Thứ Năm, 31 tháng 10, 2019

Top 10 things to do in Eureka Springs

A city full of natural and cultural attractions in the extreme northwestern part of Arkansas, Eureka Springs is a resort city named after the abundance of surrounding mineral lakes.

The same therapeutic properties that attracted indigenous cultures and settlers to this Ozark Mountains hideaway still attract tourists today, and visitors of all ages often appreciate the history here. The city's attractive downtown area is lined with historic Victorian buildings, small museums, and Central Basin Spring Park. Other nearby places to visit include the Eureka Railway and North Arkansas Railway, the inspiring Thorncrown Chapel and the famous Passion Game.

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1. Thorncrown Chapel

A beautiful place of worship and spirituality, the Thorncrown Chapel is a 48-foot tall wooden structure with 425 windows and 6,000 square feet of glass. This awe of true architecture allows for ample light inside and gives a truly open feeling to the surrounding Ozark forest setting.

Designed by renowned architect E. Fay Jones, the chapel hosts public Sunday Services from April to December and is available for weddings throughout the year. Every member of the public is encouraged to check out the impressive design of this woodland chapel, and plenty of parking for RVs and buses can be found nearby.

Address: 12968 Highway 62 West, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


2. Downtown Eureka Springs

The historic downtown area of Eureka Springs is a central attraction of the city. The aesthetics of the 1900s Victorian architecture lining Spring and Main Streets makes for an excellent backdrop for many kinds of downtown experiences.

Local storefronts, eclectic shops, and specialty boutiques comprise many of the shopping opportunities downtown, which is only rivaled by the generous selection of local eateries and evening entertainment. Spring Park in the city center is a great place to relax between shopping excursions or listening to live music from under the covers.

Walking tours are a popular way to experience Eureka Springs city center, ranging from historical underground tours to guided tours of the city's haunted side. Eureka Springs trolleys and outdoor tram tours offered by the city are great ways to see some local attractions.

Festivals, celebrations, and community spirit can also be found downtown, including an annual festival of the arts, seasonal parades, and memorable Mardi Gras celebrations.


3. The Great Passion Play

The Great Passion Play brings to life the epic drama surrounding Christ's death and resurrection. Performed in an outdoor amphitheater, the play is based on the Old Testament prophecies and New Testament accounts of the last seven days of Jesus of Nazareth prior to, and including His ascension.

Hosting numerous concerts throughout the year, there are numerous opportunities to attract this Christian appeal including a multi-level stage, live animals and 150 trained actors.

Plenty of other attractions at The Great Passion Play also give it a family-friendly reputation, including the larger than life Christ of the Ozarks monument. You can also take part in a Complete Immersive Sanctuary Tour with a life-size replica of the East Gate in Jerusalem and an authentic Market to explore.

Hiking trails, Ark Ark's zoo and Sacred Art Museum are also available for year-round experiences at The Great Passion Play.

Address: 935 Passion Play Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


4. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Serving as a sanctuary for big cats and other large animals, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is home to abandoned, abused, and neglected tigers, lions, leopards, and cougars, as well as bears and bobcats.

Visitors to the Wildlife Refuge have many ways to interact with the resident animals and learn more about their species. Guided habitat tours take place daily at Turpentine Creek, and exclusive backstage tours take place on weekends.

The wildlife refuge also hosts numerous special events throughout the year, which help fund Turpentine's efforts, including a kite-flying festival, blues weekend, and various educational programming.

Address: 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


5. Blue Spring Heritage Center

Composed of beautiful gardens, local history, and a vast natural spring, the Blue Springs Heritage Center has been a tourist attraction for over 70 years. Before attracting tourists and residents of Eureka Springs, spring was considered the sacred space of Native American tribes and tourism.

The history of Blue Spring is fully displayed with each visit, including the historical artifacts, exhibits, and remnants of an old factory that was once powered by moving water. Different gardens are also worth a visit and just over a mile of trail link different garden beds.

Address: 1537 County Road 210, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


6. Basin Spring Park

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Just before the city was merged, the mineral water found in what is now known as the Spring Basin drew indigenous cultures and settlers and paved the way for the prosperous city to be found. nowadays.

Now a central downtown park incorporating benches, a bandshell, and the original spring encased by concrete and a fountain, this city park provides a scenic resting opportunity between downtown excursions and serves as a great starting point for other nearby attractions.

Walking tours usually start at Spring Park and public spaces host community celebrations, including live music and holiday festivals.

Address: 4 Spring Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


7. Quigley's Castle

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and noted as the "the Ozark's strangest dwelling," Quigley's Castle was the dream home of Elise Quigley, an Italian immigrant with a passion for gardening.

Perennial gardens surround the home, with lovely roads, benches and other features. Inside the house are full-sized tropical plants and trees, sprouting from the natural ground on the first floor. Displayed indoors are a number of unique collections, including butterflies, crystals, fossils, glassware, and arrowheads.

Open March through November, visitors can take a self-guided tour of this quaint and memorable residence.

Address: 274 Quigley Castle Road, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


8. Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway Company

Located a mile from downtown Eureka Springs, this historic warehouse and passenger facility allows visitors to get a glimpse of what life was like when the rail service arrived in Eureka Springs in 1883.

The repository can view a stock collection, a revolving turntable, scooter, and a car equipped to run on rails. Practical experience when visiting the warehouse comes from daily scheduled trips, including a sightseeing train, lunch train, and special dinner train.

Baggage Room Gift Shop is also available at the depot for locomotive-related memorabilia and keepsakes.

Address: 299 North Main Street, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


9. Onyx Cave Park

First discovered in 1891 and organized tours since 1893, Onyx Cave is just a short distance east of Eureka Springs and offers family-friendly opportunities to see some features. Amazing cave and wildlife. The cave is small, and visitors can walk through it with relative ease on a self-guided tour that takes about a half-hour or less.

Onyx Cave also has a famous Gem Panning station outside the cave, which attracts both children and adults. A newly renovated gift shop at the cave has a variety of gems, jewelry and photo opportunities with a large set of Amethyst Angel Wings.

Address: 338 Onyx Cave Lane, Eureka Springs, Arkansas


10. Exploring the Outdoors

Hiking, biking, and water activities are some of the most popular ways to explore the great outdoors surrounding Eureka Springs, and miles of trails can be found both sprawlings throughout the city and immediate surrounding area.

The 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa has one of the densest collections of hiking trails in the city, and the scenic Lake Leatherwood provides both mountain biking and hiking routes and access to the water.

Entertainment venues other prominent around Hot Springs include Buffalo National River, Ozark National Forest and many underworlds to explore, such as Onyx Cave and Cave space.


More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Wichita



from : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-eureka-springs-2-702557.html

from Wiki Topx

Top 10 things to do in Portland

There are a lot of fantastic things to do in Portland, it is almost impossible to name them all. We are still gonna try.

You can spend some days browsing handmade wares in Pearl District and exploring lush park and garden or cycling between some of the city’s 63 breweries. The list goes on, but we wont not. Ready to keep it weird in PDX? We’ve narrowed your must-see list down to the 20 best things to do in Portland.


1. The Shanghai Tunnels

This network of underground catacombs was supposedly used for nefarious purposes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and is now one of Portland's must-visit, and most unique tours.

Because it's one of Portland's not-so-well-kept secrets with an intriguing backstory. Cue dimmed lights and a torch beneath the chin: legend says that a dark secret lurks beneath Portland’s streets, where many an unsuspecting (or inebriated) Portlander would wake up to find himself aboard a merchant ship bound for the Orient—a process known as Shanghaiing. Step inside the Shanghai Tunnels and you'll come face to face with this subterranean world, from hidden trapdoors to holding cells – just be sure to look over your shoulder.


2. Voodoo Doughnut

From bacon and maple syrup to bubble gum, the doughnut menu at Voodoo looks more like Willy Wonka’s to-do list.

Most of these flavors shouldn’t work. But somehow they do—incredibly well. Voodoo Doughnut now has six locations, but aficionados head to the much-loved original store on Portland’s SW Third Avenue for their sugar fix. If it’s your first time, go for the classic Voodoo Doll, a chocolate-covered confection shaped like said effigy and packed with red jelly.


3. Portland Breweries By Bike

Local operators Pedal Bike Tours and Portland Bicycle Tours offer great guided options within the Rose City. Both companies run food- and drink-centric tours—including one in which you pedal between Portland’s best microbreweries, building up a suitable thirst en route—but if you don’t see one you like, they can create a customized themed ride.


4. Portland Art Museum

Founded in 1892, the Portland Art Museum is the oldest in the Pacific Northwest, and impressively, one of the oldest galleries nationally, too. With a vast array of works on display (contemporary, modern and ancient pieces - and more than 45,000 of them) there's enough to keep you busy for an entire day.


5. Pok Pok

The perfect accompaniment for whisky sodas, Pok Pok serves intensely flavoured Thai food which can excite even the most discerning tastebuds. More than a decade since opening, Pok Pok is still one of the hottest meal tickets in town (and a lot of fun, too). Order the outstanding laap meuang, (northern Thai minced pork salad), with a side helping of the phenomenal Vietnamese fish-sauce wings, which have become something of a social media sensation in their own right.


6. Powell’s City of Books

Bookworms can find plenty to do in this labyrinthine store. In the Purple Room, check out the Espresso Book Machine, which you can use to publish your own book in the time it takes to make a cup of coffee. The Rare Book Room has plenty of signed volumes if you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind gift.


7. Cup & Bar

The confectioner-cum-roastery has become one of the most popular spots in town since opening in 2015.

Cup & Bar caters to two of our favorite vices: locally roasted coffee and bean-to-bar chocolate. A collaboration between local companies Trailhead Coffee and Ranger Chocolate, it sells all kinds of delicious handmade treats from its quirky premises. The place also serves up chocolate in liquid form for the most indulgent drink you’ll ever have—trust us on this one.


8. Multnomah Whiskey Library

The Multnomah Whiskey Library stocks an incredible selection of more than 2,000 bottles of the liquor from around the world.

This beautiful bar exudes sophistication and old-school class—plus, it's already known one of the finest whiskey bars in the world. If all libraries were like this, we’d be a lot more studious.


9. Portland Center Stage

This local company performs contemporary and classic plays year round.

Portland has plentiful performing arts options, from the wonderful Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, a.k.a. the Schnitz, to the Oregon Ballet Theater. But the most dramatic setting is undoubtedly the Gerding Theater in the city’s old armory. Already on the National Register of Historic Places, the building has attracted lavish praise from the architecture world for its intelligent renovation. The reviews are equally as glowing for the theater’s resident company, Portland Center Stage.


10. Revolution Hall

The iconic 113,500-square-foot brick school on SE Stark Street was extensively renovated before starting a new life as a music venue.

Portlanders have been going back to school in droves—namely, George Washington High School, which reopened as live music venue Revolution Hall in 2015 and has since counted Neko Case and Andrew W.K. among its headliners. It sure beats sneaking a beer behind the cafeteria.


See also: Top 10 things to do in Wichita



from : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-portland-702538.html

from Wiki Topx

Top 10 cheap hotels in Syracuse NY

It’s time to rally your passion.

Look for life, the shining moments and celebrate them in a place where true colors never hide; a place where the spirit of independence and an energetic community come together perfectly. It is where you find your center. Reconnect the dots with really important things and create memories on historic streets.

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1. Jefferson Clinton Hotel

Jefferson Clinton Hotel is located in Historic Armory Square, the hotel is surrounded by restaurants, shopping malls, stores, museums, and exciting evening entertainment.

All of our rooms have premium mattresses with three sheets, large TVs with premium channels and complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Each guest receives our free hot breakfast buffet with omelets on order.

All of our rooms have premium mattresses with three sheets, large TVs with premium channels and complimentary high-speed wireless internet access. Each guest receives our complimentary hot buffet breakfast with made-to-order omelets.


2. Residence Inn Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square

Residence Inn Armory Square offers 1 & 2-bedroom suites in downtown Syracuse. Our complimentary hot breakfast, indoor pool & fitness center allow you to maintain your daily routine.

Valet parking, flexible meeting space, on-site bar, seating area & outdoor courtyard and set us apart from other Syracuse hotels. Free Wi-Fi and Marriott’s interactive GoBoardTM keep you connected.


3. Courtyard Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square

The Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Syracuse is located in Armory Square near University Hill, hospitals and central business district.

Differences in its location and amenities, including an indoor pool, parking and outdoor seating, the new hotel in Syracuse is within walking distance to dozens of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and Marriott's digital GoBoard™.


4. Parkview Hotel, BW Premier Collection

Property Renovated October 2018! Now part of the BW Premier Collection, Best Western's most exclusive hotel collection. Parkview Hotel is located in the heart of it all, between Syracuse University and Syracuse City Center, offering guests the perfect combination of comfort and service in a classic hotel that is clearly a fish, multiply.

Relax by the fireplace in our inviting lobby, wake up each morning and enjoy a deluxe hot breakfast (on the house!), and don't forget to savor our delicious dinner menu and drink selection in our laid-back restaurant.

Upstairs, our handsome guest rooms are the largest city center providing you with space and comfort to feel at home. (We're pet-friendly, too.) On-site parking is free and so is our friendly and professional shuttle service.

Whether you’re here for work or fun, we are sure to become your favorite Syracuse destination. Parkview Hotel - Style and sophistication have in Downtown Syracuse.


5. Holiday Inn Express Syracuse / Fairgrounds

Ferris wheels, hot funnel wheels and big-name performers like Maroon 5 & Train are waiting for you at the New York State Fair, just a stone's throw from Holiday Inn Express® Syracuse - Fairgrounds Hotel in Warners, NY.

Our hotel's convenient location off I-90 and quick access to I-690 means commuting in and out of the city is a breeze.


5. Comfort Inn Fairgrounds

See why so many travelers make Comfort Inn Fairgrounds their hotel when visiting Syracuse. Offering an ideal blend of value, comfort, and convenience, it provides a budget-friendly setting with a range of amenities designed for travelers like you.

The rooms have facilities like a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and a fridge, and guests can access online with free WiFi provided by the hotel.


6. Best Western The Inn At The Fairgrounds

Inn At The Fairgrounds Hotel is a family-friendly hotel offering a flat-screen TV and air conditioning in the rooms, and it is easy to stay connected during your stay as free wifi is offered to guests.

The hotel features a 24-hour front desk and room service. Plus, guests can enjoy a hot tub and free breakfast, which have made this a popular choice among travelers visiting Syracuse.

For guests with cars, free parking is available. Syracuse has plenty of seafood restaurants. So when you're here, be sure to check out famous spots like Fish Cove and Poke Noodle, which are serving some great food.

If you’re looking for things to do, you can check out New York State Fairgrounds (0.5 mi), which is a popular attraction amongst tourists, and it is within walking distance. The staff at Best Western The Inn At The Fairgrounds look forward to serving you on your upcoming visit.


7. Hampton Inn & Suites Syracuse Dewitt

Stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Syracuse Dewitt and get complimentary high-speed Internet access in each room. Have a good night's sleep in a clean and fresh Hampton bed and enjoy our range of attentive services and amenities.

Keep up with your room work with our handy desk or relax with your favorite shows on the LCD flat-screen TV. Upgrade to a set for separate living and sleeping areas, more space and flexibility.

Take advantage of our range of efficient services to help you stay more comfortable. Start each day with a delicious free hot Hampton breakfast and taste our world-famous waffles. Even when you're in a hurry, don't miss the most important meal of the day.

On the way out, simply grab one of our free Hampton On the Run® Breakfast Bags, available Monday to Friday, for a quick, healthy meal. Swim laps in the indoor swimming pool after a long day.


8. Hotel Skyler Syracuse, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

You've never been to a place like Hotel Skyler Syracuse, Hilton's Tapestry Collection. In the serene and welcoming lobby, industrial minimalism meets organic comfort. Retro and metro mingle cozily in one-of-a-kind guestrooms.

From the moment you check in until you reluctantly say goodbye, you'll know you're somewhere special - somewhere designed to nurture the spirit and the planet. You're at Hotel Skyler Syracuse, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Syracuse's first LEED Platinum hotel.

Every guest room has a safe, iron/ironing board, iHome clock radio, walk-in shower, flat-panel TV, HDTV, and free high-speed wired and wireless internet, refrigerator, and desk. Start each day with a complimentary Artisan Style Breakfast served in the Main Lobby.


9. Quality Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds

If you are looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Syracuse, look no further than Quality Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds. The accommodation has facilities like a flat-screen TV and guests can access online with free wifi provided by the hotel.

Quality Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds has a 24-hour front desk, newspapers and luggage storage, to make your stay more enjoyable. The hotel also boasts a pool and free breakfast.

If you are driving to Quality Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds, there will be available free parking. During your visit, check out one of the closest restaurants within walking distance of Quality Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds, such as Marcella's (0.3 mi) or Chinese Restaurant H & K (0.9 mi).

If you're looking for something to do, Clinton Square and the Niagara Mohawk Building are a good way to spend time. The staff at Quality Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds look forward to serving you on the upcoming visit.


10. Red Roof Inn Syracuse

Syracuse is the commercial and cultural center of downtown New York, and Red Roof Syracuse is convenient for many of Syracuse's attractions! LeMoyne College, Hancock International Airport, and SUNY Health Sciences are within 10 minutes; the Amtrak Station and Carousel Center are 10 miles from the hotel, and Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse University, and the Carrier Dome are within 15 miles.

Red Roof Syracuse is located within minutes from shopping malls and many restaurants. Friendly staff ensures guests feel confident, meaningful and happy. Red Roof Syracuse is renovated with all new rooms, contemporary furniture, new bathrooms with granite countertops, a comfortable easy chair and more.

All rooms have free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. Experience our coffeehouse-style coffee and tea. This location offers “On Command Video” with a selection of free TV channels, pay-to-view premium channels, and movies, as well as music and games. One well-behaved family pet per room is welcome.


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from : https://wikitopx.com/hotels/top-10-cheap-hotels-in-syracuse-ny-702539.html

from Wiki Topx

Top 10 things to do in Wichita

Wichita Falls, Texas is located in the northeast corner of the Panhandle/Plains area of North Texas and is a quick, 17-minute drive to the Oklahoma state line.

With a population of over 104,000, the city is known as the Gateway to Texas. With its big city attractions and small-town charm, Wichita Falls can be the perfect destination for travelers wanting their first introduction to the Lone Star State. So with that in mind, let’s take a look at the 10 best things to do in Wichita Falls, Texas, that are sure to leave a lasting impression on any tourist.


1. Visit the pride of the city: Kell House Museum

Built in 1909, Kell House Museum grabs the attention of all who pass this grand structure. It displays the history of Wichita Falls, through the eyes of the Kell family, major contributors who shaped the city into what it is today. The Neo-Classical exterior and Victorian-inspired interior are what makes Kell House Museum a real standout. The moment you set foot into Kell House Museum it’s like turning back the clock. Many of the early 20th century features are on display here, including original family furnishings, decorative arts, and historic costumes. Tours are available and history buffs will revel in the rich history Kell House Museum provides.

A special aspect of Kell House Museum is the Santa House, as it’s referred to by the locals. It’s a time during the holiday season when Kell House Museum is decorated with festive trimmings to resemble the way it looked during Christmastime, 100 years ago. Adding to the holiday celebrations, Kell House Museum also features an exciting, one-night only, candle-led tour through the historic house.


2. Splash and splurge at Castaway Cove Waterpark

Castaway Cove Waterpark is the only place to be when it’s summertime in Wichita Falls and it has something for everyone. For family fun, there’s Buccaneer Bay, a tropical-themed wonderland with slides, crawl-through tunnels, and interactive water features. For the thrill-seekers, there’s Pirate’s Plunge, a daring water slide that starts with a 37 foot (11 meter) vertical drop, followed by a 360-degree loop. Storm Watch Tower is not for the faint-of-heart, as this open and enclosed serpentine and corkscrew tube propels you through daylight to darkness, at lightning speed!

There’s also the Castaway Café, which has an ample supply of burgers, hot dogs, and other hearty offerings that most crave after battling the waves. A refreshment counter has fresh squeezed lemonade, which is a real treat on a very hot day. And there’s the Tropical Bar that keeps an array of beers, from domestic to craft, on ice. Wine and other favorite frozen drinks are available, too.

So when the thermometer rises, Castaway Cove Waterpark is your best bet for staying cool.


3. Enjoy Lucy Park and the Falls under the big Texas sky

A visit to Texas means enjoying the great outdoors and Lucy Park is the place to do just that. Located in the center of the city, Lucy Park is a large, picturesque area with a wide variety of healthy activities, such as biking and hiking. A golf course, playground, and both sand and concrete volleyball courts are also available. Lucy Park offers wonderful picnicking facilities. There’s even a log cabin that can be reserved for parties, which is sure to be a big hit with kids.

Lucy Park is located in a bend of the Wichita River. A large pond area, and huge pecan and cottonwood trees give Lucy Park a very natural and rustic beauty. Lucy Park also boasts an impressive swinging bridge that leads across the Big Wichita River. Cross the bridge, then stroll a wonderfully scenic trail that takes you to the Falls.

The Falls is a splendid, man-made, multi-level, waterfall that was built to replace the city’s original Falls, the namesake of the city, destroyed in a flood, in the 1800s. The Falls provide an awesome spot to take a fun selfie or a great backdrop for a wedding photo. It is also a marvelous place to just relax and relish in the serenity of the cascading water.


4. Hardcore nature fans, your place is River Bend Nature Center

If you can’t get enough nature then River Bend Nature Center is a great place to spend an afternoon. River Bend Nature Center utilizes 20 acres (8 hectares) of Lucy Park and it is dedicated to educating and connecting people to the natural beauty of the Texan landscape. A top attraction at River Bend Nature Center is the Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. This state-of-the-art glass structure houses native butterflies, over 100 native plant species, and a display of area wildlife, like prairie dogs, turtles, and quail.

If you’re partial to butterflies, there are more of these colorful creatures to observe at Peyton’s Place. The enclosure allows visitors to walk among swarms of gorgeous butterflies, as they flutter about and sip nectar from the vegetation. Sometimes they even light on visitors! There’s also 17 acres (6.8 hectares) of bottomland forest, wetlands, and nature trails to explore. River Bend Nature Center is surely a nature lover’s delight.


5. Wrestling devotees here is your main event: The Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum

The Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum is dedicated to preserving the history, and honoring the men and women of the no-holds-barred sport of professional wrestling. All the items here, and there are plenty, were donated, or have been loaned, by the wrestlers, their families or fans, from around the world. Boots, belts, and ring jackets, worn by the wrestlers, along with vintage wrestling posters, wrestling masks, and other bits of memorabilia, can be found here! It seems every contributed piece tells a story about the rough and tumble sport.

There’s a Hall of Fame wall, which depicts all the wrestling greats. The museum is staffed with wrestling fans and enthusiasts, so the people are informative, share great stories, and have a level of passion for wrestling that cannot be matched. The entire history of wrestling can be traced at the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum and it is a must-see for any wrestling fan. And because they add stuff on a daily basis, you could go subsequent times and always see something new. Even the littlest wrestling fans can get in on the action, as Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame & Museum offers kids a toy room, where they can experience the thrill of taking pictures of themselves holding a wrestler’s belt!


6. Want to explore a Caboose? Check out the Wichita Falls Railroad Museum

Located in the Historic Depot Square downtown, beside the railroad tracks, is the Wichita Falls Railroad Museum - a truly exciting place for any train enthusiast. Wichita Falls Railroad Museum is known by railroad buffs around the country and around the world. The most exciting part is guests are welcome to climb aboard actual train cars and steam locomotives and explore Pullman Troop sleepers, baggage cars, and cabooses.

Wichita Falls Railroad Museum is comprised of a three-track yard, which houses a collection of 15 railroad rolling stock units, 8 motor car units, and tons of memorabilia. The museum provides a great deal of history on Texas’ railroading past, and the staff also has a few great stories to tell. The gift shop is a great place to discover a multitude of toy trains and many other exciting souvenirs, which depict the history of the Wichita Falls Railroad Museum.


7. Get a dose of culture at the Kemp Center for the Arts

Wichita Falls, to the surprise of some and delight of others, features a robust art community and the Kemp Center for the Arts is at the heart of that society. It is home to the Arts Council and the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra and houses three galleries: the Northlight Gallery, the West End Studio and the What’s Up Downstairs area, where visitors can view permanent and rotating exhibits by local, regional, and even international artists. The outdoor sculpture garden is a highlight and the beautiful, serene spot affords the chance to see artwork, in a natural setting.

The sculpture garden is also a popular stop on the Sculpture Garden After Dark/After Hours Art Walk - a recurring, free event, which offers live music and artwork showings. Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and make it an unforgettable moment on a summer evening. Check the website for dates. The Kemp Center for the Arts’ commitment to the arts stretches beyond accomplished artists, as art classes are hosted here, for both young and old.


8. Sure New York has its tall buildings, but only Wichita Falls has the World's Littlest Skyscraper!

Officially named The Newby-McMahon Building when it was originally constructed in 1919, the World’s Littlest Skyscraper was apparently the result of a fraudulent investment scheme. The con man wrote the dimensions in inches (millimeters) instead of feet (meters) and not one of the investors noticed until it was too late. But that bit of misfortune has resulted in one of Wichita Falls’ most endearing sightseeing attractions. The four-story red brick structure stands just 40 feet (12 meters) tall and has survived tornadoes, fire and years of neglect. It got the nickname World’s Littlest Skyscraper after appearing in the Ripleys Believe It Or Not syndicated column, in the 1920s. Today, it’s a curiosity to the tourists that pass through.

The top floor is a visitors center, so you’re allowed to climb the 48 stairs to the top floor and see a very nice view of downtown Wichita Falls. The owners run an antique store on the first floor and lease the 2nd and 3rd. For the sheer spectacle, the World’s Littlest Skyscraper should be on your list of things to see, when you visit Wichita Falls.


9. The past lives at the Museum of North Texas History

The Museum of North Texas History is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the North Texas area, while also providing a fun and exciting way of getting children and others interested in the community that surrounds them. The museum takes visitors on an exploration of the Texas oil and gas industry and a large military collection displays uniforms and memorabilia. There’s also a space devoted to World War Two’s Battle of Iwo Jima. The entire military collection has artifacts from the Civil War up through the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

On the lighter side, one permanent exhibit not to be missed is Nat’s Hats - a space adorned with over 500 cowboys hats! The collection is from Nat Fleming, who owned Cow Lot Western Wear Store, in Wichita Falls, from 1953 to 2006. The story goes that when you bought a new hat at Nat’s store, Nat tacked the old one on the wall. A horse-drawn buggy, some storefront replicas, and a jewelry box made from the hoof of a stolen horse used in the robbery of a local Wichita Falls bank, in 1898, are also featured here.


10. Alley Cat Vintage Mercantile: An antique lover's dream

Does your heart race when you get a whiff of a musty old book? Do your knees grow weak at the sight of a worn ottoman? If the answer’s yes, then Alley Cat Vintage Mercantile is the perfect place for you. With more than 50,000 square feet (4645 square meters) of vintage, antique and handmade items under one roof, Alley Cat Vintage Mercantile earns high marks from local antique hunters and tourists alike.

Offering a fine selection of vintage kitchenware, books, records, clothing, furniture, and much more, it’s certain you won’t walk out the door empty-handed. There are even a few people who have decorated a good portion of their homes with items found at Alley Cat Vintage Mercantile. The staff is always very helpful and friendly, but what else would you expect - this is Texas!


See also: Top 10 things to do in Washington State



from : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-wichita-702526.html

from Wiki Topx

Top 10 things to do in Washington State

The natural world seems larger than life in the state of Washington.

Sleeping volcanoes like Mount Rainier rise above the horizon, and time seems to stand still in the lush green landscapes of the Hoh Rain Forest on the Olympic Peninsula. The San Juan Islands and Puget Sound offer Pacific Northwest paradises to escape into, and charming cities like Leavenworth, Bellingham, and Port Angeles each offer a unique set of attractions.

Washington attracts millions of tourists each year, and those looking for true adventure can trek across the entire state via the Pacific Crest Trail, or explore the massive environments found in Washington's three acclaimed national parks. Fun things to do and exciting places to visit are found in every direction in Washington, including the more arid eastern side of the state in cities like Spokane. One trip to Washington will never be enough, and with each visit it's easy to discover more of what makes the Evergreen State one of the best to visit in the nation.


1. Olympic National Park

From ocean beaches to glaciered mountaintops, Olympic National Park overflows with incomparable scenery. Iconic coastal areas like Ruby and Rialto Beach define the rugged western edge of the park, only a short drive away from the over-sized trees and abundant foliage found in the Hoh Rain Forest. Other popular attractions at the park include the snowy peaks of Hurricane Ridge and the welcoming waters of Sol Duc Hot Springs.

The hiking trails at Olympic National Park traverse many different landscapes, including a Hall of Mosses and the family-friendly Marymere Falls. An absolute must-do hike for all ages, the Hoh River Trail explores the rain forest and river corridor with a flat path for 13 miles before ascending to the lateral moraine of Blue Glacier on Mount Olympus.
For excellent places to spend the night, the campgrounds at Olympic National Park put visitors close to the awe-inspiring scenery presented by this wild western region of Washington.


2. Seattle Center

Of all the top-rated attractions in Seattle, the Space Needle within the Seattle Center is perhaps the most iconic. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Seattle Center's 74-acre campus contains many popular places to visit, including the Space Needle, Monorail, parklands, museums, and restaurants. Among the newer sightseeing options are the colorful glass artworks at Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Frank O. Gehry designed Museum of Pop Culture.

Other fun things to do at the Seattle Center include a plethora of art installations, various theater and stage accommodations, and multiple garden and fountain settings.


3. San Juan Islands

North of Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands are the best known of Washington's many islands, with the four largest being readily accessible by ferry. Each has a mix of galleries, seafood restaurants, and parks, including San Juan Island National Historic Park where British and American troops became embroiled in the Pig War border dispute.

Popular destinations within the San Juan Islands include Friday Harbor, Eastsound, and Moran State Park, where visitors will find one of the best campgrounds in Washington. Favorite things to do on the San Juan Islands include sea kayaking, whale watching, and dining on local fare.


4. Mount Rainier National Park

Alongside the around-the-mountain Wonderland Trail, other hiking trails at Mount Rainier National Park tour mountain meadows, massive waterfalls, and groves of ancient forests. Four auto-campgrounds comprise some of the best campgrounds at Rainier, as well as several popular spots in the national forests surrounding the park.


5. Seattle Downtown

Here, piers and parks rim the shoreline. Visitors will likely wish to catch an underground tour near Pioneer Square, or a performance at Benaroya Hall. And back on the waterfront, a sea-level exploration takes you from the Olympic Sculpture Park in the north to the Seattle Aquarium and ferry terminal farther south.


6. Leavenworth

After the town of Leavenworth experienced the bust after a boom in the logging industry, city leaders rallied the town and decided to change their image. Today, the town of Leavenworth proudly recognizes itself as a Bavarian Village, and it's common to see residents wearing lederhosen or blowing a morning serenade on an alphorn.

Outdoor recreation is also a main tourist draw to Leavenworth with iconic destinations like the Icicle Gorge and Alpine Lakes Wilderness nearby, home to one of the best hiking trails in Washington state. To the east, the Wenatchee Valley is famed for its apples and hosts the annual Washington State Apple Blossom Festival.


7. North Cascades National Park

The North Cascades are one of the most unspoiled tracts of country in the United States. Anglers, walkers, and nature lovers are all catered for in the national park, which shares a border with British Columbia, Canada. A drive through the park on the North Cascades Scenic Byway is rewarded with some fantastic views. Some of the many highlights of this drive include the Washington Pass Overlook, the aquamarine waters of Ross Lake, and the western-inspired town of Winthrop in the Methow Valley.

Many of the hiking opportunities in the North Cascades are steep, though some of the best hikes in the area also incorporate family-friendly treks with stunning mountain views. The North Cascades Institute within the park offers educational opportunities and overnight visits. Bordering the southern edge of the national park, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is home to one of the deepest lakes in the country and provides a stunning backdrop.


8. Puget Sound

On the western border of the state, separating the Olympic Peninsula and Seattle, Puget Sound is a watery region filled with inlets, islands, and unique worlds to discover. Some of the things to do in Puget Sound include sea kayaking, whale watching, and visiting the vibrant communities that define the islands. An extensive ferry system accesses the different destinations in Puget Sound, allowing for easy day trips and island hopping.

Whidbey Island, the largest in the sound, is home to the friendly towns of Oak Harbor and Coupeville, and exciting outdoor attractions like Deception Pass State Park. For a look into the native cultures that once inhabited the region, Tillicum Village on Blake Island Marine State Park delivers, with authentic salmon feasts and cultural celebrations.


9. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Almost 150 square miles of forest was destroyed, houses were overwhelmed by masses of water and mud, and 57 people lost their lives. The landscape of Mount St.

It is even possible to climb Mount St. Helens, though permits are required. Visitor centers along Spirit Lake Highway (SR 504) provide further insight into the disaster, including Johnston Ridge Observatory, where it is possible to peer into the crater on a clear day.


10. Deception Pass State Park

Spanning Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands in Puget Sound, the Deception Pass Bridge is an iconic landmark of the region and civic achievement dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps. On both sides of this scenic bridge, Deception Pass State Park easily ranks high as one of the best state parks in Washington (and most visited). Activities like tidepooling, hiking and boating are some of the most popular activities at the park, and a large campground facilitates multiple days of adventure. For those interested in passing under the bridge with a boat, knowing the tides will be the key to success.


See also: Top 10 things to do in Illinois



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