Yosemite National Park, California

With its breath taking views, Yosemite National Park attracts thousands or tourists, campers and hikers each year. For me, driving up and down these mountains itself was an adventure. The drive has several vista points for quick stops. Driving up the mountains, you can see tall, black, half burnt trees from forest fires.

This national park is famous for its rock formations and waterfalls. To view any of the waterfalls, expect to take a walk between half to one mile. Even if you are not planning on camping, it is better to take mosquito repellents, sunscreen lotions, anti itch cream and lots of water.This national park offers a variety of out door activities like backpacking, camping, skiing, fishing, hiking, rafting etc. Some activities like hiking half dome needs a permit. Check the website for weather updates, alerts and latest information.

Lombard Street, San Francisco, California

The Lombard street, famously known as the crooked street with its hairpin beds over a span of block is one of San Francisco's famous landmarks. Get down a tram at the starting of the intersection of Lombard street and walk down the steps. Or drive till Lombard street and if you choose to stop for pictures, street parking is available too.

Lombard street is a one way street and you can only drive down the hairpin bends. If you are wondering why the car in the picture is going UP, you are definitely mistaken. They are driving down. IN REVERSE ..... I would have never thought of that !!! Straight road from Lombard street goes to Coit tower.

Coit Tower, San Francisco, California

Coit Tower stands tall on the Telegraph hill, offers nice views of the city, Bay Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Islands. Parking is free but very limited. There is an option of taking public transport from Fisherman's Wharf.

Coit Tower can be reached by a scenic trail via Filbert street. Elevator access is available to the top of the tower and the tickets can be purchased in the gift shop at the bottom of the tower.

The top of the tower has three arch shaped windows in each direction that offers 360 degree view of the city.

Coit tower offers guided tours and the tour of the murals inside the tower. Don't miss THE famous Lombard street nearby!!!

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

The Golden Gate Bridge is one the most photographed bridges in the world. Standing tall between the San Francisco bay and The Pacific Ocean, this is San Francisco's must see monument.With the bright orange paint, and ocean views, a sunny day gives the picturesque views of the bridge.

Numerous vista points are available on either sides of the bridge for tourists to get pictures. Visitors can use the side walk from March through November to cross the bridge.

Wonders of Flight, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Wonders of Flight is a tethered hot air balloon ride. Once you board the hot air balloon, it raises up to 400 feet in the air . The whole activity takes around 10-15 minutes.

 Enjoy the views of Pigeon Forge from 400 feet.

Gatlinburg Sky Lift, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg Sky View is a top Gatlinburg attraction with beautiful views of Smokey Mountains. This chairlift is a fun way to get to the top of the mountain. The chair lift takes you to the top of mountain at 1800 feet. A small gift shop at the top has good collection of souvenirs and snacks. 

Spend as much time you want on the top. Because, this place have the best views around.

A Day in Nashville, Tennessee, USA

Centennial park, a beautiful retreat in the middle of downtown Nashville. Can’t miss the real size replica of Parthenon which is also Nashville's art museum. A replica of Greek goddess Athena inside the Parthenon. Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit the park. With spring blossoms and beautiful summer gardens, the park looks alive.

A quick stop at Gaylord Opryland Resort is a good addition to the trip. This is a small upscale indoor town. Literally!!! Plan to spend a cool winter day indoors. Entry is free. There is free parking available with in short walk. 

A big dome covers the tropical themed resort and offers guests with choice of dining, shopping and free entertainment.

A boat ride indoor is fun activity for both kids and adults. The sound of waterfalls and the sight of colorful fountains is appealing to spend a relaxing afternoon.

Kelley's Island, Ohio

Kelley's Island, located in Lake Erie is the most beautiful island around.With it's clear blue water, rental homes, private beaches and less crowd, this island attracts families with kids in summer.Kelleys island ferry boat  from Marblehead, Ohio is the easiest way to get to Kelleys Island. One way price is 10$ per adult. Note that there is extra 10$ for parking if you wish to park your car and ride the ferry. The ferry prices are bit steep compared to Put-in-Bay. But it is worth to rent a golf cart in the Island as it has beautiful views that can be better enjoyed in a golf cart ride.Make a quick stop at the Glacier Grooves state memorial. These 5000 year old glacier grooves carved in limestone bed by the advancing glaciers deserves a visit.

Take a quick drive through the road that runs around the island.  Make a quick stop at West Bay. Rocky shores and blue water makes an awesome view.

Spend an afternoon in the small sandy beach of Kelley's Island State Park. Other than kayaking, there are no other activities in this island. The downtown is cute and neat with local shops.

Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Put-in-Bay is a good summer weekend get away located in Lake Erie.  This island is smaller but busier compared to Kelly's island.

Miller's Ferry from Catawaba island  is the easiest way to reach Put-in-Bay.  It costs 7$ per adult one way or You can take a car for extra 16$ one way. Golf carts are available for renting on the island for around 80$ for a four seater / day. On a busy day, it is better to rent a golf cart since parking is much easier. Boardwalk has variety of restaurants and activities including parasailing. 

Perry's Victory & International Peace Monument:

A flight of steps take you to the elevator and the elevator goes till the top of the monument.

Monument is in a beautiful park surrounded by water with beautiful views.

Take the cart and go for a ride around the island .  A helicopter ride on a sunny day over the island is a good choice too. 

Perry's Cave family fun center has lot of activities. I would suggest skipping the cave tour all together as it felt more like a tourist trap.

Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, Georgia

Georgia aquarium is rated no #1 by TripAdvisor in the US. With around 10 million fresh and marine water, Georgia aquarium attracts huge crowds. This is a must visit attraction in Atlanta. Purchase tickets online for a discounted price if you want to avoid wasting time in a mile long line for hours. 

Make sure to see the Dolphin and Sea Lion shows. Both shows are worth your ticket price. No videos/ pictures are allowed in the show. Dolphins show was brilliant and the Sea Lions were hilarious. It is amazing how the trainers communicate with these amazing creatures.

Watching these spectacular sea creatures through huge displays is arresting. Belugas, Otters and Penguins in cold water quest are awe-inspiring. Ocean voyager takes you through an acrylic tunnel which has huge whale sharks, stingrays and many other fish. Just sit in front of a big acrylic window and gaze at the magnificent creatures.

Lot of touch pools through out the aquarium and the staff are friendly. At the end, do not miss the colorful fish at coral reef.