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Niagara Falls

For a unique view, I suggest heading to the observation tower in the evening. Catching the sunset over the falls was breathtaking! Just don't forget your camera. It’s a memory you’ll want to keep!

check out the cave of the winds experience! it's super fun and a bit more exciting than i expected. just be prepared to get wet, but hey, it's worth it for the views and the thrill!

If you can, visit on a weekday instead of a weekend. I found the crowds to be way more manageable, and you get better photo op without a ton of people in the background. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later!

Don’t forget to try Tim Hortons while you’re there! I found a location nearby and it was a great way to grab a quick coffee without breaking the bank. Perfect pick-me-up while exploring!
Old Faithful

Dress in layers! The weather can change quickly, and it was freezing in the morning but warm by noon. A light jacket saved the day for me!

If you want to save time on food, bring snacks. The cafeteria can get super crowded, and eating outside is a lot more pleasant. Plus, take in those views!

Don’t forget your camera! The eruptions are amazing, and the surrounding area is stunning. I regretted missing a few pics while I was too busy just watching!

Get there about 30 minutes before an eruption. You can catch the little geysers like Castle Geyser while you wait. It's a nice way to avoid the crowd right when Old Faithful blows!
Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary

Wear comfortable shoes! The sanctuary has a lot of walking paths, and you'll want to explore all the areas without your feet screaming at you by the end of the day.

Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours there. I thought I could blitz through in an hour, but there’s so much to see and learn – you’ll want to take your time!

Bring a camera but be mindful of the rules about flash photography. I missed some great moments because I forgot to turn mine off, so double-check before snapping away!

I suggest packing snacks and water. The food options were limited and a bit pricey, so having a little picnic made my day much better!
Glacier National Park

Pack your own food and drinks for the day. Eating in the park can get pricey, and trust me, those sandwiches taste better with a stunning view!

Consider getting a National Park Pass. If you’re hitting multiple parks, it’ll save you bucks. I regretted not doing it sooner during my trip!

Check out lesser-known trails like the Hidden Lake. It’s less busy than Grinnell Glacier but just as breathtaking. Avoid the masses! You breath better in peace!

Pack layers! Weather changes fast – sun, rain, even snow! I didn’t believe it at first, but people were right about that. Be ready for anything!
Central Park

When I went, I made the mistake of not wearing comfy shoes. I think you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so think about sneakers or something like that. Your feet will thank you later!

For a quick rest, find a bench near the Great Lawn. It's a super chill spot where you can relax and people-watch. I didn’t do this on my first visit, and ended up exhausted!

Check out the food carts instead of dining in pricey restaurants nearby. I got a delicious pretzel and a soda for under $10, whereas the sit-down places were double that!
Bryant Park

My advice is to explore the nearby areas like the New York Public Library and Times Square after your park visit. The walk is short and you'll see so much more!

If you're on a budget, grab some fresh food from the food kiosks rather than dining out. The variety is great, and you can enjoy a picnic vibe in the park.

I recommend visiting on a weekday around 10 AM. It’s less crowded then, and you can snag a good spot on the lawn or grab a sun lounger.
Millennium Park

I really recommend wandering around the Lurie Garden while you’re there. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy areas, and the flowers are gorgeous. Just be ready for some stairs!
Don't skip the Crown Fountain – it’s such a unique art installation! I thought it was just a fountain, but it's a whole interactive experience. Plus, kids love it!

Bring some snacks and drinks. The park is beautiful but food prices nearby can be a bit steep. I packed a little picnic and it made for a perfect afternoon.

I suggest visiting on a weekday if you can swing it. The crowds on weekends can get pretty insane, especially near the Bean. I went on a Tuesday and it was so much less hectic.
Balboa Park

Check out the free museums on Tuesdays and the other days when there are discount offers. It saved me a ton, plus I got to see more without a big spend!

Wear comfy shoes. I thought I'd be fine in flip flops, but I ended up with sore feet. There’s a lot to explore, so you’ll want to keep moving.

Try to visit on a weekday if you can. It’s way less crowded, and you’ll have a better time wandering around without bumping into too many folks.

Don't miss the Botanical Building, it's beautiful and totally free! Perfect for some great pics and a little peaceful escape from the busyness
Grand Canyon National Park

I think you should consider getting the National Parks Pass if you're planning on visiting other parks... It saves a lot, plus it’s valid for a year!

My tip for avoiding the crowds is to explore the less popular viewpoints like Desert View Watchtower. You get amazing views and often have the place to yourself!

I recommend visiting the Mather Point viewpoint around sunrise. It's less crowded and the colors are just stunning, plus you'll beat the heat!

My advice is to download a trail map off the park website before you go. The signs are helpful, but they don't always show you all the trails, and a map can help you discover hidden gems.
Niagara Falls State Park

My advice is to take a stroll along the trails near the falls, it's breathtaking! I found some unique viewpoints that I didn’t see in the main areas and it really felt like a hidden gem!

If you're on a budget, look for the free parking options outside the main entrance. I saved some cash with this tip, plus it’s a short walk to the Falls!

Don’t skip the Cave of the Winds tour! Just be prepared to get wet, but it’s totally worth it! I wish I had worn my old shoes instead of my new ones!