We’re approaching fall, when kids go back to school, the air gets cooler, and leaves start to show their true colors. It’s a great time to hit the road, and our Fall Motorcycle Travel Guide will help inspire your next motorcycle adventure. The guide is organized by region, and each destination includes important resources to help you make the most of your ride. Want your travel story published in Rider? Take notes, capture the best moments with photos, and send your pitch to rider@ridermagazine.com.
Longtime Rider contributor Ken Frick (see his U.S. 50 feature here) hails from Zanesville, Ohio, the northern terminus of the famous Triple Nickel (OH Route 555). He reconnects with his roots and shares some of his favorite backroads that make southeastern Ohio such a popular destination for motorcyclists. In addition to the Triple Nickel, which is part of Ohio’s Windy 9, he explores State Routes 60, 78, 83, 146, 284, 340, and 376. He also visits landmarks in and around Zanesville, including the Y-Bridge, the National Road-Zane Grey Museum, the boyhood home of John Glenn, The Wilds, and Blue Rock State Park.
Rider’s managing editor, Allison Parker, is a native Tennessean. She and her husband, Jake, spent three days exploring the sights and roads of the 9 Lakes Region of East Tennessee, named after lakes created by Tennessee Valley Authority dams to provide electric power and recreation. The Appalachian Mountains define the area’s character, where roads follow hills, hollows, and rivers to connect small towns. Highlights of their trip included the Devil’s Triangle loop, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park (home of Tri-State Peak, where Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia meet), Norris Dam State Park, Fort Southwest Point, and the Victorian village of Rugby.
Riding Well columnist Eric Trow’s father-in-law, George, cherished Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest – “he not only loved the area but was also intimately familiar with nearly every small town, backroad, and beer garden across Clarion, Forest, Elk, and McKean counties.” After his father-in-law passed away, Trow explored “George’s Country” by motorcycle, meandering down rural state highways and U.S. Route 6 (known as PA Route 6), stopping in small towns like Kane and Smethport, and visiting landmarks like the Kinzua Sky Walk, the Eldred WWII Museum, the Zippo/Case Museum, and Serenity Glass Park. He slows down and gets to know the people and places that make this part of Pennsylvania special.
Lighting a New Path on Route 66 in Pulaski County, Missouri
Route 66 Neon Park in Missouri
For nearly 100 years, Route 66 has called out to those with wanderlust, who yearn to set out on the open road on two wheels. In Pulaski County, Missouri, a new beacon shines brightly as a symbol of the Mother Road’s adventurous spirit. Route 66 Neon Park beckons cross-country travelers to stop and marvel at the mid-century modern nostalgia on display. This free, open-air museum in the heart of the Ozarks hosts authentic neon signs that formerly stood along the Missouri portion of Route 66. Once abandoned, forgotten, and left to waste, these rehabilitated masterpieces now cast a familiar glow over the Mother Road in Saint Robert, a spectacular tribute to the roadside attractions that lured travelers during the famed highway’s heyday.
In Waynesville, the Birthplace of the Byway, the heritage of Route 66 lives on at numerous historical sites. The 1903 Courthouse Museum, one of just two period courthouses on Missouri’s stretch of the highway, immerses visitors in the history of Pulaski County, as does the Old Stagecoach Stop, the oldest standing structure in the county.
But a modern drive down Historic Route 66 isn’t just about remembering the glory days – portions of the original route remain just as they were generations ago. Take, for example, the iconic steel-truss bridge in the small community of Devils Elbow. Constructed in 1923, this bridge provides an unparalleled view of the majestic Hiawatha Bluffs towering over the Big Piney River and carries travelers to a can’t-miss photo op at the former Devils Elbow Cafe. Once rumored to be the deepest road cut in America, Hooker Cut carries bikers past breathtaking dolomite and limestone rock faces – a true engineering triumph. And roadside attractions like the famed Uranus Fudge Factory, Frog Rock, and the 8-foot Route 66 Shield echo the popular photo ops that have come and gone over the last 100 years, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Mother Road in Pulaski County.
Picture This: 301 Miles of Classic Americana on Route 66, Illinois
West End Service Station in Edwardsville, IL (Photo courtesy Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau)
The open road hums beneath your tires, the scent of sizzling burgers drifts through the air, and neon signs flicker in the twilight – Illinois Route 66 is more than a road; it’s a journey through America’s past. Spanning 301 miles from Chicago to Granite City, this legendary highway offers a nostalgic mix of diners, quirky attractions, and historic landmarks.
Your adventure begins in downtown Chicago at the iconic Route 66 sign. Leaving the city’s skyline behind, make your first stop at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, serving crispy fried chicken since the 1920s.
The first 100 miles take you through Joliet, home of the Old Joliet Prison featured in the movies The Blues Brothers and Prison Break. In Wilmington, the towering Gemini Giant welcomes travelers. Pontiac, a favorite photo stop, boasts the world’s largest painted Route 66 shield and the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, celebrating the highway’s golden age.
Farther south, Bloomington-Normal offers the restored Sprague’s Super Service Station, a glimpse into road travel’s past. Atlanta is home to the towering 19-foot Paul Bunyon Statue holding a giant hot dog, as well as the American Giants Museum, which preserves the history of Muffler Men and other larger-than-life roadside attractions.
West End Service Station in Edwardsville, IL (Photo courtesy Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau)
In Springfield, Abraham Lincoln’s legacy comes to life at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, and his tomb. Food lovers can indulge at Cozy Dog Drive-In, the birthplace of the corn dog, or try the famous Horseshoe Sandwich at Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill.
Farther along, Litchfield’s Ariston Cafe, one of the oldest restaurants on Route 66, welcomes travelers. Livingston’s Pink Elephant Antique Mall offers a quirky stop with its giant pink elephant and vintage treasures. Collinsville’s Brooks Catsup Bottle water tower, a tribute to America’s favorite condiment, and Edwardsville’s historic West End Service Station (photos above) evoke early road travel.
Illinois Route 66 meets the Mississippi River, connecting with another legendary highway – the Great River Road. As you cross the historic Chain of Rocks Bridge, the mighty river below serves as a perfect farewell before the Mother Road continues westward, carrying the spirit of adventure onward.
9 Reasons to Add the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee to Your Bucket List
Cherohala Skyway
East Tennessee is where mountains meet pristine waters, where history comes alive, and where every turn in the road leads to a new adventure. Here’s why the 9 Lakes Region belongs on your must-visit list:
Five National Scenic Byways: From winding mountain passes to peaceful lakeside rides, the journey is as stunning as the destination.
Four National Parks: Hike in the Smokies, explore the wild Big South Fork, and discover protected lands teeming with wildlife.
Iconic Mountain Ranges: Two Appalachian giants – the Smokies and the Cumberlands – frame the region with unforgettable vistas.
Turquoise Lakes: Nine sparkling lakes invite you to kayak, fish, swim, or simply relax by the shore.
Year-Round Beauty: From spring blooms to fall foliage, the mountains and valleys change with each season – nine glorious months for the perfect road trip.
Outdoor Adventure: Paddle, hike, climb, camp – choose your own pace, from adrenaline rush to peaceful escape.
Rich History: Walk in the footsteps of pioneers and Native Americans, explore Civil War battlefields, and find your America250 story in the places that helped shape our nation.
Charming Small Towns: Discover boutique shopping, local dining, and festivals that welcome you like family.
Views You’ll Never Forget: Stand high above the Tennessee Valley and soak in panoramas you can’t capture in a photo – you simply have to be there.
Not all road trips are created equal. Some offer such a variety of experiences and opportunities that they keep you coming back for more. That perfectly describes U.S. Route 6 in Pennsylvania, known locally as PA Route 6. Spanning 427 miles, Route 6 offers motorcyclists an unforgettable journey across the northern tier of the state.
Majestic Scenery
From lush forests to picturesque farmlands, riders encounter a kaleidoscope of natural wonders at every turn. Beginning in the western half of the state, riders are treated to the wine country of the Great Lakes Region before riding through the Allegheny National Forest, where towering trees canopy the road. Farther east, cruise through the vast agricultural valleys of the Endless Mountains before heading on to the Pocono Mountains.
Explore all of this on one epic road trip or break it into several trips using the official “Take the High Road” Motorcycle Loop Map available through PA Route 6 Alliance. Their five signature motorcycle loops range in length from 189 to 270 miles and are designed to help riders truly experience what each region of PA Route 6 has to offer. Download maps and view itineraries here.
Historic Charm
Passing through quaint towns and villages, riders can explore charming main streets lined with historic buildings, cozy cafes, and antique shops. Each stop along the route unveils a piece of America’s heritage, starting with the Erie Canal in Erie County and the Kinzua Sky Walk in McKean County, which was once the tallest and longest railroad bridge in the world.
Journey on to the Austin Dam in Potter County, where 78 people were killed when the dam broke in 1911. Farther down the road, learn about train history at the Steamtown National Historic Site in Lackawanna County. And don’t forget a stop at The Columns in Pike County, where you can view the blood-stained Lincoln Flag that cushioned President Lincoln’s head moments after he was assassinated. These stops and many more help visitors experience not just the history of this region but of the nation.
Vibrant Culture
Traveling along PA Route 6 exposes riders to the vibrant culture and hospitality of small communities. From festivals celebrating local traditions to roadside diners serving hearty comfort food, riders are immersed in the warmth of rural America. Friendly locals welcome riders with open arms, sharing stories and recommendations.
Also on the PA Route 6 website, check out the Public Art & Mural Trail, which features dozens of murals and art displays that tell the stories of communities across the northern tier of Pennsylvania. All of these offer great opportunities to stretch your legs while learning more about this region.
Timeless Memories
Perhaps the most compelling reason to ride PA Route 6 is to create memories that will be cherished for years to come. Whether it’s watching a sunrise over the Allegheny Mountains, sharing a laugh with newfound friends at a roadside diner, or feeling the rush of the wind as you twist the throttle on a scenic stretch of road through the Endless Mountains, every moment along PA Route 6 is imbued with a sense of magic and wonder.
Riding a motorcycle along PA Route 6 is an experience that transcends mere transportation – it’s a journey of discovery, adventure, and camaraderie. So pack your saddlebags, fire up your engine, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime along PA Route 6!
Sometimes the best family adventures start with just a few hours on the road. From mountain escapes to beachside retreats, these destinations make it easy to swap city life for fresh air, wide-open spaces and plenty of kid-friendly fun. Check out (and check in at) these top family road trip destinations from Los Angeles that deliver big memories.
Looking for even more Labor Day travel inspiration? Check out our favorite day trips and farther-flung road trip ideas.
Photograph: Courtesy Ana Lui/Rosewood MiramarRosewood Miramar
Santa Barbara
Distance: 2hrs by car, 3hrs by train (Amtrak Pacific Surfliner)
Santa Barbara blends small-town charm with a touch of glamour, all framed by golden beaches and mountain views. Spend mornings building sandcastles at East Beach, feeding giraffes at the Santa Barbara Zoo, exploring the historic Stearns Wharf’s aquarium or letting little ones loose in kid-centric MOXI’s hands-on science exhibits. Montecito adds a more serene touch with oceanfront strolls, boutique shopping and plenty of shaded patios for family lunches. If a stop is needed, take a quick detour off the 101 in Ventura to stroll the pier or grab fish tacos from Spencer Makenzie’s before continuing up the coast.
Where to stay: The Rosewood Miramar in Montecito offers direct beachfront access, lawn games and roomy suites—including standalone bungalows that provide a sense of privacy with the littlest of travelers. There’s even an ice cream shop on-property and the railway passes through the property, which would delight any train-obsessed toddler. Just a stone’s throw away is the famous and ultra-private San Ysidro Ranch. The idyllic hotel is set up with storybook cottages set against the Santa Ynez Mountains and across 550 acres. Families could explore the blooming gardens, hike around the property or splash in the heated pool. Alternatively (and far more affordably), Hilton Santa Barbara is steps from the Funk Zone’s dining and galleries. With six new pickleball courts that sport sweeping ocean views and a new luxury spa, the coastal getaway checks the box for kids and adults. Plus, less than a mile away from the Hilton is the SB Zoo—try to spot the flamingo named Hilty in honor of the resort.
Time Out tip: The Pacific Surfliner drops you just two blocks from the beach—kids will love watching the ocean roll by from their seat. When staying at the Rosewood Miramar, watch the train zoom by every 2 to 3 hours from 10am to 8pm. On Thursdays catch a kid-friendly movie under the stars by the Manor Pool. The hotel has also partnered with nearby Godmothers Bookstore in Summerland for a monthly storytime. Check their website for details.
Photograph: Shutterstock/f11photo
San Diego
Distance: 2.5hrs by car, 3hrs by train (Amtrak Pacific Surfliner)
San Diego is a playground for all ages, from the world-famous San Diego Zoo to Balboa Park’s sprawling gardens and interactive museums. Mission Bay’s calm waters are perfect for beginner paddleboarders, while Seaport Village offers old-fashioned carousel rides and sweet treats. Evenings are made for strolling Little Italy’s lively streets, where the food scene ranges from casual pizza to fresh seafood.
Where to stay: Located in the historic Gaslamp Quarter, the Omni San Diego Hotel has baseball-themed rooms overlooking Petco Park (and connected to the hotel via a pedestrian skywalk), while the new Gaylord Pacific Resort promises multiple pools, slides and on-site dining for every craving. For the biggest Padres fans, book the 33 Series rooms or suites on floors 16 through 19 for unique vantage points looking into the ballpark.
Time Out tip: Many Balboa Park museums rotate free-admission Tuesdays—plan ahead and you could explore for free.
Photograph: Benjamin Mark Demarest / ShutterstockPowerhouse Park in Del Mar
Del Mar
Distance: 2hrs by car, 3hrs by train (Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to Solana Beach + short ride share)
Del Mar’s wide sandy beaches and easy-going vibe make it the perfect spot to slow down. Kids can run free at the grassy, ocean-overlooking Powerhouse Park before heading down to the shoreline to play in the sand or hunt for seashells. If you’re visiting in early October, check out the Del Mar Harvest Festival & Original Craft Show at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The world-famous Del Mar Racetrack wraps up their summer season in early September with family-friendly programming; the fall season (Oct 30–Nov 30) culminates with the prestigious Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
Where to stay: Fairmont Grand Del Mar has kid-friendly pools, horseback riding trails and plenty of green space for kids to run free. While Del Mar is located more inland, venture closer to the quaint, coastal neighborhood of La Jolla for stays at the Lodge at Torrey Pines, La Valencia and Hilton La Jolla.
Time Out tip: Arrive at Powerhouse Park early—it’s the best way to snag a picnic spot with an ocean view.
Photograph: Courtesy Carmel Valley RanchCarmel Valley Ranch
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Distance: 5.5hrs by car
Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with whimsical cottages, white-sand beaches, and cobblestone streets with cafes and quaint shops made for exploring. Upon arrival, kids can splash in tide pools at Carmel Beach, or take a quick drive inland to the sunshine and greenery of Carmel Valley for family-friendly wineries with lawn games and picnic tables. The longer road trip to California’s central coast inevitably requires a stop—opt for a quick bite in San Luis Obispo at Madonna Inn’s over-the-top pink dining room.
Where to stay: With 500 acres, Carmel Valley Ranch offers a sprawling playground of activities—from feeding llamas and learning archery to visiting the on-site bee apiary or cooling off in the newly renovated pool and splash zone—set against rolling hills and oak trees. The sprawling resort has launched a partnership with Nuna to offer premium strollers, booster seats, playards, high chairs and baby carriers to make your stay more comfortable. There’s also a special Munchkin Menu with everything from coloring books to bottle warmers, daily s’mores, plus house-made baby food for the youngest guests at Valley Kitchen. Within actual Carmel there are plenty of more affordable accommodations as well—from sleepy inns and smaller boutique hotels to seaside hotel chains.
Time Out tip: In Monterey (15 minutes from Carmel), the monarch butterfly sanctuary is at its peak from October to February, but it’s still a beautiful place to connect with nature and walk year-round.
Photograph: LEGOLAND California Resort
Carlsbad
Distance: 2hrs by car, 3hrs by train (Amtrak Pacific Surfliner)
Carlsbad is practically built for families thanks to LEGOLAND California, miles of beaches and a walkable downtown lined with ice cream shops and casual cafes. In the fall, the town is dotted with pumpkin patches and harvest fun: Check out the Carlsbad Village Oktoberfest on September 20 with live music, German food and family activities in October; and in November, Carlsbad Village Street Faire (the next one is on November 2), one of the largest in the U.S. It’s an easy blend of activity and relaxation, with something to keep every age group happy.
Where to stay: Connected to the theme park, LEGOLAND Hotel or LEGOLAND Castle Hotel bring the fun indoors with themed rooms, character meet-and-greets and kid-sized amenities.
Time Out tip: Book LEGOLAND tickets online for the lowest prices—and go midweek to avoid long lines. For a midway stop, hit San Clemente for a pier stroll and a doughnut from Sur Coffee before continuing south.
Photograph: Courtesy Dana Point Harbor Partners
Dana Point
Distance: 1hr by car
This laid-back harbor town is a hub for ocean adventures, from whale watching and kayaking to learning about marine life at the Ocean Institute. Baby Beach’s calm, shallow waters make it ideal for young kids to splash safely. The waterfront is lined with casual spots for fish tacos or ice cream, perfect after a day on the water. For restless travelers, make a pit stop at Laguna Niguel Regional Park for a quick playground break and shaded picnic tables.
Time Out tip: Dana Point Harbor dubs itself the Whale Watching Capital of the U.S., and for good reason. From fall to winter, it’s a great time to catch gray whale migrations on a boat tour—fun, educational and immersive for families. There’s also the Festival of Whales, typically held over a weekend in early March, when the whole harbor transforms into a celebration of the migration season.
Photograph: HannaTor / Shutterstock.com
Coronado
Distance: 2.5hrs by car, 3hrs by train (Amtrak Pacific Surfliner + 15-minute ride)
Connected to San Diego by its iconic bridge, Coronado is a charming getaway with wide, golden beaches and gentle surf (though sometimes referred to as an island, it’s technically a peninsula). Rent a surrey bike to cruise along the waterfront, stop into local shops for beach gear and grab lunch with a view. It’s a place where the pace slows down and family time takes center stage. The entire peninsula is only about 7 miles long and 1.5 miles across at its widest point. Pop into the Living Coast Discovery Center for hands-on wildlife encounters in nearby Chula Vista.
Where to stay:Hotel del Coronado just underwent a $550 million renovation—the National Historic Landmark built in 1888 combines historic charm with beachfront cabanas and seasonal kids’ programming. The six-year revamp has restored its original Victorian building to its full glory. Ideal for families or large groups traveling together, the hotel-within-a-hotel Shore House at the Del offers residential-style villas and modern beach houses. Plus, there’s underwater virtual reality snorkeling (yes, seriously, it’s a thing) or a family surf lesson at the new Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience—the only surf school founded by the pro surfer in the mainland U.S. Be sure to reserve your spot for Movies on the Beach, where you can enjoy classic films from June to October, on an inflatable screen, toes in the sand and s’mores in hand. Movie night is open to the public, but reservations are required.
Time Out tip: The Del’s Ocean Explorers kids camp is more like a fun classroom with a curriculum and experiences designed to help children learn about ocean life.
Photograph: Michael Juliano
Laguna Beach
Distance: 1hr by car
This sleepy coastal town gained notoriety in the early 2000s thanks to the teen-drama–filled reality show Laguna Beach—but today Laguna Beach is where coastal beauty meets an artsy soul. Spend the morning exploring tide pools or lounging in secluded coves, then head into town for galleries, street art and casual lunch spots. Heisler Park offers ocean-view walking paths and plenty of green space for a family picnic. Make a pit stop at Crystal Cove State Park for a quick beach walk or milkshake from the Crystal Cove Shake Shack.
Where to stay: Montage Laguna Beach has a dedicated Paintbox kids’ club, craft activities and direct beach access. Don’t miss the afternoon poolside s’mores every day, plus check the Paintbox calendar for movie nights and a packed schedule of events to entertain kids of all ages. Studio Mediterranean, the hotel’s latest dining outpost, transports you to Mykonos with stunning Mediterranean flair and delectable eats. The best part? Every corner of the hotel has kids in mind, including at this restaurant where toddlers are given micro stuffies and Etch A Sketch type toys to keep them entertained. Another option is to stay at the nearby Surf & Sand Hotel and enjoy the beach and family dining outlets at Montage.
Time Out tip: Hop on the free Laguna Beach Trolley for an easy, scenic way to explore without moving the car.
Photograph: Courtesy the Resort at Pelican HillThe Resort at Pelican Hill
Newport Beach
Distance: 1hr by car (no direct train)
This harbor town offers classic SoCal fun with a touch of polish. Spend the day at Balboa Fun Zone riding the Ferris wheel, taking a harbor cruise or trying your luck at the arcade. Wide sandy beaches make it easy to set up for a full day by the water. Take a shopping break at the open-air Fashion Island, where lush lawns and a serene koi pond keep kids entertained while parents explore the stores. Lido Marina Village, dotted with upscale boutiques and restaurants, is another family-friendly spot to spend the day. Rent a Duffy electric boat from Lido Marina or Balboa Island for a calm cruise and memorable boat picnic.
Where to stay: The Resort at Pelican Hill offers bungalow and villa-style stays with pools, kid’s cooking classes and Juniors on Course golf lessons. Boasting one of the world’s largest circular pools, the expansive property is ideal for big groups. The larger format private villas are perfect for multifamily vacations. For kids, there are toys in a chest presented to them at check-in, and you can also prebook a teepee in the room. Be sure to call ahead for a teepee to be set up in the room—the resort also provides bath buckets, LEGO bricks or mermaid tales to surprise even the youngest guests. Though on the pricier side, the resort rents cabanas to non-guests, perfect if you just want to lounge by the pool and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Time Out tip: Take the short, scenic Balboa Island Ferry ride—it’s a hit with kids and costs just a few dollars.
Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock
Solvang + Los Olivos
Distance: 2.5hrs by car
Escape to Solvang’s Danish-inspired streets lined with windmills, pastry shops and plenty of charm. Families can hop on a horse-drawn trolley, sample aebleskiver (fluffy pancake balls) or wander into quirky gift shops. Just down the road, Los Olivos offers sprawling lawns at family-friendly wineries and shaded picnic spots.
Where to stay: Experience a luxury dude ranch at Alisal Ranch with horseback riding, fishing, a rodeo, farm animals, ropes course and s’mores nights, all set against 10,500 acres, making it a true family retreat. Make sure to experience the cowboy breakfast, a morning horseback ride to breakfast in the canyons. Closer to Los Olivos is the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, another luxe Western cabin themed hotel. Splash in the pool and don’t miss the special backyard BBQ on Thursdays. Hotel Inez is a rustic nearby option as well.
Time Out tip: Stop by Ostrichland USA on the edge of town to feed the giant birds—just beware they could get aggressive (but don’t worry, there’s a fence that separates you from the dinosaur-like birds). If you want a calmer animal experience, head to Zaca Creek Ranch to visit the llama farm.
Photograph: Courtesy Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & SpaOmni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Palm Springs
Distance: 2hrs by car (limited train service; Amtrak Thruway bus service available)
Palm Springs isn’t just for poolside lounging—though there’s plenty of that, too. Sip a date shake from a roadside stand, explore the kid-friendly Palm Springs Air Museum or hike through the palm-filled canyons for a dose of nature. The desert sunsets are worth the trip alone. For a fun stop en route, pull over at Cabazon Dinosaurs (the T. Rex and brontosaurus sculptures of Pee-wee’s Big Adventure fame) for a kitschy photo op and quick snack break. Just southeast of Palm Springs, head to Palm Desert’s Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to see more than 150 species of desert animals from all over the world—sign up for the giraffe feeding experience. During the cooler half of the year, take a toddler-friendly hike in the Indian Canyons (follow the Andreas Canyon Trail) with shady palm groves, gentle seasonal streams and an approximately one-mile loop.
Where to stay: In nearby Rancho Mirage, Omni Rancho Las Palmas has a 425-foot lazy river, water slides and plenty of space for little ones to play. The hotel’s Splashtopia water park features two 100-foot slides, a sandy beach and water-play zones. There’s also a gaming cabana with arcade favorites, Ping-Pong, air hockey, foosball and a cotton candy machine.
Time Out tip: Arrive on Thursday for the weekly Village Fest, when downtown turns into a lively open-air market.
Photograph: Courtesy Justin Kriel/VRX Studios
Palos Verdes
Distance: 45mins by car
South Bay residents may think of Palos Verdes as home turf, but for most Angelenos it’s a nearby getaway that delivers cliffside views, peaceful beaches and tide pools teeming with life. Families can hike coastal trails or simply enjoy a picnic overlooking the Pacific. It’s an easy escape that feels miles from the bustle of L.A. For a quick detour, stop at the Korean Bell of Friendship in San Pedro for sweeping views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
Where to stay: Terranea Resort offers oceanfront suites, a kid’s club and activities like archery, kayaking and paddleboarding. The kid’s club has an interactive lineup of activities including tie-dye, shell art, a meet-a-mermaid experience and painting classes.
Time Out tip: Check tide charts before heading to Abalone Cove—low tide reveals the best marine life.
Photograph: Courtesy Ojai Valley InnOjai Valley Inn
Ojai
Distance: 1.5hrs by car
Ojai’s small-town charm is all about slowing down. Wander through the Sunday farmers’ market, bike under leafy oak trees or browse the town’s art galleries and bookshops. With its mountain backdrop and citrus-scented air, it’s a refreshing reset for the whole family.
Where to stay: Sprawling across 220 scenic acres, Ojai Valley Inn offers a kid’s camp, art classes and four pools set in a serene valley. Here, it’s all about reconnecting with nature—from horseback riding and beekeeping experiences to tie-dye and beaded jewelry workshops, there’s something for every age. The property also offers Camp Oak, a year-round service designed for kids ages 4 through 12 with full-day, half-day and night camp programming.
Time Out tip: Take a quick drive to Lake Casitas, a rugged reservoir just to the west. Time your visit for the “pink moment” at sunset, when the surrounding mountains glow in soft pastel hues.
Photograph: Michael Juliano for Time OutScenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear
Distance: 2hrs by car
Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers a refreshing alpine retreat just a couple of hours from Los Angeles. In winter, it transforms into a snowy playground ideal for skiing, snow tubing and building snowmen. During the warmer months, the mood shifts to hiking trails, lake adventures and mountain biking. Families can stroll the flat Alpine Pedal Path, a stroller-friendly trail winding along the northern shore of Big Bear Lake—perfect for little ones to take in the views. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo, a rescue and rehabilitation center, brings wildlife encounters up close in a peaceful setting. Over at the ski resort, the Sky Chair at Snow Summit treats families to panoramic lake and forest vistas. At the town’s center, the village charm comes alive with toy stores, cafés and sweet shops—making it an ideal spot to warm up after alpine adventures.
Where to stay: Check into the Gold Mountain Manor, a historic bed-and-breakfast with cozy suites, or opt for family-sized vacation rentals and cabins around the lake that provide plenty of space for kids to play. Some higher-end options include private lakefront homes or chalet-style lodges with hot tubs and game rooms. For standout accommodations, opt for Chateau Big Bear, a recently renovated boutique hotel. The tranquil lodge offers a heated pool, game room and complimentary breakfast. Blending midcentury modern style with alpine charm, the lakefront Hotel Marina Riviera features a year-round heated pool, sauna and lakeside firepits. Families can book a room with cozy built-in bunk beds, or choose one of the two standalone cabins for extra space and privacy.
Time Out tip: For a more relaxed break, head to Boulder Bay Park, a scenic, grassy lakeside spot with gentle shores and a playground, ideal for toddlers to run and splash even outside ski season.
A cruise holiday descended into horror when emergency services arrived to airlift two passengers to hospital as they fight for their lives after being struck down by medical emergencies
Rescuers were deployed to the Ruby Princess cruise ship off the coast of Canada on Sunday.(Image: Royal Canadian Air Force/U.S. Coast Guard)
A cruise ship was sent into a flurry of panic when two passengers suffered medical emergencies that have left them fighting for their lives. One 52-year-old woman had a heart attack and went on life support, while a 99-year-old man’s throat completely closed up. The Ruby Princess ship was cruising 50 miles from Vancouver Island, Canada, when it descended into chaos.
Both the US Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Air Force rushed over, and the woman was airlifted to Victoria, British Columbia.
The elderly man with “complete oesophageal obstruction”, on the other hand, was transferred to Neah Bay, Washington, reported the Express.
Cruise ship horror as passengers airlifted to hospital in critical condition(Image: Royal Canadian Air Force/U.S. Coast Guard)
The ship is believed to have been travelling from Sitka in Alaska to San Francisco, California.
Speaking to CTV News, Captain Dave Moore, commander of the Cormorant, said: “When we arrived at the vessel, everything was very smooth, very professional.The Kingfisher was already on scene, helping the U.S. Coast Guard helicopter.
“They provided top cover and some communications with the vessel, with the other aircraft, and did a good job co-ordinating on scene.”
Corporal Felix Serre, a rescuers who was lowered from the aircraft onto the ship, said the “medical staff in the cruise ship were incredible”.
Lieutenant Keil Kodama added: “This rescue operation exemplifies the exceptional international co-operation and the rapid emergency response capabilities of both nations.”
The ship is believed to have been travelling from Sitka in Alaska to San Francisco, California(Image: Royal Canadian Air Force/U.S. Coast Guard)
The US Coast Guard said the work of the emergency services meant the patients could “receive the care they needed”.
Commander Kelly Higgins said: “This case demonstrates how our specialized expertise and dedicated training allows us to rapidly respond to these types of time-sensitive medical evacuations at sea”.
A cruise operator issued a statement following an outbreak that left over 140 passengers and crew suffering from severe symptoms on board their vessel.
During a seven-night round trip from Los Angeles to Mexico, the company’s Navigator of the Seas saw seven staff members and 134 guests experience symptoms including vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea.
With 3,194 guests on board, the Navigator of the Seas took immediate action by implementing intensive cleaning and disinfection protocols and quarantining those affected.
A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean Group stated: “The health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit are our top priority.”
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If you’re pining for a holiday either later this year or early in 2026, now could be the time to book. A travel sale from website Click Frenzy begins tonight.
Deals include money off flights including to the USA.
Or if you want to holiday at home, you can get discounts on things like whale watching trips in Sydney.
There are offers on flights to Hawaii. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)
With the company saying 62 per cent of Aussies plan to embrace a new travel trend this year, maybe now is the time to book that guided tour for a discount.
There are also offers on cruises, plus certain hotel stays have discounts along with essentials like travel insurance.
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“Australians want travel experiences that reflect who they are and what they love, whether that’s a solo journey, a family getaway, or a short city escape, head of marketing at Click Frenzy, Daniel Thompson says.
“With Aussies feeling the pressure of the cost of living rising, we want to make it easier for people to explore new destinations and enjoy experiences they’re passionate about.”
The sale starts tonight at 7pm AEST. Here are some of the offers running.
There are deals on Celebrity Cruises. (Nine)
Click Frenzy Travel Deals on offer
Celebrity Cruises – Up to 75 per cent off second guest and save up to $750 per room. four-night Tasmania Cruise from $1,299PP or eight-night Australia wine cruise from $2,799PP
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