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August 16, 2021
The best shows you can see in Vegas in 2021-2022
The COVID-19 pandemic completely upended live performances. Theaters throughout the country went dark for upwards of a year or more, and many are still in the process of reopening their stages. In Las Vegas, shows have been slowly returning, with many long-time, as well as brand-new, favorites now back in full force, and many more planning their triumphant returns in the coming months. Thankfully Vegas is still very much Vegas, and there are still a lot of fantastic shows for visitors to enjoy. These are the best shows in Vegas in 2021-2022, with a little something for all tastes and ages.
Absinthe
Photo: Absinthe Vegas/Facebook
Hands-down the best show on the Strip, Absinthe is a modern-day vaudeville/variety show that is as thrilling as it is risqué. It takes place in a big top in front of Caesars Palace, but it is definitely not for kids! Hosted by the sleazy Gazillionaire and his ribald sidekick Penny with regular appearances from the Green Fairy, Absinthe — one of the very first shows to return after the pandemic closures — is once again operating at full steam and full capacity, with performances happening twice nightly (with three shows on Fridays and Saturdays), seven days a week, 365 days a year. With that kind of schedule, not every performer is at every show, which means the lineup is ever-evolving and no matter how many times you see it, it’s never the same show twice.
Where: Caesars Palace, 3570 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE!The fabulous queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race are finally slaying again at the Flamingo after a brief, ill-timed residency that launched in February 2020. Watch them WERK to a whole show of custom choreography and original numbers with outrageous costumes not seen on TV. Catch all the fierceness nightly Thursdays through Mondays.
Where: Flamingo Hotel & Casino, 3555 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Mystère
Photo: Treasure Island Hotel & Casino/Facebook
The original Las Vegas resident Cirque show that launched all the others, it seems only fitting that Mystère would be the first Cirque performance to return to the stage. Still in its original home at Treasure Island since 1993, Mystère is Cirque’s longest-running show and was the first to bring their unique mix of circus acts, world music, comedy, and elaborate sets and costumes to the Strip. Catch it Fridays through Tuesdays with two shows nightly.
Where: Treasure Island, 3300 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Criss Angel MINDFREAKMINDFREAK isn’t just another Vegas magic show — it’s an over-the-top Vegas production with plenty of pyrotechnics and theatrics (and some super-creepy contortionists). Angel narrates throughout, reflecting back on his career and sharing some personal stories. This production features all of his greatest tricks and illusions, including a straitjacket escape while hanging above the audience, lots of levitation, and motorcycle-conjuring. There are also some horror elements to it (not great for young kids), as well as live musicians that will remind some audience members of Mad Max: Fury Road. Experience Angel’s vision nightly at Planet Hollywood Wednesdays through Sundays.
Where: Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Penn & Teller
Photo: Bill Roque/Shutterstock
Penn & Teller’s headlining show at the Rio is the longest-running residency in Las Vegas history. This comedy/magic duo have been headliners in Vegas for nearly 30 years and with good reason: equal parts awe-inspiring illusions and sharp-witted humor continue to impress audience members even after multiple viewings. If you see one magic show in Vegas, make it this. See them nightly Thursdays through Sundays.
Where: Rio Hotel & Casino, 3700 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89103, USA
Piff the Magic Dragon
Photo: Piff the Magic Dragon/Facebook
Another magic/comedy act in the vein of Penn & Teller, only instead of a small silent magic-performing human sidekick, Piff has a small silent magic-performing Chihuahua called Mr. Piffles along with the fabulous Jade Simone. Piff the Magic Dragon will have you laughing out loud, and for some extra one-on-one attention with Piff & Co. splurge on Piff’s Pre-Show Party and meet-and-greet before the show. You can see Mr. Piffles and his dragon-costumed human at the Flamingo nightly, Thursdays through Mondays.
Where: Flamingo Hotel & Casino, 3555 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Jabbawockeez TimelessThe only hip-hop dance crew to have a residency in Las Vegas, Jabbawockeez bring mind-melding breakdancing, pulsing music, and impressive special effects to a show that’s appropriate for all ages. Now located inside the MGM Grand with an all-new show, Timeless, you can catch the performance twice nightly Wednesdays through Mondays.
Where: MGM Grand, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Atomic Saloon Show
Photo: Atomic Saloon Show/Facebook
Cirque may be the most popular entertainment company with a heavy presence in Las Vegas, but Spiegelworld is the most notorious. The company that brought us Absinthe over a decade ago, completely transforming Vegas entertainment, now has three utterly deranged shows on the Strip, each managing (against all odds and all limits of good taste) to top the one before it in outlandishness. Atomic Saloon Show at the Venetian is the most recent show, and in terms of stage-setting and story-crafting, it is their best yet. The show takes place during the Wild West inside an Old West saloon/brothel run by Madame Boozy Skunkton, and it is, at its core, a love story. There are rhinestone cowboys and nuns doing things with ping pong balls, and the physical feats on display in this show will have you both cheering and wincing. Giddy-up on over to the Venetian Wednesdays through Sundays with two shows nightly.
Where: The Venetian Resort, 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
O
Photo: Bellagio Las Vegas/Facebook
Another long-running Cirque show, the surrealist O at the Bellagio was the first show in Vegas to be staged entirely around a massive pool — this one holds 1.5 million gallons of water — and consist almost exclusively of aquatic-based performances, including divers and synchronized swimmers, in addition to aerialists and other acrobatic performers. O plays twice nightly Wednesdays through Sundays.
Where: Bellagio Hotel & Casino, 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Legends in Concert
Photo: Legends In Concert/Facebook
Legends in Concert has the unique distinction of being the longest-running show on the Las Vegas Strip (Penn & Teller, by contrast, is the longest-running residency show). While it has bounced around stages at different resorts, it’s always stayed on the Strip, and the talented cast is now taking their bows at the Tropicana. Legends in Concert has a deep pool of impersonator-performers to draw from so the lineup is always changing, but you can expect to see some real Vegas legends like Frank Sinatra, Elvis (obviously), and, of course, Joan Rivers, played by the one and only Frank Moreno — a Vegas legend in his own right as the longest-running performer on the Strip and now the host(ess) of this classic crowd-pleasing show. Performances are nightly Thursdays through Sundays.
Where: Tropicana, 3801 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Blue Man Group
Photo: Blue Man Group/Facebook
Blue Man Group has been around for over 30 years, yet they still pull people into the Luxor night after night. For the uninitiated, grown men paint themselves blue and bang on things while also blending different elements of music and art with current social/cultural references to stay relevant. There’s plenty of splashing neon paint and unlikely instruments made from materials like PVC pipe, and while there is some more adult nudge-nudge, wink-wink humor, it’s subtle enough to sail over the heads of any little ones you have in tow, who will just enjoy the visual and auditory spectacle. Shows are held twice nightly, Thursdays through Mondays.
Where: Luxor Hotel & Casino, 3900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
Vegas shows returning soon:Michael Jackson’s ONE
Photo: Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil/Facebook
ONE isn’t the only Cirque show that sets their unique stage production, costumes, and choreography to a catalogue of music from a single musician (it’s not even the only Cirque show in Vegas to do so), but for our money it is by far the best. ONE takes some of the King of Pop’s biggest hits and best songs and recreates some of his most famous costumes and choreography like a music video come to life onstage. Every single number here is just fantastic, but “Dirty Diana” is especially sublime. ONE reopens at Mandalay Bay on August 19, 2021.
Where: Mandalay Bay, 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
Magic Mike LiveMagic Mike Live is reopening at the SAHARA after a massive renovation customizing the theatre just for this show (including zip lines that span the full venue and a two-story bar/performance space.) Magic Mike Live is an incredibly sexy (and definitely adults-only) dance-centric, immersive show that is so much more than an all-male revue you would find at other Strip shows. The magic returns August 27, 2021.
Where: SAHARA 2535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
OPIUMHop on the OPM 73 spaceship flight from Uranus to Las Vegas. Yes, it’s juvenile. It’s meant to be. Just lean into it. OPIUM at the Cosmopolitan is a whacked-out sci-fi send-up structured around a ‘60s retro outer space TV/movie homage-meets-robot/furry/gender-fluid fetishism in a super-corny, wink-wink comedy of errors. OPIUM blasts off again on September 24, 2021.
Where: The Cosmopolitan, 3708 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
The Beatles LOVE
Photo: The Mirage Hotel and Casino/Facebook
The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil is the Fab Four as only Cirque could do, with interpretive choreography and super-psychedelic visuals to some of the Beatles’ most popular songs. LOVE is scheduled to return to the stage at the Mirage on August 26, 2021.
Where: The Mirage, 3400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
More like thisCultureThe 12 most photo-worthy spots in Vegas off the StripThe post The best shows you can see in Vegas in 2021-2022 appeared first on Matador Network.
Everything you need to stay warm and cozy for fall camping
Cooler weather is rapidly approaching, and staying warm and cozy is key to enjoying a fall camping trip. This fall camping gear guide contains Matador’s Outdoor editors’ recommendations for the products they trust for use in the field, whether on single-night car camping expeditions or longer jaunts into the wilderness.
We hope you love the fall camping gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
Swiftwick Hike Six medium-weight trail socks
Photo: Swiftwick
Foot comfort is essential, whether you’re on a backpacking trip and will be moving camp each night, or just heading from the campsite to a day hike. The Swiftkick Hike Six medium-weight hiking socks keep your feet warm and dry without smothering them or negatively impacting blood circulation. The socks are designed to keep you blister-free and are made of 69 percent merino wool. Should snowshoeing be on the docket this winter, call upon these same socks.
Price: $23.99
RUMPL Original Puffy Recycled Blanket
Photo: REI
Like the original but better — because this RUMPL puffy blanket is made from recycled plastic. You’ll keep yourself warm and cozy at camp while putting your money towards a sustainable cause. This blanket packs up tight and in a true demonstration of its versatility, can also be used as a picnic blanket or pillow on the go.
Price: $99
YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle with HotShot Cap
Photo: REI
Nothing pairs better with fall camping gear than a warm drink. It doesn’t even have to be pumpkin spice. Whatever your fall beverage of choice, the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle is the ideal vessel to keep it hot and tasty for hours on end. The stainless steel design makes it easy to clean, so if you happen to spike that evening hot chocolate, the bottle won’t smell like Schnapps for all eternity.
Price: $30
JetBoil Flash Cooking System
Photo: REI
Hot food and hot coffee are essential when fall camping. Do it right with the JetBoil Flash Cooking System, which heats water and gourmet meals in just a few minutes. This burner is great for solo and even group camping due to its rapid warming speed — so you won’t have to keep people waiting for an hour just to get their morning Joe fix.
Price: $109.95
Ignik 2-in-1 Heater Stove
Photo: REI
Ignik hit the nail on the head with this dual-purpose heater. Use it outdoors for heating and cooling, and save some room in your fall camping gear setup. It packs easily and lights even more easily, keeping you warm and well-fed even on those late-fall nights when it feels as though winter could arrive at any moment.
Price: $139.95
Buy Now
Photo: Jackery Power Outdoors
Car camping is more fun when you have music. Vanlife is more fun when you have power, no matter how far off-grid you are. Jackery solves that problem with the most reliable solar-powered generator on the market. The Explorer Portable Power Station can be charged to 80 percent in about 2.5 hours. It’s available in wattages ranging from 160 to 2,000, enough to power a heater for your vehicle or even the entire campsite while simultaneously charging your phone. Add two of Jackery’s portable solar panels to your order and you’re set to ride far on the power of the sun.
Price: $1,599 for 1,500 watts
Osprey Ariel and Aether 60 backpacking packs
Photo: REI
Osprey went back to the drawing board to craft the 2021 release of the Ariel and Aether backpacks. Both with 60 liters of carrying capacity (larger sizes are available as well), these packs feature a top-notch hip belt and shoulder strap that is as comfortable as each is functional. The great thing about this pack is that it can carry all of your fall camping gear even if only on a one-night car camp, and then be the perfect companion for a hike (or an impromptu second night in the woods). The packs’ injection-molded, die-cut foam back-panel is built to mold to your back, not push against it.
Price: $340
VOORMI Access NXT Pullover
Photo: Voormi
Honing in on that fine line of warmth and comfort is the key to a successful fall camping trip. You don’t want to be too hot, because you’re outdoors and likely to be active. So you need something that is able to fend off the advance of a brisk evening without inhibiting your ability to move your body in a variety of directions. Enter the Access NXT Pullover from Voormi, available in men’s and women’s options. Its thermal wool keeps you warm while the water repellant finish keeps you dry. This thing is built to stretch and contort. This mid-layer option even has thumbholes and a chest pocket with an earphone slot. You’ll be so at ease that your crew will whisper behind your back about how well-prepared you were for the camping trip.
Price: $199
Ibex Tech Baselayer Boxers
Photo: ibex
By now you’ve caught on to the theme of this article: When it comes to fall camping gear, merino wool is your best friend. It never abandons you whether it’s day or night, as evidenced by these men’s Tech Baselayer Boxers from Ibex. Sure, you could opt for a basic pair of boxers or briefs that do little more than keep everything intact. Or, you could dress the part of the well-outfitted outdoorsman who firmly believes in a well-ventilated, well-supported, and all-around well-presented undercarriage. This is your ticket to a successful outdoor excursion, gentlemen, with enough comfort left over to keep you jammin’ until the campfire sizzles.
Price: $65
Roam Adventure Co. rooftop awning
Photo: Roam Adventure Co.
Again with the whole weather unpredictability thing, this rooftop awning from Roam Adventure Co. keeps you dry at the campsite. The brand also offers a tented version, in case the bugs are still hanging around or the monsoon waters really start coming down. The awnings pack down and away into your vehicle without taking up much space, so if you have a truck or other vehicle that you always take camping you can just leave it in the back and pull it out when needed. On that note, these awnings also make a great group gift for the person in your crew who does most of the driving. A tricked-out ride makes for a happy glide.
Price: From $279
NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie
Photo: REI
Fall camping is here, yes, but the sun still shines bright — especially at altitude. Protect your skin with the NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie. This long-sleeve sun shirt offers UPF 50+ advanced sun protection along with wicking ability to keep you dry and well-ventilated on a hike or sitting around camp. Unlike many pieces of sun protection clothing, this shirt also looks super cool, so you won’t lose any style points either.
Price: $59.95
Coalatree Nomad Packable Duffel Bag
Photo: Coalatree
Coalatree nailed the duffel with the Nomad Packable Duffel Bag. It’s the perfect carrier for those little extras you like to keep inside your tent, like a battery-powered light, a book, or toiletries. The Nomad is also perfect for parents because you can keep all of your kiddos’ outdoor belongings in one place, and both you and they will know where each can be found. If you’re planning to make just a small addition to your fall camping gear setup this year, make it this duffel.
Price: $24
More like thisBackpackingThe ultimate summer backpacking gear guide for newbiesThe post Everything you need to stay warm and cozy for fall camping appeared first on Matador Network.
August 13, 2021
18 music festivals you can still hit up this year
Music festivals might seem like a relic of the pre-pandemic past, but we have good news for music lovers of all persuasions: the 2021 festival season is in semi-full swing. Though a number of events have been called off this year, and others are still subject to be canceled or postponed, more than a dozen of the coolest North American and European fests are scheduled to take place. In order of when they’re happening, here are 18 epic music festivals to keep an eye on if you’re itching to get back on the festival scene.
1. Outlaw Music Festival — Various, US
Photo: Blackbird Presents/Facebook
With a jam-packed lineup of country music all-stars, Outlaw Music Festival will be bringing the twang to 10 states over the next three months, kicking off in Austin, TX, and culminating in Wheatland, CA. The lineup may vary depending on touring locations, but no matter where you catch the show, the great Willie Nelson will be headlining. And that’s reason enough to go.
Dates: August 22-October 24
Lineup: Willie Nelson & Family, Chris Stapleton, Sturgill Simpson, The Avett Brothers, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Gov’t Mule, Tyler Childers, Margo Price, and more
2. Bonnaroo Music Festival, TennesseeAfter a yearlong hiatus, Bonnaroo is back and right around the corner. More than 150 musical acts have been invited to perform on 10-plus stages, alongside party barns, art installations, craft and food stalls, and activities like yoga, watercolor painting sessions, and even a 5K run.
Dates: September 2-5
Lineup: Foo Fighters, Lizzo, Megan Thee Stallion, Tame Impala, Grand Ole Opry, Tyler the Creator, Rüfüs Du Sol, Phoebe Bridgers, Young the Giant, Leon Bridges, G-Eazy, and more
What’s different this year: Festival-goers are required to be fully vaccinated or have proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their arrival, which they can show at any campground medical tent to receive a Health Check Wristband. This is required in addition to the festival wristband to gain entry. Rapid antigen tests are also available on-site for $40. Masks are mandated throughout the festival grounds for all unvaccinated attendees, as well as in any indoor space regardless of vaccination status.
3. North Coast Festival, ChicagoPhoto: North Coast Music Festival/Facebook
If you’re going to be in Chicago this Labor Day weekend, there’s no better place to celebrate than SeatGeek Stadium, thanks to the North Coast Music Festival. The lineup is heavy on electronic and house artists but also features indie, hip-hop, and jam bands.
Dates: September 3-5
Lineup: Bonobo, Kaskade, Griz, Zeds Dead, Rezz, Tycho, San Holo, Louis the Child, Ganja White Night, Claude VonStroke, Chris Lake, Liquid Stranger, Sonny Fodera, and more
What’s different this year: Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival is required to attend the festival this year. Festival-goers will also be asked to present a government-issued photo ID with their vaccine card, vaccine record, or test results. Masks are encouraged but not required outside of the indoor spaces. In the event that the festival is canceled due to COVID-19, ticket holders will be eligible for a refund or have the option of redeeming their tickets in 2022.
4. Arc Music Festival, ChicagoBefore you commit to the North Coast Festival, you should know that Chicago is hosting another musical extravaganza in Union Park over Labor Day weekend: Arc Music Festival. This one promises to bring “the global scene to the birthplace of house music” as the high-tempo dance music originated in Chicago in the 1980s. Local house icons, international techno artists, and other electronic styles will all be featured across four stages.
Dates: September 4-5
Lineup: Eric Prydz, Adam Beyer, DJ Holographic, Hiroko Yamamura, Meduza, Toni Varga, Zhu, Camelphat, Deborah de Luca, Seth Troxler, Luciano, and more
What’s different this year: Festival-goers must be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the festival to attend. If the event is postponed, tickets will be valid for the rescheduled date, and refunds will be honored within 30 days of the announcement of the new dates. If the festival is canceled, ticket holders will be automatically refunded.
5. Isle of Wight Festival, UK
Photo: Isle of Wight Festival/Facebook
The Isle of Wight Festival has been one of the big rock and pop music festivals in the UK since it started in the late 1960s. Big British names such as Noel and Liam Gallagher, Florence and the Machine, Paul McCartney, and George Ezra have all played there, as well as American superstars ranging from Jimi Hendrix to The Killers and Pharrel Williams. As its name suggests, the festival is held in Newport on the Isle of Wight each year.
Dates: September 16-19
Lineup: Liam Gallagher, Snow Patrol, David Guetta, Duran Duran, Tom Jones, The Script, Kaiser Chiefs, Imelda May, James Arthur, James Vincent McMorrow, and more
What’s different this year: Festival-goers 11 and up must bring proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, proof of a negative NHS COVID-19 Lateral Flow Test taken within 72 hours of their first day of attendance, or proof of immunity from a positive PCR test taken within six months of the festival via the NHS app. For more details on NHS testing and how to receive an NHS COVID Pass, check out the COVID-19 update on the Isle of Wight Festival website.
6. iHeartRadio Music Festival, Las Vegas, USThe 2021 iHeartRadio Music Festival is bringing major Top 40 star power to T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas this September, alongside emerging artists that are quickly working their way up the charts. According to the festival’s website, “the iHeartRadio Music Festival stage is the biggest multi-genre music event anywhere.”
Dates: September 17-18
Lineup: Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, Coldplay, Cheap Trick, Maroon 5, Florida Georgia Line, J Cole, Journey, Lil Baby, Weezer, Sam Hunt, Nelly, Khalid, Finneas, and more
What’s different this year: Though there are no safety precautions specified on the festival’s website, iHeartRadio has said that it’s monitoring the COVID-19 situation to comply with all local, state, and federal mandates and recommendations, as well as live event best practices.
7. Imagine Music Festival, Atlanta
Photo: Imagine Festival/Facebook
Taking place in Chattahoochee Hills outside of Atlanta, GA, Imagine Music Festival is a wet and wild event featuring top names in the electronic music scene, some of whom will be headlining the festival’s two pool parties. You can also purchase a Pre-Party pass for a Thursday night show at one of the main stages on September 16 to get a headstart on the fun.
Dates: September 17-19
Lineup: Excision, Meduza, Griz, Illenium, Kaskade, James Kennedy, Liquid Stranger, 3LAU, Fisher, SNBRN, Shiba San, Noizu, Dion Timmer, Clozee, Laser Assassins, and more
8. Firefly Music Festival, Dover, DelawareThis three-day musical blowout has been held on The Woodlands festival ground of the 105-acre Dover International Speedway race track since 2012. Delaware might not have been on your destination radar before, but once you see who’s headlining the Firefly Music Festival, there’s a chance it’ll make your to-travel list this September.
Dates: September 23-26
Lineup: Phoebe Bridgers, Marc Rebillet, Cage the Elephant, Wiz Khalifa, Roddy Ricch, Diplo, Glass Animals, Megan Thee Stallion, Machine Gun Kelly, and more
What’s different this year: Firefly has not announced any specific COVID-19 safety precautions outside of festival-independent mandates. The organizers do acknowledge that the coronavirus is highly contagious, that the festival setting puts attendees at risk of exposure. They ask that all festival-goers comply with the health and safety policies posted at the festival, which will be decided by local and CDC quarantine requirements. If Firefly is canceled due to COVID-19, ticket holders can request a refund or keep their tickets for the following festival.
9. Governors Ball Music Festival, NYC
Photo: The Governors Ball Music Festival/Facebook
Governors Ball is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. More than just a music festival, the three-day, four-stage event also spotlights visual artists from around the world, various installations, on-site eats that capture New York City’s famous food culture, and a better drinks service than you’ll find at most festivals.
Dates: September 24-26
Lineup: Billie Eilish, Post Malone, A$AP Rocky, J Balvin, Megan Thee Stallion, Rüfüs Du Sol, 21 Savage, Ellie Goulding, Leon Bridges, Young Thug, Phoebe Bridgers, and more
What’s different this year: Given the unpredictability of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governors Ball is waiting to announce what safety measures might be in place beyond state and federal guidelines. Keep an eye on the website for updates closer to the festival dates. In the event that the festival is canceled, ticket holders are eligible for a full refund or can hang onto their tickets for Governors Ball 2022.
10. Electric Picnic, IrelandElectric Picnic is a music and arts festival held at Stradbally Hall in County Laois, Ireland. In fact, according to the website, it’s the largest music and arts festival in Ireland and “the ultimate rock n’ roll circus.” Featuring everything from theater and comedy to holistic health and hot tubs across 27 stages, this mid-sized festival packs a wholloping punch.
Dates: September 24-26
Lineup: TBD
11. AFROPUNK, Atlanta
Photo: AFROPUNK/Facebook
Atlanta’s AFROPUNK festival was started to recognize Black artists and enthusiasts in the punk music space. The festival continues to spotlight all things “alternative and experimental,” champions “radical thought and social nonconformity,” and puts inclusivity at a premium.
Dates: September 25-26
Lineup: Wale, Smino, Rico Nasty, KP The Great, TEMS, Serpentwithfeet, Tkay Maidza, Amindi, Liv.e, Hollow Sinatra, Lesibu Grand, and more
What’s different this year: Though precautionary measures have not been announced, AFROPUNK pledges to follow local and national guidelines regarding COVID-19 and plans to implement health and safety protocols accordingly. Keep an eye on the festival’s website and the social channels for specifics closer to the festival dates.
12. Austin City Limits, TexasSpread across two consecutive three-day weekends in October, Austin City Limits has welcomed leading names in the music industry to play eight stages in Austin’s Zilker Park since 2002. Genres range from pop, rock, and hip-hop to indie, country, and electronic.
Dates: October 1-3, 8-10
Lineup: Billie Eilish, Miley Cyrus, George Strait, Rüfüs Du Sol, Tyler the Creator, Duran Duran, Doja Cat, Erykah Badu, Megan Thee Stallion, Machine Gun Kelly, Jack Harlow, and more
What’s different this year: Festival-goers are expected to abide by all health and safety instructions posted on the festival grounds, which will be decided by the recommendations and mandates put forth by safety officials at the time of the festival.
13. Broccoli City Festival, Washington Metropolitan Area
Photo: Broccoli City/Facebook
Broccoli City brands itself as “the largest festival in the country for young people of color.” Included in the experience are a pop-up marketplace with vegan and gluten-free foods options, selfie art activation, lounge experiences, and more.
Dates: October 2
Lineup: Lil Baby, Snoh Aalegra, Moneybagg Yo, Lucky Date, Rubi Rose, Justine Skye, 3oh Black, Moechella, Malcolm Xavier, DJ Domo, and more
What’s different this year: Broccoli City attendees are required to follow all posted instructions regarding enhanced healthy and safety protocols once at the festival.
14. Amsterdam Dance Event, NetherlandsAmsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is one of the largest and most significant electronic and house music events in the world. Both a club-based festival and an educational conference, ADE stages shows, talks, and more in a variety of venues across the Dutch capital.
Dates: October 13-17
Lineup: Dixon, The Blessed Madonna, Tcahmi, Black Sun Empire, Lake Slater, Lucas & Steve & Friends, David Vunk, Shygirl, Sébastien Léger, Paramida, and more
What’s different this year: ADE is waiting until closer to the festival dates to announce what health and safety measurements set by the Dutch government and National Institute for Public Health and the Environment will be in effect. Subscribe to the festival newsletter for updates.
15. III Points Music Festival, Miami
Photo: III Points/Facebook
A major music, art, and technology festival, Ill Points will be taking over Miami’s Mana Wynwood Convention Center at the end of October. The eclectic lineup will be split between six stages, each of which will offer an immersive experience brought to life by all-out audiovisual tech, alongside artistry like massive mural art and live graffiti. The on-site food court is guaranteed to keep you energized for all the revelry Ill Points promises.
Dates: October 22-23
Lineup: The Strokes, Wu-Tang Clan, Rüfüs Du Sol, Eric Prydz, Jamie xx, Kaytranada, Zhu, Black Coffee, Peggy Gou, Khruangbin, Three 6 Mafia, Thundercat, Slowthai, and more
What’s different this year: Ill Points is committed to working with local and state authorities to implement precautionary measures for the health and safety of attendees.
16. Electric Daisy Carnival, Las VegasIf you’re a fan of electronic music, chances are you’re already familiar with Electric Daisy Carnival, or EDC. It’s North America’s largest electronic music dance festival and consistently pulls the genre’s biggest names to perform at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Dates: October 22-24
Lineup: Diplo, Martin Garrix, Tiësto, Kygo, Zedd, Benny Benassi, Kaskade, Rezz, Paul van Dyk, DJ Snake, Tony Romera, Maceo Plex, Louis the Child, and more
What’s different this year: Upon entry, EDC attendees assume all risks related to COVID-19 and accept sole responsibility for illness or injury, according to the festival’s liability waiver.
17. Tortuga Music Festival, Ft. Lauderdale
Photo: Tortuga Music Festival/Facebook
Country music superstars are the big draw at this beachfront festival in Ft. Lauderdale, but that’s not the only genre represented in the lineup. As a feel-good bonus, a percentage of the proceeds are donated to the Rock The Ocean Foundation, which both hosts the Tortuga Music Festival and supports marine conservation and related research.
Dates: November 12-14
Lineup: Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Pitbull, Barenaked Ladies, Jon Pardi, Cole Swindell, Billy Currington, Kip Moore, Lee Brice, Hardy, Vanilla Ice, and more
18. Desert Daze, Lake Perris, CaliforniaAn outdoor festival with views as stellar as the diverse lineup, Desert Daze is held on Moreno Beach in the Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Though it’s not the biggest name on the festival circuit, it was voted Festival of the Year 2018 by USA Today, NME Magazine, and Pollstar.
Dates: November 12-14
Lineup: The War on Drugs, Toro y Moi, Kamasi Washington, Japanese Breakfast, Devendra Banhart, Andy Shauf, Tim Heidecker, Weyes Blood, Ty Segall & Freedom Band, and more
What’s different this year: While Desert Daze’s health and safety protocols are subject to change as local and state guidelines do, festival-goers should expect to need proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to be admitted.
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Watch what it’s like to live inside Tokyo’s most famous and bizarre building: The Capsule Tower
Chris Broad, host of YouTube channel Abroad in Japan, couldn’t wait to take viewers inside what he says looks like “Jenga with washing machines.”
Tokyo’s Nakagin Capsule Tower is a unique building erected in 1972, that is made up of 140 capsule apartments, each one 13.1 feet long and 8.2 feet wide. The capsules are stacked on top of each other in a way that makes each of them removable from the main structure.
Tokyo’s Capsule Tower is part of an architectural movement called Metabolism, which is the product of Japan’s post-war economic boom in the 1960s and 1970s. As more people moved to Tokyo, the cost of housing became less affordable. In order to keep up with the needs of a growing population, architects thought out modular and adaptable buildings that could easily be expanded without disrupting the structure or using more land.
The Capsule Tower’s 50th birthday is coming up in 2022, but the very unusual building may not make it as it’s expected to be dismantled due to irreparable damage to its structure.
Broad got to chat and go on a tour of several apartments in the Capsule Tower with capsule owner and resident, Tatsuyuki Maeda.
The first capsule is preserved in its original form with a giant double-glazed circular window that opens from the inside and an unusual circular blind. The tiny apartment is fitted with a retro TV, a music system with a radio and tape recorder, and an old-fashioned dial phone. There’s built-in storage and a built-in desk, but there’s no kitchen area as it was built with business in mind rather than living. There’s also a small bathroom with a sink, tub, toilet, and even an ashtray.
Photo: mizunova/Shutterstock
The second capsule is used by Tatsuyuki Maeda as an office and a place for social gatherings and was renovated for this purpose. Without the built-in cabinets, the room can host 10 people and there is a microwave and mini fridge inside.
The final capsule on the tour is the “the stylish capsule,” designed in collaboration with the famous Japanese furnishing company Muji, who created a modern minimalistic space. The room still has that same circular window, but has removed the original built-ins and replaced them with modern shelves. The unit also has a bed.
You can expect the Nakagin Capsule Tower to disappear from the Tokyo skyline over the next couple of years, but there’s hope for all the capsules to be dismantled, saved, and placed somewhere outside of Tokyo, possibly as a capsule village or a hotel resort, to preserve the history of the Metabolism era.
More like thisTravel5 of the best under-the-radar neighborhoods in Tokyo
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COVID-19 is causing Jamaica to tighten its curfew. Here’s what you need to know
As COVID-19 cases are rising in Jamaica, the government has gradually started to tighten restrictions around the island, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said in a press briefing. A new curfew schedule will begin on August 11:00 and end on August 31. The curfew will take effect from 7 PM to 5:00 AM Mondays to Fridays, 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM on Saturdays, and 2:00 PM to 5:00 AM on Sundays. The country has chosen to gradually tighten restrictions to give businesses and consumers room to adjust.
“We have analyzed how we implemented measures in the past and have heard the concerns, criticisms and suggestions of our stakeholders who have said that the implementation of tighter measures steeply sometimes causes congestion and panic,” he said.
Beaches that are not under management or control are now closed. The remaining beaches will now only be open from 6 AM to 4:00 PM on Monday through Saturday, and 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Sunday. Gyms, restaurants, zoos, and bars must operate at 50% capacity with social distancing enforced, while clubs are completely closed. Weddings and churches are capped at 50 attendees, and public events are limited to 30 persons. “No movement days” are to come if the number of cases does not improve.
“In fact, no movement days, if the numbers do not show signs of improving, will probably come two weeks from now. So we are gradually easing in tighter measures so that people can prepare and have enough time to adjust their scheduling and so forth,” he said.
The Caribbean island, however, is still open to tourists. All travelers ages 12 and up must show proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular (PCR, NAA, RNA) or Antigen test taken no more than three days before arrival, and fill out a Travel Authorization form due seven days prior to departure. Until August 31, 2021, non-Jamaican citizens who have been to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, India or Trinidad & Tobago within 14 days of their trip will not be admitted. Tourists will stay in the island’s “Resilient Corridors,” which has a strictly enforced set of protocols and standards. Still, they can leave the hotel to visit any tourist attraction that is a Covid-19 Resilient tourist attraction licensed by the Jamaica Tourist Board.
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Taku Kondo is here to help you forage your own fresh coastal food
On his YouTube channel Outdoor Chef Life, Taku Kondo is the paragon of a California adventurer, foraging for spiky purple sea urchin in tide pools and preparing eel and crab sushi for an oceanside picnic. The 30-year-old sushi chef chronicles his foraging adventures across the United States and beyond—and he’s found an audience that relishes learning how to eat seafood sustainably, straight from the ocean to your plate.
Kondo launched his project back in May of 2018, way before a global pandemic altered life as we know it, while working at Hinata, an upscale sushi restaurant in San Francisco. Spending his weekends foraging around the city, he eventually resolved to quit his job and forage full time — if he hit 200,000 subscribers on Youtube. He reached his goal in 2019 and, today, Outdoor Chef Life, which has 517,000 subscribers, is Kondo’s main professional focus.
“I go out in nature, I go fishing and foraging on the coast and in the woods and harvest what is around,” explains Kondo. “I then create a dish using those ingredients.” Dishes he’s prepared on his channel include a colorful seafood paella, a spicy lingcod sandwich and a kelp burger, all cooked with ingredients sourced directly from the ocean and forests he’s visiting — and usually cooked on site too (rather than in a professional or home kitchen).
In the age of social media and the always online generation, live footage of folks sourcing their own ingredients and cooking them on camera isn’t an original concept. But it’s the scope of Kondo’s videos that sets him apart from the rest. Kondo sheds light on the cooking process in its entirety: the catching of the fish, the filleting and the cooking, all the while showcasing the areas perfect for foraging, which mainly consist of California’s coast but also include Hawaii, Japan and Thailand.
Photo: Taku Kondo
Most recently, the chef visited Alaska, where he’s been for a month. “I converted a sprinter van into a little RV, I put a kitchen and a bathroom and a bed in there and [drove] it to Alaska,” he says.
Kondo credits his success on Youtube to his expertise as a chef. “A big part of my videos is the cooking portion so being a sushi chef and having those skills really took my videos to the next level,” he says. “People don’t realize the potential of what a fresh ingredient can do. [The ingredients I use] are not from the store. They’re all right here in front of us and we can turn them into a dish that would be considered for a menu in a restaurant and that is what people love about my videos. They see what is possible.”
Kondo’s interest in natural ingredient sourcing was sparked by a reading of The Bay Area Forager, by Mia Andler and Kevin Feinstein, which he delved into while in college at San Francisco State. Among the tricks of the trade is the acknowledgement that where you go affects where you eat, which is why Kondo’s selection of destinations is of utmost importance.
”I select areas based on what is available there and what I can harvest,” he explains. “My main focus is on coastal areas [where I can find] seafood and shellfish.”
Once he arrives in a certain city, he relies on the local community and his YouTube fanbase to tell him about the best places to go fishing and more.
“Every time I go somewhere and post it on Instagram or Youtube, people reach out in that area to let me know they live there and I should go fishing here or there,” he says.
Those followers also tend to chime in on Kondo’s travel plans, suggesting where he should consider visiting next. For now, New Zealand remains his dream stop.
“It would be an amazing place to go to because I love sea urchins and they have a ton of it there,” he says. “Anybody from New Zealand that comments on my videos tells me how big the sea urchins are there.”
Photo: Taku Kondo
That’s the other thing about Outdoor Chef Life: it’s not just about foraging and food, but also about traveling. When watching Kondo’s videos, one can’t help but start day-dreaming about day trips to coastal California or Hawaii, vacations peppered by foraging trips that can mirror the ones taken by Kondo on camera. The chef has been able to marry two passions that people around the world share: traveling and eating, simultaneously educating us on the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly cooking techniques.
Of course, that changed in the past year, when Kondo himself wasn’t able to travel in a world plagued by COVID-19—but he hopes that will soon change, especially given his new RV.
“I hope I can pry people to get out,” he says. “When you go out and harvest your own food, you become more knowledgeable about the environment and start caring more about these areas.”
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Rafting Utah’s winding, crimson Cataract Canyon is the trip of a lifetime
“You ready? I’m going to try to get us to hit that hole head on so we get the biggest ride,” Zia says with a laugh from the back of our two-person, inflatable kayak as she steers us towards roller coaster waves on Cataract Canyon in Utah. We are on the last stretch of rapids here, on day five of a six-day, nearly 100-mile wilderness river trip through Canyonlands National Park.
“I’ll try to remember to keep paddling, you try not to flip us,” I respond from the front. I’m the motor, she’s in charge of steering.
“I think it would be kinda fun to flip,” Zia retorts. Today is her nineteenth birthday, and she is in training to be a guide with OARS, the whitewater rafting company that is leading this once-in-a-lifetime backcountry trip.
Zia and I don’t end up flipping, but we hit the hole head-on and a few more in quick succession after it. It’s enough to get my adrenaline pumping, and my dopamine flowing.
It took us three days of floating and paddling on flat water to reach Cataract Canyon and its 14 miles of rapids. At high water, these are some of the biggest, baddest rapids in the country. Even in low water, which is what I’m rafting, the trip is still a wild adventure.
Planning your own trip to Cataract Canyon
Photo: James Kaiser for OARS
You can run Cataract Canyon in as little as three days, but that requires motoring most of the flat stretches. It doesn’t give you time to take in the deeply crimson rock walls, buttes, and towers that comprise Canyonlands National Park — scenery that can only be witnessed from the river.
Instead, we recommend a six-day journey. This gives you enough time to unwind, to hike up side canyons towards sites of ancient petroglyphs, and to get into the vibe of sleeping under the stars and spending the days paddling leisurely on a SUP board or swimming lazily down the Colorado River. It’s an ideal way to lose track of time and make new friends.
Numerous outfitters run Cataract Canyon rafting trips, and choosing the right one, especially if you opt for a longer trip, is important. I went with OARS based on rave reviews from friends, who said the OARS guides were not just excellent at running boats through walls of whitewater, but also at cooking and entertaining. OARS is also dedicated to responsible travel and stewardship of the rivers they run.
I was not disappointed by my choice.
Good food, good tunes, and unexpectedly good views
Photo: James Kaiser for OARS
Considering the temperatures soared above 100 degrees for the first half of the trip, it was beyond impressive that on the last night on the river they were grilling steaks and had a pitcher of ice for cocktails. The food throughout the trip was high-quality, varied and also highly specialized for every kind of diet.
Beyond cooking, the guides had more tricks up their sleeves. Dave was a singer who also played guitar and he put on almost nightly concerts. He even carried his guitar up a slot canyon hike to play for us when we reached a shady alcove. Having listened to live music at the Red Rocks amphitheater near my Denver home, I found these canyon acoustics equally impressive.
Nights are spent camping. Where you’ll camp changes with water level and the campsites are first-come, first-served. Each night after arriving you’ll help the guides unload the boats and pitch your tent. OARs carries super-comfy air and foam sleeping mats known as paco pads. During the day they are turned into couch seating on some of the boats, but at night each guest has one to sleep on. Pair it with your own air mattress for the ultimate in camping comfort. (You’ll receive a what-to-pack guide before your trip).
Guides will also set up “the groover,” which is their portable river toilet system. Pooping in the wilderness is a lot more posh than one would expect; and the river is kept free of solid human waste. You’ll have a proper toilet seat on top of an ammunition box. Guides go to great lengths to ensure not only privacy but also excellent views: The scene from our groover set facing the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers was better than nearly any hotel toilet I’ve sat on.
Best time to go, depending on the thrill you wantPhoto: James Kaiser for OARS
Although it is impossible to predict exactly how high the river level will be at the time you book your trip, the earlier in the season you go, the greater the opportunity for monster waves and world-record-making rapids. When running above 25,000 cubic feet per second, Cataract Canyon’s rapids are considered some of the most intense commercially run Class V whitewater in the world.
The river drops 30 feet in less than a mile at one point, and on rapids like Little Niagara and Satan’s Gut the waves can be up to 30-feet high. Cataract’s signature rapids are The Big Drops. These are three distinct drops that at max flow become one giant wall of water that feels like riding a rollercoaster on speed.
High water doesn’t happen every year. It requires good snowfall in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and Wyoming’s Wind River Range, but when the Colorado River is raging you will not be paddling yourself. You’ll ride the rapids in a boat oared by your guide or a motorized craft known as a J-rig and likely be holding on for dear life.
For the highest water levels you’ll want to try to book in May or early June. Although seasons can last longer, when I hit the river in late June this year, it had already dropped to almost its lowest flow level, around 5,000 cubic feet per second.
Running Cataract in high water is a crazy rush for sure, but lower river levels bring their own fun. With less flow, you have more options for how to ride the rapids, including the inflatable kayak I took. A paddle boat, where you row as a team with a guide, is also brought on lower water trips. This is a great way to add a little more thrill without as much risk of swimming through some big waves. OARS makes an effort to swap out crafts as much as possible, so even in a group of 19 we didn’t end up fighting over which boat to be in.
What to expect on your trip of a lifetime
Photo: James Kaiser for OARS
The night before your Cataract Canyon rafting trip departs you’ll gather at the OARS warehouse in Moab for a pre-trip briefing. This is when you’ll meet the rest of the group and learn about what types of watercraft will be floating downstream with you. You’ll also be told what time to return in the morning (usually around 7:00 AM) and given three dry bags to pack your gear into.
It’s about an hour drive from the warehouse to the put-in at Potash and, after a quick safety briefing, you’ll get on the river. The first day everything moves slowly. The river is languid, the sun usually bright and you’ll heat up quickly. It takes a little adjusting to the leisurely pace of life and to figuring out the vibe of your group. By the time you reach camp that evening you’ll notice exactly how relaxed you are feeling and how weirdly freeing it is to not be able to check your email or social media.
For the first three days you’ll float southwest for 47 miles — although what time you hit the rapids and how fast you go through them depends on water levels — before reaching the confluence with the Green River. Here you enter the 46-mile long Cataract Canyon, which has around 14 miles of whitewater. As water levels continue to drop in Lake Powell due to drought, more rapids emerge. After the final rapid, it’s back to flat water until the take out at Hite Point at the northern end of Lake Powell.
But don’t expect the adventure to be over quite yet. The last thrill ride awaits in getting back to Moab. Instead of driving 3.5 hours, you’ll hop in a small plane for a 30-minute scenic flight back. The pilots fly you up along the river so you can see the route you took from above including all Canyonland National Park’s different districts. As someone who doesn’t like to fly, I surprised myself by enjoying this flight. Seeing just how far we’d traveled on the rafts was a pretty momentous experience that left me a little teary eyed.
Back at the warehouse in Moab, it’s time to say good-bye. After spending six days with a group of strangers who are forced to interact with one another, you quickly become a river family with your own set of inside jokes and memories no one else will experience in quite the same way. In a world where we are so often interacting remotely, making IRL friends and having meaningful conversations is an experience I will treasure for years to come.
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E-cargo bikes could make urban transit more efficient and eco-friendly
This is the Climate Win, the most positive sustainability news around the world every week.
This week’s Climate Win is all about e-bikes. Not just any e-bikes, however, as we aren’t here to repeat ourselves. Today we’re celebrating a very specific type of electric bicycle: the e-cargo bike, which you may be seeing more of on the streets of your city in the near future. That’s because a new report from Promise, a UK-based non-profit working towards environmental solutions, just released a detailed report on how cargo bikes are on the rise in London and elsewhere as an efficient, eco-friendly means of moving goods about an urban area.
The study was built around GPS data from the ride-sharing app Pedal Me, which utilized human-powered cargo bikes as a ride-sharing and delivery solution rather than cars or vans. It found that over the course of 98 days, Pedal Me kept 3,896 Kg of CO2 and over 5.5 kg of NOx out of the atmosphere, “showing that cargo bikes can serve their customers better than a van without generating many of the externalities currently associated with urban freight.”
Researchers involved in the study believe that cargo bikes could be adopted by more urban areas to offset a portion of delivery van and ride-sharing traffic that clogs up roads and curb space. Even as delivery van fleets electrify in the coming years, issues stemming from their tendency to cause accidents — as evidenced by the report — and the space they occupy on roads can be offset by the use of cargo bikes. The study even found that cargo bikes are faster than vans in making deliveries in many circumstances, particularly in high-traffic and densely populated areas.
What’s more, e-cargo bikes aren’t purely for commercial transport. British bicycle company Raleigh now has a line of e-cargo bikes that are designed for families. These can be used for grocery runs, lugging sporting equipment to the park and back, or simply taking a Saturday morning cruise. This is zero-carbon, yes, and the additional win is purely stylistic: These bikes look far hipper than minivans ever could. Family transit just got way cooler, in addition to being more eco-friendly.
More climate wins this weekPoliticians, activists, and Indigenous peoples are coming together in the Northwest to save struggling salmon in the Snake and Salmon Rivers. This looks to include the removal of four dams on the Snake River, and could be one of the biggest bipartisan and cross-sector environmental victories of this century.
A major infrastructure bill cleared the US Senate this week, which includes big funding for EV chargers and other environmental progress in another example of bipartisan progress. A major budget resolution is next — which won’t be bipartisan but, if it passes, would fund the biggest federal-led climate initiatives in our nation’s history across the transportation and energy sectors.
We close this week with an easy way for travelers to Hawaii to support sustainable agriculture. Matador and The Hawaiian Islands partnered to create this detailed list of where to buy local produce on the islands to support local farmers, and why it’s so important to do so.
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Book this luxurious stay in the heart of downtown Asheville for just $149
We hope you love the spaces and stays 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. See our full Advertiser Disclosure here.
Asheville, NC, is known for its breweries, modern eateries, and live music. Each of these amenities is much better when you can walk there. Such is the case at the AC Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown, where your central location on Broadway eliminates the need to identify a fresh parking space each time you want to go somewhere. For example, upwards of one dozen breweries and taprooms are located within a fifteen-minute walk of the hotel. The same is true for dining. From the hotel you can dine Mexican at Mountain Madre, Indian at Mela, chic American at Rhubarb, or casual at Pack’s Tavern, all within a short walk. You can even sample the city’s best dim sum at Red Ginger.
Photo: Marriott.com
Of course, downtown Asheville hotels are in no short supply. What makes this Travelzoo deal so incredible is that it saves you 45 percent off the normal room rate without stripping away any of the on-site comforts that the AC Hotels are known for. The rooftop bar and restaurant, Cappella on 9, offers the city’s best cocktail-hour views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Your room will be crisp and modern, retaining Asheville’s mountain-metro vibe while offering the streamlined comforts and rewards perks of all Bonvoy properties. And because the best rates are offered during the week, it’s important to note that the hotel’s WiFi is lightning fast. If you want to use your laptop outside your room, the lobby and front terrace make for cozy work spots as well.
Here are a few top attractions in and around downtown Asheville, all of which are within walking distance of the AC Hotel:
South Slope Brewing DistrictThe art galleries of Biltmore AveAsheville Museum of ScienceThe famous Chicken Alley MuralDid we mention the property itself is outfitted with locally-inspired art?
This deal is fully refundable if you decide not to travel, but it will sell out. Book now to get this incredible rate from $149 on weeknights and $329 on weekends, a 48 percent savings off normal rates.
Stay near the Biltmore Estate for just $94
Photo: Brookstone Lodge/Facebook
If you want to stay in a hotel near the Biltmore Estate, we recommend the Brookstone Lodge both for its convenience — the Biltmore Estate is a short drive away — and for this low rate of $94 per night. The Brookstone is comfortable and modern. It has an indoor pool. And it is nearby to many other popular attractions including the Cathedral of All Souls and the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. If historic sights are the theme of your Asheville trip, snag this deal before it’s gone.
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How to plan a family trip to Alaska
Every year, over two million people visit Alaska — many of them as families. They come to explore the country’s most epic landscapes; to bond under the northern lights; to learn about the different Alaska Native cultures around the state; to have the kind of vacation the entire family will remember forever.
It’s a little intimidating at first glance: Countless must-see places and must-have experiences are spread out across an area that could fit 19 smaller US states! With a destination this grand, how do you choose what to do, when to go, where to go, how to go? Ultimately, the decision-making will be up to you, but let’s start with the basics. Here’s how to plan your first trip to Alaska — which just might become an annual family affair.
Begin by choosing a season.
Photo: State of Alaska/Mark Kelley
From whale watching to northern lights chasing to red salmon running, there’s probably a specific activity that’s drawing you and the kids to Alaska. What is it, and when’s the best time to have that experience? Start there. Beyond that, here are some fundamentals to consider:
May–September: This is high season, with June–August seeing the most visitors. You can count on businesses being open and nature being at its most accessible come summer. Think walking the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage, ziplining through the trees in Ketchikan, kayaking with the otters in Prince William Sound, or gallivanting around the fun and educational Pioneer Park in Fairbanks. And with so much extra daylight, it becomes possible to fit more into your day: tack on a short hike after your whale watching cruise in the Kenai Fjords, or spend that extra hour admiring the totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park.
October–April: In the fall and winter months, there will be fewer visitors, more budget-friendly options, and the reward of a more uncommon Alaska experience. While some businesses close, a lot is still possible. Chase the northern lights on a guided excursion out of Fairbanks; visit the Western Arctic community of Nome, endpoint of the famed Iditarod; go snowmachining (aka snowmobiling) or dog sledding through the Interior backcountry; put smiles on the kids’ faces at the Santa Claus House in North Pole (just south of Fairbanks); or take the family skating at Anchorage’s Westchester Lagoon while you’re in town for the Fur Rendezvous Festival. Whatever kind of vacation you’re looking for, Alaska has it.
Tip: Questions about packing and climate? Here you go.
Then, base your trip around a particular region.
Photo: State of Alaska/Matt Hage
It’d be fantastic if you could see it all, but Alaska is one-fifth the size of the entire Lower 48. What are your top activities? Where can you find them? The answers will help you choose a home base and hone in on an itinerary for your trip. But — just to make sure you’re not missing out — here’s a little bit on Alaska’s five distinct regions and what they offer:
Home to the Iñupiat people, the Arctic is rich in history and provides a number of opportunities to explore Alaska Native culture and view the region’s magnificent wildlife. Expect 24 hours of sunlight in summer and some of the world’s best northern lights viewing opportunities mid-August through mid-April.The Interior is the heartland of Alaska, unfolding across vast tundra and up to the highest mountain peak in North America, Denali (meaning “The Great One” in Koyukon-Athabascan). This is also the home region of Fairbanks, Alaska’s third-largest city, where a host of activities — from gold panning to dog mushing to northern lights viewing — are possible.The Southwest includes wildlife-heavy destinations like the Kodiak Archipelago and Katmai National Park and Preserve, showcasing more than 240 bird species across its scenic hills and plains, where you’ll also have a chance to spot a grizzly or ten. The 1,000-mile-long chain of the Aleutian Islands makes this the state’s most expansive region (it extends all the way west to the International Date Line!)The Southcentral region, home to over half of the state’s population, is a one-of-a-kind, urban-meets-nature playground of fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing activities. From the streets of Anchorage to the rivers of the Kenai Peninsula, from the mountain-rimmed Mat-Su Valley to the glacier-studded Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, your options here are limitless.The Inside Passage claims some truly massive glaciers, lush islands, and an abundance of whales, porpoises, sea lions, and bald eagles. Family-friendly adventures like hiking, kayaking, fishing, glacier viewing, and wildlife tours abound here. The Inside Passage is also home to the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples, with plentiful opportunities for cultural education.Of course, you don’t have to choose just one region. How much time do you have?
Consider how you’ll get around.
Photo: cdrin/Shutterstock
Ultimately, you’ll want to choose a mode of transportation that’s convenient, flexible, and efficient for your family and itinerary. For many, this means renting a vehicle, as the benefits of having your own set of wheels while exploring the country’s largest state are plentiful. You’ll be able to cover more ground while also lugging around a family’s worth of layered clothing and souvenirs. If throwing camping into the mix sounds appealing, Alaska is the ideal place to rent an RV for that classic family road trip.
Here are just a couple examples of what you could do with a rental car or camper:
Head south from Anchorage, around the Turnagain Arm, and onto the Kenai Peninsula. Drive down to Seward, where the kids will love exploring the wildlife exhibits at the Alaska SeaLife Center — follow that up with a whale watching tour to see some of those same animals in the wild. Next, retrace your route back to the Sterling Highway and take it all the way to the Homer Spit. Here you’ll find more wildlife tour opportunities, as well as fishing charters and water taxis to points of interest around Kachemak Bay. (Don’t miss the artist enclave of Halibut Cove.)Serious road tripping families should consider the circle drive that starts in Anchorage and proceeds through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (the longest tunnel in North America!) to Whittier. From there, it’s a Marine Highway ferry to Valdez and its magnificent waterfalls, followed by a potential side trip over to McCarthy and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. When you’re ready, take the Richardson Highway north and enjoy the views of the Alaska Range as you make your way to Fairbanks. Finally, your route back to Anchorage can include a stop in Denali National Park and Preserve. This circuit is eminently doable yet might just be the best family drive you ever take.Of course, it’s not essential that you rent a car for your trip to Alaska with the kids. Travel tour groups are always an option, as are ferries, the Alaska Railroad, regional airlines, buses, and bush plane charters. In fact, in some cases a bush plane will be your primary method of transportation.
Let Alaska cater to your family’s needs and abilities.
Photo: Image Source Trading Ltd/Shutterstock
Sure, you and the kids could heli-ski from a remote mountain lodge, go for an epic hike in Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, or whitewater raft the Nenana River near Denali National Park and Preserve. Alaska certainly caters to those who seek adventure. But if you’re traveling with younger children, fear not — Alaska is just as much for you as it is the thrill-seeker. “Adventure” comes in many forms, after all.
Go on a wildlife cruise to view orcas and humpback whales, visit the sled dog kennels in Denali, enjoy a mellow but scenic hike in Hatcher Pass, pan for gold in Girdwood or Fairbanks, or pedal through the Tongass National Forest in the Southeast. Another option to consider is basing yourself out of a lodge — this eliminates the need to hop from hotel to hotel but still gives you access to a wide variety of outdoor activities, conveniently arranged through your accommodations.
Your trip to Alaska with the kids will be a rush, no doubt, but you get to decide what kind and how fast-paced.
Make it educational.
Photo: State of Alaska/Matt Hage
The entire state is a living classroom — use it to your advantage! Take this chance to teach the kids about “Leave No Trace” principles in the wilderness; show them rare wildlife in their natural habitats and at marine or conservation centers; talk to them about Alaska’s melting glaciers and permafrost after stopping by the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center; take advantage of junior ranger programming at one of Alaska’s many national parks. And, of course, encourage the kids to ask questions!
From talking to local Alaskans to visiting sites like the Alaska Native Heritage Center, there are a number of interactive, eye-opening ways to teach your kids about the importance of sustainability, of working with and learning from Indigenous groups, of the need to protect our planet and the life it harbors. Simply being in Alaska is an opportunity to discover and grow — for everyone.
Factor in the time difference and hours of daylight.
Photo: Juancat/Shutterstock
Alaska is so itself, it’s in a time zone all its own: one hour earlier than Pacific. You’ll want to factor in any time difference (likely one to four hours, depending on where you’re arriving from) and consider how that change can feel exaggerated given the season in which you’re traveling. This goes double if you’re visiting Alaska with small kids. In the winter, the sun rises late and sets early; in the summer, it can feel like the sun never sets — and in some parts of the state, it doesn’t!
This isn’t a hindrance to your fun; if anything, it’ll add to it. In summer, you can attend special activities like the Midnight Sun Game (a 10:30pm baseball game) or the Midnight Sun Festival, both in Fairbanks. In winter, there’s night skiing and constant opportunities to catch the northern lights.
It’s important to keep things in perspective, though. When it comes to epic family travel destinations, Alaska is so much closer to home. Direct flights abound from most major US cities and are only a few hours in duration.
Leave things to do for your next trip.
Photo: Troy Larson/Shutterstock
If there’s only one thing you remember, make it this: You don’t have to stress about trying to fit everything into your first trip to Alaska with the kids. And to be honest, you can’t. But the adventures you have will lead to new ideas and fresh curiosities, so that the next time you visit, you and the family can experience a different region or season and draw up a completely different Alaska itinerary to remember forever.
The post Alaska with kids: How to plan a family trip appeared first on Matador Network.
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