The 822 foot Mt. Soledad is known for great hiking and cycling trails, impressive views from the top, and a popular memorial at its summit. The Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial is marked by a massive cross, a landmark that has been the source of much controversy in San Diego. Nonetheless, like the cross at the top of Mount Helix in Eastern San Diego, the cross that tops the summit of Mt. Soledad is visible from many areas in Northern San Diego, including Clairemont Mesa and Pacific Beach. The Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial is considered one of the most unique in the country, and features 3,300 plaques honoring military veterans from all American branches.
Parking and public transportation at Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
Two primary parking lots are located along La Jolla Scenic Drive, both of which are very close to the memorial itself. Parking is plentiful, and finding a spot is not likely to be an issue.
Best and worst time to go to Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
The memorial itself is open from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Daylight hours are recommended for hiking the outdoor trails or sightseeing.
Admission to Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
Admission to the Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial is free thanks to donations given to the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association. For info on joining the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, click here.
Must see and do at Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
- Explore the memorial, including the giant cross and the various plaques.
- Try some photography; there are phenomenal views in every direction.
- Start at Kate O. Sessions Park and hike to Mt. Soledad for one of many hikes in the area.
Other places to visit near Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
The Marine Room
With a memorable blue seahorse for a logo, this nearby restaurant specializes in French cuisine. La Jolla is among the most affluent areas around San Diego, so expect the prices to reflect that.
Kellog Park
For much more of a beach setting, check out the nearby Kellog Park. With a large grass field, boardwalk, and room for BBQ's, Kellog Park is well worth the short drive from Mt. Soledad.
Barbarella
Known for a cozy atmosphere and unique options like the Pizza Bismark for breakfast, this local restaurant has a daily seasonal selections and even a menu for dogs.
Insider tip for visitors to Mt. Soledad Veteran's Memorial
Mt. Soledad was the final home of notable children's author, Dr. Seuss. Also, the giant cross has been a source of controversy since 1989, primarily because many people see the giant religious symbol on government property as an infringement on the separation of church and state.
Author's bio: After a seven year career in the US Navy, Nicholas Napier completed his MBA and settled in California. He's published over 40 articles as the San Diego Fitness Trends Examiner, and regularly contributes as a freelance writer to various companies.
Some visitors to the Statue of Liberty arrive in search of the first thing their ancestors laid eyes on upon landing in the New World. Others come to fulfill a fascination with an image so recognizable, she has achieved something like celebrity status. Whatever the purpose, Lady Liberty will not disappoint. As one of America's most iconic images, a pilgrimage to this symbol of liberty and peace is a must.
Parking and public transportation to the Statue of Liberty
Statue Cruises is the official ferry service provider. Ferries depart from Battery Park, which is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. Parking is limited so driving isn't recommended. Tickets to depart from Liberty State Park in New Jersey are also available, where paid parking spaces are plentiful.
Best and worst time to go to the Statue of Liberty
Winter weekdays, barring major holidays, draw the fewest number of tourists. Prepare for long lines at the ferry terminal during summer months; wait times can stretch to over an hour. If you're set on visiting during the summer, try to book tickets for as early in the morning as possible.
Admission to the Statue of Liberty
Three options are offered: Reserve Only, Pedestal, or Crown. Crown access typically sells out up to three months in advance. Same-day pedestal access may be available at the ticket office in Battery Park, but online advance reservations are highly recommended. Adult admission begins at $18, and all ticket options include ferry service to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, and audio tours of both places.
Must see/do at the Statue of Liberty
The climb to the Statue's crown involves a narrow, winding staircase with a grand total of 354 steps. This may not be suitable for every visitor. The pedestal, however, should not be missed. Pedestal access includes entrance to the Liberty Island museum, where visitors can view the Statue's original torch, and peruse exhibits that explain her conception, engineering, and delicate transport from France to America. The pedestal's observation deck offers gorgeous views of New York's harbor and skyline, and unique vantage points of the Statue's imposing 151-foot height.
Other places to visit near the Statue of Liberty
Battery Park's waterfront promenade is a scenic place to relax. For those who wish to continue on the trail of history, head to the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, which is now home to the National Museum of the American Indian. The famous Charging Bull of Wall Street is also a short walk away.
Insider tip for visitors to the Statue of Liberty
Plan well ahead for this one. Buy online tickets as far in advance as possible, print your tickets before arriving at the ferry terminal, and get there at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for the airport style security screening. The Statue's busiest days come with a dose of chaos, so be infinitely patient and ask the nice folks manning the lines for help if you're unsure of anything.
Author's bio: Michele DeBella is a freelance writer based in New York City, where her ancestors saw the Statue of Liberty as they began their new lives in the New World.
The Liberty Bell is a Historic National Landmark drawing thousands of visitors year-round. The Liberty Bell, with its famous crack, was first called the State House bell in the 1700s. It is the national symbol of life and liberty. This is why Philadelphia is often referred to as the "nation's cradle of liberty."
Parking and transportation at the Liberty Bell
There is metered street parking all around the Liberty Bell for people traveling around the city by car.
The closest and most popular parking garage is the Independence Visitor Center underground garage.
For public transportation options, visitors can take SEPTA's Market- Frankford line to 5th Street and walk one block. For travelers coming from New Jersey, the PATCO line's 8th Street stop is a four block walk.
Best and worst times to go to the Liberty Bell
Visitors who love a family-friendly party should visit the Liberty Bell on the fourth of July. There are special events planned all day and night. Visitors can also walk a few blocks to see spectacular fireworks at Penn's Landing.
The worst time to visit the Liberty Bell is in February, based on weather in Philadelphia. Frigid temperatures and snow can make for canceled flights and possible street closures.
Admission to the Liberty Bell
Admission to the Liberty Bell is free.
Must see/do at the Liberty Bell
Travelers to the Liberty Bell will see how it is now located in a visitor's center. This center has many interactive exhibits explaining the history of the bell followed by a National Park Ranger providing a live history lesson right under the bell.
The Liberty Bell is situated on Independence Mall where visitors can stop and visit the President's House for free right next door. This outdoor exhibit focuses on the history of slavery in Philadelphia and by the founding fathers.
Other places to visit near the Liberty Bell
The National Constitution Center is two blocks north of the Liberty Bell and has free general admission. Certain special exhibits charge admission fees.
Other places to visit near the Liberty Bell
The National Constitution Center is two blocks north of the Liberty Bell and has free admission except for certain special exhibits.
The Benjamin Franklin Museum is located two blocks east of the Liberty Bell. This interactive museum focuses on the many contributions Benjamin Franklin made to society. It is perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum does charge a small fee for admission.
The City Tavern was founded in 1773 and is a big favorite for visitors to Philadelphia. Servers are dressed in colonial outfits, and the menu reflects the cuisine of 18th Century Colonial America.
Insider tip for visitors to the Liberty Bell
Most visitors to Philadelphia want to have a cheesesteak or an Italian hoagie. Not too many people know there is a famous Italian sandwich spot called Campo's Deli just three blocks from the Liberty Bell. Campos's offers other sandwiches with a Philadelphia flare. But visitors looking for cheese whiz on their steak need to say, "Wit Whiz".
Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist and digital media specialist for 20 years.
Named after a 19th-century plantation that was once located nearby, Poverty Point in Epps, Louisiana, is made up of five mounds, six concentric semi-elliptical ridges and a central plaza, all said to be over 3,000 years old. Artifacts recovered suggest these hand-built earthworks were primarily used for living, ceremonies and trade since Bayou Macon is close by. The 400-acres site has received many designations, including National Historic Landmark in 1962, Smithsonian Affiliate in 2010, and most recently UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 becoming Louisiana's first World Heritage Site.
Must see and must do at Poverty Point
Guided tram tours are offered daily. This is the best way to become familiar with the lay of the land and learn the history. The museum inside the visitors center tells the story fo those who inhabited the area throughout recovered artifacts. To further enhance your visit, check out Poverty Point's event calendar for workshops or events typically happening on the weekends. For those who are a little more active, there is a 2.6-mile hiking trail.
Best and worst time to go to Poverty Point
The site is open daily, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day). If you are looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the weekdays or weekends when no event is scheduled. For those sensitive to heat, know that the tram is not climate-controlled. While there is somewhat of a breeze when it's moving, you want to be comfortable; therefore, it might be best to plan your trip for in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Admission to Poverty Point
Admission is $4 per person; free for seniors (ages 62 and over) and children, ages 12 and under.
Wildlife at Poverty Point
The site is an excellent area for bird watching and spotting. Different species of songbirds are found nesting here in the winter such as the Wood Thrush, the Hooded Warbler, Red-headed woodpecker and others. You can download a comprehensive state birding guide at Atchafalaya National Heritage Area's website.
Insider tip at Poverty Point
To get the most out of your visit, do the guided tram tour first and then explore the museum.
Author's bio: Apryl Chapman Thomas enjoys discovering places to visit in the South during her travels. She believes that best places are the lesser known places. She is the feature writer for Southern Hospitality Magazine Traveler.
