Experience the snow year-round in Niagara USA at Snow Park Niagara Falls. An outdoor winter park where fresh snow is made daily provides great fun with a snow tubing hill, riding terrain, and an NHL-sized synthetic ice skating rink.

Groups heading to Upstate New York and interested in exploring the historic area around the Niagara Falls will want to reserve a little chunk of their jam-packed agenda to visit the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center located just north of the Rainbow Bridge. The Center showcases the natural and local history of the legendary Falls and the stunning Niagara Gorge. Visitors may examine the fascinating geology of the area, learn the history of the Great Gorge Route trolley line, immerse themselves in the excitement of engaging interactive displays and enjoy a 180° multi-screen theater presentation detailing how the mighty Niagara River carved the massive gorge and magnificent falls over the course of more than 12,000 years – a process that continues today! The Discovery Center is also home to the Niagara Gorge Trailhead Center, the gateway to some of the best and most breathtaking hiking and biking trails in the region; test your climbing skills on the Rock wall or hit the trail on one of a variety of options for a truly customized experience! The Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike begins at the Trailhead Building and takes about an hour, while the two-hour Upper Great Gorge Hike begins at the Trailhead Building and follows the Great Gorge Railway Trail; both are easy hikes with no age requirements. The Devil’s Hole Rapids and Giant Rock hike starts at Devil’s Hole State Park and is a moderate level 2.5-hour trek. The more challenging Whirlpool Rapids Adventure starts off at Whirlpool State Park and is a difficult, three-hour hike; expect to do a little boulder hopping! Both require participants to be at least 8 years of age.

Credit Whirlpool Jet

Waterdogs on Upstate excursion will not want to miss this sometimes terrifying, always exhilarating, wet and wild Whirlpool Jet Boat attraction on the churning Niagara River! Bring a full extra change of clothes, gather every ounce of courage (ladies, if you’re “making up” for the adventure, do be sure to wear extra-waterproof mascara!) -and prepare for the ride of a lifetime! The American jet boating check-in and River Shop are located just ten minutes from the Falls on the lower level of the Water Street Landing restaurant in the quaint village of Lewiston, New York. Friendly and courteous crew members welcome you on-site 45 minutes prior to departure time in order that you and your fellow river rats can fill out a participation agreement and attend the mandatory pre-trip safety orientation. Post-orientation, your faithful and conscientious trip leader will escort you down to the dockside changing rooms where you will don the appropriate gear – all provided – for your Jet Boat extravaganza. Just say “CHEESE”-group photos are snapped just before embarking on one of the most memorable and refreshing experiences of your visit to Niagara Falls! Once you’re sure you’ve survived a proper soaking and all the rip-roaring adrenaline rush of playing  in the mighty Devil’s Hole class 5 white water rapids and getting way too close to the life-threatening insanity of a voracious Class 6 whirlpool -all in the comfort and safety of your trusty vessel -  you’ll return dockside, change into dry duds and head back upstairs to the River Shop to check out and purchase awesome photos and an exciting HD video of your group’s jet boat adventure. No guts, no glory – and no more secrets revealed, other than you’re GONNA get really, really wet on your Whirlpool Jet Boat Tour!

The original, natural cave was discovered behind Bridal Veil Falls in 1834, and promptly dubbed Aeolus’ Cave, after the Greek god of winds. Guided tours officially began in 1841, and continued until a devastating rock fall in 1920 rendered passage unsafe for visitors; the world-renowned Cave tour reopened in 1924, routing daring guests to the front of the Bridal Veil instead of behind it. Today, intrepid itinerants on Upstate getaway exploring the myriad attractions in beautiful Niagara Falls State Park will not want to miss this thrilling walk on Niagara Falls’ other wild side! This ever-popular and invariably spectacular Cave of the Winds Tour ushers visitors into a blustery “mist zone”, where “soaking up the experience” takes on a whole new meaning! The incredible journey begins with an elevator ride deep into the Niagara Gorge; geared-up in a souvenir rain poncho and special footwear, guests carefully tread wooden walkways along the Niagara River to the precariously-perched Hurricane Deck, just a few exhilarating feet from the mad torrents of the magnificent Falls. Here, the Bridal Veil Falls generate amazing, tropical storm-like conditions, replete with buffeting winds of up to 68 mph that hammer you silly with heavy spray-laden blows as you view the extraordinary show, nearly dizzy with the deafening motion of the crazy, churning waters beneath the curtain. Nowhere on Earth gets you closer to the awesome fury of the legendary Falls. The tour may have changed way back in 1920, but the “modern experience” promises a breathtaking adventure like no other!

Through the mid-19th century, sturdy rowboats ferried intrepid passengers across the grand Niagara River below the legendary Falls . By 1846, however, entrepreneurs decided a bigger vessel could profit by hauling people, luggage, mail and cargo across the misty expanse of swirling waters – and the first Maid of the Mist steamboat, large enough to carry horses and a stagecoach, was christened. In 1848, construction of a suspension bridge slowed business to a standstill, and “Maid of the Mist” was successfully re-branded as a sightseeing adventure. Groups on Northeastern holiday will not want to miss a visit to the fabulous landmark Falls and popular Maid of the Mist Tours get you as “up close and personal” as you would ever hope to be! Throw on your blue keepsake poncho, tuck your phone, keys and camera inside something waterproof, slip on your “water shoes” or flip flops and prepare for the most wet-and-wonderful ride of your life as you board the 74’ Maid of the Mist VI or 80’ Maid of the Mist VII, swing away from the dock and Rainbow Bridge and head out across the churning river toward the Falls. You won’t believe your eyes – OR ears – as you draw nearer the thundering curtains of water. Thrill to the powerful roar of the Falls and wild sensation of the boat working and arcing against the river, moving through the chilly, magical rainbow mist and soaking spray to bring you a memorable “fish eye” view-and exhilarating photo ops – of the most famous natural wonders in the world!

Wonder World Park is located near San Antonio, Texas. It is a one-of-kind Theme Park which is known as the 1st show cave in Texas. Visitors can take a tour of the Balcones Fault Line Cave. The location also contains other family-friendly attractions and entertainment. Your group will have the chance to take a guided tour of the Balcones Fault Line Cave. The tour focuses on the Great Texas Earthquake and the dramatic physical changes that happened millions of years ago. Your group may eat a lunch provided by the park. The lunch includes a deli sandwich, chips, brownie, and a large soft drink. There are other fun attractions that will enhance your experience. Featured attractions include the following: Mystery Mountain and Wildlife Park, Tejas Observation Tower, and the Anti-Gravity House. Mystery Mountain and Wildlife Park is interesting for visitors of all ages. The group will climb aboard the train and travel to the Wildlife Petting Park. You will splash through the cascading waterfall. There will be friendly deer and other critters waiting when you arrive for you to feed and pet. The Anti-Gravity House is an entertaining attraction. Things that go up do not always come back down and water even runs uphill. Visit this fun and fascinating Theme Park and see this amazing cave!

Exploring America > U.S. Cities > San Antonio Tours

Credit: San Antonio CVB

In a park of world class roller coasters, international cuisine, and thrilling waterpark rides, you can’t go wrong. Head to Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio to sample what the best of the Lone Star State has to offer with family friendly entertainment.

Let’s start with the roller coasters and focus on the record breakers, shall we? Superman the ride features the world’s tallest vertical loop while Batman is the world’s first 4D free-fly coaster. If you’re brave enough to venture near these superhero worthy coasters, you deserve a cape of your own. Other crowd favorites include Der Twister which takes you on 360 degree flips at 4 Gs, the Poltergeist which rockets out of the gate going 0-60 in 3.5 seconds, the inverted coaster Goliath, and the Iron Rattler, a classic wooden style coaster that propels you up to 70 miles per hour on the turns.

Take a break and go a bit slower on these classic rides. Try the themed carousel Amerigoround or Scooby Doo Ghostblaster where you can annihilate the ghosts with your own shooter. If you like waterparks, try the world’s tallest water slide, Bahama Blaster, or take a swim in the wave pool shaped like the state of Texas, Lone Star Lagoon, before heading on the White Water Canyon lazy river.

While you’re at Six Flags, you are bound to work up an appetite with all of your roller coaster screaming. When you’re hungry, stop by Bubba’s River Cafe for some down-home American cooking or try some overseas inspired cuisine at Panda Express or Primo’s Pizzeria. Snacks and desserts are covered by Cold Stone Limited’s deliciously crafted ice cream and Mockingbird Funnel Cakes. Grab yourself some souvenirs, candy, and caricatures at one of the park’s many kiosks and gift shops before you leave.

Exploring America > U.S. Cities > San Antonio Tours

Credit: SeaWorld

Like its Florida sister park, the San Antonio SeaWorld is an adventure into the deep blue sea with thrilling amusement park rides and up close interactions with some of the most magnificent marine creatures.

This 250 acre park includes several Animal Encounters, some of the most popular include Dolphin Cove, Penguin Encounter, Pacific Point Preserve, and Alligator Alley. Dolphin Cove lets you get up-close and personal with beautiful dolphins as you watch their handlers feed them daily and perform shows. Penguin Encounter is a time honored favorite where you can meet over 100 penguins and see their wild personalities while Pacific Point Preserve is a new destination featuring a family of sea lions. Make sure to visit the massive 450,000 gallon tank holding deadly sharks at the Sharks/Coral Reef.

Also a theme park, SeaWorld’s rides are a fabulous thrilling complement to the laid-back marine animal atmosphere of the animal encounters. Ride The Great White as this exciting coaster rockets you up to 50 miles per hour and curves around at nearly 4.6 Gs! As a nice change of pace, and something for the kids, Shamu Express is a kid-friendly coaster in trains designed to look like your favorite Killer Whale. Other rides include Rio Loco, a float through river rapids, the Steel Eel, and Journey to Atlantis, both of which are thrilling coasters.

When you get hungry, Dine with Shamu in a unique experience or just stop by Shamu’s Smokehouse, Rio Grille, Rosita’s Cafe, or the new Harbor Market where you can choose from an array of counter service options with international cuisine.

Exploring America > U.S. Cities > San Antonio Tours

Credit: Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Located just outside of San Antonio in the Texas town of New Braunfels, Schlitterbahn Waterpark is the best at what they do, and that’s creating the most fun, inclusive, water-bound experiences for you and your group.

Thrill rides abound at Schlitterbahn. If you’re up for it, try out the Der Bahn Speed Slides, Double Loop Body Slides, or the Hillside Tube Chute. Let’s not forget about the kid’s though. Youngster will go crazy for the many activity pools throughout the park featuring bucket dumps, giant sea monsters, kid-sized water slides, and more. The Wolfpack Raft Slide allows you to take friends along for the ride down its twists. The Falls, the world’s longest water ride, is a 3,600 foot long river through waterfalls, waves, and splashes led by the AquaVeyer, the first conveyer belt to carry riders out of water to the beginning of The Falls.

If you prefer a little slow time, check out one of the many heated pools like Bamboozle Bay or Boogie Bay. For groups wanting some down time or a place to meet up, look into getting one of the premier cabanas. Each comes with unique amenities, lockers, and some even have BBQ grills so that you can make your own lunch. Schlitterbahn resorts are also located near the park for those desiring multiple day stays.

The San Antonio Zoo is located in San Antonio, Texas. Visitors will find attractions, a variety of animals and exhibits. The location has an aquarium where the group can take in the creatures that live in the water. There are many classifications of animals for visitors to view at the San Antonio Zoo. Featured categories include: Amphibians, Birds, Mammals, and Reptiles. Featured birds include: the American common goldeneye, the American white pelican, the Australian shelduck, the Batelur eagle, the Bahama pintail duck, the Bananaquit, Barletts dove, and the Blackbilled whistling duck. Mammals include: the Addra gazelle, the African crested porcupine, the African lion, the Asian elephant, the Bat-eared fox, the Black-footed cat, and the Black howler monkey. There are other attractions for your group to explore throughout the zoo. Featured attractions include the following: Africa Live, African Plains, Amazonia, Cranes of the World, Gibbon Forest, and the Nature Spot. The Africa Live exhibit gives visitors the opportunity to experience the  world of Africa. Features include: plants, animals, and people. You will observe animals through one of the underwater viewing windows. Specific animals include: Hippos, crocodiles, and African cichlids. Come visit this one-of-a-kind attraction!

Exploring America > U.S. Cities > San Antonio Tours