Matador Network's Blog, page 177

The US’s First Glass-Dome Resort Is Opening Near Bryce Canyon National Park

Outdoorsy travelers who want to stare at the skies at night have a few options around the US, but a soon-to-open resort in Utah is taking the idea of stargazing hotels to the next level.

Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon is set to open August 1 in Cannonville, Utah, roughly 15 minutes from the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park and equally close to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The resort will be the first glass-dome resort in the United States, with 62 high-end private domes. Each dome has a private bathroom and floor-to-ceiling windows, enabling guests to stargaze while lying in bed. Other amenities for guests will include on-property stargazing tours, outdoor yoga classes, and a projection movie dome. The resort will also be home to Sky Nova Café Bar & Grill, poised to be one of the largest glass-dome restaurants in the United States.

Photo: Clear Sky Bryce Canyon

While the resort is designed to be a basecamp for visitors to nearby Bryce Canyon National Park, resort developers are also hoping to attract guests wanting to take advantage of the park’s status as an International Dark Sky Park. The designation was awarded in 2019, and current estimates are that it’s possible to see 2.2 million light years away to the Andromeda Galaxy — roughly 527,000,000,000,000,000 miles from earth. Many of the park’s guided programs focus on stargazing, included ranger-led night hikes and guided telescope sessions.

Bryce Canyon National Park is an International Dark Sky Park. Photo: Colin D. Young/Shutterstock

Travelers at Clear Sky Bryce Canyon will be able to choose from standard or deluxe domes, as well as suites like a disco dome or multi-room suite to sleep eight. The resort is currently open for reservations, with rates starting around $525 per night. As of April 2024, rooms are 30 percent off as part of a grand opening special for guests who stay three or more nights.

Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon will be the second Clear Sky Resort in the US, following the opening of Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon, open seasonally from the end of April to mid-November. The Grand Canyon resort’s domes aren’t glass, but they do have floor-to-ceiling windows and excellent stargazing, given that the Grand Canyon is also a designated dark sky park.

Other dome resorts in the US

 

 

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Dome resorts are just starting to become more popular around the US, but there are a few available for guests who don’t have plans to be in Utah anytime soon.

Near Texas’ Big Bend National Park is the Summit at Big Bend, a domed resort in the desert. Options include glamping domes with clear walls or stargazing domes with clear roofs, and rates start at $199 per night. In Alaska, visitors to Fairbanks can take advantage of the city’s nine-month window for watching the northern lights by staying in a clear dome at Borealis Basecamp. El Mystico Ranch offers bubble domes in the high desert of New Mexico, and Airbnb offers a host of domed properties, plus a variety of glass-roofed properties in areas with great stargazing potential.

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The Next 9 Full Solar Eclipses That’ll Cross the United States

Whether you have made plans to see the total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, or can’t make it, know that there will always be more to come. While there were only seven years between the last two solar eclipses visible in the US (August 2017 and April 2024), you’ll have to wait nine years to see the amazing spectacle of the Moon obscuring the Sun again in the country.

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible in the US will take place in Alaska in 2033, more specifically in the Far North and the Southwest regions of the state. However, getting to Alaska to see a total solar eclipse will likely not be easy, so you may want to wait until 2044 when a total solar eclipse will be visible in Montana and North Dakota, or even 2045 when another one will cross the entire country and be observable in 11 states.

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If that feels like too long to wait, you can always prepare for the next total lunar eclipse which will take place on March 14, 2025. That night, the Earth will block the Sun’s light and projects its shadow on the full Moon, making for a fantastic show that will be observable in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Another option to catch an earlier total solar eclipse is to travel abroad. There will be one visible from Greenland, Iceland, and Spain in August 2026, and one observable from Morocco, Spain, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia in August 2027.

In the meantime, you can plan to see other spectacular celestial phenomena, such as the northern lights, which are regularly visible in Alaska and the continental US, or look for the Milky Way and other bright stars in some of the country’s 60-plus Dark Sky Parks.

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You Can Dig Up Archeological Treasures While Mudlarking in the Heart of London

You don’t need to be a bonifide archeologist with college degrees to find treasures. In the United States, you can easily unearth gemstones and fossils if you know where to go, and in the UK, you can dig up all sorts of historical artifacts right in the capital city if you don’t mind wading through some mud and getting your hands very dirty to find them. The practice is called mudlarking, and it’s existed for several centuries.

Mudlarking is the practice of searching for artifacts and other items in the mud of riverbeds or drained reservoirs. It’s mostly associated with the banks of the Thames in London, also known as the Thames foreshore. Because the area around the Thames river has been inhabited for over 8,000 years, with London (then known as Londinium) becoming a port and trading center in the first century, there are a multitude of historical remains to be found on the riverbanks at low tide.

How long have people been mudlarking in London?

Photo: username/Shutterstock

Mudlarking has existed for several hundreds years. The Museum of London explains that in the 18th and 19th centuries, poor Londoners would scavenge items from the mud to sell in order to survive. Today, mudlarkers comb the banks of the Thames as a hobby, not a necessity, although some have made it their career by writing books about the practice and creating YouTube channels where they show the process and their finds, some of which are spectacular. Lara Maiklem is one of them. Maiklem is a mudlarking specialist who’s written several books on the topic (“Mudlarking” and “A Field Guide to Larking”), made many appearances on TV, and takes part in speaking events. Well known mudlarking YouTubers include Si-finds Thames Mudlark and Nicola White mudlark – Tideline Art.

What can you find while mudlarking on the Thames foreshore?

You can find just about anything in the mud of the Thames banks, from prehistoric skulls to modern trash. Mudlarkers often find old glass bottles and bottle stoppers, broken or intact ceramic items, coins, buttons, Victorian clay pipes, religious statuettes, and more among a huge variety of items that spans centuries, uses, values, and conditions.

Tash Gray, communications manager at the Port London Authority, says over email that all the objects found that could be of archeological interest must be reported to Portable Antiquities Scheme Finds Liaison Officer at the Museum of London. If you’ve been mudlarking and think you have dug up a treasure, you need to contact the coroner for the district in which the object was found within 14 days of the find. “In practice many finders report treasure via the Finds Liaison Officer, which is also acceptable,” Gray explains.

If you find a weapon or anything that is illegal, you must report it to the police immediately. Mudlarkers, including those with YouTube channels, commonly find guns and various bladed weapons which they properly report to the authorities.

Familiarize yourself with the Treasure Act and the Portable Antiquities Scheme’s advice for finders before you start mudlarking. The Treasure Act code of practice contains a directory of coroners.

Can I take my finds from mudlarking on the Thames foreshore home?

It depends, but in general you can’t just take off with your finds. Gray explains that “the export of archaeological objects from the UK to any destination requires a UK license if the object is more than 50 years of age. The type of license required will depend on where the object was found and, in some cases, the value of the object.” By reporting your finds to the Portable Antiquities Scheme Finds Liaison Officer at the Museum of London, you’ll obtain guidance on how to proceed.

What do I need to do to become a mudlarker?

First and foremost, you need a permit, which you can obtain by submitting an application to the Port London Authority. Note that the issuance of new permits to go mudlarking is currently on pause as the Port London Authority evaluates the impact of mudlarking on the foreshore. Gray notes that an announcement on the issuance of permits will be made later in the year.

Once you’ve obtained a permit to go mudlarking, you need to equip yourself with the following gear:

A pair of solid, waterproof boots or wadders with gripA pair of gloves to protect your hands and keep them warm. The Port London Authority recommends elbow length thick rubber glovesA small trowel or shovelBags to collect their finds (those that can hook on a belt are more practical)A waterproof jacketA spray bottle filled with water to lightly clean up whatever you dug up, and a cloth for the same purpose.

Mudlarkers spend a lot of time on their knees looking for objects and some like to wear knee pads, but it’s a matter of preference. The same goes for metal detectors — you don’t necessarily need them to find objects of historical value, but many mudlarkers have them.

Is mudlarking dangerous?

Mudlarking can be hazardous if you don’t pay attention to the tide. Just like the ocean, the Thames experiences two high tides and two low tides per day, every six hours or so. Mudlarking is done at low tide, when items are exposed in the mud, but mudlarkers need to be very aware that the water levels will inevitably go up and they may be trapped in the river’s strong currents and cold water if they don’t pay attention. Also, mudlarkers need to be aware of the daylight hours; being stuck on the foreshore, with no flash light to find the ladder, stairs, or ramp to go back on the road is a very dangerous practice. Wearing the proper gear will prevent falls, cuts, and more.

Is London the only place where you can mudlark?

Mudlarking is not limited to London and the Thames river, it can be done on the banks of any tidal rivers or around drained reservoirs. The Northern Mudlarkers, a mother-and-daughter mudlarking duo with a YouTube channel, look for items of historical significance and value in Scotland, for example.

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The First Comprehensive US Cannabis Travel Guidebook Points Readers to the Country’s Best Weed Experiences

In 2012, Colorado and Washington voters legalized recreational cannabis sales, with the first dispensaries opening in 2014. A lot has changed in the decade since. More than half of people in the United States now live in a state that allows legal recreational cannabis, while 74 percent live in a state that has legalized either medical or recreational use, according to Pew Research Center.

The cannabis scene is drastically different than it was even five years ago as more and more states legalize, with a long list of dispensaries and growers, lounges, tours, and culinary experiences found from coast to coast. Industry experts predict the legal recreational market to reach $50.9 billion in value by 2029, and Forbes puts the value of the cannabis tourism market alone at $17 billion with plenty of room to grow.

Yet cannabis remains federally illegal. This has led to a patchwork of different laws in each state, and plenty of confusion for travelers looking to consume in a place that’s new to them. Added to that, reliable cannabis travel information can be hard to come by as businesses from magazine and book publishers to tour companies remain reluctant to fully dive into cannabis until federal legalization happens.

Cannabis journalist Lauren Yoshiko’s new book, “Green Scenes: A Guide to Legal Cannabis Destinations and Experiences Across the US“, is the first comprehensive cannabis travel guide tohelp curious minds plan a weed-focused trip in the country.

Photo: Nickolaus Hines

“The goal is not just to show readers that beautiful dispensaries exist and look stylish,” Yoshiko says over a video call from Portland. “It’s like, this is a whole new world with what we can do with weed. The experiences available to somebody who enjoys weed are boundless, and I think there’s so much room for innovation in that space.”

The book highlights the various ways that people can take part in local cannabis activities of all kinds. There are culinary events and private cannabis chefs, lounges, and art collaborations, to name a few.

Hardie Grant, Yoshiko’s publisher, is based in Australia with production hubs in the US and the UK. For the American market, Hardie Grant was looking for an author who was a cannabis expert. Just as important was finding someone who knows how to curate a guidebook about the people and businesses who operate ethically.

“I was first approached by Hardie Grant, and they were like, ‘why aren’t there more weed books?’” Yoshiko says. “And actually, America is still really weird about weed, even if we have it legal in so many states. It’s just a freaky thing for a lot of these big publishers, and they were like, ‘well, we’re not freaked out.’”

Yoshiko quickly saw how the book could easily spiral into thousands of pages long even with the slightly more narrow focus of only covering states with legal recreational use. The publisher’s guidance? “Curate, curate, curate,” Yoshiko says. No small task, but one that Yoshiko is uniquely positioned for.

Photo: Lauren Yoshiko

In early 2014, Lauren Yoshiko wrote a cannabis strain review column for the Portland, Oregon, alt weekly Willamette Week under the pen name Mary Romano. It was a time when being associated with cannabis could derail a career. Oregon legalized recreational use in late 2014 with sales to start in 2015, the same year that Yoshiko dropped the pseudonym.

Since then, Yoshiko has worked at cannabis farms, ran dispensaries, and moderated cannabis panels in the United States and Canada. She continued writing about the plant for outlets like Forbes, Broccoli, Thrillist, Conde Nast, and Rolling Stone. She also co-hosted the Broccoli Talk podcast.

Yoshiko’s most recent cannabis writing is largely tied to her previous work with Broccoli, a high-design, elevated take in cannabis media. “Green Scenes” follows a similar design-forward aesthetic that’s as playful and light as it is informative for the cannabis traveler. In the few weeks I’ve had the book sitting on my coffee table, it has inevitably drawn comments about its presentation.

“I wanted it to look really fresh and modern, so that people do a double take,” Yoshiko says. “Something where they can say, ‘This is weed now? This is not the weed I knew from the ‘90s and 2000s.’”

Presently, along with her new book, she operates the Sticky Bits newsletter that covers cannabis updates for consumers and industry people alike, product recommendations, and reported deep dives into both the science of cannabis and the market itself. Throughout her career, she writes in the book, she was “observing the way [cannabis] stigma ebbed and flowed across the continent as those with cannabis-related charges struggled to get justice.” She found that the “deeper the pockets and cleaner the criminal record, the much higher likelihood of accessing and succeeding in the new world of legal weed.”

There’s long been an underlying fear among cannabis devotees that, while helping with public perception and innovation, legalization would make cannabis fall prey to big corporate investment and create a market like big tobacco. It has, in some ways, proven true. But Yoshiko’s book shows that there are still many ethical, people-first cannabis companies providing destination-worthy experiences if you know where to look.

“I love finding real farmers, not just weed growers, but people who are selling homegrown eggplants on the side of the road, but there’s also a weed farm there,” Yoshiko says. “That just feels so much more like how things should be instead of these isolated fenced in places in the middle of nowhere.”

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To keep her book relevant in an ever-changing market, she had a fast turnaround time — especially for the book world. Conversations with her publisher started at the end of 2022, with a deadline of April 2023. The book shipped out in early 2024. Between when editing wrapped up in October 2023 and printing in March, a lot changed. “Unfortunately, there are a couple of spots in the book that no longer exist, and were I to take a closer look at all of the cities again, there’s probably a few spots I’d add.” There’s always the opportunity for a second edition, though.

“We still have so far to go” when it comes to cannabis tourism matching the depth and breadth of experiences that people can get in other types of travel, Yoshiko says. She adds that seeing the relative dearth of places to feature outside of the West Coast and Colorado was “a reminder of how hard it is to build something special in the space, because it’s really expensive and local laws make it hard. A lot businesses didn’t survive the last few years.”

That said, there are businesses and legislation driving the industry in new innovative directions. Vermont, for example, banned plastic packaging. Businesses in states that don’t allow public consumption lounges have created membership clubs where people can freely consume in a social environment rather than trying to find a private space (a particularly thorny issue in cannabis tourism, since public consumption is outlawed in all legal states and accommodations where one can legally light up are limited at best). Other states allow dual licenses so that things like houseplants can be sold alongside cannabis.

Yoshiko’s reporting is all the more relevant in states where cannabis was more recently legalized. New York, for example, where there has been increased attention on the number of illegal cannabis shop storefronts (and the seemingly unavoidable cannabis aroma just about anywhere you go, as I noticed recently on a trip in January) that have popped up since the slow legal rollout started in 2021.

“Green Scenes” is an essential guidebook for anyone looking to work cannabis tourism into their travel plans. Below is just a taste of what people can find.

Meowy Jane in Portland, Maine

The cat motif goes beyond the punny name at this women-led, cat-themed dispensary in historic Old Port. Founders and co-owners Noelle and Joe Albert made Meowy Jane feel like one part cat cafe; one part upscale boutique with clothing, jewelry, and consumption accessories; and one part dispensary selling cannabis products from vetted farms. There are robot cats throughout the shop that move and purr (which you can meet on the dispensary’s Meowy Team page), items like cat-shaped pipes, and cat adoption events with local shelters.

Meowy Jane: 3 Market St, Portland, ME 04101

The WOODS WeHo in West Hollywood, California

Photo: The WOODS WeHo / Lauren Yoshiko

Co-founded by Woody Harrelson and Bill Maher, this West Hollywood consumption lounge is a plant-filled garden with various seating areas, parrots that have been here since it was a private courtyard for the Schoos Design studio, and a koi pond. Private cabanas each have a different theme. This being Hollywood, don’t be surprised if you see some stars among the guests.

The WOODS WeHo: 8271 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046

Sacrilicious in Boston

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Sacrilicious is led by David Yusefzadeh, has worked as a chef at the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta and the Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, helped open Eataly Chicago, and run his own restaurant in Minneapolis, where he’s from. He also is a private chef for hire for the Boston Celtics and events. Yoshiko calls out the science-of-food approach to Yusefzadeh’s Sacrilicious cannabis-infused dinners, like fermented cannabis miso and egg yolks cured in weed-infused salt.

Sacrilicious: Contact for events and experiences

The House of Cannabis in New York City

Photo: THCNYC / Lauren Yoshiko

With the convenient initials of THCNYC, The House of Cannabis is a Soho museum with more than 10 immersive exhibits centered on the art and history of the plant. One room has a light and music show, while others have short films and gallery spaces. There’s even a mini cannabis grow and a smells room to learn more about the terpenes that give off the distinct cannabis aroma.

The House of Cannabis: 427 Broadway, New York, NY 10013

Chef Roilty in Denver

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Chef Jarod Farina, who goes by the moniker Chef Roilty, has taught cooking classes and major restaurants and been on TV shows like Beat Bobby Flay, Chopped 420, and Southern Charm. These days, he’s running cannabis-minded cooking classes and fine-dining dinners in Denver that feature extravagant dishes like an infused pasta served on a pillow filled with cannabis smoke.

Chef Roilty: Contact for events and experiences

Ivy Hall in Chicago

Photo: Ivy Hall / Lauren Yoshiko

Chicago natives Nigel Dandridge and David Berger run this Bucktown neighborhood dispensary. It opened with one of the city’s social equity licenses, and is just as much a palace to relax and learn about cannabis as it is a place to buy it. There’s a sensory bar to learn about aromas and terpenes, seating areas, and attractive design elements both new and historic.

Ivy Hall: 1720 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Mountain Views Tree House Joint in Monroe, Washington

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Glamping goes cannabis friendly at Mountain Views Tree House Joint, a four-acre property an hour north of Seattle. The four sustainably built treehouses are built into the forest and have in-unit heat, bedding, and full bathrooms. Cannabis use is permitted inside and out, and high-end smoking tools like the Stüdenglass gravity bong are available on request. Wandering the woods and immersing in nature is activity enough, though there are also seasonal events and a communal camp fire. Don’t forget to say hi to the four dogs, two fainting goats, horse, swearing African gray parrot, two alpacas, mini pig, cat, and two babydoll sheep.

Mountain Views Tree House Joint: 14308 Reiner Rd, Monroe, WA 98272

TokinTree in Cave Junction, Oregon

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Located near the Oregon-California border, TokinTree House has treetop accommodations located on a working cannabis farm (meaning all guests need to be 21 or older). The main four-person treehouse sits 35 feet off the ground and is reached by stairs and a suspension bridge. Inside, there’s a kitchenette, full bathroom, couch, sleeping loft with a queen bed, and fresh ground coffee and locally grown munchies. The true selling point is it’s position overlooking the farm where you can watch the plants grow and see the activity of harvest season in the fall. The property also has a boat converted into accommodations. It’s all run by Out ‘n’ About Treehouse Treesort, which has a series of other treehouses, ziplines, events, and outdoor activities.

TokinTree: 300 Page Creek Road Cave Junction, OR 97523

NuWu North in Las Vegas

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The biggest name in cannabis in Sin City is the massive Planet 13 that has all of the glitz and over-the-top glamor one would expect from a Las Vegas establishment. Lesser known but arguably even more interesting (and bigger) is NuWu, a 40,000-square-foot dispensary with a consumption-friendly courtyard, Sky High Lounge overlooking the Fremont Street Experience, and the area’s only 24/7 drive-through. It’s operated by the Las Vegas Paiute Tribe, and is hands-down one of the premiere places to shop for and consume cannabis in Las Vegas.

NuWu North: 11527 Nu-Wav Kaiv Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89124

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Experts Say America’s Most Iconic Coastal Road Will Be Increasingly Unusable Due to Climate Change

Growing up in landlocked Colorado, the Pacific Coast Highway was the stuff of legend. There was this road in California, my friends and I would hear, where you can drive along the ocean all the way from San Diego to San Francisco, and even further if you want to. These tales would inevitably focus on the stretch through central California, where the hills surrounding San Luis Obispo form an impressive backdrop to the waves crashing on rocky shores – presumably because it takes mountains to make anything appeal to a Coloradan. The stories hooked me. For years I fantasized about this magical highway. The first big solo road trip I ever took was driving from south to north up the PCH, also called Highway 1, shortly after graduating college.

The drive was everything I imagined it to be – passing through quaint coastal communities north of LA, and otherwise cruising on a thin road atop craggy rock faces, listening to the sounds of the ocean below. I stopped frequently to take photos and to marvel at this incredible feat of engineering. I remember thinking, “How on earth did they build this highway?” Yet one thing that stuck out was how vulnerable the road seemed.

While my trip (fortunately) went off without a hitch, it turned out that I wasn’t imagining that air of vulnerability. I should have better prepared myself in the case that something went awry.

California’s Highway 1 should be approached with caution and treated with respect

Archival footage from a rockslide in 1983 that collapsed part of Highway 1 near Malibu. Photo: trekandshoot/Shutterstock

Rockslides and damage to Highway 1 are very common. A recent slide that damaged and closed part of the road near Malibu is a frequent occurrence for those living along the highway. Matador’s managing editor, Nickolaus Hines, grew up in Lompoc, a small town on the Central Coast where Highway 1 doubles as the main street.

“The highway was the primary way in and out of town for any trips going north or south, as well as the many beaches dotting the coastline. Learning that there’s a rumor Highway 1 has never been fully operational for more than a year since it opened in the 1930s wasn’t a big surprise for someone who had to deal with regular closures due to wildfires, mudslides, flooding, and construction.”

Climate change is making these incidents more common, and in some case, worse.

“Almost a century since it was built and it has been slide after slide after slide,” Dr Gary Griggs, a coastal erosion expert at University of California, Santa Cruz, told The Guardian. “Nothing is ever going to change that, and, with these climate change indicators, it will probably get worse.”

Griggs has been sounding the alarm for years. He told USAToday in 2021 that rising global temperatures will further endanger the highway, and since then dozens of incidents, including rockslides, mudslides, and storm damage, have closed portions of the highway. Griggs notes that the day may come when it is too costly to repair the road, or otherwise doesn’t make sense to do so due to impending further damage.

I’m not here to argue for avoidance of Highway 1. I’d be a hypocrite to do so – storm damage and snow close roads in Colorado on a regular basis, making driving I-70 through the Rockies from Denver to Grand Junction among the most unpredictable and hazard-prone drives in the US. This has always been true in winter, and is now the case year-round, following the 2020 Grizzly Creek Fire in Glenwood Canyon that destroyed tree cover and made the road exceptionally vulnerable to rockslides.

Rather, scenic highways like the PCH should be treated as a living entity, because they may not always be there for us to enjoy. Human impact on the environment is inevitable at our scale. As travelers, we must be prepared to alter plans at a moment’s notice. The takeaway appears to be this: Drive the PCH. It’s beautiful and more than worth it. Just have a backup route planned for particularly perilous stretches, and if you can, add a day or two of buffer time into your trip planning.

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What It’s Like Inside the Largest Spa Complex in Europe

The largest spa in Europe is located a ten-minute drive from Romania’s capital Bucharest. The sprawling complex of Therme Bucharest welcomes an average of 3,500 visitors daily who come to unwind in this otherwordly tropical oasis. And these numbers may well grow. With Romania joining the Schengen, vacationing in the country just became a lot more straightforward. If you’re planning a trip to Romania, or if you’re just a little curious, here’s what Europe’s largest spa complex looks like.

@loulouexplores People ask me why I love Romania so much. I just show them my many videos on here THERME BUCHAREST! #bucharest #thermebucharest #therme #romania #travelromania #loveromania #romaniatiktok #femaletravel #noirtravel #exploreeurope #traveltiktok #TravelDestinations #placestovisit ♬ You Only Live Twice (Instrumental) – John Barry

First things first, Therme Bucharest is huge. The complex has 44,000 square meters of wellness, leisure, and spa space spread over two floors of a colossal glass-and-steel structure. It continues outside, where you’ll find the biggest urban beach in Europe, outdoor pools, and a botanical garden.

Photo: Therme Bucuresti

Plan on spending a full day here to make the most of your visit. To navigate the different areas, you’ll choose between zones upon arrival. The Galaxy zone is the family-friendly heart of Therme Bucharest, featuring water slides, an indoor wave pool, a sandy beach (open during summer), and whirlpools. Adults can unwind in saunas, relaxation areas, and even a swim-up bar.

In the Elysium zone, there are various saunas with Aufguss therapy sessions (specialized infusions for an enhanced sauna experience) and thermal baths. Therme Bucharest extracts water from a depth of more than 3000 meters (around two miles,) which feeds into ten indoor and outdoor pools. Rich in salts, copper, zinc, selenium, calcium, and magnesium, the water is constantly maintained at a comfortable 86°F, making this a great place to visit in the colder months.

Photo: Therme Bucuresti

The Palm zone is adults-only. Here, you’ll find three mineral pools with varying temperatures and therapeutic properties, an outdoor Jacuzzi, a detoxifying steam room, hydro-massage beds, sun loungers, hammocks, and a health-conscious restaurant.

Photo: Therme Bucuresti

There’s also a saltwater pool and a beautiful botanical garden to explore. The botanical garden is home to over 800,000 plants. This includes over 1,500 palm trees, a variety of orchids, and many other exotic species.

Tickets for Therme Bucharest are available for different durations, typically ranging from three hours to a full day. Prices start around $10 for adults for three hours and go up from there.

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The 20 Best Airbnbs Near Universal Studios Orlando

Along with Disney World, Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Whether it’s immersing yourself in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Mayhem, Jurassic Park, or Whoville, it’s no surprise Universal appeals not only to families, but also couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends. As with all vacations, choosing the right place to stay is essential. If you’re looking for an authentic accommodation option in Orlando here’s the most convenient and luxurious Airbnbs near Universal Studios.

Traveling to Orlando, Universal Studios, or Disney World? Check out Matador’s guides to the best places to stay in the area: 8 of the coolest Airbnbs near Disney World, Florida 15 beautiful Florida Airbnbs for every type of traveler 6 Kissimmee Airbnbs for a multi-generational family Disney trip Bookend your Disney trip at these beautiful Orlando airport hotels The best 11 Airbnbs near Universal Studios 10 family-friendly Orlando resorts minutes from all major theme parks These downtown Orlando hotels put you near the best of the city center Top Orlando Airbnbs with a pool for the ultimate Florida getaway These Airbnbs put you a stone’s throw from Peppa Pig Theme Park

We hope you love the Airbnbs we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Airbnbs near Universal Studios for solo travelers and couplesAirbnbs near Universal Studios for small groups and familiesAirbnbs near Universal Studios for large groups and gatheringsWhat time does Universal Studios open?How much is parking at Universal Studios?How far is Universal Studios from Disney World?The best Airbnbs near Universal Studios for solo travelers and couplesGame-themed epic condo with pool, lazy river, and lake viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Just two miles from Universal Studios, this family-sized condo has views of the lake and pool. The condo has multiplied bedrooms — often Disney-themed — and has access to a massive game room with foosball, pool, darts, and more. You’ll have the entire place to yourself, with the vibe of being in a high-end resort (sans-cost and annoying tourists).

Fourteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $476 per night

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Airbnb studio with oversized balconyPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Located right off International Drive and just two miles from Universal Studios, this studio has a 400-square-foot balcony where you can watch the evening fireworks. It’s perfect for a couple or a family of up to four people, with a king-sized bed and a pullout daybed.

Four guests, one bedroom
Price: $88 per night

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Stunning romantic pool-side suitePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis is an “in-law” apartment, which means it’s attached to a larger house. With private access, the rental accommodates two adults comfortably and comes with a full kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and living room. Perfect for a quiet romantic getaway, the house is located in a residential neighborhood in an upper-scale part of town. The pool is all yours. The owners do not use the facilities, so for this price point, the apartment and its facilities are a fantastic find.

Two guests, one bedrooms
Price: $134 per night

Book Now Spacious loft central to DowntownPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThe spacious loft townhouse has a perfect location for those who are purposefully coming into the city for the park. It has two bedrooms and sleeps four guests. The main bedroom has a king-size bed, and the second is open-air with a pull-out queen. There’s free parking in front of the townhouse, and the host kindly offers to drive guests (for a fee) if they don’t have access to a vehicle. It includes shared access to the communal outdoor areas, the pool, grilling facilities, and gym.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $119 per night

Book NowTwo-bedroom unit with the luxury amenities of a resortPendingPendingPendingPending

 

See more photosFinding a one-bedroom Airbnb so close to Universal Studios can be hard. But with comparable prices (and standards) between those with one or two bedrooms, you may as well opt for extra space. This rental is excellent for those who want resort facilities with the option to cook meals at home. Keep in mind eating out will be one of the most expensive elements of visiting the theme park, so having the option to prepare a picnic lunch or a quick bowl of pasta in the evening will help those on a budget. The rental has free parking, and guests have access to the hotel-standard outdoor swimming pool.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $184 per night

Book NowThe best Airbnbs near Universal studios for families and small groupsConveniently-located three-bedroom unit with pool, lazy riverPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This three-bedroom condo is conveniently surrounded by restaurants, and right near Millenia Mall and International Drive. It’s just 10 minutes to Universal Studios and 20 minutes to Disney World, but perhaps best of all, it has access to a private pool where you can soak up the hot Florida sun. This pool includes a lazy river, waterslide, and a kid’s waterpark.

Ten guests, three bedrooms
Price: $240 per night

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Lakehouse next to Universal StudiosPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This luxurious, modern single-family home can access a lake in the highly sought-after Doctor Phillips neighborhood. It’s also just a few miles from Universal Studios, Disney World, and Seaworld Orlando.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $390 per night

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Cozy home with private courtyard and tiki bar lanaiPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This Airbnb near Universal Studios is right across the street from the park. The house has an open kitchen, dining, and living room, along with a private courtyard. Outside the house, there’s even a lanai with a tiki bar. Given its convenient location, you can easily walk to the gates of Universal’s parks in just 15 minutes. Also note that this is a monthly (not daily) rental, making it the perfect option if you’re looking to spend the entire season in Orlando.

Five guests, two bedrooms
Price: $2,322 per month

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Condo overlooking a lakePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Why not combine a theme park trip with a lake vacation? This two-bedroom condo overlooks a beautiful lake near International Drive, and has panoramic views of the area’s attractions, including Seaworld and ICON Park. The condo itself features a glossy floor, quartz counter, induction stove, rain shower with a massage sprayer, two communal oversized pools, and an indoor heated pool and spa.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $97 per night

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Newly renovated condo suite right next to Universal StudiosPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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The location of this condo is perfect. It’s within walking distance of many restaurants on International Drive and is under a 10-minute drive away from Universal. It overlooks a stunning lake and features two ensuite bedrooms, one with two singles (perfect for kids) and another queen-sized room. Beautifully decorated, the kid’s room is Harry Potter-themed while the adults’ sleeping quarters sport a blue and white seaside-inspired decor. The rental is within a complex with two outdoor oversized pools, an indoor heated pool, two kid pools, a tennis court, ping-pong tables, grilling facilities, a food court, and a convenience store.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $123 per night

Book NowBeautiful family home with heated poolPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis single-family home has a heated pool and a spacious fenced backyard in one of Orlando’s best neighborhoods. It’s also a guest favorite on Airbnb, with top marks across the board and many recent five-star reviews. It’s located just over a mile from Universal, five minutes from Orlando’s popular Restaurant Row, and ten miles from Disney. The spacious and beautifully decorated home has three bedrooms – the smaller one with two twin beds. Outdoors, you’ll find the heated pool and an outdoor area to kick back and enjoy after a long day at the park.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $325 per night

Book NowTwo-bedroom home outside the gates of UniversalPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosAnother Airbnb with outstanding reviews is this modern home with two bedrooms and the option for a pull-out couch for two extra guests. The park is a scenic fifteen-minute walk from the front door, making this one of the closest rentals listed. It gives you the comfort and functionality of a home and is hugely more affordable than a park hotel. There’s the added benefit of the fenced-in backyard and two patio areas, ideal for those with energetic kids.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $145 per night

Book NowThe best Airbnbs near Universal Studios for large groupsVacation home with lake viewsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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Casablanca, a spacious vacation home, is located in the popular Doctor Phillips neighborhood with views of the lake from almost every room. Guests can enjoy the pool and hot tub in the private backyard, and the property is under 15 minutes away from Universal, Disney, and International Drive.

Nine guests, four bedrooms
Price: $343 per night

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Modern luxury lake house just west of central OrlandoPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This gorgeous Airbnb near Universal Studios is located in western Orlando, just six miles from Universal, eight miles to Disney. The home provides guests with access to community amenities including a pool, hot tub, and a lake — the home is actually the lower half of a lake house on Lake Rose. It’s spacious and comfortable, perfect for the family who wants to enjoy the parks without the chaos and hassle of staying in the city center.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $360 per night

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Large house with pool and hammockPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This modern house is just five minutes from Universal and has a large pool, hammock, BBQ, and even cornhole set. The home features brand-new appliances and furniture with smart TVs in every bedroom.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $170 per night

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Spacious condo with heated poolPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

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This 2,000-square-foot condo gives guests access to heated pools, a fitness center, a game room, a full-service bar, a playground, and a sports court just four miles away from Universal. There’s also a nearby lake which is popular for jogging and walking. The condo has four bedrooms, with the fourth bedroom featuring an air hockey table and bunk beds.

Fifteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $295 per night

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Magnificent four-bedroom lake housePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosSituated on a lakefront in a quiet and secluded neighborhood within minutes of Universal, this is one of the more elevated stays on Airbnb in the area. The multi-level home is spacious, with a large family room and dining room, perfect for entertaining. Outside, the patio provides plenty of additional seating, and there’s even an outdoor TV near the grilling station. It’s worth noting that the pool and spa are not heated, but it being Florida, I’m sure that won’t be a huge issue.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $795 per night

Book NowBohemian-style family home with space for eight guestsPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosRecently remodeled, this bohemian-style single-family home has a private heated pool and lake access. It’s just over a mile from the gates of Universal and has ample parking with five spaces. There are also added extras like kayaks, sun loungers, exceptional outdoor grilling facilities, a poolside dining area, and a fire pit. The interior is bright, modern, and spacious, everything you’d want from a rental in Florida, especially if you’re visiting in summer when a lakeside breeze (and central air conditioning) will be welcome.

Eight guests, four bedrooms
Price: $347 per night

Book NowHuge house for a multi-generational group with a mini golf coursePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosThis one-of-a-kind Orlando rental comes with a custom 18-hole mini golf course with practice greens and sand traps. Ideal for a large group, who want the fun to continue outside the park, the backyard (with a heated pool) is packed with games such as cornhole and darts, and there are frisbees to play with and even a batting cage. It’s also pet-friendly, with a $25 per pet fee for the entire stay. Make sure you pack your sunglasses, as the colorful interior is just as fun as the huge outdoor garden of games.

Thirteen guests, four bedrooms
Price: $357 per night

Book NowMid-century style cozy three-bedroom homePhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

 

See more photosCentrally located hops away from all Orlando has to offer, this mid-century style home comfortably sleeps six and is one of the most loved rentals on Airbnb. It’s located in Dr. Phillips, one of the most sought-after (and safe) neighborhoods in Orlando. Universal Studios is just over a mile away, as are all other must-see attractions. The home is tastefully decorated, with a modern, open-planned, fully-equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar and stools that lead out to the home’s outdoor patio. The main bedroom also features sliding patio doors, allowing natural light to stream in. Outside, there’s a hot tub, grilling facilities, outdoor games, and an ample sitting area where you can relax after a day at Universal.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $275 per night

Book NowWhat time does Universal Studios open?

Universal Studios Florida is open from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays through Wednesdays, and from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Thursdays through Saturdays. Universal Studios Florida offers a variety of attractions, shows, events, and dining experiences for guests to enjoy.

How much is parking at Universal Studios?

Parking at Universal Studios Florida can vary in price depending on the type of parking you choose. The standard 2023 Universal Orlando parking price is $27 per car, with a Prime Upgrade for $32 and Prime Parking for $60. Valet Parking is also available for cars and vans for $27 for less than 2 hours, and RV/Bus Parking is $32 per day. After 6pm, free parking is available for all guests.

How far is Universal Studios from Disney World?

Universal Studios is located in Orlando, Florida and is approximately 20 miles away from Disney World, which is also located in Orlando. Universal Studios is much smaller than Disney World, with around 840 acres compared to the 47 square miles of Disney World. While both resorts offer a variety of attractions and activities, they have different strengths and weaknesses.

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This Cruise Line Started Its Own Traveler Book Club, and You Can Join for Free

On my last cruise, a transatlantic crossing with Holland America, the onboard library was closed for renovations. I’m an avid reader and had planned to rely on the ship’s library for my literary needs during the long days at sea, so I was disappointed and little inconvenienced. And so were many of my fellow cruisers who, like me, had packed only one book, thinking they would be able to get more on board. But it was only a matter of time before the cruise line got the onboard libraries running again. As per a press release from Holland America on April 4, 2024, all of the libraries on Holland America Line’s ships have now been refurbished, redecorated, and stocked with up to 1,700 books across a multitude of genres. And that’s not all: Holland America now runs its very own book club.

Holland America is teaming up with Audible to create a virtual book club for its guests, whether they be on shore or at sea. On the first week of the each month, the cruise line will select an audiobook or Audible Original which highlights the regions where Holland America travels, such as Alaska, Europe, Canada, Asia, and the Caribbean. The book selection will be announced on the cruise line’s social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) and followers will be able to obtain the virtual volume from Audible thanks to a two-month extended free trial of Audible Premium Plus. The first book chosen is James Patterson’s The Justice, which is an Audible Original thriller.

The book club discussions will take place at the end of each month on the cruise line’s social media platforms. Holland America will post thought-starters about the books and encourage conversation in the comments among its followers.

Because voracious readers can’t just stick to only one book per month, in between the Holland America Book Club selections, you can check out the cruise line’s curated audiobook recommendations and take your pick.

If two free months with Audible isn’t nearly enough for you, don’t fret. While on board, guests are now able to listen to Audible for free and without a subscription via their cabin’s entertainment system.

Holland America is not the only one in the travel sphere who’s noticed that having a good selection of reading materials is important to travelers. Daytona Beach International Airport provides books for passengers traveling through. The airport’s newly renovated business center offers complimentary books that travelers can take without the need to return them. The airport also has a virtual library of almost one million titles ranging from eBook, eAudio, comic, movie, music, television, and magazine titles available through the online platforms Hoopla and Flipster. Passengers don’t need a library card to borrow anything, but they do need to be inside the airport to take advantage of them.

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I Travel for a Living, and This Company’s Shirts and Pants Go Everywhere I Do

Roark is a brand that owns its place in the surf and adventure travel space as one of the segment’s only identifiably unique clothing options. You know a Roark shirt when you see it in the wild, and if you find yourself surrounded by them that’s a sign you’re doing something, or traveling somewhere, awesome. No brand speaks more directly to my needs as a traveler who spends the bulk of his non-laptop time outside. But what I really love about Roark – and the reason why its seasonal catalog resonates so deeply – is that this is the only men’s clothing option multifaceted enough that its button-down shirts and khaki shorts are both professional-looking and adventure-ready at the same time. This means I feel presentable even after a day on the trail, and can travel with a light pack, to boot.

We hope you love Roark’s travel clothes! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Putting Roark’s travel clothes to the testAt the confluence of the Salmon and Snake Rivers in Idaho. Photo: Tim WengerMost Turkish nightclubs double as hookah bars. Photo: Tim Wenger

In November of last year, I traveled to Mexico City for a work retreat. 60 Matador colleagues gathered at a posh hotel in Condesa for five days of excursions, meetings, and revelry. The itinerary included cultural sightseeing, nights out, quarterly and annual planning, and meals ranging from high-end (lunch at Contramar) to budget (tortas from the street vendor outside the hotel). I flew in a few days early to embark on a trek of the Nevado de Toluca volcano, about two hours outside the city. I also played the digital nomad card by staying after the retreat – I moved across town to the Selina coworking hostel in Centro Historico to post up and write.

All I brought on the trip was a carry-on backpack with light outdoor and work gear, boots of both the dressy and trail variety, and a few days’ worth of clothes. This was possible not because of some secret travel hack I’d uncovered. Nor did it require me to slum it in inappropriate attire for certain functions. Quite the opposite, rather – I felt properly dressed throughout the journey. That’s because over the past several years I’ve whittled my wardrobe down to the point where most everything I wear for day-to-day life comes from Roark. As a Matador editor, I regularly travel the world with a laptop and a snowboard, and no other clothing brand keeps me presentable no matter where I am or what I’m doing.

Case in point. In the first photo above, I’m in a Roark breathable button-down on a Salmon River expedition. The next photo is the same shirt, out at a nightclub in central Turkey, also wearing Roark’s Highway 128 jeans. In the photos below, I’m in Roark’s Well Worn Midnight Organic t-shirt inside the Nevado de Toluca volcano crater. In the following, I’m in the same shirt – nearly a week later, at the Teotihuacan pyramids. I’m also wearing Roark’s Highway 133 slim-fit jeans. The breathability and sweat-absorbing properties of the tops allow for multiple wears without the need for a wash.

No lake of fire awaited us inside this volcano. Photo: Rulo Luna RamosAmazed by the Teotihuacan pyramids. Photo: Tim WengerWhy Roark stands apart as the best travel clothing brand

Roark’s roots are in the surf and adventure travel spaces, both quite casual by nature. Founder Ryan Hitzel grew up surfing in Laguna Beach and drew inspiration for the company through his adventures traveling and working for Volcom. Surf style reigns supreme – the Highway 133 slim-fit jeans fit comfortably under the brand’s eccentric and often beach-inspired t-shirt designs. Still, these aren’t lounge clothes. They’re built to be worn hard – Roark focuses intently on breathable materials that allow for movement, and typically include features like water resistance or quick-dry capability. You can sweat into your shirt on the trail without feeling gross at the bar afterward. The brand also uses organic cotton wherever possible.

The designs are inspired by a variety of adventure sports, so they can transition from hiking to sightseeing without feeling out of place. I’ve also come to love Roark’s travel-friendly features: Many Roark pieces include hidden pockets or convertible styles, making them ideal for packing light and staying organized. Each season sees a line of clothing inspired by the Roark team, known as Revivalists, and their adventures in a specific location around the globe. I tend to pick up one or two items from each release. This spring I opted for the Gonzo Camp Collar Shirt in Sarda Almond and the Journey Shirt in Tahiti Nui black. The Journey Shirt, in particular, is the type of item that draws me to Roark because it’s a statement piece that looks good in settings as formal as I tend to find myself in. I’d wear it to an interview with a story subject or on a Sunday bike ride with my daughter without thinking twice.

Roark’s button-downs are the ultimate shirt for looking cool in a meeting. I always get comments on them. Some button-downs, including the Bless Up Breatheable Stretch line, are made with moisture-wicking or quick-drying materials, which can be key in hot or humid climates. They also offer a range of fits, from classic to slimmer cuts, so you can find one that suits your body type and preference. The company also recently launched a women’s line.

Clothes built for travel days

Roark Layover Utility pants. Photo courtesy Roark

Roark’s iconic Layover Pant is the company’s best take on airplane clothes. I’ve owned two pairs over the years and admittedly was not a fan of the older pair. They were baggy and I could never get the drawstring to stay tight enough. But the brand took the concept back to the drawing board and released an updated version last fall that includes a Utility option and a Traveler option, with insulated legs perfect for flying to mountain destinations in the winter. The drawstring is tighter this time around, too.

I wear Roark’s Well Worn long-sleeve t-shirt on travel days frequently and will also take it on the trail for hikes or bike rides to avoid burning my arms if I know I will be spending hours in the sun. Many of my colleagues appear to feel the same way, as several others sported Roark shirts for our team dinners and the day trip to the Teotihuacán pyramids.

With its commitment to quality, comfort, and versatility, Roark garments are built to withstand the rigors of the road while remaining stylish enough for any urban adventure. Think of them as an investment in your nomadic spirit – and then get out there and put them to use.

Check out Roark’s latest line

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How to Get a Reservation at the 10 Most Popular National Parks for Tent Camping

Visiting national parks has always been popular, but in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s gotten more popular than ever. That’s according to newly shared data from the National Park Service, which counted 325.5 million recreation visits in 2023 across 400 reporting units (of 428 total) managed by the National Park Service. That’s a four-percent increase over 2022, and a nearly nine-percent increase over 2021.

But one thing that has stayed fairly steady are which parks are the most popular for good, old-fashioned camping trips, with a tent and sleeping bags. While RV camping has grown in popularity, tent camping is still a staple of the recreation experience at some of America’s most popular national parks.

The most popular national parks for tent camping in 2023

Zion’s Watchman Campground is a perennial favorite in the park system. Photo: Andriy Blokhin/Shutterstock

Yosemite National Park, CA: 275,278 tent camper visits (representing 12.5 percent of all tent camping in the NPS system)Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN and NC: 207,070 tent camper visits (representing nine percent of all tent camping in the system)Joshua Tree National Park, CA: 200,056 tent camper visits (also about nine percent)Grand Canyon National Park, AZ: 159,019 tent camper visitsGlacier National Park, MT: 132, 219 tent camper visitsShenandoah National Park, VA: 122,031 tent camper visitsOlympic National Park, WA: 121,314 tent camper visitsAcadia National Park, ME: 120,615 tent camper visitsZion National Park, UT: 100,411 tent camper visitsDeath Valley National Park, CA and NV: 71,063 tent camper visits

Of course, it’s not just because these parks are inherently the “best” for camping. They’re also among the most popular in the park service for any kind of visit, and many are near major cities and draw weekend visitors, like Joshua Tree (two hours from Los Angeles), and Olympic National Park (two hours from Seattle). It also depends on the size of the available campgrounds; for example, Yosemite’s front-country campgrounds have more than 1,000 tent sites.

Interestingly, the popularity of these parks has been fairly consistent for decades, with a list of the most popular parks for tent camping in the 1990s showing seven of the same parks on the top 10. Some parks on both years’ lists, like Yosemite, have better regulated and restricted camping to bring their numbers down, while other parks, like Yellowstone, have opened additional in-park hotels and nearby glamping resorts that may be drawing former tent campers to other lodging options.

The most popular parks for tent camping in 1990

Campgrounds in Yosemite have been popular with campers since the NPS began collecting data in the 1970s. Photo: GizaDog/Shutterstock

Yosemite National Park: 754,555 tent camper visitsYellowstone National Park, WY, ID, and MT: 216,000 tent camper visitsGreat Smoky Mountains National Park, TN and NC: 182,927 tent camper visitsGrand Canyon National Park, AZ: 135,457 tent camper visitsKings Canyon National Park, CA: 127,396 tent camper visitsAcadia National Park, ME: 126,135 tent camper visitsOlympic National Park, WA: 124,536 tent camper visitsJoshua Tree National Park, CA: 122,841 tent camper visitsZion National Park, UT: 117,157 tent camper visitsGrant Teton National Park: 111,492 tent camper visitsHow to get a tent camping site in a popular national park

The Jumbo Rocks Campground at Joshua Tree National Park, California. Photo: Mo Lawthong/Shutterstock

If you’re keen to camp in 2024 at Yosemite, Acadia, Zion, or any other of the most popular tent camping parks, you’ll need to make your plans in advance — in some cases, at least six months in advance.

All of the 10 most popular tent camping parks require reservations for the vast majority of their front-country (drive-in) campgrounds. Reservations for those campgrounds open on a rolling basis in advance on Recreation.gov, sometimes as far as six months in advance. Each park has different time frames, rules, options, and methods for booking campsites, so you’ll need to check the individual Recreation.gov page in advance for each park.

You may want to bookmark this page, because here are all the official links for campgrounds at the top 10 most popular tent-camping national parks. Not included are group campsite or horse-friendly campgrounds. If a campground isn’t listed, it doesn’t take reservations.

Yosemite National Park campgrounds: Upper Pines, Hodgedon Meadow, Crane Flat, North Pines, Lower Pines, Tuolumne Meadows, Bridal Veil, Wawona, Yosemite Creek, White Wolf, Porcupine Flat, Camp 4, Tamarack FlatGreat Smoky Mountains National Park campgrounds: Big Creek, Deep Creek, Balsam Mountain, Smokemont Campground, Cataloochee Campground, Elkmont CamgroundJoshua Tree National Park campgrounds: Indian Cove, Black Rock, Cottonwood, Ryan, Jumbo Rocks (Here’s Matador’s more in-depth guide to camping in Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks).Grand Canyon National Park campgrounds: North Rim, Desert View, Mather Glacier National Park campgrounds: Two Medicine, St. Mary, Many Glacier, Sprague Creek, Apgar, Avalanche, Fish Creek (Here’s Matador’s more in-depth guide to camping in Glacier and Yellowstone national parks)Shenandoah National Park campgrounds: Matthews Arm, Loft Mountain, Big Meadows, Lewis MountainOlympic National Park campgrounds: Hoh Rainforest, Fairholm, Kalalach, Mora, Sul Doc Hot SpringsAcadia National Park campgrounds: Seawall, Blackwoods, Schoodic Woods, Duck HarborZion National Park campgrounds: Lava Point, Watchman, SouthDeath Valley National Park campgrounds: Furnace CreekGeneral tips for getting campground reservations at popular parks

Some parks do last-minute campground reservations online, while some require you to show up in person. Photo: NPS/Public Domain

Some campgrounds are first-come, first-serve, or leave a certain number of spots open for first-come, first-serve users (like at Glacier). Some parks require you to wait in line early in the morning to get a number, but don’t tell you until that afternoon if there are enough free spots that your number came up (like in the Yosemite Valley). Some parks offer next-day reservations on Recreation.gov, while some parks have lotteries for popular campgrounds.

It’s important to know the regulations for each park before making your plans, but here are a few general tips that should help no matter where you’re going.

For campgrounds with first-come, first-serve spaces, you’ll probably need to arrive very early — no later than 5:30 or 6 AM on weekends at popular parks.Visiting in the off season will greatly improve your chances of finding a last-minute campground reservation, especially at seasonally dependent parks like Glacier and Acadia. However, many park campgrounds close in the off-seasons, so make sure the one you want is open before beginning your trip.If you can’t find a reservation though Recreation.gov, go to the park’s webpage and click “Plan Your Visit,” then “Eating and Sleeping.” This will bring you to the page listing hotels in the park, which sometimes have their own campgrounds managed by hotel operators, rather than the park itself. For example, Yosemite’s Camp Curry has more than 100 rentable canvas tent sites, and Death Valley’s Panamint Springs Resort has a campground with a small general store and pool.If you can’t find a campground in the park, do an online search for nearby BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land. You can camp almost anywhere on BLM land, and some popular BLM-managed areas have their own campgrounds with basic amenities like pit toilets and fire pits. There’s more BLM land near parks in the western US than there are on the East Coast. More like thisCamping9 of the Hardest National Park Campgrounds Reservations to Snag