big crowds. The island feels more residential and relaxed compared to nearby cities, so it really made for perfect for a winter getaway.

Oh, and it’s pet friendly! Next time, we’re bringing the kids!

Check prices and availability for Zota Beach Resort here

4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228

South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island

NOTE! The resort is open again after repairs following Hurricane Ian, but some amenities may have changed. Be sure to confirm details before booking.

A sweet escape! The South Seas Island Resort spans two miles of shell-sprinkled beach on the Gulf of Mexico. At the north end of the resort you’ll find the party: two pools, a marina, tennis courts, restaurants and a poolside bar. On the opposite end, another pool, Starbucks, a restaurant and bike rentals. In between the two bookends is a windy road speckled with all manner of Floridian critters and long stretches of perfect beaches.

I love how rustic and relaxing South Seas is, but there’s plenty to do if you’re feeling froggy. Check out parasailing, beach yoga and sunset cruising to start. Read more about our last visit to Captiva Island here.

Check prices & availability here

5400 Plantation Rd, Captiva, FL 33924

SOUTH FLORIDA HOTELS

When I tell folks I meet around the world that I’m from Florida, they automatically assume I mean Miami. Miami is so impossibly chic – the high rises, the art deco, the yachts, the turquoise water, the skin-tight outfits and never-ending parade of good-looking, very tan people. Anyone from the Sunshine State can tell you, North Florida and South Florida are only in the same category because that’s how the lines were drawn in 1845. I’m always flattered anytime someone thinks I could hack it in a place with so much fashion sense and sex appeal.

Note: Eventually I’ll break this section into two, but I have to visit more hotels first! 

Fontainebleau Miami Beach

4441 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140

Talk about luxury hotels in Florida! You wanna really do it up big in Miami? You have to stay at the historic Fontainebleau!

It’s a Miami icon, originally constructed by world famous architect Morris Lapidus in 1954. It’s been restored to its former glory complete with Ai Wei Wei chandeliers, bowtie tile floors and the most energetic pool parties you can imagine. 

It is my personal dream to stay in the 5-bedroom Sorrento Penthouse one of these days. It’s got two floors, 10,000 square feet, private pool and hot tub and more amenities than all the other hotels on this list combined. Read more about our adventure at the Fontainebleau from a few years back. 

Check prices & availability here

citizenM Miami World Center

700 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, Florida, USA, 33132

If you want to stay right in the middle of the action without paying South Beach prices, this is one of those spots that makes a lot of sense. Located in Downtown Miami, you’re steps from the Kaseya Center, Bayfront Park and the waterfront, which means concerts, games and skyline views are all within easy walking distance.

citizenM leans into a more modern, tech-forward experience. Rooms are compact but smartly designed, with wall-to-wall windows, blackout shades and an iPad that controls everything from lighting to temperature to the TV. The XL king bed takes up most of the space, so this isn’t the hotel you book if you’re planning to spread out with multiple suitcases, but it works well for shorter stays or if you’re barely in the room anyway.

Where it really stands out is in the shared spaces. The rooftop pool and bar overlook the skyline, and it’s exactly where you’ll want to be after a hot Miami day. Downstairs, the 24/7 canteenM keeps things easy with coffee, cocktails and grab-and-go food whenever you need it. There’s also a gym open around the clock and plenty of lounge-style seating if you want to work or just hang out.

This is a great pick for solo travelers, couples on a quick city break or anyone in town for an event who values location and efficiency over extra square footage. Also, if you’re leaving out of Port Miami on a cruise, I don’t think there’s a hotel that’s closer.

Check prices & availability here

The Gates South Beach, A Doubletree Hotel

2360 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139

We stayed here on the way back from our honeymoon in The Bahamas and loved it. Great location in the heart of South Beach – though not on the actual beach, if that’s important to you. It was within walking distance to everything we wanted to do and a pretty quick ride to the airport. Was a nice spot (and so much better than an airport hotel) for a layover night on the way to or from somewhere else. 

Check prices & availability here

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood

The famous guitar hotel! Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is just south of Fort Lauderdale, this AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel offers guests a luxurious getaway with its Green Lodging Certified accommodations and stay, play, and dine resort amenities. Those who visit will be surrounded by an atmosphere of rock memorabilia that creates an exciting and unique experience.

The casino features over 2,000 slots and 200 table games, along with a high-rolling poker room and state-of-the art Race & Sportsbook. Guests can also enjoy exclusive access to the L Bar, as well as live entertainment from nationally acclaimed performers at the Hard Rock Live venue. The property has seven distinct restaurants and lounges.

In addition to the many gaming and dining options available, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood features a variety of accommodation choices ranging from standard rooms to five-star suites that offer guests exclusive access to the Rock Spa. The property also includes fitness centers, swimming pools and kid friendly activities such as an arcade with simulated golf courses, basketball court, mini bowling alley and much more.

Check prices and availability here 

The daily light show is an awe inspiring spectacle that brings this magnificent structure to life. Six high powered beams of LED lights, built into all sides of the hotel, illuminate the night sky in vibrant hues of blue, red, green, purple, yellow and orange. The lights are programmed to change color intensity and choreographed perfectly with a series of curated songs for maximum visual impact. It’s a special experience that no one visiting or living nearby should miss out on.

FLORIDA KEYS HOTELS

I say it often, but it bears repeating: we are so lucky as Floridians to have The Florida Keys just around the corner! They’re easy to get to while still feeling like a whole other country at times. Yes, it’s still the US, but it feels so different. The air is saltier, enormous iguanas lounge along the highway and there are marinas, key lime pie and Hemingway references everywhere you look. And there are so many things to do in the Florida Keys.

It’s an incredible destination for a weeklong family vacation or a Florida Keys girls getaway. 

The Perry Hotel

One of my favorite hotels in the Florida Keys! The Perry Hotel has it all – yacht-filled marina, stylish swimming pools, key lime pie martinis – and it’s just a bridge away from Old Town Key West. Why’s that important? Because if you want to mix crazy nights out with chill, quiet days by the pool, being a bit outside the hustle and bustle is not a bad idea. The Perry has a free, beautifully air-conditioned shuttle that runs throughout the day. Take it into town and never pay for parking or have to have a designated driver.

Key West is a Navy town, so it makes sense that The Perry Hotel derives its inspiration from Commodore Perry, the father of the US Navy. Key West’s seafaring roots are on display in the 288-slip marina and the decor, a mix of nautical touches and ocean artifacts.

Note that The Perry is pet friendly, so you can bring the fur babies.

Check prices and availability here

Hawks Cay Resort

61 Hawks Cay Blvd, Duck Key, FL 33050

The Florida Keys are just about the closest you can get to the Caribbean without a passport. Halfway down the island chain is Duck Cay, the laid-back home to sprawling Hawks Cay Resort, one of the absolute best spots to stay in the Keys. 

After a recent $50 million renovation of the 60-acre property, the place is perfect for families of any size, with 250 multiple-bedroom villas and 177 regular guest rooms. Many villas have their own pools, and there’s a quiet adults-only pool, a kids club and a saltwater lagoon with free kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. You can book all your excursions, from sunset cruises to fishing charters, right onsite, so it’s basically a one-stop shop. Read all about our last family trip to the Florida Keys. 

Check prices & availability here

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

81801 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Cheeca Lodge is one of the most luxurious hotels in the Keys and certainly a top choice on Islamorada, where palm trees sway and the turquoise water is like nowhere else. Once the sun goes down, lights illuminate the water underneath the longest pier in the Keys and you can watch little fish frolic while heat lightning flashes on the horizon. 

In the saltwater lagoon, bioluminescent creatures blink under the surface and the waves gently lap the shore. There are 214 rooms to choose from, with ocean, lagoon or golf course views, and many rooms have private hot tubs on the terrace. It’s an altogether perfectly relaxing place to spend a night… or a week. 

Don’t miss the hot lava shell massage, one of my favorite massages I’ve ever had!

Check prices & availability here

The Laureate Key West

3444 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

We absolutely loved the The Laureate Key West! Reimagined since Hurricane Irma, it’s now an all-suite property featuring crisp, clean, ocean-themed decor. We had three ample bedrooms, two balconies, three bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. It was beyond perfect for our group of six + one pup.

Tip: The Laureate is pet friendly, providing beds and water bowls for the four-legged family members.

And you cannot beat the location! It’s a super easy drive or Uber over to Duval Street, but far away enough from the main crowds.

The pool area was small but in a place like Key West, where you’re often out exploring and spending time on the water anyhow, it was perfect. And, there were tons of poolside amenities like games, towels and complimentary coconut water.

Check prices & availability here 

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas

2801 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Stark white picket fences, bright blue Adirondack chairs and peaceful balconies come standard at Parrot Key. Surrounded by the turquoise sea, secluded swimming pools and art installations, two and three bedroom villas make this centrally located property an ideal spot for a family or group.

While there’s not really a beach, there’s plenty of sandy lounging real estate, four saltwater swimming pools and easy access to the rest of the island where you might find a place to dip in the ocean/gulf. Parrot Key Resort is only about a 10 minute drive from all major attractions.

Check prices & availability here 

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of coolest, unique, epic, favorite hotels in Florida! Did your favorite make the list? If not, share below and I’ll check it out for a future update to this story!

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My husband and I are obsessed with national parks (and locked in a lifelong battle with my sister and her husband to visit all of them FIRST), and the 49th state happens to have eight, so it’s long been a dream destination for both of us. Early September felt like the right time thanks to fall colors, fewer visitors and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. We packed our bags, crossed our fingers for good weather and headed north.

Even in September, when fall colors light up the hillsides and the summer crowds have mostly packed up, Alaska still manages to surprise you at every turn. The weather can swing from chilly sun to sideways rain in a matter of minutes, wildlife does whatever it wants, and the distances between towns are… well, let’s just say you should never skip a gas station.

But that’s exactly what makes an Alaska road trip such an adventure.

Below is everything we did, what we learned, what we wish we knew before visiting and how you can plan a very similar 7-night, 8-day itinerary starting in Fairbanks and ending in Anchorage, jam-packed with Northern Lights chasing, Denali adventures, glacier landings, bear encounters and the world’s chillest reindeer.

The Perfect Alaska Itinerary: When to Visit

I visited Alaska in July many years ago and recently in September, so I’ll tell you – September was an amazing last-minute choice and for me, superior to the height of summer. I don’t actually think you could pull off planning this itinerary with only two weeks’ notice in summer. There are just too many people and the best tours and hotels book up months in advance. If you’re going to be a silly goose and plan last minute, September is probably your best bet. 

And the weather in Alaska in the fall? Well, the days felt warm enough for light layers while others felt like winter was creeping in and my delicate Floridian constitution was offended by the chill.

Pros

• Peak fall colors – whole mountainsides glowing gold
• Much fewer crowds, especially in Denali 
• Better chance for Northern Lights as the days grow shorter. During September, many parts of Alaska lose about 7–9 minutes of daylight each day, especially noticeable in places like Fairbanks or Utqiaġvik. Earlier in the month you might have roughly 13–14 hours of daylight in central Alaska, but by late September it’s closer to 11–12 hours and the nights are noticeably longer.
• Cooler weather = fewer mosquitoes (Alaska’s worst wildlife, tbh) 
• Shoulder-season pricing in some areas

Cons

• Some services shut down for the season often depending on snowfall – this is something to keep a close eye on when driving 
• Shorter daylight hours (good for Northern Lights viewing, bad for squeezing in a ton of daytime activities) 
• Rain and clouds are common

We saw temperatures from about 30 – 50, and because we were there during the solstice, we saw a notable change in the amount of daylight available each day. We lived in fleece layers, shells and waterproof hiking boots. If you go at this time of year, pack more wool socks than you expect to need. I brought 2 jackets, lots of flannel, fleece-lined leggings, gloves and hats – and definitely used them all. 

Getting to Alaska 

Getting to Alaska is easier than you think! There are several options depending on your schedule, travel style and airline loyalty. The most common entry points are Anchorage and Fairbanks, the two major airports with the widest range of domestic connections. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) handles the highest volume of flights – up to 200 per day! – and is a good starting point for itineraries focused on the Kenai Peninsula, Prince William Sound or Anchorage-based excursions. Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) sits farther north and works well for Northern Lights trips or routes that include Denali or the interior.

If you prefer to arrive by water, many travelers choose to visit through an Alaska cruise which typically departs from Seattle or Vancouver then stops in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. Cruises offer an easy way to see coastal Alaska although you will miss the interior unless you add a land extension. Once in Alaska most visitors rent a car since distances are long and public transportation between towns is limited. Rental cars sell out in peak season so booking early helps. If you prefer not to drive, the Alaska Railroad is a scenic and reliable alternative with routes between Anchorage, Fairbanks, Denali, Talkeetna and Seward. Local public transportation works within cities but is not built for long-distance travel which is why many travelers rely on a combination of rental cars, trains or guided day tours to reach the state’s most popular national parks and attractions.

Quick Alaska Facts

• Alaska is twice the size of Texas – don’t expect quick drives.
• There’s more wildlife than people in many regions.
• Gas stations can be 50–100 miles apart. AND BATHROOMS, TOO.
• Cell service is… charmingly inconsistent.
• Layers, waterproof shoes and a good camera are essential.

If you’re planning your own adventures in Alaska, think of logistics as part of the experience and embrace the wildness of it all. My typical trip planning advice includes planning no more than one tour or scheduled activity per day, and that’s especially important in Alaska where there are circumstances you can’t plan for… like, a mama bear and cubs wandering around the parking area where your car is. 

Days 1–3: Home → Fairbanks (FAI ) → Borealis Basecamp

Check in: Borealis Basecamp

After landing in Fairbanks, we caught our pre-booked shuttle up to Borealis Basecamp – a remote, quiet, star-filled escape tucked into the forest. This place has been on my bucket list for years, and if you’re dreaming of watching the aurora from bed, this is the spot.

The clear roof domes were even better than we expected. Private and warm with unobstructed views of the night sky, plus excellent food and lots to do during the day made it well worth the trip north. Even without the aurora, the stillness and the forest around us made the experience feel special.

I wrote a comprehensive review of Borealis Basecamp, so if you’re thinking about booking any of their overnight packages or just popping in for dinner or an activity, start here.

Check pricing and availability at Borealis Basecamp

Things To Do at Borealis Basecamp

Reindeer walk
Walking through the woods with the resident reindeer was gentle and unexpectedly charming. They were calm and curious which made it fun and easy to enjoy.

UTV tour
We rode through open terrain with views of the White Mountains. My husband loved this since he always wants to see what lies just beyond the next ridge.

Ridge sunset outing
A guide drove us to a viewpoint above camp in a tricked out Toyota Tundra where we watched the landscape change color as daylight faded. 

Sauna time
After the chilly ride the sauna felt amazing. We stayed longer than planned because it was so relaxing. Bookable in 1-hour increments and includes robes.

Meals
As much a part of the experience as any of the activities! You have to have dinner at Latitude 65. Chef George knows what is up and makes the most incredible hearty soups, fresh fish, grilled meats and desserts. A comforting place to relax after a long day of frolicking in the cold. 

We hoped for Northern Lights but the weather was not on our side. We had no idea that one of the best shows of our lives was coming later in the week.

RELATED: The Aurora That Almost Got Away

ITINERARY NOTE: If you don’t have 3 nights to spend at Borealis Basecamp, you could head to Denali sooner and either stay there one more night or add on an Anchorage night for convenience before departure. For once, we wanted to unplug and really relax at one destination, but you could definitely switch this whole 8-night itinerary up if that doesn’t work in your schedule.

Day 4: Fairbanks → Healy → Denali 

On the morning of Day 4, we went back to the Fairbanks airport via the Borealis Basecamp shuttle to pick up our rental car, then drove south toward Denali. We stopped at Creamer’s Field to scope out some Sandhill Cranes before leaving town. 

The drive from Fairbanks to Denali is one of the most straightforward sections of an Alaska road trip and a great way to settle into the state’s wide open landscapes. You spend roughly 120 miles on the George Parks Highway before arriving at the entrance to Denali. The road is well-maintained road and follows Alaska Route 3 all the way to the park entrance (and beyond). The scenery shifts often enough to keep the drive interesting with stretches of spruce forest, open river valleys and long mountain views as you head south. The drive south toward Denali is one of those stretches of road where you keep pulling over “just for one photo” until you realize an hour has passed. It’s supposed to be a 2-2.5 hour drive, but be so for real and give yourself an extra hour or two just for meandering.

Practical Tips for the Fairbanks → Denali Drive

• Fill up your gas tank before leaving Fairbanks – once you’re headed south wildlife and wilderness dominate the landscape.
  
• Leave early to allow time for stops – wildlife sightings, photos, a lunch in Nenana or Healy, or just to take in the scenery.
  
• Check weather forecast before heading out. In September (or shoulder season) weather can shift quickly and daylight hours shrink, so watch the clock.
  
• Respect wildlife. Animals (moose especially) may wander near or onto the road. Drive slowly around dawn or dusk and be ready to stop safely.
  
• Have a paper or offline map handy. Cell coverage becomes spotty in more remote stretches.

Services are limited so it helps to start with a full tank (and tummy) in Fairbanks, then stop in the small town of Nenana if you want a break or a snack. Cell service drops in places but the road is easy to follow and traffic was super light in September. Weather can move in quickly with fog or rain appearing out of nowhere so we kept an eye on the sky and drove conservatively. 

Lunch in Healy: 49th State Brewing

Rick really wanted to try game meats on our visit, and a quick Google search said the 49th State Brewing would be our best bet short of making a friend with a freezer full of moose. We’d already been seduced by their famous Alaskan sodas – I must have ordered 3 Wild Blueberry Cream Sodas a day when we were up in Fairbanks! So it was fun to go to the actual main location and cozy into a booth for some food.

Rick ordered a beer flight (since I ALWAYS drive on road trips when there are animals to be spotted in the distance. We have learned our road trip marriage lessons over these past 10 years!) including Smok, a smoked lager, among others. Two thumbs up!

And then our food came. Holy moly, I’m still thinking about the King Crab Grilled Cheese I ordered. You dip it in their famous seafood chowder and then fireworks explode in your mouth. It was incredible. And then I tasted Rick’s yak burger with fries and this unbelievable fry sauce… like WHAT ARE WE DOING HERE, people? We almost decided to move to Alaska in that moment, but then I remembered I literally can’t drive in snow and decided to just come back every summer.

TIP: Heads up in case you can’t make it all the way to Denali. If you’re flying in or out of Anchorage, 49th State Brewing has an airport location!

Check in: Grande Denali Resort

Grande Denali Resort sits on a gentle rise above the valley near the entrance to the park so it feels close enough to get to the wilderness quickly yet far enough away to offer peace after a full day of exploring. The view from the property spans rolling hills, river corridors and distant mountains – a quiet reminder that you are surrounded by wild Alaska even while you’re checking in to a cozy lodge.

The rooms at Grande Denali were simple and maybe a bit dated, but plenty comfy, and the views were stellar. Waking up there meant looking out at birch trees dusted in early autumn gold when we visited in September. The quiet of the resort at that time of year made the calm all the more noticeable – no rush, no crowds, just the kind of place where you can plan your next day’s Denali adventure over a relaxed breakfast.

One of the things we appreciated most was the easy access to the park entrance. In the morning we were on our way fast without a long drive and in the evening we could return quickly after wildlife watching or hiking. We actually came back in the middle of the day to search for lunch since Denali’s services were shut down for the season, and it was quite easy. That made our days feel efficient without being rushed. For travelers who want maximum time inside the park while still sleeping somewhere comfortable, this lodge works well.

If you stay at Grande Denali Lodge you get the best of both worlds: a base that’s easy to reach yet tucked just far enough away to feel like a retreat. For anyone who wants to explore the park mornings and evenings and avoid long drives to and from accommodations, this lodge is a strong option that delivers comfort without fuss.

Check pricing and availability at Grande Denali Lodge

Note: You do have to drive up a relatively tight short switchback road to get up to the lodge, but even for me – the girl who is deathly afraid of edges – it wasn’t so bad. The views alone would have made it a great choice.

Day 5: A Full Day in Denali National Park

Denali National Park was created in 1917 to protect Dall sheep and later expanded to preserve North America’s tallest mountain and a huge stretch of wilderness. Today, most visitors come for the chance to see wildlife like bears, moose, caribou and wolves and to take in just how vast Alaska really is.

By early to mid-September, Denali starts transitioning toward winter.

September in the Denali Area – What to Expect

There’s only one road in Denali, and it’s how everyone experiences the park. The 92-mile Denali Park Road is only partially open to personal vehicles. In summer, you can drive the first 15 miles to Savage River, but after that, it’s park buses only. In September, the buses that run the length of the park road wind down, changing how far visitors can explore on their own. But, the dates are mostly weather dependent, so if you’re there the 2nd or 3rd week of September, you could have a day with buses and a day without. We played it by ear up until our arrival day. That’s just the fun of September in Alaska!

TIP: Before entering Denali National Park, it’s very important to check seasonal updates.

We ended up arriving a few days after the buses stopped running, which meant we could drive ourselves all the way to mile 30, the Teklanika rest stop. We actually parked there and walked an extra mile down to the Teklanika River Bridge and it was well worth the extra effort.

Thirty miles out of 92 doesn’t seem like a lot, and in some ways, I feel like we only scratched the surface of what Denali has to offer. On the other hand, those 30 miles we did get to experience with our own wheels were absolutely some of the most magnificent, breathtaking, unbelievable scenery you could ever hope to see. An epic national park day that we’ll always treasure.

Wildlife Spotting in Denali

Denali is one of my favorite places in the world, and now that Rick has been, he agrees. We saw so much wildlife! He spotted a bull moose near the treeline before I even saw movement. September is mating season for moose, so we kept our distance. (I mean, you always should, but during the rut it’s ESPECIALLY important if you don’t want to get trampled by a furry Toyota Tacoma with hooves.) We also saw caribou in the distance, Dall sheep way up on ridges and a cute little fox that trotted across the road. We didn’t see any bears in Denali so didn’t get the famous Denali Big 5, but had plans to fix that later in the week. 

Hiking in Denali National Park

Hiking in Denali is different from most national parks. There are very few marked trails, and visitors are encouraged to hike off trail, choosing their own route through open tundra and rugged terrain. During the main season, the park offers guided hikes ranging from relatively easy walks to challenging outings, which can be a great option if you want local insight. No matter how you hike here, preparation is essential. Denali is not a park for a casual, unplanned jaunt. Weather changes fast, terrain is uneven, help can be far away, oh and a bear could totally eat you, so knowing your limits and carrying the right gear really matters. Bring bear spray and know how to use it!

The good:

• Breathtaking fall colors everywhere – this was actually peak foliage during my visit
• Wildlife becomes more active preparing for winter
• Crowds are way down

The not-so-good:

• Visitor services close around the second or third week of September that means restaurants and the GIFT SHOP are closed. I did not get to spend hundreds of dollars on merch and I’m still sad about it
• Park buses stop running so you must have a car to explore the park (and pay attention to your rental car’s rules – some don’t allow you to drive in Denali)

Northern Lights… Finally!

After our magical day exploring Denali, we drove back up to Grande Denali Lodge for dinner at the onsite restaurant AlpenGlow. Incidentally, it was one of the only places to eat as most area restaurants had closed for the season within the past few days. Fortunately for us, the food was delightful – especially the crispy Brussels sprouts and salmon!

Check pricing and availability at Grande Denali Lodge

Then, I promptly passed out only to receive the free aurora wake up call from the Grande Denali reception desk. Read all about that wild experience here: https://angieaway.com/2025/09/30/the-aurora-that-got-away-and-the-alaska-that-didnt/

Day 6: Denali → Talkeetna → Girdwood

After staying up far too late marveling at the northern lights, we had an early start for the drive south, first to Talkeetna to catch a scenic flight and ultimately stopping in Girdwood for our final hotel stay of the trip. It’s a LONG driving day starting with about 2.5 to 3 hours to Talkeetna. Take note that it’s a jaw-droppingly scenic drive, and wildlife is far more common than bathrooms or rest areas! Stay alert, take a potty break anytime you see one and don’t rush it.

We got to Talkeetna an hour before our flight, so we had some lunch at Y Knot Barbecue and then made our way to K2’s airport. Talkeetna itself is a quaint little village, but it serves as a major hub for climbers attempting Denali and a great place to break up the longer drive south.

Glacier Landing with K2 Aviation

K2 Aviation’s Denali Flyer was one of the standout experiences of our entire trip. Flights in signature red float planes typically last about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or closer to 1 hour and 45 minutes if you add the glacier landing, which is 100% recommended if conditions allow. From the moment you take off, the views are unreal. Our pilot narrated as we smoothly flew around massive Kahiltna Glacier, past Mount Foraker and around the southern side of Denali, seeing climber base camps and terrain that can’t be accessed any other way – and 100% can’t be accessed by me. It’s an airplane or nothing when it comes to mountain summits.

We landed on Ruth Glacier, and again, it was smoother and more chill than you might expect. Stepping out onto a wide field of snow surrounded by peaks, it really put Alaska’s scale into perspective. Having had Denali’s peak and these surrounding mountains in view all day while driving around the national park yesterday, it was almost incomprehensible to get to see them up close and realize just how massive they must be to be seen from so far away.

K2 FLIGHT TIPS: Dress in layers you can strip off. It was shockingly warm when we landed on the glacier. That may be a rarity, but worth noting that it might not be as cold as you think. Wear sturdy shoes – you can add glacier booties over the top for extra grip. Do not forget sunglasses – it’s bright up there!

Of course flights are weather dependent, so book early AND keep your schedule flexible in case of delays or cancellations. We had zero flexibility in our schedule and were blessed with the most crystal clear, spectacular, nearly warm day you could imagine. Not a cloud in the sky, a smooth ride all around the peaks and the most fun bouncy snow landing on the glacier. 100/10 experience, would absolutely recommend. If you are considering booking for next season, use code ANGIEAWAY for 10% off the Denali Flyer with Glacier Landing tour.

Lunch in Talkeetna

After the flight, we were basically speechless and giddy, wandering wild-eyed into town for lunch. I can’t even remember where we ate, I was so gobsmacked by the experience we just had. Talkeetna is an easy place to explore on foot, and there are plenty of casual spots for burgers, pizza, pastries and ice cream. If it’s a clear day, you can see Denali in all its breathtaking glory from the shore of Talkeetna Riverfront Park — again, it’s like 60 miles away but the mountain is so huge it seems much closer. Talkeetna is also a stop on the Alaska Railroad, so if the timing works, you might see the iconic train pull in, which is fun to watch and worth filing away for a future Alaska trip.

Talkeetna to Girdwood

From Talkeetna to Girdwood, plan on about 2 to 2.5 more hours of driving, depending on traffic through Wasilla and Anchorage and how often you stop. The highlight is the stretch along Turnagain Arm, which they say is one of the most scenic drives in Alaska… and I couldn’t help asking, aren’t ALL the drives in Alaska scenic?! But the experts were right. It was truly cinematic. We stopped at Beluga Point to watch the tide churn through the inlet and scan for whales.

ITINERARY NOTE: This would be a good spot in the itinerary to add on an extra day. Would have loved to explore Talkeetna a bit more and not have to rush south. It felt like a LOT of driving for one day.

A few road tips here: tides move quickly in Turnagain Arm and mudflats can be dangerous, so stay well back from the water. If you cross the railroad tracks to get closer to the rocks, be extremely cautious. Trains move quickly and quietly. Weather can change quickly along this stretch, with strong winds and sudden rain, so keep layers handy and allow extra time if conditions shift.

By the time you reach Girdwood, the mountains close in again and the pace slows, making it a great place to settle in after a long but memorable day on the road and in the sky.

Check-in: Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort felt like an entirely different Alaska from the one we experienced up north. Tucked into the charming mountain town of Girdwood about 40 minutes south of Anchorage, the resort sits at the base of steep peaks and thick forest with clouds that drift low enough to touch the treetops. While many Alaska destinations cater to either summer (milder temps) or winter (aurora season), Alyeska is open all year. It’s an ideal home base for anyone who wants easy access to outdoor adventure like hiking and biking in the summer and excellent skiiing in the winter. They get 650′ of snow annually! Add to that good restaurants, a spa and comfortable rooms all under one roof, and proximity to tours and activities in Anchorage, Seward and the Kenai Peninsula, and you can’t go wrong.

The surrounding town of Girdwood is small and easy to explore. It was originally a mining town and now has a blend of locals, seasonal workers and travelers who come for hiking, skiing and the artsy mountain vibe. You’ll find casual restaurants, a few shops and trailheads right off the main road. The setting is lush thanks to the coastal rainforest. Trees are tall and dense and the whole valley feels tucked away from the rest of Alaska. Even simple drives around town deliver postcard views of hanging glaciers and narrow waterways feeding into the Turnagain Arm.

Check pricing and availability for Alyeska Resort

We were surprised to be upgraded to the Black Diamond Club floor, which includes access to a private lounge with elevated breakfast options, afternoon snacks and evening bites overlooking mountains, forest and Turnagain Arm in the distance. The quieter atmosphere and thoughtful touches made it feel super luxurious and exclusive. Definitely something we’d book again.

Our Black Diamond Club level room at Alyeska Resort was spacious and calm, a nice shift after several busy days on the go. Rooms overlook the mountains or the small ponds that curve around the edges of the property and we watched for the resident moose that sometimes wanders through. There’s also a heated indoor pool and fitness center so the resort works well whether you want to relax or stay active. Even though the property is large it never felt chaotic which probably has a lot to do with when we visited.

For dinner, we tried Forte, the Italian restaurant on site, where the king crab pasta was a standout, and had a lighter meal the following night at ABar for a few small plates and dessert after a full day of exploring.

Highlights of Alyeska Resort

September might be the quietest time at Alyeska. Summer crowds have thinned out and the winter ski season hasn’t started yet so the resort shifts into a softer, slower rhythm. Restaurants take their time, the lobby stays peaceful and the trails around Girdwood feel almost private. The weather can swing between crisp sunshine and steady rain but that’s part of the charm. On clear days you can see bright fall colors on the mountains. On rainy days the resort becomes its own retreat with long spa sessions, warm meals and lingering afternoons in the lounge. If you want Alyeska without the flutter of peak season, this is the month to go.

One of the standout features at Alyeska is the aerial tram that climbs the side of Mount Alyeska in just a few minutes, with views that open up as you rise above the trees and look out across the surrounding peaks. At the top, viewing platforms overlook the valley, and it’s also home to Seven Glaciers, the resort’s fine-dining restaurant known for its panoramic views. We didn’t make it up there this time, but both are high on the list for a return visit.

Check pricing and availability for Alyeska Resort

Day 7: Girdwood → Anchorage → Lake Clark National Park

On Day 7, we left Girdwood and retraced our route up Turnagain Arm toward Anchorage for a full-day trip that ended up being another highlight in a trip absolutely filled with spectacular moments: bear viewing with Rust’s Flying Service at Lake Clark National Park. After checking in at Rust’s on Lake Hood in Anchorage, we boarded a seaplane for a scenic flight of about an hour over Cook Inlet before landing on Crescent Lake, deep inside a national park so remote, you can only get there by float plane. The entire outing lasts around 10 hours, and while it’s one of the pricier excursions on an Alaska itinerary, it struck me as a perfect way to see a chunk of wilderness few people ever experience.

Once we landed on the turquoise lake, motoring to a floating dock at Redoubt Mountain Lodge, the day unfolded with knowledgeable guides who helped us quietly observe CHONKY coastal brown bears fishing for salmon or moving along the shoreline, all from the comfort of a covered pontoon boat. Because the bears are in their natural habitat, and the shoreline is rich with food sources like spawning salmon, Bald Eagles and other wildlife often appear too, so we were immersed in a genuinely wild ecosystem. Seeing bear behavior up close – from moms teaching cubs to fish to massive adults patrolling the shallows and seemingly posing for our photos – is exactly what many travelers hope for when they come to Alaska. It’s certainly the safest way to encounter an Alaskan grizzly in the wild.

Lunch at the lodge – a hearty, home-cooked meal with views of Crescent Lake and the surrounding peaks – broke up the day and gave us a chance to warm up by the fire, recharge cameras and talk over sightings. As far as splurges go, this one felt worth every dollar, especially if seeing bears is on your bucket list. I’m convinced there’s no better way!

For more details on what the day looks like and tips for planning your visit, check out my full guide to bear viewing in Lake Clark National Park here. AND, use my discount code – ANGIEAWAY – for 10% the tour when you book for next season.

Dinner back in Girdwood

We drove the 40 minutes back to Alyeska Resort absolutely wired from seeing two dozen bears in the wild, grabbed a quick bite at aBar and toasted to our very last night in Alaska. A picture perfect trip if ever there was one!

Day 8: Alyeska Nordic Spa → Bore Tide → Anchorage → Home

Our last Alaska morning was dedicated entirely to the Alyeska Nordic Spa – and I’m not being dramatic when I say it was the perfect finale. Hot pools, cold plunges, saunas, aromatherapy rooms, exfoliation stations… It’s a whole wellness playground tucked into a spruce forest. (No photos allowed in the spa, sorry!)

Alyeska Nordic Spa circuit

Years ago, I visited the Kananaskis Nordic Spa halfway between Calgary and Banff. It was such a great time that when I saw the same folks had opened a sister Nordic spa at Alyeska, I said, “I don’t care how much it costs – we’re going!” And actually the price was pretty reasonable for a few hours of respite – starting about $100 each, and of course you can go all out with massages and treatments. The mix of hot and cold pools, saunas and steam rooms felt like hitting a reset button after our last few days of long drives and early mornings. We spent the whole morning of our last day luxuriating in the pools and steam rooms dotted throughout the forest, followed by a healthy spa lunch. With a week of hiking, flying, bouncing around in UTVs, and staying up late for aurora hunting, my body basically melted in gratitude.

Final drive to Anchorage (and one last wildlife sighting)

We reluctantly checked out of our swanky Alyeska room for the drive back to Anchorage, but we had one more important stop to make along the way. I’d discovered that we might be in the right place at the right time to catch Turnagain Arm’s famous bore tide. It’s a natural phenomenon where the incoming tide forms a visible wave that travels upriver against the current. It happens here because Cook Inlet has some of the largest tidal swings in North America, and when conditions line up just right, that surge of water funnels into narrow river channels and pushes forward as a rolling wall of water.

Bore tides only occur on certain days each month and at specific times, and you have to be positioned along the right stretch of river before it arrives. Miss the window by even a little and it’s over, which makes it one of those Alaska moments that rewards planning and patience. Wouldn’t you know, we were scheduled to be driving along Turnagain Arm at exactly the right time. After some false starts and wondering, “Is that it?” the wave made its way to where we had parked, close to a bunch of surfers. (When all else fails, find someone else who looks like they know what they’re doing!)

I LOVE to watch surfing, but I didn’t expect that pastime to follow men all the way to Alaska! We parked just as a handful of guys in wetsuits crossed the mudflats, surfboards tucked under their arms. They paddled out in a line and watched for the wave… and eventually, it rolled right in! It was a pretty small wave that day – maybe 2-3 ft. – but it can get up to 6 feet when conditions are right.

The sight of intrepid surfers surrounded by towering, snow-capped mountains was so unreal, my eyes didn’t really believe what I was seeing. And of course now I want to try it myself one day.

Goodbye, Alaska

We ended the trip with a nostalgic meal at the 49th State Brewing location in the Anchorage airport, because we loved it so much we needed one last fix before flying home. I had to have more fry sauce, one more bowl of chowder and another Yak burger.

Why You Should Plan Your Own Alaska Road Trip

This 7-night itinerary is perfect for first-time Alaska visitors who want a mix of comfort, adventure, wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re chasing Northern Lights, landing on glaciers, wandering through Denali or soaking in a spa surrounded by mountains, Alaska is 100% that girl. One of my favorite states to visit and one trip I can’t stop thinking about. 

“That was the best trip we’ve ever taken,” said Rick, a man who traditionally says very little. 

If you’re ready to start planning your Alaska adventure, here are your next steps:

• Read the related guides linked throughout this post.
• Check pricing & book early – especially for these particular hotels and specialty tours.
• Build flexibility into your schedule; weather can change your plans.
• Pack layers, waterproof shoes and backup batteries.
• And above all: leave space for magic. Alaska always delivers it.

Helpful links from this trip

• My Borealis Basecamp review: https://angieaway.com/2025/11/03/borealis-basecamp-review-fairbanks-alaska/
  
• My Northern Lights story: https://angieaway.com/2025/09/30/the-aurora-that-got-away-and-the-alaska-that-didnt/
  
• Bear viewing guide in Lake Clark National Park: https://angieaway.com/2025/10/08/bear-viewing-in-lake-clark-national-park/
  
• K2 Aviation Denali Flight with Glacier Landing: https://www.flyk2.com/tours/denali-flyer/

Got questions about this Alaska itinerary? Drop them below, or come hang out on Instagram for videos and behind-the-scenes moments.

I came to Alaska chasing light – specifically, the green kind that dances across the night sky in ethereal waves. I’ve come up empty looking for the aurora in my travels before, but was hopeful this trip would be the one to help me check off my bucket list. I recall the first time I saw Borealis Basecamp on a friend’s Instagram – the clear-domed igloos in the snow just outside Fairbanks, far from city lights, and I imagined myself tucked into bed with a front-row seat to the aurora. I knew THIS is where I wanted to go next to try my luck with the Northern Lights. 

What Is Borealis Basecamp?

Borealis Basecamp opened in 2017 with just six domes, designed for travelers who want to experience the Arctic – which is beautiful, indeed, but also super harsh – without roughing it. Now there are a few dozen domes and cubes on the 100-acre property, each designed for maximum northern lights viewing, minimal light pollution and cozy warmth. There’s a main lodge with an upscale restaurant, pub-style lounge and cozy fire where guests gather to swap stories from the day’s adventures, plus an activity center equipped for fall and winter activities like dogsledding, ATV tours and reindeer meet-and-greets.

RELATED: Alaska Bucket List: Bear-Viewing in Lake Clark National Park

Where Is Borealis Basecamp Located?

Borealis Basecamp sits about 45 minutes north of Fairbanks, Alaska, in a remote boreal forest perfect for maximum aurora viewing and minimal light pollution. Fairbanks and the surrounding areas are some of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. The region sits directly under the auroral oval, a ring-shaped zone over the Arctic where aurora activity is strongest, giving visitors a high chance of clear displays.

Winter nights are long and dark, skies are often crisp and dry and there is minimal light pollution outside the city, which makes the colors pop even more. Add to that easy access to wilderness lodges, hot springs and cozy accommodations, and it’s clear why Fairbanks is the No. 1 spot for aurora chasing that doesn’t require a passport for Americans.

Check pricing and availability at Borealis Basecamp

When to Visit Borealis Basecamp

We booked our trip for mid-September to celebrate my husband’s 40th birthday, and that turned out to be an absolutely incredible time to experience Alaska. It’s when the traditional summer tourist season is winding down and in its place, the aurora season is ramping up. So there wasn’t any snow for our visit – and as a Floridian, I’m telling you that was the right choice for me to ease into Arctic life. 

Aurora season in Alaska runs roughly from late August through April, when the nights are long enough for the northern lights to appear. The peak months are usually September through March, with the most intense displays often occurring in the coldest, clearest months. While longer nights increase your chances of seeing the aurora, weather and solar activity are unpredictable, so sightings are never guaranteed.

How to Get to Borealis Basecamp 

Fairbanks International Airport is the closest hub, with regular flights from Anchorage and Seattle. Once you land, Borealis Basecamp is 25 miles from the airport, which seems easy enough but winter roads can add a touch of icy adventure. We took the pre-arranged shuttle as we arrived late at night and didn’t want to navigate unfamiliar, moose-laden roads in the dark. But you could rent a car and drive if you’re comfortable. We had no intention of venturing off-property during our stay, so a rental car was not needed. 

Check flights to Fairbanks

What to Pack for Borealis Basecamp

I never know how to pack for northern climates, but you can’t go wrong with layers. Whether you’re visiting Alaska in August/September or the dead of winter, if you’re planning to spend any time outside, you’re going to want to be able to customize as you go. 

Here’s what worked well for me (and keep in mind Borealis Basecamp does have additional gear to keep even warmer on excursions):

Clothing

• Warm jacket or insulated coat
• Thermal base layers or long underwear
• Sweaters or fleece layers for warmth indoors or layering outdoors
• Gloves and hat to protect against the cold
• Scarf or neck gaiter for added warmth (Borealis Basecamp provided branded neck gaiters and we used them every day of our trip!)
• Insulated wool socks and sturdy shoes or boots suitable for uneven or frosty ground

Accessories

• Camera and tripod (tripod or something sturdy is a must for aurora photographs)
• Headlamp or small flashlight for navigating the property at night (our shuttle driver loaned us a mini-flashlight for our stay)
• Hand warmers for extra comfort while outside (brought a big pack of these and used them often!)
• Sunglasses for bright days, especially if snow is present later in the season

Other Tips

• Pack clothes that are easy to layer and remove, since temperatures can vary throughout the day
• Bring a small daypack if you plan on hiking or exploring trails nearby
• Don’t forget chargers for your camera and phone, especially if you’re taking lots of photos

Even without snow, the evenings can get chilly, and having the right layers makes the experience much more comfortable.

Check pricing and availability at Borealis Basecamp

Accommodation Options at Borealis Basecamp

Depending on your needs and how many in your party, you can choose from the glass-topped domes or cubes with floor-to-ceiling glass – all pointed north toward the Arctic Circle. Each space has large windows or full glass walls so you can watch the sky from the comfort of your bed. The interiors are modern and functional with everything you need: a comfortable bed, wet bar with coffee and cocoa supplies, a small bathroom and a great heater. 

The igloos at Borealis Basecamp aren’t made of ice; they’re actually concrete/foam with big glass ceilings so you can watch the stars or the northern lights from bed. Each has a king or two twin beds, a mini fridge, a kettle with morning drinks and a full bathroom. The cube rooms are similar, with a few different bed layouts including a bunk that can accommodate 3 people. If you have more than that in your party, check in with staff for options.

The common areas are made of large yurts; the reception area/lounge, the restaurant/pub and the activity center/cafe. It’s spread out but comfortably walkable and very easy to navigate the property.

The Domes: Sleeping Under the Northern Lights

We stayed in a dome on this visit, so this review will focus on that specifically. Our king-sized bed was super cozy and plenty warm, the bathroom had everything we needed and the heater kept us nice and toasty. The highlight of the whole room is the clear roof that lets you watch the stars from bed. On crisp nights when the magic is happening, you can see the northern lights right through the glass from the comfort of your bed.

Food at Borealis Basecamp 

If you have a car, you might be tempted to leave the property to grab a quick bite – but there aren’t many quick bites around, so keep that in mind when planning. We didn’t leave Borealis Basecamp for the duration of our 3 night stay, so we tested out all the dining options onsite. 

Latitude 65 is the main on-site restaurant and the heart of Borealis Basecamp. Guests gather here for included buffet breakfast, plus lunch and dinner a la carte. The menu changes seasonally based on what ingredients are available. We had heard from several past visitors that Latitude 65 has the reputation not only for the best food in Fairbanks, but possibly in all of Alaska. And you know what? It was so, so good. Not what you’d necessarily expect from a place with “basecamp” in the name – this is not a can of beans over a campfire. It’s actual gourmet, locally sourced, very thoughtful cuisine.  We tried as much as we could during our stay – juicy elk medallions, house-made pasta, crispy pork belly and lots of iterations of salmon. Plus hearty soups and sandwiches at Basecamp Cafe to warm up at lunch after wandering around the property with reindeer in tow. Eating at Latitude 65 was definitely one of my favorite things to do at Borealis Basecamp!

Activities and Tours at Borealis Basecamp

I mentioned we didn’t leave the property for our whole three nights at Borealis Basecamp, and that was a strategic choice. While there’s plenty to do elsewhere in Fairbanks, we really wanted to be immersed in everything Borealis Basecamp had to offer, from food to activities. Many of the activities depend on whether there’s snow or not, and our September activities reflect the snowless selection. All tours meet at the activity center, which sits a short wander from the main lodging area, and has gear from gloves to coats to help insulate you from the chill. Even in September, I was grateful for extra layers!

• Reindeer Walking Experience – There’s SO MUCH I didn’t know about reindeer! And I’m not going to tell you, because you’ll want to be surprised. You get to walk through the forest with a real reindeer on a leash – it took me back to my dog show days, that’s for sure. Ideal spot to snag a photo for your annual Christmas card.
• UTV tour – We did the 3-hour UTV tour of the backcountry and got good and muddy doing it. You get to cruise alongside the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, have a hot cocoa stop and see parts of Alaska no one else gets to. Beautiful in September with the yellow birch leaves, but note once the snow falls, this switches over to a snowmobile tour. 
• Sunset Snowcoach Tour – On our last night, we hopped in a tricked out Toyota Tundra for a ride to the top of a neighboring ridge. You get great views of the whole property with all its domes and cubes across the way, Champagne and a gorgeous sunset. 
• 1-Hour Sauna – A great idea to warm up after a day of dogsledding or a late night of aurora watching. 

When there’s snow on the ground, you can take a dogsled ride through the forest or hop on a snowmachine for a speedy adventure. There are also daylong tours to the Arctic Circle and scenic helicopter rides. They recommend booking in advance so when you arrive, you know exactly what your schedule will be. 

Read more about Borealis Basecamp tours and activities 

TIP: Don’t over-schedule your days with tours, and book later in the day so if you are up all night marveling at the Northern Lights, you can sleep in and not have to get up super early for a UTV tour. (Speaking from experience, friends!) 

How Much Does Borealis Basecamp Cost?

Being so for real, Borealis Basecamp is definitely a splurge – but, I personally think it’s a worthwhile one. We had the most wonderful time, and we didn’t even see the Northern Lights while we were there! So I hope that gives you an idea of just how much we enjoyed ourselves. Rates vary depending on the season and you can purchase package deals that include various activities. The price includes breakfast, use of the facilities and the bragging rights of sleeping in a glass igloo in Alaska of course. Some packages also include round-trip transportation from Fairbanks and select excursions. It’s not a budget trip, but it’s one that many travelers consider a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Check pricing and availability at Borealis Basecamp

Borealis Basecamp Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The setting is spectacular, the domes are warm and comfortable, and the staff goes out of their way to make your stay special. The quiet and isolation make it easy to disconnect and focus on the beauty of Alaska.
• The food is delicious
• Super friendly staff
• Lots to do — or not do

Cons:

• Because aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity, there’s never a guarantee you’ll see the lights.
• Wi-Fi can be a little spotty.
• There’s not a full-service spa. Now listen, if there was, they would have had to force me to leave. So maybe it’s better this way.

Even with the risk of missing the lights (which did in fact happen to us), Borealis Basecamp delivers exactly what it promises – an immersive, peaceful escape surrounded by nature.

Best Time to Visit Borealis Basecamp

Borealis Basecamp is only open during Aurora Season from August through April. December to February are the coldest months but often bring clearer skies. March offers slightly warmer days and plenty of aurora activity. And as I’ve said, September was positively glorious weather and mild temps. The best advice I can give? Book early as availability is limited and the domes fill fast.

Is Borealis Basecamp Worth It? My Honest Opinion

I’ll be honest: it was easy to write this Borealis Basecamp review because I loved every moment of our 3-night, 4-day stay. It really is a bucket-list experience. It’s expensive indeed, but it’s such a unique location with lots to do aside from aurora chasing. Even without the aurora, I’d call it worth it for the scenery, the comfort, the food and the story you’ll tell later. If the northern lights do appear, that’s just the cherry on top.

WANT MORE? Read this: The Aurora That (Almost) Got Away

Alternatives to Borealis Basecamp

If Borealis Basecamp is out of budget or booked up, there are other great options near Fairbanks, although not much high end luxury if that’s what you’re going for. Fairbanks is small, even if it’s technically the second largest city in Alaska so don’t expect big-city hotels or fancy service. Instead, focus on your itinerary – if you’re spending lots of time in town, definitely look at the hotels in the city. And if you have the flexibility, it’s wonderful to get out further afield into some of the more experiential properties.

Prices vary wildly depending on when you visit. Summer is peak season and you’ll quickly find even Alaska’s 2-star properties can be expensive. Timing your trip can make a big difference in what you pay and the kind of experience you have, so plan accordingly.

Explore pricing and availability for Fairbanks Hotels

Borealis Basecamp Review: All the Stars 

Is Borealis Basecamp the coolest place to stay in Alaska? When I decided to visit Borealis Basecamp just outside Fairbanks, I was chasing one thing: the northern lights – and even though that didn’t happen until a few nights later, I have no regrets about starting our Alaska road trip in our cozy dome, with resident reindeer, friendly staff and an incredible chef whipping up culinary delights. Not seeing the lights didn’t actually make the trip any less magical. If anything, it just made me want to come back again to experience the property in the snowier months.

Check pricing and availability at Borealis Basecamp

While September was snowless, I can’t get the ribbons of yellow birch weaving between the evergreens out of my mind. It was an incredible introduction to Alaska, and set the tone for the rest of our adventure in such a special way.

Thinking about booking a stay at Borealis Basecamp? Drop me a line! Happy to answer your questions and suggest activities.

Welcome to the 13th annual Ultimate Holiday Travel Gift Guide. I’m so pumped about this year’s gift guide – as a certified No. 13 lover myself, I can say with confidence that Taylor Swift would totally appreciate the thoughtfulness packed into this list. Like her, I’m all about the details, the experiences worth remembering and the little joys that turn ordinary moments into magic.

From cozy travel gear to little extras that bring your adventures home, I’ve taken all year to curate this list of gifts that are thoughtful, practical and downright merry. And this year, I’ve made a real effort to spotlight more small businesses than ever before. The corporations don’t need our money half as much as the mom-and-pops who pour their hearts into every product, so join me in shopping mindfully as often as possible.

Welcome to our 13th annual traveler’s gift guide!

The best part? You can enjoy all the holiday vibes without getting snowed under by mall crowds. Cozy up by the fireplace, sip your cocoa and shop thoughtfully.

Take a peek at my list and find something for every type of traveler, from weekend warriors to globe-trotting nomads. Ho-ho-hop to it and happy gifting, friendos!

Gift Ideas For Travelers

Cadence Capsules

Founded by Steph Hon in 2020, Cadence capsules magnetic, customizable and sustainable mini-product containers. Each chic capsule holds a week or so worth of SPF, face cleanser, moisturizer, hand sanitizer, shampoo, toothpaste, vitamins or jewelry and are all made from ocean-bound plastic. I have been a Cadence fan for years and just added the magnetic parcels to my travel collection this year. Packing has never been more efficient!

Black Friday deals for Cadence products:

• 10% below $200
• 20% off $200+
• 25% off $300+
• 30% off + GWP Mini Parcel $500+

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Flirting with Disaster, the best travel book in the world*

*According to me, the esteemed author. I’m just saying, if you can only buy one gift for your loved ones this year, why not make it the gift of adventure? If you love to travel or dream of chucking the 9-to-5 to see the world, this book will get you dreaming of the possibilities for your own life in 2026, while making you laugh along the way. Limited autographed copies available here. Available wherever you buy books in audio, Kindle and hardcover.

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Tasty Souvenirs

I love bringing home local food items and giving them as gifts because they feel personal and practical at the same time. This year, I visited Traverse City, Michigan, for the first time and one of my favorite stops was Fustini’s. It instantly checked my favorite travel-souvenir box: something delicious I can actually use. Their infused olive oils and aged balsamics are so flavorful and balanced that choosing just one feels impossible. So I left with six bottles and I’m not even sorry. It’s the kind of gift that tells a story from your trip without adding clutter.

Good news if you don’t have time to swing by Traverse City before the holidays: Fustini’s ships!

Read: 3 Day Traverse City Itinerary

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Viator Experience

Experiences make the kind of holiday gifts that don’t get returned or shoved in a closet. Viator has tours and activities all over the world, and chances are there’s something fun right in your own hometown. We kicked off the season with a Nights of Lights cruise in St. Augustine, and sailing past millions of twinkling bulbs set the tone for the whole month.

As much as I love unwrapping something pretty, it’s the shared moments that stick with me. A sunset sail, a food tour, snorkeling somewhere new… those are the gifts that turn into stories you actually tell later. If you’re aiming for memorable this year, an experience might be the easiest win on your list.

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Flytographer Gift Card

Flytographer is our travel photo shoot of choice and a great way to celebrate a special occasion or the special occasion of going somewhere besides your own backyard! Flytographer gift cards also make amazing wedding shower gifts, too, especially if the honeymooners are going to one of Flytographer’s hundreds of locations. Read our Flytographer review here, then get $25 your first shoot by clicking here.

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Trip Chaser Card Game

Trip Chaser is armchair travel for competitive people brought to you by two of my favorite traveling Canadians – the Hecks! Prove who’s the most travel-savvy by buying, bartering, and gambling your way to various destinations. It’s like real travel but without the suitcase, spending or stress. And it’s small enough to be the perfect stocking stuffer! Shop small and support my pals this year!

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6-in-1 Hair Styling Tool

If there’s one thing I love more than booking a flight, it’s a gadget that saves me time before I even get to the airport. I bought this 6-in-1 Air Styling Brush for my birthday, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I may never sit in a blowout chair again. It dries my hair in just a few minutes and somehow leaves it smoother, bouncier and more “I woke up like this” than anything I’ve used before.

The set comes with everything: a hair dryer brush, oval brush, round brush, two automatic curlers that spin in both directions and a straightener. If you’re always on the go or want to look polished without spending half your morning fighting with your hair, this is the one tool I’d gift to literally anyone who travels or just likes to feel fabulous.

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Loop Earplugs

Loop Earplugs have earned a permanent spot in my travel bag because they make chaotic environments way more manageable. Between airports, chatty passengers and rattly hotel HVAC systems, having adjustable noise control helps me stay calm and functional. The in-ear dial lets me switch between modes for conversations, loud events or those moments when I just need a quieter bubble. They’re comfortable enough for long wear, and the multiple ear tip sizes make it easy to find a good seal. Paired with my noise canceling headphones, they’re a small thing that makes a big difference on every trip.

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Jodi’s Food Maps

Since you can’t bring all of Italy’s pasta, Mexico’s mezcal or Japan’s sashimi home, you can remember a tasty journey with unique, hand-drawn maps from Jodi of Legal Nomads. A super thoughtful gift for the enthusiastic food + travel lover in your life. 

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World Travel Scratch Off Poster

If you need a little visual motivation to keep the wanderlust burning, this World Bucket List Scratch Off Poster is such a fun way to track your greatest hits. Each destination is paired with a hand-drawn icon by Kristin Douglas with a soft watercolor wash hiding under the foil, so every scratch feels like revealing a tiny work of art. It’s basically a celebration each time you peel one back.

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National Park Bucket List Water Bottle

Y’all know I’m obsessed with National Parks, right? If only I were as obsessed with staying hydrated.

Here’s a perfect gift for the national park lover in your life who might need a little encouragement to drink water every day.

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Conair Fabric Steamer

If you’ve got a traveler, commuter or perpetually wrinkled friend on your list, this Conair Turbo Steam handheld steamer is a quiet hero. It heats up in about 40 seconds and delivers up to 20 minutes of steady steam, so you can smooth out clothes without wrestling with a full-size hotel iron that may or may not work.

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Compression Socks

Travel friend Sherry Ott teamed up with VIM&VIGR to design these compression socks after her own scary experience with DVT, and I’ve been cheering her on ever since. I never travel without compression socks anymore. Long flights, road trips, days spent standing in line at theme parks – they’re a simple way to keep your legs feeling good and your circulation moving.

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“In My Travel Era” Hoodie

If you’ve been known to mark your life in eras, this “In My Travel Era” hoodie hits just right. It’s soft and comfortable in that perfectly broken-in way that makes it ideal for airport mornings, long drives or those late-night moments when you’re deep into plotting your next getaway. Slip it on and you instantly feel like the main character of your own world tour.

It’s a fun nod for anyone who appreciates a little Easter egg energy without shouting it from the rooftops. Cozy enough for red-eye flights and cute enough for trip photos, it’s the kind of piece that quietly says you’re living your next great chapter on your own terms.

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Gonex Rolling Duffle

 I was long overdue for a luggage overhaul this year so I was thrilled to try out the Gonex rolling duffle. Made of water resistant PVC, it’s durable and at 70L, has more than enough space for trips. Highly recommend, especially if you’re hard on luggage like I am!

Also check out their compression packing cubes, a lifesaver when you’re moving locations mid-trip.

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Apple AirTags

Whether you’re a traveler or a homebody, you can never have too many Apple AirTags. They’re handy on lost suitcases, dogs, car keys… I mean, the possibilities are endless.

If you don’t know what to get someone or you’re in a bind re: White Elephant or Secret Santa, an Apple AirTag is ALWAYS appreciated!

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Candles

If there’s ever been a candle that speaks my love language, it’s this one. “The Calming Scent of Planning Another Trip” feels like it was poured straight from my brain into a jar. Between juggling flights, deadlines and whatever chaos the holidays bring, lighting it is basically a permission slip to daydream about my next escape. One whiff and I’m instantly scouring Google Maps like it’s a competitive sport.

Consider it aromatherapy for wanderlusters — the kind that pairs best with a fresh passport stamp and a cup of something warm.

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GoPro Hero 13 | Creator Edition

I always include the GoPro on my holiday gift guide and for good reason – aside from my iPhone, it’s the one piece of camera gear that goes with me everywhere, from scuba diving in Bonaire to camping at Ginnie Springs. I just bought the new one for snorkeling with manta rays in Hawaii and it was perfection, even in the dark. Read more about my tips for scuba with a GoPro.

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Prepster Emergency Backpack 

Preppi’s Prepster bags are stocked with supplies to get you through an emergency – be it a wildfire, hurricane, tornado, or some as-yet-to-be discovered 911 situation. Each bag comes with a lifetime guarantee and solar/hand-crank charging station to keep your phone charged when the power goes out, food & water, space blanket, hygiene products, whistle, hand warmers, poncho, multi-tool, first aid kit and so much more. The way the world is, it would be crazy not to have at least one of these kits within arm’s reach!

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Pet Weekender Bag

Stylish bag with all the essentials for a pet’s weekend away. What? Your pups don’t go on adventures? Our bunch is forever going back and forth between Orlando and Jacksonville, so they really need their own luggage for the trip. And if they ever did need to fly, this Pet Weekender Bag is airline approved and fits under the seat.  

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Life Straw Water Bottle

There’s really no reason to be wandering this planet in 2024 A.D. with a plain Jane water bottle. Not when you can have a Life Straw water bottle whose filtration system protects against 99.999999% of bacteria (including E. Coli and Salmonella), 99.999% of parasites (including Giardia), and 99.999% of micro plastics. It reduces chlorine, odors, organic chemical matter and improves taste, and the filter lasts for about 1,000 gallons.

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RFID-Blocking Passport Holder

Lightweight and compact but still big enough to hold a passport, ID, vaccine cards and more. Comes in a ton of colors and holds coins, a key, a pen, a passport and more.

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Monogrammed Travel Jewelry Case

I got a gorgeous travel jewelry case in a FabFitFun box last year, and I take it with me on every trip now. I don’t even bother unpacking it. Looks great on my dresser and drops right into my carry-on, and I love this monogrammed version. Perfect gift for the chic traveler.

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Ancestry DNA Kit

The holidays are a great time to dig into what makes you YOU, and both Ancestry DNA and 23andMe have great sales at this time of year. Rick and I have used both Ancestry DNA and 23andMe and it has been helpful from a health perspective in particular!

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EASY, LAST-MINUTE GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS

If you’re not seeing this until December 20th, well I’ve got ideas for you, too. You procrastinating son-of-a-gun. Just like my Dad at Walmart on Christmas Eve every year, here you are searching desperately for a gift that doesn’t look like you got it AT THE LAST MINUTE from the clearance bin. Am I guilting you? Maybe just a little bit. But let’s leave the past in the past and help you not look like a Grinch on the big day. 

Here are our favorite gifts you can snag at any time. No torturous shopping and no shipping required! 

Priority Pass

There’s just nothing better than lounge access when you’re traveling. Free wifi, cozy seats, food and drinks! Priority Pass membership gives you access to 1,400+ lounges in more than 600 cities across 148 countries, no matter what airline you’re on.

DEAL: 30% if you buy on Black Friday!

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Medjet Membership

 I would LOVE a Medjet renewal under my tree every year! If I get sick and have to be hospitalized while traveling, Medjet is who I count on to get me all the way home. Depending on the membership, Medjet handles global crisis response as well. Read my Medjet review here.

For details: MedjetAssist.com/Cyber 

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Audible Subscription

Audible has single handedly helped me to prevent the clutter that naturally comes with being a bibliophile. I love having a book always queued up on my phone so any time I have a moment, I can dive back into wherever I left off. Great gift for a busy traveler!

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Past Travel Gift Guides for Even More Ideas

2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021

That’s a wrap on my 2025 holiday travel gift guide. From all of us here at Angie Away, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and generally joyous season no matter what you celebrate. Thank you for another year of supporting us in doing what we love. We’ll see you in 2026!

When I think back on my Alaska travels, the day I spent bear viewing at Redoubt Mountain Lodge in Lake Clark National Park stands out as one of the most extraordinary, and not just from this trip… from all my trips. From the moment the red floatplane lifted off in Anchorage, every moment felt like being in my own National Geographic special. The turquoise waters of Crescent Lake, the towering volcanoes and the brown bears fishing just yards away combined into a wild, unforgettable experience.

This full-day tour is operated by Rust’s Flying Service and takes you from Anchorage to Crescent Lake in Lake Clark National Park via floatplane, then on a guided shoreline excursion for bear viewing. The day also includes a delicious lunch at Redoubt Mountain Lodge and a return flight over some of Alaska’s most dramatic scenery. It’s a seamless blend of adventure, wildlife observation and wilderness immersion. Want to know more about the tour, the flight and the bears? Read on for all the details and my unique discount code to get 10% of this bear-y fun adventure!

RELATED: What it’s really like to stay at Borealis Basecamp, Alaska’s Famous Igloo Hotel

Why Lake Clark National Park Is a Top Spot for Bear Viewing

Many travelers head straight to Katmai National Park to see the famous brown bears as they bulk up for their winter hibernation. While Katmai is iconic – and home to annual Fat Bear Week – Lake Clark National Park offers similar remarkable wildlife encounters in an even less crowded, even more remote setting. The park spans roughly four million acres of glaciers, volcanoes, jagged mountains, rivers, waterfalls and coastal marshes, and the only way in is via plane. There’s not a road for miles. Streams packed with salmon draw bears into shallow water, making it easy to spot them doing all the cute bear things just feet away. You literally don’t even need binoculars or much of a zoom lens (although we had both) – the bears are really THAT close.

Crescent Lake, where Redoubt Mountain Lodge is located, is one of the most reliable sites for bear sightings. Its glacier-fed waters and surrounding salt marshes attract bears during the salmon run. Unlike Katmai, where viewing platforms can be crowded, the experience at Lake Clark feels intimate. You are a small group quietly drifting along the shoreline in a very comfortable, covered pontoon boat, observing brown bears in their natural environment without distractions. Here’s my review of the Lake Clark Bear Viewing tour along with some tips on making the best of your day with the brown bears.

What’s the difference between a Brown Bear and a Grizzly Bear?

Brown bears and grizzlies are actually the same species, but “grizzly” usually refers to the inland populations of brown bears, while coastal brown bears tend to be larger thanks to richer food sources. Grizzlies often weigh between 400 and 790 pounds, while coastal brown bears can tip the scales over 1,500 pounds. Diets overlap, but grizzlies tend to rely more on berries, roots, and small mammals, whereas coastal brown bears gorge on salmon and other fish, which helps them grow huge. You’re more likely to spot grizzlies in Alaska’s interior, Yellowstone and parts of Canada, while the massive coastal brown bears roam Alaska’s shoreline and river valleys, especially where salmon runs are abundant.

How to Get to Lake Clark National Park from Anchorage

The tour begins at Rust’s Flying Service, located on Lake Hood, near Anchorage International Airport. Rust’s offers hotel shuttles and cruise port pick-ups, which makes getting to the floatplane base easy. Parking is very limited so if you must drive yourself as we did (we drove in from Alyeska Resort about 45 minutes south), keep that in mind and arrive early. At check-in, the staff reviews weight distribution, provides a safety briefing and introduces your pilot. Make sure you pay attention to the info they send you BEFORE the trip about what you can bring. There are weight limits and things to consider, so keep an eye out for those pre-trip emails.

The floatplane flight itself is such a fun part of the adventure. From takeoff, you soar over Cook Inlet, the Chigmit Mountains and on clear days, the volcanoes Mt. Redoubt and Mt. Iliamna. We spotted Beluga whales rolling in the waves beneath us as we passed river mouths emptying into the Cook Inlet. Our pilot knew exactly which river mouths are beluga hangouts, too, so we knew just where to look. The flight takes an hour or so, and if you’re there in September like we were, you’ll note the landscape is dotted with bright yellow birch trees.

Having flown on many smaller planes in my day, I was surprised at how smooth and easy the flight was. Our pilot Mike narrated the whole way, sharing about the different rivers and mountains we were passing, as well as islands and oil platforms in the Cook Inlet.

My favorite part of any float plane experience is landing on the water! I’m always in awe that this is a thing technology allows us to do, you know? It just feels so miraculous that we can fly across miles of wilderness and then land on a jewel-toned lake that doesn’t have a single road leading to it. It may well be the most remote place I’ve ever visited – it’s certainly one of the least visited national parks in the U.S.

I almost passed out when I saw two bears as we were landing and motoring over to Redoubt Mountain Lodge. If that was all I did the whole day, I could have gone home happy. But there was much more to come!

RELATED: The Aurora That Almost Got Away

What to Expect on a Lake Clark Bear Viewing Tour

After landing, the Rust’s pilot hands you over to the bear guide for the day, who greets you and gives a brief orientation on local wildlife and safety. We had a few folks in our group who were nervous about getting too close to bears, but they were quickly put at ease. The bears aren’t concerned with us in the least – all they want that fat juicy salmon!

It was sprinkling off and on when we arrived, so we grabbed some bright yellow Helly Hansen raincoats from a supply shed and boarded the covered pontoon boat. I don’t know what I was expecting, but it wasn’t a boat this comfortable. Probably because a few hours on our little fishing boat makes my tailbone hurt for a week. Not this boat! This pontoon has leather swivel chairs and long comfy sofas so you can stretch out and move around easily. It’s also covered, which came in very handy in the intermittent chilly rain.

The first bear encounter happened less than 10 minutes after we pushed off from shore. We saw a large female patrolling the shallows for salmon while her cub tumbled along the bank, practicing hunting skills under her watchful eye. I started snapping pictures and never stopped. (My memory cards can attest!)

Where Is Redoubt Mountain Lodge Located

Redoubt Mountain Lodge is the only privately owned lodge on the 9-mile, glacier-fed Crescent Lake, right in the heart of the Chigmit Mountains, with sweeping views of 10,197-foot Mt. Redoubt just eight miles away. The property has a storied past: originally a 5-acre parcel, it started with a simple log cabin. Over the years, it operated as a fishing lodge under a few different owners before being purchased in 1999 and reopened in 2000 as Redoubt Mountain Lodge. While the Rust’s bear tour is just for the day, it certainly got us thinking about coming back to the lodge next season for fishing, hiking, stand-up paddleboarding and yes, even more bear viewing. We’ve may or may not have already researched pricing and availability for next summer…

Watching the Brown Bears at Crescent Lake

The main attraction of the tour is observing Alaska brown bears in their natural habitat. Our guide Mike (yes, our pilot was named Mike, too, so don’t get them confused) are knowledgeable and ensure safe distances without compromising the experience.

Crescent Lake is fed by glaciers, hence the vivid, practically Caribbean hue. The lake and surrounding salt marshes attract brown bears during salmon season, as well as bald eagles and other wildlife. The combination of dramatic mountain scenery and abundant wildlife makes this one of the most memorable locations for bear viewing in Alaska.

The guides adjust the boat route based on bear movement. You can witness a mix of behavior, from fishing to social interactions, providing a complete view of how these animals thrive in a wild environment.

Bears may move along the shoreline to different fishing spots, while cubs continue to practice their skills. Bald eagles soar overhead, swooping to grab fish. The water reflects the surrounding mountains and sky, creating endless photographic opportunities.

Brown bears dominate the scene, but Lake Clark National Park is full of other wildlife. You could see moose along the shoreline, foxes moving through the brush and more than 200 species of birds, from bald eagles to migratory waterfowl. Much of what you’ll see depends on the season, so if there’s something specific (other than bears!) you want to see, research in advance.

Lunch at Redoubt Mountain Lodge

After the morning bear-viewing session, we returned to the lodge for a hearty, home-cooked lunch. We had the most incredible salmon with a tasty sauce. The dining room overlooks Crescent Lake, so even while eating, you are immersed in wilderness scenery. Lunch is a welcome break, offering warmth by the fire, a chance to recharge your phone/camera and time to discuss wildlife sightings with your guide and fellow travelers.

Photography Tips for Alaska Bear Viewing

Whether you’re a pro with a whole setup or you just have an iPhone, this tour is ideal. A telephoto lens (at least 200–400mm) allows close-up shots without disturbing the bears, but the newest iPhone has such a great zoom so that works, too. And you almost don’t even need it most of the time. Bring extra batteries if you have a camera and a cord for phone charging at lunchtime inside the lodge. (There are a few outlets.)

The floatplane flight to and from Anchorage also offers incredible aerial photography opportunities, including glaciers, volcanoes and Cook Inlet. Take precautions if you get motion sickness, as looking at screens can really get you and you don’t want to. I always have a little nausea goodie bag with ginger candy, non-drowsy dramamine, motion sickness patches and these motion sickness glasses. (I’m not sure if they fully work yet but they’re only $9 so I figured they’re a good addition to the kit.)

Best Time to Visit Lake Clark National Park for Bear Viewing

The best months for bear viewing are early July through late September. Salmon runs are at their peak and bears gather along the shorelines. July offers lush green landscapes, while August and September provide a balance of bear activity and stunning fall colors. Later in the season, bears begin preparing for winter hibernation.

Weather can be unpredictable, and floatplane access depends on conditions. I recommend scheduling at least one flexible day in Anchorage in case of delays or cancellations.

Logistics for Alaska Bear Viewing Tour in Lake Clark National Park

• Trip Time: ~11 hours
• Availability: Aug. 1 – Sept. 25 (subject to change so check with Rust’s)
• Activity Level: There is a small amount of walking and guests must be able to load into pontoon boat and float plane.
• Departures: 8 a.m. in August and 9 a.m. in September
• Price: $1,395 +3% transportation tax & $15 NPS fee (Use code ANGIEAWAY for 10% off!)

What to Pack for a Bear Viewing Tour

Layered clothing is essential! While I was warmed with excitement every time we spotted a new bear, the in-between moments when we were motoring around the lake could get a bit brisk. Base layers should wick moisture, mid-layers should provide warmth and outer layers should be waterproof – and don’t worry too much about being fashionable. You may end up wearing a bright yellow Helly Hansen raincoat over your snazzy attire anyhow. Footwear should be sturdy and comfortable for boat and dock activity.

Other essentials include:

• Hat (Obsessed with this bear-inspired beanie)
• Gloves (I used these mittens so I could use my camera and iPhone with ease)
• Sunglasses (polarized are helpful to see the salmon under the water)
• Insect repellent (we didn’t need it in September but the summer mosquitoes in Alaska are legendary)
• Binoculars
• Camera and extra batteries (We used GoPro 13 | iPhone 14 |Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with EF 75-300mm Lens
• Charging cord for phone to juice up at lunch time

Rust’s provides life jackets and, if needed, rain gear. Keep your bag light so you can have hands free for photography.

Is Rust’s Bear Viewing Tour Worth It?

Is this one of the pricier Alaska excursions? Sure – it’s not a cheap day out! But having done it, I can tell you a few things. I haven’t stopped thinking about it since we got home. It was so much more than sightseeing. From the floatplane over Cook Inlet to observing bears fishing and interacting, every element feels immersive. The guides were all knowledgeable, patient and prioritized safety without diminishing the authentic wilderness experience. We saw more than 20 bears! And while the count changes every day, that’s part of the fun – it really is the wilderness and you never know what bears or what behaviors you might get to see.

Gourmet lunch at Redoubt Mountain Lodge breaks up the day, allowing you to refuel before heading back to the lake for the afternoon session. By the end of the tour, you’ve seen multiple big adult bears, precocious cubs and eagles, all set against a backdrop of volcanoes and glaciers.

At around $1,400 per person plus fees, it is definitely a splurge, but the experience of seeing brown bears up close in one of the most remote parks in the U.S. makes it worth every dollar. If you’re prioritizing which Alaska experience to splurge on, you really can’t go wrong with this one.

Flying back to Anchorage, the sun sinking behind the mountains, I thought about pinching myself. Not since… well, yesterday flying to the center of Denali National Park with K2, have I been so overwhelmed with wonder. Alaska is truly in a category of its own and one of those destinations you will want to visit more than once.

If you want an accessible yet immersive Alaska wildlife experience, the Rust’s bear viewing tour at Redoubt Mountain Lodge is unparalleled. I see why people say it’s the No. 1 bear tour in Alaska!

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Ironically, Rick’s grizzly bear snore isn’t why I’m standing outside in a fairly cold forest in my pajamas, mismatched socks and hiking boots at 2 a.m. Minutes ago, my eyes popped open with purpose — but it took a second to recall exactly what that purpose was. Oh yes: the gamble I came all the way to Alaska for, the chance to see the Northern Lights. I jumped up, grabbed my cameras and threw on this ensemble that makes me grateful it’s too dark to see from igloo to igloo.

We checked into Borealis Basecamp two nights ago with the highest hopes. An hour north of Fairbanks, Alaska, it’s the only place like it in North America — a boutique, outdoorsy 100 acres designed to make viewing the Aurora Borealis as comfortable and luxurious as possible. The igloos have clear domes and 12-ft. ceilings, so you can snuggle amid high quality linens while viewing what indigenous Arctic people attributed to ancestral spirits or animal battles in the sky. From late August through mid-April, the Fairbanks area becomes a hub for aurora chasers. And ever since Borealis Basecamp opened in 2017, the property has gained a reputation as one of the best spots to watch the sky.

Posted up on the deck and surrounded by tall pines, the world feels unimaginably still — and obnoxiously, disappointingly dark. It’s been cloudy since we arrived and the heavy gray blanket seems thicker than ever. But I’m ready for a momentary break in the clouds. My DSLR is on a tripod, pre-programmed with aurora-appropriate settings I have been researching for weeks. My GoPro is on the table ready to capture a Night Lapse. And my iPhone is in my hand ready to experiment. 

The forecast on the three different apps I downloaded all promised strong aurora activity during our stay, but they don’t account for weather. Now on our last night, I gaze out into the darkest dark willing the clouds to part. Even just a tiny glimpse will do. According to University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) physics student Andy Witteman, “Big auroras can happen on nights which are seemingly quiet, and cloudy nights can break up just enough to let the purples and greens rain down from the stars!”

I’m betting on it.

I snap a photo with my iPhone in Night Mode and sure enough, the Northern Lights are strong tonight — strong enough to tinge the clouds a faint Elphaba green, but not nearly enough to break through with effervescent sparkling and dancing. Someone, somewhere at this latitude is getting an incredible show. I try not to be too jealous. In Alaska, nature deals the cards and sometimes you get a bad hand.

I admit defeat — quicker now that I’ve done this three nights in a row. These clouds aren’t going anywhere. I pack my cameras back into the igloo and join the snoring grizzly in the bed. 

The first time the Northern Lights evaded me, I was flying back from Calgary, having just spent a week with my mom exploring Western Canada onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train. 

“DING. This is your captain speaking. Sorry to interrupt for those of you sleeping but we’ve got a rare treat tonight and I didn’t want anyone to miss the incredible show of Northern Lights we’re seeing outside the left side of the plane,” the pilot said as I reached for my seatbelt, ready to climb over the 8 occupied seats between me and that left side window. But before I could make my move, another interjection: “DING. Also, we’re heading into some pretty strong turbulence so I’m going to leave the seatbelt sign on for the remainder of the flight. Flight attendants, secure the cabin and take your seats.” 

The lucky left side of the plane had the most epic, albeit turbulent, light show of their lives, while I sat staring forlornly out my right side window, with a pitch black view of nighttime in rural Canada.

I was RIGHT THERE. The Northern Lights I’d dreamed of seeing since I was a kid were happening so close I could almost touch them. Right place. Right time. Wrong seat.

Other times, I missed the aurora by a day. Just last month, I was eating my way through Traverse City, Michigan, the Cherry Capital of the World, and the day after I left — I kid you not — there was a brilliant, early season display of the aurora over Lake Michigan. And last year, I was in Sweden for a concert and the day after I left — I CONTINUE TO KID YOU NOT — there was a brilliant, late season display of the aurora. 

In my line of work, these near-misses happen a lot. I remember waiting on a geyser eruption for 3 hours with my sister once in Yellowstone. It was imminent… but not so imminent that we caught it. A few hours after we left, it went off. Same thing in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Rick and I hiked the Big Island for days wishing to witness Pele’s fury in person. A few weeks after we flew home — you guessed it — BIG FAT Big Island eruption. And to really rub lava salt in the wound, Kilauea has been erupting dramatically on and off since we left.

I try not to take these near-misses personally. The reality is that traveling to experience natural phenomena is a risky undertaking. You never know when a tropical storm might block out a meteor shower, or when whale sharks you flew halfway around the world to snorkel with took the day off. It’s kinda like betting it all on red in roulette — or maybe on 13. Odds really depends on which natural phenomena we’re comparing. Either way, it’s a gamble.

I suppose I could avoid this natural phenomena-dependent travel, but then I’d miss out on all the character-building disappointment. The drama, the anticipation, the complaining — it’s all a part of the experience, right?

I travel all the time, but I’m no Captain Cook. Nearly every path I walk has footprints much older than mine leading the way. Anybody with a credit card can book a trip to Alaska, stay up all night and cross their fingers. Visiting unknown lands in search of new wonders just isn’t the risk it used to be. So we add new layers to make it feel more adventurous. Like spending thousands of dollars on a swanky hotel and hoping for clear skies.

That might be worth unpacking with a therapist. But I digress.

At any rate, there are plenty of sure things in travel if a guaranteed outcome is required. The Pacific Ocean will always be waiting at the end of Route 66. Stonehenge will always be henging. Seasonal destinations like Denali shut down right on schedule every year. Some travel experiences you can set your watch to.

But nature isn’t on anybody’s schedule. The not knowing how it’s all going to turn out is what makes it so juicy. Addictive, even.

There have been plenty of times when the risk paid off, so I know better than to bellyache about this week’s clouds. I stayed up all night on my last visit to Yellowstone and saw one of the strongest showings of the Perseids in recent memory. I wouldn’t have experienced the last two solar eclipses that passed over the US if I hadn’t ignored the forecasts calling for storms. I still get chills thinking about the perfect sunny days I ended up with, and the awed hush over nature that came with the rare daytime darkening of the sun.

In the morning, we drive south toward Denali National Park on the scenic George Parks Highway, watching for feisty bull moose since it’s mating season. We check into our second hotel of the trip, the Grande Denali Resort. It sits above the tourist-centric town just outside Denali National Park’s entrance, giving an eagle-eye view of everything below. The 6-million acre national park sprawls as far you can see, the Nenana River snakes along its eastern border and the typically crowded restaurants are mostly shuttered now that it’s mid-September and most tourists have turned back to the south. It’s a stark contrast to Borealis Basecamp, which is just kicking off aurora season. There, we were spoiled with tons of activities and dining options. Here in Denali, it’s all “Closed for the Season” signs and my rumbling tummy.

That night in the parking lot at Grand Denali, I watched the clouds roll in again. Another bet, another bust.

By the fifth night, I almost forgot about the aurora — not because I gave up, but because Alaska delivered so much wonder. We tore through the pine forest at Borealis Basecamp on an ATV, getting absolutely drenched in mud in the process. Then we walked a reindeer, aptly named Aurora, through the woods. We’ve eaten some of the best food I’ve had in a long time, from every dish at Basecamp’s Latitude 65 to a juicy Yak burger and King Crab grilled cheese from 49th State Brewery.

Denali added another layer of awe to our trip. Massive bull moose paraded, Dall sheep balanced on cliff edges and a couple snowshoe hares hid in the red underbrush. I know it’s just a pipe dream (because there’s no way this Floridian could hack it in an Alaskan winter), but we joke about how lovely it would be to live here with all these animals and millions of miles of wilderness.

I’m struck by a thought that an Alaskan could be standing in Florida right now, waiting for a manatee to surface or hoping to catch the blue fire of a bioluminescent bay. An ordinary Tuesday for me could be the top of someone else’s bucket list. Meanwhile, I’m not getting out of bed for an alligator sighting, but I’ll drive around all day in search of moose.

Who knows why awe feels like it hits harder when it happens far from home? Maybe it’s because we’ve had to invest something to chase it. Sometimes the bet doesn’t pay off the way you imagined — but the game itself was worth playing.

After our full day hiking and photographing animals in Denali National Park, I collapse into bed shortly after 9. This seems to happen every night as Eastern time has me in the worst chokehold I can recall. Probably because I’ve been waking up every few hours to see if the lights are out and interrupting my REM sleep. Not tonight though. I lump all the camera gear into a pile in the corner, muttering something about charging batteries and offloading memory cards in the morning. I am too tired for words, unconcerned with polar light shows and unconscious before Rick has even started getting ready for bed. 

I am soon roused from a deep sleep by an unfamiliar sound — not the grizzly bear/chainsaw medley I’m used to. Is that ringing? My eyes pop open in the hotel room illuminated only by the show Rick is watching. I reach for the hotel phone on the nightstand.

“Hello?” I say, groggily, barely registering where I am in the world.

“This is the front desk with your wake up call,” a cheery voice announces. I look at the clock. 10:15 p.m. Weird time for a wake up call.

“Oh, okay?” 

“The Northern Lights are visible now over Mt. Healy. Have a great night.” 

*https://www.explorefairbanks.com/blog/post/aurora-season-has-arrived  

Traverse City is often called the Cherry Capital of the World, but wow, there’s so much more to it than that! What really surprised me on my visit was just how much this corner of Northern Michigan has to offer. It’s a destination where vineyards stretch down to the water, farm-to-table dining is a way of life and sunsets glow over the bays for what feels like hours. It’s all about boating and lazy lake days and the absurdly tall sand dunes and yes… cherries! I just spent three nights exploring the best of Michigan wine country, with time to sip, sail, hike and unwind at a resort that has everything in one spot.

Here’s my Traverse City itinerary and tips for planning your own trip.

Getting to Traverse City

Cherry Capital Airport makes getting here simple, with nonstop flights from many major hubs including Chicago, Detroit, Dallas and New York. While I didn’t have a direct option from Jacksonville, I only had a quick layover in Washington DC (DCA) before touching down. From the airport, most hotels and resorts are just minutes away.

If you’re driving from Chicago, the trip takes about 5.5 hours. From Detroit, it’s roughly 4 hours. Grand Rapids is about 2 hours away. Many visitors take M-22 along the shoreline for scenic views of the lake and rolling countryside. Winter driving can be icy, so check conditions if you’re visiting between December and February.

Getting Around Traverse City

A rental car is essential if you want to explore the surrounding wineries, orchards and Lake Michigan shoreline. Roads are well maintained and traffic is light compared with larger cities. Parking downtown is generally easy but can fill up during weekends and festival events, so plan ahead if you’re heading to popular restaurants or attractions.

Downtown Traverse City is very walkable. Shops, cafes, restaurants and waterfront areas are all within easy walking distance. Even if you have a car, you’ll likely spend most of your downtown time on foot.

For trips to nearby wineries or orchards, plan for 20 to 40 minutes of driving each way depending on the location. Most wineries have ample parking and offer outdoor seating, which is ideal for tasting while enjoying views of the hills and vineyards.

If you want to visit multiple towns or explore along the lake, it’s easy to plan half-day or full-day drives. Popular routes include a loop along M-22 that passes small towns, beaches and overlooks, making it simple to combine scenic drives with stops at cider mills, orchards and small wineries.

Best Time to Visit Traverse City

Traverse City has something for every season but the experiences vary widely depending on when you go. Here’s a breakdown:

Spring (March to May)
Spring is quieter which makes it perfect if you’re looking to avoid crowds. The orchards start to bloom and farmers markets begin to reopen with fresh local produce. It’s a great time for hiking especially as trails come alive with greenery and wildflowers. By May you can also catch early cherry blossoms around the city.

Summer (June to August)
Summer is peak tourist season and the best time for cherry lovers. Traverse City celebrates the National Cherry Festival every July, a multi-day event with parades, concerts and cherry-themed foods and family-friendly activities. This is also the ideal season for lake activities including boating, kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming in Grand Traverse Bay. Summer evenings are lively downtown with outdoor dining and frequent live music.

Fall (September to November)
Fall is arguably the most scenic time to visit with vibrant foliage coloring the vineyards, orchards and forests. September and October are perfect for wine tasting, cider sampling and apple picking. Cooler temperatures make for pleasant hiking and driving along M-22 for a gorgeous fall colors road trip.

Winter (December to February)
Winter is quieter and ideal if you prefer a slower pace. Downtown streets are cozy, local breweries and cafes are warm and nearby ski areas offer snow sports. While some outdoor attractions close, this is the perfect season to enjoy hearty comfort food, wine tastings in less-crowded wineries and serene lakeside walks with snow on the shore. I’ve also heard there are some fun snow-shoe winery tours that even I, the consummate think-skinned Floridian, would like to try.

Where to Stay: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

I checked into Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, just a 10-minute drive from downtown, and it turned out to be the ideal home base. My room had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking East Bay and every morning I’d catch the sunlight shimmering across the water. The resort has multiple restaurants, golf courses, an impressive spa, indoor pickleball courts, massive gym and even a private beach club in summer. Read on for more about my time at Grand Traverse Resort below.

Check Pricing and Availability at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Day 1: Wine Tasting on Old Mission Peninsula and Exploring Downtown Traverse City

I suggest spending a whole day out on Old Mission Peninsula, where vineyards line the road and views of the bays open up around every curve. My first stop was Mission Point Lighthouse, at the very tip of the peninsula. It’s a beautiful spot to take a walk, climb to the top (it’s a tight squeeze so maybe avoid if you’re claustrophobic), snap some photos, dip your toes in the cold, clear lake and get your bearings before wine tasting.

Old Mission Peninsula and nearby Leelanau Peninsula are on the 45th parallel, the same latitude as world-famous wine regions like France’s Bordeaux and Northern Rhône, Italy’s Piedmont, Oregon’s Willamette Valley and New Zealand’s Central Otago. The bays on either side create a natural microclimate that helps moderate the temperature, protecting vines from harsh winters and allowing grapes to ripen slowly. That means bright, balanced wines with crisp acidity – perfect for varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and my favorite, Riesling.

There are 10 wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, and dozens more throughout the region. I visited Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery, where I climbed aboard their wine wagon for a guided tasting through 150+ acres of grapes. This is a fun way to sip outdoors (with a wine necklace!) while learning about Michigan’s wines.

Check Availability: 5 Hours, 4 Wineries Guided Tour on Old Mission Peninsula

Don’t miss Brys Estate’s Secret Garden, a dreamy spot filled with lavender in the summer and all sorts of fragrant flowers and seasonal goodies in the adorable shop. Don’t leave without some travel sized lavender hand sanitizer!

I found this to be an extremely accessible, approachable wine region – there’s no pretense, no wine snobs that I could see. Just friendly folks happy to share their love for Traverse City and its incredible food and wine scene.

After a half day or more touring the wineries, you have to check out Downtown Traverse City. It’s the kind of place that invites you to wander with no strict agenda. Just lolly-gagging on a late August day was exactly what I needed. I spent an afternoon strolling the streets and found a mix of local boutiques, artisanal foods and small galleries that made me want to linger.

One of my favorite stops was Fustini’s Oils and Vinegars, a small shop that completely exceeded my expectations. Tasting the infused olive oils and aged balsamics is an experience in itself – the flavors are so vibrant and balanced that it’s easy to see why locals swear by them. I didn’t get out of there unscathed: I’m now the proud owner of SIX bottles, including fig balsamic to use at next year’s Figchella. It’s a perfect reminder that Traverse City isn’t just about wine; it’s about quality ingredients and regional craftsmanship.

Just down the street, Grand Traverse Pie Company celebrates the area’s cherry-growing legacy. I grabbed a whole pie to take home to Florida, where yes, we ate it warm with vanilla ice cream and Rick agreed I need to plan a new trip with him involved. But good news: GTPIE ships their pies around the country so you can get them in time for your next fiesta!

In addition to food, downtown Traverse City is a great place for boutique shopping. Local clothing shops, home décor stores and galleries make it easy to find a unique gift or a keepsake from your trip. Even if shopping isn’t your main focus, wandering the streets gives you a real sense of the community and creativity that makes this city special. Downtown Traverse City is endlessly charming, filled with boutiques, cafés and tasting rooms. Plan on at least a few hours here to explore and shop.

Day 2: M-22 Road Trip and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

No Traverse City itinerary is complete without a day trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – and you know I’m a sucker for a national park so I rented a car and made my way to the coast. It’s only about 40 minutes from downtown, and the drive itself is charming part of the experience. Rolling hills, orchards, vineyards and truly adorable small towns make the journey just as important as the dunes themselves. I took my time, stopping to snap photos and peek into local shops along the way.

LISTEN: M22 Road Trip Audio Guide

The dunes are breathtaking – and I mean that literally. They are no joke to climb, and I most certainly did not attempt the whole official Dune Climb nor the roundtrip down to the lake’s edge. The dunes rise nearly 450 feet above Lake Michigan, and climbing to the top (or driving to the top on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive) gives you sweeping views of aquamarine water and endless sky. The hike is a challenge if you’re tackling the big dunes – it can take hours and if you can’t make your way back up the steep hill, it’s an equally steep $3,000 for rescue. For a less strenuous experience, scenic drives offer overlooks that are just as spectacular.

I tackled a few dunes but ultimately chose the winding scenic route with its multiple overlooks and trailheads. Each stop feels like its own little adventure, from forested hikes to Lake Michigan views that go on and on and on and rival the turquoise hues of the Caribbean. Summer is great for cooling off in the lake (if you’re not a giant baby when it comes to cold water, like me) or picnicking on the sand.

TIP: Bring your kids here and let them run amuck. The kids I saw were running up and down the dunes at full speed and having the time of their lives… and you know they slept GREAT all the way home.

On the way back, I stopped in Glen Arbor to shop for souvenirs like cherry salsa and cherry barbecue sauce at the original Cherry Republic location and a pop into adorable Cottage Book Shop. It was a reminder that part of the charm of this region is the small-town hospitality – everyone I met was as sweet as cherry pie. (Yeah, I said it.)

Day 3: Relaxation and Resort Time

After two busy days of exploring, I dedicated my last full day to soaking in everything Grand Traverse Resort has to offer. Since it was a Sunday, I started with a leisurely breakfast at Aerie, enjoying views over East Bay and a buffet with a custom pasta bar, omelette station and every tasty pastry and breakfast item you could want. After breakfast, I made my way down to the huge spa area, with plunge pools, private outdoor hot tubs, a sauna and of course, lots of treatment rooms. I chose the 50-minute Pinot and Peppermint massage, made with ingredients from Brys Estate wines to bring everything from my trip full circle. It was deeply relaxing and far too short. Book the longer option, you won’t regret it.

Check Pricing and Availability at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

I spent the rest of the day wandering the resort property, discovering quiet spots along the golf courses and soaking in the peaceful scenery. The resort’s layout is ideal – everything is close together, but it never feels crowded, which makes it easy to move between activities or just pause and enjoy the view. There was often live entertainment in the main lobby plus shops and multiple restaurants to choose from. I got the Bloody Mary latte every day while I was there – and fortunately it does not contain tomato juice because that would be gross. It’s actually a seasonal coffee special with cherry & white mocha syrups. I just about ate my weight in cherry everything in Traverse City, and I don’t have a single regret.

In the evening, I joined a sunset sail on the Wind Dancer, and I can’t think of a more serene way to end a trip to Traverse City. We glided across Grand Traverse Bay with local wine (Cherry Riesling is my new fave) and treats in hand, chatting with new friends and watching the sky slowly transform from bright blue to burning gold. The Northern Michigan sunset is famous for good reason. The colors linger and evolve, casting soft pink and orange light across the water, and it felt like the perfect way to reflect on the last few days absorbing this new-to-me corner of the world. It got a but chilly once the sun was almost gone, so dress in layers and bring an extra blanket if you have one.

Check Pricing and Availability: Wind Dancer Happy Hour Cruise

Suffice it to say, it was love at first bite with Traverse City. The wineries are incredibly approachable, so you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy tastings, pairings and vineyard views. The food is fresh and abundant, from crisp apples and cherries straight from local orchards to farm-to-table meals that highlight the region’s blessed climate. Everywhere you look, cherries make an appearance – in pies, jams, candy, balsamic vinegar, lattes and barbecue sauce. The Sleeping Bear Dunes offer one heckuva a hike and a view to match, and the people here are genuinely friendly, making you feel welcome the moment you arrive. It would be be a perfect spot for a low-key bachelorette weekend, an inspiring writers retreat or a romantic holiday getaway.

If it sounds like I’m listing all the excuses to go back to Traverse City… well, I am. I can’t wait to return!

Have you ever visited Traverse City, Michigan? What would you add to this itinerary? Do you have a favorite cherry-forward dish? Tell me in the comments!

As a seasoned travel expert who’s worn many hats – from blogger to author and now professional podcast host – I’m proud to be part of this exciting audio wave that brings travel ideas straight to your ears. Whether you’re plotting your next getaway or just dreaming big, travel podcasts offer a convenient way to learn travel tips, budget hacks and ideas for things to do on the go, making the most of every moment you have to dream, plan or research.

In this list, you’ll find a well-rounded selection that blends veteran podcasters like Chris Christensen, the OG of travel podcasting, with newer shows and fresh voices bringing exciting perspectives. From long-time experts to up-and-coming storytellers, this lineup covers all the bases to keep your travel bucket list filled with ideas. I’ve taken care to include podcasts that are consistently producing episodes. We all know that it’s easier to start a travel blog or podcast than it is to actually keep up with one, so I’ve taken into account longevity and expertise in curating this list.

Ready to tune in? Let’s dive into the best travel podcasts of 2025 that will keep your wanderlust alive and your next itinerary full of unforgettable adventures.

Best Travel Podcasts of 2025

But Did You Die?

Am I really going to put my own podcasts at the top of the list? Yes, yes I am. That’s the beauty of being the boss!

For a travel podcast that’s equal parts funny and real, my sister Rachel and I host But Did You Die?, where we share stories of travel mishaps, awkward moments and the times we just wanted to call it quits – all with humor and a dash of sisterly banter you’ve come to expect from us. It’s a reminder that even the messy parts of travel make the best stories and learning moments. Perfect for anyone who loves travel but doesn’t take themselves too seriously. Note that we’re on a maternity leave hiatus right now, so you have time to catch up on the 30 episodes we’ve already shared before we get back in the swing of things.

Traveling with AAA

If you want travel advice that actually works and stories from people who’ve been there, Traveling with AAA is a great place to start. I host the show every week with guests you might recognize from my travel world – friends and colleagues I’ve known for years, plus new experts and surprise celebrities who always wow me with fresh ideas and destinations I hadn’t thought of before. If you still think this is just a podcast about roadside assistance, it’s time to press play and get your mind blown.

Some of my favorite episodes:

• On the Road with NASCAR Champion Joey Logano
• The Art of Pilgrimage with the Brat Pack’s Andrew McCarthy
• Exploring NYC with Pauline Frommer
• The Joy of Solo Travel
• Foraging, Fishing and Hunting with BIG’s David Moscow
• How Travel Gets You Out Of Your Comfort Zone with National Geographic’s Jeff Jenkins
• Sicily with Best-Selling Author Jo Piazza

There’s a misconception that you have to be a AAA member to listen, but rest assured – this is definitely a podcast for EVERYONE. We dive into all kinds of travel – from road trips close to home to far-flung adventures – and cover the stuff you really want to know: theme parks, cruising, travel safety and how to make trips easier on your wallet. We’ve chatted about everything from visiting famous filming locations and New Zealand to Universal Epic Universe and National Parks. Think of it as hanging out with friends who are just as excited about travel as you are.

The Amateur Traveler with Chris Christensen

You can’t mention best travel podcasts without having Chris Christensen in the same sentence. Chris is a veteran in the podcast world and his main podcast – The Amateur Traveler – has been churning out episodes since 2005. Each episode focuses on one destination, featuring interviews with locals, travel experts and visitors who provide insider tips and firsthand experiences. (Check out my appearance on episode 909 to chat about my hometown!) The show is perfect for travelers who want detailed, reliable information to help plan trips beyond the usual tourist spots. If you’re going somewhere, do a search to see if Chris has covered it and start your planning there.

Jump with Traveling Jackie

Hosted by Jackie Nourse, Jump encourages listeners to take the plunge and explore the world on their own terms. With a background in adventure and solo travel, Jackie shares inspiring stories and practical tips from fellow travelers who have embraced the unknown. The podcast is a great mix of motivation and real-world advice, perfect if you’re dreaming about your first big trip or planning your next solo adventure.

Frommer’s Travel Show with Pauline Frommer

If you know anything about travel, you know the name Frommer, so it goes without saying that this podcast is one of the very, very best. Since Arthur Frommer shook up travel with Europe on $5 a Day back in 1957, Frommer guidebooks have been a trusted companion for American travelers. Today, his daughter Pauline Frommer hosts a podcast that’s all about what’s new and exciting in travel right now. The show has more than 500 episodes covering everything from hot destinations and smart ways to save money to trends that make your trips more fun, plus recommendations for travel-inspired books and shows you can enjoy from home. Some of the travel world’s biggest voices – think Samantha Brown, Andrew McCarthy, Jason Cochran, me () and top journalists from outlets like the New York Times and Washington Post – are guests, so tuning in is always time well spent.

Condé Nast Traveler: Women Who Travel

Women Who Travel, hosted by Lale Arikoglu, highlights the diverse stories of women exploring the world. The podcast features conversations with female travelers, authors and experts who share solo travel tips, cultural experiences and the joys and challenges unique to women on the road. It’s inspiring and thought-provoking, opening new perspectives on what travel can be.

Smart Travel (NerdWallet)

Smart Travel features NerdWallet’s travel experts Sally French and Meghan Coyle as they explore practical ways to get the most out of your travel budget. Each episode breaks down travel strategies, tools and current trends, helping listeners make informed decisions about planning their next trip.

Topics include budgeting methods, comparing travel points and miles, choosing between hotels and Airbnb, understanding the role of travel agents and timing your bookings throughout the year. The hosts also discuss recent policy updates, review popular travel apps and share destination-specific advice for places like Hawaii and Europe.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo adventure, Smart Travel provides clear insights to help you navigate the complexities of modern travel planning. It’s SO practical and so helpful.

The Thought Card

Hosted by Danielle Desir Corbett, a travel expert and author with experience visiting over 27 countries, the show offers 200+ episodes so far of practical advice on saving for trips, finding affordable flights and accommodations and using travel rewards effectively. (Something I’m still trying to figure out!)

Every other week, Danielle shares strategies to build a travel fund, manage debt and make smarter financial choices – all with the goal of making travel more accessible. Episodes cover topics like travel budgeting, how to travel for free or nearly free, must-see destinations and selecting the best travel rewards credit cards. The Thought Card provides grounded insights to help you turn your travel goals into reality.

Out of Office

Hosted by Kiernan and Ryan, Out of Office offers a relaxed and friendly vibe perfect for travel lovers. With 200+ episodes of interviews and stories from locals, expats and frequent travelers, the show delivers fresh destination ideas and practical tips. This is a great listen if you enjoy a side of banter with your travel inspiration. It’s like eavesdropping on friends who are plotting their next getaway.

Travel with Rick Steves

Rick Steves practically (ok, and literally) wrote the book on exploring Europe with curiosity and respect. His podcast goes beyond the usual tourist spots, offering conversations, detailed destination stories and insider tips that bring local culture and history to life. If you’re looking for a travel companion who’s knowledgeable and down-to-earth and a legend, Rick Steves is the voice you want in your ear as you plan your next adventure.

Exploring the National Parks

Ash and John from Dirt In My Shoes are seasoned travelers who know their way around America’s National Parks and they’ve shared 100+ episodes and counting. Their podcast is a down-to-earth guide to help you prepare for any park visit, whether you’re headed to iconic spots like Yellowstone or exploring a quieter, less-visited park. Through engaging stories, helpful tips and plenty of fun facts, they share what makes each park special and how to get the most out of your trip. Expect honest advice and practical insights to make your next national park adventure both memorable and manageable.

Want more national park-themed podcasts? Check out:

• National Park After Dark
• The Secret Lives of Parks
• Field Trip from The Washington Post
• National Park Junior Ranger Podcast

Best Theme Park Podcasts

And speaking of parks, I can’t leave out my other favorite kind of parks… the “theme” kind! I’ll be the first to admit I haven’t delved into the world of theme park podcasts, but they are plentiful. It’s a saturated genre, to be sure, but I wanted to share some of the top picks in case you’re planning a trip to Universal or Disney.

• WDW Radio with Lou Mongello
• All About the Mouse Disney Fan Podcast
• The Parks Academy
• For Your Amusement
• Addicted to the Mouse
• Rope Drop Radio
• Unlocking the Magic
• Unofficial Universal Orlando Podcast
• Discover Universal (Universal’s official podcast)
• UO Explorers

Why Podcasts Are a Game-Changer for Travel Planning

Listening to travel podcasts is like having a world traveler whisper secret tips and stories directly into your ear. Podcasts offer rich storytelling that sparks imagination and insider insights you might not find in guidebooks. They suit all types of listeners – whether you’re a planner soaking up practical tips, a culture lover craving stories from locals or a busy multitasker wanting entertainment on your morning commute.

After years of blogging and writing books, I find podcasting to be a refreshing new medium for me to share about my love for the world, its fun destinations and its people. It’s wonderful to just hop on and chat with guests or my sister, sharing real talk without the pressure of perfect prose and punctuation. The conversations feel alive and spontaneous and not so meticulously crafted like my other work. It’s such a fun new adventure – I’m sure you can see why I love it so much.

This curated list of travel podcasts blends a mix of storytelling, practical advice and inspiration – but I only have so much time in the day to tune into them. So if there’s one you think I need to include on this list, please drop me a note! I want this best travel podcast list to be a resource for years to come.

Happy listening and safe travels!

A few years ago, I started hosting an annual party called Figchella – part celebration of the harvest, part excuse to cook an absurd number of fig-themed dishes. This may surprise you because I am widely known as a Door Dash queen. I am not often found in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients. I don’t own any high tech culinary gadgets. My dinnerware and linens absolutely do not match, and I definitely don’t have one of those cool KitchenAid mixers or Le Creuset anything (maybe someday). But my fig tree inspired me to experiment with my domestic side when I’m not traveling, and now it’s become a fun part of my life I look forward to every summer.

WATCH: Figchella 2: 2 Fast, 2 Figious Recap

It started with just a few friends and some fig and goat cheese flatbreads. Now it’s a multi-course event complete with fig cocktails, fig mains and desserts where figs take center stage. I spend months nurturing the fig tree and growing herbs and peppers, weeks planning the menu and researching fig recipes. Then with the first fruits, I make a variety of fig jams and syrups (recipes below) to go in some of the Figchella courses, and spend the rest of my time coming up with new ways to let this fruit shine.

Every dish I serve has one thing in common: it starts in my backyard.

Because figs are fragile and don’t last long once picked, they’re perfect for preserving, baking or pairing with bold flavors like goat cheese, honey, prosciutto and herbs. Over the past few years, I’ve tested dozens of creative fig recipes and figured out what works for both casual snacking and elevated dinner party courses. Whether you’re harvesting your own crop or buying fresh figs from the store, these recipes will help you make the most of every last one.

If you’re not sure where to start, I always recommend beginning with a classic: homemade fig jam. Mine is a local legend around here – neighbors and cousins just keep showing up at my front door to see if I’ve got any more jars. It’s sweet, a little tangy and completely addictive spread on sourdough or spooned over grilled meats. Once you’ve made jam, you can work your way through appetizers, main dishes, cocktails and even fig desserts. Below, you’ll find 10 of my favorite fig recipes – straight from the Figchella archives. I’ll add new recipes every year, too, as I try never to repeat a dish twice.

My Other Recipes You Might Like:

• Great Grandma’s Famous Carrot Chili
• Our Favorite Homemade Dog Food Recipe
• Cheap & Easy Crockpot Chicken & Dumplings Recipe
• Famous Salmon Risotto Recipe from Katerina’s restaurant in Mykonos

Why I Love Cooking with Fresh Figs

Figs are incredibly versatile and take on both sweet and savory flavors beautifully. One minute you’re stirring them into a honey-laced galette, the next you’re roasting them with balsamic vinegar and spooning them over pork tenderloin. Some of my favorite fig dishes come from experimenting with opposites – sharp cheese with soft fruit, salty meat with sticky-sweet glaze, fresh herbs with syrupy jam.

They also connect me to the seasons in a way not much else does. My fig tree doesn’t care about my schedule or my to-do list. It ripens when it’s ready, drops fruit when I wait too long and teaches me to be present. When it’s fig season in Jacksonville, I know I’ll be barefoot in the grass, basket in hand, racing to beat the squirrels to the best ones. Figchella guests get only a few days’ notice that the party is on. I never thought a fig-based dinner party would be the hottest ticket in town, but here we are.

Because figs are so fleeting, I’ve learned to preserve the harvest in as many ways as possible. I make fig jam by the batch and freeze extras for later. I dry sliced figs in a low oven to use in winter baking. I infuse vodka with fresh figs for next year’s cocktails. These simple tricks make the fig season stretch a little longer, even if the fruit itself is only here for a few short weeks.

13 Fig Recipes I’ve Served at Figchella

Fig Essentials

Fig Jam

This fig jam is not only a showstopper at Figchella, where every guest takes home a jar, it’s also one of the easiest recipes on the entire list. All you need are fresh figs, sugar, lemon juice and pectin. That’s it. You can scale the recipe up or down depending on how many figs you’ve got – whether it’s a full harvest basket or just a handful you managed to save from the squirrels.

I use this recipe as my baseline for fig jam, but I usually add strawberries and/or peppers for spice. This year I had plain fig jam, strawberry fig jam and strawberry fig pepper jam, and they all were in equally high demand. So you can’t go wrong.

Strawberry Fig Jam Recipe

While this isn’t a canned jam recipe, you can preserve it that way if you want to make it shelf-stable. I usually just keep a few jars in the fridge or freezer to pull out for cheese boards, roast meats or lazy Sunday breakfasts. Once you taste it, you’ll want to put it on everything.

Fig Simple Syrup

If you’ve got a few extra figs and about 15 minutes, you can make this fig simple syrup – a deeply flavorful addition to cocktails, mocktails, iced tea, drizzled over pancakes, as a marinade or in a dressing. It’s one of the easiest ways to stretch fig season just a little longer. With just figs, sugar and water, this recipe comes together quickly and keeps in the fridge for weeks. The result is a rich, subtly fruity syrup that adds a touch of elegance to just about anything you pour it into.

Fig Simple Syrup Recipe

To store your fig simple syrup, let it cool completely after simmering, then strain out the solids using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Pour the syrup into a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep for up to 2 weeks, though you’ll probably use it up before then. For longer storage, you can also freeze it in small portions using an ice cube tray – perfect for tossing into drinks or sauces later on. Give it a quick shake before each use, as some settling is normal.

Fig Cocktails

Fig-a-Licious

This Fig-A-Licious cocktail was the first signature sip of Figchella – light, bubbly, fruity and just a little fancy. I bought a bunch of mismatching crystal classes from the thrift store so it felt like a very Gatsby start to the Figchella tradition.

It’s the kind of drink that tastes like late summer in a glass, thanks to ripe figs, a touch of brown sugar and a bright splash of lemon. The muddled fig mixture becomes a naturally sweet, slightly jammy base that pairs beautifully with crisp, chilled prosecco. It’s easy to make by the glass or for a crowd, and it’s a stunning way to put your backyard fig haul to delicious use. Don’t forget the fig slice garnish for that extra flair.

Ingredients:

• 10 to 12 ripe figs, sliced and stems removed (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 bottle (750 mL) chilled prosecco
• Ice (crushed or cubed)

Note: If your figs are very small, you may need a few more. Make sure they’re soft, ripe and juicy for the best flavor.

Fig Diesel

The Fig Diesel is the dramatic, layered showpiece that kicks off Figchella 2: 2 Fast, 2 Figious with serious flair. Empress 1908 Indigo Gin and housemade fig syrup (see above for recipe) with a spritz of lemon juice and a halved fresh fig speared on a rosemary sprig makes it unmistakably Figchella-worthy. It’s refreshing, a little moody and built to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz housemade fig syrup
• 2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
• Sparkling water
• Juice of ¼ lemon (a quick squirt)
• Ice – You could also pre-make rosemary ice cubes for a little extra flair!
• Fresh fig halves
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (strip half the stem down and use to spear halved fresh figs)

Instructions:
Start with a clear glass with some ice and add the fig syrup first so it settles at the base. Slowly pour the sparkling water over the back of a spoon to create a distinct middle layer. Top gently with the Empress Indigo Gin to form the final fizzy layer. Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. Garnish with a halved fig speared on a rosemary sprig and serve immediately—ideally while yelling “I live my life a quarter fig at a time.”

Fig Appetizers

Brûléed Gouda and Fig Bites

These brûléed gouda and fig bites are a playful, bite-sized amuse bouche that always gets a reaction – mostly because I get to break out the blowtorch. They’re simple to make but feel fancy, and that little layer of caramelized sugar on top adds just the right amount of crunch to balance the creamy cheese and soft fig. You’ll want to freeze the figs for about 20 minutes first to make them easier to slice cleanly. Then just layer a cube of gouda, sprinkle with a pinch of sugar and torch until golden and bubbling. It’s easy, dramatic and undeniably fun because, well… fire.

Tools and Ingredients:

• Butane kitchen torch
• Fresh figs, sliced (freeze for 20 minutes first)
• Aged gouda, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Granulated sugar for brûlée
• Toothpicks or small skewers for serving

Figgy Flatbreads with Prosciutto + Goat Cheese

This flatbread with fresh figs, arugula, prosciutto and goat cheese is one of those dishes that looks fancy but comes together fast – perfect for a Figchella appetizer or a weeknight dinner when you want something a little special. The sweetness of the figs pairs perfectly with the salty prosciutto and tangy goat cheese, while the peppery arugula keeps everything feeling fresh. A final drizzle of balsamic glaze adds just the right amount of depth and acidity. Serve it as an appetizer cut into slices, or pair it with a salad for a light meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 flatbread or naan (store-bought or homemade)
• 3–4 fresh figs, sliced
• 1 cup arugula
• 2 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 3–4 slices prosciutto
• Olive oil for brushing
• Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly brush the flatbread with olive oil and bake for 5–7 minutes until just crisp. Remove from the oven and top with sliced figs, crumbled goat cheese and torn prosciutto. Return to oven for another 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Top with arugula and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Fig Jam + Pimiento Cheese Roasted Peppers

These fig jam and pimiento cheese stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon hit every flavor note – sweet, smoky, spicy and creamy. They’re one of my favorite ways to use up a jar of homemade fig jam and are always a crowd-pleaser at Figchella. The heat from the roasted jalapeños balances beautifully with the sweet jam and rich cheese, and the crispy bacon holds it all together like the snack MVP it is. You can customize the filling with different cheeses or swap the peppers based on your heat preference. Bonus: they only take about 20–25 minutes in the oven, making them an easy appetizer that looks and tastes like you tried harder than you did.

Ingredients:

• 8–10 jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
• ½ cup pimiento cheese (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup fig jam
• 8–10 slices of thin-cut bacon, halved
• Toothpicks (optional, to secure bacon)

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix the pimiento cheese and fig jam together, then spoon into each jalapeño half. Wrap each stuffed pepper with a half-slice of bacon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is bubbling.

Variations:

• Swap pimiento cheese for goat cheese, cream cheese or sharp cheddar – you can’t choose a wrong cheese
• Try sweet mini peppers for less heat or serranos if you like more
• Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped nuts on top before roasting for extra flavor and texture

These are best served warm but good luck keeping them on the tray long enough to cool. The men just about burned their mouths right of at Figchella 2 when I pulled these out of the oven!

Fig Salads

Burrata + Fig Salad

This fig and burrata salad is the kind of dish that makes people pause mid-bite. It’s fresh, creamy, salty and sweet all at once – an easy yet elegant starter that I could eat every day. The base is a mix of greens (I like spinach or arugula for some bite), topped with torn burrata, juicy quartered figs, candied pecans for crunch and delicate prosciutto rosettes for a salty-smooth contrast. A drizzle of huckleberry balsamic vinegar ties everything together with a tangy, fruity finish. Serve it on a big platter with warm garlic crostini fresh out of the oven and let guests dig in. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients:

• Mixed greens (spinach or arugula work well)
• Miscellaneous fresh herbs if you have them. I snagged some basil & mint from the garden and it gave it even more pizzazz.
• Fresh burrata cheese, torn into pieces
• Fresh figs, quartered
• Candied pecans
• Prosciutto, rolled into small rosettes
• Huckleberry balsamic vinegar (I get mine from Olive & Vyne but you can get other fruit-forward balsamics here)

Simple Fig + Parmesan Salad

This bright and simple salad is a refreshing counterpoint to some of the richer fig dishes (and the buratta salad) on the Figchella menu. The mix of crisp greens, juicy figs, salty parmesan and crunchy pecans hits all the right textures, and the lemon dressing ties everything together with a zippy citrus punch. It’s quick to assemble, easy to scale up for a crowd and a great way to show off fresh figs in their purest form – no roasting, glazing or torching required. Serve it as a light starter or alongside heartier mains to keep the balance just right.

Ingredients:

• 5–6 cups mixed greens (like spring mix, spinach or arugula)
• 4–6 fresh figs, quartered
• ⅓ cup shaved or grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup pecans (candied if you like a little sweetness)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions:
Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper together to make the dressing. Toss greens lightly with the dressing, then top with figs, parmesan and candied pecans. Serve immediately so the greens stay crisp.

Fig Entrees

Fig-a-Toni, Pasta with Guanciale + Pecorino

The Fig-a-Toni is a savory, salty-sweet pasta dish that always surprises people in the best way. Inspired by classic Roman carbonara-style flavors with a figgy twist, it features crisped guanciale (or pancetta if you can’t find the real thing), jammy figs and a generous snowfall of sharp pecorino. The figs melt slightly into the pasta, creating little bursts of sweetness that balance out the richness of the cheese and pork. It’s an unexpected combo that just works, especially when fig season is in full swing.

Fig, Guanciale + Pecorino Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (rigatoni, tonnarelli, bucatini or spaghetti work well)
• 4 oz guanciale, diced (or substitute pancetta or thick-cut bacon)
• 6–8 ripe figs, quartered
• ½ cup grated pecorino Romano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Salt for pasta water

Optional:

• A splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Fig Smashburgers

The Figchella Smashburger is starts with a juicy, crispy-edged smashburger hot off the griddle, then gets hit with a generous spoonful of fig-strawberry pepper jelly (or straight fig pepper jelly if that’s your vibe). Creamy goat cheese melts right into the burger, balancing the heat and fruitiness, and a swipe of zesty key lime aioli adds brightness. A handful of fresh arugula gives it just the right peppery crunch. It’s the burger of your dreams – I am not kidding – and as far as fig recipes go, it’s worth adding to the top of your list.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for ideal smashing)
• Salt and pepper
• Fig-strawberry pepper jelly or fig pepper jelly
• Goat cheese, softened or crumbled
• Key lime aioli (or mix mayo, key lime juice and zest)
• Fresh arugula
• Pretzel buns, toasted

Optional Add-Ons:

• Pickled red onions
• Crispy bacon
• Extra jelly on the side for dipping

Instructions:
Form beef into loose balls (about 2–3 oz each) and smash onto a hot griddle or cast iron skillet. Season with salt and pepper, cook until crispy on one side, then flip (only once!) and finish cooking. Spread goat cheese on the warm patties, add jelly while still hot, then layer onto buns with key lime aioli and arugula. This is a messy, juicy, delicious burger – extra napkins required.

I served this with a side of “Street Heat Elotes,” a mix of roasted corn and peppers (whatever I had on hand from the garden.) This is the key lime aioli recipe I use.

Fig Desserts

Amaretto Fig Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

This Amaretto fig bread pudding is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels decadent but comes together with minimal fuss. It’s rich and custardy, with chunks of fresh figs tucked into every bite and a warm almond flavor from the Amaretto that makes it feel just a little more special. I served it warm at the end of the inaugural Figchella, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, but it’s just was just as good the next morning with coffee. You can use whatever bread you have on hand – brioche or challah work best for a soft, buttery finish. I found some chocolate chip brioche at Walmart’s bakery that did the trick just right.

Amaretto Fig Bread Pudding Recipe

Cheesecake with Caramelized Figs

This no-bake cheesecake with caramelized figs is one of my go-to desserts because it’s elegant, easy and can be made entirely the night before – leaving more time for harvesting and chopping the fresh figs needed for the day, torching cheese and sipping Fig Diesels.

The cheesecake itself is light and fluffy, layered over a crushed Biscoff cookie crust that gives it a buttery, spiced crunch that tastes like flying across the country (IYKYK). I serve these in dainty little punchbowl cups for a vintage-meets-luxury vibe. The caramelized figs on top bring just enough richness, but one important tip – go easy on the orange zest. A little brings brightness, but too much can completely overpower the delicate creaminess of the cheesecake.

No-Bake Whipped Cheesecake with Caramelized Figs Recipe

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra cookie crumbles
• Whipped cream
• A tiny sprig of mint for color

Hosting Your Own Fig-Inspired Dinner Party

If you’re feeling inspired by Figchella, you don’t need a big backyard or even a fig tree of your own to host your own version – although it’s certainly cheaper to grow your own than to buy bushels at the store – if you can even get them. A fig-themed dinner party can be as simple as a cheese board with fig jam and a fig and arugula salad, or as elaborate as a five-course tasting menu.

Start with what’s in season where you live and build a menu that highlights fresh figs in different forms. Serve a fig cocktail when guests arrive, then wow them with savory fig appetizers, a main dish with fig glaze or compote and a fig-forward dessert. Add candles, music and a few fig branches for decor and you’ve got a dinner party your guests will be talking about for months.

And of course, if you’re making fig jam – make extra. It makes the best hostess gift and is perfect for keeping a little taste of summer around long after the last fig falls from the tree.

Final Thoughts on Cooking with Figs

Fig season is short but sweet and I look forward to it all year. There’s something so satisfying about using what grows just a few steps from my kitchen and turning it into something memorable for the people I love. From the first warm fig plucked off the tree to the last jam-smeared cracker at Figchella, these fig recipes represent more than just what’s on the plate. They’re a celebration of timing, place and connection.

Whether you’re working with a tree of your own or a few pints from the farmer’s market, I hope these fig recipes inspire you to get creative. Try something new. Make a mess. Host your own version of Figchella with figs or whatever you’ve got in your yard. Just don’t let fig season pass you by without tasting what this little fruit can do.

Stay tuned for Figchella 3, coming June 2026.

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RELATED: 7 Reasons to Stay Onsite at a Universal Hotel

If you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando and wondering where to stay, this guide breaks down every onsite hotel with insider tips, honest insights and everything you need to book the stay that fits your travel style and budget.

Why Stay at a Universal Hotel in 2025?

Staying at an official Universal hotel isn’t just convenient – it transforms your entire trip! Here’s what you get when you book onsite:

• Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Volcano Bay and select Epic Universe attractions. This gets you in up to an hour before general admission – ideal for high-demand rides like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the new Stardust Racers coaster. (Two of the best rides in the world, I’m not even kidding!)
• Free transportation via buses or water taxis to all parks and CityWalk. No rental car required, no parking fees, no traffic stress.
• Room key privileges, like charge-to-room access throughout the resort and merchandise delivery straight to your hotel from the parks. This means you don’t have to carry all your souvenirs around all day. You just swipe your card and send them to your hotel room.
• Resort-wide benefits, including priority restaurant seating, pool hopping among select hotels and themed character dining.
• Express Pass included at select hotels, allowing you to skip the regular lines at most rides in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. This can save you hours per day.

RELATED: 25 of the Best Florida Hotels to Visit

Where to Stay at Universal Orlando Resort: Your Complete Hotel Guide

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel $$$$

This luxurious Italian-themed resort recreates the charm of Portofino, Italy, with cobblestone streets, classic architecture and even opera singers serenading from balconies at sunset. It’s the most upscale option at Universal and a peaceful retreat after a day in the parks.

Why I love it: The spacious rooms, themed kids’ suites, relaxed vibe and easy water taxi ride to the parks make it a splurge-worthy experience. Plus, the hotel feels secluded and romantic, perfect for couples or families looking for quiet luxury.

Included Benefits:

• Express Pass
• Early Park Admission
• Water taxi to parks
• Priority seating at select restaurants

Check prices and availability for your stay at Portofino Bay Hotel.

Hard Rock Hotel $$$$

With music-themed decor and serious rockstar energy, Hard Rock Hotel is as fun as it is functional. The walk to Universal Studios takes just five minutes, and the pool – with underwater speakers – is one of the best in Orlando. There’s a room service guitar menu with 20 different Fender guitars and lessons you can take on the TV, not to mention all the fun music memorabilia all over the place. Whether you’re into Prince or Beyoncé, it’s likely you’ll find a piece of musician history that suits you.

Why I love it: You can hear live music at Velvet Sessions or book a themed kids’ suite. This hotel brings the energy from the parks right into your stay.

Included Benefits:

• Express Pass
• Early Park Admission
• Walking path and water taxi to parks
• Priority dining access

Check prices and availability for your stay at Hard Rock Hotel.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort $$$$

This tropical resort has major South Pacific vibes – think tiki torches, lush landscaping and a lagoon-style pool with a white sand beach. It’s a great choice for families who want the benefits of Express Pass with a lower price point than Portofino.

Why I love it: The balance of value, amenities and location is spot-on. The Royal Club level adds lounge access with continental breakfast, snacks and evening hors d’oeuvres.

Included Benefits:

• Express Pass
• Early Park Admission
• Water taxi and walking path
• Polynesian-inspired dining

Check prices and availability now for your stay at Royal Pacific Resort.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort $$$

Sapphire Falls is full of island charm, with bright Caribbean colors, a huge pool with a water slide and the best rum bar at Universal. While it doesn’t include Express Pass, it’s a solid mid-range option with beautiful surroundings.

Why I love it: Strong Water Tavern is a must-visit, and the relaxed vibe is perfect for winding down after a park day. You can also take the water taxi to CityWalk and the parks, which makes this feel more premium than its price suggests.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission
• Water taxi and shuttle access
• Onsite dining and themed bars

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Sapphire Falls Resort.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel $$$$

The newest luxury addition at Universal, Helios Grand sits right next to Epic Universe and has its own private entrance into the park. On a hot summer day, you can’t even believe how amazing it is to go straight from Celestial Park to the Helios pool for a nap and a snack It’s Mediterranean in design with high-end finishes, a zero-entry pool with underwater sound and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the new park.

PODCAST: Visiting Universal’s Epic Universe: Where Wonder Lives Again

Why I can’t wait to stay again: I toured Helios during the Grand Opening of Epic Universe and was blown away by the views and luxurious atmosphere. Between the private entrance to Epic Universe and sleek finishes, it’s the ultimate park-lover’s hotel.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission to Epic Universe
• Dedicated Epic Universe entrance
• Premium dining and rooftop bar access

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Helios Grand Hotel.

Universal Aventura Hotel $$

Aventura is sleek, modern and minimal with floor-to-ceiling windows and great views of Volcano Bay. It’s a great value with quick bus access to the parks and an amazing rooftop bar, Bar 17 Bistro. And my sister had her gorgeous engagement party at the rooftop bar in 2020 – so it holds a special spot in my heart for that alone.

Why I love it: It feels clean, quiet and tech-savvy. Great for couples, solo travelers or anyone looking for a convenient stay without a high price.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission
• Quick shuttle access to all parks
• Rooftop dining and Volcano Bay views

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Aventura Hotel.

Universal Stella Nova Resort $$

This new Prime Value hotel is a space-themed escape filled with galactic colors, retro-futuristic decor and cosmic cocktails. It’s located near Universal Epic Universe and has convenient walking paths to the new park and bus transportation to the OGs, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.

Why I love it: I stayed here for the Grand Opening of Epic Universe and was impressed with how immersive and fun the theming is. It’s a fantastic value stay, and still feels fresh and exciting.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission to Epic Universe
• Shuttle and walking path access
• Modern rooms and immersive theme

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Stella Nova Resort.

Universal Terra Luna Resort $$

Terra Luna is the calm counterpart to Stella Nova with earth tones, minimalist design and a more tranquil energy. Still within walking distance to Epic Universe, this resort is ideal for families and those wanting a more grounded space to unwind.

Why it’s on my list: I haven’t stayed here yet, but it looks like the perfect recharge zone after a big day of rides and crowds.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission
• Walking and shuttle access to Epic Universe
• Laid-back atmosphere with practical amenities

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Terra Luna Resort.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort $$

Retro fun meets family convenience at Cabana Bay. This 1950s-themed resort has family suites, a lazy river, a bowling alley and two massive pools. Some rooms even have Volcano Bay views and it’s easy access for a day at that park. I’ve stayed at Cabana Bay so many times, and never get tired of the vintage commercials running in the food court, the retro vehicles parked out front or the V05 / Zest amenities that send you back to the 50s.

Why I love it: It’s perfect for multigenerational trips. I’ve stayed here with family, and the kitschy theming plus the lazy river always hits the mark.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission
• Walking path to Volcano Bay
• Family suites and on-site fun

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Endless Summer Resort: Surfside Inn & Suites and Dockside Inn & Suites $

These two Value hotels are across the street from the main Universal complex and offer the most affordable way to stay onsite. The beachy theming, large pools and food courts make them solid picks for budget-conscious families.

Why I haven’t stayed yet – but might soon: These are ideal for larger families or groups looking to save. The two-bedroom suites sleep up to six and include a mini-fridge and microwave.

Included Benefits:

• Early Park Admission
• Shuttle service to all parks
• Suites with kitchenettes

Check pricing and availability now for your stay at Endless Summer Resort.

RELATED: Expert Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando

Closest Hotels to Universal Orlando

If the Universal hotel portfolio is all sold out – and that happens, especially at the busiest times of year – you might want to stay close by to save on transportation. Some off-site hotels even have shuttles so you can save money on parking, but most importantly, you can save time. You DO NOT want to navigate I-4 every single day if you stay elsewhere in the Orlando metro area. Here are a few hotels that are easy distance from Universal:

Holiday Inn & Suites Across From Universal Orlando by IHG

Directly across from Universal Studios and providing free transfers to area sites, this hotel features spacious rooms furnished with free high-speed internet and many on-site facilities, including a restaurant. The Holiday Inn & Suites Orlando Universal provides many family-friendly amenities, including an outdoor pool and children’s pool, a gift shop and a game room. Guests will also enjoy the on-site fitness center and on-site discount ticket sales to popular area theme parks. Check pricing and availability here.

DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando

Boasting an unrivaled location directly across from the entrance to Universal Orlando Resort, this hotel features first-class amenities, numerous free services and is close to all the area’s main attractions. Walt Disney World is 9.8 mi from the property. The Doubletree Hotel at the entrance to Universal Orlando features all the amenities needed for an unforgettable stay. Watch a film on in-room flat-screen TVs, enjoy a refreshing swim in the junior Olympic-size pool or plan the day’s adventures with help from the hotel’s activity desk. Check pricing and availability.

Hyatt Place across from Universal Orlando Resort

Our newly renovated hotel is only a 3-minute drive from Universal Orlando Resort, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi and food available 24 hours a day. An outdoor swimming pool is also available. Complimentary shuttle service to Universal Orlando Resort is available at select times as well. Check pricing and availability.

Why Choosing a Universal Hotel is The Way to Go

No matter your travel style or budget, Universal Orlando has an onsite hotel that will level up your trip. Staying onsite is more than just convenient – it’s a smarter way to do the parks. From early park access to skipping the lines to easy transportation, the benefits make a big difference, and ultimately you save time and money.

Personally, I’ve loved every stay – from the high-end escape of Portofino Bay to the affordable fun of Cabana Bay and now the futuristic vibes at Stella Nova. And I can’t wait to book my first full night at Helios Grand so I can dip into Epic Universe whenever I want! Wherever you land, staying onsite keeps you close to the action, and that’s where the magic happens.

RELATED: 48 Hours In Orlando

Have questions or want more personalized recommendations? Drop a comment below or reach out – I’d love to help you pchoosethela n your perfect Universal Orlando hotel getaway!