22 places to enjoy fall in California [+ map]

If you love the activities that make Vail, Colorado, a famous From golf and garden exploring to fly fishing and white water rafting, our guide offers 25 top activities to enjoy during your trip to Vail this summer. 1. Wander the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Topping our list is one of the most popular things to do in Vail. As the world’s highest-altitude botanical garden at 8,200 feet, the 2. Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame The 3. Sample 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits 4. Try new sports at Vail Ski Resort 5. Sip some brews at Vail Brewing Company 6. Explore Lionshead Village Scenic 7. Enjoy outdoor concerts at The Amp Fittingly located next door to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the 8. Taste summer’s bounty at the Vail Farmers Market If you are looking for a fun and delicious way to hang out in Vail in the summer, you should check out the 9. Play outside at Piney River Ranch 10. Play a round of golf surrounded by mountains  The award-winning 11. Have an adventure at Epic Discovery A true mountain playground for daredevils of all ages, 12. Get your blood pumping at Vail Nordic Center 13. Ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola The 14. Take a self-guided art walk at Vail Village Vail Village is a charming Bavarian-style ski village, making it a lovely place to spend an afternoon. Discover the incredible 55 works of public art that are spread throughout town. To see them all, you’ll want to stop by the welcome center to pick up a free map. Guided tours are also available during the summer.  15. Catch a sunrise or sunset at Bighorn Park 16. Make friends with a llama Yes, really. 17. Explore the Vail Nature Center  The 18. Go whitewater rafting Cool off on a hot summer day with an exhilarating ride down the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers. Local outfitters offer a range of rafting options, from kid-friendly introductory trips to technical rafting experiences with rapids up to Class IV. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Opt for a low-key float trip through Browns Canyon, where your guide will do all the paddling.  19. Sample wines from around the world  20. Enjoy tubing in Vail Relish in the thrill of tubing in Vail while being surrounded by the greenery and beauty of the Colorado mountains. 21. Fly through the sky on a zip line Soar through the air and enjoy the scenic views of Colorado. If you are looking for a zip line adventure in Vail, you have plenty of options to choose from in the summer. You can zip line over the Colorado River, through the alpine forests or across the Rocky Mountains. Tours vary in length, difficulty and price, but they all guarantee a memorable and exciting experience. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find a zip line tour that suits your level of adventure and budget. 22. Bike Vail’s trails Vail offers many trails and paths for cyclists of all levels and abilities. You can enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you pedal along the paved and dirt roads or cruise through downtown Vail. Whether you want to challenge yourself with steep climbs and descents, or relax and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace, there is a route for you in Vail. 23. See Vail on horseback Horseback riding in Vail is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of summer in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you are a beginner or an expert rider, you can find a trail that suits your skill level and preferences. You can choose from half-day, full-day or overnight trips, and explore the alpine meadows, aspen forests and wildflower fields with your friendly steed. 24. Spend the day fly fishing Vail is a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of rivers and streams to explore. Some of the best spots for fly fishing in Vail are Eagle River, Gore Creek and the Colorado River. You will need a fishing license, which you can buy online or at local shops. Enjoy the scenic views and the fresh mountain air that make Vail a perfect place for fly fishing.  25. See it all with a hot air balloon ride If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling things to do in Vail in summer, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. A hot air balloon ride is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains from a bird's-eye view. You can soar over the lush green valleys and sparkling rivers, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the clear blue sky. Vail, Colorado, is a nature lover's dream. Although the town is famous for its winter sports scene, there are plenty of things to do in Vail in summer as well. If you could see yourself in this year-round paradise, skip the vacation rentals and consider investing in a

Tucked away high in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Telluride is an adventurer’s playground for its nearly 2,600 year-round residents and a multitude of visitors.  Whether you’re in for adrenaline-pumping adventure sports, to be 1. Hit the slopes If you’re lucky enough to be in Telluride in the winter, you’ll find yourself in a powder paradise. And compared to some of Colorado’s other famous ski resorts, you’re less likely to find long lift lines and crowded amenities in this low-key town. Looking to take a day off your skis but don’t want to miss out on those awesome mountain views? Plenty more Telluride attractions await. 2. Go on a hike Telluride isn’t just a winter destination. In fact, Telluride and its surrounding landscapes are just as impressive in the warm-weather months. Endless hiking options abound, beginning with the must-see 3. Ride the gondola The only free transportation of its kind in the United States, the 4. Visit Mountain Village Mountain Village is the end stop for the gondola, making it a convenient destination to add to your itinerary. It started as a European-style ski resort and has evolved into a bustling town with shops and restaurants well worth the visit. 5. Go fly fishing  Telluride has some of the country’s finest alpine streams for trout fishing. Buy a fishing license at a local sporting goods shop and you're good to hit the waterways for a day of solitude. Local guides are available for hire, helping novices learn the ropes and experienced anglers find the best spots. If you plan to visit during the winter, bring your fishing pole — fishing maintains its status as one of the top things to do in Telluride year-round because the environmental conditions for trout are even better at that time of year. 6. Take a walking tour of downtown When you’re at a loss for what to do in Telluride, a walking tour is well worth the time. With an Old West vibe that feels like something out of a movie, downtown Telluride started as a silver mining camp and is nothing if not charmingly historic. It’s just eight blocks wide and 12 blocks long, and the entire downtown seems to be miraculously pinned inside a narrow canyon. An afternoon is well spent wandering the quaint shops and restaurants of downtown Telluride. 7. Raft down the San Miguel River The rivers around Telluride are good for more than just trout fishing. Hop on a raft for a trip down the San Miguel River. Trips range from 9 ½-mile half-day trips to multi-day adventures, with family-friendly trips on the easier end up to intermediate class 3-rated adventures. Other popular rafting expeditions include the Dolores River and Colorado River. 8. Experience tandem paragliding Get a thrilling view of Telluride and the Rocky Mountains from the harness of a paraglider. Passengers must have the ability to run on takeoff and landing, making this activity accessible to people 5 and older. Some instructors even offer the option to pilot the glider yourself after teaching you the basic controls. 9. Visit the arts district Established in 1971, the 10. Rock climb at Via Ferrata Skiing isn’t the only thing Telluride’s mountains are good for. Check out climbing at 11. Drive Black Bear Pass This 8½-mile scenic drive will take you to elevations of nearly 13,000 feet. This famous road is recommended for experienced drivers in 4x4 vehicles with high clearance. Those willing to brave the hazards will get a view of the highest waterfall in Colorado at Bridal Veil Falls and have the thrill of steep switchbacks on their descent. Black Bear Pass is also accessible to hikers and bikers. 12. Ride the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 13. Bike the Galloping Goose Trail The 14. Go on an off-road tour Thanks to Telluride’s roots as a mining town, the area has off-road trails to remote ghost towns and alpine lakes. You can choose to rent a Jeep for a self-guided trip, or contract a guide to experience the more difficult terrain. Favorite destinations include the Smuggler-Union Mine and the Tomboy ghost town. 15. Explore the historical museum The 16. Camp in the San Juan Mountains If a hike is not enough to satisfy your outdoor appetite, camping surely will. There are multiple campgrounds in the region that offer a range of amenities. The Priest Lake Campground is free to use, allowing visitors to stay for up to seven days. The Town Park Campground has 28 vehicle sites for visitors to glamp in luxury and even hosts festivals throughout the summer for added entertainment. 17. Snowshoe Hope Lake Trail Add an extra challenge to your hike by strapping snowshoes to your feet and trekking through the fresh Telluride snow. 18. Tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine While visiting Telluride, head over to nearby Silverton to tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine from late spring through mid autumn. The guided tour goes ⅓ mile into Galena Mountain, giving visitors a sense of what it was like for miners over 100 years ago. Real mining equipment is still stored in the tunnels, with demonstrations of how they operated. Visitors can pan for precious metals for free with the price of their ticket and are allowed to keep what they find. 19. Go on a guided horseback ride Riding a horse through the mountains and meadows of the Rockies is one of the best things to do in Telluride and makes unforgettable memories. Experienced guides lead groups along winding trails to gain a unique view of the local wildlife and stunning scenery. Family-friendly tours are available so no one gets left out, and more advanced options ensure experienced riders aren’t bored. 20. Ice skate at the Madeline Hotel This 21. Take a dip in the hot springs When it’s time to take a break from the more physically demanding activities in Telluride, soak in one of the nearby hot springs. While this can be done at any time of year, it’s an especially memorable experience in the winter, when a chance snowfall can turn a relaxing dip into something magical. Certain locations also offer spa services like massages, facials and body treatments. 22. Visit Canyons of the Ancients Formerly called the Anasazi Heritage Center, 23. Enjoy spa time at The Peaks Resort 24. Grab a drink at Telluride Distilling Company This small distillery crafts a range of spirits, winning awards for its schnapps and vodka. The tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your cocktail, with a pool table and darts for added entertainment. Patrons can also treat themselves to a dish from 25. Play golf at Telluride Ski and Golf Club This 18-hole golf course is among the highest in the world, at an elevation of 9,500 feet. Even if you don’t have time to play a full round, visiting the practice area can be satisfying, thanks to its impressive views of the area. Don’t be surprised to find your drives feel like they go farther than normal — at this elevation, the air has less resistance on the ball. For a small town, Telluride has plenty of things to do. If you find yourself returning year after year for the activities you didn’t get to last time, it just might be time to make it your

One part world-class ski destination, one part charming Colorado mountain town, Aspen is truly a must-visit location. This community of 7,200 year-round residents has an outsized selection of recreational, cultural and historical attractions. If your Check out these 15 great ways to spend a fall day in and around Aspen ​​— all of which give you beautiful views of the changing aspen leaves. 1. Explore the Lost Forest's autumnal glow There’s no better place to immerse yourself in the golden beauty of Aspen than the 2. Discover Aspen's Saturday market magic  Immerse yourself in Aspen's culture at the Explore the Aspen Mall, where local artisans display their creations, from stunning jewelry to one-of-a-kind home decor. As you stroll through the market, enjoy live music performances and soak up the lively atmosphere. It's the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning and get a true taste of Aspen life. 3. Experience Maroon Lake's fall fantasy Maroon Lake is a must-visit if you've chosen Aspen as your fall destination. Surrounded by the iconic Maroon Bells, this stunning alpine lake transforms into a photographer's dream in autumn, perfect for when you’re visiting Aspen in October. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat tour across the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the warm autumn hues of the aspen leaves. If you're up for a challenge, hike to Crater Lake for breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. And don't forget to capture the perfect shot of the Maroon Bells reflected in the still waters of Maroon Lake — it's an image you'll cherish forever. 4. Uncover Ashcroft's autumnal charm Step back in time with a visit to the charming ghost town of Pack a picnic and find a secluded spot along the 5. Cruise Castle Creek Road for fall colors  Take a scenic drive along Castle Creek Road in Aspen's own backyard. This picturesque route winds through stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Red Mountain and Smuggler Mountain. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as you’ll likely spot deer and elk.  As you cruise along, you'll be captivated by Aspen's golden groves set against the majestic backdrop of the Elk Mountains. It's the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the beauty of the Colorado autumn. 6. Conquer Snowmass Mountain in autumn As you ascend, the mountain will reward you with panoramic views of Aspen and the surrounding peaks, painted in a beautiful palette of autumn colors. For a bird's-eye perspective, take a gondola ride to the summit of Snowmass, where you can soak in the expansive vistas and crisp mountain air. 7. Hike Hunter Creek Trail for fall freshness Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature on the Enjoy the fall foliage, and listen for the soothing sounds of the rushing water. The crisp mountain air and the beauty of the surrounding forest make this hike a perfect way to recharge and connect with nature. You might even spot colorful birds or curious squirrels  enjoying their natural habitat.  8. Immerse yourself in downtown Aspen Downtown Aspen is a shopper's paradise, with high-end boutiques lining Galena Street and Cooper Avenue. When hunger strikes, you won’t be disappointed by Aspen’s culinary scene. Savor exquisite dishes at award-winning restaurants like As the sun begins to set, Aspen's nightlife comes alive. Experience the town's energy at popular venues like 9. Enjoy the Aspen Filmfest The Get up close and personal with filmmakers and celebrities at exclusive industry events. And for an unforgettable experience, enjoy outdoor screenings on 10. Admire Aspen Art Museum's fall collection Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Expand your artistic horizons by attending engaging workshops and lectures led by renowned artists and curators. And don't miss the opportunity to appreciate the museum's stunning architecture, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding mountain landscape. 11. Celebrate Aspen's Oktoberfest If you’re visiting Aspen during the fall, join the festivities at Oktoberfest for an authentic taste of Bavarian culture. Wagner Park transforms into a lively beer garden, offering a delectable array of traditional German food and refreshing brews.  Get your groove on with live music and dancing at the Aspen Mall, where you can show off your best polka moves. Join in the fun with various contests and games, from stein-holding competitions to costume contests. Oktoberfest truly captures the spirit of Aspen in autumn.  12. Trek Sunnyside Trail for stunning fall views Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature on the 13. Journey through Independence Pass Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you traverse the iconic For the more adventurous, hike to stunning alpine lakes like Turquoise Lake and soak in the serenity of the mountain. Independence Pass is a must-visit for any nature lover exploring Aspen. 14. Relish Hunter Creek's peace Discover tranquility along the crystal-clear waters of 15. Play golf amidst Aspen's fall foliage Aspen offers world-class golfing experiences that are even more spectacular in the fall. Tee off at renowned courses like Aspen in the fall weekend itinerary To help you make the most of your time in Aspen, we've curated a sample weekend itinerary showcasing the best of what the area has to offer in the fall. Whether you’re after a Day 1: Saturday Day 2: Sunday Make Aspen a second home location with Pacaso No matter the season, there’s so much to explore in Aspen that you’ll need more than a weekend. Give yourself the time you need by

Every winter, harsh temperatures prompt many retirees to head south to enjoy warmer weather. These “snowbirds” spend winter soaking up the sun and enjoying the warmth before returning to their primary residence in the spring. The snowbird season typically ranges from October through April, and sends thousands upon thousands of people flocking to warmer, affordable snowbird states like Texas, Arizona and Florida.  We’ve crunched the numbers to determine the top 50 snowbird destinations in 2023. To determine the best snowbird locations, we analyzed weather conditions, cost of living, safety and healthcare access in the area. And spoiler: Whether you plan to visit for a few weeks or plant your roots with a Here’s what makes each of the top 10 snowbird destinations worth the journey, plus 40 more warm winter spots. 1. Missouri City, Texas Just a half-hour from downtown Houston, Missouri City is at the top of our list of the best snowbird destinations. Whether you’re an avid fisherman or you never miss a morning walk, the Show Me City has many parks and lakes to enjoy during the comfortable 73-degree winters. While snowbirding in Missouri City, you can easily take advantage of everything downtown Houston has to offer, including its ethnically diverse dining scene, which is ranked as one of the Whether you’re feasting on some of the country’s best barbecue at Missouri City is also home to Plus, Missouri City's crime rate is well below the national average, making it one of the best places to spend winter months. 2. Pearland, Texas Pearland, Texas, is one of the Not only that, but Pearland offers stunning sightseeing experiences such as the Pearland is also home to some of the best barbecue in Texas, including If you’re a shopper, you’ll feel right at home at the 3. Pasadena, Texas Our third Texas snowbird destination is located southeast of Houston, extending all the way out to Trinity Bay. This Houston suburb offers warm winters and no shortage of things to do, making it one of the best places to winter. For space buffs, Pasadena is just minutes from the iconic NASA Johnson Space Center, the subject of the famous quote, “Houston, we have a problem.” Not only that, but you can visit If you enjoy spending your free time reconnecting with nature, you’ll love Pasadena’s Residents of Pasadena also enjoy quick access to scenic beaches like El Jardin Beach. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, you can make a short trip to Seabrook, which offers 11 miles of waterfront and a vibrant coastal community. 4. Pembroke Pines, Florida Located 22 miles north of Miami, Pembroke Pines sits between the sandy Featured as one of the You can also spend your time strolling through brand-name stores at the luxurious open-air 5. Margate, Florida Also part of the Miami metropolitan area, Margate is located just east of the Everglades. Known for its beautiful golf courses, safe neighborhoods and close proximity to the ocean, Margate is one of the best places for a second home to spend your winters. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at scenic Pompano Beach or you’re feeling lucky enough to visit the If exploring nature is more your thing, you can check out Plus, enjoying everything Margate has to offer won’t break the bank, as its cost of living index is just barely above the national average, making it one of the most affordable winter home locations. 6. Tamarac, Florida Known as the City For Your Life, Tamarac sits south of Margate and is the last city from the Miami metropolitan area in our top 10. With 251 sunny days per year, Tamarac is a beautiful place to spend the winter season. While snowbird living in Tamarac, you’ll have quick access to the picturesque white sand beaches of Pompano Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Not only that, but you can take advantage of all the lush Everglades have to offer, from taking a guided airboat tour at For those relaxing days, you can spend time at the marvelous Nearby, you can also enjoy the 7. Gilbert, Arizona Once known as the Hay Shipping Capital of the World, Gilbert is home to families and snowbirds alike. Located just southeast of Phoenix, Gilbert offers views of the cactus-lined San Tan Mountains. With a vibrant dining scene, you’ll have plenty of restaurants and patios to choose from, whether you want to enjoy a fine meal at If shopping local is your thing, the Gilbert is also a great place for those looking to get outside to enjoy the warm winter weather. From taking a walk at 8. Clearwater, Florida Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Clearwater is known for its gorgeous white sand beaches and Clearwater Beach, a 3-mile-long barrier island dotted with hotels and restaurants. Winning the title of America’s No. 1 Beach When you aren’t relaxing on a beach, you can take in all the sights Clearwater has to offer, from dolphin sightseeing cruises to the If you’re a sports fan, you can catch a game at Better yet, the amazing sights, fun experiences and comfortable snowbird winters in this 9. Mesa, Arizona Surrounded by the spectacular Sonoran Desert, Mesa sits southeast of Scottsdale and is a great place to spend the snowbird season. With access to For sports enthusiasts, Mesa is the spring training home of the Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics, making it one of the most popular snowbird destinations for baseball fans. To add to Mesa’s entertainment value, you’ll be near When you’re not out hitting the links or catching a game, you can spend an afternoon marveling at all there is to see at the If you’re an adventurer at heart, you can kayak the Lower Salt River, where you’ll float by wild horses and breathtaking scenery. No matter your interests, you’ll have plenty to do during the comfortably warm winter months. 10. Chandler, Arizona Also located in metropolitan Phoenix, Chandler sits northwest of the jagged San Tan Mountains. You'll have lots to enjoy while snowbirding in Chandler, from the endless number of golf courses to the vibrant downtown. Whether perusing one of downtown Chandler’s boutique shops or enjoying one of the In addition, you’ll have entertainment options aplenty, from listening to live music at the unpretentious And be sure to pack light, as you can get everything you need for the snowbird season at The 50 best snowbird destinations in the U.S. There are many other worthy locations for a Snowbird checklist Before you can head south to enjoy a warm, relaxing snowbird winter, you’ll want to leave your primary residence in good shape. Here’s a snowbird checklist to help get you and your home ready for your time away. Winterize your home It’s crucial that you winterize your home to help reduce the risk of any damage that could take place while you’re away. This includes making sure to: Forward any important information Next up, you’ll want to make sure any important information is passed along to your new home. This includes making sure to: Tidy up the house After spending your winter in the sun, the last thing you want is to return to a messy home. Be sure to: Secure your home Another concern for snowbirds is leaving your house unattended for months at a time. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help improve the security of your home. Before going south for the winter, be sure to: Now that your home is secure, you’re one step closer to enjoying your snowbird destination of choice. Pack your bags With your house prepared for the winter season, it's time to pack your bags! Aside from clothes and other obvious necessities, here are some important items to keep in mind while packing for your second home: This way, if anything arises while you’re at your snowbird destination, you’ll have everything you need to respond accordingly. Enjoy the sunshine Congratulations! With everything squared away at your primary residence, the only thing left to do is enjoy the sunshine at your snowbird destination. No matter where you end up, you’re sure to find plenty to do during the warm winter months. If snowbirding sounds like the way you’d like to spend your winters, consider trying out one of these gorgeous snowbird destinations. These cities not only provide you with endless outdoor enjoyment and an abundance of things to do, but they also make great places for a Our methodology This study was conducted in November 2022. To determine the best snowbird destinations in the United States, we compared five ranking factors across a sample of cities with the highest population over the age of 60, sourced from the The following ranking factors were used to determine how suitable a city is for snowbirds and assigned out of a weight of 100: Each snowbird destination was given a score based on these factors and assigned an overall ranking. The destinations with the highest scores were deemed the best snowbird destinations in the United States. Our data was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, BestPlaces, NOAA and Medicare.gov. Snowbird destinations FAQ Here are answers to some common questions about snowbird destinations. Where is the cheapest place to be a snowbird? Of our top 50 snowbird destinations, Port Charlotte, Florida, is the cheapest, with a cost of living index of 88.9. This means that living in Port Charlotte is roughly 11% cheaper than the national average. How do snowbirds afford two homes? Snowbirds can afford a second home in a variety of ways. Some snowbirds may rent a second home, whereas others may live in a What state has the most snowbirds? Florida tends to have the most snowbirds, with upwards of What is the average age of a snowbird? Because most snowbirds are retirees, the average age of a snowbird is around What are the benefits of being a snowbird? One of the biggest benefits of being a snowbird is having a second home to escape the cold winter months. That way, you can enjoy your primary residence spring through the fall while having a warm getaway in the wintertime, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors all year round. Are there any disadvantages to being a snowbird? Snowbirding does have a few inconveniences, including forwarding your mail to your second home and asking someone to look after your primary residence while you’re away. Other hassles may include switching over prescriptions to a new pharmacy and finding doctors you can go to during the winter months.

Looking for a sunny beach-town escape? Look no further than Newport Beach. This coastal city attracts visitors with its natural beauty, yacht community and casual yet sophisticated vibe. Like other Southern California cities, Newport Beach is great to visit almost any time of the year. Ten distinct neighborhoods comprise the city, each offering a vibrant lifestyle and array of attractions.  As a center of upscale shopping and fine dining, Newport Beach may not be the most obvious destination for a family-friendly California getaway. But this seaside spot has quite a few hidden gems geared for family fun. We’ve picked some of the best Newport Beach activities to entertain your whole crew.  Explore the hottest family-friendly spots Before you plan your family adventure, jot down some of these top destinations within Newport Beach that anyone in your family can enjoy. Picnic at a playground Sometimes all you need for a great family outing is a cooler of food, a shady spot and some fun playground equipment.  Get out on the water The Pacific is calling! Enjoy a day out on the water with one of these family adventures.  Burn off some energy If you’re looking for something that will get everyone totally tuckered out by the end of the day, try some of these energetic Newport Beach activities.  Get back to nature Expand your family’s horizons by exploring botany and biology together at these beautiful and enriching Newport Beach destinations.  Hit the beach Whether you want to ride the waves or bask in the sun, a list of Newport Beach activities for the whole family wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the best local beaches.  Broaden your horizons If your crew needs a little more culture in their lives, here are a few opportunities for cultural and educational enlightenment.  Eat, shop and be merry Not all Newport Beach shops and eateries are ideal for families, but these are well suited for kids and teens.  Need more time to see it all? With so many fun family activities to choose from, consider a second home in Newport Beach. Make memories in the sunshine when you co-own a beautiful second home in greater

Charleston has an incredibly long history. Just how long? The town was founded in the late 1600s as the English settlement known as Charles Towne. Today, with some 150,000 residents, it is the biggest city in South Carolina. For history lovers, Charleston has all the makings of a storied destination: wartime battles, ghost stories, pirate captures, stunning architecture and plenty of local folklore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or are returning to learn more, here are the seven sites you won’t want to miss. 1. Charles Towne Landing  2. The Angel Oak  Believed to be over 400 years old, the 3. The Old Exchange Building This National Historic Landmark is a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn more about South Carolina history. The 4. The Old City Jail  The imposing, castle-like and slightly foreboding building in downtown is the 5. Fort Sumter  Did you know that the American Civil War started right in Charleston? The Confederacy fired on the U.S. garrison of 6. Middleton Place National Historic Landmark Go back in time at 7. Old Slave Mart Museum Charleston played a major role in the tragic history of American slavery. At one time, 35-40% of the Africans brought to North America as slaves were processed through Charleston. Considered the last surviving slave auction gallery in the state, the Immerse yourself in Charleston history With its deep history to explore, one trip to Charleston is never enough. Explore

With its storied history, diverse mix of cultures and distinctively Southern feel, it’s no wonder South Carolina is a popular vacation destination. And while South Carolina’s cities have a myriad of popular tourist attractions, there are also plenty of unique, off-the-beaten-path ways to spend a day in the Palmetto State. Here are eight of the best.  1. Boneyard Beach Otherworldly Boneyard Beach is located on Bulls Island, just up the coast from Charleston. Because of the way the island is positioned, a seemingly endless array of shells wash ashore here. When you couple that with the skeleton-like remains of a water-stranded forest, you’ll easily see how the beach got its name. Because it’s located in a wildlife refuge, the island is only accessible by boat, and 2. Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden  In the 1980s, to discredit the commonly held belief at the time that Black residents of Bishopville couldn’t keep up their yards, Pearl Fryar taught himself how to garden. He bought a hedge trimmer and, after work and on weekends, created what today is a wonderland of over 150 topiaries. The 3. Poinsett Bridge Located in Greenville County between Greenville and Spartanburg, Poinsett Bridge is the oldest bridge in South Carolina. A stone bridge with a gothic arch, it was built in 1820 and once was the main road between Columbia and Saluda Mountain, allowing travelers to pass over Little Gap Creek. Historians believe it was designed by Robert Mills, architect of the Washington Monument. Today, it’s part of a peaceful, 120-acre nature preserve. It’s a beautiful stop any time of year, but vibrant fall colors make it a truly breathtaking destination every autumn.  4. Haunted Charleston  While millions of visitors flock to South Carolina’s largest city each year to marvel at historic architecture, enjoy area beaches and sample Lowcountry cuisine, many don’t know about the city’s spooky past. Charleston is considered one of the most haunted cities in the country. Multiple tour operators escort ghost-hunting travelers through town, regaling them with chilling stories of pirates, shipwrecks, murders and paranormal activity.  5. The Gullah Heritage Trail Hilton Head Island is part of the Gullah Geechee Corridor that runs from Charleston to Savannah, Georgia. The Gullah are descendants of West African slaves and have a long history of living on South Carolina’s most remote islands. The Gullah are known for preserving more of their cultural and linguistic heritage than any other African American community in the United States, and 6. God’s Acre Healing Springs A fountain of youth right in South Carolina? God’s Acre Healing Springs got its name during the Revolutionary War, when four badly wounded soldiers were taken by Native Americans to their sacred healing springs. So the story goes, the soldiers were healed, and the springs, located in Blackville, became a destination for those seeking healing from the mineral waters. Today, the spring is open to the public 24 hours a day, with water coming out of an unassuming pipe in the ground.   7. Rocky Shoals spider lilies  Between late May and mid-June, an area of the Catawba River in 8. Tunnelvision Mural  Inspired by a dream, South Carolina artist Blue Sky painted an Explore more Give yourself all the time you need to explore South Carolina’s quirks, oddities and hidden treasures. As a Pacaso second home owner in South Carolina, you’ll have the

Charleston is a charming, culture-filled South Carolina destination that seems to get more and more popular every year. Some 7 million visitors are drawn to the subtropical weather, an incredible food scene, nearby beaches and the 17 championship golf courses within swinging distance. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, here are five things you should definitely know about Charleston, nicknamed the Holy City for its history of religious tolerance and numerous places of worship. 1. Being full of firsts  Dating from 1736, the 2. Its many haunted spots  Many believers of the paranormal profess Charleston to be one of the most haunted cities in the United States. Multiple companies offer walking tours of some of Charleston’s spookiest sites, including the 3. Incredible local food Foodies from near and far head to the South for the food scene, and Charleston offers a culinary experience all its own. With a combination of European, African and Native American influences, the cuisine in Charleston has a long history — and plenty of flavor. You can find iconic local dishes like shrimp and grits and cornbread all over town. Fried green tomatoes make a popular appetizer, and boiled peanuts are so loved, they’re called the “caviar of the South.” You’ll find she-crab soup at many local restaurants — a rich, bisque-like crab soup that’s called “she-crab” because it contains orange crab roe, found only in female crab. For a hearty dinner, try frog-free Frogmore stew — named for the South Carolina town where it originated. This one-pot meal has shrimp, corn on the cob, new potatoes, and smoked sausage. Wash it all down with a glass of Planter’s punch, a cocktail invented at the historic Planters Inn in downtown Charleston.    4. Rich history History buffs can’t get enough of Charleston’s historic buildings, monuments, museums and walking tours. Charleston celebrated its 350th anniversary in 2020, and the city’s most storied historical sites span the centuries. Start at the famous 5. Proximity to beautiful beaches  Just 15 miles from downtown Charleston are some of the East Coast’s most gorgeous beaches and five distinct beach towns to explore. What will you love most about Charleston? There’s so much to discover in Charleston and so many ways to spend your time. Whether you love history, art and culture, outdoor activities, food or a little bit of everything, you need ample time to explore. Become a Charleston local when you buy a