AFAR Search

The willows and aspen of California's June Lake Loop provide just one the state's many autumnal hues.

Think New England Is the Only Place for Fall Foliage? Try California

We’re not knocking the Northeast’s fall colors—but the third-largest state has some prime places for vibrant leaves as well.

October 2, 2023 12:13 PM

·

Pat Tompkins

An outcropping of dense pine trees at Emerald Point at sunset in South Lake Tahoe, California

Outdoor Adventure

This California Destination is Perfect for All Types of Travelers

Enjoy fine dining, outdoor adventure, and spa days against one of the world’s most stunning backdrops on Lake Tahoe’s South Shore (which technically includes Nevada, too).

Sponsored by Visit Lake Tahoe

AFAR Approved

The Foldable Kayak That You Really Can Take Anywhere Is Now on Sale

Don’t buy an Oru Kayak if you’re the shy, retiring type, because you’re going to get in a lot of conversations.

March 23, 2023 03:08 AM

·

Tim Chester

Grazing Moose on grass by Cook Inlet in Anchorage Alaska with city skyline across the water and mountains in the background

Cities We Love

9 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska

With salmon fishing (and eating), craft breweries, hiking trails, and a thriving local art scene, there’s a lot to love about Anchorage.

May 8, 2024 07:00 PM

·

Bailey Berg

The view of San Pedro Volcano across Lake Atitlan

Outdoor Adventure

8 Beautiful Lakes Around the World to Plan a Trip to Right Now

Waterside beauty goes beyond the beach.

May 27, 2024 09:32 AM

·

Chloe Arrojado

the Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park featuring a rocky alcove and turquoise blue water

Cruise

These Lakes Are So Big and Beautiful That You Can Take Multiday Cruises Along Them

Some lakes are as big as a small sea, so perhaps it’s little surprise that on these stunning bodies of water, you can take an overnight cruise to better explore their impressive shores.

May 23, 2024 07:10 PM

·

Fran Golden

The pool at Grand Hotel Fasano sits by the shores of Lake Garda in Italy.

Stay Here Next

This Idyllic Italian Lake Is an Overlooked Alternative to Lake Como—Here’s Where to Stay

The neoclassical-style Grand Hotel Fasano on Italy’s Lake Garda offers a more laid-back alternative to flashy Lake Como.

May 14, 2025 12:21 PM

·

Alia Akkam

Aerial Photos of the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady, Summer 2018, Photographer: Barry Butler

4 Days In

A Local’s Guide to the Perfect Long Weekend in Chicago

Sample gourmet Ukrainian food, watch a comedy show with puppets, and catch an all-ages jazz show.

May 19, 2025 08:50 PM

·

Elaine Glusac

The balcony view from Nido, the rooftop restaurant at the Loren at Lady Bird Lake.

Hotels

This Lakefront Boutique Hotel Gives Guests Easy Access to Austin Highlights

Here’s why we love the Loren at Lady Bird Lake. Plus: Five exciting destinations within easy walking distance.

November 25, 2022 08:30 AM

·

Mae Hamilton

Rocky coastline of Lake Superior in Big Bay State Park in La Pointe on Madeline Island in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin USA

Outdoor Adventure

Scout For Shipwrecks and Glimpse the Northern Lights on This Underrated Coastline in the Midwest

Wisconsin’s coast—with its cliff jumping, sea kayaking, and winter surfing—offers plenty of fun experiences.

May 21, 2025 02:40 PM

·

Jacqueline Kehoe

Makkum, The Netherlands-February 2021; View over the frozen water of the IJsselmeer close to Makkum with four recreational ice boats on the ice and endless ice landscape in the back

Winter Sports

What to Do With All This Cold? Race Sailboats Across Frozen Lakes, From New York to Finland

Watch ice boats race across the ice—or try it yourself.

January 27, 2026 12:50 PM

·

Francesca Krempa

Off The Tourist Trail

A Local’s Guide to Lake Tahoe Without the Crowds, Including Remote Hot Springs and Moonlit Adventures

A resident shares a decade’s worth of tips to see California’s renowned nature with fewer people in the way.

November 7, 2025 02:23 PM

·

Suzie Dundas

A pastel, cloudy sky reflected in the water at Virginia Beach.

Outdoor Adventure

Why Virginia Beach Shines in the Off-Season

Cooler weather and fewer visitors make this coastal Virginia destination ideal for off-season outdoor adventures, like kayaking and hiking in state parks.

Search results for