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North America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

5 Best Tourist Attractions in Missoula, Montana

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5 Best Tourist Attractions in Missoula, Montana

The great city of Missoula sits near the edge of the western border of Montana and is approximately 45 miles from Utah. It’s the second-largest city in the state and sits along the Clark Fork River. It’s called the “Hub Of Five Valleys” due to its proximity to the Garnet Range, Rattlesnake Mountains, Sapphire Range, Bitterroot Mountains, and the Reservation Divide. Car rentals are popular, and with all of the scenic beauty surrounding Missoula, it has become one of the hottest destination spots for outdoor enthusiasts in Montana. Here are a few attractions you don’t want to miss when vacationing in Missoula. 

1 – Glacier National Park

Missoula

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/lake-mcdonald-glacier-national-park-1874263/

Glacier National Park is one of the most scenic natural wonders you can visit in the United States. The park is full of pristine lakes and colorful wildflowers that are a sight to see. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, it’s perfect for seasoned hikers and first-time tourists. Hikers can enjoy expansive views of the mountains and grassy mountain slopes and even see bighorn sheep and mountain goats grazing in the valley. 

If you’d like to see everything that Glacier National Park offers, take a drive on the Going To The Sun Road. You can drive from one end of the park to the other on this road in about two hours. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Glacier National Park. While driving along the road, you’ll see everything from pastoral valleys to distant glacial lakes and wildlife. One of the most popular attractions on the drive is Logan Pass which is 6,000 feet in elevation and features a breathtaking view. It’s one of the highest points you can travel to by car and is the entry point to the Hidden Lake and Highline Trail hiking trails. 

2 – Canyon River Golf Club

Missoula

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/golf-golf-course-5490886/

Canyon River Golf Club is a premier destination for professional and amateur golfers of all skill levels and ages. In 2010, 2015, and 2020, the Pacific Northwest PGA Championships took place at this prestigious club and attracted professional golfers from all over the globe. This well-maintained championship-level course features deep greenside bunkers, multi-tiered greens, tall grasses, pine trees, and tons of sandtraps. It’s a challenging course that’s fun to play and sure to please. 

After enjoying a round of golf, you can relax in The Fox Den to indulge in a wide variety of food and beverages or visit one of the local breweries just a stone’s throw away from Canyon River Golf Club. The Bayern Brewing Company, Conflux Brewing Company, and the Tamarack Brewing Company are all within a 15-minute drive from the club. If you’re a fan of golf and love finishing off the day with a cold one, this is a no-brainer. 

3 – Lolo National Forest 

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/caravan-camping-rv-campsite-camper-1468411/

The Lolo National Forest is home to the northern portion of the Sapphire Mountains. Within its two million acres of forest, you will see elk, moose, mountain goats, black bears, grizzly bears, timber wolves, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and many other types of wildlife. Bald-head eagles, golden eagles, and trumpeter swans reside here, and there are close to 30 different species of ducks. In total, Lolo National Forest has 300 species of birds, 20 different types of fish, and over 60 mammals inside its borders. 

If camping is something you enjoy, Lolo National Forest is home to the Seeley Lake Campground. At Seeley Lake, patrons can rent boats, canoes, and mountain bikes to explore the surrounding lakes and trails. It’s the perfect location for boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, and bird watching. This campground has modern facilities with restrooms that are handicap accessible and drinking water. At $20 per night, this campsite is very popular with people who enjoy RV camping and tent camping. Each camping site comes with a fire ring and picnic table, and you can park your vehicle right next to your site. 

4 – Montana Snow Bowl

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/skiing-girl-sun-snow-winter-ski-1723857/

For close to 60 years, the Montana Snow Bowl has attracted downhill and alpine skiers from all over the country. With its steep runs and vertical heights, skiers can expect one of the most exhilarating experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Located in the Lolo National Forest, the Montana Snow Bowl offers ski packages and lodging at the C’Mon Inn and Gelandesprung Lodge. 

At the C’Mon Inn, guests can enjoy hot tubs, swimming pools for the adults and kids, and a waterfall inside the tropical courtyard. These luxurious accommodations include suites with private jacuzzis, gas fireplaces, and complimentary breakfast. The Inn also features a game room, business center, fitness center, and free internet & WiFi. 

For a truly unique experience, you can book at the Gelandesprung Lodge. It has a European-style lodge that sits right at the bottom of the slope and features ski in and ski out capabilities. Shared and private baths are available, hot tubs, and kitchen facilities. If you’re frugal and looking to save some money, the discount lift tickets will make this a very affordable place to stay.

5 – Garnet Ghost Town

Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/garnet-ghost-town-montana-abandoned-3943047/

The town of Garnet has existed for more than two hundred years. Back in the 1800s, this was a place that miners migrated to with the dream of making life-changing profits by mining gold and other precious minerals. As the influx of miners increased, it became apparent that the free-floating goal did not exist in the amounts miners expected. Garnet’s infrastructure could not sustain that overwhelming growth and suffered the consequences. 

With the passing of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act in 1890, miners abandoned Garnet in mass for the more profitable mineral, silver. The government needed silver to mint coins and believed the act would boost the economy. But in 1893, that plan didn’t work out, and the price of silver dropped. As a result, there was a run on the United States gold reserve, and President Grover Cleveland repealed the act. 

The crash in silver drove miners back to Garnet to search for gold. When Garnet was booming, it had 13 saloons and 20 mines and was the epitome of the wild, wild west. But in 1912, the town was devastated by fire, and by 1940 Garnet was abandoned and became a ghost town. Garnet is a must-see if you’re a history buff or enjoy visiting once-in-a-lifetime attractions. 

The attractions listed in this article are just a few of the many gems that Missoula can offer to outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of history and culture. You can surf or kayak at the Clark Fork River, visit local breweries and vineyards, enjoy cultural icons such as the Wilma Theatre, the Missoula Art Museum, the Montana Natural History Center, or even take in a world-class symphony. Here in Missoula, you can discover a world you’ve never seen at an affordable price. 



Editor's Picks, North America

A Road Trip from Washington DC to New York

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A road trip from Washington DC to New York

Words: Len Rutledge    Images: Phensri Rutledge

Driving in the USA can be daunting or charming depending on where you are. Despite initial reservations, my wife and I found driving between two of the country’s major cities was no great problem.

Day 1 Washington DC to Lancaster 190 km

This morning we leave Washington DC on route to Lancaster. We skirt Baltimore then follow I-83 north for 90 minutes before exiting at York. By now we have entered a beautiful region of rolling hills, neatly cultivated farms, covered bridges, and towns with unusual names like Paradise, Intercourse, and Bird-in-Hand. This is the gorgeous Amish Country, also known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country, which immediately evokes feelings of nostalgia, respect, and curiosity.

The verdant countryside is laced with rural roads and we quickly find opportunities to meet Amish and Mennonites on farms that have opened their doors for commerce. There are historical sites, pretzel and chocolate factories, covered bridges, and bustling farmers’ markets. For those unimpressed by these attractions, there are amusement parks and outlet-mall shopping.

At the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau, we are given an excellent map and visitors’ guide to the region and a wealth of brochures. The Amish with their distinctive clothes and lifestyle are the big attraction in this region but we quickly learn they are not theme-park characters but hardworking people leading busy lives. They don’t drive cars or use electricity so there are 25,000 horse-drawn vehicles in the county. These tend to stick to quieter back roads, but you will certainly see many of them as you travel around.

The Amish Experience, on Route 340 in Intercourse offers three attractions that provide an authentic illustration of Amish life, past and present. Tickets for a 40-minute multimedia show, an interpretive tour of a contemporary-style Amish home, and a guided back-road bus tour may be purchased separately. We don’t do the bus tour but learn much about the lives of these interesting people. The final highlight of the day is dinner at a family-style restaurant with some local specialties.

washington

Day 2 Lancaster to Philadelphia 127 km

Today starts with a visit to the Amish Farm and House which is a historic 1805 farmhouse, furnished like a modern Amish house. The guide explains the Amish history, clothing, customs and culture as we move through the home. There is time to wander the six-hectare farm and see a wide variety of farm animals, historic barns, a covered bridge, the one-room schoolhouse and exhibits including an authentic tobacco stripping room and an original blacksmith shop.

Next, it’s back to Intercourse to visit the Kitchen Kettle Village where there are 45 local shops, restaurants and an inn in a village. The hub of activity around here is the kitchen where locals cook up sweets, fresh baked pie and cookies, and delicious canned goods like relish, salsa and pickles. We sample some pepper jam and shoo fly pie and agree that there is something special about Lancaster cooking. Amish and Mennonite owned-stores are closed on Sundays so visit here on other days.

Road US30 East heads towards Philadelphia. Much of this follows the route of the old Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike which when built in 1794 was the first toll road and best stone and gravel road in the country. This is not the fastest route but it is the most interesting as it goes through several small towns.

Traffic is heavy as we approach Philadelphia but we find our accommodation and decide we should walk rather than drive. This is the second largest city on the east coast of the United States but it is also one of the most historic in the nation. We are hungry so head to Reading Terminal Market, an enclosed public market opened in 1892. The former train shed has over one hundred merchants and we enjoy a healthy meal.

Day 3 Philadelphia

There is a designated Constitutional Walking Tour and it seems like a good idea to follow parts of it. The African American Museum is where we start but we leave somewhat disappointed. Fortunately, the National Constitution Centre, a well-done museum about the history of the USA and its Constitution, is more interesting. This naturally leads to the Independence Visitor Center where we learn about visiting Independence Hall and other sites in Independence National Historical Park.

Immediately south is the Liberty Bell Centre where historic documents and graphic images explore the facts and the myths surrounding the famous cracked Bell. Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were adopted, is the centrepiece of the Park.

We discover there are no tickets left for admission so we make do with looking around outside. Over the next few hours, we visit the Magnificent Carpenters Hall, Franklin Court, Christ Church, and Elfreth’s Alley, which is known as the oldest residential street in the USA.

As we return back along Arch Street towards our hotel, we stop off at the Betsy Ross House, the Arch Street Friends Meeting House and the Christ Church Burial Ground.

Day 4 Philadelphia to New York 155 km

Yesterday was all about old Philadelphia and we start today by driving through Society Hill a charming district with cobblestone streets said to contain the largest concentration of original 18th- and early 19th-century residential architecture in the United States.

We make a stop at the Mütter Museum America’s finest museum of medical history before visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country. The Franklin Institute was established in 1824 as a centre of science education and it also houses a huge statue of seated Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.

Time is getting away so we leave the city and head along the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95) to Newark Liberty International Airport where we drop off the rental car. The Newark Airport Express takes us to Grand Central Station in New York City and we take the subway to our hotel.

There is just time to reach the Circle Line pier to catch the Harbour Lights Cruise. The sun is low as we cruise down the Hudson River, around the Battery, up the East River, and back via the Statue of Liberty. As the sun sets and the skyline comes alive with millions of lights, we gaze in wonder at the hugely impressive scene and plan our next few days in the city that never sleeps.

www.LenRutledge.com

Infographic

The Best Alternative Attractions In Europe [Infographic]

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The Best Alternative Attractions In Europe

When it comes to sightseeing, it’s fair to say that there are few continents better to visit than Europe.

Unlike destinations such as the USA, the ‘Old World’ is steeped in thousands of years of varying civilisations, empires and different cultures.

On top of this, there’s also plenty of modern history, meaning there really is a wealth of tourist attractions.

Europe’s Wealth of Tourist Attractions

Just take a look at this list of the most visited European tourist attractions from Travel & Leisure. As you can see, there’s something wonderful for everyone.

There’s no denying that it’s fantastic visiting the Eiffel Tower or The Colosseum. However, it’s also true that cities such as Paris and Rome have a whole lot more to offer.

These are certainly the sort of destinations which you can revisit time and time again. However, no matter how great the Eiffel Tower might be, there’s a good chance you’ll want to see something else the second time around.

The Best Alternative Attractions In Europe

If you would prefer seeing something equally great but slightly less well known, then you’re in luck!
Thanks to a new infographic from citybaseapartments.com you can check out different tourist attractions from all of Europe big cities.

It’s called ‘The Best Alternative Attractions In Europe’ and you can take a look at the bottom of this post.

It takes one of the most prominent attractions of one particular European city and then offers up an alternative.

One of the best examples presented in the infographic is Paris. While the Eiffel Tower offers some truly sublime views of the French capital, there is clearly one amazing landmark missing from this view, the Eiffel Tower!

Instead, it suggests that you climb up to the Observatoire Panoramique De La Tour Montparnasse. This is on the 59th floor of France’s tallest skyscraper and offers some truly stunning views of the capital, including the Eiffel Tower.

Attractions In Europe

Asia

Rekindle the Spark at these Romantic Winter Getaways in Malaysia

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As the promise of a new year is upon us, and sounds of Merry Christmas fill the air, it is time of the year when many couples are planning that much-needed (and often postponed!) romantic getaway. Whether you are looking to spend some quality time together or rekindle the spark in your relationship, heading on to a romantic getaway can give you the solitude and tranquillity to start off the New Year on a positive note.

While there are many countries in Southeast Asia that offer the best in terms of tourist attractions and services, Malaysia holds a significant place, owing to its eclectic mix of modernity and tradition. A people-friendly country, Malaysia has built a solid reputation owing to its tourism initiatives. So, if you are planning a romantic winter getaway in Malaysia this Christmas and New Year’s eve, find out the best hotels and resorts in Malaysia.

Tanjung Aru Beach, Sabah

Tanjung Aru Beach, Sabah

A highly rated beach, Tanjung Baru is a favorite among couples, courtesy its majestic sunsets and proximity to the capital Kota Kinabalu. The beach offers exhilarating views of the coastline and just idling on the beach before and after the sunset will give you a feel that can’t be expressed in words. For adventure junkies, kayaking and jet-skiing are some of the key activities. A golf course and sailing club is also in the vicinity of the beach, so you have a host of options to choose from. The local resorts at the beach offer accommodation at an affordable rate, whereas seafood and authentic Malaysian cuisine are on offer at the beach and also at nearby restaurants. There are a number of tour operators that offer attractive Malaysia getaway packages at affordable prices.

Langkawi

Langkawi Island

While there are many urban tourist attractions in Malaysia, Langkawi often tops the list of most attractive places to visit in Malaysia, thanks to its over 100 beaches and staid, laidback village life. If you desire a romantic ambience that few places can match, we recommend you to climb (or take a cable) to the Gunung Mat Cincang Mountain. The majestic views from the hilltop will simply mesmerize you, and a candlelight buffet will complement the gorgeous setting and ambience of the place. Pantai Cenang and Pantai Tengah remain the most popular beaches in terms of facilities and services, whereas Tanjung Rhu and Datai Bay are the best places for shopping.

Tioman Island

Tioman Island

Tioman Island is one of the most popular Islands and situated in Rompin District, Pahang, Malaysia. Southeastern side of Peninsular has 64 Islands and Tioman is one of the biggest in those. It is known for its beaches, wonderful diving, snorkeling, fishing, resorts and its tranquil atmosphere. You will find more of lush tropical jungles on this Island than any roads. Couple can enjoy during winters its pristine beaches, mountain streams, aqua sports and exotic marine life. Taking a holiday in Malaysia will help you and your loved one unwind and enjoy your time.

Pangkor Island

Pangkor Island

Pangkor is another one of the most popular Islands in Malaysia which is worth visiting to create life time memories. It is situated next to the west coast of the Malaysian Peninsula in Perak . Couples can have number of exciting things to do here like taking a stroll on some fantastic beaches, snorkeling, explore some mystic temples, trekking in jungles and enjoy stay at some exquisite resort.

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands is a highland as the name suggests and because of its high location it is one of the coolest places in Malaysia for couple to enjoy during winters. Its climate is best suitable for cultivating tea. Cameron highlands are very popular among tourists who can walk for hours and hours in its cool climate. For scenic beauty, Cameron highlands are the best place for a romantic couple to visit. One can also visit popular places here for sightseeing like Cactus valley, Cameron Bharat Tea plantation, Cameron highlands Butterfly farm, Raaju’s hill Strawberry farm, Time Tunnel, Sam Poh Temple and lot more.

Taman Negara

Taman Negara

For couples who wish to experience tropical rainforest to the fullest, Taman Negara is definitely a best place to visit during winters. Couples will find here one of the best resorts, jungle treks, walk across one of the longest Malaysian suspension bridge in the world, Bird watching, travel upstream in the Boats, Marvel at flowers that only bloom at night and lot more.

Infographic, Travel Tips

10 Of The World’s Strangest Tourist Attractions [Infographic]

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10 Of The World’s Strangest Tourist Attractions

Let’s face it; holidays are for having fun and one of the best ways to do that is to visit one or more tourist attractions whilst you’re away. From family-friendly attractions to those a little more adult-focussed, you won’t struggle to find numerous ways to fill your days but it’s always interesting to take a look at what there is a little outside of the norm.

Citybase Apartments recently launched an infographic which looks at the world’s strangest tourist attractions and, for some of those included in the list, being dubbed strange is an understatement! From humongous pineapples through to the USA’s version of Stonehenge; one constructed from old cars!

The infographic highlights ten bizarre or strangest tourist attractions from across the globe and, as far as we are concerned, every single one needs to be on your bucket list!

Just what, however, are these ten bizarre attractions and where can they be found?

  1. The Big Pineapple – South Africa

    Ever fancied visiting a giant pineapple? If so, take yourself to South Africa and the day at ‘The Big Pineapple’ which can be found in Eastern Cape. The region is famous for their pineapples and the world’s only pineapple museum can be found within this one which is 55-foot tall!

  2. Sedlec Ossuary – Czech Republic

    Sedlec Ossuary certainly isn’t your regular church and, despite being tiny, is home to more than 40,000 skeletal remains. Spooky! It’s all arranged in a morbidly artistic fashion, however, it’s probably one which is still best avoided on Halloween!

  3. Mother Shipton’s Cave – England

    Deep inside North Yorkshire lies Mother Shipton’s Cave, one which, according to legend, was home to Mother Shipton, a prophetess who predicted the Great Fire of London. A great day out for the whole family and an attraction which is also home to a ‘petrifying well.’

  4. Inverary Jail – Scotland

    If your travels take you to Scotland, do yourself a favour and pay a visit to Inverary Jail. If you’ve ever wondered what an 18th Century Scottish jail was like, this is your opportunity to find out in the setting of a ‘living museum.’

  5. Carhenge – USA

    You are most likely familiar with Britain’s Stonehenge, however, few have yet to come across the USA’S own Carhenge. Yes, this really is a series of cars arranged in the layout of Stonehenge. A must-see attraction for anyone heading to Nebraska or nearby.

  6. Paris Sewer Museum – France

    You most likely don’t fancy spending your holidays down a sewer, but Paris’ sewer museum is a fantastic attraction, despite being one which initially sounds otherwise! This stunning museum takes you deep down under Paris itself and offers an insight into the history of an area you wouldn’t normally have the benefit of seeing for yourself. Add to your to-do list on your next visit to Paris.

  7. Upside Down House – China

    Yes, you really can pay a visit to an upside down house in China, one which is a little bit of a mind-bender. The house comes complete with furniture on the ceiling (or should that be the floor) and is a must-see sight for those who like things a little extraordinary. You’ll find the attraction an hour south of Shanghai.

  8. Battle Of The Oranges – Italy

    The battle of the oranges happens only once a year so timing is the key to visiting this attraction. The small Italian town of Ivrea plays host to the world’s largest orange fight. You must see this for yourself to believe it! Great fun nonetheless.

  9. Gnome Reserve – England

    Who loves gnomes? Or perhaps more a case of who doesn’t love gnomes? In the heart of Devon lies the UK’s very own Gnome Reserve, an attraction dedicated entirely to our tiny garden friends! You’ll have a great day out here, we promise!

  10. Yunessun Spa Resort – Japan

    You may be wondering why a spa resort makes the list, but when you find out that it’s one where you can take a dip in your favourite drink, it makes sense! However, who wouldn’t want to take a dip in green tea, wine or honey?

The World’s Strangest Tourist Attractions – An infographic by the team at Citybase Apartments

Asia, Destinations, Sport and Adventure

UAE – Middle East’s Biggest Adventureland

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UAE, once considered as a serious country, is today a country known for the adventurous experiences it holds. Each year, millions of tourists from around the world, come to see the tourist attractions in UAE. Many of them are adventure seekers who are drawn to the country to experience some of the most unique experiences that cannot be found elsewhere. One such prime example is the desert safari in Dubai. In the safari, you experience dune bashing, quad biking, camel riding, fire show, belly dancing, BBQ dinners, and so much more that makes it a great experience. Similarly, there are many other adventures unique to UAE that’ll blow your mind.

Dune Bugging

Dune Buggying in Dubai Desert

Similar to dune bashing, dune bugging is an adventurous activity. Dune buggies are caged vehicles that run through the desert and other rough terrains at high speeds. Dune buggies are gaining a lot of popularity as they allow off-roading at high speeds. If you love cars and the desert, you have to do this activity. It will be the thrill of a lifetime.

Off-roading

Off Roading in Dubai

UAE is a country that has some of the world’s finest and most powerful vehicles. Many of these vehicles are used for off-roading tours. Off-roading is a great way to see the rough terrain outside the city. Don’t get this confused with the desert safari. Off-roading tours cover many other areas, like the area near Hajar Mountain Range, which is full of undiscovered beauty.

Formula Rossa

Formula Rossa, Abu Dhabi - UAE

The Ferrari World Theme Park in Yas island, Abu Dhabi has many exciting rides and adventures, but the most exciting one has to be the Formulas Rossa. This is the world’s fastest roller coaster ride. If you’ve always wanted to experience the speeds a Formula 1 drive experiences, this ride is definitely for you. Feel the G-Force as the roller coasters zips and zooms about. This ride is a must for speed junkies.

Skiing

Skiing And Snowboarding in Dubai

Skiing in UAE? This must be a joke! But it’s not. UAE has been a country that takes pride in doing the impossible. One of these impossible feats is building a Ski Resort in the Mall of Emirates. The resort is a modern-day marvel that attracts many tourists who are amazed by the resort. You can ski and snowboard on 5 different slopes of varying difficulties. There are also many other snow activities. Come here, and be awestruck. It is one of the places to visit in UAE.

Flyboarding

Flyboarding in Dubai

Now this is something new, and there’s a good chance you might not even have heard of it. Flyboarding is a water sport that let’s you fly above the water. You are strapped to a Jet Blade, which is similar to the jet packs in spy movies; except the Jet Blades make use of water to propel you 10 metres above the water. It’s the best feeling in the world.

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking in Dubai

When adventure beckons, getting up early also becomes easy. So, get up early and head to the mountain bike trail in the Hajar Mountains. This trail was discovered by avid mountain bikers who took to the treacherous mountain. On the trail, you will find adventurous patches, wild animals and stunning views of the desert and mountain. This adrenalin ride is a must-have.

Indoor Skydiving

Indoor Skydiving Dubai

You can skydive anywhere in the world, but there are only a few places where you can indoor skydive. An indoor wind tunnel shooting air at 200 kmph will make you fly indoors. This activity is just as exciting, and will leave you breathless.

Race on the Track

Race on the Track, Dubai

We know about the Formula Rossa but how about actually racing on the Yas Marina Racetrack. After training, you can ride a racing car on the track, or even take part in the drag race, where the car reaches a speed of 60 mph in just 4.5 secs. If you are still looking for more adventure, you can also take part in a go-kart race in the Yas KartZone. Feed the speed junkie in you.

There are many tourist attractions in UAE that promise adventures like no other. UAE is a country that likes to take things to the next level. Therefore, you are guaranteed to have some amazing adventures that you will remember for the rest of your life.