Best Caribbean Family Vacation

Family friendly resorts are scattered across the Caribbean

Not all Caribbean islands are created equal, so what is the best Caribbean family vacation? Some Caribbean destinations are better suited to adults, and touching down at one of these island hot spots, kids in tow, can be a real vacation bummer. Avoid the disappointment and figure out which tropical locales are perfectly suited to family-friendly fun.

If you're looking for a Caribbean destination that will be fun for the whole brood, consider these options which are sure to please parents and kids alike:

The Breezes Resort on tiny Curacao is tailor made for families vacationing together. The long, private beach the resort sits on is a draw for everyone, but restless kids always have something to do thanks to the on-site Camp Breezes. The specially designed kids' program gets children involved in all kinds of outdoor activities, giving parents some time to de-stress on their own. The resort is also located next to two major tourist attractions: the Undersea National Park and the Sea Aquarium, giving you two family friendly activities right on your doorstep.

Atlantis, located on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, is a wonderland for all ages. This mega resort features 11 pools, including two kids-only swimming areas, a movie theatre that shows three flicks a day for free, 35 restaurants, and a 97 acres waterscape, complete with sharks. If that is not enough to keep everyone entertained, there is family yoga on the beach, a waterpark, puppet shows, and a pottery studio. The wide range of options is enough to keep the entire clan entertained.

The Ritz-Carlton hotel chain is a well known name in the world of luxury hotels, and their Cayman Islands property lives up to the chain's reputation. The hotel boasts a whopping 143 acres with plenty of activities geared towards families. The hotel is situated on famed Seven Mile Beach, which also boasts a number of water sports and outdoor activities. If mom and dad need a break after a long day playing with the kids, the hotel can arrange for a babysitter to take over while they enjoy a night out on the town.

Like Ritz-Carlton, the Four Seasons name is synonymous with quality and luxury. At their resort on the tiny island of Nevis, kids are pampered as much as their parents. The "Kids for All Seasons" camp is operational every day and takes kids on exciting adventures around the resort, including water sports, tennis lessons and storytelling. Every evening, adults have the chance to enjoy a free beverage during the resort's cocktail hour while youngsters can attend a separate fun-filled kids' party. On-site babysitting is also available.

Located on a 237-acre former sugar plantation in St. Croix, The Buccaneer, has plenty of elbow room for kids to get out and explore. The resort's kids' programs are world-class and include fun adventures like a day sailing trip to Buck Island Reef and nature walks where kids pick and taste local fruit.

As a chain, Beaches consistently wins awards for their family-friendly resorts, but their Turks and Caicos location is the jewel in their crown. Kids can hang out with their favorite Sesame Street characters, take part in a variety of activities and camps, and dine in their own special restaurants on the resort's grounds. For parents looking for a break, there is an on-site nursery facility and babysitting can be arranged upon request.

Puerto Rico's El Conquistador is serious about giving kids, as well as parents, an experience to remember. While parents soak up some rays or visit the spa, young guests can take a free water taxi to a special, kids-only island called Palomino where they attend Camp Conqui. On their special island, kids can take part in water sports and nature hikes. Water sports are also available for families to experience together, plus, the resort boasts a water park offering thrills for the young and young at heart.

If you're ready to get your best Caribbean family vacation underway, visit one of these websites and start booking your trip:

Keep in mind that prices vary according to seasons. Expect to pay more during winter and spring. To save on your tropical family vacation consider traveling during the fall.

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Michigan Family Vacation

Regardless of the season, a Michigan family vacation is your ticket to adventure, excitement and plenty of fun. What's more, with so many affordable options available, planning a trip to the "Wolverine State" doesn't have to break the bank.

Michigan is an upper Midwest mecca for family fun. The state is home to the longest freshwater coastline in the world, more than 64,000 inland lakes and ponds, and hundreds of other outdoor gems. However, in addition to its rich medley of natural treasures, the state also boasts bright lights and big city life.

Whether you are looking to escape into nature or you prefer to treat your clan to a high-octane trip to the "Motor City," a Michigan family vacation has something for everyone.

Michigan is a magnet for skiers. The state's resorts are top-notch, and for good reason. Michigan is home to some of the steepest mountains in the nation, and the region sees some of the heaviest snowfall on the planet. Resorts like Crystal Mountain offer some of the best family skiing with amenities for beginners and those who thrive on challenging runs. What's more, families can score great winter vacation packages that combine lodging and lift tickets at reasonable prices.

Summer in Michigan is equally fantastic thanks to the state's abundant natural treasures, such as Torch Lake Michigan. Heralded as Michigan's longest inland lake, people travel from around the world to bask on its shoreline and fish in its waters. The area is peppered with rental cabins, cottages and resorts that allow easy access to fishing, hiking, swimming and canoeing. The lake is also a hot spot in the fall when the leaves change and reflect off the lake's unique mixture of light green, blue and turquoise waters.

It won't take much to rev up the family for an action-packed trip to Detroit. The sprawling metropolis is packed with hundreds of activities and attractions to keep the entire clan entertained. Some top picks include:

Henry Ford Museum: You can't take a trip to the "Motor City" without visiting the museum named after the man who jump started it all. The Henry Ford Museum provides hands-on lessons in the evolution of historic vehicles from Rosa Parks' bus to limousines used by various presidents. Comerica Park: More than just a haven for baseball fans, Comerica Park is also a mini theme park (complete with Ferris wheel and carousel) and sports museum rolled into one. The Detroit Zoo: With more than 270 species of animals to meet and greet, the Detroit Zoo is as family-friendly as it gets. Casinos: Let the good times roll at one of the city's popular casinos, including the MGM Grand, Motor City Casino, and the Greek town casino.

Take some time to venture off the beaten path during your Michigan family vacation. The state features dozens of quirky attractions for the adventurous, including Planet Walk in Lansing, Michigan. The educational attraction makes learning fun by allowing kids of all ages the chance to stroll near a scale model of the solar system complete with an oversized basketball-sized sun. The 45-minute tour begins at the Impression 5 Museum and ends at Lansing's Potter Park Zoo.

Another of Michigan's extremely popular hot spots is Hell. Created in 1841 by an avant-garde resident, Hell has since turned into a quirky tourist town complete with an ice cream shop called Screams where you can get a chocolate sundae served straight out of a coffin. You can also visit the Michigan Hearse Enthusiast Club or stop by the general store in the winter to buy a shirt that reads: "I saw Hell freeze over."

A trip to Michigan with the entire family doesn't have to be a budget buster. If you are flexible with your travel dates you can score incredible deals, even during the height of the popular winter and summer seasons. Another way to save while exploring the great state of Michigan is to consider camping. Pitch a tent with the kids or rent a cabin in the great outdoors. Michigan has some of the best campgrounds in the country and the prices can't be beat. Finally, don't limit your vacation options to the state's most populous cities. Michigan is chock-full of cool little communities that can create great family memories. To find out more about them visit the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

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Affordable Family Vacations in Hawaii

Affordable family vacations in Hawaii are possible with a little research and planning.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not hard to keep an entire family entertained in Hawaii without breaking the bank. The island paradise boasts a number of ways to save while vacationing with multiple generations. From lodging to food, entertainment to souvenirs, the following tips will help make your dream of taking an affordable family vacation in Hawaii, a reality:

The "Aloha State" is home to a bevy of beautiful resorts. However, these sprawling properties, which boast everything, from dolphin swimming adventures to ocean-front multi-room suites with private butlers, don't come cheap. If you are toting the entire family to Hawaii, then consider staying at a budget hotel or condo with an attached kitchenette. Having a small refrigerator, microwave, and cooktop at your disposable will help save big bucks by allowing you to prepare meals in your room. What's more, most families visiting Hawaii rarely spend much time in their hotel rooms when there's so much to see and do around the island.

Eating out can really add up when you are vacationing in Hawaii. If you have a large family, skip the traditional sit-down restaurants and opt to dine at the state's popular "lunch wagons." These food trucks pepper the streets and beaches of Hawaii with affordable, yet delectable, menu items. You will be shocked by how large the serving portions are. A typical combo plate sells for five dollars and includes a number of island favorites, including Hawaiian Kalua Pork and Korean Short Ribs on a bed of fresh island cabbage, plus two scoops of rice, and a scoop of macaroni/potato salad. The massive meal will leave you and your wallet full.

Forget about shopping at local souvenir shops for trinkets to bring home from your family vacation to Hawaii. Some of the best deals on souvenirs can be found at area farmers' markets. In addition to selling fresh pineapple, papayas and other local fruit, which vendors will box up for you to ship home, the markets are filled with handcrafted Hawaiian mementos that appeal to everyone in the family, from authentic hula skirts to shell necklaces and hand carved toys made from local woods. Also, forget about purchasing a flower lei from the airport to take back home. Rather, by buying one at a local farmers' market you are guaranteed fresh flowers at drastically reduced prices.

Hawaii boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world, and most of them don't cost a dime to visit. Families can spend the entire day at Hawaii's beaches for free while soaking up the sun, enjoying powder-soft sand, island breezes and miles of unspoiled views of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to the gorgeous beaches, the state also offers a number of other attractions free of charge, including the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The 12-acre zoo is home to more than 80 animal species, including the endangered Nene bird and white Bengal Tiger.

For clans with active-duty or retired military members, scoring affordable family vacations in Hawaii is a breeze. The 50th state has one of the most generous military discount programs in the world, which makes visiting the tropical paradise down right cheap for veterans. From hotels to rental cars, popular tourist attractions to restaurants, the savings for military personnel are huge. For example, Hawaii's Hale Koa Hotel, located near famed Waikiki Beach, operates for the exclusive use of retired and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, and National Guard. Rooms there cost 50 percent less than ones at comparable properties throughout the state. Adding to the savings is the fact that guests at the Hale Koa are exempt from paying Hawaii sales tax on rooms.

In Hawaii "ohana" means family, and that's exactly how you are treated when you visit the Pacific paradise. Hawaii's Aloha spirit is palpable in its warm and friendly people and litany of family-friendly vacation options.

If you are looking to escape to a safe vacation destination with an exotic feel, then check out the following reputable websites, which offer discount vacation packages to Hawaii for frugal families:

Another way to save is to make friends with a local travel agent who can contact you when special deals to Hawaii become available.

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Tampa, Florida Travel Guide

Tampa, Florida is a dream escape for anyone longing for fun in the sun. The tropical vacation destination is located along the Gulf of Mexico and boasts a bevy of spectacular attractions, restaurants and shops. Regardless of your age, the west central Florida city will keep you coming back for more, year after year.

From family-friendly amusement parks, gorgeous beaches, awe-inspiring natural areas and a host of professional sports teams, Tampa has something for everyone.

You don’t have to look far to entertain kids in Tampa. The city is home to the uber-popular theme park Busch Gardens, which features several major thrill rides, as well as an African animal park and a children’s area complete with a massive tree house. If that’s not wild enough for your brood then head to:

The Florida Aquarium: This undersea wonderland is filled with more than 20,000 plants and sea creatures housed in fresh and saltwater environments. It also boasts dozens of interactive exhibits, including a million-gallon coral reef display. If you are truly adventurous, then consider signing up to dive with denizens of the deep in the aquarium’s Shark Bay exhibit.Hillsborough River: Nature lovers will enjoy getting up close and personal with the residents living along the Hillsborough River. Spend the day navigating the historic waterway in a rented canoe, and meet popular riverside residents such as herons, deer, otters and a variety of other animals.

Taming your inner shopping beast is a breeze thanks to the vast array of stores Tampa has to offer, including:

Hyde Park Village: Located in one of Tampa's oldest neighborhoods, Hyde Park Village is a mecca for popular retailers. Follow the shopping center’s luxurious outdoor pathways to familiar stores, such as Restoration Hardware, Anthropologie, Williams-Sonoma, and Brooks Brothers.International Plaza: If you have money to burn in the sizzling Tampa heat, then head to International Plaza. The city’s premier shopping center is adjacent to Tampa International Airport and attracts hundreds of thousands of shoppers to its upscale stores, including Tiffany and Co., Burberry and Neiman Marcus.Swiss Chalet Gift Shop/Tampa Bay Visitors Center: The unique structure does double duty as a superbly stocked souvenir shop and information center. Not only can you purchase one-of-a-kind local merchandise and staples, such as stamps, cameras, and postcards, but you can also buy tickets to tours, shows and other area attractions.

The combination of blue skies, soft sea breezes and crashing waves is enough to whet anyone’s appetite. Fortunately, Tampa is home to a variety of different restaurants that offer culinary masterpieces from around the world, including:

Columbia Restaurant: The southern city is heavily influenced by the Spanish culture, and the Columbia Restaurant is no exception. Family-owned and operated since 1905, the iconic eatery offers colorful ethnic dishes such as paella and Spanish soup with garbanzos and chorizo.Catch Twenty Three: Located in trendy West Park Village the stylish seafood restaurant is a tropical paradise in and of itself. Island music plays in the background while servers dish up everything under the sea, from fresh calamari and shrimp scampi to yellow tail snapper and seared mahi.Pink Flamingo Cafe: If you are looking for cheap eats that are packed with flavor, then visit the Pink Flamingo. As the name implies, the restaurant is home to dozens of pale wading birds. However, the flamingos are not the only draw. The cafe serves up tasty down home dishes, including corned beef hash, turkey melts and crab cake Benedicts.

Nighttime is hot, hot, hot in Tampa. When the sun goes down on the Florida city, you can let the rhythm move you at one of Tampa’s flashiest clubs, including:

Club Prana: From Latin to hip-hop, reggae and pop, Club Prana plays it all. The five-story, high-tech club features multiple dance floors, a rooftop bar, celebrity DJs, and an endless drink menu.Orpheum: Live music rules at the top-rated Orpheum. Local and national musicians take turns heating up the dance floor with their tunes. In addition, the club boasts a huge selection of draft beers, as well as several unique tropical libations.Empire & Climax: This massive nightclub is a haven for Tampa’s night owls. Aside from its powerful sound system and enthusiastic DJs, the two-story club also has areas where you can play darts, drink and mingle.

Before you solidify your Tampa travel plans, keep in mind that the Florida hot spot is a year-round vacation destination. Consequently, you will likely run into crowds regardless of when you travel. Fortunately, with so many things to see and do in Tampa, you won’t be bumping elbows with visitors your entire trip. If you are wary of sharing space with large numbers of people, then pick up a Tampa, Florida travel guide or log on to the Tampa Bay Convention & Visitors Bureau’s website to get tips on when to visit popular attractions.

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Day Trips from Knoxville, Tennessee

The third largest city in Tennessee, the Knoxville area is rich with things to do. Situated near the Appalachian Mountain system, outdoor enthusiasts flock to this southern city year-round. If you're staying in the Knoxville area, there are several day trips that are sure to delight.

Knoxville is one of the largest cities in the Appalachia region. Located just 20 minutes for the Great Smoky Mountain range, as well as bordering on three major rivers, those who want to get in touch with the natural side of things will not lack for something to do.

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is within an hour of Knoxville. The park is open year round; however, some campgrounds, trials and roads are closed during the winter, so be sure to check before heading out to the great outdoors. Entrance to the park is free, but if you are doing more than picnicking or hiking, there are fees. There is no shortage of oudoor sports such has hiking, fishing, camping and horse back riding. In addition, the park boasts one of the best collections of log buildings in the United States. There are over 90 structures to visit. You can also pick up a self-guided tour to find out more about this slice of America's past. In addition,

Outside Knoxville runs the Ocoee River, where adventure seekers can opt to take a day trip down its whitewater expanse. The river provides Class III and IV whitewater rafting for those seeking a thrill or two. However, don't go it alone. Use a whitewater rafting guide such as Outdoor Adventure Rafting. They offer guided raft and tube day trips with experienced guides to help you navigate the river. Prices vary according to the length of the trip. Kayakers can also opt to try their hand at the river's whitewaters.

Almost an hour from Knoxville, you'll find the family-friendly town of Gatlinburg. For many, this mountain resort town is the destination for visiting the Smoky Mountains. However, in addition to offering beautiful views, Gatlinburg boasts a host of interesting tourist attractions. There is something for everyone in this not-so-quiet resort town and is definitely worth a trek from Knoxville if you have time.

Those who love the bizarre and fascinating will want to visit the world famous Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum. While the museum itself has 12 galleries and over 500 artifacts to peruse, it's the cluster of buildings that your family might want to explore. In addition to the museum, you can also:

Explore two different mini-golf courses Visit the World Guiness Records Museum Take a ride at Ripley's Moving Theatre Get spooked on the haunted adventure Visit the aquarium

Save money by buying a combo ticket online. You can get a combo ticket for the museum and as many attractions as you'd like to see.

You may have never heard of Pigeon Forge before, but rest assured this town is busting at the seams with quirky, but family-friendly attractions as well as popular destinations that outdoor enthusiasts will love. Rent an ATV, go whitewater rafting or check out some of the locally unique attractions that bring families back to Pigeon Forge.

If you're wanting a theme park experience with a bit of southern charm, try Dollywood. The Dollywood Theme Park boasts rollercoasters, great entertainment and shows, and kiddie rides. Tickets for the day will run you around $60 for adults and $50 for children. The season passes are priced considerably lower, and are well worth it if you think you can make it back in one season.

If nautical history is your thing, you aren't going to want to miss the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge. The museum is a living history museum, in that it boasts costumed interpreters that help bring the story of the Titanic to life. Tickets will cost around $23 for adults and $12 for children. However, if you make your reservations in advance (which is highly recommended as they tend to sell out very quickly), then you can buy a family pass for $60 which will cover two adults and two children.

Zorb is literally not for the faint of heart. In fact, you need to sign a consent form and general liability waiver to do it. However, if adventure sports if your thing, Zorb Smokey Mountains might be what you're looking for. At Smokey Moutnain Zorb, you can roll down a hill in a giant inflatable ball with your buddies or alone. Your purhcase tickets per ride, and some rides require special types of clothing. The minimum age is 8 and the maximum weight is 220.

Cades Cove is an isolated valley at the base of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the most frequented area of the national park due to not only the beautiful scenery, but also to the historical significance of Cades Cove to the area. From Civil War monuments to reminders of a village that once was, Cades Cove is a favorite hiking destination.

For many families, Knoxville is the perfect combination of pristine natural wonders, and great family fun. No matter what time of year you go, you'll never run out of stuff to do. To keep up to day on special hotel offers, events and local attractions, make sure to sign up for the free visitors and tourists guide.

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Spring Break Vacation Deals

Finding super spring break vacation deals is one of the best ways to cure the winter blues. Finding a way to get some much needed sunshine in the middle of winter is easier than you might think!

By March, most people are tiring of Old Man Winter's bitter chill and are looking to escape to warmer climates. Spring break is one of the best times to jet off to sunny destinations to recharge your batteries. Whether you are a college coed, who wants to party your break away, or you're simply looking to take the kids on a quick getaway to the sand and surf, the following popular spring break destinations are sure to please:

Panama City Beach has held on to the title of "No.1 Domestic Spring Break Destination" since the 1990s. Not only does the area offer one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, it also boasts a number of family-friendly attractions, including museums and animal encounter programs. In addition, to the silky sand and cobalt blue waters, Florida is also home to Walt Disney World and a host of other popular theme parks, which attract kids of all ages.

Cancun is the premier spring break vacation destination in the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its turquoise waters, powder soft beaches, and sun-drenched blue skies, Cancun is a thrill seeker's dream vacation destination. The sunny locale offers a variety of water sports, jungle tours, catamaran rides, and cliff diving opportunities. Meanwhile, those looking for a more serene setting can explore Cabo San Lucas, which boasts a slew of upscale resorts and miles of luxurious beaches.

The Aloha State's diverse topography offers something for every traveler despite age and budget. From surfing to scuba diving, hiking, biking or simply relaxing on the beach with a tropical libation, Hawaii provides the perfect setting for a variety of popular spring break activities. What's more, since it is part of the United States you don't have to worry about passports or tightened foreign security when traveling to paradise.

Whether you are traveling with multiple generations or you are looking to spend a long weekend by yourself, California offers plenty of affordable spring break options. In addition to the family-friendly theme parks, including Disneyland, Legoland and Universal Studios, California is home to miles of pristine beaches, dozens of top-notch ski resorts and some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, such as the San Diego Zoo and Yosemite National Park.

Fortunately, spring breakers on a budget can find a number of money-saving deals to the aforementioned destinations, including:

Group deals: If you are planning to travel with six or more people, then look into group deals. A number of travel companies offer discounts to large groups if they book together. Savings range between 10 to upwards of 25 percent of rack rates. All-inclusive: Another great way to save on a spring break vacation is to visit an all-inclusive resort, such as Sandals or Couples. One price covers hotel lodging, meals, beverages, activities, tips, and in some cases, air and ground transportation. Package deals: These deals bundle flight, hotel and rental car fees, so you are paying reduced rates for all aspects of your spring break getaway. You can look to save up to 60 percent off on air travel and hotel accommodations with package deals than if you were to pay separately for each entity.

Spring break vacation deals can be found all over the Internet, including these top travel websites:

In addition, you can often snag great spring break deals by contacting reputable travel agents. A good travel agent will discuss your vacation needs and wants and help design a getaway that will come in under budget, but won't skimp on fabulous features.

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Yosemite National Park Day Trips

With so much to see and do in the expansive 760,000-acre park, taking a day trip of Yosemite is possible, but not highly recommended. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a try. There are ways to explore the legendary travel spot in a single day, though most require research, careful planning, and a can-do spirit.

Ideally, a trip to Yosemite National Park would include a few days to wander the 1,200 square miles at your leisure. However, most visitors don't have the luxury of strolling through the entire park for days at a time. Rather, many tourists prefer to experience as much of the park as possible in a single day. The trick to accomplishing this feat is to prioritize and organize. Once you know exactly what you want to see and how you want to view it, you can select from one of several Yosemite National Park day trips, including:

Yosemite is known around the world for its spectacular waterfalls. According to the National Park Service, more than 3.5 million people travel to Yosemite each year to view the stunning water features. It is possible to tour all of the park's falls in a single day by driving to each and then walking on the public trails. Sample tours include:

Bridalveil Fall: The paved trail spans .5 miles round-trip and takes about 20 minutes to complete. You start in the parking area and climb to the base of the falls which flows year-round. Expect an easy hike in spring and early summer; however, you may encounter icy conditions in winter. Lower Yosemite Fall: This one-mile trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible and takes about 30 minutes to complete round-trip. The falls trickle from July through August, but gush during early spring. Upper Yosemite Fall: Hiking to this amazing waterfall is only recommended if you are in good health. The 7.2-mile hike is strenuous and can take up to six hours to complete depending on how fast you climb. However, the pay-off for your work is unbeatable, as the trail leads to the top of North America's tallest waterfall. Vernal Fall: This trail to this falls is closed during winter, though in the spring and summer you can find excellent views of Vernal Fall from the footbridge located about a mile from the start of the trail. Beyond the bridge there is a steep granite stairway consisting of more than 600 steps which will lead you to an area that offers unprecedented views of the waterfall.

If you are looking to really make your day trip to Yosemite a unique adventure, then consider touring the majestic park by mule. You can saddle up with these options:

Two-hour ride to Mirror Lake: Ideal for seniors or those looking for a gentle ride with unique photo opportunities. Two-hour Tuolumne Meadows trail ride: Offers excellent views of Yosemite's high country, including Cathedral Range, Johnson Peak and Mammoth Peaks. Half-day ride to Clark's Point: Features amazing views of Vernal Fall, though it comes at a price. The trail is rather rough and includes scaling a steep slope. It is best suited to riders in good physical shape Half-day ride to Twin Bridges: Opportunities to take excellent pictures of the surrounding scenery are behind every rock and tree. These rides are by advanced reservation only. Please call the Tuolumne Stables to make your reservation

Keep in mind that all mule riders must be seven years old and at least 44 inches tall. In addition, guests over 225 pounds cannot be accommodated on the mules.

Take your day trip to Yosemite to new heights by partaking in a rock climbing adventure you'll remember forever. Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service has been a staple at the park since 1969. Knowledgeable guides offer rock climbing lessons and supervised climbs that allow you to view Yosemite's most stunning features from unique vantage points. Choose from beginner or advanced climbs that can last from two to seven hours. Climbing gear is available for rent or you can bring your own for all-day ascents. Private lessons are also available.

If your visit to California is severely limited, then consider signing up for a day trip tour which includes transportation to and from the park. Several companies, including Extranomical Tours, will pick you up from select hotels in downtown San Francisco and take you to Yosemite by van. A typical day trip includes a fully guided tour of Yosemite National Park with commentary, photo ops of Half-Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, plus a hike to a Giant Sequoias grove.

Most guests choose to pack a picnic and refuel at one of Yosemite's many awe-inspiring scenic points. However, if you prefer, you can dine at one of the parks top-rated restaurants. Upscale options include:

Ahwahnee Dining Room: Fine dining is offered year-round at the historic hotel. Yosemite Lodge: Casual dining is featured all-day and includes hot and cold entrees, sandwiches, bakery and dessert items. Curry Village Pavilion: Serves all-you-can-eat buffet service for breakfast and dinner daily from late March to November. Glacier Point Snack Stand: The informal eatery is only open during the summer and fall. It features hot dogs, sandwiches, beverages, and other small snacks.

If you are planning to tour Yosemite during the summer months prepare for a lot of company. Large crowds descend on the natural wonder from late May through early September. Those looking for more peaceful day trips should plan to visit during the month of October and from March through late April. Finally, keep in mind that many of the recreational adventures are only offered from April through October, so plan your trip accordingly.

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